Isaiah's Haven Available Today and Guest Blogging

I'm thrilled to announce that Isaiah's Haven is available today from Samhain Publishing. This is the second book in my Legacy werewolf series.

BLURB:

Love comes howling when—and where—you least expect it.

Legacy, Book 2

Isaiah Striker puts family first, the pack a distant second. Which is precisely the reason he’s in noisy, crowded Chicago instead of alone in his beloved woods. One look at the owner of Haven nightclub, however, and a simple favor for his brother turns into something else entirely.

Meredith Cross holds her small pack together with sheer determination. After years on the run, they hide in the glare of the city’s nightlife. Isaiah may heat her blood, but she can’t afford to risk the lives of the outcast half-breeds in her care. Once exposed, every bounty hunter and werewolf purist in smelling distance will hunt them down.

But when their sexual attraction spirals out of control, a moment’s distraction is all it takes to lead danger right to Meredith’s door. For Meredith there’s only one choice: her pack.

But Isaiah knows his mate when he sees her. And he’s not giving up without a fight.

Product Warnings: This book contains hot sex, a jazzy nightclub, sexy werewolves, rogue werewolves, nasty bounty hunters, a mysterious vampire, and did I mention hot sex?

I'm also over at Melissa Schroeder's Blog today as part of her Summer of Love promotion. Comment on the blog post for a chance to win a download of Isaiah's Haven.

Featured Author for the Month of August

I'm one of the Featured Authors over at The Romance Studio for the month of August. I'm talking about my new Samhain release, Isaiah's Haven and about the Legacy series.

Be sure to check it out!

August Newsletter Now Available!

The August issue of Awakening Desires—the Newsletter of Romance Author N.J. Walters—is now available! Be sure and check out all the latest news, an excerpt from my upcoming release and more.

As always, you can find my husband’s popular column: Confessions of a Romance Author’s Husband.

As well, some lucky newsletter subscriber wins a prize. All you have to do to be eligible to win is go to Awakening Desires Newsletter and join. While you’re there, you can check out back issues of the newsletter.

Interview and Giveaway!

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I'm part of the Bitten By Paranormal Romance 7 Days of Summer Erotica Heat!

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Stop by and check out my interview. Be sure to comment on the post for a chance to win. :)

Need Your Vote

My latest Ellora's Cave book, Lassiong Lara is up for the Book of the Month over at Happily Ever After Reviews. If you enjoyed my book, I'd really appreciate your vote.

VOTE NOW!

Is There an App for That?

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These days there's an app for everything! You can check the scores of the game, get the temperature, find out the phase of the moon, see what movies are playing a the local theatre, all with just a few touches on the ipod touch. Incredible!

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Just think, only a few years ago no one knew what an app was. The computer world is changing, not only our world, but our vocabulary at a swift rate. It's fascinating and scary at the same time.

Now if there was only an app to get me back on track...

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Good morning and welcome to Tuesday! I've been in and out of the edits cave--again--and am back to work writing.

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I feel a little like the cat in the picture...flat. Due to edits and such, I've worked on about five or six different books in the past month. It's left me feeling a little off with my latest WIP.

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Hopefully, I can pick up some steam and get some good writing done in the next few weeks!

Entwined Hearts Cover

Here's the fabulous cover for Entwined Hearts, the final book in the Hearts of Fire series. No release date yet. But I'll let you know as soon as I get one.

BLURB:


Entwined Hearts
Ciana Stone, N.J. Walters, Nicole Austin, and T.J. Michaels

Hearts of Fire series book five

The Chosen—eight strong individuals gifted with unique paranormal abilities and tasked with protecting shards of an ancient crystal—the Heart of Fire.

Brought together by destiny, each couple has managed to bond and fuse their crystal pairs through a hot and intense sexual joining. The four couples have overcome great personal challenges and remained apart, preparing to face an ancient evil once again.

Now the time has come for the eight Chosen to join forces and defeat Asmodeus, Prince of Hell, once and for all. Their plan is clear yet complex—activate a hidden energy network, gather on spiritual lands and fight an epic battle between good and evil that will impact mankind for eternity.

Of course, nothing ever goes as planned and Asmodeus has some tricks the Chosen never anticipated.

In Need of a Change

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Life is always interesting, but sometimes you need a change in perspective. Or sometimes you just need to make some changes. For me, that time has come. I need to start getting some more exercise. Working at a computer is not exactly a physically strenuous activity. I need to start getting out and walking and doing some other exercises.

What do all of you do to keep active?

Exciting News!

I just signed a contract and have a story coming out in the anthology, The Mammoth Book of Hot Romance, tentatively scheduled to be released spring 2011. I'm very excited to be involved in this project and can't wait for the book to be released. My story is entitled, "Blind Date" and that's all I can tell you about it right now.

Working for the weekend...NOT!

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This is me this weekend. Hard work...I don't think so. :)

Ideas...

Some days you wish it was this easy.

Back to writing for me today!

Tons of New Reviews!

I had a ton of new reviews while I was away on holiday so I thought I'd share them with you. The first one is actually a review for the entire Project Alpha series.

"This is a gritty series, but the passion between each set of lovers is intense...I’m a sucker for a heroine who lifts her chin and puts one foot in front of the other despite being ravaged by heartbreak and the overwhelming sense of being alone and unloved. N.J. Walters does this really well and that ending gives Embracing Silence 5 Valentines.

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Sweet Charity with it’s gripping battle and the answers to so many questions raised in the first two books comes in next with 4.75 Valentines.

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Have Mercy may only rate 4.5 Valentines, but it’s still an amazing story, sexy and incredibly sweet.

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The series as a whole rates a 5 from me. If you like sci fi rom, you should read these."

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You can read the entire review over at Lex Valentine's Blog.

The next three reviews are for Seeking Charlotte. The first is a 4 Star review that comes from L.T. Blue over at JERR.

"The first two stories were definitely not needed to tell Creed and Charlotte's story itself, though. Creed and Charlotte's story is filled with sexual heat that quickly nights up the sky. They are virtual strangers but can't keep their hands to themselves as their sexual connection feels exactly right. There isn't a lot of foreplay or toys involved, just hot, sweaty, steamy I can't wait to get out of the car sex that gets even better when they find a bed."

The second is a 4 1/2 Siren Stone review from Brigit at Siren Book Reviews. Here's a snippet of what she had to say:

"A phenomenal concept, brilliantly written with well-developed characters and steamy love scenes. That is what you get with Seeking Charlotte by N. J. Walters."

Read the entire review at Siren Stone Reviews.

Judith at the Book Binge gave Seeking Charlotte 4 out of 5 and said: "This book has all the main ingredients of a very good love story along with fantasy and demonic warfare and the power of love and good to triumph over evil. And in the final analysis, that is the essence of a truly good romance."

Read the entire review at Book Binge.



Lassoing Lara also received 5 Tea Cups and a RECOMMENDED READ from HEA Reviews. Here's a snippet of what reviewer, LynnMarie, had to say:

N.J. Walters has a way with words. Her characters were unique and believable. She crafts her sex scenes with the perfect mix of emotion, action and description. Though this was an erotic romance, it was so much more than a roll in bed. Brody and Lara were characters I won’t soon forget and their quick love story was touching and powerful. If you like sexy, alpha cowboys and head strong heroines that are real enough to get hurt, you must read Lassoing Lara. The perfect title to accompany the perfect little erotic, western romance."

Read the entire review at Happily Ever After Reviews.

And last, but certainly not least, Chris over at Night Owl Reviews gave Tempting Tori a 4 1/2 stars Night Owl Reviews TOP PICK.

"A guilty pleasure that I thoroughly enjoyed and will read again, it was that satisfying. Very sensual and erotic, with a hint of dark passions and desires both J.T. and Victoria kept hidden from one another and themselves. A keeper."

Read the entire review at Night Owl Romance Reviews.

Holiday Photos

Thought I'd share a few holiday pictures with you! This first picture is the view from behind the cabin we stayed at for two days. There is a very steep path that leads right down to a sandy beach where we spent one lovely afternoon!










Here I am on another beach. I couldn't resist writing in the sand. I'm a big kid at heart. :)












This is the same beach as the one above. We found a perfect sand dollar lying on the beach. A souvenir of our trip.











I'm standing on an old bridge. My family used to own a cabin in this area when I was a kid. I spent many happy hours during my teenage years in this small community. It was weird to go back and see how much it's changed in the past twenty years. All the people I knew there are gone and it's filled with new families. I'm also wearing my new plaid coat I had to buy while on holiday because it got so cold!








Here's me on a lookout around a pond. There's a boardwalk that goes all around the pond. It's a bit of a hike, but it was absolutely beautiful.

I'm Back!

I'm back from my mini holiday. The weather started out terrible. Had lots of rain and had to run into a Walmart near where we were staying and buy a fall jacket. I made the mistake of believing the weatherman and only took a fleece hoodie with me. Needless to say, when the temperature dipped down to around 42 degrees Farenheit, I needed something a little heavier. On the postive side, I did find a lined plaid coat in the men's department that I liked. *g*

The weather improved when we checked into a cabin for two days and we did end up getting a full day enjoying the local beaches, which is always fun. Found a local restaurant that served what might be the best fish and chips I've ever had. It was yummy! (I'm a vegetarian, but I do indulge in some fish on occasion.) All in all, it was nice to get away from the computer and telephone for a few days.

Hopefully, I'll have some pictures to share in the next day or so. :-)

As for news...I just found out that the next installment in my Shadow Ryders series, Out of Shadows, is releasing from Ellora's Cave on August 20th! That's two new books coming out in August. It's going to be a busy month!

Hope you all had a wonderful week while I was away.

Gone Fishing!

Okay, I'm not really gone fishing, but I am away for a couple of days. Check in with you when I get back. Hopefully, I'll have some pictures to share...that is if it doesn't rain the entire time.

Happy 4th of July!

Happy 4th of July to all the Americans out there. I hope you all have a safe and fun holiday weekend with family and friends!

Guest Blog!

I'm guest blogging over at Kat's Blog today. Stop by and check out my interview.

Lassoing Lara Available Today!

Lassoing Lara is available today from Ellora's Cave Publishing. This is the second Quickie about one of the Courage brothers from Texas. The first one is Tempting Tori. The third and final one is in the works.




BLURB:

Brody Courage wakes up after a night out with his brothers and finds himself naked and tied to his bed with no idea how he’s gotten there. Just when he thinks he’s going to have to rip apart the headboard to get himself loose, he hears someone entering the house. He thinks it’s one of his brothers and calls out for help, but it’s Lara Jacobs, his childhood friend and neighbor.

He’s humiliated to have to ask her help and swears her to secrecy. She’s quiet and pale and leaves after releasing only one arm. When Brody finally gets himself out of bed, he finds a pair of red lace panties stuck near the footboard—a perfect match for the red bra he’d glimpsed Lara wearing when she bent over to untie him. It’s then his memories of the night before start to flood back. He spent one hell of a night in bed with his neighbor.

Now he wants another. One he can remember. But there’s the little problem of Lara avoiding him…

Reviewer Top Pick for Tempting Tori

I'm thrilled that Tempting Tori has just received a 4.5/5 Reviewer Top Pick from Night Owl Romance.

This is especially timely since Lassoing Lara, the next book about the Courage brothers from Texas is releasing tomorrow!

Here's a snippet of what reviewer, Chris, had to say:

"A guilty pleasure that I thoroughly enjoyed and will read again, it was that satisfying. Very sensual and erotic, with a hint of dark passions and desires both J.T. and Victoria kept hidden from one another and themselves. A keeper."

Read the entire review at Night Owl Romance.

Happy Canada Day!

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Happy Canada Day to you all! I hope you all have a safe and fun day with family and friends!

It's All In The Way You Look At It!

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Writing is such a strange profession. A writer gets paid to make up stories or to retell old ones with a twist.

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I know several writers have used the Little Red Riding Hood theme to great effect--Little Red and the Wolf by Anison Paige and The Howl and the Pussycat by Ann Cory spring to mind.

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And, of course, there is the wolf shapeshifter theme where the wolf can be bad, but he can also be very, very good too. *g* Tall, dark and sexy.

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I've been writing a lot of wolves this year and my next werewolf book is Isaiah's Haven, which is releasing on August 3rd from Samhain Publishing. I almost have book 3 ready to submit.

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Fortunately, my heroine doesn't have a red hood or a bazooka, but she can kick some butt when needed.

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Have a great Wednesday!

Monday, Monday!

see more Lolcats and funny pictures

This is what last week felt like...moving as fast as I could, but getting nowhere. Hopefully, I'll make more progress this week. You know what they say...slow and steady wins the race.

Have a great Monday!

How to spend a Saturday

1. Wake up at about half past six with the sun shining through the window. Blink in disbelief that it's actually the sun.
2. Go out to breakfast with hubby.
3. Hit Walmart and end up buying nothing...which should be impossible.
4. Drive around looking for yard sales in search of cool treasures.
5. Stop at the bookstore on the way home.
6. Have a healthy lunch followed by a large chocolate chip cookie.
7. Answer emails and check Yahoo groups.
8. Clean bedroom window.
9. Blog.
10. Clean office and kitchen windows.
11. Go for walk or have a nap...whichever fits at the moment.
12. Figure out what to have for supper.
13. Watch a movie.

So far I'm up to #9. We'll see how I do with 10 thru 13. *g*

Have a great Saturday!

Stuff, stuff and more stuff

It's been hard to get any new writing done the past seven weeks or so. No, not hard, downright impossible. lol

Is it writer's block? Nope. It's me being busy with other aspects of writing. Being a published author is more than just sitting at the computer every day putting new words down on paper.
There are edits and rewrites and blurbs and promotion. And that's where I've been the past few weeks. Seems like just when I get ready to work on a new project something else pops up.

Some writers can juggle multiple projects at once. I can't. If I'm doing edits for a book, I'll put my head down and take the two or three days of nonstop work to get them done. If I'm rewriting a book, then I don't stop until it's finished. Not that I'm complaining. Having all this other stuff to do simply means I'm a working writer. :-)

I'm hoping to take the next six weeks or so and work on a new project. I need to get back to the actual writing. It's what makes this job the most fun one in the world.


CONTEST REMINDER:

I've got a contest up and running on my website. Just click on the contests page for details on how you can enter to win a download copy of my upcoming Ellora's Cave release, Lassoing Lara.

Summer Solstice

Today marks the first "official" day of summer--The Summer Solstice. It's the longest day of the year so use it wisely...have some fun!

Hubby and I went out this morning to welcome in the day. After breakfast at a local cafe, we drove to the ocean. The fog was rolling in over the water and the fog horn from a nearby lighthouse was wailing a warning in the distance. The seagulls were swooping and soaring, riding the wind currents.

Just at the exact moment of the Solstice (7:28 EDT) the sun broke through the clouds and fog. It was simply breathtaking. We sat there for a while and watched the fog roll out and back in again, a dance of the elements. Mother Nature put on quite the show this morning. The perfect way to start the day. I just wish we'd remembered to bring the camera.

I hope you have a wonderful Summer Solstice and a fantastice summer!

Happy Father's Day!

Happy Father's Day to everyone celebrating today!

Have a wonderful day!

Flashback Friday--Discovering Dani

Discovering Dani is actually the first book I ever wrote. It took me almost a decade to get it published, but it will always be a very special book for me. It's the first book in the Jamesville series, which got progressively steamier as the series went on. *g*

BLURB:

Book 1 of Jamesville

Dani O’Rourke has had the responsibility of raising her two brothers, Patrick and Shamus, since the death of their parents. As sole owner and operator of O’Rourke Cleaning Services, she is no stranger too hard work, but she is a beginner when it comes to men.

Burke is a very rich and successful businessman whose brush with death has made him question his priorities. He’s traveled to Jamesville for peace and quiet while he plans the rest of his life.

Their lives collide when Burke accuses her of breaking into his cabin to steal from him. Their attraction to each other is immediate, and after a series of misunderstandings he finds himself caught up in the lives of Dani and her brothers.

But can this gentle, giving woman get a man as hard and cynical as Burke to believe in the power of love? Or will Burke leave town without ever discovering the wonders of life with Dani?


Read an Excerpt

Purchase book

New Cover!!!!!

Check out the amazing cover for Isaiah's Haven. This is the second book in my "Legacy" series and will be releasing from Samhain Publishing on August 3rd!

BLURB:

For a werewolf, the pack is everything, but Isaiah Striker has always felt like an outsider. The only thing he cares about is his family, which is how he finds himself in the crowded city of Chicago doing a favor for his brother. What should be a fast job quickly turns into a life-changing event.

Meredith Cross has held her small pack together through sheer guts and determination. After years of running, she and her adult children now operate Haven, an eclectic nightclub. When Isaiah Striker walks into Haven, she is drawn to him immediately. But he is a werewolf, a threat to her small pack, which includes four half-breeds. Most wolves won’t accept half-breeds and she won’t risk her pack for anyone.

Their lives become more entwined as the sexual attraction between Isaiah and Meredith spirals out of control. When paranormal bounty hunters and purist werewolves threaten her pack, both she and Isaiah must overcome the constraints of their pasts if they hope to survive and have a future together.

Friday Fun!

Hubby and I woke up this morning to SUNSHINE flowing through the window. I wasn't quite certain what it was we were seeing at first because we've seen so little of it this spring. We decided to go out for breakfast and followed it up by a brisk 40 minute walk around the pond. Invigorating!

We both decided to take the day off. (Or as much as we can take the day off. lol) Hubby is currently on his netbook and I've checked all my mail, my yahoo groups, Facebook and now I'm blogging. I guess writers never truly take time off. Even over breakfast we were talking about upcoming projects and what we're working on.

We're going to the early movie today. I love the fact that the local theatre has movies starting just after lunch. It's always less crowded and cheaper than going at night. We're going to see the A Team. I remember watching the television series and this updated version looks like it will be a fun way to spend a couple of hours.

Have a wonderful Friday!

Contest Reminder!

To celebrate the upcoming release of my Ellora's Cave Quickie, Lassoing Lara, I'm holding a contest. Go to my website and click on my "contests" page for details on how you can enter for a chance to win.

5 Blue Ribbons for Seeking Charlotte

Romance Junkies has given Seeking Charlotte a 5 Blue Ribbon Review. Here's a snippet of what reviewer, Contessa, had to say:

"SEEKING CHARLOTTE grabbed me from the start and would not let me go until the climax ending. Between the scorching hot love scenes and the thrilling suspenseful twister, I was totally and completely captivated. My heart was pumping non-stop as I eagerly turned the pages one after another to discover just how the storyline would unfold...This is one story that you will not want to miss!"

You can read the entire review at Romance Junkies.

Sleepy Sunday!

Actually, it's been a sleepy weekend. I honestly haven't done much of anything.

Hubby and I went to see a movie on Friday. We took in Prince of Persia. Honestly, I had no expectations at all when we went in. But I have to say it was a decent popcorn movie. It's nonstop action with a bit of a story. Lots of chase scenes and great scenery. :-)

Yesterday we went out for breakfast, ran some errands and basically hung out together. We watched a baseball game, took a walk and watched a few episodes from Season 2 of Big Bang Theory. Love that show.

Today is much the same as yesterday. It rained this morning, but is clearing away. We might go out for a walk later. Have to see.

It's nice to have a weekend like this now and then. No expectations. Nothing that HAS to be done. Relaxing, reading, watching movies and hanging out. Life is good!

Hope you're enjoying your weekend.

Summer Fun!

It might not quite feel like summer here today, but I'm talking about Summer Fun over at The Romance Studio Blog today. Drop by and check it out!

New Contest and Edits!

To celebrate the upcoming release of my Ellora's Cave Quickie, Lassoing Lara, I'm holding a contest. Go to my website and click on my "contests" page for details on how you can enter for a chance to win.

I'm also in the edits cave working on edits for my next Legacy book, due out in August. I'm hoping to be finished by Friday. *fingers crossed*

Have a wonderful Tuesday!

June/July Newsletter Now Available!

If you’re not already receiving Awakening Desires—the Newsletter of Romance Author N.J. Walters—then you’re missing out on all the latest news, author interviews, excerpts and tons more!

The June/July 2010 issue is now available!

Be sure to check out my husband's popular column: Confessions of a Romance Author's Husband!

As well, some lucky newsletter subscriber wins a prize. This month's winner is Deena Churchill. Congratulations, Deena.

All you have to do to be eligible to win is to go to Awakening Desires Newsletter and join. While you’re there, you can check out back issues of the newsletter.

Week in Review!

It's been a busy week and will probably get a bit busier before the end of the month. I've been pushing hard to try to get several projects finished. My plan is to actually take a couple of months away from work this summer--probably June and July. I've been going nonstop since I published my first book back in October 2004. Now five and a half years later, I've published 43 ebooks and 21 print books. I also have five more books contracted. I need a bit of a break.

I've let my health slide these past few years. Not that I'm sick or anything. But I'm just not as healthy as I'd like to be. The great thing about working from home is that you work from home. lol The drawback is you're always working. Technically, I have more time to take care of myself, but it hasn't quite happened. I need to take some time and establish better habits.

Not that I won't be writing. *g* I don't think that's possible. But I won't be working on anything for a particular publisher. Instead, I'm going to let my imagination take me where it wants to go. Of course, I expect to get edits over the summer, so I may extend my time off to mid-August. Have to wait and see what happens.

BTW, there was a change in release date for my upcoming Ellora's Cave release. Lassoing Lara will now be released on July 2nd. That's a week earlier than I first thought. :-)

Enjoy the weekend. Keep safe and have fun!

Seeking Charlotte gets 4 1/2 Siren Stone Review!

Brigit over at Siren Book Reviews has given Seeking Charlotte a 4 1/2 Siren Stone Review. Here's a snippet of what she had to say:

"A phenomenal concept, brilliantly written with well-developed characters and steamy love scenes...I have not read the first two, but this book works well as a stand-alone, although now I will be picking up the first two, so that I can see what has happened before and I am waiting impatiently for Book 4."

Read the entire review at Siren Book Reviews.

Happy Victoria Day!

To all the Canadians out there, I hope you are enjoyed the May 24th Weekend!

Have fun and stay safe.

Samhain Spring Showers Promo

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I'm part of the Spring Showers promotion over at the Coffee Time Romance Forums this month. All May, Samhain authors have been posting excepts and giving away prizes. Check out the excerpts, post and be eligible to win!

I'm featuring an excerpt from Past Promises, from my Jamesville series. Be sure to check it out!

New Review!

The Romance Studio gave Embroidered Fantasies a 4 1/2 Hearts review! Here's a snippet of what reviewer, Lisa Freeman, had to say:

"N. J. Walters always delivers an exciting story with fantastic characters and a well developed plot...Embroidered Fantasies is heart-stopping erotic romance at its best! This is one you'll pull out to read when you want that ultimate feeling of love conquering all!"

To read the entire review, go to The Romance Studio.

Samhain Newsletter

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Samhain is starting a newsletter to keep you informed about all the latest news and new releases. Sign up for the Samhain Publishing Newsletter today!

New Audio Book!

Tempting Tori, my Ellora's Cave Quickie, is now available in Audio Book! I'm very excited. It's cool to hear someone reading your book...strange, but cool. *g*

BLURB:

Standing in the barn, looking out over his ranch, J.T. Courage knows there is nowhere else on earth he’d rather be. He has his brothers, a successful horse business and a new home on the land that’s belonged to his family for generations. The only thing missing is someone to share it all with. And he has just the woman in mind.

Victoria Abrams is leaving the man she loves. She can no longer pretend he will one day see her as more than a friend or housekeeper. But J.T. is not about to let the sexy woman who has tempted him for months with her lush body and beautiful face slip away without a fight.

Download a Sample!

TGIF!

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Good morning and welcome to Friday and the start of the weekend. It's snowing outside. Yes, the white stuff is gently falling from the sky and covering the ground. Thankfully, it's not supposed to stick around and should turn to rain later.

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And you wonder why I bought some sunflowers to cheer myself up?

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Thought I'd post a picture so you could see them. They're cheerful and look wonderful in the china pitcher I found in a thrift store a few years back. It's chipped and the inside is no longer sealed so I can't use it for food, but it's perfect as a vase. I loved the shape and pattern too much not to buy it.

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Have a wonderful weekend!

Rain and Blueberry Cake

It seems as though it's been raining for about 95% of the month of May. I've seen the sun for a few hours here and there, but it's basically been a cold, rainy month. Some days it seems as though spring will never really arrive.

That's why I bought some sunflowers last weekend. They're bright and cheerful and remind me that warmer days are ahead. They look good sitting on my kitchen table in a Mason jar.

I also decided to make a blueberry cake. I have some frozen berries--left over from last summer's crop frommy mother's yard--so I measured out enough for the recipe. It's a taste of summer, which I needed right about now.

Hopefully the weather will take a turn for the better soon and spring will finally arrive. The trees still have no leaves, but I'm hopeful. It wouldn't take much to make them spring forth. Soon...

Happy Mother's Day

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

Hope you're all having a fabulous Mother's Day. I'm planning on calling my mother later today. Hubby and I went out for breakfast this morning and they were giving out roses to all the women. I have mine sitting on my kitchen table next to the cheerful sunflowers I bought yesterday. :)

TGIF!

It's been a very busy week. I just signed two new contracts with Ellora's Cave. One is for Entwined Hearts--the final book in the Hearts of Fire series. This book is very different in that all of us (Ciana Stone, Nicole Austin, TJ Michaels and myself) wrote it together. It's not an anthology, but one book featuring the four couples from the first four books in the series. It was a challenge to write, but we had a blast doing it. And I love how it turned out.

I also signed a contract for Out of Shadows, the next book in the Shadow Ryders saga. This will be the third book I've written about my immortal shadow warriors. The first two are "Shadows Stir" in the Ellora's Cavemen: Dreams of the Oasis IV Anthology and Beyond Shadows. I love these warriors and are glad that readers do too.

No release date on either book yet. More information as it becomes available.

Have a wonderful Friday!

Two New Reviews for Embroidered Fantasies

Night Owl Reviews has given Embroidered Fantasies a 4.25 Review. Here's a snippet of what reviewer, Chris, had to say:

"This story was very touching and explored the oft-ignored possibility that a man too can be affected by abuse. And not to perpetuate the cycle...The emotion and devastation that the brothers display at times in the story almost brought me to tears, and a happy ending was a joy I fervently wished for them. Hot and spicy, this was a great addition to the series."

Read the entire review at Night Owl Reviews

Marc Holiday from JERR has also reviewed Embroidered Fantasies and gives it 4.5 Stars. Here's a snippet from that review:

"The sexual tension builds between the characters naturally and was both sexy and
touching. Every woman needs a hero, or two to fill her fantasies and these two certainly fit the bill. After reading Embroidered Fantasies, I will definitely be checking out the previous books in the Tapestry Series."

The Weather

It's the beginning of another week and I find myself thinking about the weather. Most of us don't pay too much attention to it. Oh, we gripe if it's raining and smile if it's sunny, we talk about it at line-ups in the grocery store and bank, but we go on about our daily lives and our business. That is until the weather gets extreme.

These past few months have been filled with reports of earthquakes, tsunamis and, more recently, flooding across parts of the United States. It's amazing how these kinds of events can make you thankful for a foggy, rainy day. After all, the fog will lift and the rain will stop, but the folks dealing with major weather will be picking up the pieces of their lives for days, weeks, months and possibly even years.

So today I'm giving thanks for the weather. It's cool, but sunny today. Tomorrow, if it rains as the forecast predicts, I'll give thanks for that too. I'm grateful not to be having to deal with the kind of destruction that many folks in the world are. My heart and prayers go out to them as they struggle to rebuild their lives.

May Day!

HAPPY MAY DAY!

Wow, I can hardly believe it's the first of May already. I can't really say it's spring here. It's trying, but I woke to see snow covering the ground this morning. It's all melted now, but it was quite the eye-opener. lol

No flowers here yet. Not really. Oh a few brave tulips have lifted their heads, but that's about it. Buds are threatening on the trees, but haven't made the final push yet. I can't wait until they finally bloom.

This morning, hubby and I went to a sale the local Fine Arts College has every year. They sell donated materials (wool, fabric, embroidery threads, etc... you name it, it's there), magazines, and seconds from students. They have the sale once a year and it was crowded.

I bought a few things. Got two baggies filled with wool tapestry skeins for two bucks each. Haven't decided what I'm going to do with them yet, but something will occur to me, I'm sure. Bought a hand-dyed/embroidered picture of a dragonfly for my sister. (She loves dragonflies.) Four craft magazines, some felted pieces of fabric, and a hard-carved wooden bowl rounded out my purchases. All for $20. You gotta love a sale. Plus, I'm supporting the local college so it's win/win situation.

I wonder where I'll go next weekend?

What are you doing this weekend?

Seeking Charlotte and a Guest Blog!

Seeking Charlotte is available today from Ellora's Cave. This paranormal/erotic romance can be read as a stand-alone book, but is also part of the Hearts of Fire series.

I'm also guest blogging over at Tracy Cooper-Posey's Blog today. Stop by and check it out and you might win a free download from my backlist. Winner's choice!
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If you love a hot bounty hunter, powerful crystals, demons and destiny, then this is the book for you!

Books 1 & 2, Memory's Eye and Shards of Ecstasy, are also available from Ellora's Cave.

BLURB:

Creed Lawson knows Charlotte Jones is trouble from the moment she presses her lithe body to his and kisses him. But that doesn’t stop him from taking what she’s offering—a night of hot, uninhibited sex. But Creed hasn’t bargained for the feelings she stirs in him, nor the talk of crystals, demons and destiny.

Charlotte is an empath. The ability to feel people’s emotions has made it difficult for her to lead a normal life. At eighteen she received one of the eight pieces of the Heart of Fire, a crystal that contains untold power. She was told there was a male who held the other half of her stone, as well as a demon that coveted all the pieces of the crystal.

The demon has finally found her. But she knows that Creed is the special man she’s been waiting for. Charlotte is facing the fight of her life. Will Creed fight beside her or walk away?

Read an excerpt

New Date for Audio Book!

My Ellora's Cave Quickie, Tempting Tori , will soon be available in Audio Book! Look for it on May 10th from Ellora's Cave.

BLURB:

Standing in the barn, looking out over his ranch, J.T. Courage knows there is nowhere else on earth he’d rather be. He has his brothers, a successful horse business and a new home on the land that’s belonged to his family for generations. The only thing missing is someone to share it all with. And he has just the woman in mind.

Victoria Abrams is leaving the man she loves. She can no longer pretend he will one day see her as more than a friend or housekeeper. But J.T. is not about to let the sexy woman who has tempted him for months with her lush body and beautiful face slip away without a fight.

Download a Free Sample

Interview with Creed Lawson and Charlotte Jones!

Want to know more about Seeking Charlotte before it's released from Ellora's Cave this coming Friday? Then go to TJ Michael's Blog and check out the interview with the hero and heroine--Creed Lawson and Charlotte Jones.

Earth Day

It's the 40th Anniversary of Earth Day. Today is a day to reflect on where we live and what we can do to help save this little blue planet we call home.

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We can all do our part. Change your light blubs from the traditional ones to energy saving ones. Use cloth bags for grocery shopping instead of plastic. Wash your clothes in cold water. Turn off the lights if your not in a room. Recycle, reuse, and think about what you buy before you buy it.

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This is our home. It's time we started taking better care of it. The future is in green jobs, green energy and using our resources wisely. Think about how much better off we'd all be if instead of plain green lawns, brought about by tons of chemicals, we planted organic gardens instead. We'd help feed our families and cut down on chemical use. Hey, it's not radical. My grandparents and their parents did just that because they didn't have a grocery store around the corner.

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We need to rediscover the best from the past and mix it with the best of the technology that exists today if we hope for our children and their children to still have a planet that can sustain them.

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So celebrate the beautiful world we live in today. It truly is a miracle!

Writer's Tips!

All month, Shelley Munro has been posting Writer's Tips on her blog. She's had some wonderful tips from a variety of authors.

Today it's my turn. Drop by Shelley Munro's Blog and check it out!

First Review for Embroidered Fantasies

Two-Lips Reviews gives Embroidered Fantasies 5 Kisses!

Here's a snippet of what reviewer, Tina, had to say:

"I really loved this one for its love story, the spark between the characters, and the completely swept away feeling I got from reading this novel. Ms. Walters does an amazing job of making the reader emotionally invested in these three, so much so, I didn’t want to let them go at the end."

You can read the entire review at TwoLips Reviews

Two New Contracts!

I just signed two new contracts with Samhain Publishing!

The first one is for the second book in my Legacy series. Yes, the werewolves are back! This one is titled, Isaiah's Haven, and is tentatively scheduled for August.

The second one is for the first book in a new "magickal" trilogy: Spells, Secrets and Seductions. A Touch of Magick is book one. This book is tentative scheduled for late fall.

I can't tell you all how excited I am about both these books. More details as they become available. :-)

Guest Blogging at TRS Blue!

One is nice, but two is better. *g*

I'm guest blogging over at The Romance Studio Blue Blog today and I'm taking about ménage a trois romances. Check it out!

TGIF!

I can hardly believe it's the 9th of April already. This month is really moving along, which means I need to get moving too. I'm planning on having my latest WIP finished by the end of the month. *fingers crossed*

I should hopefully have some good news to share next week. :-) I can't say anything for sure, but it might involve werewolves.

No plans for the weekend. I try to take Saturdays off from work, but Sunday I'll try to get some writing done. Don't know if that will work out or not. It's gotten harder to make myself work on the weekends these day.

Have a great weekend and I'll talk to you all on Monday!

Embrace the Shadows Guest Blog

I'm guest blogging over at the Embrace the Shadows Blog today. I'm answering some questions about writing and talking about some of my paranormal and futuristic romances.

Stop by and check it out!

Featured Author at TRS!

I'm a featured author over at The Romance Studio this month. I'm talking about my latest print release from Samhain Publishing--Jamesville Affairs. Check it out!

New Cover!

Check out the cover for my upcoming Ellora's Cave Quickie, Lassoing Lara. Some of you might recognize Brody as one of the other Courage brothers from my EC Quickie, Tempting Tori.

No release date yet, but I figured you might want a sneak peek at the blurb.


BLURB:

Brody Courage wakes one morning and finds himself naked and tied to his bed with no memory of the night before. If that’s not enough humiliation, his neighbor and childhood friend, Lara Jacobs is the one who rescues him.

When he finds a pair of red lace underwear, his memories start flooding back. He’d caught a glimpse of a matching bra when Lara untied him. She’s the sexy mystery woman who is now haunting his nights and his days. Brody wants a repeat of their night together, but Lara is avoiding him. There’s only one thing any self-respecting cowboy would do. He’s going to Lasso Lara and make her his own.

Happy Easter!

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend with family and friends!

New Issue of Awakening Desires!

If you’re not already receiving Awakening Desires—the Newsletter of Romance Author N.J. Walters—then you’re missing out on all the latest news, author interviews, excerpts and tons more!

The April/May 2010 issue is now available!

Check out the this month’s author interview with Tracy Cooper-Posey. As well, you'll find my husband's popular column: Confessions of a Romance Author's Husand, an excerpt, all the latest news and more!

As well, some lucky newsletter subscriber wins a prize. All you have to do to be eligible to win next month is to go to Awakening Desires Newsletter to join. While you’re there, you can check out back issues of the newsletter.

As March Comes to a Close

March has been a strange month. More of a take-one-step-forward-and-two-steps-back kinda month. I've found it much harder to get into my new book. Of course, there were a lot of interruptions too. I had several sets of edits and I am working on a book with three other authors that needed my attention. In spite of that, I am pleased that I am 33k into my latest WIP.

It's also signaled the end of the winter and the start of the spring. With that came the realization that I've put on a few pounds during the cold months. It's been tough to break those bad habits. But spring is coming and I'm hopeful. Once I can get outside walking more, exercising should be easier. It's a time of renewal of new beginnings.

I did have a new release this past month! I'm excited and thrilled about that. I also have several manuscripts off to editors. Maybe April is the month when I'll hear something and be able to share some good news. Or not.

Either way, it's shaping up to be a good month. The days are getting longer, the baseball season is starting and the weather is getting warmer. Life is good! I also have a new release from Ellora's Cave on April 30th--Seeking Charlotte. I really love bounty hunter Creed Lawson. *g* But that's for another day.

Come on, April. I'm more than ready!

Easter Egg Hunt!

I'm part of Long and Short Reviews Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt, which starts Monday, 3/29 and runs through Saturday, 4/3!

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The prize packages for this contest are absolutely amazing! There are a total of TEN packages between all three sites (LASR, Whipped Cream and Aurora) with hundreds of prizes worth hundreds of dollars.

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I'm giving away a download from my backlist--Winner's Choice--as part of one of the prize packages. (Prize Pack 3 in the Whipped Cream hunt.)

Embroidered Fantasies Available Today!

Embroidered Fantasies is available today from Ellora's Cave! I'm very excited about this book, if you couldn't already tell, and I'm looking forward to seeing what readers thing of it.

This is a story of redemption, of changing your life and making it something different, something better in spite of the odds. Both the heros and heroine have emotional scars from their pasts, but they're trying to move past those and make a better life.

BLURB:

Roxanne Sykes is a divorced waitress, trying to carve a life for herself after escaping an abusive marriage. Her quiet life is shattered when her ex-husband finds her. Before he can harm her, a magical tapestry whisks her away. She finds herself in a strange land, in the presence of a man straight from her erotic dreams.

Radnor Craddock’s life has been one of violence and brutality. He never expected the tapestry of Javara lore would bring a woman to him and his brother, Sednar. They only have three days to try to convince Roxanne to stay, and both use their considerable seductive skills to do so.

The erotic encounters are like nothing Roxanne has ever experienced. Yet she cannot trust her judgment. After all, she married a man who abused her. Then there are the dark hints and innuendoes of the Craddocks’ violent pasts. But when her ex-husband threatens her, Radnor and Sednar risk their lives to save her. Will she leave them? Or stay and claim these wounded warriors as her own?

Read an Excerpt

Purchase book

One Day Until Embroidered Fantasies!

Tomorrow Embroidered Fantasies is being released!

Today we look at Threads of Destiny, the fourth book in the Tapestries menage a trois/fantasy series. It's a bit different from the rest, but it had to be that way. Readers fell in love with Marc Garen in Christina's Tapestry. I've never had as much email about one character as I had about him. Readers demanded, uuuhhhh, I mean asked me for his story.

I took quite a while to think about this book and, when Kathryn popped into my head, I knew I'd found the perfect woman for him. Problem was, she already had two hot futuristic super soldiers by her side. But I love a challenge. :-)

This book led to the spin-off Project Alpha trilogy.

Threads of Destiny Blurb:


Marc Garen knows and understands the laws of his world. On Javara, women are scarce and brothers must share, although only one can be her husband. But he is lonely to the depths of his soul and longs for a woman of his own. Suddenly the tapestry hurls him into a violent world…to the woman who has haunted his dreams.

Kathryn is a scientist, fighting to save two genetically enhanced super soldiers from termination when the man of her fantasies appears and magically transports them all to safety. Now three men share Kathryn’s bed, all bent on satisfying her every desire. But Marc is resolved to make her his alone. He has three days to convince her…before the tapestry returns.

Reader Advisory: This book contains super-hot scenes involving four participants—three men and one woman.

Read an Excerpt

Purchase book

Two Days Until Embroidered Fantasies!

Only 2 days until Embroidered Fantasies is Released!

So, I've spent this week talking about the earlier books in the Tapestries series. Today is book 3, Woven Dreams. After writing Bakra Bride, I couldn't leave the younger Bakra brothers without telling their story.

Jarmon is probably one of the most emotionally and physically scarred heros I've ever written. But Garrik has a lot of issues to deal with as well. After all, he and Jarmon are twins.

Woven Dreams Blurb:

In Javara, women are scarce and brothers must share a woman, although only one can claim her as a wife. Scarred and maimed from a battle fought almost a year ago, Jarmon Bakra is afraid chances are slim that he and his twin brother, Garrik, will find a bride.

While on a hunting trip, the brothers stumble upon a woman claiming to be a tapestry bride. Now that fate has dropped a beautiful, courageous woman in their path, they will both use all their sexual skills separately and together to convince her to stay.

But Genny has secrets of her own and they have only three days to uncover the truth.


Read an Excerpt

Purchase book

Three Days to Embroidered Fantasies!

Only 3 more days until Embroidered Fantasies is released from Ellora's Cave!

Embroidered Fantasies is the fifth book in the Tapestries series, which began back in 2005 with Christina's Tapestry. Readers took to this book, loving it as much as I did, and asking for me. I've had so much fun writing these books. I thought I'd take a look back this week at the other books in the series.

While they're part of a series, each book can be read as a stand-alone novel.


Book 2 is BAKRA BRIDE!

BLURB:

Jane Smith has the perfect corporate job, a beautiful apartment and an understanding boyfriend. She works long hours, but enjoys her life. It all begins to unravel the moment she witnesses a murder. Now her former life has vanished and she is left to rebuild again.

Just when things seem to be taking a turn for the better, the thrift store tapestry that she'd impulsively purchased magically transports her to Javara, a world that resembles medieval Earth, and into the arms of the Bakra brothers.

Zaren Bakra is shocked to discover that the tapestry has delivered Jane to Bakra land—as the tapestry prophecy has already been fulfilled for this generation. Their world is strange to Jane, and her very presence ignites violence and death.

Now the two brothers will use all their sexual skills, separately and together, to convince Jane to stay in Javara and choose one of them for her husband. But the tapestry will reappear in just three days. Will Jane return to her own time and all that is familiar or will she become the Bakra bride?


Read an Excerpt

Purchase book

Coundown to Embroidered Fantasies

Only 4 more days until Embroidered Fantasies is released from Ellora's Cave! Can you tell I'm excited? LOL

This is book 5 of the Tapestries series, which began back in 2005 with Christina's Tapestry. Readers took to this book, loving it as much as I did, and asking for me. I've had so much fun writing these books.

I thought I'd take a look back this week at the other books in the series.


BLURB: Christina's Tapestry

Christina Beaumont impulsively buys an expensive tapestry that she sees in a shop window, having no idea how that one action will change her life. The magical tapestry not only transports her to Javara, a world that resembles medieval Earth, but also into the arms of two massive warriors who both want to claim her.

Jarek and Marc, Brothers of the House of Garen, are elated to discover the tapestry has delivered Christina to them. Women are scarce in their world, so the men of a family must compete for the right to be her husband. But before she can choose, Christina first has to experience the lovemaking of both brothers, separately and together. Jarek and Marc use all their considerable sexual skills to pleasure her in ways she's never imagined.

But the tapestry also offers another choice. Christina could return to her own world. Jarek and Marc join forces to convince Christina to stay with them even as they fight a rival family for the right to keep her as their very own.

Read an Excerpt

Purchase book

Welcome to Spring!

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Today is the Spring Equinox and marks the beginning of the new season. The days are getting longer and it won't be long before the daffodils are poking their heads out of the ground.

Welcome to Spring!

Spinning Wheel

The song "Spinning Wheel" by Blood, Sweat and Tears popped into my head this morning. I think it's because I feel like that's what I'm doing this week. I've had little time to write.

Instead, I've spent most of the week on other "stuff". Grant it, this other stuff--promotion, edits, family matters, etc...--all needs to be taken care of. But that doesn't make it any easier.

Now none of the other stuff is serious. (For which I am very thankful.) It simply has to be done. So, I've made a to-do list for the weekend. I'm hoping to get everything else out of the way so I can spend all next week working on my WIP. That and celebrating the release of my new book next Friday!

Until then, have a fabulous Friday and an even better weekend!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

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Happy St. Patrick's Day.

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I hope you all have a touch of the luck of the Irish today.

New Contract

Just signed a new contract with Ellora's Cave! It's for a new Quickie called Lassoing Lara. It's related to Tempting Tori. The hero from Tempting Tori, J. T. Courage, has two brothers--Brody and Marshall. Lassoing Lara is Brody's Book. I'm also working on a book for Marshall too.

Monday, Monday

Good morning and welcome to the beginning of another week. It's also the Ides of March, but I don't think I need to be worried about that.

March has been an incredibly busy month for me so far. I've done edits on two books, rewritten another and have been working on yet another book with three other authors. Not to mention my WIP. At this point, I have no idea who's who. LOL

I also have TWO new release dates! Embroidered Fantasies, book 5 of the Tapestries series, will be released by Ellora's Cave on March 26th. And Seeking Charlotte, part of the Hearts of Fire series, will be released by Ellora's Cave on April 30th!

Yesterday, I submitted my newest book to my editor at Samhain Pubishing. It's the next book in my Legacy werewolf book. Now I cross my fingers and the waiting begins. Wish me luck!

Today, I'm going to try to get back into my WIP. It's time to settle back into some normal writing days.

Have a great Monday.

Oh, and beware the Ides of March. :-)

New Contest

To celebrate the upcoming release of Embroidered Fantasies from Ellora's Cave Publishing on March 26th, I'm holding a contest and giving away a free download. Just go to my website and click on the "contests" page for details on how you can enter for a chance to win.

Read An Ebook Week!

March 7th to 13th is Read an Ebook Week. While once considered a fad, there is no doubt that ebooks are here to stay.

I'm blogging about that very topic over at The Ladies of the Club Blog today. Stop by and tell me what you think about ebooks.

The Post-Apocalyptic World

I'm blogging about the the trend of using post-apocalyptic earth as a setting for books, as well as my new Project Alpha series, over at Fallen Angel Reviews Blog today. Stop by and check it out!

Mark Your Calendar

Mark your calendar! I just found out that Embroidered Fantasies will be released by Ellora's Cave on March 26th! Click the link to check out the blurb and an excerpt.

Checking off my To-Do List

It's only Wednesday, but it's already been a busy week for me. I've been checking off items on my To-Do List.

1. I've updated my website, so check for all the latest news and my new Tapestries cover. It's HOT!

2. I ordered a bunch of new promo stuff--bookmarks, postcards and magnets. I can't wait to see what they look like.

3. I finished the first rewrite of my latest WIP and am currently printing it off for my reader to mark up with his red pen.

4. Wrote dreaded synopsis and blurb for said WIP.

5. Submitted new book to my other publisher. :-)

I feel like I've already got a week's work done. LOL Life is good.

Welcome to March!

There are still piles of snow everywhere, but according to the calendar it's only three weeks until spring. I'll admit, this winter hasn't been as bad as most. Maybe because the Olympic Games kept me distracted for more than half the month of February.

Either way, there are milder temperatures on the horizon and the promise of grass and daffodils in the near future. It's time to start thinking about the warmer days ahead.

Have a great day!