No Money Lost

No money lost yet at the casino. That's because I haven't gone there yet. (g) Too busy getting organized Friday and my friend, Jeanne, is volunteering at the animal wild life place today.

We spent a long time getting to the cottage - 7 1/2 hours. Once we arrived, we had all sorts of mundane things to take care of, like unpacking clothes, putting away supplies to use for the rest of the trips, turning on the hot water heater, the gas heater, all sorts of fun stuff.

Then we noticed the cable wasn't working, so I called and waited. We discovered it wasn't that they hadn't turned it on right, it was an area problem. That didn't stop Charter from calling with an automated message saying they would come the next day. Automation is not always a good thing.

Anyway, we have hot water, but have some sort of problem from when Culligan connected the tanks, so we're still getting the minerals, which turn it a slight brownish color. Hopefully, that will be attended to on Monday. In the meantime, we have bottled water for drinking and pop.

I didn't mention the piers aren't in yet. They're sitting in front of the cottage. This is Saturday and the guy was supposed to have put them in the water on Friday. Supposedly he'll arrive Sunday to do the job. That doesn't surprise us, since that sort of thing happens a lot around this neck of the woods.

The good news is I'm up to page 111 out of 300 pages in my edits for Killer Career. I hope to finish them in the next few days and concentrate on getting reviews, among other related matters with getting my romantic suspense published.

What about you? Do you go on vacation? If so, do you ever write while you're on vacation?

On the Road Again

On the Road Again - Willie Nelson is singing in my mind as we take to the highways and byways, making our way to the NorthWoods for the first time this year.

I'm anxious to visit my good friend, Jeanne, again, and also to feed my slot playing weakness at Lake of the Torches. Since we're both short of cash, this vacation we've pledged to only bring with a certain amount of money yet to be determined each trip and not bring our checkbooks and credit cards along. When the money's gone, we're gone.

One good thing - I cashed in my loose change jar at home and my jar at work and now have $187.00 and $64.00 respectively, to play with at the casino. I'll probably match that with fresh money for other trips, but not sure if I can afford more. Unless, that is, I win. (G)

What about you? Are you a gambler? Do you like to play slots? I love them. The DH hates them.
Please share.

Getting Ready for Vacation

Vacation is fun, but getting ready is not fun. It's so hard to decide what to bring with. I just know I'll forget something and wish I'd thought of bringing it along.

One year my husband forgot his travelers' checks, another year, one of his pairs of glasses.
I forgot the change purse once for the tollway. That was a while ago. Now we use one of those transponders,or whatever they call it, to sail through. I forgot jeans another year.

What about you? Do you hate packing,too? Have you ever forgotten to bring something with on vacation? Please share.

Come on Over

Hi Gang,
Another detour. I'm asking you to come on over to http://acmeauthorslink.blogspot.com because today I'm hosting mystery writer, Chester D. Campbell's on his virtual book tour. He's got a fun post over there for you to read.

As always, comments here, there, or both are welcome. You may even win a prize over there.

Who Likes Chocolate?

I saw a flyer in the paper about the 10th Annual Long Grove Chocolate Fest taking place May 1-3. I'll be in Wisconsin then, feeding my other obsession, which is playing slots at Lake of the Torches Casino.

I'll be missing the Chocolate Fest, which is a shame since I do love chocolate. For a while I'd get headaches after eating it, but thank goodness that hasn't happened lately. I discovered some years ago I was hypoglycemic, which appeared to have happened because I'd gone on this great diet where I ate deserts but skimped on regular meals.

To recuperate, for an entire nine months I had to go without sugar, which turned out to be in many more forms than you'd ever guess. Gradually I was able to again indulge in sweets, but with caution. If I eat sugar in the morning, I'm usually tired the rest of the day. My body just can't handle sugar after fasting all night. For a while I missed my usual breakfast of chocolate long john and coffee with sugar, but I've adjusted well over the years.

The important thing is I can still eat chocolate and I love it.

What about you? Do you like chocolate?

Rascal Celebrates At Bentley's 1st Anniversary Party

Saturday the DH and I took Rascal to the 1st Anniversary Party at Rascal's favorite hangout, Bentley's Corner Barkery, where Lisa and Giovanni, the Owners, had special cake for dogs and also human cake at the back of the store.

It was a crazy day weatherwise, so we drove and parked a few blocks away to avoid getting caught in the intermittent downpours. Anyway, the party was well attended and probably would have been even more attended if the weather had been better. I took a video of the event, so you can see how the party went. Also, we got a call that Rascal won a raffle prize, so we came back on Sunday to claim Rascal's basket of goodies. That's on the movie also, but here's a pic to the left with Mia showing Rascal her basket.

Here's the Youtube Link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NgoDs8R3mVs

Have you ever been to a dog party before? Do you go to stores that allow pets inside? Do you prefer going to family businesses rather than large company owned places? Please share.

Meet Sherrill Bodine, Contemporary Romance Author

SHERRILL BODINE















NOW UP ON THE PLAYER IN THE LEFT COLUMN AND AT http://blogtalkradio.com/booksandblogs - Interview that was aired today.

Sherrill is the author of TALK OF THE TOWN
Available at Amazon.com
and Barnes&Noble.com

Here's What It's About -

GOSSIP QUEEN DETHRONED!

Darlings, what a to-do at the Daily Mail today! After fifteen years as Chicago's gossip guru, Rebecca Covington has been demoted from divulger of secrets for the city's elite to headlining recipes in the Home and Food section. Apparently, a touchy senator is threatening legal action for Rebecca's latest extramarital scoop. But Windy City rumor has it that new CEO and dreamy Pierce Brosnan look-alike David Sumner downgraded Rebecca in favor of fresher, younger blood on the social beat.

Industry insiders expect Rebecca to fight her denouement, and inquiring minds have already seen the feisty maven trading quips and searing glances wtih her arresting new boss. Rebecca swears she'll reclaim her shining star status, but can the dishy diva even cook? And how can she ignore David's arousing effect on her sensibilities?

Sherrill Bodine
http://www.sherrillbodine.com/

We welcome comments here before or after the show.

Facebook's New Rules

Power to the People!

I just read in the Daily Herald that Facebook's new rules specify that users do own their own information when posting to Facebook.

Some months back a great storm brewed with Facebook's attempt to hold rights to certain personal content posted by members. Objections were overwhelming. I, among others, rushed over to our Facebook accounts and removed photos and articles we didn't wish to be claimed by Facebook.

Anyway, a vote was taken, the members spoke their minds, and we won!

Goes to show, if you don't like something, don't gripe where it doesn't count. Speak up to those that matter and you could make a difference.

What about you, do you use Facebook? Why? If you don't, why not? What do you think about the new rules and/or speaking up? Please share.

Are You Organized?

Every time I try to get organized, it seems I slip further back into chaos. Thursday night I thought I'd get my business accounts in order online, but my password wouldn't work. I had to get another one emailed to me. Then I decided to take money from my business acount and put it into my personal account to pay some writing bills I'd put on my Amazon Visa card. I use the Amazon card to rack up points at Amazon, of course. Soon I'll get a business card that can rack up points also, but I don't have it yet.

Anyway, I got that all figured out. I made out a check to go into my personal account which I planned on depositing in the morning. Then I remembered I really should put more personal checks in my purse. I thought I'd ordered some not long ago. Well, I discovered after rummaging around that I don't have extra personal checks. I swear I ordered them, but they're nowhere to be seen. That means I only have four left. So then I wondered if there's a way to get checks fast so I have them before vacation May 1. Turns out there is a next day service for around $21.00, but it's worth it when you're desperate.

What about you? Are you organized, or do these things happen to you?

Administrative Assistant's Day and Green Thumbs

Wednesday was not only Earth Day, but also Administrative Assistants' Day. I don't know why both were designated for the same day. Somehow it doesn't seem right. After all, we have 365 days in the year, more than enough to go around.

Anyway, I whipped out my Iphone and took a photo of the flowers I got from the bosses at the firm on Wednesday. Actually, in the foreground are the flowers from this year, and I'm proud to say, in the background's a plant I got for Secretary's Day, as it was called then, at least 10-12 years ago. I don't have a green thumb, but somehow this plant has survived despite being owned by me.

What about you? Do you have a green thumb? Do you have a job that's celebrated each year? Or, would you rather not celebrate your job? Please share.

Are You Cutting Back?

Lots of people aren't spending as much as they used to. I guess that's part of the reason the economy isn't bouncing back. Another part is that people don't seem to have money to spend. Or, is it that they realize they were overspending before, and now after hearing all the warnings, they're afraid to shop?

I know I'm not spending as much as before. One reason is the DH is semi-retired, so not as much money is coming in. Another reason is much of what money I have left after paying bills goes toward my writing related expenses.

What about you? Are you spending as much as before? Are you Cutting Back? When you do shop, what kind of items do you buy? Please share.

Balanced or Unbalanced

As I walked home from the train Monday after work, I saw a woman on roller blades skating along, holding a dog with each hand. She certainly had balance, one thing I really lack.

I've never been good at roller skating,ice skating or other balance sports. I can ride a bike, but have trouble turning corners sometimes.

In other aspects, I'm not exactly a balanced person either. When I get interested in something, I go into it with all my might. I remember when I started going to Bingo, I collected all the little doo-dads to put on the table next to my cards to bring my luck - little brass dogs, even a cupie (Is that how to spell it?) doll with hair sticking up. I bought a great bag with holes on the sides to hold my dabbers of varying colors. In those days we also used magnetic chips, so I had little boxes of those to go in my bag, along with a magnetic wand to scoop them up.

That's one example of how I'm unbalanced. Another is blogging. I'm so addicted to it I feel compelled to blog daily no matter what. I also feel guilty if I don't visit the friends on my blogroll.

I'm also unbalanced when it comes to writing. I've spent the entire night going through the edits to get my new novel, Killer Career, in order. I'm almost through, but not quite. I still can't give it up. I rarely watch TV anymore, since I'd rather write.

What about you? Are you balanced or unbalanced? Confess, please.

Make Mine Mystery

Yesterday, I interviewed romantic suspense author, Margot Justes, on Blog Talk Radio Books and Blogs. If you missed the interview, you can find it on the player in the left column here.

Today, at http://makeminemystery.blogspot.com I'm featuring mystery writer, Richard Roach and his new book, Scattered Leaves. I'd appreciate your hopping over to read all about him and his book.

As always, Comments here, there or both are welcome.

Hear Margot Justes Today on Blog Talk Radio

MARGOT'S INTERVIEW IS NOW UP ON THE PLAYER
IN THE LEFT COLUMN HERE -

Margot Justes, romantic suspense author, was today's guest at http://blogtalkradio.com/booksandblogs . Show time
4-4:15pm Central Daylight Savings Time (Illinois) time.
Call in Number is 347-308-8605.


Meet Margot:

Born in Poland, Margot Justes has lived in some of the world’s most wonderful places, including Israel, France and South Africa. Currently living in the Midwestern United States, she has taken her love of art and travel and cultivated it into unique settings and stories for her writing. A Hotel in Paris is her first novel.

A Member of Romance Writers of America and Sisters in Crime, she is the current President of the Chicago Chapter of Sisters in Crime.

In her spare time she enjoys travel, museums, summer art fairs, reading, gardening, music, and the occasional shopping spree. She is now working on her second novel,
A Hotel in Bath.

You can visit Margot’s website at http://www.mjustes.com/

As always, comments are welcome.

Do You Watch TV?

Just wondered how many of you have time to watch TV.For one thing, I don't like sports. For another, I can't seem to get into the sitcoms out there lately. Also, there don't seem to be as many of them as before.

American Idol is fun to watch, though I don't get to see it very often. Most of the time, I'd rather watch and listen to GAC, Great American Country, which mostly features country videos. I also watch the news, Chicago Tonight and Jay Leno. What I mainly prefer are movies, either on the Hallmark or Lifetime Channel, or ones I choose from On Demand. I also rent movies from the library and watch them.

All in all, TV doesn't seem as important to me any more, probably because my focus has shifted to writing and networking on the Internet.

What about you? Do you like TV as much as you used to? When you do watch TV, what do you like to watch? Please share.

Scary Signs of the Times

The DH and I were at the library Thursday night to catch a great program which I'll feature here later. Anyway, on the way out, I happened to notice these scary signs
of the times. I'm glad the library is helping people with job searches, but sad that it's necessary.






Already two people were laid off at the law firm I work at, while another is leaving voluntarily. I've already mentioned how another secretary's salary has been cut, while I'm working five days a week there now and being paid for four. I just heard the owners of some popular area malls are declaring bankruptcy. Where has our prosperity gone? Is the U.S. still the land of opportunity?

What's your take? Please share any good or bad signs of the times you've noticed or experienced.

The Mighty 100 - Appreciation Day

I just want to thank every one of the Mighty 100 who follow my Double M blog. I appreciate your checking out what I have to say each day. By now, you probably know pretty much about me - I have a DH I dearly love, a mischievous dog named Rascal, a mystery, named Two Wrongs, and romance, called Girl of My Dreams, published, with more books in the works. I also have a day job, but wish I didn't need one. I'd rather spend more time online with all my buddies.

Anyway, enough about me. Today, is appreciation day for my online friends, so take a bow.
If you're one of the Double M blog's followers, please leave a comment saying a little bit about yourself, and be sure to include your blogspot or website link for everyone to find you. And if you're not a follower, but just stopping by, I appreciate your interest also and invite you to introduce yourself if you so wish.

Thanks everyone!

Dog In the Window

Yesterday, I did a blog about Cat in the Window at http://bloodredpencil.blogspot.com/ . Today is a follow up on that blog.

Many readers had a burning question. They wanted to know what happened to my neighbor's dog.

You'll all be glad to know the dog is back and barking as usual. Since I don't converse with that neighbor as often as I do others, I may never know why the dog was absent for a while.

Now that that mystery is at least partially solved, I invite you to hop over to my Are You Serious blog today at http://acmeauthorslink.blogspot.com/

As always, comments here, there or both are welcomed.

Cats and Dogs

Why did I, a dog lover, write a post called Cat in the Window at http://bloodredpencil.blogspot.com/ ?


I invite you to hop over there and find out.


As always, comments are welcome here, there, or both places.

How Many Books Do you Have In You?

How many books do you have in you?

A single (standalone) book or a spinoff or a series
My mystery, Two Wrongs, is a standalone, as is my romantic comedy, Girl of My Dreams. My new release this summer, Killer Career, will also be a standalone. So far, my work in progress, Forever Young, is intended to be at least two books, maybe more. One with the central story, heroine vs. villains, at least one or two spinoffs expanding on the core plot.

What about you? How many books are you working on or have you done? Are any of them spinoffs or series material? Please share.

Happy Easter!

HAPPY EASTER EVERYBODY!

Forecast here in Illinois is a beautiful Spring day, a rare treat around here for Easter.

I saw only one lady with a hat on at Church, but it was deep blue and didn't look at all like an Easter bonnet. Any Easter bonnets around you today?

We went to a brunch today at the Concorde. A pic is on the right.

Now I'm home and relaxing, but a little

bit too full. What's everyone else doing?

Have a HAPPY EASTER, however way you spend it!!

Juniors Cave Online Magazine

I first learned of Juniors Cave Online Magazine when its owner, Isaac Davis Jr., joined my book network at Book Place. I asked if he needed any book articles. That's how I became the magazine's Books and Literature Editor.

My spot there is called Big on Books, and wouldn't you know it, it's about books. Anyway, I've sent fresh content to the magazine in the form of new pics, plus my Blog Talk Radio player, which just happens to contain the last 4 episodes of my Books and Blogs Sunday shows, including interviews of JA Konrath/Jack Kilborn, Robert W. Walker, L. Diane Wolfe, and Barry Eva. Also included is a feed to this blog, which Isaac ingeniously set up in a rotating pattern, so readers can pick which blogs to catch.

I invite you to check it out when you get a chance at http://www.juniorscave.com/morganmandel.html
Please comment here and let me know how you like it.

Thanks,
Morgan

Cell, Land Line or Both?

When I was getting ready for bed Thursday night, I checked the power on my cell phone, as I often do. I happened to notice I missed a call from my friend. I had spoken to her fifteen minutes before, but she got another call and was going to call back. In the meantime, she called my landline. I had wondered at the time why she did that, but didn't ask.

Apparently the call to my cell didn't go through, or maybe I just didn't hear it with the TV on.
It's a good thing I have both kinds of phones.

What about you? Do you use a cell, land line or both? Which do you like better, or does it depend? Please share.

Carry Out or Go Out?

The DH and I prefer carryouts for dinner. We rarely go out to eat. We call, place our order, pick it up and dig in. Carryouts are so much easier than getting ourselves all fixed up, driving to a restaurant, waiting to get seated, waiting for the food, waiting for the check, and figuring out how much to tip.

We do have certain friends that we do like to go out to eat with, but not that often.

What about you? Do you prefer carryouts or going out to dinner?

A Good Night's Sleep

Since I so often fall asleep on the couch lately while watching TV, then stumble upstairs in the dead of night, sometimes not falling asleep again for a while, this got me thinking.

What's a good night's sleep? If I get close to six hours, I consider myself lucky. If I sleep more, most of the time I feel dopey all day.

What about you? How much sleep do you need? What do you consider a good night's sleep? Please share.

My Favorite Person

I like reading books in the third person, though if a book is well-written, I'll forget my preference and read one in the first person. Why? The only thing I can figure out is although I like to identify with the characters, first person seems a bit too intrusive.

As far as articles and non-fiction go, first or second person are fine with me.

What about you? What's your favorite person? Please share.

ACMs and Twitter

Sunday night I watched the ACMs (Academy of Country Music Awards) Show while on Twitter. What fun, tweeting back and forth about the performers. It was like we were all at a party together, dissing or cheering for favorites, commenting on clothes, voices, you name it.

Twitter makes it easy to do this. If you enjoy something popular on TV, you'll probably find the topic in the right hand column there. You click on it and you'll discover everyone that's doing tweets on it.

For a few minutes, Twitter went Over Capacity. Must have been the ACMs that did it!

Anyway, I enjoyed listening and watching. You can catch my tweets in the Twitter box to the left. Just use its scroller.

And if you're in the mood for something totally different, check out my blog today about Killer Career at http://makeminemystery.blogspot.com

Are any of you country music fans? Did you catch the show? If not, what kind of music do you enjoy? Please share.

Today's Guest - JA Konrath a/k/a Jack Kilborn at Blog Talk Radio Books and Blogs

JA Konrath/Jack Kilborn with Morgan Mandel at a 2008 mystery authors booksigning, Barnes & Noble, Arlington Heights, IL.

I'm excited to offer my new guest, JA Konrath, also known as Jack Kilborn, or just plain Joe, at Blog Talk Radio Books and Blogs today, Sunday, April 5. Please tune in from 4-4:30pm Illinois time (Central Daylight Savings Time) at http://blogtalkradio.com/booksandblogs to listen to the show live. If somehow you can't make it at that time, by all means stop by that site where you'll find the player. You'll also find the player here in the left column not far down.



Not only is Joe the author of the Jack Daniels mystery series, he's also got a scary new book of horror out called Afraid.

Joe is also responsible for a great blog called A Newbies Guide to Publishing, a great reference tool.

Let us know if you plan to listen or, if you comment afterwards, tell us what you thought of the interview. Have any of you read one of Joe's books? Do you want to? Please share

Frustrated, Aggravated, Determined

Don't be afraid to tune in to http://blogtalkradio.com/booksandblogs this Sunday, 4pm Central Daylight Savings Time (Illinois time) for my special guest -mystery and horror author, JA Konrath a/k/a Jack Kilborn. Learn about his new release, Afraid. You can hear it live at that time from the above website or about 15 minutes later on the player there or in the left column here.


I'm frustrated and aggravated because yesterday I lost one of my most valuable commodities - Time. The law firm I work for deals in workers' compensation law, which pertains to injuries on the job. Not as many people are working. Those that are, don't want to rock the boat when they're hurt. It all boils down to the firm not getting much business.

So, on Friday the boss called us each in separately and laid out new rules. What pertains to me is my 4 day work week is history. Starting immediately, I'm now working 5 days per week, but only getting paid for 4. This hits me especially hard, since I barely had enough time as it was to write, promote, blog, and spend time with the DH and Rascal.

I know the economy is bad. At this point, I can't afford to quit my job. I don't see any point in looking for another one either. On the plus side, I still get to keep my vacation time and sick days, which total 23 days. I don't want to lose that, since it's almost summer and that's when we visit our cottage in Wisconsin. Also, I still have health insurance, and definitely don't want to lose that.

At this point, I know I should be grateful I have a job at all, but I'd already put in my time by working 16 years full time at the firm before getting the privilege of a 4 day work week. The irony of it all was yesterday was my 37 year anniversary of starting work there.


So, right now I'm stuck. Losing a free day each week means I don't have that valuable time any more to play catch-up. I have less opportunity to visit my friend's blogs and leave comments, less time to get a few of my own posts ready ahead of time, less time to concentrate on Forever Young, my work in progress, less time to finish my edits on Killer Career.

When I was called in, I'd almost hoped to be fired, so I could go on unemployment and get my writing life in order. That didn't happen to me, but it did to another secretary who was actually a good worker and depended on her 2 days a week to make ends meet for herself, children and husband. Realistically, if I'd been laid off, I couldn't afford living on unemployment, but I would have loved to have that extra time. It's such a valuable commodity.

Anyway, the bright spot is I'm over 60. Who would think that would be a blessing, but it is. When I hit 62, I'm going on social security and taking a 2 day job close to home. Until then, I'll tough it out, unless a miracle happens. I'm determined to get my books completed and published, because they're important to me. It will require more finnagling, but I'll manage somehow.

What about you? Has the economy affected you? If you're a writer with a full time job, do you have trouble getting writing and promotion done?

Olympics

The Olympic Evaluation Committee is in Chicago for six days casing out the city to determine if it's the best choice for the 2016 Olympics. Suddenly I see signage on buildings, buses, and streets everywhere saying We support the Olympics and other such messages.

I can't get into the spirit, though the signs are lovely, with their yellows and oranges. For one thing, I'm not a sports fan and usually don't watch the Olympics. For another, I'm still not convinced that somehow the taxpayers won't be stuck with a large portion of the bill, though Mayor Daley says otherwise. I don't live in Chicago, but I work there and grew up there. It seems the money could be better spent elsewhere.

Still, even if none of the expenses were borne by civilians, my chief concern is terrorists. It's happened before with Olympics and it could happen again. I've heard all the arguments about not giving in and getting on with life since 9/11, but I still don't like the idea of Chicago setting itself up as a target. Even with top security, I foresee problems.

Am I being too much of a scaredy cat? What about you? Would you like the Olympics in your City or town? Please share.

Cheese

Marvin Wilson practically dared me to do a blog on cheese, so I am. It won't be too long, since I'm asking you to hop over to my other post today. More on that later.

Okay, here's how you can apply cheese to characters in your books.

Sharp Cheese - A sharp-tongued, clever, sharp thinking person

Mild Cheese - A mild mannered person.

Spicy Cheese a/k/a Cheezy - Sexy, hot person.

Runny Cheese - A person all over the place, can't handle life.

CheeseHead - Wisconsin resident. (Don't get mad at this one. I happen to love Wisconsin. It's my second home where we have our summer cottage. Notice my sweatshirt in the left column of this blogspot.)

Can you think of other characters from cheese? Please share.

Also, if you never saw my post on initials, please check out my On Demand post at
http://bloodredpencil.blogspot.com/

Thanks,
Morgan

Worms

Today is supposed to be worm day, so I thought it appropriate to blog about them. There are good and bad worms. After a rain, sometimes you'll see them crawling on the sidewalks. Those are good worms. The birds are happy to eat them. Fishermen love to collect them for live bait.

There's also creepy worms like maggots, that are really gross to look at.

Anyway, unless you've been in seclusion lately, you probably know what this post is leading up to. I dare not say the name for fear it may go on the attack. A worm is supposed to slither across the Internet today, April 1, and attack computers. Because of the threat, I've scheduled this blogpost early, so I won't have to turn on the computer to make it appear. Whether or not I have enough courage to go online at all today, I'm not sure. You'll know if you see me.

It would be a great challenge for me to go cold turkey and ignore the Internet for one day, but I'm not sure if I can do it.

Since I wrote the above, I found out it doesn't matter if you're online today or not. It could attack you some other day. I may as well tough it out, so here I am again.

Okay, are there any brave souls out there who are reading this blog? If your virus protection is not updated, I suggest you do it right now. Comment first if you wish.

Spilt Milk

Don't cry over spilt milk. Everyone's heard that.

In fact, I have actually spilled milk. Depending on where it gets spilled, if you're not careful, it can leave a pretty sour smell, especially in weird corners of a car's carpet. Anyway, the best thing to do is clean it up and forget about it as soon as possible.

That applies to writing as well. I've received my share of manuscript rejections, as many authors have. That doesn't stop me. If the rejection contains constructive criticism, I follow the advise gladly and clean up my manuscript so it's ready to go out somewhere else.

What about you? Do rejections paralyze you, or do consider them challenges to progress as a writer? Please share.

Spoiled Milk

If you missed my interview of mystery writer, Rob Walker, on Blog Talk Radio yesterday, it's the first program in the player in the left column here.

Last week, as I swallowed a swig of milk at lunch, I realized it was sour. Since I was almost through eating anyway, I didn't request an exchange. I did go to the cashier, whom I know from eating at that cafeteria quite often, and I did get a refund. Still, the experience left me unsettled and wondering if I'd get sick.

To make an analogy, it's kind of like picking up a book written by a favorite author, starting to read it, then discovering it's not what you expected. In fact, it's so bad, you don't want to finish reading it. That kind of experience can make you swear off of an author for good.

Maybe you've learned more about writing since you began liking that author's work. Maybe that author is careless, riding the tide and pumping out books just for the bucks, not for the craft. There are lots of reasons for being disappointed in books.

What about you? Have you ever been disappointed with favorite authors? Or, maybe just a book that looked good, but turned out crummy? Please share.

Rob Walker is the Guest Today at Blog Talk Radio Books and Blogs

Today, I'm happy to host Robert W. Walker on my Blog Talk Radio Show. Rob's a great mystery writer, with many published books to his credit, and is also a great guy all around. He's also the Friday guy at my group blog, Acme Authors Link, at http://acmeauthorslink.blogspot.com





We'll be talking about his books, including his new one, with the great cover designed by someone very near to him. He also has some news about his wife, Miranda's, author career.

So, listen in today from 4-4:15pm Central Daylight Savings Time (Illinois) at
http://blogtalkradio.com/booksandblogs.


Rob's website is http://robwalkerbooks.com



Are any of you mystery readers? Have you tried one of Rob's books? If not, which mystery authors do you like? Please share with us. Or,if you get a chance to listen to the show, please also comment.

Does Your Dog Tell You to Go To Bed?

If I'm up too late typing on my computer, Rascal starts whining and nudging my elbow. She's telling me it's time to go to bed. She won't go to bed until I do. She follows me to the hallway, then sits there and watches me climb the stairs up to the bedroom. She's not allowed to go up there herself, but she has her own little space complete with comforters, in back of the easy chair in what we call our TV room. If

Right now she's pestering me to go upstairs. What about your dog? What does it tell you to do? Or maybe you have a cat or other pet. Please share.

Recycling Blogposts

In this age of going green and saving things, it makes sense to do the same with blogs. After all, we spend a lot of time thinking of what to say and how to say it. Then the post comes out. If you're a daily blogger, it only lasts twenty-four hours before it's replaced.

Those hours on that particular day may coincide with a major news event, a weather happening, like a snowstorm or even a beautiful Spring or Summer day. Maybe life intrusions keep regular readers away from their computers. Whatever the case, the result is the same - an overlooked blog.

The cure for such a condition is recycling. Consider posting your favorite blogposts on Facebook, Myspace, Ning, or maybe one of your group blogs, if you belong to one. First, be sure to update them. You wouldn't want to refer to a past event as if it were still coming up. If you think of better words or phrases, there's no law that says you can't include them this time.

When you're done editing and your post is up, you might be pleasantly surprised by the response it receives. You'll be glad it finally got the attention your hard work deserved.

Have any of you thought about or recycled blogposts? Will you try now? Please share.

Please Welcome My Guest, Children's Book Author, Donna Dumas

Donna Dumas was Born in Detroit, Michigan and raised in Ripley, Tennessee as well. She spent her early years excitingly writing short stories and poetry as she vividly remembers telling them to her smaller cousins and close friends. Donna is a Maintenance Administrator for AT&T and the vice-president of their non-profit organization, the AT&T Pioneers. Her dream is to open a day care while she continues to write children books. Donna credits the love and joy of her son and her nieces and nephews adding to her ambition of living out those dreams. She now resides in the suburban area of Macomb County Michigan with her family and her dog Onyx.



Donna's Book - Hard Head Fred:

Seven year old Fred will stop at nothing! Almost anything can happen, and will, when he refuses to listen to his Mom. Modest Mom is spinning in circles as she attempts to deal with his stubborn behavior. She warns him not to do things that he somehow ends up doing anyway.

Sound familiar? What does Fred do when Mom says don’t? Will Fred's hard, hard, head cause him to have little accidents or even lose his cat Ned, or will he finally have a change of heart and listen to Mom and stop having such a hard, hard, head?

“Here kitty, kitty,” said Fred.




Truly Unforgettable by Linda31
Reader Rating: Barnes and Noble
See Detailed Ratings, March 11, 2009: "I recently purchased this book for my three year old son whose name is Fred. He giggled every time I read his name!"

Website http://www.authordumas.com/

Buy Link at Amazon at: http://www.amazon.com/Hard-Head-Fred-Donna-Dumas/dp/0982256043/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1238035822&sr=8-1

Buy Link at Barnes and Noble at: http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Hard-Head-Fred/Donna-Dumas/e/9780982256046/?itm=1

Catch Donna's new blogspot http://authordumas.blogspot.com.

Please leave a comment for Donna about her delightful book.

Young and Old

Now that I'm up in years, 60 of them, actually, I wonder if maybe I should be reading books about people in my age group. If I do that, though, I'd be identifying with the characters and admitting to myself I'm not as young as I used to be. Is that a good or bad thing?

Sometimes I wonder. On the one hand it's fun to pretend I'm young again, yet on the other hand, it's also fun to read books featuring characters I can relate to.

What about you? Which do you prefer? If you're young, do you care if the main characters are older, or vice versa? Can you name some books you particularly enjoyed that are about older characters? Or about characters younger than you? Or, maybe you've written one?
Please share.

Critters

Critters are everywhere. Some I can easily spot. Others are not as noticeable.

A few years ago, on the way to the commuter station, I saw a possum walking by the side of a house. About a week ago, I was about to let Rascal out when I smelled the distinctive odor of a skunk wafting from the area of the patio. Fortunately, all was clear by morning.

Last Thursday, when I was walking Rascal, I stopped to talk with a neighbor who was walking her collie. That's when I learned she'd met up with a coyote not far from my house. It followed her and her dog a few blocks, but didn't get real close. Now, everytime I go out, even for a few minutes, I make sure the latch is down on the backyard gate. Though I believe Rascal would be a good match for it, I wouldn't want one to take the chance of one of those critters making its way into our yard.

Of course, we also get our fair share of squirrels, which are so common I don't pay as much attention to them. Then there are the birdies of various types and sizes. Lately the variety of bird songs in the morning are increasing, a sure sign of Spring.

I'm thinking it would be a good idea to incorporate a few of these critters into my books to flesh out area descriptions.

What about you? What critters are around your neck of the woods? Do you include any of them in your books, or maybe you remember reading a book with a critter or two in it? Please share.

Please Welcome My Guest, Author Kimberly Elliott

About the Book:

A wonderful read for all parents, teachers, counselors .... we need to open our eyes to child sexual assault and help put a stop to this silent epidemic. The sexual abuse of a child creates a devastating family crisis. Parents want to know what to do and say to help their child but they also want to know how to respond to and heal their own emotional turmoil. As a parent, you need to know it's okay and natural to act with disbelief and denial.

This is my story, a mother's story, about the abuse of my daughter and my struggles to over come. I thought I could trust my family members. I thought I knew and could trust the legal system. I was wrong. As a parent, I couldn't find help for ME...what to expect on this journey with my daughter and her recovery. I didn't know how much pain I would suffer as well. This is my story and my struggle toward recovery. Some how, some way, I hope it gives you hope for your journey as well.

About the Author:

As a National Sales Leader in the Pharmaceutical Industry with 18 years experience, author, entrepreneur, professional speaker & Nationally Certified R.A.D. (Rape/Aggression/Defense) trainer, Kimberly brings a unique depth of knowledge and sensitivity to her specialties of: Advocacy for Change in the Medical Industry and Personal Self-Defense and Anti-victimization Education.

She gives readers & audiences powerful insights into the Pharmaceutical Industry. She has been featured in the British Medical Journal and has been a guest on numerous National Radio Programs.

As a victim of crime herself, she is also dedicated to providing workplace, personal, and field staff safety training classes to senior executives, management, and employees of a vast array of private businesses and corporations, professional organizations and associations. As a R.A.D. trainer, she also trains teachers, parents and children in school districts nationwide in personal protection and awareness. This is done by teaching simple mental and physical techniques and strategies individuals can use to avoid victimization in their daily lives. Her safety programs have yielded positive, immediate and long lasting outcomes.

Her behavior based anti-victimization presentations will shape & change the attitudes of your employees. This in turn will help you change portions of your safety culture and liability! Her combination of warmth and sensitivity along with her expertise, substance and inspiration, invigorates and energizes people to take action in their personal lives.

Kimberly focuses on the needs of each client, customizing her message to each group she addresses. She speaks around the country to Corporations, Associations and Consumers about personal safety and the need for health care changes in the U.S.

Kimberly’s diverse clientele include: YMCA, Bryan-Cave Law, Anheuser-Busch, New Frontier Bank, Bonneville Radio Group, Catholic Health Association, SCI Engineering, Jefferson Smurfit, Ronnoco Coffee, Coldwell Banker Realtors, Maritz, MO Nurses Association, US Bank, Prudential and a host of other household names, educational institutions, churches and non-profit groups.

Kimberly lives happily in Missouri with her amazing husband, two spirited children and a “zoo” of animals including a Newfoundland , three cats and a rabbit. She enjoys traveling, swimming and reading.

Here's what she has to say today:
18 months ago, with the disclosure of the sexual abuse of my young daughter, I came as close to “living hell” as I’d ever care to embark.

We have been to the bottom, risen up and been pushed back down again as we’ve cycled our way through recovery. Yes, each step along this journey has made me stronger; it’s definitely given me thicker skin and a new view on life and people in general. None of it has been easy and I’ve lost many meaningful relationships along the way.

Has it been worth it; this fight, this journey?

Most definitely. My children are the ultimate gifts that God has entrusted into my care.

So as a parent, a secondary victim to child sexual assault (CSA), how do we survive, let go, move forward and begin to thrive again?

That has been my greatest challenge.

It seems as though the moment I have it “all figured out” and life begins to move in a positive direction, I step on a new land mine and I’m back at square one yet again.

I realize, desire or not, I have been called to take this journey and I have to trust the future isn’t limited by what I see right now. That there is so much more waiting out there for me.

I understand that the joy in life isn’t guaranteed. I realize there will be typical ups and downs and these events are what makes the journey exciting and worth experiencing. I definitely, from the first wail from my daughter’s determined lungs, knew child rearing wouldn’t be easy. Yet, never in my wildest dreams or nightmares, was I able to prepare for the deep grief that CSA brought into my family’s or my life. No one can coach us on how to deal with a pain that shatters a heart so deeply. Those who casually say “Aren’t you over that yet?” don’t understand.

This much I will tell you about grief from CSA: If there was ever a second, or a moment, when you suspected or knew you had been betrayed at the deepest level by someone you adored and a splintering pain began to shred your heart, turn your world grimly unbearable to a point where you would consciously choose denial and ignorance about the betrayal rather than feel this way…that is one-millionth of what it feels like at the moment of disclosure.

On May 1st, at my daughter’s disclosure, I felt a searing pain in my heart. It was physical – I swear it was. If you are called to enter this world of CSA, there is no turning back. We are not allowed to refuse that call. It is like nothing else, with the possible exception of the pounding waves of the ocean. To the untrained casual eye, each wave looks the same. It is not. No two are the same.

As I examine, the up and down, emotional, inner-turmoil I’ve been struggling with recently, I’m reminded of the tug-of-war game I play with our new puppy. She has a long, blue, rope doll she loves. She brings it to me with her tail wagging.

I pull.

She pulls.

I pull it out of her mouth. She grabs hold again and shakes and shakes and says grrrrrr. The harder I tug, the harder the puppy pulls. Finally, I just let go. Then she comes right back again, for more.

I guess what I’m trying to say here is I have never successfully treated or solved one problem in my life by obsessing or controlling. I’ve yet to accomplish anything by worrying. And manipulation has not wrought one successful outcome. The best possible outcomes seem to happen when I let go. That doesn’t always mean I get my way. But things work out and, ultimately, the lesson becomes clear.

As a parent dealing with the aftermath of child sexual assault, I forget there are so very many things that are outside of my realm of control. I want to continue to cling to the past and the way it used to be – because it’s comforting and comfortable. I want to believe in the legal system the way I believe it should be and should function.

Unfortunately, there are certain events that we may never be able to accept fully. What can be accepted, though, is that we are required to live with this pain, hurt and loss and find a way to move on. There are many days that I have to remind myself to stop asking “Why?” but rather ask “what” the lesson is.

I guess this is all a part of being a “work in progress”.

Through disclosure, life as I had known it disappeared. I don’t know why I’ve received some of the blessing I’ve been given; I don’t know why some of the sorrow has come my way. All I can do is trust that whatever comes my way, there’s a lesson at hand. I didn’t bargain for this but my spiritual journey has begun. I’ve surrendered to the experience and I do believe something as broken and scraggly as I am right now can be brought back to life again.

The first step to acceptance, healing and recovery is the hardest. Sometimes it’s the second step that gets you. Getting information, support, and encouragement is helpful. Necessary too. But life is meant to be lived.

What I can honestly say to you is: “It’s going to be difficult, harder than you can imagine. It’ll take time. But you can do it! You’ll come through.” No matter what path you’re on, others have walked it before you, and some will follow you there. Each step you take is uniquely yours, but you are never, never alone! That is the message that I truly hope I can leave with everyone who chooses to read “Shattered Reality”.

- Kimberly Cheryl ; Author, Shattered Reality

Amazon Link:http://www.amazon.com/Shattered-Reality-Kimberly-Cheryl/dp/1440404593/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1237684501&sr=1-1

Website:http://www.kimberlycheryl.com/

Please leave a comment to welcome Kimberly.

Pet Expo at Arlington Park Pics

The DH and I wore out our legs walking around at the Pet Expo at Arlington Park on Saturday. All kinds of critters there, but mostly dogs. Very heartbreaking to see so many dogs available at rescue organizations, lots of them purebreads. The economy is really hurting these poor dears. We would have loved to take some of them home, but Rascal is enough for us to handle. Anyway, enjoy the pics. Do you have a dog or cat or an exotic pet? Please share

Reminder: Tonight at 9pm Central Daylight Savings Time I'll be interviewing L. Diane Wolfe, Author of Overcoming Obstacles With Spunk. Tune in to Blog Talk Radio. For more info, go to http://blogtalkradio.com/booksandblogs.

1000 Followers at Twitter!

Hi Gang,
When I got home from walking Rascal into town Friday evening and turned on my computer, I had the pleasure of seeing my Twitter followers hit the 1,000 mark! Thanks to everyone who's been following me over there.

Twitter is an easy and effective way to get the word out about blogs and special events. Best of all, no commercials to wade through.

All you need to do is go to http://twitter.com/ and sign up, then please follow me. Just because I hit 1,000 doesn't mean there isn't room for more. Come on over and join the fun.

Here's my address, if you want to follow me: http://twitter.com/morganmandel

Have I convinced you? If not, why not? Do you already belong to Twitter? If so, please comment with your twitter address so we can all go over and follow you and vice versa.

Country Music Rocks!

One thing led to another when I blogged Put A Girl in It at Make Mine Mystery about including romance in mysteries.

From that, a lively discussion started on pumpupyourblog listserv about whether or not Reba sang in Put A Girl In It with Brooks & Dunn. So, as proof I dug up a link from Youtube where she did sing with them at an awards show. If you click Put A Girl In It above, and go to the second song, there she is!

Anyway, one thing led to another and we started sharing country music likes and dislikes. I've taken the discussion public here, so everyone can share.

Anyone who's read my blogs before knows I'm obsessed with country music. At home I wake up and go to sleep to US 99.5 FM, America's Country Station. On vacation, it's WJJQ from Tomahawk, Wisconsin. In fact the Tomahawk station is what really got me hooked on country. One summer the hit was Passionate Kisses and the DH and I would laugh everytime it came on and we sang loudly along. Way before that, I enjoyed Glen Campbell and some of the other country singers, but wasn't quite as much into the country scene.

GAC is a great TV station for background music when I write, despite the fact I sometimes have to leap up to watch a favorite video.

Brad Paisley, Carrie Underwood, Faith Hill, Tim McGraw (when he's not singing depressing songs), Toby Keith, Trace Adkins, and so many more are my favorites.

What about you? Do you like country? If so, what got you started? Do you have favorites? Please share.

Hop On Over Please

Hi Gang,
I've got a great guest over at my group blog today. Please hop on over and welcome mystery author and faithful blogger, F.M. (Marilyn) Meredith, at http://acmeauthorslink.blogspot.com

If you're so inclined, please comment that you're going over.

Thanks,
Morgan Mandel

Happy St. Patrick's Day

Chicago Tonight at WTTW Channel 11 on Monday night held a special about the boat crew dyeing the Chicago River Green. As bystanders cheered, the crew zoomed across the water, distributing 40 pounds of green vegetable dye in the process.

Parades, four leaf clovers, shamrocks, Irish jigs, singing Danny Boy - People have all sorts of ways to celebrate St. Patrick's Day. It seems everyone wants to be Irish even if they're not.

We've got some corned beef in the refrigerator. The DH, who's Polish and German, is wearing his green shirt and vest today. I've got on a part green blouse. I'm Irish on my Dad's side and Italian on my Mom's.

St. Patrick's Day and days like it are a great diversion from the everyday rut.

What about you? Are you Irish? Even if you're not, do you wear green on St. Patrick's Day? How do you celebrate? Or don't you? Please share

Behind

Seems like when I manage to get one thing done, other things suffer. I thought I had my income tax figured out in time, but then I discovered I needed to count up all the medical expenses because they might also be deductible.

And - being Sunday was the nicest day we've had in our neck of the USA in a long time, we took Rascal for a very long walk and a visit to Bentley's Corner Barkery, that's after two shorter walks earlier in the day.

So, here I am calling Sears for a copy of the eyeglasses receipt, then going to Osco Monday night to ask for a printout of prescriptions. Also, looking for a missing credit card statement.

I did manage to do the Blog Talk Radio Show Sunday. If you haven't heard it, you'll find it in the left column player. It came out okay, even though my cell phone cut out for a few minutes. Fortunately, Barry Eva, my guest, was a trooper and kept the ball rolling until I made it back on the air.

Anyay, I did manage to file away a few papers on my desk that were getting in the way. I also put up my own blog here for Sunday, and concocted one at Make Mine Mystery, since Dana's away on vacation.

So, I did get this blog finished very late at night and this morning on the way to work I'll figure out one for my regular turn at Make Mine Mystery.

I'm always behind. What about you? Are you ahead or behind most of the time? Please share.

Blog Talk Radio Show Today

Today, I'm featuring Barry Eva a/k/a Storyheart on my Blog Talk Radio Show, from 4pm-4:15pm Central Daylight Savings Time (Illinois time). For more information, you can check my show page at http://blogtalkradio.com/booksandblogs.

If you'd like to call in, the number is 347-308-8605. Use your cell phone, since it's a New York call.

Barry is the author of a Young Adult Romance called Across the Pond. We'll learn more about him and his book during the show.

What do you think of Blog Talk Radio? Do you like listening to broadcasts? Or do you prefer written blogs, or maybe both?

Would you like to be a guest on my show? If so, let me know below.

If you have your own show, let us know where to find you.

Waiting to Eat

First, a Commercial ----- Another Blog Talk Radio Show this Sunday, March 15, 4pm Central Daylight Savings Time - My Guest is Barry Eva, author of Across the Pond - Call in #347-308-8605 - For More Info, Check Out: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/booksandblogs

Friday night we went to a fish fry. It wasn't very well organized. The DH and I sat and waited for about half an hour to get served. He hates to wait to get fed. I'm a little more patient, but only for so long.

When we did get our helping, it was one piece of fish, a small dish of cole slaw and some hard fries. Two of the people at our table had to wait at least half an hour longer to get their food.

Ours came a bit earlier because I got impatient and asked one of the servers, who was a very young girl like most of them working there were, when we'd get fed.

It was supposed to be all you can eat, but the trick of that was people's patience wore so thin, I don't believe many of them asked for too much more. Someone did come around with a plate of seconds and I had one and the DH had two more pieces, but it took a long time for that to happen.

So, we've decided not to go back there next week. I have a feeling the event was the victim of its own success. I don't believe the people holding it expected such a response. I won't name the organization or place because I do feel sorry for them because they were so unprepared.

What about you? Have you ever been to a function that was poorly run? What about when you go to a restaurant, will you wait twenty minutes, thirty or even more to get fed? Please share.

My Personal Best

Well, Tuesday night I scored my personal best. How was that?

I fell asleep on the couch during the Jay Leno show. The next thing I knew, it was after 4am, the longest amount of time I've ever dozed off while watching TV.

The funny thing was the DH had to leave for work early on Wednesday and his alarm went off a minute after I woke up. Good timing, though I really didn't plan it that way.

Anyway, I stumbled to bed and kind of fell asleep, I think. Sometimes it's hard to tell, but since the time went by pretty fast, I must have slept, at least a little.

What about you? What's your personal best?

Please Welcome My Guest, Sheri Kaye Hoff

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Sheri Kaye Hoff resides in Parker, CO with her husband and three children. She is a Life Coach and owner of the Sheri K Hoff International Coaching Company. She teaches college classes as an adjunct faculty member and has earned her Master of Arts in Organizational Management.




Her new book, Keys to Living Joyfully, offers a way of living a meaningful, successful and joy filled life. Ms. Hoff is a personal and executive life coach. Spirituality is a vital part of her life's work. Prayer and meditation are integral pieces of her daily ritual, which enables her to pursue her life's passions and live a truly joyful life.


Her words on faith are derived from her own Christian walk and spiritual self-discoveries. Her action steps mix faith and years of leadership training, mentoring, and management.



Sheri Kaye Hoff suffered the tragic death of her younger brother when she was a teenager and struggled for years to rediscover the capacity to feel joy and to enjoy her successes. She has a heart felt desire to pass on her knowledge and discoveries that have led to a truly transformational life.

Ms. Hoff publishes a free weekly inspiration newsletter, Coach Sheri's Weekly Inspiration Tips. The Sheri K Hoff International Coaching Company also offers: * Teleclasses. * Webinars * In person small and large group Coaching * Corporate Training * Keynote speaking * Seminars * Individual Career and Life Coaching (For a limited time- receive a free introductory one hour life coaching session)
You can visit her website at http://www.lifeisjoyful.org/.

ABOUT THE BOOK:
Keys to Living Joyfully is an inspirational book on experiencing joy, peace, passion, and energy in daily life. It is designed to demonstrate the powerful roles of thoughts, action, and faith. The book is a merging of Sheri Kaye Hoff's spiritual life and lifelong interests in leadership and motivation. The ideas presented in the book are techniques and processes that have worked for the author and clients. Foreword is written by Michele Caron, creator of MyLIfeCoach.com

The book, Keys to Living Joyfully, was born out of a heartfelt desire to share the keys that lead to living a transformational life. Ms. Hoff is a personal and executive coach working with individuals, small businesses, and corporations. Her words on faith are derived from her own Christian walk and spiritual self-discoveries. Her action steps are a mix of faith. love, leadership skills, and management experience. Chapters include topics such as: Is your heart thinking right? And how to tap into intrinsic motivation. This book, Keys to Living Joyfully, offers the techniques and insights that move people towards more peace, joy, energy, and passion in everyday life.

WHAT SHERI HAS TO SAY TO US:

The Key is to Dream and Take Action
by Inspirational Author, Sheri Kaye Hoffy

“You are never given a dream without also being given the power to make it true. You may have to work for it, however. Richard Bach”

This is a beautiful quote and so true. I interpret this quote as telling me that my dreams are important. If I am dreaming something, I have or can acquire the tools, skills, and resources to make the dream a reality.

The second part of the quote indicates that there needs to be action. Many people dream and do nothing. The key is to dream and take action. I had a dream ever since I was a young woman that I would be a published author one day. I just knew it would happen. I gave several attempts to writing books. I thought I would write a novel. I never really got going, though. I would write a few chapters and stall. I began to see that my first book did not need to be a novel. I should write what I was born to write and motivated to write.

A lifelong interest for me is personal leadership. I have read hundreds of leadership books. My graduate studies have focused on leadership and my doctoral studies have also focused on leadership. I am and have been fascinated by the fact that people with similar skills and backgrounds achieve on drastically different levels. I also live a spiritual life and devote time to prayer and meditation. I began to see my spiritual life merge with personal leadership skills, and I also experienced recovery from a tragedy in my life. I realized that my book would really be my story. I would describe my quest of recovery and seeking joy and success in life. I had the book inside of me.

When I began to write seriously, it took me five and half weeks to complete my inspirational book, Keys to Living Joyfully. Five and half months from day one of working on the book- I published. I had a huge learning curve regarding publishing, but I had the power to make it happen.

Did it take work? Yes, it most definitely did. However, it was truly joyful work, and it all started with a dream.

Sheri Kaye Hoff

Compliments of Pump Up Your Book Promotion
“We take books to the virtual level!”
http://www.pumpupyourbookpromotion.com/

Please welcome Sheri with your comments below.

DePaul Pulls Off Miracle Win

My husband and I met at DePaul in sophomore year and got married a year after we graduated. For a while, we were both rabid DePaul basketball fans. Those were the days of Coach Ray Meyer, Mark Aguirre, Terry Cummings, and other basketball greats. We agonized each year about whether or not DePaul would make it to the NCAA, then we turned into basket cases the times they did get in.

Well, the DH is still a loyal fan. He's stuck with the team through the years, which have turned very lean, this year being one of the worst. They lost every game in their conference. Some say they're outclassed in the Big East Conference.

I don't watch or go to as many games as I used to. I'd rather write or read a book. In fact, my mystery Two Wrongs, features a main character who's a pro basketball player.

Still, when my husband called me at work on Tuesday to say DePaul beat Cincinnati in the conference tournament, I did feel a rush of joy, reminiscent of how I felt way back when. They play again at 11:00 a.m. today, so we'll see how they do. Even if they lose, we'll still be happy they had their one shining moment this year.

What about you? Are you a sports fan? If so, what kind of sport do you like? If not, that's okay, too. You can join my club of fair weather fans. Please share.

P.S. DePaul lost by 9 points today, but at least they had one brief shining moment of happiness. Kind of like life, I guess.

A Scare

My dog, Rascal, gave me a scare over the weekend. Sunday morning, right before I took her out, she made a little yelp like she was in pain. She wouldn't eat the rest of the day and was shivering off and on. Still, when I walked her, she had no trouble maneuvering, so I didn't think she'd twisted anything.

She has been known to get the shakes before and the vet said some dogs are like that, especially after they've been sleeping. Still, this was happening more often and I could tell she wasn't feeling right. She didn't eat her treats, which is very rare. She didn't want to sleep on her comforter, which she absolutely loves, but slept on the floor instead.

Also, she didn't demand my attention like she usually does when I'm at the keyboard. I didn't know how much I missed her nudges until she stopped doing that.

Since she's my baby, I was worried about her all day at work, and wondering when we should make an appointment at the vet. Maybe a piece of her rawhide bone got stuck in her stomach. Maybe she had samonella. All kinds of horrible thoughts raced through my mind.

Fortunately, she appears to have come around. The DH reported before I went to my Chicago-North RWA meeting that Rascal had eaten a few dog treats. Later he gave her some dog food which she ate, then she also ate more treats and dog food when I got home. Apparently it was an upset stomach. We may never know the exact cause.

The close scare reminded me of how important she is in our lives. What about you? Do you have a pet that means a lot to you, or maybe you once did? Please share.

Blog Talk Radio Show Up

Hi Gang,
For those who didn't get a chance to listen on Sunday, I've posted my Blog Talk Radio show player for you to listen in the left column.

L. Diane Wolfe and Barry Eva called in to say hi. They'll both be guests for interviews at a later date.

Also mentioned in the program were Marvin Wilson and Jean Henry Mead, who will also be featured in upcoming shows.

I'll be setting exact dates soon. I plan to keep the show on Sundays, 4pm or later, especially later when the weather gets better. Yes, Spring and Summer will happen. They always do each year.

Anyone else want to be on the show? Or do plan to host your own show? Or maybe it's not your thing. Please share your thoughts.

Tax Man is Coming

Please tune in to my Blog Talk Radio show today at 4pm Illinois (Daylight Savings Time) at http://blogtalkradio.com/booksandblogs

I've put off balancing my checkbooks and doing other mundane matters to keep my finances straight. It's finally caught up with me. I spent all day and evening entering numbers into the computer, so I can get one of my checkbooks to balance. I'm finally done. I've got another to do tomorrow.

Then, I need to get all my writing expenses organized. All this needs to be done by next Saturday for the accountant so she can work on it on time for the filing deadlines for Federal and State taxes.

What about you? Are you so organized you don't have to go through this kind of hell?
Please share.

Losing Track of Time - Daylight Savings Time

Please tune in to my Blog Talk Radio Show this Sunday at 4pm Daylight Savings Time - Illinois time - http://blogtalkradio.com/booksandblogs

Friday night I fell asleep on the couch. When I woke up at almost 10:30, I thought the next day was Friday. Then, I got my bearings and remembered it would actually be Saturday in the morning. That was a wonderful surprise to my foggy mind.

On Sunday morning at 2:00 a.m., we'll spring ahead one hour for Daylight Savings Time. I suspect many of us won't wait until 2 to set our clocks, but will set them before we go to bed, or maybe forget about it until we get reminded by someone the next day.

Speaking of losing track of time, this can happen in the book realm. It's a wonderful feeling to get so lost in a book you lose track of time. On the other hand, it's not so wonderful if you're reading a book and you can't keep track of when the events take place.

Authors need to be aware of this and insert small hints about the passage of time, so the readers have some idea if it's been a few minutes, an hour, a day, a week, a month, or more that have passed. You can do this by describing seasons, or even mentioning the sun going down, and in other ways.

What about you? Have you ever fallen asleep and lost track of time? Have you ever lost track of time because you were so engrossed in a book? Authors, do you have any other hints to portray the passage of time in a novel? Please share.

House Swapping and Identity Swapping

Just saw on WGN TV a segment about house swapping, an innovative way to buy a home. You list your home online and swap it with someone who has a house you like. This outside-the-box concept seems to be catching on. I'd say you'd have to be careful if you tried this, but if done correctly, it could be a great opportunity.

What about people swapping? I've read a number of books where for some reason the main character swaps identities with another person and all sorts of mayhem results. Later comes the confrontation and confession. All seems lost, but then by some miracle the day is saved.

One famous swap identities book is The Prince and the Pauper by Mark Twain.

The original Parent Trap movie with Hayley Mills is a favorite of mine.

Do you know of any other books or movies where a person swap takes place? Or, maybe you've written one yourself. Please share.

Iphones - Kindle, Stanza

Okay, you may know by now that I love my Iphone. I have mentioned that fact here before. Now Apple and Amazon have given me another reason for loving my Iphone.

A few weeks ago, I uploaded the Stanza app to get ebooks on my Iphone.

Today, I was actually able to upload the Kindle app from Itunes, so now I can get Kindle formatted books from Amazon also. Very convenient and tempting.

Who knows what else lies in the future for my handy Iphone.

What about you - do you read ebooks sometimes, never, often? Would you read one if it were convenient? Please share.

Making Mistakes

We walk a fine line when describing our characters' thoughts and actions. We don't want them to be too intimidating, or the reader may not identify with them. One way to achieve this is to let our characters make mistakes. That way they show their human sides.

The problem with letting our characters make mistakes is we don't want them to seem too stupid or no one will like them. I'm sure you've read those kind of books or seen those type of movies where the hero or heroine is too stupid to live, running straight into danger instead of doing the sensible thing to avoid it.

Some authors allow their character to make mistakes in judgment by trusting the wrong people or being overconfident in situations where danger is involved.

Have you noticed characters make mistakes? What type? Have you let one or more of your characters make a mistake? Please share.

My Pilot Blog Talk Radio Program From 3/1/09,10pm

I was in a wild and crazy mood Sunday night, so I decided to host my own Blog Talk Radio program. Here's the telecast on the left. Just click to listen. It lasts 15 minutes, so listen to whatever you wish. I will be interviewing guests on future programs and talking about their books as well as my own.

To listen to a live show or archived show is free, but calling in is a phone charge to New York for the host and the callers. To get around that, I plan to host my programs on either evenings after 9pm or Saturdays and Sundays using my Iphone. I was surprised it came in so well using the speaker feature. Saved a sore neck.

Anyone who would like to be featured on a future show, let me know below and be sure to include your e-mail address. Also welcome will be phone callers at the time of the show. I'm still investigating more of the ins and outs and will keep you advised of anything I discover. Another fun thing to learn and share.

Hint - If you get tired of listening to my Blog Talk Radio program here, you can always head over to Blood-Red Pencil for my Tuesday post, Carve Your Niche.

I'm Doing It Again

Hate to lead you on more goose chases, but lately I've been blogging at other spots. I don't want to keep you here too long and waste all my efforts, so here you go:

Trust me on this one - or maybe not - Please check out
Trust and Mistrust - Part 2 of my feature at http://mysteriouspeople.blogspot.com/

As luck would have it, Monday's also my semi-monthly day to blog at Make Mine Mystery -
Please check out - Dialogue or Description - What's your forte'? at http://makeminemystery.blogspot.com/

As always, I'd love a hi comment here to let me and others know you stopped by.
Thanks, Gang

My Interview Is Up at Mysterious People

Hi Gang,
Feel like going on a short trip? Please hop on over to http://mysteriouspeople.blogspot.com/ and check out my interview by Jean Henry Mead and let me know what you think.

Before you go, please let me know you're going over, since I'd hate to have no comments here today.

Thanks a bunch,

Morgan Mandel