Ritual

Kealie and I wrote a short story, that's turning into a longer story. Hey, we work well together, once we get going. Anyway, here's a snippet and the cover I designed!

“My Lord! The Lady Cora! She is outside the gates.”

“Well, then let her in!” Dmitri wasn’t at all sure why Carlton was in such a tizzy. “I cannot, she seems to have collapsed at the gates, and I will not be able to gather her in time before the sun rises, my Lord!”

Clarity hit Dmitri like a hammer upside the head. In a blink he passed Carlton in the doorway. “Which gates?” His voice barely an echo as he blew past the old man. “The front, Sir!”

Even though he was already down the hall and up the stairs, he heard Carlton’s words as if the man stood next to him. Dmitri felt the prickle along his back that heralded the beginning of the rise of the sun, and knew, “No time, no time.” He’d never make it to the gates and back inside running.

He stopped moving, took a deep breath, and stood still long enough to focus. Dematerializing he cast his particles through the air to the front gate. He materialized just outside the gates, grateful the sun was still low enough on the horizon to provide enough shade that he could stoop and snatch the bundle of what appeared to be clothing crumpled at the base of the pillars holding the wrought iron gates guarding his compound. He took another deep breath then dematerialized again, holding the precious cargo, before the sun could rise further and burn his sensitive skin.

Dmitri materialized directly inside the front doors of his home. While short exposure to the sun wouldn’t kill him, it would burn a bit. And too long, and he would wish he was dead. Then again, he was old enough the sun didn’t have much effect on him any longer. Cora on the other hand…

Winded he leaned back against the wall beside the door and squeezed his eyes shut as he tried to catch his breath. In his slightly weakened state, he shouldn’t have been able to manage such a feat as two dematerializations in such quick succession, but his powers had a mind of their own when it came to the female in his arms.

Dmitri gained control of his breathing and gazed down at the woman in his embrace. Her face was obscured by the hooded cloak she wore, so he shifted his hold on her to move the folds of fabric that he might see her face. He lost his breath again when he saw the condition she was in.

The normally plump, vibrant woman he knew was nowhere to be found. Instead, in her place was a pale skeletal imitation wrapped in threadbare oversized clothing. Her skin stretched tight over bones and sinew, but the bare evidence of the muscles along her arms told him that she wasn’t yet beyond saving. Her hair, usually a lush and shiny gold, was dry and straw-like in consistency and color.

“Oh, koshka, what have you done to yourself?”

Friday Fun With Megan Slayer

And Kealie Shay. Haven't heard from her in a while, have we? Yeah. We haven't. Imagine being me. She's my BFF, so when she goes silent, I get a little sad. But...I have news! Yes, news. I'm making her come out of her hibernation to write. Making. Yes, you heard me right. Making.

We have a great surprise coming for Halloween that I sure hope you all enjoy. There was some major discussion and a lot of work, but I think it'll be worth it. So stay tuned. I miss me some Kealie almost as much as you all do. Grin. Stay tuned!

Friday Fun with Megan!

I wasn't sure what the heck to write about today. I mean, I could post hot guys, but that's what tomorrow is for (make sure you vote for the hottie of the first half of the year). I could post something funny, like a video. Could even entertain you with a video clip of a song that's stuck in my head. Then there's always my abudantly exciting typing skills. Turns out I can't type the word the right on the first try. Shrug. It's a gift.

But then the thought struck me, or rather I was talking to Kealie and she struck me--either works. I happened to be complaining that I didn't have a clue as to what I was going to blog about.

"Why don't you blog about how you and I aren't even in the same state and yet we're chatting like we're in the same room? And then add that you and DH ARE in the same room and are chatting because it's easier?"

You make me sound so boring and lazy...

But really, yeah, Kealie and I are in two totally different states on opposite ends of the country and yet we can chat and it's like we're in the same room. Then again, we end each other's sentences and know what the other is thinking so that's got to be even scarier.

So honestly, I had nothing exciting to talk about other than I'm glad there's chat. Otherwise I'd have to really ship the brain Kealie and I share back and forth instead of talking on the computer. Really thrilling I know. But then again, I'm procrastinating so it happens.

Now I'm off to conquer a WIP. Ta!

Monday Author Interview with Nicole Morgan

I'm here, I'm here... running late... as usual. Blame it on the men, but I could sure use a drink. But I can wait until Megan introduces our guest author for today!

Today we have the fantastic Nicole Morgan on the couch with us. I'm super excited to have her here because her books are really steamy. If you ask nicely, Javier will bring you a drink Nicole. ::snaps fingers:: Javier? Yes, love. a couple of drinks, please? Thank you. Now Nicole, tell us your latest news?

I finally wrote my very first paranormal romance. If you had asked me 2 years ago if I ever thought I’d be saying that, the answer would have been a firm, NO. But, I decided to challenge myself and jump out of my comfort zone. I’ve submitted it for publication, and am eagerly awaiting news to find out if it’s as good as I think it is. I really did put a lot of time and effort into this one, researching history of long ago to make the story really flow and sound plausible. So if everyone reading this could cross their fingers and toes for me, that would be GREAT!

Comfort zones are meant to be pushed... :-D I'll cross my toes (yes, I CAN do that!)

Jumping out of the comfort zone can be worth it. Grin. I'll have the boys cross their fingers for you,. What are your current projects?

I’m currently writing the 3rd book in my Intimate Temptations Series, appropriate titled Intimate Seductions. It’s the story of Warren, a mid thirties stable manager to a ranch in Texas. The young granddaughter of his employer has grown up from pigtails to perfection before his eyes. She’s beautiful and off limits, but I think we all know what happens when one is told they can’t have something. It just makes us want it more.

Sounds yummy.. and you gotta love when the fact that the woman the hero once thought was just a little girl puts all that womanly ... not so much a girl... in his face, lol.

Wow. You are busy! The more I look at your cover art, the more I really like it. Who designed the covers?

The cover art on all of my current releases has been done by the very talented, Jinger Bruton Heaston. She has a way of taking my thoughts and ideas and making them a reality. They can all be seen on my publisher’s author page here: http://bookstrand.com/nicole-morgan

Have to say I like those covers too. She looks to be talented!

Very cool. I'm seeing lots of covers. How many books have you written? And the harder question, which is your favorite?

Geez, I thought I was being interviewed about my books. NO ONE told me there would be math involved. *sigh* Okay, give me a minute. *looks up squinting while counting on my fingers* It seems I have written a total of 12 books. Eight of them are current releases and the others will be out in the coming months. By the time this interview goes live, that count will most likely go up to thirteen! Which one is my favorite? Hmm… that’s a tough one, but I would have to say any of my Navy SEAL books from my Sweet Awakenings series. Please, please don’t make me choose. LOL. I love all of their stories so much.

Wow... twelve books. How awesome for you. Hmmm... Navy SEALS...

Did I forget to mention we will make you choose? Just kidding. We won't. Not today, anyway. Grin. What do you think makes a good story?

While I love a good erotic romance story, I am a complete sucker for stories which throw in some suspense and intrigue. Which is probably why almost all of my stories have that aspect built into them in one way or another. There’s nothing quite like a good bit of mystery to add to the heat of a relationship.

I have to say that some of my favorite romance, whether they're erotic or "straight", are the ones with a little bit of intrigue.

You can say that again. Now for some really fun questions. What is your favorite pizza?

Mmm… Spinach and mushroom hands down! For those who have never tried it, DO IT! It is so yummy for your tummy! 

Okay... no offense intended, especially when I tell my kids not to disparage other peoples' taste in food....but the mushrooms make me shudder. Just saying. I like spinach, though!

Hmm. I'm good with spinach that's not cooked. I'm not sure you've got me on this one. Are you a morning person or a night person?

I would have to say a night person. Even if it’s been a long day and I’m tired, I almost always get my second wind and can actually be very productive in the moonlit hours.

I'm such a night person... poor Megan will be fading on her side of the country and I'm raring to go, lol. Maybe because it's finally quiet in my house I can feel more productive. :::shrugs:::

I can, too. With Kealie being 4 hours time change difference from me, yeah, I've learned to work in the moonlight. Can you taste the difference between Pepsi and Coke? If so, which do you prefer?

Of course I can. I would have to say I prefer Coke over Pepsi. I’m not the type of person who can point out the variances in flavors, so I can’t really tell you why. Truth be told though, if I was to have any indulgence of the soda variety, it would be Dr. Pepper. That is my favorite of the caramelized selection of soft drinks.

And here I am in the Pepsi camp, despite my mother calling me a traitor to the "real cola", lol. But that's not even the drink I drink the most either... my weakness is Mountain Dew.

When you know, you know. How many fingers am I holding up?

Pffftt… that’s easy! 12! Wait…umm…why are you looking at me like that? Hang on a second, I’ve got something in my contact.

It might be easier to just guess... between the two of us... it's probably more than you think!

snicker. We really were holding up 22 fingers. Javier helped. If you could wish for anything, what would you wish for?

Without a doubt, without question and without even giving it a second thought, I wish for PEACE. There is so much war, violence and crime in the world, wouldn’t it be nice (truly) if mankind decided to live in harmony with one another, rather than at odds? And add to that – if my genie was granting me 3 wishes – no more disease or poverty. That would be my wish.

Very altruistic...I like it!

Well, those are great wishes. Here's Nicole's links:
http://www.nicolemorganauthor.blogspot.com/
http://nicolemorgan1.webs.com/
Thanks Nicole for being here. I hope you've enjoyed your time on the couch. Feel free to ask the CBs for anything. But note, they do bite.

Yes, thank you for hanging out on our couch and putting up with our Cabana Boys today... I know just how much of a hardship that can be :::wink wink:::

Any questions for Nicole? Anyone? Anyone? Buehler?

To Prologue... or Not To Prologue...

That is the question...

What does this stem from you ask? Don't worry, I'll tell ya... I've been working on a story... for a looooooong time. I love the characters, and they won't let go. I wrote out the story, and had Mysti read the first rough, unedited draft. We both agreed it was too short and needed a lot more detail.

Then, as happens a lot, the story changed a bit. A character I thought was a secondary character took exception to that and pushed to the forefront and what started as a rather sweet, if hot M/F morphed into a much hotter M/F/M - M/M/F story. As I rethought and rewrote and reworked I realized that I needed to tell a bit more backstory. I wanted everyone to know HOW these two amazing guys who may have never looked at another man that way were drawn to each other along the way. But to do that, I figured ... I'll do a Prologue!

Then, recently, while in the midst of refining what I started with I read a blog post by a rather well-known editor. She said that she doesn't even read the prologues of submissions, or if she does, she doesn't really count it toward her opinion of the book as they're not usually something she finds relevant... or something to that effect. Basically, she questioned the need for a Prologue at all. And suddenly I was stopped cold in my writing as I angsted... ask Megan, I'm seriously good at the angsting! (No, I don't care if it's a word, angsting is part of my vocabulary, deal with it!)

As a reader, I actually enjoy the Prologues. I like knowing a bit of the "before all this" story. I love knowing that there are characters in this story that have a decided back history and I feel like the voyeur who knows something the characters to come don't. Now, I'm wondering... if it's such a bad thing that an editor doesn't even really read them... why do I like them so much? And will it hinder this story's possible appeal?

All that aside, I like where my Prologue goes, I like how it gives a hint of what's to come, and doesn't give it all away... so I know it's staying. And as Megan would tell me, "Just finish the damned thing so I can read it before you worry so much!" But, I wonder... and that's my question... As a reader or even a writer... what are your feelings on the usefulness of a Prologue?

Author Interview ~ Lila Munro

It’s been a long weekend. Friday the 13th and all...I’m worn out. Javier? A drink please? Thank you. Kealie should be here in just a few. Ah, there she is. I’ve set up the play pen. Want a drink?

Yup, yup, I’m here… is the playpen for the baby or for me? Howdy howdy howdy… doody… WOW, way too much caffeine this morning! So sorry! I think maybe I should pass on a drink… wait… I can have water! I know… I know… lots of exclamation points right now, but you’ll have to deal until the caffeine wears off! :-D Super glad I made it in today to hang out with y’all!

I’d like to welcome our author today, Lila Munro. Thanks for being here. We’re glad you could stop by. Javier will get you a drink and a snack, if you’d like. Grin. He’s feeling very helpful. And while he does that, I’ll get this party started. Where are you from?

Where am I not from is a better question. :) I was born and raised a hearty corn-fed Missouri gal, then I grew up and married a Marine. Now I’m from where ever Uncle Sam deems me to be from that day. Currently, that place would be North Carolina, but it’s also been Delaware, Virginia, and Okinawa Japan. Now, I must be honest, I’ve held a driving license in three different counties in North Carolina, so I’ve been known as an inlander as well as a down-easter—believe me in the Carolinas there is a difference.

*snort* Boy can I relate to being from everywhere and nowhere. I come from a pretty big Irish/German Military family… my first word was a cuss word… go figure. And isn’t it funny what causes one to be from somewhere or not from somewhere no matter how long they’ve been in that somewhere? Okay, sorry… still the caffeine!

Goodness. You’ve really been everywhere. Tell us your latest news?

My latest news…Three for Keeps is out there in the world. It’s my latest work to be published by Rebel Ink Press. It’s a m/m/m/f about a woman named Zoey Matthews and the three men she’s known since childhood, Dane, Jack and Ryan.

Oooooohhhhhh sounds… yummy! But I always wonder… with that many men… is it a sandwich or a wrap? Just wondering…

Ooh! Sounds hot. When and why did you begin writing?


I’ve always known that I wanted to write on some level from the time I could say the ABC’s and I memorized The Little Red Hen. At that point I couldn’t write down stories, but I was really good at making them up. I had a very vivid imagination. When I was in sixth grade we traded teachers once a day in our teeny country school (I graduated in a class of fifty-two) and I was introduced to the world of creative writing by Mr. Trokey. I was very much taken in when he told me I had a knack for carrying a story line and that someday he knew he’d get the first signed copy of a book I’d written. I really doubt he thought that book would come in the form of an erotic romance. From there I tinkered with writing off and on until my muses went dormant when the children arrived. Apparently crying, screaming babies tend to terrify muses and they flee for the hills at the sound. Then one day I looked up and figured out I had turned forty and my dream was yet to be realized. It was at that point I dusted off the old notebook, found an idea or two and turned them into The Executive Officer’s Wife.

We know quite well how children can make the muse cringe.

Funny how things work… I can honestly say my muse isn’t terrified of my small children… more… obnoxious that I don’t sit down and do what she wants right when she wants… kind of like having another child that only I can hear. Glad yours just went into hiding… mine demands duct tape.

When did you first consider yourself a writer?

Oh golly, sometimes depending on the way the day is going I still question that title. However, for the sake of a real answer, I’d say that when I knew I had readers, that’s when it hit me.

We can relate to that, too.

Those readers/fans can change your whole outlook on what you do and why you do it. Gotta love em. Do you have a specific writing style?

I coined my own writing style actually. I call it realmantica—that’s erotic romance with a realistic twist. I’m a stickler for facts and realism. Yeah, it’s supposed to be all about the fantasy, but it has to stay grounded on some levels.

There is something special about a story that’s grounded in reality. Fantasy is good, but I like my contemporary romances with realism.

That makes sense… nothing worse than reading a story and thinking, “Yeah, that would never happen in real life!” And I think we should all start using that term… “realmantica”… it covers so much ground! You’ll so fit in here if you continue designing your own words! How did you come up with the title?

Aside from the fact that it seems a necessary evil in today’s world to make it clear that there is ménage going on between the pages of your story, all four characters in Three for Keeps are playing for keeps. I always try to pin down a key phrase or theme in my work and morph that into a title.

Well, that makes sense. I always have a hard time coming up with titles… I seriously want someone else to say “You should call it this!” But alas, I’d probably be difficult about that as well…

Great idea, Lila. Kealie… hon… not gonna happen, lol. What is the hardest scene you have had to write (published or not)? Why?

In Bound by Trust, my heroine, Madi Melbourne, learns that her deceased Ranger husband was having multiple affairs. She’d always suspected this, but the day that his personal affects arrive via the UPS man, her worst nightmare comes true as the trunk is filled with photos and letters of and from other women. Madi has a complete and total meltdown at that point. Feeling everything she was feeling was intense and I spent a great deal of time being angry and hurt with her and crying. Hell, I was tempted to throw things with her.


Wow, yeah… I’ll throw things with y’all if you’d like! That would make me snap my bolt too!

I can see where that might be painful and hard to deal with. I’ve had those times and characters, too. I understand. Are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?

Many writers will deny any part of themselves or people they know somehow being woven into their work. Not me. If I know you watch out. Something about you--a quirk, a funny saying you always spill, a mannerism—will come out in a character at some time. As for me, yes, there’s a piece of me in all my characters or stories and as far as experiences, absolutely, although I keep which ones under my hat. ;)

I can honestly say that I have shamelessly used people I know… especially when they are just too fun for me to make up! They never know, but sometimes others recognize them, lol.

I don’t know that I have specific people I know in my books, but I can relate to the mannerisms part. I use actors, but same idea. What book are you reading now?

Right now I’m finishing the Loralei James series, Rough Riders. I love cowboys and this woman knows how to dish them up proper.

I’ve only read a few of her books and I’d have to say, she does do cowboys well… hmm… yes, I mean that in every way you could possibly take it!

Yes, yes she does. Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?

There are so many out there right now. And many of them are really good. I’d have to say a newer writer that I can’t live without some of her work being on my Kindle would be Cherise Sinclair. Her Masters of the Shadowlands are positively yummy!

Yup, she’s pretty awesome!

Absolutely. What are your current projects?

Oh Lordy. That list is long and longer. I’m currently working on book 3 of my Identity series, Assumed Identity, book 3 of the Force Recon series, Rogue Nation, book 3 of the Slower Lower series, A Slower Lower Leap, a new series due out later this year, The Sergeants of Echo Company, and wouldn’t you know it, with all that going on three new marines started talking my ear off recently and their series is tentatively called Marriages of Convenience. My easy bake book oven is always on and hot.

*snort* Someone once called it an “Idea Garden” and I liked that… but Easy Bake Oven is hilarious!

The easy bake oven. Nice. Do you see writing as a career?

Yes, I do. I don’t have a traditional day job like most other writers do, although I do have a gig over at Rebel Ink Press as the VP of Business Affairs. However, my husband provides very well for me and our nest is now empty, so my purpose in life through his eyes is stay home and make my dream come true. He’s my very own hero, and I appreciate all he does to allow me to wordsmith all day long.

I’m sure he’s an amazing research assistant too!

Having those men to back us up is fantastic. I agree. Can you share a little of your current work with us?

Absolutely…

Zoey Matthews is in love. She’s been in love since the day she was dropped off by a social worker at yet another foster home on a back country road miles from nowhere, Missouri. At age ten, she met the men of her dreams. Over the course of sixteen years, Dane Cardwell, Jack Devereux and Ryan Wilkins fell in love with her, too. They’ve each told her they love her, they’ve shown her and each man has gone so far as to ask her to marry him. But what they don’t know is Zoey loves them all.
Her game of kiss and not tell all comes crashing down around her the night of her graduation from veterinary school and Zoey runs for the mountains. Of Colorado. Hoping to outrun her obsession with three men and forget them all together, she stays gone for ten years. But the wound has never healed. In fact, it's done nothing but fester. Needing to clear the air, Zoey agrees to spend a few days back home with the boys never imagining it would turn into a week filled with comparison sex as Dane, Jack and Ryan each try to get Zoey to choose between them and their varied tastes.
When she finally tells the truth, a truth only one of them has known all along, Zoey fears the foursome will never be able to make a sharing relationship work. After all, aren't there just too many personalities and desires to sort through? Add in the kink factor and things get really complicated. Zoey’s not convinced the truth has any merit, but there's one thing she knows for sure…this time she's playing for keeps.

Here’s a bit of an excerpt (unedited):

“I mean I have needs. Things I’ve discovered I like. Dark things, Dane. I think you have those needs as well. Tell me you wouldn’t like to lash me to this wrought iron bed spread eagled and make me come until I begged for mercy. Have you ever laid awake at night and thought about bending me over and spanking me until my ass was as pink as the flowers on that chair over there? I have.” Zoey watched as Dane’s breathing sped up and his nostrils flared. “Know what else? In my fantasies Ryan and Jack help. Sometimes they take turns watching while the other one fucks my mouth while you take me from behind. Now are you disappointed, Dane?”
“Hell no, Zoey. Get up,” he rasped out and stood.
“Why?”
“Because first we’re going downstairs to tell the others what you’ve decided. Then I’m bringing you back up here and fuck you seven ways to Sunday. In my room, not this frilly little princess room we thought you needed. Starting with that filthy little mouth of yours,” Dane explained as he walked to her side of the bed then grabbed her wrist and helped her stand. “You may have just told me what you want, but you also said you loved when I made the decisions. Consider your decision making power revoked, sweetheart, starting now. Oh, believe me, Zoey Christine Matthews, I’ll give you exactly what you want and more.”
I hope so.
Zoey followed Dane down the stairs naked as the day she was born with her head held high. Ryan was sprawled out across the couch with a Michelob in his hand and a scowl on his face. Jack was absent.
“Where the hell’s Jack?” Dane spat as Ryan bolted upright at the sight of Zoey in all her glory.
“The kitchen. What’d she do let you get to third base, too then bail?” Ryan snipped.
“No, she didn’t. Jack! Get your ass in here!” Dane yelled all the while still hanging on to Zoey’s wrist.

“Dane…”
“Did I give you permission to speak?” he growled and shot her a look unlike any she’d ever seen from the men she’d experimented with.
“No,” she squeaked.
“Then don’t.”
Zoey nodded and averted her eyes.
“What?” Jack asked strolling into the room with a sandwich in hand and a huge bite in his mouth. When he saw Zoey he choked and wheezed then coughed twice. “What the hell?” he managed before coughing again.
“Zoey is under the impression we’ve invited her here to make her choose between us,” Dane bellowed. “Her conditions to this are apparently that we fuck her senseless until she makes her decision. Am I getting this right, sweetheart?”
Zoey nodded and never looked up.
“So, in light of this recent development, I’m first. Although she told me she’ll take us all on and in fact has had fantasies about it. Am I still on track here, Zoey?” Dane demanded.
Again she nodded.
“Zoey, sugar, are you sure about this?” Jack wheezed.
“Answer him,” Dane said.
“Yes. Perfectly sure. I know what I’m doing, Jack, just as long as you all can live with my decision once it’s made.”
“Well, can we live with it?” Dane asked.
The room was so quiet for a few seconds Zoey swore she actually heard the men’s pulses pounding.
“I can,” Ryan finally said with a quiet resolve. “Jack?”
“Yeah, I can live with whatever she decides.”
“Good, we’re all in agreement then. Now, does anyone have an issue with any of this before I take her upstairs and take her sweet ass to task?” Dane asked.
“Not as long as it’s what she really wants,” Jack said flatly.
“Zoey?” Dane said
“It’s what I really want.”
“Ryan, any objections?”
“Nope.”
With them all in agreement, Dane almost flew back up the stairs with Zoey in tow.
Whew. I don’t know about you, Kealie, but I need a cold drink after that excerpt. Fanning self. I’ll let you do the next question.

I’m sorry, what? I was a bit distracted… OH… ummm… kay… Do you have to travel much concerning your book(s)?

That’s one of the beautiful things about being a military life. We’ve travelled plenty. Although at the time we were traversing America’s highways and bi-ways, I had no idea seeing so much and experiencing so much would someday come in handy where my writing is concerned. Most of the places I write about I’ve seen or experienced in some way. Another beautiful thing is that what I’ve not seen or experienced I have a friend or neighbor that has and I can usually wheedle a few facts out of them.

Hee hee. We know that, too.

LOL, helps to have… resources. Who designed the covers?

Rebel Ink Press has a wonderful graphic artist in house. Carl J Franklin. He does beautiful work, no?

I’d have to agree.

Absolutely. Do you have any advice for other writers?

One of the best pieces of advice I got when I started this journey to publication was write what you know. I’ve been a military wife for fifteen years, and have seen and done it all, been through all it has to offer good and bad. I believe my readers get a realistic taste of romance, a solid love story with a banging HEA, through my stories. So, I pass on the advice. Write what you know.

I’ve heard that advice a lot, and it never fails to make it that much easier. I’m not saying you shouldn’t expand your horizons and push the envelope of your comfort zone a bit… but writing what you know at least makes it so it’s not forced… or farced either, lol.

Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?

Thank you. Without your support and continued readership there wouldn’t be a Lila Munro.

Yup, always a good thing to remember!

I agree. What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?

Bubble baths. I love bubble baths and it’s my quirk to take to the think tank any time a scene isn’t coming together quite like I want it to. I spend a lot of time there and time of day has no bearing on when I climb in—of course time of day does dictate my beverage of choice as I soak. 


Now I think that’s something I should try.

No kidding… but usually I’d have chubby fingers poking under the door demanding I tell them what I’m doing… :-D How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?

To date I have twelve releases. As far as a favorite, I consider each one to be as unique as one of my children. I didn’t play favorites with my children, I loved them each uniquely and I love each of my books with the same resolve.

Good answer. As a child, what did you want to do when you grew up?

Let’s see, the better question is what didn’t I want to be…and just so we’re clear, I’m not entirely certain I’m grown up yet. A nurse, a journalist, a wife and mother, psychologist, teacher, dental assistant, pharmacy technician…see a pattern here? However, I can tell you this much, I’ve achieved all those to some degree through the art of military wifing and what I don’t hit there, my characters get to experience. 

Do we seem to be grown ups? I think Peter Pan is my idol! And now we’re gonna move on to the “seriously? There is no way these are about writing” questions! YAY!

Grin. You can erase any horrible experience from your past. What will it be?

Wow. Some of my horrible experiences rate pretty high on the horrible meter, all joking aside. Very few people in the world are privy to my horrible and I’ll keep it that way here, but I will say this—my horrible was certainly nothing as simple as a botched prom date, spilling spaghetti on me in my sweet sixteen outfit or getting caught making out on a dirt road by the Missouri State Highway Patrol. Nope those are simple compared to some of the horrible things I’ve endured. And to be honest, as much as the horrible has made me tear my hair out at times, sent me to tears, forced me to scream and rip things off the walls then hide so no one would know, I’m not sure I’d erase them. Each experience is a chance to grow. As horrible as the experience was, as negative as it was—somewhere along the way I learned something. I wouldn’t have been the straight A student had the horrible not happened. I wouldn’t have been such a protective Mom had the horrible not happened. I wouldn’t have been compassionate and tolerant had the horrible not happened. In short, I wouldn’t be me.

Oh, darlin’ I can completely relate! I can say with complete confidence that I’m stronger for all the crap! Good for you. When you looked in the mirror this morning, what was the first thing you thought?

It’s Monday—Yick! But you’re beautiful…yep, we can do this, Lila.

Yep, you can do this. Grin.

Kind of like my “I got this!” LOL Have you ever eaten a crayon?

No but I think I’d be more inclined if they had flavors that matched the colors…

AMEN! Don’t tell me that crayon is strawberry and then not make it at least smell like it!

Now that’s an idea I want to see. There were those smelly markers. I’m strange. We knew that. What do you want to know about the future?

Nothing. I like surprises and what’s the point in living if you know the outcome?
I’d have to agree.

True enough. Have you ever cried during a movie? If yes, which one and why?

Oh absolutely. Several, but the one that still makes me cry no matter how many times I watch it, Steel Magnolias. My goodness, who wouldn’t cry?

OMG, that is my all time favorite movie! I swear, Megan and I are totally Weeza and Clairee… sometimes. But I cry every single time when M’lynn loses it at the funeral… every time and I know the danged thing by heart.

Yes! I cry during that movie every time. But I’m also a sap. What is your favorite pizza?

I have sampled some doozies…remember the question about strangest thing consumed? Try tuna and corn…was pretty good actually. So, a fav? Don’t really have one as far as toppings, although I veer toward fresh and healthy, ie veggies, lean meats, you know waist friendly, but, to be honest, my favorite is a place rather than a topping—nothing better than Grotto’s on the eastern shore of Delaware. They have the best boardwalk fries—malt vinegar is the appropriate condiment, ketchup? Ha!—the best gelato, and by far the best pizza ever. In fact, we’ve had family pick up a few pies on their way here, Grotto’s will cook them half-way for us, the fam travels six hours with them, we pop them in the oven and voila! We have dinner together. Too bad the fries don’t travel as well. 

Yum. Fries. What is one thing scientists should invent?

One more day of the week…still thinking of a name for it, but that day should not involve anything but sleeping. I think that was the original purpose of the weekend, but it seems we’ve forgotten…

It could be Remday… for REM sleep?... okay, they can’t all be gems.

People are trying to pack too much into the weekend. Yeah, we forgot it. Can you tie a cherry stem in a knot?

Yes I can. ;) Nuff said…

Yup… absolutely… nothing else must be said… except you know I want to…

How many fingers am I holding up?

Fourteen.

Shoot…

Awww she guessed it. And now for the readers, do you want to know just a little bit more about Lila Munro? Here you go!
Lila Munro currently resides on the coast of North Carolina. She’s a military wife and takes much of her inspiration for her heroes from the marines she’s lived around for the past fifteen years. Coining the term realmantica, she strives to produce quality romance in a realistic setting. Her genre of choice is contemporary romance that spans everything from the sensual to BDSM and ménage. When she’s not writing, she enjoys reading everything she can get her hands on, trips to the museum and aquarium, taking field research trips, and soaking up the sun on the nearby beaches. Her works include The Executive Officer’s Wife, Bound By Trust, Destiny’s Fire, A Slower Lower Love, A Slower Lower Life, Salvation, Force Recon: Beacon Bayou, Force Recon: Somalia, True Identity and Identity Crisis. She’s a member in good standing of RWA and Passionate Ink. Currently she’s working on sequels to several series to be released throughout 2011-12. Ms. Munro also works as the VP of Business Affairs for Rebel Ink Press. She loves to hear from her readers and can be contacted via her website http://lilamunro.weebly.com or through Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/Lila_Munro You can also contact her via email at lilasromance@gmail.com For more information about Rebel Ink Press please visit their website at www.rebelinkpress.com

Purchase Link for Three for Keeps:

http://www.allromanceebooks.com/storeSearch.html?searchBy=publisher&qString=rebel+ink+press&searchBy=publisher&qString=rebel+ink+press

Our hottie for today is none other than Parks and Recreations... Adam Scott.

courtesy of: http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0004395/bio

He is a graduate of the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. Is good friends with actor Paul Rudd.

(2010 quote on his career) I'm still in the guest-star mentality, where I'm just grateful. Like, on the Parks And Rec set, I still feel like I'm a guest star. Being a fan of the show, it's really surreal to be on the set and see that it's not real, and getting to know the actors and they're not their characters. I'm still kind of in that mindset, most of the time.

(2008 quote on his career approach) I really just take it role by role, and I don't really have a specific idea of what I want to play. I just read stuff and figure out what I might enjoy doing. If they're interested in me and things line up...you just hope it all lines up.

Monday Author Interview with Candace Blevins

I would like to welcome the fabulous Candace Blevins to the blog today. It would appear Kealie got lost along the way or ended up with the CBs somewhere else. All I can say is, I hope she’s having fun. Now Candace, grab a smooth drink, a hot CB to use for a lap and...

I'm here, I'm here!!! :::running through the door::: Seriously, the cranky one was grumpy and wanted to be loved on... then I had to push my hubby out of the way and feed the baby, lol. I'm so sorry I'm late! :::slipping out of heels and plopping down next to Megan::: There's my CB with a drink. Thank you so much for stopping in to hang out with us, let’s get this interview started. How much of the book is realistic?

My stories are fiction, but the BDSM scenes are realistic. I’ve been in the lifestyle a very long time, and was considered an edge player even before I met my husband a little over 15 years ago. We’ve been married 14 years, and with the trust you can build up over that period of time, I’ve a lot of experience to pull from when I construct a scene.

Hmmmm... love it! At least you have a handle on the situation, and know what you're talking about!

You have to write what you know. I’m glad you know about the lifestyle. That makes reading about the scenes more believable. When did you write your first book and how old were you?


I was around fourteen when I wrote my first book – on a Commodore 64, backed up on cassette tape. I gave it the super-imaginative title of “How to Learn to Juggle”. By the time I was fourteen I was juggling four balls, along with rings and clubs and a variety of other objects. I taught my dad to juggle, and several friends, which I assumed made me quite the expert.


I’ve never been able to juggle, so maybe you can teach me.

Sure you did! We both did... we do have children and families to run, lol.

What does your family think of your writing?

My mother thinks the words “butt” and “fart” are curse words and will stand up and leave the room if someone says either. She goes apoplectic over “ass”. She has no idea I write. My goal is to be open and non-judgmental with my own children, so they won’t need to keep important parts of their lives from me.

However, in my mom’s defense, she’s led a very sheltered life and is pretty naïve – she married my dad when they were both 18, and at 65 they are still together. I can’t imagine going my whole life and only having sex with one person. What if it was the best ever? You wouldn’t appreciate it; you’d have no way of knowing it was way better than most experience. And if it was horrible? You’d never have good sex. It seems to have worked for them, though. They began dating at fifteen, broke up for most of the summer they were sixteen, and have been together ever since.

Back to the question; my husband is very supportive. He’s not a fiction reader, if he’s reading something it’s likely to be a technical programming book. This means he doesn’t read my books, but he does ask me to either read him the scenes or email them to him (my choice). He’s also a good ear when I’m thinking through the basic storyline, so he has a good idea of the basics of each book.

It's difficult when you have to hide a fundamental part of yourself... but if anyone understands it's us here at The Menagerie! Why my DH is supportive, there are just some things he won't read... ever, lol.

The boys are very supportive of me as well. It’s nice to have that to fall back on when you need it. Even better when you don’t. The boys have read mine and I’ve emailed them to DH before. Quite an eye-opener. What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

I have a regular job during the day, so I write at night, once my kids are in bed. If I can start writing at 8:00, and keep at it until midnight, that’s four hours per night. I wake up at 6:30 in the morning, and six and a half hours is plenty of sleep for me these days. I also sometimes wake up early on the weekends, so I can get a few hours of writing in before the rest of the house is up. I often write in bed, with my laptop in my lap. If my husband is on his laptop, too, then the TV will be off. If he’s watching TV then I put on headphones and classical music. I can’t write to music with words, and after running various experiments, Bach seems to be my best background music.

My husband has claimed my Tuesday and Friday nights, so I’m usually otherwise occupied on those evenings. He’s pretty flexible with that, if I have something else to do on a Tuesday or Friday he’s good with switching days. It may not sound romantic to schedule playtime, but it works for us.

Must be nice. I write when I can get the time. Not often. Ask Kealie. We can’t coordinate writing time sometimes, to save our lives.

*SNORT* No kidding! It's like they KNOW when we want or need them to leave us alone, lol. Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?

I want to show what a responsible, loving, BDSM relationship can look like. I want submissive men and women to understand they have a say – they are giving away their power, and they get to define the boundaries of what they are willing to give up. I often have reviewers comment on the negotiations in my books, and I appreciate that. Negotiations are important, especially when you’re playing at the levels my characters engage.

Safe, sane and consensual... gotta live by it or you can damage someone. I love it that you step out there like not many others do to say, "Look, it may be intense, but you need to set the rules!"

I’m glad you do. A lot of people who read BDSM don’t always know what is truly involved. I appreciate you showing what a loving relationship is. Thanks! What is your heritage?

I’m mostly Irish, with a few ancestors being from Germany. My hair is brown, but in the summer it fades to red tones instead of blond. I also have that famous Irish temper, and a love of whiskey and potatoes. Odd, isn’t it, how much our genes can affect who we are?

HA, you're in good company here! Irish-German from a large, loud, rambunctious family... My Big Fat Irish Wedding was more appropriate, lol.

I’m an Irish-German mutt. I love me some taters, but we're not much into drinking. Odd. Are you a morning person or a night person?

A night person. Before kids, I didn’t do mornings at all. I wasn’t capable of forming sentences within thirty minutes of awaking; any communication was done through grunts and glares, I’m told. My kids are morning people, so I’ve had to adapt and learn to be happy and joyful with them in the mornings. It’s a useful skill to have, but I’m still a night person at heart.

Having a BFF/writing partner who lives a three hour time change span away makes one a night person. Unfortunately, it also makes me sometimes more of a night owl than I’d like. Shrug. Gotta do what you gotta do.

Yeah, yeah... I'm not moving there! IT SNOWS THERE! Sorry, I'm still sane... :-P What were you doing at midnight last night?

Chaperoning sixty kids, fourth graders, locked into a science museum for the night. Sounds like the definition of something a masochist would enjoy, right? My husband and I both chaperoned though, and we both enjoyed it. Well, until around four this morning, when they kids were still going strong and I was fading fast.

Ummm... wow... I think you should be nominated for sainthood... or at least given an award, lol.

Wow, you have way more patience than me. I was sleeping. And good thing I was. I’d probably have hurt someone this morning. Those grunts and growls? Yeah, that was me. What’s the strangest thing you’ve ever eaten?

I’m a vegetarian, so my strangest sounding food isn’t all that strange. In a restaurant in China I saw bamboo pith on the menu and tried it. (My husband’s response when I first commented on it was “I didn’t know bamboo did that.”)
It wasn’t all that strange tasting, and was surprisingly good. I learned once we were home it isn’t actually the pith of the bamboo plant, but a mushroom that grows on rotting bamboo. I’ve never seen it on a menu in the U.S, or in the Asian grocery stores we like to shop.

Huh... who knew!

I’m going to echo what your DH said. I didn’t know bamboo did that either. Although, I hate to say it. That sounds gross. I like plain ole pizza mushrooms. Do you like thunderstorms?

My answer before April of last year would have been an unqualified, “I love them.” However, after having very close calls with two tornadoes since April of last year, I now have to qualify that with, “Yes, as long as there are no tornado watches or warnings.”

One of our most memorable scenes happened in a remote vacation cabin in the mountains a few hours from home. There was storm raging while he flogged me on the screened in porch. We were in the mountains, and the sounds of the thunder reverberated back and forth between them. The energy of the storm became part of the scene. The flogging portion of the storm scene in Safeword: Matte is loosely built around that experience.


Mmmmmm.... sounds incredibly intriguing and mind-blowing! And thank you for sharing that with us!

Hey, at least you had fun and made it memorable. Thanks Candace. This has been a fun interview! Now for our readers. Do you want to know more about Safeword: Matte? Here you go!
Matte, pronounced mah-tay, is the word used in some forms of martial arts to stop a fight. It’s the Japanese word for stop or wait. Sam (short for Samantha) has made a hobby out of learning the various fighting disciplines, but she also happens to be a sexual submissive. What better safeword than matte?
Sam wants to find someone to submit to who she can’t beat in a fight. She’s tried to make it work with men from the scene who know nothing about fighting, but it doesn’t feel real to her – she needs someone who can truly control her. However, after dating from the fight scene and discovering not all guys like to spank their girlfriends, she’s decided to just back away from the whole dating thing for a while… until Fate decides to step in.
Warning: This title contains graphic language, consensual BDSM, bondage, and use of toys including crops, clamps, canes, and floggers.
Available here: http://www.excessica.com/books/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=6&products_id=538

What is the official word on Candace Blevins? Here you go!

Candace Blevins is a southern girl who loves to travel the world. She lives with her husband of 14 years and their two daughters.

When not working or driving kids all over the place she can be found reading, writing, meditating, or swimming.

Candace writes romance books about characters who happen to have some extreme kinks. Relationships can be difficult enough without throwing power exchange into the mix, and her books show characters who care enough about each other to fight to make the relationship work.

You can visit her on the web at candaceblevins.com and kinkyeverafter.com

Monday Author Interview with Lara Valentine

HA HA! I’m not late today. Wait… dangit, I am late today, stupid daylight savings time. Grrrr… Sorry, welcome Lara! So glad you could come hang out with us today. Megan’s got her drink, and I’m waiting on my sweet CB to bring me mine. Grab a drink and we’ll get started!

Meh. Daylight savings time goofed me all kinds of of up. No kidlets today? You got a break! We can chat all day. Speaking of chatting, I’d like to welcome our author interviewee today, Lara Valentine. Thanks for being here. Let’s get started. What inspired you to write your first book?

I have always wanted to write a book. When I was in school one of my ambitions was to be a best-selling author. But life happens, and I went down a different road. In college I pursued what I considered to be more practical degrees in business and ended up in the software development world. But I never forgot my ambition. Recent events made me realize that life was too short not to go after what you want. So in April of 2011, I started writing Plenty To Come.


Isn’t that how it always works, lol. And I have to agree, life is definitely too short. You have to grab it with both hands and enjoy it.

Especially when you think you can’t do something, that’s when you really should. Hint, hint, Kealie. So yeah, you have to just do it. What is your favorite character you’ve written (published or not)? Why?

My favorite character so far is Jillian Miller. She is the best friend of the female heroine in Plenty To Come. She is extremely supportive, and very down to earth. In fact, I liked her so much I am working on her story right now. She needs love and a happily ever after.

You have got to love it when a secondary character waltzes onto the stage of your imagination and steals the scene! I’m a huge fan of secondary characters getting their own HEAs.

I love when the secondary characters demand. You get to take the story where you never expected to take it. I ended up with a whole series that way. What are your current projects?

Currently I am working on Plenty to Learn which is Jillian’s story in the Plenty, FL series. I am also finishing up the first book in a new series called The Chocolate and Martinis Book Club. It’s about five women who meet once a week and read erotic romance. Each one of them is going to find their own hot story in this series. Of course, with a happily ever after.

Sounds like fun! And seriously… who can live without a happily ever after?

Who can live without chocolate? Can you share a little of your current work with us?

Cassie Ames needs a new start in her life. She and best friend Jillian Miller leave their jobs and friends in icy Illinois for a new life in a small town in central Florida. The town believes in menageamous relationships and soon she is being pursued by handsome brothers Zach and Chase Harper. Unfortunately, her past catches up with her and her men and the whole town have to work together to keep Cassie safe.

Hmmm… “menageamous” huh? Has a rather nice ring to it, lol.

Sounds intriguing. What was the hardest part of writing your book?

I learned that starting a book was actually pretty easy. Finishing it is a whole other thing. The weekend I finally wrote The End, I really had to push myself to finish it.

I can definitely relate… shhhhhh, Megan, I know!

I said nothing. Besides, I know how hard it can be. And the shorter ones are the harder ones, I swear. Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?

I want to say thank you! It is still unbelievable to me that people read something that I have written. I feel very blessed.

That’s always lovely to hear. Sometimes, I’m somehow expecting people to say, “Yeah, knew you’d like my stuff!” LOL, sorry… ahem…

Authors do have to have thick skins and large egos, but then again, it’s kinda cool when someone says they loved what you wrote. What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

I have a day job and I am also a mother of a young son so I don’t have tons of free time. Organization is key for me. Once I get an outline, I try to write for at least 45 minutes each week night and a couple of hours on Saturday and Sunday.

*snort* Yeah, being a mom of a few little men and a teeny new one, I can seriously relate to not having tons of free time… wait, what exactly is free time again?

You don’t have free time. Just sayin. Being the mommy to a totlet, as well as two cats and two dogs makes my life... chaotic? Yeah. I’d love to be able to time manage that much. Doesn’t happen. What do you like to do when you're not writing?

I enjoy cooking, reading, and scrapbooking. As a family, we enjoy visiting Disney whenever we can.

Hey, we have some stuff in common! I enjoy eating, reading and card making… throw in jewelry making and dancing for some spice, lol.

I guess I’m the oddball. I like to read, I like to eat and I shouldn’t as much as I do, but I love me some racin’! What do you think makes a good story?

Great characters make a great story. You can have the best plot in the world, but if no one cares about the characters, the story is going to fall flat.

Amen, sistah!

Yup. If the characters aren’t characters, then shut it down. As a child, what did you want to do when you grew up?

I dreamed of being a rock star. When I drive my car, I truly am a rock star. Anyone driving next to me will see me rocking and singing as I sit in rush hour traffic.

Hahaha… too funny! I love singing and realizing the person next to me is singing the same song I am. That makes it a duet! Maybe one day, we’ll be doing a duet and not even know it, Lara!

And now, it’s time for our, “Wait a minute… how is this about writing?” questions!

There’s nothing wrong with singing to the steering wheel. I think Nickelback used that in a song. But yessir, it’s time for those questions that make you think and wonder. Plus, they are fun! Boxers, briefs, boxerbriefs…. Or commando? Why?

Boxers, baby. Not sure why. I just love a great body in boxers, especially flannel. Who doesn’t want to run their hands over flannel boxers?

LOL, I can see that… they are so soft, and when you compare that to a hard body underneath… whew… is it hot in here?

Plus you get that nice mystery to it. You don’t know exactly what’s under there and you get to guess. Yum!What were you doing at midnight last night?

Sleeping! If I don’t get at least 7 hours, you really don’t want to deal with me.

*snort* Seven hours would be soooooo nice! :::eyes glaze over in jealousy:::

Seven straight hours would be nice. What’s a saying you use a lot? Where did it originate from ?

Not sure where it originated from but here it is: “When all is said and done, a lot more is said than done.”

hahahahahaha! So true!

Better than the ones we use. Ahem. Just sayin’. Have you ever cried during a movie? If yes, which one and why?

Every single, damn time I watch The Way We Were I cry. I know what’s coming and cannot help myself. It’s heartbreaking that they didn’t get their happily ever after.

Oooohhhh… Robert Redford! Yeah, that ending sucks big green monkey weenie! What? It does!

It does, but putting it that way is interesting. What is one thing scientists should invent?

Exercise in pill form.

Hmmm… but then you’d have to remember to take the pills… and it would STILL be a chore. I’ll stick with my dancing and pilates, thanks. :-D

Snort. Pilates proves I have no balance. What stereotype would you label yourself as?

I am your typical control freak. I like to make the vacation plans, dinner reservations, control the thermostat and the remote control.

Hmmm… we don’t know anyone like that!

Nope. Don’t know anyone like that at all. Do you like thunderstorms?

I live in Florida and we have some really amazingly beautiful thunder and lightning storms. So yes, I like them as long as we don’t lose power. (That’s the control freak part coming out in me).

I don’t think any of us like to be without electricity… ask Megan, we both get a bit twitchy if we’re out of contact for too long, lol.

That’s putting it mildly. But when you share a brain, it happens. If you could wish for anything, what would you wish for?

Health and happiness for my son.

That’s always a good one! Great, now I have that Rascal Flatts song in my head… “My wish for you… your dreams stay big, your worries stay small and you never have to carry more than you can hold.” *sigh* Sorry, now it’s stuck in your head! And on that note… here's the latest from Lara Valentine!




[Ménage Amour: Erotic Ménage a Trois Romance, M/F/M, spanking, sex toys, HEA]

Giving up on the big city, Cassie moves to the tiny town of Plenty, Florida. Falling in love with Zachary and Chase Harper was easy. They ignite a fire inside her hotter and brighter than the Florida sun.

Intense and dominating Zachary Harper and his brother, charming and playful Chase, are tired of casual relationships and one-night stands. They’re looking for a woman they can share their life with, together. When they meet Cassie, they immediately feel that this woman just might be the one. Cassie is just as drawn to them, feeling safe and loved in their strong arms.

But not everyone is glad about Cassie’s newfound safety and happiness. Can Zachary and Chase keep Cassie safe when her past shows up and wants her dead?

Note: There is no sexual relationship or touching for titillation between or among siblings.

Available here: http://www.bookstrand.com/plenty-to-come

Here's a little bit about Lara!

I've been a dreamer my entire life. So, it was only natural to start writing down some of those stories that I have been dreaming about.

Being the hopeless romantic that I am, I fall in love with all of my characters. They are perfectly imperfect with the hopes, dreams, desires, and flaws that we all have. I want them to overcome obstacles and fear to get to their happily ever after. We all should. Everyone deserves their very own sexy, happily ever after.

I grew up in the cold, but beautiful plains of Illinois. I now live in Central Florida with my handsome husband - who's a real, native Floridian - and my son whom I have dubbed "Louis the Sun King." They claim to be supportive of all the time I spend on my laptop, but they may simply be resigned to my need to write stories.

When I am not working at my conservative day job or writing furiously at my laptop, I enjoy relaxing with my family or curling up with a good book.

I love hearing from readers! Here's my site:
http://www.laravalentine.net/index.html

You can email me at: laravalentineauthor@gmail.com

Rock On... Or Country On?

I'm here, I'm here! I know, Tuesday is my usual day, but Megan and I thought we'd hang out here together today... much easier to head out on the town from one place, don'tcha think? I haven't seen her yet, so I guess it's just me and the CBs for now... ;-P

I seriously had a hard time thinking of anything to talk about today. What do you mean you can't believe that? I am so mild-mannered, and quiet and... yeah, sorry, even I don't believe that one, lol.

Okay, in all seriousness... I know it's something I talk about a lot, but I love music. Lots and lots of music. I'm not like one friend who has more albums than he can really count, but I do have a lot of music. I have everything from Classical and Opera to Goth Metal and Harder rock with a little Country and even some Musicals soundtracks thrown in there too. Not a day goes by that I'm not found humming or singing something I heard, or even found with headphones on while I do chores. Even my writing is influenced by music... heck MEGAN'S writing is influenced by music I hear, lol. There have been times I've called her after hearing a song and asked her how come her characters were in my head telling me they like that song.

While I am a visual writer (I just love me some inspiration posted in front of me when I write... or just for the hell of it, but hey... can you blame me?), I do have stories inspired by songs I hear... Heck, I have an entire series of stories inspired by several bands I love and the music they make. I even have playlists on my iPod that are labeled with specific names of stories I am working on. It might come from having danced my whole life... who knows. All I do know is that music is integral to my life more than just dancing or liking music. Below is a song that has been the inspiration, and that I listen to all the time.



I know, I know, it's kind of a silly video, but the song is what I'm rockin', lol. So, how 'bout you? What does music mean to you? Annoyance or essential? What's rockin' your MP3 player? I'd love to know... I'm always lookin' for new music! Until next time... Rock on! :-D

Fun Friday Silliness with Kealie

I had to share this clip with y'all. Nothing sexy about it, but it makes me laugh. Especially Patrick Dempsey's side comments as they go through it, "Wait, he knows the song too?" And you know you want to get up and dance with her too! Those of you who know me, know I totally would be in the middle of this! Enjoy:

Wait, Who's That Girl Again?

Hey all, I know I've been gone a long time... sort of. I pop in now and then for interviews and hotties with Megan, but for the most part I have been seriously incommunicado. Some of you are most likely thinking, "Kealie? Who's this Kealie person?" I know, I didn't call, I didn't write (in more ways than one)... but I have very good reasons. Can you guess what they might be? I'll give a hint:



Yup, that's right, there's a new addition to the Shay household. It wasn't an easy time of it, and there were more important things than keeping up online. Yeah, don't worry, you're not the only people I forgot to keep up with... Just ask, Megan, Mysti, and JennyKat. Add more complications after the fact, some scary "We came this close to losing you!" comments and I had to take a few steps back and try to get better before I could be my bad self again. Since I'm feeling more like myself again, and am somehow managing to find at least a few hours in the day for myself, I'm back!



So, hopefully, now that I can think again, and my characters have decided that I've had enough of a break, my mind and muse are going crazy telling me I'm on notice and need to get some of this stuff I had to put off for a bit DONE! So, that's the plan.



I've missed being here, I've missed my girls, I've seriously missed the Cabana Boys (who are now the best looking babysitters in the world!), so here's keeping my fingers crossed that nothing else gets thrown at me... cuz I think I'm done for the year. :::nods:::