Food & Travel - Female Nomad and Friends: Tales of Breaking Free & Breaking Bread

* Check out the interesting food and travel stories in the new book by Rita Golden Gelman, Female Nomad and Friends: Tales of Breaking Free and Breaking Bread Around the World

** Read an excerpt (about chicken, yum!) today at Fatal Foodies

New story: The Dolls of Elisa Fenoglio

I recently began writing about one of my favorite art forms, miniature dolls, for another publication.

The first story is on the breathtakingly beautiful miniature dolls by Italian doll maker and IGMA artisan Elisa Fenoglio.



** See the story and more photos of Elisa's work in the June issue of the CDHM online magazine, The Miniature Way.

Miniatures Monday: Dolls Smaller Than a Finger

These are so amazing that I just had to share them! Miniaturist Lucie Winsky recently made these tiny medieval dolls for a quarter-scale castle she is working on.

The dolls are only 1 1/2 inches tall - about the size of three-fourths of my little finger! The detail she includes in such tiny figures is incredible!

The detail is not surprising given Lucie is an IGMA (International Guild of Miniature Artisans) Artisan and a certified DAG Doll Artisan. I've shared some of her work here before, including her reproduction dolls based on famous paintings. She also is the artist who painted my miniature Starry Night oil painting.

* Read more about Lucie's work at the link above, or put Art to Life in the search box for a look at more of her work.

Welcome to Phyllis Schieber, author of Willing Spirits and The Sinners Guide to Confession

Welcome to Phyllis Schieber, author of Willing Spirits and The Sinners Guide to Confession,books about women and their friendships.


Sinners Guide to Confession - Kaye and Barbara are longtime friends, now in their fifties. Ellen, who is several years younger, develops a friendship with the other two women years later, solidifying this close-knit group. The three women are inseparable, yet each nurtures a secret that she keeps from the others.

Willing Spirits - Jane Hoffman and Gwen Baker, both teachers and in their forties, have a friendship that helps them endure. Years after Gwen is abandoned and left to raise two sons alone, she finds herself in love with a married man. After Jane is humiliated by her husband’s infidelity and Gwen must face her own uncertain path, the two women turn to each other. Now, as each is tested by personal crisis; Jane and Gwen face new challenges—as mothers, as daughters, as lovers. And in the process, they will learn unexpected truths about their friendship—and themselves.

About the Author:

Phyllis Schieber The first great irony of my life was that I was born in a Catholic hospital. My parents, survivors of the Holocaust, had settled in the South Bronx among other new immigrants. .In the mid-fifties, my family moved to Washington Heights. The area offered scenic views of the Hudson River and the Palisades, as well as access to Fort Tryon Park and the mysteries of the Cloisters. Her first novel, Strictly Personal, for young adults, was published by Fawcett-Juniper. The Sinner’s Guide to Confession, was released by Berkley Putnam and in March 2008, Berkley Putnam issued the first paperback publication of Willing Spirits.


Excerpt:
In her essay, “Women Are Just Better,” Anna Quindlen quotes the observation of a friend who says, “Have you ever noticed that what passes as a terrific man would only be an average woman?” And that’s when, as Quindlen describes it, “A Roman candle went off in my head…

What I expect from my male friends is that they are polite and clean. What I expect from my female friends is unconditional love, the ability to finish my sentences for me when I am sobbing, a complete and total willingness to pour out their hearts to me, and the ability to tell me why the meat thermometer isn’t supposed to touch the bone.” It’s so true. I know for certain that it is exactly what I expect and invariably receive from the women friends in my life.

I have a circle of women friends who sustain me, keep me sane, remind me of my worth, and reassure me that I am treasured. We say, “I love you,” at the end of every conversation; we unashamedly sign off our emails with the symbol for kisses, and we embrace and affirm our love for each other each time we meet. I think it is because women spend so much of their lives nurturing—their children, their husbands, their partners, their ailing parents, their students, co-workers, the list is endless—that they understand the need to let each other know how much they matter.

I don’t know how any woman survives without close woman friends. My friends are my support, my secret keepers, my cheering section—they mean everything to me.
Willing Spirits is actually dedicated to two women I lost very prematurely. The novel was inspired by my love for them and is intended as a celebration of the friendships women share.

I describe what it is like when the novel’s protagonists, Gwen and Jane, find themselves “falling in love” shortly after they meet:

Yes, women do fall in love with each other. Differently, of course than they fall in love with men. Falling in love with a man is a feverish experience. There is little control. But falling in love with a woman is much more serious. It guarantees so much more for the investment. For it is from other women that women are nurtured. It is from other women that they hear what they hope to hear from men. I understand. I know how you feel. I’m sorry for your pain. I care about what you think: Words that need no prompting. In that circle, women tell each other things that men and women tell each other first with their hands and lips and tongues before they can tell each other with words. Women comfort each other with touch that is meant to heal, rather than to excite. The mysteries of love are less complex between women.

The hidden passages are easier to negotiate. And the dangers do not seem as great as when the same journey is taken with a man. Around each dank and frightening corner, women hold out their hands to each other and form a human chain that is, quite simply, spiritually different. The lucky ones find men who (and it is a deep and well-kept secret between women) are more like women.

My friends are my mainstay. I have women friends from various stages of my life. One friend in particular has been my friend since she was twelve and I was ten (I continue to point out our age difference at every opportunity!) We met at sleep away camp and in the almost fifty years that we have been friends, we have been through everything together. Several years ago, she found out she had lung cancer. It has been a long and challenging battle that she blessedly seems to have won, but we take nothing for granted. We speak every morning, exchange news, reassure each other we are still here, and remind ourselves how lucky we are to be friends, to have each other yet one more day. We always, always have something to talk about, secrets to share. We are always still girls together. And I love that about us.

In The Sinner’s Guide to Confession, the protagonists, Kaye, Ellen, and Barbara, are very different from each other, yet their bond is unshakable. They are girlfriends. They may disagree. They may disapprove. But they are there for each other. It is the one certainty they can depend on in their otherwise unpredictable lives. Their bond is solid, and it strengthens each of them, making possible for them to navigate the unforeseen complexities that come their way. They are girlfriends together.

I close the acknowledgments in Willing Spirits with the following statement: “Mostly, however, I am indebted to my friends, the women who embrace me with their open hearts. They nourish me with their love and goodwill. I have been blessed to be surrounded by women who indulge my moods, allow my eccentricities, listen to my complaints, and applaud my triumphs. I cannot imagine how I would thrive without any one of them. They never disappoint me.” Girlfriends. Always, always my girlfriends.


* Follow the rest of the blog tour

* Visit Phyllis Schieber's blog.

New horror ebook coming: The Killer Valentine Ball

Check out the new cover for my ebook, THE KILLER VALENTINE BALL by C. A. Verstraete, coming in October from Muse It Up Publishing.

What does a girl want? To attend a killer Valentine ball, of course. But Jess gets more than she bargained for at this holiday party...

* Light horror sure to put a chill down your spine! (heh heh!)

Welcome to Carlton Scott, author of children's book Glamour Girl from the Stars

Today I'm welcoming Carlton Scott, author of the children's book, GLAMOUR GIRL FROM THE STARS.

Scott has more than 15 years clinical experience as a traveling registered nurse (RN) with a specialty in critical care nursing and a focus on children’s health. He has worked with both children and teens in mental health counseling and critical care nursing.

Inspired by his desire to cheer sick children, Scott has authored and illustrated three children’s books that teach kids the lessons of friendship, self-acceptance and adventure.

As part of his commitment to supporting children’s health, Scott donates 50 percent of all profits from his books to children’s hospitals across the country.


About Glamour Girl from the Stars:

“After traveling to and fro across outer space’s unknown, PleeDee discovers her world is similar to our own. When little girls live up to their potential wherever they are, they’ll shine brightly with confidence no matter how near or far.”


Interview with author Carlton Scott:

Why did you choose self-esteem, especially for girls, as your theme?

One night while watching the Miss Universe Pageant with my wife, Annie, I was sad that no girls from other planets were invited. I thought the title was a bit misleading…

Although I don’t have children of my own, I chose self esteem for little girls because of the experiences I’ve had working with girls of all ages as a mental health counselor and traveling nurse. I have provided care for patients, infants to teens, suffering from horrible abuse, self-mutilating behavior, and attempts at suicide.

I’m amazed at the myriad eating disorders girls can choose from and the superficial teasing projected at one another. I feel little girls should be encouraged to be physically active so they don’t have to worry so much about dieting and be comfortable in their own skin, no matter how they look.


What do you hope to share with the book?

I hope my readers laugh when they read my books. After working in five different children’s hospitals as a traveling nurse, I hope families with young kids will join me in my quest to help the Children’s Miracle Network and the nearly 200 children’s hospitals nationwide by ordering my three-book set from my website.


What are some of the best experiences you've had with the book?

My most surprising experience with publishing my third book was the fun I had bringing an alien girl to planet Earth. I enjoy having people share their daughters' reactions after reading my Glamour Girl book. Hearing people tell me that their kids started coloring with crayons and colored pencils after reading my books really brightens my day…

** See the rest of the book tour schedule here.

** BUY: Glamour Girl from the Stars.

Steal, er, Share Joe Konrath's Ebook: Is it Piracy or Sharing?

Joe Konrath, author of Cherry Bomb and the Jack Daniels series, is running an experiment. His claim: piracy or what he prefers to call file sharing, can increase sales.

So he is experimenting, saying his Kindle sales will not suffer as a result of his collection of Jack Daniels stories being given away free. You can read his claims and download the collection here.

Author Marilynn Byerly and other authors call the whole thing a fallacy as Joe may not suffer, but small press, ebook and indie authors and presses will suffer having their works put all over the web for free.

I'm still figuring out this piracy-file sharing - free thing. If you're lucky to have a number of books already published or are a writing machine, that cushion is larger. If you already have a name, yes, it makes sense that you will feel the hurt of free vs. sold books less.

People will do what they do. There's no stopping it. But it's like legalizing drugs - do you do it because "everyone" wants it? Is it a good idea? Aren't there still always those who do get hurt?

Yes, thieves will take what they want and won't pay anyway, no matter what. Entitlement seems to be the byword today (just ask all those jailed execs who still think they were the ones wronged and didn't do a anything illegal).

But... maybe that old saying still holds true: why buy the cow when the milk is free? Maybe the real key here is Joe is crazy - like a fox. Yes free works for him - he stirs the pot and gets all the free publicity he could ask for. Hmm...

* * What's your opinion?

A Pink Saturday Party!

What fun! Beverly at How Sweet the Sound is having a party!

Congrats to Bev on her "second" birthday for Pink Saturday! Let's bring out the cake and balloons!

Well, what better way to celebrate than a barbecue?

Here's part of the scene in my rooftop garden roombox built in a wall-hanging bookshelf.

Happy Memorial Day! Let's eat!

New Miniature Finds for May Flowers

I made a few new plants from some artificial plants I had bought a while ago. I like the shape of the leaves, which I painted a darker green.




The great find were these neat beads at Hobby Lobby for half off. (sale ends today!) I love the designs for vases! The package says Metal Beads. Aren't they fantastic? Unfortunately, they only had the one package of the larger bead which is my favorite. I'm making some new plants to make an arrangement in it.

And since it is also PINK SATURDAY at Beverly's blog, How Sweet the Sound, I went and visited Kathy at Reimagined Treasures who makes the cutest little kids' outfits!

And this is my dog, Shania, who has this funny habit of chewing on her leg when she's lying in the chair. Well, not really chewing, but she seems to think her leg tastes good or something. I finally was able to catch her on camera before she moved. ha!

** In the mood for a quick read?
Check out
MOTHERLY LOVE - a story for less than a cup of coffee! See link at right column.
... A mother's love is eternal...

Miniature Food that Looks Good Enough to Eat

Some neat videos to be inspired by. I can only wish to create such realistic food in miniature.

Amazing isn't it? These are 1/12th scale (1" = 1 foot). Most cakes are around or under 1" in size. Hungry yet?

Book blog tour: KJ Roberts, author of Pieces of the Star

Today I welcome author KJ Roberts, author of PIECES OF THE STAR, a YA suspense/thriller from FIDO Publishing. (Highly appropriate, I thought! Cool cover, too!) - And don't forget to check out the contest at the end!

In PIECES OF THE STAR, ex-cop and brain tumor survivor, Vincent Maxwell has been recalled for a special assignment: Capture a killer.

With no obvious common links or clues, Maxwell must work fast before another body turns up.

What he discovers suggests that more than his reputation is at stake. Wrapped up in an unbelievable world of superpowers, he’s dragged in deeper with a connection he never thought possible. Can he use the information to his advantage and stop the killer? Or will death strike before he finds answers?

Excerpt:

The man's mouth gaped open and his eyes were wide in terror. Something horrible had happened to him, yet only a small gash existed in his right ear.


Vince looked around the area. The local police force hadn't found any clues since five o'clock this morning when he'd gotten the call. Now the sun had begun to rise and people gathered around the yellow tape, murmuring worries about a possible serial killer.


Could anyone blame them? This was the second killing this month. Both victims had the same cut on the side of their head, but so far, they seemed to have nothing else in common. (Read more at above links.)


As part of her tour, KJ shares how one special dog turned her into a cat - and dog - person...

CAT-SITTING YORKIE

I’ve never been a dog person. Hey, don’t boo me. Anyway, where was I? Oh yeah, a dog person. My husband is notorious for dragging home strays. It all started years ago, and we’ve been through a few pets. Mostly cats, but dogs too.

About a year ago, we were down to one dog, a Blue Heeler and Malamute mix. My husband walked her every day, feed and played with his Princess. But one day he comes home from his walk with a puppy wagging behind Princess. A little dirty Yorkie.

I figured this puppy was someone’s pet, so I posted fliers. Sure enough, someone claimed him. We were sad, because we had come to love him, but took him home (all the way to the end of the street). An hour later, the man is back asking us if we wanted him. His granddaughter was scared of him and hadn’t stopped crying since he came home. (He was supposed to be a present for her.) So, we took him.

Now, like I said, I’m not a dog person. I like my cats, and I have a couple of them. But this little boy has wiggled into my heart. He is the cutest thing ever, does the funniest things, and loves the cats. He’s sweet and has so much personality I wanted to share these funny stories about our Boogie.

I have this knit jacket with the drawstrings in it, the ones that always come out. So, he grabs this drawstring in his mouth, pulls it in front of the cat and tries to get it to chase him. Once he has the cat’s attention, it’s on! He starts running around the coffee table and sofa with the cat on his heels. They’re about the same size too, but Boogie runs a bit faster. He’ll slow down and look back to make sure the cat is still chasing him, and then start running again. This game can go on and on while the family laughs. It’s about the funniest thing I’ve ever seen.

Currently we have another stray cat, well not really a stray - the neighbors moved out and left this cat behind. He’s not fixed and wouldn’t you know it, a female cat turns up pregnant. We have the momma and six kittens in the house in a box right now.

We’re working with a local shelter to find homes for all the cats, daddy too. The kittens are big enough they’ve started climbing out of the box and exploring. But Boogie’s right there to follow them around and make sure they don’t get lost. He makes sure we know where they are and helps herd them together. He’s pretty good at watching two at a time as they roam. So if you ever need a cat-sitter, Boogie’s your guy!

(Boogie sure sounds like a one-of-a-kind dog! Thanks for sharing, KJ!)

** Your Turn: Comment and you can win a copy of KJ's book, PIECES OF THE STAR. Share a funny story about your own dog (ok, cats too!) ha!

New Ebook: Motherly Love

New ebook: Motherly Love.

Maria's family had a secret: an ancient tradition she'd always thought was nothing more than superstition. Then her little girl fell ill. Now, just like her mother and grandmother before her, Maria vowed to do anything to save her daughter--even the one thing she feared most.

** BUY: Download at Smashwords for less than a cup of coffee!

Excerpt:

Motherly Love - C.A. Verstraete

Chicago, 1929
The kerosene lamp on the table flickered faintly, the feeble light enveloping the kitchen of the small flat with an eerie glow.

Normally, I would've jumped up at the increasing duskiness that masked the worn linoleum beneath my feet and the bulges in the excessively plastered walls. I hated the dark, and usually rushed to find some old candle stubs to dispel the shadows and augment our meager fuel supply.
Now, such things didn't really matter. Instead of feeling uneasy about the approaching shadows, I almost wished I'd be swallowed up by the malevolent beings I imagined hid unseen in the thick blackness.

A hoarse croak floated out of the small bedroom a few steps from the kitchen and stopped my musings. "Maria?"

"Yes, mother. I'm coming."

The dry hacking coughs that followed my mother Anna's call hurried my preparations. The pieces of silverware clattered against the chipped china bowl and plate I set on the tray and carried to her closet-sized bedroom.

For several minutes I stood mannequin-like outside the room, my heart hammering against my ribcage at the raspy sounds and the sickly scents that assaulted my senses. I sighed, struggling to cope with my mother's rapid decline. It was a burden that felt horribly heavy on my fifteen-year-old shoulders. I shifted uncertainly from foot to foot, my two-step of insecurity making the worn kitchenware clank some more.

"Honey, is that you? Come in and sit by me."

I braced myself and went to her bed. "Here, Mother. I made you some chicken soup and some tea. Better eat while it's hot."

She did her best to murmur her thanks, her words of appreciation now wrapped in hoarse whispers and phlegmy coughs that I wished I wasn't hearing.

"Sit, sit." She patted the worn chenille spread covering the small iron-framed bed in welcome.

"No, no, I don't want to shake the bed," I said. "You should eat before it gets cold."

"Cold, hot, it won't matter." She sighed and reached to reassure me when I gasped aloud. "Don't worry. I'm not giving up yet. The soup'll be just fine once it cools a little. We need to talk."

I hesitated but did as she asked and eased myself onto the lumpy mattress without jiggling the bed. She hadn't complained of any queasiness since yesterday; I hoped it stayed that way.

From my vantage point, the sharp angles that had replaced mother's once heavily padded frame were clearly noticeable. Her smile put me at ease until she leaned forward. Her jerky motion caused the necklace tucked beneath her floral patterned nightdress to spill forth.

The s-linked chain flowed out of mother's gown in a fluid motion like a golden snake, and then stopped. A low moan escaped me as I watched her skeletal fingers pull the rest of the chain into view. I glanced uneasily at the decades-old wooden amulet attached at the chain's end.

** BUY: at Smashwords for less than a cup of coffee!

(c) 2010 C. Verstraete http://candidcanine.blogspot.com

Witch hat swap

I was lucky to do a swap with Kat the Hat Lady (be sure to check out her cool hats!) - and got this neat face hat and broom. Thanks, Kat!

Giving me an idea to do a hat shop I think! (Like I don't have enough ideas to do yet? ha!) Well what's a few more, right?

* Coming up: more odd plants

Another EBook Reader: Borders jumps in with Kobo

So Borders is jumping into the ebook fray with its new e-reader KOBO, coming in June. Good news is that it will only be $150 - kind of bad news is it has no Wi-fi. You hook up to the computer to download. No big deal but does that mean you can't hook up right in a Borders? What about B&N letting you read free ebooks right in the store?

The price, though, is sounding more realistic. Eventually these things should come down enough to more reasonable levels. Then you'll start seeing used models on eBay and more clones on the market. For someone who carries a book everywhere and is used to reading books on computer, I'm intrigued. Eventually this might get to the point where almost anyone can get one.

* Your thoughts?

* Kobo details on PC World.

* Sample/BUY my NEW ebook: Motherly Love (you may have to sign in).

Almost 100 followers! Win a "Little" Something!

Since I'm nearing 100 followers, I guess I'll have a contest.

** Follow me and comment ON THIS POST about a book you're reading, share a line from your latest work in progress, or tell us about your latest mini. Make sure I have a way to contact you via blog, group or email.

* One winner will get a few mini books, journal, and a pencil.

* The 100th winner will receive a mini plant and book set. Yes all prizes are minis. Or if you prefer, I'll send you a (real) paperback mystery to read from my collection in good but used condition. * The 125th person will win a set of mini books and bookends.

NOTE: Message will show up later; I approve them manually.

Miniatures Monday: Make a Note of It

Thought I'd share another pic of my miniature journal and pencils. I had fun making these and am tickled the pencils came out so well! I still want to try some yellow pencils and maybe a set in a cup. And I'm thinking of trying a set of colored pencils next, (glutton for punishment? ha!)

Miniatures for Mom: New Designer Tote Bags for Sale

New CV Designer "Croc" Tote Bags - original designs.

Includes some magazines, flowers, newspaper, journal to write in and a pencil. (Well you have to use your own pencil to write with. ha!) All handmade.

(Note: only journal front page opens and 1 mag is open; other books/mags are closed for display.)

Red Croc tote with red plaid interior, or black croc with leopard or purple print interior plus contents.

Other colors and cloth outside available. Contact me for colors. (Pictured bags on hand; others made to order.)

Also coming:

* Witch/wizard tote (with witch mags and witch or spells book (nonopening), journal and pencil;

* Gardening tote with green stripe exterior, garden book and mags, seed pack set plus journal and pencil.

* Wedding tote: white set with brides mags and book, sample flowers, journal and pencil.

$15 each plus $2 shipping; additional shipping overseas. Contact me chrisATcverstraeteDOTcom (or contact page on website) for paypal address or mailing address.

Summer Garden Miniatures

Thought I'd start showing a few of my miniatures that I don't have online yet. This garden room is in a shadow box on my living room wall. The flowers are handmade. The birds and a few animals (I know there's a squirrel in there) are by Barbara Ann Meyer at Mini Gems.

Dollhouse Miniatures: Updated slideshow for dollhouse how-to book, In Miniature Style II

I updated the slideshow for IN MINIATURE STYLE II. See link for details on contributors.

Book blog tour: Cindy Bradford, author of Promises Kept

Today I welcome Cindy Bradford, author of PROMISES KEPT, part of the Keeping Faith series.

About Promises Kept:

After finding the father she never knew and graduating from law school, Faith O'Brien's mission is to bring down the priest who abused her father as a child.

To do this, the neophyte attorney must take on a shrewd, veteran Boston lawyer who will go to any means to win a case. But he underestimates Faith's passion for justice and her fight to right a wrong.



Who is Faith?

To Bradford, Faith is part of the bigger picture. She is and was the glue that held her father. Patrick, Sue (her mother), and Alice (her aunt & surrogate mother) together over time and place.

"To me, she represents so many East Texas women who are strong, determined and even aggressive sometimes. So often, females from small, rural settings are seen as needy and weak. I wanted to change that image with Faith because many of the women I have known from that part of the world are anything but. They are perfect examples of 'steel magnolias.' Perhaps, that characteristic was innate in Faith; maybe it was strengthened by her adversities; the reader can decide."

What makes Faith special and memorable?

"To her, there is nothing more crucial, more important, more pressing than this cause... until she meets and falls madly in love with Tyler England. Soon, her fighting instincts are called on like never before. Only this time her intelligence, perseverance and resolve may not be enough."

What inspired her story?

"I’m a big newspaper and magazine reader, and portions of her story evolved from my spin on contemporary events. I have traveled to 40 countries and numerous places in the U.S. Several of those places are woven into the story."

* * Post a comment on any of the posts during the book's virtual book tour, to be entered into a drawing for a copy of the first book in the series, KEEPING FAITH.

** BONUS - download an excerpt.

Pink Miniatures & Pink Saturday for May

Pink is the color today as part of this month's first Pink Saturday for May at How Sweet the Sound.

First, I stopped by Tales from an OC Cottage, who had some beautiful shell work. How pretty! Great ideas for that sea/beach cottage I was thinking of doing in miniature. Thank you!

My pink entry today is kind of summery - thought I'd share my funny little flamingo lady again. She's dressed for garage saling, and looks like she got some great finds!What better way to spend a Saturday!

Thanks for stopping by! Be sure to check back as I'll be scheduling some giveaways soon too!

Spelling Question; Plurals and Possessives & Solution

Well I'm familiar with plurals and possessives but... someone got me thinking.

How To's - as in lots of How To's.

Or How Tos. Which looks, well, odd.

Your opinion?

** Funny as the To's mostly have it even if Tos if the right way to spell it. But I solved the problem - took out the plural altogether. An easier solution. haa! Thanks to all for their two cents and help!

Preview: New Dollhouse Miniatures Book Cover: In Miniature Style II

An updated and expanded version of my miniatures book will be coming out in ebook - and print - early next year. Here is a preview of the fabulous cover of IN MINIATURE STYLE II !

The book contains fantastic how to projects by myself and other contributors including IGMA Artisans Kathi Mendenhall, Le Petite Belle Patterns and Lucie Winsky, plus miniaturists Bonnie Glazier, wigging tips from Dana Burton, Mini Doll List and a how to from Fern Rouleau.

Check out a photo preview slideshow and learn more about the contributors to IN MINIATURE STYLE II or click book cover at my website.

NOTE: To keep informed of news about IN MINIATURE STYLE II, click the yahoo groups button on the website front page to sign up for my periodic newsletter.

Congrats to Ann Parker, Author of Leaden Skies, Finalist in Colorado Book Awards

Congrats to author Ann Parker, whose historical mystery, LEADEN SKIES: A SILVER RUSH MYSTERY is a finalist in the historical category of the Colorado Book Awards

I had featured the boo, set in the old west, in a previous First Graphs entry. It definitely sounds like a great book! Read an excerpt as part of First Graphs.

Cheesecake!

Today, I thought I'd share the beautiful cheesecake my sister and nephew dreamed up.... see it at Fatal Foodies. Gorgeous (and yummy!) ha!

Miniatures Book Promo: Card Corner Scene

I've been hinting for a few days at something coming.... Well, I have been updating my miniatures ebook, IN MINIATURE STYLE, with new projects and profiles.

The new IN MINIATURE STYLE II should be coming out next spring -- in PRINT and in ebook. Stay tuned for more announcements and a peek at the fantastic cover and contributors! More info coming!

I made the pictured "Reading Corner" as a promotional item which I displayed at this past weekend's IMA Show....

The scene is made in a large greeting card with foam core board as the side walls and the bottom floor which are covered with scrapbook paper.

View of side wall: side table is a large wood painted painted with green paint and varnish. It's topped with a small wood circle. The chair is hand-made also.


The cabinet is filled with more books and magazines. Mini books on top (including mine!) are from one of my two Miniature Bookshelf printies pages. Simply wrap covers around pieces of mat board cut to size and painted white on edges. I also made the hydrangea. More about the hand-made items later!

** The corner was a prize for those signing my email list. And the winner is.....

Bonita Heldt. I will email you for proper mailing address.


** Be sure to come back for more announcements. There'll be more contests and giveaways as we go along to the publication date!

Miniatures Monday: Back from Dollhouse Shows

The fun of the dollhouse show season! I was a guest author at the IMA - Independent Miniature Artisans show in Schaumburg, Friday and Saturday, run by the always charming and stylish Thelma Lewis DeMet.

Lot of fun! Good crowds, sold some books. Boy, it's hard to see how you can get so tired just talking. ha! Fun to see some familiar faces and names from The Camp and Roomboxes from Yahoo Groups.

Good to see one of Roomboxes moderators/founders Gale Evans! DM from The Camp was chipper, despite that illogical fear of gnomes! See The Camp link above - she even was hoping that gnome would take a flying leap. ha! (Gasp - she dared touch one??)

Well, of course I had to buy a few things too!

The house purse kit shown above was from Michelle's Miniatures. It was so cute I had to get one. And I got the quarter scale spider web chair and table too - I want to use the spider web as a side table for my half scale project in a gothic clock case.

She has some really cool stuff I hadn't seen. Wanted to get the fortune teller's box but she was out of it. Check out the amazing gypsy wagon, too. Cool stuff.

* I also bought some great half scale gothic furniture kits from Susan at SDK Miniatures. I LOVE her new gothic line; the chairs look very cool in 1" scale too; so will have to get those for the wizard I think. I love her plants, too, and got a pretty red half scale carnation kit.



Sunday I went to the Bishop International Show. I didn't go last year so good to see some familiar faces and enjoy things I can't afford but can sure admire! Sadly I didn't take any pix. I saw so many great items! A shame that because of the volcano a few vendors didnt' make it. Even worse, one poor lady was sitting there without her merchandise as her luggage didnt make it! What a nightmare!

It was fun to see Anna Hardman, whose wonderful hand-sculpted dolls are even more beautiful in person. If you haven't seen them be sure to take a peek at her site!

***(NOTE: Anna's beautiful doll, Livia, recently won a 2010 Doll of the Year award - they are now voting to choose a winner in the miniatures category. (Her doll is the first dollhouse doll chosen for the category!) Winners will be announced in August/Sept. You can vote here.

Nancy Cronin also had her great dolls there; unfortunately, I just missed seeing her, but her witches always make me laugh! A fun weekend!

Lucky Lucky Me! Swap with Kat the Hat Lady

Oh lucky duck I am! Rarely do I win (and boy never the lottery! Maybe I better double-check that ticket tomorrow... .. haaa!) I am swapping with Kat the Hat Lady who makes incredible witch hats. And look at this cool hat I'm swapping for!

So... I told Kat about my tote bags, perfect for a witch, wizard, etc. to tote their books and things around. (Or prettier they'll suit a lovely lady, too.)


Here are a couple totes in a black shiny "croc" fabric (love the print!) with a record book, witch magazine and witchcraft book. (Oh, and she has a secret liking for the women's mags... shh! they're hidden! ha!)



So Kat,, which color lining do you like? The purple spotted lining, leopard print, or the lime green lizard? Your choice.... And do you want an attached strap across it or not? Fun, fun! Thanks for shopping at Chris' Mini Witchy Boutique! haa!


** And more on the tote bags later....

Faith and Finances Blog Tour: How to Help Others in a Bad Economy

Today we feature a book perfect for the times - FAITH & FINANCES: In God We Trust, A Journey to Financial Dependence
Jesus spoke about money and material possessions more than any other topic. The book offers a contemporary retelling of the parable of the Rich Young Ruler, giving a fresh look at the relationship between a person's faith and their finances.

Devotionals by Christy award-winning writer Ann Tatlock, plus best-selling authors, Loree Lough, Yvonne Lehman, Virginia Smith, Irene Brand, DiAnn Mills, Miralee Ferrell, Shelby Rawson and others, offer spiritual insight and practical advice on how to trust God, not wealth.



10 Ways to Help People in a Bad Economy

Points that offer some "food" for thought:

1) Stress less. Gulls don't store up fish and shrimp, yet they don't starve. In other words, don't worry about what you can't control.

2) Love more. Love is free. Families and friends remain the true source of significance. A life with love and being loved will outlast any economic downturn.

3) Give it all to God. Nations rise and fall. Economies expand and collapse. Whatever financial difficulties you face today God foresaw long ago and will see you through. Don't quit, but let go. Work, budget, but give whatever remains of your wealth to God and trust He'll make it stretch to provide for your daily needs.

4) Dream big. Dreams do not die, they only go dormant. You may not see your dreams come true, but that doesn’t mean they won’t. Make a photo album of places you’d like to visit and give it away as a gift. Write a letter of memories and share it with your spouse and children. Our plans for the future begin with our desires of today.

5) Smile often. Be careful how you live. Your actions and attitudes matter.

6) Trust others. Trust begins with an open hand. We cannot reach for the future with a closed fist. If you want to move forward you will have to trust again. Be wise and discerning, but trust. This is, after all, the lifeblood of our economy.

7) Let go. You can't make a sun rise or a sparrow sing. You control less than you think. Relax, let go, and help those you can.

8) Travel more. Memories don't lose their value, so travel more, not less. What you don’t spend on others you should exchange for memories. Take trips, even if it’s only around the block, to a new park, a creek or spending a day at the community center.

9) Spend less, savor more. Give thanks for the small things and don't begrudge the tough times. You can endure more than you think.

10) Look up. A bowed head will miss the sunrise, sunset and silver lining. Of all creatures man stands nearest to heaven so lift your chin, open your eyes and gaze toward the stars.

BUY:


** Follow the rest of the tour during April and May. See rest of schedule here.

Miniatures Wednesday: Books for the Dollhouse!

Even dollhouses and miniature rooms need books to make them look comfy. As part of an upcoming promotion, I made a miniature reading corner that includes some books and magazines.

I'll share more on the project later, but for now, here are some of the books (mine too!) that I made from Miniature Bookshelf printies at my website.

The book covers are wrapped around mat board painted white on the edges. The bookends are made from scraps of wood with two plastic star beads for decoration. It's a fun, simple little project that can add a touch of realism to your miniature scene.

Stay tuned for more on the project and an announcement!

Playing with Words

Author Morgan Mandel has a fun new feature called WORD PLAY over at Blood Red Pencil.

The game: use the word in a sentence. Today's word is "overpowering."

Okay, okay, maybe it's fun only to a writer. But... we can all use a little practice or can spruce up our language skills sometimes, right? Yes, even we writers need to use the dictionary or thesaurus once in a while (the real one, not the computer one!).

So, give it a try! For fun, remember that other word game? (does it have a name?)

See how many words you can make from "overpowering."

over
power
pow
ring
etc

I'll report back later on how many I got. Share your number, too.

Congrats to Fellow Writer Making Amazon Writing Contest Quarterfinals

I wanted to send congrats to friend and fellow writer Courtney Mroch, whose manuscript THE GHOST OF LAURIE FLOYD made it to the quarterfinals of judging in the 2010 Amazon Breakthrough Novel Contest. (Courtney also runs the interesting Haunt Jaunts blog.)

Her mystery was one of 5,000 entries chosen in the general fiction category (another 5,000 entries are in the Young Adult category.) Her book then advanced to the second round of 1,000 entries, with 500 entries in each of the two categories.

Her entry is now in the quarterfinals with 500 entries, 250 in each category. (wow!) The top 100 semifinalists will be chosen April 27 - and then go to Penguin editors who choose the last six entries.

So... this is where you come in. Readers and feedback are needed.

** Read the excerpt HERE - and give a review online at the site. Be honest, as the editors are looking for honest reviews, not just glowing reports.

NOTE: Since this is an Amazon contest, the excerpt is in KINDLE format. You can download the free Kindle for PC program if you don't have one. It's easy to do and free.

See a preview below and wish her luck! (And don't forget to put in your review at the link above.)

Preview: THE GHOST OF LAURIE FLOYD

When Megan Daniels begins her first day at the law firm of Mayhugh and Horne, she sees a body fall past the window. But when the police come to investigate, they don’t find anything. So begins Megan’s association with the ghost of Laurie Floyd, a secretary who committed suicide off the building’s roof the year before. Or did she?

As Laurie leaves Megan more and more clues, it becomes evident she didn’t take her own life. Someone killed her. But who? And why?

Megan believes Andrew Kirkpatrick and Matthew Horne, both attorneys, may know. She’s drawn to Andrew and repulsed by Matthew, but can she trust her instincts?

She joined the firm to work, not to solve a murder or fall in love. Both seem to be happening anyway. If she’s not careful, her job and her heart won’t be the only things she stands to lose.

Author Morgan Mandel Writes Her Own Destiny: Mysterical-e column

My interview with Morgan Mandel, author of KILLER CAREER, is now up in my Author Snapshot column at Mysterical-e.

Morgan has been successful at forging her own writing success.

See what she has to say about "Writing Her Own Destiny."







BUY:

New Miniatures Mystery Book: Monster in Miniature by Margaret Grace

Today is the release date for the new book, MONSTER IN MINIATURE in Margaret Grace's Miniature Mystery series.

This miniaturist is in BIG trouble...

For a festive Halloween project, Geraldine Porter and her granddaughter, Maddie, set out to create a multi-story haunted dollhouse. But their holiday fun turns to fear when a neighborhood scarecrow turns out to be a bloody corpse.

The series has been fun so far, but.... this one sounds great! Miniatures, a mystery, and.... a haunted house! Well, it doesn't get much better!

No one and only time to haunt in miniature, I say! (Yes, I have a mini haunted house. See link at my miniatures page at my website. )