Nate, the strong ex-Marine who survived Afghanistan only to perish in a tragic accident, never stops loving Ella…even as a ghost.
Quote from “Trust,” book 2, Chasing Shadows Series.
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Summer Watermelon Salad
This combines my love of avocado with refreshing watermelon and some feta for a bit of protein. It’s fast, easy, presents itself beautifully, and I think that’s a recipe for a perfect dish.
Ingredients:
watermelon
avocado
feta
radish (optional)
red onion, chopped or sliced
mint, sliced or torn
chives, chopped
salt & black pepper
Simply cut the first four ingredients into small cubes, assemble them in a rectangular pattern, sprinkle the herbs and red onion on top, and throw on a dash of salt and pepper.
Perfect Adventure
There are a couple of universal truths. Adventures are never boring. Children have vivid imaginations. And, ask a child to imagine the perfect adventure, and I bet you’ll also nurture a future writer and reader.
As its summer, the kids are home and once in awhile, they do get bored. Imagine that! Today, my daughter asked why we don’t go on adventures. Being a writer, I immediately retorted, “Every day is an adventure for a writer!” She looked at me doubtfully, but when I asked if she wanted to work with me to create the perfect adventure, she readily agreed.
We sat down and took notes on the makings of a perfect adventure. It would have to involve a long walk in the heat through hills and valleys, naturally trudging through mud. Thankfully, this would take place in our minds, not reality.
Our perfect adventure would also involve meeting other people, or even talking animals or other-worldly creatures.
Finally, if this were truly the definitive “perfect” adventure, it would have to conclude with the discovery of some sort of baked goods. I’m telling you, my daughter’s taste in pastry is second to none! We decided on lemon bars or brownies as the ideal discovery.
And there we had it…the outline of our story, a child no longer bored, and me thankful for the opportunity to experience my daughter’s imagination.
Indie Author Love
I normally try to devote a post to one cover reveal or new release, but there are so many good ones right now that I wanted to highlight three fabulous indie authors and their latest, summer projects.
First up is Airicka Phoenix with “When Night Falls,” the first book in her new Regeneration Series. Every review on Amazon thus far is five stars, so I’m definitely picking this one up.
Next, one of my favorite indie books was “The Bet” by Rachel Van Dyken, now she’s back with “The Dare.” I can’t wait. Thirty…county them, 30 five star reviews!
Finally, a cover reveal by R.S. McCoy for “Spirits.”
This book is a follow-up to “Sparks,” which features the same intricately beautiful cover details.
Enjoy these summer picks and let me know what you’re reading right now.
#WordlessWednesday
“Trust,” Chasing Shadows Series book 2, finds Ella confused by her growing attraction to Ethan although she still grieves for Nate.
Feeling Bluesy? How to Beat Writers Block
I’m a pretty upbeat person and I’ve learned to count my blessings…my husband, my children, and working as a writer. But every writer has moments when the words don’t flow and life can get you down. When this occurs, it’s important to know how to pull yourself out of the blues. Here are my go-to methods for beating writers block and getting back on track.
1. Open the curtains and windows. Fresh air and sunlight just make everything a bit brighter.
2. Clean the kitchen. I know it sounds crazy, because who lives to grab the Windex? But, having a clean space does make us feel less cluttered and more productive. Why else would there be so many magazines, blogs and Pinterest boards dedicated to beautiful homes and comforting rooms?
3. Nourish my body. Food. It sounds simple, but it’s effective. If I’m hungry, no doubt a raging headache is on its way and who feels good when a bass drum is pounding between your eyeballs? I also love to cook and find that being creative in the kitchen is a great way to nurture creativity in my writing.
4. Nourish my soul. Food is for my body, but books are for my soul. When I’m not writing, I’m reading. I also love guilty pleasures on television that take me away to other times and let me meet interesting characters.
So, let’s analyze the above. For argument’s sake, let’s assume I got a terrible book review (it happens) and I’m in the dumps. Do I decide never to write again? No way! Although I do admit that I might need to take a day off so I’m going to open my curtains, smell the fresh air, clean my space so that I can prepare a yummy meal and eat it while reading a great book or escaping into my favorite television series. I’m willing to bet that by the time that episode of “Pretty Little Liars” is finished, I’m back on track and ready to write!
