At the AZ Dreamin' Reader's Conference, readers are given the opportunity to meet authors. There is "speed dating," during which the available authors visit each table of readers and talk about their books for two minutes. Readers are then given the opportunity meet up to 7 authors by signing up for 6 Book Clubs, no more than 10 people in each group, and Dinner, 8 at the table.
Before attending the conference, I visited the AZDRC website and checked out all the authors. I investigated the types of books they wrote, including reading samples, and made a list of the authors I wanted to meet, some I knew already and some new.
Book Clubs last 30 minutes. Some authors read portions of their book. Some play games, have quizzes, share audio portions of their books. They all share goodies with their fans. It's also an opportunity to have books signed.
I read "Greater Than Rubies" by Hallee Bridgeman (it ties book 1 and 2 together) and knew I wanted to meet her. She writes the Christian Romance novels I want to read! Yes, writers are fans, too.
http://www.amazon.com/Greater-Rubies-Christian-Romance-Jewel-ebook/dp/B00AV59ANM/ref=sr_1_6?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1401902554&sr=1-6&keywords=hallee+bridgeman+jewel+series
I chose Hallee as one of my Book Clubs as well as dinner. What a delightful experience!
For the book club, she and her husband provided a healthy bowl of fruit, coffee, and donut holes. Yummy! We talked as friends do, sharing experiences in writing and our journey to become better Christians. In attending her Book Club and dinner, I also met some wonderful people. It's a joy to walk into a room and know you already have something in common with everyone present, a love for some of the same books.
I bought the Jewel anthology and look forward to reading it, soon. I need more time.
Dinner offered the opportunity to become better acquainted. We shared a prayer before eating, something I usually do alone. We Readers asked questions and the Bridgemans answered and gave more. I was fed not only with delicious food but with fellowship.
What the Bridgemans didn't know: My family was going through a make it or break it time. Because of their faith and example, I was encouraged and strengthened to meet the tribulation waiting for me.
I enjoyed the entire weekend, but my time with the Bridgemans alone made it all worth it. I hope to see them again, next year. I will never look at Monopoly the same way. Read "Greater Than Rubies" and maybe you won't either.
http://www.halleethehomemaker.com/
Thursday, June 5, 2014
Wednesday, June 4, 2014
Hunted down on FB...
My heroes found me on FB, today...
Patrick: Cheer up, Brent.
Brent: Is she back, yet?
Leo: Our Lady returned a day or two ago.
Brent: Then it's true.
Richard: What truth is so horrible you bear the appearance of one who's lost his best friend?
Brent: She's forgotten me.
Ian: Rubbish.
Leo: She forgets no one.
Benjamin: Unfortunately.
Brent: Easy for you to say.
Benjamin: Do tell.
Brent: Your publish date is set and on schedule.
Leo: Preening is unseemly.
Benjamin: I am not preening.
Fitzgerald: You are, but it is not the concern of the moment.
Ian: Sorrows shared are halved, and all that.
Benjamin: I don't know why you're complaining. You'll be published before me.
Brent: I was supposed to be published last March. March!
Dusty: Life happens.
Jordan: A series of unfortunately events.
Richard: Best laid plans of mice and men.
Brent: Murphy's Law.
Fitzgerald: What is this Murphy's Law?
Leo: Ask Jack. He knows everything.
Jack: Anything that can go wrong will go wrong at the worst possible moment.
Jordan: O'Toole's Corollary declares Murphy was an optimist.
Brent: Not helping, guys.
Leo: Never give up hope.
Jack: Our Lady's world has undergone a number of upheavals, but it is settling.
Leo: Stand strong, gentleman.
Jack: Indeed. It's the least we may do.
Patrick: Buckle up, Buttercup. We're in for a bumpy ride.
Benjamin: Who is this Buttercup?
Jack: It's a figure of speech.
Benjamin: It's ridiculous.
Jack: It made you smile. It even made Brent smile.
Dusty: Mission accomplished.
Patrick: Cheer up, Brent.
Brent: Is she back, yet?
Leo: Our Lady returned a day or two ago.
Brent: Then it's true.
Richard: What truth is so horrible you bear the appearance of one who's lost his best friend?
Brent: She's forgotten me.
Ian: Rubbish.
Leo: She forgets no one.
Benjamin: Unfortunately.
Brent: Easy for you to say.
Benjamin: Do tell.
Brent: Your publish date is set and on schedule.
Leo: Preening is unseemly.
Benjamin: I am not preening.
Fitzgerald: You are, but it is not the concern of the moment.
Ian: Sorrows shared are halved, and all that.
Benjamin: I don't know why you're complaining. You'll be published before me.
Brent: I was supposed to be published last March. March!
Dusty: Life happens.
Jordan: A series of unfortunately events.
Richard: Best laid plans of mice and men.
Brent: Murphy's Law.
Fitzgerald: What is this Murphy's Law?
Leo: Ask Jack. He knows everything.
Jack: Anything that can go wrong will go wrong at the worst possible moment.
Jordan: O'Toole's Corollary declares Murphy was an optimist.
Brent: Not helping, guys.
Leo: Never give up hope.
Jack: Our Lady's world has undergone a number of upheavals, but it is settling.
Leo: Stand strong, gentleman.
Jack: Indeed. It's the least we may do.
Patrick: Buckle up, Buttercup. We're in for a bumpy ride.
Benjamin: Who is this Buttercup?
Jack: It's a figure of speech.
Benjamin: It's ridiculous.
Jack: It made you smile. It even made Brent smile.
Dusty: Mission accomplished.
Tuesday, June 3, 2014
Reveiw of AZ Dreamin Readers' Conference...
Loved it!
First, I presented a workshop, A Writer's Environment, at the amazing Buildin' the Dream conference, run in connection with AZ Dreamin'. The first is for writers of any kind, and the second is for romance readers. What an amazing opportunity and experience. I learned from every class. Of course, the problem was wanting to be in two classes at the same time.
At the readers' conference, the following day, I attended book clubs ~ 30 minute blocks ~ with some of my favorite authors. Fan girl moment: I met Hallee Bridgeman. I discovered her books because of the conference. She writes the kind of Christian Romance novels I love to read. I'll write a complete blog on her, including a link to her blog, on Thursday.
I renewed friendships, seeing some wonderful people I haven't seen since last year's conference, and made some new friends I look forward to seeing next year.
The hotel was lovely, located on a golf course, and the area was beautiful. I enjoyed gazing at the north side of Camelback Mountain from my balcony. I spent time every morning breathing in the view and the cool air. Yes, it was still cool in the morning.
Fun side notes:
At breakfast, in the dining room, I sat by the window or outside, and saw the little cottontail who lived in the area. Cute!
On Sunday morning, I sat outside on the balcony while I read my Bible. At 8:05, a line of golf carts trundled along the path between the hotel and the golf course. The first thing to pop into my head was: A ride in Disneyland!
First, I presented a workshop, A Writer's Environment, at the amazing Buildin' the Dream conference, run in connection with AZ Dreamin'. The first is for writers of any kind, and the second is for romance readers. What an amazing opportunity and experience. I learned from every class. Of course, the problem was wanting to be in two classes at the same time.
At the readers' conference, the following day, I attended book clubs ~ 30 minute blocks ~ with some of my favorite authors. Fan girl moment: I met Hallee Bridgeman. I discovered her books because of the conference. She writes the kind of Christian Romance novels I love to read. I'll write a complete blog on her, including a link to her blog, on Thursday.
I renewed friendships, seeing some wonderful people I haven't seen since last year's conference, and made some new friends I look forward to seeing next year.
The hotel was lovely, located on a golf course, and the area was beautiful. I enjoyed gazing at the north side of Camelback Mountain from my balcony. I spent time every morning breathing in the view and the cool air. Yes, it was still cool in the morning.
Fun side notes:
At breakfast, in the dining room, I sat by the window or outside, and saw the little cottontail who lived in the area. Cute!
On Sunday morning, I sat outside on the balcony while I read my Bible. At 8:05, a line of golf carts trundled along the path between the hotel and the golf course. The first thing to pop into my head was: A ride in Disneyland!
Sunday, June 1, 2014
Saturday, May 31, 2014
Links to share Saturday...
For my readers who are looking for other authors who write sweet and/or Christian books, Genesis 5020 writes up reviews. I've found a couple of new-to-me authors I like from reading her reviews:
http://5020genesis.wordpress.com/
The things you learn when researching a story are varied, and sometimes you run across someone who captures your attention, like Steve (I learned a lot in a very short post, and I laughed, and the cake comparison really grabbed me):
http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2014/04/new-or-used-the-most-reliable-car-in-the-usa-is-a/
I recently discovered Angela Cavanaugh's blog. Here are a few writing hints:
http://angelacavanaugh.wordpress.com/2014/05/21/writing-wednesday-esd-extra-sensory-description/
Beth Trissel shared a bit about Rosemary:
http://bethtrissel.wordpress.com/2014/05/26/rosemary-the-herb-of-remembrance/
God bless.
http://5020genesis.wordpress.com/
The things you learn when researching a story are varied, and sometimes you run across someone who captures your attention, like Steve (I learned a lot in a very short post, and I laughed, and the cake comparison really grabbed me):
http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2014/04/new-or-used-the-most-reliable-car-in-the-usa-is-a/
I recently discovered Angela Cavanaugh's blog. Here are a few writing hints:
http://angelacavanaugh.wordpress.com/2014/05/21/writing-wednesday-esd-extra-sensory-description/
Beth Trissel shared a bit about Rosemary:
http://bethtrissel.wordpress.com/2014/05/26/rosemary-the-herb-of-remembrance/
God bless.
Thursday, May 29, 2014
Life Happens...
Fortunately, God knows this and is already there. He prepares a way. What I've discovered in my own life is that God's way is rarely my way. It isn't that my plan was a bad plan. I do the best I'm able with what I have and know. God sees the complete picture.
So, why bother with creating a plan at all?
For one thing, it's a good exercise for me. It requires self-discipline, imagination, and perspective. Creating a plan requires me to consider my options, my capabilities, and perhaps more importantly what is it I want to accomplish. Often, once I think things through, what I thought I wanted wasn't.
What's more important?
I learn to trust God. When my plan blows up in my face, I must trust God to see me through the fire.
My plan, too often, is a fence to contain my world. God's plan pushes me to bloom outside my fence.
So, why bother with creating a plan at all?
For one thing, it's a good exercise for me. It requires self-discipline, imagination, and perspective. Creating a plan requires me to consider my options, my capabilities, and perhaps more importantly what is it I want to accomplish. Often, once I think things through, what I thought I wanted wasn't.
What's more important?
I learn to trust God. When my plan blows up in my face, I must trust God to see me through the fire.
My plan, too often, is a fence to contain my world. God's plan pushes me to bloom outside my fence.
Tuesday, May 27, 2014
Memorial Day
Memorial Day used to occur on May 30th, every year. It is a day to remember the military men and women who have died while serving. May God bless the Gold Star families, families who have lost members of their family. Freedom isn't free. All gave some; some gave all.
J. Morgan's tribute:
http://jennmorgan69.wordpress.com/2014/05/25/remembering-memorial-day/
J. Morgan's tribute:
http://jennmorgan69.wordpress.com/2014/05/25/remembering-memorial-day/
Saturday, May 24, 2014
Sharing links...
This is a short video, part of another program. Jim Caviezel is the actor who played Jesus in "The Passion of the Christ." I've seen some interviews and read a bit about him, enough to touch my heart. He was one of my first heroes pinned to my Hero Board on Pinterest. Even if no one else watches this, I needed this.
http://www.faithit.com/this-jesus-actor-is-about-to-blow-up-your-view-on-gods-mercy-with-one-powerful-question/
http://www.faithit.com/this-jesus-actor-is-about-to-blow-up-your-view-on-gods-mercy-with-one-powerful-question/
Thursday, May 22, 2014
TBR pile...
With my arm still recovering from my fall, I've taken the time to catch up on my To-Be-Read pile. These are all sweet novels, some Christian, some not. Though they're sweet, some deal with some tough subjects.
The Reluctant Bachelorette by Rachael Anderson.
Touched by Mercy by Tina Pinson
Greater than Rubies by Hallee Bridgeman.
I'm looking forward to meeting Hallee at the Arizona Dreamin' Readers' Conference and buying her her books in paperback. Definitely keepers for me.
The Reluctant Bachelorette by Rachael Anderson.
Touched by Mercy by Tina Pinson
Greater than Rubies by Hallee Bridgeman.
I'm looking forward to meeting Hallee at the Arizona Dreamin' Readers' Conference and buying her her books in paperback. Definitely keepers for me.
Tuesday, May 20, 2014
Last bits of spring...
Here in Arizona, spring is sizzling into summer. I hope you enjoy some of the flowers in my yard.
God bless.
Saturday, May 17, 2014
Sharing links...
Genesis 5020 shared a lovely, inspirational blog a bit ago:
http://5020genesis.wordpress.com/2014/04/25/the-moon/
Beth Trissel shared some of her herb lore, particularly about willows:
http://bethtrissel.wordpress.com/2014/05/07/the-healing-powers-of-the-willow-tree/
J. Morgan shared an inspiring post, posing the question "Who am I?" It was a timely post for me.
http://jennmorgan69.wordpress.com/2014/05/11/serving-two-masters/
Writers In The Storm offered advice on creating loglines:
http://writersinthestorm.wordpress.com/2014/05/16/drama-belongs-in-your-logline-not-in-its-creation/
God bless.
http://5020genesis.wordpress.com/2014/04/25/the-moon/
Beth Trissel shared some of her herb lore, particularly about willows:
http://bethtrissel.wordpress.com/2014/05/07/the-healing-powers-of-the-willow-tree/
J. Morgan shared an inspiring post, posing the question "Who am I?" It was a timely post for me.
http://jennmorgan69.wordpress.com/2014/05/11/serving-two-masters/
Writers In The Storm offered advice on creating loglines:
http://writersinthestorm.wordpress.com/2014/05/16/drama-belongs-in-your-logline-not-in-its-creation/
God bless.
Thursday, May 15, 2014
Tuesday, May 13, 2014
Chihuly in red and yellow...
http://www.chihuly.com/
Today's colors are, as mentioned, red and yellow or yellow and red, as the case may be. Sometimes together. Sometimes apart. And a couple non-glass samples.
Today's colors are, as mentioned, red and yellow or yellow and red, as the case may be. Sometimes together. Sometimes apart. And a couple non-glass samples.
Sunday, May 11, 2014
Saturday, May 10, 2014
Thursday, May 8, 2014
Tuesday, May 6, 2014
Chihuly morning...
My sister took me to see the Chihuly exhibit at our local botanical garden.
http://www.chihuly.com/
The glass art... stunning, jaw-dropping, amazing, incredible, fantastic...
We also saw quail, including a dozen little ones bobbing along as fast as their tiny legs could carry them. Adorable. We also saw doves, wrens, ground squirrels, hummingbirds, finches, lizards, and a cottontail rabbit!
We also visited the Butterfly Exhibit. Wow. My camera's battery died, and my sister filled up her camera's picture file. One of the butterflies landed on my finger and kept me company for a while. Humbling. Unforgettable.
Nesting doves. Really. Top third of the picture, a little to the left. White cloud behind the bird's head, but blue sky right above and cholla. Nasty plant cholla
Peter Cottontail. Not really, Peter that is. But the rabbit is there, between the bush and the rock. Promise.
I'll share more pictures from my photo safari over the next several posts.
http://www.chihuly.com/
The glass art... stunning, jaw-dropping, amazing, incredible, fantastic...
We also saw quail, including a dozen little ones bobbing along as fast as their tiny legs could carry them. Adorable. We also saw doves, wrens, ground squirrels, hummingbirds, finches, lizards, and a cottontail rabbit!
We also visited the Butterfly Exhibit. Wow. My camera's battery died, and my sister filled up her camera's picture file. One of the butterflies landed on my finger and kept me company for a while. Humbling. Unforgettable.
Nesting doves. Really. Top third of the picture, a little to the left. White cloud behind the bird's head, but blue sky right above and cholla. Nasty plant cholla
Peter Cottontail. Not really, Peter that is. But the rabbit is there, between the bush and the rock. Promise.
I'll share more pictures from my photo safari over the next several posts.
Monday, May 5, 2014
New Cover Reveal...
It's here! Another gorgeous cover by Carol Fiorillo. Thank you! Book 4 of the Endless Possibilities series, Grace's Possibilities, available June 21, 2014. Next month!
Saturday, May 3, 2014
Saturday links...
Inspiration is found everywhere.
Jennifer M. Eaton shared a poignant experience:
http://jennifermeaton.com/2014/04/27/meeting-a-man-who-survived-the-holocaust-as-a-boy-72-years-later/
Beth Trissel has been sharing the coming of spring:
http://bethtrissel.wordpress.com/
Hope for the Broken Hearted shares prayers on her blog and on FB:
http://hopeforthebrokenhearted.wordpress.com/2014/05/01/prayer-for-may-1st/
God bless.
Jennifer M. Eaton shared a poignant experience:
http://jennifermeaton.com/2014/04/27/meeting-a-man-who-survived-the-holocaust-as-a-boy-72-years-later/
Beth Trissel has been sharing the coming of spring:
http://bethtrissel.wordpress.com/
Hope for the Broken Hearted shares prayers on her blog and on FB:
http://hopeforthebrokenhearted.wordpress.com/2014/05/01/prayer-for-may-1st/
God bless.
Thursday, May 1, 2014
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