Debra's Reading Corner

2 "Heartsong Present" free books

2012-02-01T06:46:00.000-08:00

Hey, All! If you love Historical Romance, then this is the giveaway for you. I have two Heartsong Presents historical books to give away.

And now it's time to announce the winner...drum roll, please...and the winner is...

LINDA

"SOONER SUNSET" author Janet Lee Barton.

Blurb: Charity Logan's life is full of uncertainty.
Charity had always prided herself on her ability to make decisions. But that was before the governor's campaign to movw Oklahoma's capital from her hometown of Guthrie to the much larger Oklahoma City. And it was before she met Luke Johnson, a reporter she's falling in love with but can't find it in herself to trust.
   From the moment he meets Charity, Luke is drawn to her inner and outer beauty. Consumed by his career as a reporter working for one of Oklahoma's influential newspaper, he;s never before been interested in courting a woman. But no matter what he does to prove his love, Luke knows something is holding Charity back.
   How will Charity find the courage to trust in the misdst of an uncertain world? And though sunset appears to be falling on the first Sooner capital, will Luke and Charity find a hope to unite them as they face a new day?

"WHITE RIVER SUNRISE" author Frances Devine.
Blurb: Addy is stuck.

Addy Sullivan is contemt with her life in Branson Town, Missouri...well, mostly. Part of her longs to be adventurous and travel beyond her hometown. But she could never leave the children she teaches ot her family who all need her, especially her twin, Abby. Even if she must give up her chance for love...
   Jim Castle can't believe his good fortune, Addy Sullivan is still single! However, his job demands he travel a lot, and Addy would never leave her family, would she?
Will Addy and Jim stubbornly hold on to things they think are important or give God control of their lives...and hearts?

BOTH BOOKS GOES TO ONE WINNER!

Remember, if you mention in your comment you're a new or old follower, your name will entered into the drawing twice. Once for leaving a comment, and a second time for being a follower.

Drawing will be held Feb. 11

Deb's Chicken Salad

2012-01-21T22:14:00.000-08:00

Hey, All! I wanted to find a new way to spice up my blog a bit this year. So, I decide to share a few of my favorite recipes with you from time to time. So, here's it is.

I've never really liked chicken salad, until I tried one similar to this one in a little mom and pop's place a few years ago. I got the recipe from the waitress, changed a couple of things to make it my own, and it was a hit with my family!

Deb's Chicken Salad

4 to 5 chicken breast (cooked and shredded)
1/4 cup of toasted pecans (chopped)
1 large apple (diced)
15 to 20 seedless grapes (sliced)
1 tablespoon of Tarragon leaves
Salt to taste
Mayonnnaise - stir in to reach the desired creaminess

Enjoy!!

FREE KINDLE EBOOK

2012-01-20T05:56:00.000-08:00

I just love my Kindle, and I get excited everytime I find a book I've been wanting to read, free for kindle download. So, when I saw Sandie D. Bricker's "Always the Wedding Planner, Never the Bride" was a free download, I just had to share it with all of you.
I've downloaded my copy, so hurry on over to Amazon and gets yours!
(it's also free for the Nook right now, too)

http://www.amazon.com/Always-Wedding-Planner-Creation-ebook/dp/B0061QGM7M/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1327065544&sr=8-2

"The Blue Enchantress" author M. L.Tyndall (Free book)

2012-01-05T14:52:00.000-08:00

Hey, All! It's time draw a name from the hat. Congratulations goes to...

KATIE G.

Let's start 2012 out right with a wonderful book by author M.L. Tyndall, "The Blue Enchantress."

Blurb: An adventure-seeking woman and a security-minded ship builder are shipwrecked together.

Still grieving the loss of her mother-and private tragedies od her own-Hope Westcott plays the part of a dutiful admiral's daughter. But longing for the love and acceptance she never felt at home, Hope plunges into Charles Towne society...and an illicit affair with Lord Falkland.

For Captain Nathaniel Mason, wealth means security, so he is determined to build his shipping business-ignoring God's call on his life to become an impoverished pastor. He also ignores his attraction to the frivolous, vain Hope Westcott.

Hope's adventure seeking lands her in the hands of an unscrupulous ship captain who wants to sell her to the highest bidder. When Nathaniel sees Hope on the auction block, will he listen to God and sarifice his ship, cargo, and security to save her?

From the Carolina Coast to the Caribbean, through stormy seas and shipwreck, can Hope and Nathaniel put aside their painful pasts, listen to God's voice, and find true love and acceptance?

Remember if you mention in your comment you're an old or new follower, your name will be added twice into the drawing. Please make sure you leave an email address, so if you win I'll have a way of contacting you.

Drawing will be held Jan. 14

Happy New Year!!

2011-12-27T07:54:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas to All!!!

2011-12-18T11:33:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone enjoyed my "Merry Christmas To You" giveaway!! I want to thank all of you for joining in.

With family time and other Christmas things going on I won't be posting again until after the Holidays. So, with that being said I would like to wish everyone a very MERRY CHRISTMAS from Debra's Reading Corner!

"Merry Christmas To You" giveaway. Week four

2011-12-10T12:20:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone has a very Merry Christmas!! Well, every good thing must come to an end, I can't believe this is the last of my "Merry Christmas To You" giveaways.

Now, it's time to announce the winner. The winner of the last Christmas giveaway is...

MELANIE

Here's the list of everything included in this giveaway:

A DOOR COUNTY CHRISTMAS authors Eileen Key, Becky Melby, Rachael Phillips, and Cynthia Ruchti.

A RIVERWALK CHRISTMAS authors Elizabeth Goddard, Martha Rogers, Lynette Sowell, and Kathleen Y'Barbo.

Christmas goodies:
1 small gift bags
1 pack of 25 Holiday treat bags
2 gift boxes
Assorted gift tags
Snowflake ornament
Gingerbread house ornament
Candy cane pen
Nutcracker Snickers candy treat

HOW TO EARN EXTRA ENTRIES:
Leave a comment + 1
Let me know in comment if you're a new or old follower + 2
Answer the Christmas Question below + 3
(Please include your email address in with you comment, so if you win I'll have a way of contacting you.)

Christmas question: In the song "We Wish You A Merry Christmas" what pudding did they want?

Drawing will be held December, 17

Merry Christmas To You Giveaway! Week Three

2011-12-03T18:55:00.000-08:00

Hey, All! It's time to announce this week's winner...drum roll, please... and the winner is...

JUDY
Here are at week three in my "Merry Christmas To You" giveaway. Here's the list of things included:

Two Christmas Books:
CHRISTMAS LOVE AT LAKE TAHOE authors Lena Nelson Dooley, Jeanie Smith Cash, Jean Kincaid, and Jeri Odell.

CHRISTMAS MAIL-ORDER BRIDES authors Susan Page Davis, Vickie McDonough, Therese Stenzel, and Carrie Turansky.

Christmas goodies:
2 small gift bags
1 pack of 25 Holiday treat bags
2 gift boxes
Assorted gift tags
Snowflake ornament
Gingerbread house ornament
Candy cane pen
Nutcracker Snickers candy treat

HOW TO EARN EXTRA ENTRIES:

Leave a comment + 1
Let me know in comment if you're a new or old follower + 2
Answer the Christmas Question below + 3
(Please include your email address in with you comment, so if you win I'll have a way of contacting you.)

Christmas Question: In the song, The 12 days of Christmas, what gift was given on the 9th day?

Drawing will be held December, 10

Merry Christmas To You Giveaway! Week two

2011-11-26T11:11:00.000-08:00

Hey All! Here we are in week two of my "Merry Christmas toYou" Christmas giveaway! This week's winner is...

MAUREEN

Here's the list of the things in this giveaway:

Two Christmas books:
"CHRISTMAS HOMECOMING" authors Debby Mayne, Paige Winship Dooley, Elizabeth Goddard, and Elizabeth Ludwig.

"A WOODLAND CHRISTMAS" authors Ramona K. Cecil, Darlene Franklin, Janelle Mowery, and Tamela Hancock Murray.

Christmas goodies:
2 small gift bags
1 pack of 25 Holiday treat bags
2 gift boxes
Assorted gift tags
Snowflake ornament
Gingerbread house ornament
Candy cane pen
Nutcracker Snickers candy treat

HOW TO EARN EXTRA ENTRIES:
Leave a comment + 1
Let me know in comment if you're a new or old follower + 2
Answer the Christmas Question below + 3
(Please include your email address in with you comment, so if you win I'll have a way of contacting you.)

Christmas Question: In the classic A CHRISTMAS CAROL what is the name of Bob Cratchit's wife?

Drawing will be held December 3

"Merry Christmas To You" Giveaway Begins!!!!!

2011-11-19T23:13:00.000-08:00

Hey All! We're off to a great start in my Christmas giveaways! Now it's time to announce the very first winner and the winner is...

ANNE PAYNE

If you didn't winner this time...DON'T FORGET, THERE'S THREE MORE GIVEAWAYS TO GO!

So here we go! Here's the list of everything included in this weeks giveaway, and all of it goes to one winner.

2 Christmas Books:
"Love Finds You on Christmas Morning" authors Debby Mayne & Trish Perry

"A Blue & Gray Christmas" authors Vickie McDonough, Lauralee Bliss, Tamela Hancock Murray, and Carrie Turansky.

Christmas goodies:
2 small gift bags
1 pack of 25 Holiday treat bags
2 gift boxes
Assorted gift tags
Snowflake ornament
Gingerbread house ornament
Candy cane pen
Nutcracker Snickers candy treat

HOW TO EARN EXTRA ENTRIES:
Leave a comment + 1
Let me know in comment if you're a new or old follower + 2
Answer the Christmas Question below + 3

(Please include your email address in with you comment, so if you win I'll have a way of contacting you.)

CHRISTMAS QUESTION: Can you name Santas two missing reindeers? Dasher, Dancer, _______, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, ________, and Blitzen.

Drawing will be held November, 26

My Blog's New Christmas Look

2011-11-13T10:07:00.001-08:00

Hey All!

I love this time of year! Of course I don't begin decorating my home for Christmas until after Thanksgiving, but because my "Merry Christmas To You" Christmas giveaway will begin November 21, I wanted my blog to get everyone in the Christmas spirit! So, I've decorated my blog for the upcoming season.

When do you start decorating your home for the Holidays?

"A Texas Legacy Christmas" by Diann Mills - Free book

2011-11-06T08:00:00.000-08:00

Hey All! It's time to shake the hat and draw out the name of our winner, and the winner is....

CHERYL

I have another wonderful book to giveaway. "A Texas Legacy Christmas" author DiAnn Mills.

Blurb: Romance is on the wish list for an Old-West Christmas.

Zack Kahler is ready to shake off the dust of New York City and return to Texas to take over his hometown paper. Just before leaving, the newsman finds himslef the intended victim of an eight year-old pickpocket. After learning the street urchin is an orphaned along with a twin, Kack decides to bring them back to Kahlerville. But will Zack be able to run the newspaper, recover from a lost love, and still manage to keep his unruly charges out of trouble?

Chloe weaver has been an outcast all of her life. Only one schoolmate ever treated her with compassion, and now Zack is back in town, boarding his children at the house where Chloe works. Can she hope to capture Zack's love, or is it wiser to accept romance from another?

Zack, Chloe, and the twins each have a past reputations to overcome. Will they succeed in finding the acceptance for which they've longed? Could it take a Christmas miracle for their dreams to come true?

As always, if you mention in your comment you're a new or old follower, your name will be entered twice...Drawing will be held November, 19

REMINDER: Don't forget November, 21 my "Merry Christmas To You" Christmas giveaway will begin and run through until December, 17. Each giveaway will include two Christmas books and other Christmas goodies. Hope to see you there!

"Raider's Heart" author Marcia Gruver .. Book giveaway

2011-10-27T13:34:00.000-07:00

Hey Gang! It's time to announce the winner. Congratulations goes to:

JOY (books are a blessings)

Blurb: A SILLY LITTLE LAMP HAS TURNED DAWSEY WILKES'S LIFE UPSIDE DOWN.

Hooper and Duncan McRae grew up hearing their father's tales of the little golden lamp that eluded his possession. Hooper, always the darling brother, seizes a once-in-a-lifetime chance when passing the Wilkes house to get a peek at the legendary lamp. But simple curiousity could open a Pandora;s box of trouble for the McRaes.

Whisked from her opulent home in the middle of the night, Dawsey Wilkes wakes up deep in the Carolina swamps, the proisoner of a rouwdy family who support the infamous Henry Berry Lowry, a vigilante intent on bringing justice to the poor.

Wooed by the competeitive McRae brothers and shunned by their sister Ellie, Dawsey remains intent on getting back home to her ailing father. But has it been God's plan all along to unite these two very differnt families?

As always, if you mention in your comment you're a new or old follower, your name will be added to the drawing twice. PLEASE, leave your email address in the comment too, so if you're a winner I will have a way to contact you. Thanks!

Drawing will be held, November 5

Merry Christmas To You Giveaway!

2011-10-15T08:32:00.000-07:00

Hey All! I wanted to let everyone know about my "Merry Christmas To You" giveaway coming soon.

It will begin November 21 and run through December 17.

Each giveaway will be posted on Monday and end on Saturday for four weeks in a row!!
Each giveaway will include two Christmas books and other Christmas goodies.

This year I will have a fun Christmas question added in with each post. If you include the correct answer in with your comment your name will be added into the drawing a second time, and of course for all my sweet followers if you're an old or new follower your name will be added a third time. So, you'll have three chances to win!!

So don't forget to mark your calendar and see what all I have in store for you, and remember it all begins on November 21!

I hope to see you all there!!!

Cindy Woodsmall "The Harvest of Grace" free book

2011-10-02T07:36:00.000-07:00

Hey All! It's time to announce the winner of, "The Harvest of Grace" by Cindy Woodsmall. (hardcover)
And the winner is. . .

JANE T.

Blurb: Although Sylvia Fisher recongizes that most Old Order Amish women her age spend their hours managing a household and raising babies, she has just one focus, tending and nurturing the herd on her family's dairy farm. But when a dangerous connection with an old beau forces her to move far from home, she must concentrate on a new start and pour her energy reviving a debt-ridden farm.

   After months in rehab, Aaron Blank returns home to sell his dad's failing farm and move his parents into an easier lifestyle. Tow things in his way: the father who stubbornly refuses to reconize that Aaron has changed and the determined new farmhand his parents love like a daughter. her influence on Aaron's parents could ruin his plans to escape the burdens of farming and build a new life.

   Can Aaron and Sylvia find common ground? Or will their unflinching efforts toward opposite goals blur the bigger picture-one revealing the path to forgivness, glimpses of Greace, and the promising of love?

   If you mention in your comment you're a new or old follower, your name will be added to the drawing twice
PLEASE, make sure you leave your email address in with your comment, so if you're the winner I will have a way of contacting you.

DRAWING WILL BE HELD October, 15

WHAT TO BRING TO ACFW CONFERENCE.

2011-09-14T07:00:00.000-07:00

ARE YOU READY FOR THE ACFW CONFERENCE? Do you have your bags packed and wondering if you've forgotten anything?
Well if you're like me, I have to make myself a check-list for every trip I go on. If I don't as soon as I arrive at my destination, I realized I've forgotten something. I visited several blogs and here's a check list of some thing to bring to the ACFW Conference. Camy Tang's blog was the most helpful.

1) Business cards and/or bookmarks. For me, bookmarks are usually easier since writers are readers, too, and can always use a bookmark.

2) A one-sheet. Here’s a great website to see some samples of one-sheets. http://www.lornaseilstad.com/forwriters.html

3) Your Pitch. Be ready to give the gist of it in 30 seconds.

4) Camera/Camcorder. Not only for the conference, but for sight-seeing, too.

5) $1 bills to tip the maids---a dollar on your pillow every morning, not just your last morning, because you could have different maids every day.

6) Clothes. Business/Casual. Everybody is different, so pick what you feel comfortable in.

7) Light jacket and/or sweater. Sometimes it can get quiet chilly cold in those air-conditioned rooms.

8) Comfortable shoes. You’ll be spending a lot of time walking between the workshops, meals, etc.

9) Workout clothes/shoes/ swimwear. The nice thing about ACFW conferences is that it’s always in a hotel with a good gym to work out in, and usually the hotels have pools, too.

10) Scent free lotion/deodorant. The Conference is SCENT FREE since a lot of people are allergic to perfumes. Even scented antibiotic gel will set off someone’s allergies, so please be considerate.

11) An extra, empty duffel bag or suitcase because you may end up buying books and then trying to stuff them into my overstuffed suitcase to carry them home.

12) Snacks. The prices on the snacks in the hotel gift shops can be quiet costly.

13) Computer. This is NOT a have to, but if you’re like I am, I need to check my emails on a daily basic.

If you’re bringing your computer for note-taking in workshops, remember that the rooms don’t always have enough outlets, so consider bringing a multi-outlet surge protector.

You don’t need to bring a notebook for note-taking, because ACFW will give you a nice notebook with your conference tote bag.

14) Cell phone. But, remember to turn the phone off, or at least switch it to vibrate when you’re in the workshops & sessions.

15) Pajamas.

16) Socks. Socks are great to just easily slip on at night, if you’re like me and suffer from “I can’t keep my feet warm” syndrome.

17) Charge cords. For you cell phone, computer, e-readers, etc.

18) Bible.

19) Breath mints/gum. You always want to have fresh breath.

20) Miscellaneous stuff:

Underwear/hose

Makeup

Hair products- such as…curling iron, bobbie pins, hair clasp, hair spray (unscented) most hotels supplies hair dryers.
Jewelry
Antacids
Vitamins/medications
Safety pins or small sewing kit (you never know when you might pop a button)
Nail care kit (if you have nails that can chip or break at the worst possible times)
Band-aids/first-aid kit
Handi-wipes

One last tip: For wrinkled clothing, I myself buy a can of wrinkle release for my clothes that were packed tight in my suitcase. I don’t like to iron, so I just give any wrinkled item a couple of quick sprays and hang it up to dry.

"Simple Choices" by Nancy Mehl

2011-08-30T11:07:00.000-07:00

Hey, All! Thanks to allof you who entered for a chance to win "Simple Choices" by Nancy Mehl. And now, it's time to announce the winner...and the winner is...

REBECCA

Blurb: Will a missing Mennonite teen end Gracies' Hopes for a happy future in Harmony?

Freelance graphic designer Gracie Temple is trying to concentrate on her upcoming marriage to Sam Goodrich, the man of her dreams-until the events make her simple life in Harmony, Kansas, a mess of complications and fear.

Foremost there's Hannah Mueller, daughter of the local Mennonite pastor and the girl Gracie sees as her protege. Gracie promises Hannah's parents that an art workshop in Wichita won't adversely affect the shy Mennonite girl, but once there, Gracie wonders if she's spoken too soon-especially when Hannah adopts the worldly clothing styles of the big city and threathens to remain in Wichita instead of returning to Harmony. Gracie manages to coax Hannah home, but soon after arriving, Hannah vanishes. While the country sheriff's is convinced Hannah's just another runaway, Gracie's not so sure.

As Gracie races against time to discover the truth of Hannah's disappearance, her wedding plans-and her family-suffer under the strain. what simple choices will be made that not only affect Gracie's life but the lives of everyone she loves in Harmony?

As always, if you mention in your comment you a new or old follower your name will add to the drawing twice. Please leave your email address in with your comment also, so if you're the winner I will have a way to contact you.

Drawing will be held September, 10

Debra Ullrick's Giveaway

2011-08-19T21:45:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone! Have I got an awesome giveaway for you. Debra Ullrick, a dear friend of mine is having a wonderful giveaway over at her blog, and you could be the lucky winner of one of her books, "A Log Cabin Christmas or The Christmas Belles of Georgia." I was so thrilled about her giveaway, I just had to share it with you. When you visit her blog tell her Debra sent you! YOU CAN'T ENTER THE CONTEST HERE...YOU HAVE TO VISIT DEBRA'S BLOG AND ENTER FOR A CHANCE TO WIN ONE OF HER BOOKS. http://www.christianromancewriter.blogspot.com/

"The Gunsmith's Gallantry" by Susan Page Davis (free book)

2011-08-09T09:48:00.000-07:00

Hey Y'all! Thanks to everyone who left a comment on a chance to win, "The Gunsmith's Gallantry" author Susan Page Davis. it's one of her books in the, Ladies' Shooting Club.

Now, it's time to announce the winner...Congratulations goes to...

DEBORAH

Blurb: The Shy Gunsmith has problems--Women problems!
    Hiram Dooley's sister gert is about to leave him to get married-if Sheriff Ethan Chapman would ever propose; his sister-in-law, Rose, thinks Hiram should marry her, since they're both widowed; and the woman he truly loves, Libby Adams, is blind to his regard.

   Schoolmarm Isabel Fennel has a differnt problem-a man claiming to her uncle came to town...and then disappeared. She's afraid her father may have killed him and buried him behind the barn. Hiram helps the sheriff end a brawl at Bitsy Shepard's saloon, and a mysterious stranger claims to be heir to a mining claim. The mayhem continues when Cyrus Fennel shows up with a black eye and starts trying to sell his land.

Can Hiram and the sheriff, along with Libby and the other members of the Ladies' Shooting Club , discover what's behind the mysterious events in Fergus? Will the uproar derail Hiram and Libby's blooming romance, or can the Ladies' Shooting Club save the day once again?

   As Always, if you mention in your comment you're a new or old follower, your name will be added to the drawing twice. A bonus for being a follower :D
Also, please leave your email addy in with your comment, too, so if you're a winner I will have a way to contact you.

Drawing will be held August, 20

"The Anonymous Bride" by Vickie McDonough ... Free Book

2011-07-18T16:36:00.000-07:00

Hey, Everyone! Thanks to everyone who entered the giveaway. Now it's time to announce the winner. Congratulations goes to....

CHARITY

I have another great book to giveaway. "The Anonymous Bride" by Vickie McDonough.

Blurb: How many brides does one man need?
It's been years, but Luke Davis is back-older and wiser-and still alone. Returning as Lookout's new town marshal, Luke is determined to face the past and move on. But when he discovers that the woman who betrayed him is now a widow, all his plans fall at his feet.

Rachel has carried guilty shame for eleven years. Her marriage to James Hamilton was not what Luke or the town thought it to be. Now James is dead, and Luke is back. could they possibly find love a second time?
Rachel begs his forgiveness, but Luke finds none to give.

And then the brides arrive. Three of them-ordered for Luke through newspaper ads by his incorrigible cousins. The only place in town for them to stay is Rachel's boarding-house. And none of the ladies is willing to let Luke go. When choosing a bride becomes a contest, the chaos that ensures is almost funny.

When the mayor forces Luke to pick a bride or lose his job, will Luke listen to his heart that still longs for Rachel or choose one of the mail-order brides?

As always, if you mention in your comment you're an old or new follower, your name will be entered into the drawing twice. PLEASE remember to leave your email address in with your comment, too, so if you win I'll have a way to contact you.

Drawing will be held August 6

ACFW Conference suggestions from Ane Mulligan

2011-07-10T12:48:00.000-07:00

Who's attended the ACFW 2011 Conference In St. Louis, Missouri September 22-25?

On the ACFW Southeast loop we've been having a discussion on how many number of times this year's conference will make for each of us. So far, in our area we have four people who will be going for the very first time. So, Ane Mulligan share with us some very helpful suggestions, tips, and advice on the conference. So, with her permission I'd like to share them with you. Thanks, Ane!

1. If you can, go a day early and volunteer to help stuff packets or something. That gives you a few friends right from the start.

2. Don't push yourself. If you start to feel overloaded, skip a class or a general session and do something else or take a nap. You can always get the MP3 of that class later.

3. Make use of the prayer room.

4. IF you plan to pitch to an agent or editor, practice at home and with friends. Covenant with a couple of pals who will call you at random unplanned hours and ask, "Tell me about your book." DO that until you stop swallowing your tongue or stuttering. :)

5. Remember, agents and editors are people, too. They are there to find the next great book. It might be yours! So use lunch and dinner to pitch at the tables, but don't monopolize the conversation. Again, practice until you can deliver your pitch in 30 seconds. Then close your mouth. If you babble on for a long time and don't give anyone else a chance, the editor/agent will think you do that in your writing, too. :) A good byword is: Less is more.

6. Networking is as big a part of conference as the classes and pitch sessions. That's how I met my critique partner, Gina Holmes. We met at the Blueridge Mountains conference and have been crit partners ever since. That was back in 2004.

7. Last but not least ... never ... I repeat ... never follow an agent or editor into the restroom to pitch! Elevators are okay, after all they can't escape if they've already pushed their floor button. ;) But the restrooms are off limits. And don't think it never happened. Just ask Chip MacGregor.

Most of all, don't set wild expectations. You will NOT be handed a contract at breakfast. Well, there is an exception to that, if you have a manuscript under consideration at Barbour. They always award 1 or 2 contracts the first general session of the conference. but if this is your first time, and you're a fairly new writer, simply sit back and enjoy being among people who actually "get you."

See y'all there!

Ane Mulligan

"WOLFSBANE" author Ronie Kendig - giveaway

2011-06-27T16:25:00.000-07:00

Hey Y'all! Thanks to all who entered to win Ronie's book. And, now it's time to announce the winner. Congratulations goes to...

SHEREE
I have another great giveaway. "Wolfsbane" by Ronie Kendig.

Blurb: A BETRAYED DEMOLITION'S EXPERT closes in om secrets worth killing for.

In venezuela, Dannielle Roark and her Army Corps of Engineers team is captured. After six months of captivity, Dani escapes only to end up charged with espionage and forced to return to the jungle to prove that a nuclear facility exists. On the mission, she feels abandoned by God and country. Will she live long enough to make those responsible pay?

Haunted by memories of a mission gone bad, former Green Beret
medic Canyon Metcalfe wrestles with his developing feelings for feisty Dani. But, drawn by a powerful need to ensure she returns unharmed, Canyon urges Nightshade to accept the mission to help Dani unravel her lethal secret.

Separated from the team during a deadly storm, Dani and Canyon are left vulnerable-and then captured. Can Dani and Canyon fight the nightmare armed with only forgiveness and raw courage?
Or will they lose their lives, minds, and each other?

Reminder: if you mention in your comment you're a follower, your name will entered into the drawing twice. PLEASE, leave your email address in your comment too, so I'll have a way to contact you if you win!

Drawing will be held July 9

Wanda E. Brunstetter's "The Journey" book giveaway

2011-06-10T13:00:00.000-07:00

Hello, Everyone! Thanks to all of you who entered your comments on a chance to win Wanda E. Brunstetter's book "THE JOURNEY" Now, it's time to announce the winner...

REBECCA

Blurb: Can a heart once torn by love's rejection find a new beginning?

Titus Fisher has often made poor choices. When he lived in Pennsylvania he chose the wrong girl, who broke his heart. When he moves to Kentucky, he finnally discovers that he possesses woodworking skills. Will he stick with it or return to the old comforts-and love-from his life in Lancaster?

Suzanne Yoder's talents don't lie in the traditional Amish kitchen, but she suppresses artistic skills that are frowned on by those in her community who believes a woman's place is in the home. Will she find as ally in the broody newcomer?

Will each of their journeys to self-worth end with romance in Christian Country, Kentucky?

As always, if you mention in your comment you're a follower, your name will be added twcie to the drawing.
Attention: Please make sure you also leave your email address in with your comment, too, so if you win I'll have a way to contact you. Thanks!

Drawing will be held June, 25

2-book giveaway. "Promise of Time" & "Love's Raid"

2011-05-14T08:42:00.000-07:00

Hello, Everyone! I'd like to say "Thanks" to everyone who joined in on my 2 Heartsong Presents books to giveaway. Now, it's time to announce the winner...Congrats goes to...
CINDY W.
"Promise of Time" author S. Dionne Moore & "Love's Raid" author Darlene Franklin.

Blurb: "Promise of Time"...Ellie is Sure her Heart will Never Heal.

Ellie Lester sees time stretching endlessly after the death of her husband in the war that is tearing her country apart. She manages to find some purpose in helping slaves escape through the Underground Railroad. When her husband's cousin arrives, however, time seems to stand still. Is her heart awakening something new?

Theodore Lester is determined to reach his cousin's wife in the North witht he truth about her husband's death, even if he must flee from the Confederate Army. Seeing her again sparks something in his heart, and makes him want to stop running. But he can't escape from his dreams...or himself.
Time promises to heal all wounds, but will Ellie and Theo allow God to work His timing in their lives and bring a new promise of love?

Blurb: "Love's Raid"... Clara Is Resigned To Be A Spinster.

While others women in Maple Notch, Vermont, are married and raising children, Clara focuses her energies on creating an academy for girls so they can get a better education. She dreams of being able to vote and imagines a world where women could even run for office, an idea that evokes laughter ot fear in all the men she knows...except for Daniel Tuttle.

Having returned from war missing part of one arm, Daniel is convinced no woman would want him. So he keeps his focus on his job as town constable. But even as he searches for the men who are robbing area banks and threatening his community, he cannot shake the vision of Clara's steady gray eyes, the challenge of her quick mind, and the strength of her faith in God.
Will Clara and Daniel succeed in keeping love at arm's length? Or will their defenses fall to love's raid?

Reminder: If you mention in your comment you're a follower your name will be added to the drawing twice. PLEASE: leave your email address in with your comment so if you win I'll have a way to contact you.

Drawing will be held May, 28

"The Art of Romance" giveaway

2011-05-03T16:41:00.000-07:00

Hey Y'all! Thanks to everyone who entered the contest to win Kaye's book. And now congratulations goes out to the winner...

MERRY

Here's another great book I have to giveaway. "The Art of Romance" author Kaye Dacus

Blurb: Misconceptions Arise when Meddling Matriarchs Connive.

Sassy Evans and Perty Bradley are determined to get their older grandchildren married off, but when twenty-eight-year-old Dylan comes home after being fired from his teaching position because of the betrayal of his ex-girlfriend, Perty knows her grandson has more important issues to deal with first.

Sassy understands her friend's reservations about timing, but she also sees so many ways in which Dylan would be the perfect match for her thirty-four-year-old granddaughter Caylor. With his record of acclaimed paintings and Caylors bestselling novels, they could complement each other's talents and provide each other support and encouragement. And there's no denying the spark of attraction between the English professor with the untamed hair and the painter with the unusual tattos.

But neither grandmother realizes the secrets both Caylor and Dylan are keeping from each other. Will pain and embarrassment from the past keep Caylor and Dylan apart, or will they develop the courage to be truthful with each other and discover the true art of romance?

Reminder: If you mention in your comment you're an old or new follower, your name will be added to the hat twice. PLEASE: leave your email address in your comment also, so if you win I'll have a way to contact you. Thanks!

Drawing will be held May, 14

"The Sheriff's Surrender" Giveaway

2011-04-16T07:16:00.001-07:00

Hey Everyone! Thanks to all who enter the contest on a change to win,
"The Sheriff's Surrender" author Susan Page Davis
Now, let's shake the hat, I'm reaching in and pulling out the name...

MARIA
Blurb: A Murder in Fergus, Idaho, has the Townswomen Scared!
Gert Dooley can shoot the tail feathers off a jay at a hundred yards from years of test-firing the guns her brother repairs. But long after giving up on marriage, she yearns for rancher Ethan Chapman to see she's more than a crack shot with a firearm. When a murder strikes in the sleepy town, Gert forms the Ladies' Shooting Club to teach the women how to protect themselves, their families, and their businesses.

Ethan Chapman didn't ask to be named sheriff, but he accpets the position and takes in the investigation into the mysterious death of his predecessor. Now he's between a rock and a hard place-being pressured by the townswomen to restore order and safety to Fergus and by the men who insist Ethan disband the upstart Ladies' Shooting Club.

When another person is murdered, Ethan must turn to the Gert and her ladies to help int he investigation. But will Ethan,Gert, and the Ladies' Shooting Club find the murderer before he strikes again.

As Always....if you mention in your comment you're a new or old follower your name will be tossed in the hat twice. And, PLEASE leave your email address, too, so if you win I will have a way to contact you. Thanks!
Drawing will be held April 30

Critiquing Time!

2011-04-09T11:40:00.000-07:00

I have a question I'd like to ask.......

Are you looking for a critique partner? I know most every writer has a critique partner, or at least they need one.

I follow a few wonderful blogs where a small group of women and men have come together and started a blog, and I'm sure a few of them are critique partners as well. I've played around with the idea for a few weeks now of putting together a small group myself.

So, if this is something you might be interested in, you can email me privately at:

debracollins@tds.net

My genre is Contemporary Romance, but all is welcome!

"Surrender the Night" Free Book

2011-03-28T06:43:00.000-07:00

Hey Y'all! Thanks to Everyone who entered the giveaway. It's time to announce the winner. Drum roll, please, and the winner is: KATY Here we go with another great book to giveaway. "Surrender the Night" author MaryLu Tyndall Blurb: A Timid American farm girl at the mercy of the enemy... A Wounded British Sailor driven into hiding...Both are about to chance the course of History Forever. When British soldiers invade Baltimore amid the war of 1812, Rose McGuire, alone on her family farm, is easy prey fro a brutal lieutenant. In the midst of the attack, she's saved by british 2nd Lieutenant Alexander Reed. Will she now have to heal, as well as hide, this wounded enemy soldier? Alex hadn't meant to kill his superior or get shot in the process. Now badly wounded, he's at the mercy of this tomboy who obviously hates him. Can he trust her, or will she turn him over to the Americans? Rose is having trouble keeping Alex hidden from her family, the townspeople, and the man intent on courting her. Will the discovery of Alex's presence force her to accept an abhorrent proposal? As their love blooms, trouble looms, for the British are on the move again. This time, their target is the city of Washington. Will these young lovers at heart find themselves enemies at war? Remember to get your name in the hat twice, just mention in your comment you're a new or old follower...and that's it. FRIENDLY REMINDER: Please don't forget to leave your email address in with your comment, too, so I'll have a way to contact you if you win. Drawing will be held April, 9

The Lightkeeper's Daughter - Free Book

2011-03-10T11:48:00.001-08:00

WOW!!! What a great response to this giveaway. Thanks for all of your comments. I wish I had enough books to go around for everybody, but sadly I don't. Now, it's time to draw a winner...all the name are in the hat...shake, shake, shake... and the winner is: ELYSSA Hey Everyone! I have another great book to giveaway. THE LIGHTKEEPER'S DAUGHTER, author Colleen Coble. Blurb: With the lies of the past behind her, Addie finds love...and discovers her true Father. Addie Sullivan leads a quiet life in a nothern California lighthouse. She mourns the death of her father and endures her mother's bitterness, until the night a storm brings an injured stranger and a dark secret to her home. The man insists she is not who she thinks she is, but rather "Julia Eaton" the child long lost and feared dead by her wealthy family. Seizing the chance to be reunited with the Eatons, addie leaves her lighthouse home buy decides to keep her true identity a secret until they canunravel the mystery. Addie loves the Eatons' palatial home tucked away among the Califirnia redwood forests. She feels secure with the jovial family, adores the young boy who is her charge as governess, and finds romance with his father, John, a young widow. But sisister shadows overtake addie's joy. As dusty rooms and secret compartments give her clues about her past, Addie finds faith and a love she could never have guessed. To embrace the new world of promise is to risk her life; but to run away is to risk losing the greatest love she's ever known. As always, if you mention in your comment you're an old or new follower, your name will be added twice to the drawing. (PLEASE...make sure you leave your email address in with your comment, so I can get in contact with you if you're a winner. Thanks!) Drawing will be held March, 26

Sweet Baklava Free Download.

2011-03-10T11:13:00.000-08:00

"ATTENTION KINDLE USERS"

I just had to share some Great News with all of you. Right now over at Amazon, "Sweet Baklava" is the #1 Free download for Kindle.

"Michigan" by Gail Gaymer Martin

2011-02-28T08:47:00.000-08:00

Hey Y'all! Thanks to all of you who participated in the drawing. Now, it's time to announce the lucky winner of MICHIGAN by Gail Gaymer Martin. Congratulations goes to........ SPLASHESOFJOY Let's go back a few years and give away this wonderful book by Gail Gaymer Martin..."Michigan" MICHIGAN is a Pleasant Peninsulas for Romance, abound on Four complete Novels. Blurb: Can the heart be trusted? In diverse Michigan locations, four couples must each answer the same question: Will they allow God to lead in their love lives? Karen and Eric meet along the battle lines of a long-standing feud between their grandparents. Will they choose to take sides or to love their enemies? Mark, a youth director, cajoles Lana to give up her summer plans to go camping with teenagers. When a fight for control erupts, who will win? Sally, in a support group for the recently widowed, is drawn to Brad. But when her daughter becomes a wall between them, will she suffer another broken heart? Mystery and hardship fill Laine's life as she takes in an orphaned niece and befriends her new neighbor, Jeff. Who can she turn to when her life is threatened? Author Gail Gaymer Martin shares the love of her home state and her God, in four romances full of adventure, suspense, humor, and faith. As always as an added bonus, if you mention in your comment you're a new or old follower, your name will be added to the drawing twice. Drawing will be held March, 12

Review of "SWEET BAKLAVA" by Debby Mayne

2011-02-08T10:53:00.000-08:00

This is a review ONLY, Sweet Baklava will be released March 2011.

Wow!! Debby Mayne has done it again. I loved Sweet Baklava.

Debby is such a talented writer and she has an amazing way of bringing her characters to life. Once I picked up this book, it was impossible to put it down. I was swept up in this wonderful and tender romance from the first few pages until the last.
This is a book I would definitely recommend to all ages.

Paula Andrews and Nick Papadopoulos had fallen in love with each other in high school. But Nick became restless and didn't want to work in his family's sponge diving or restaurant businesses in the Greek community in Tarpon Springs, Florida. So he enlisted in the Air Force.

Now years later Paula and Nick both feels they are right where they want to be in their lives. Nick is happy in the military, and Paula owns her own candle and soap business, which is growing by leaps and bounds...but they both are missing one thing...true love.

Nick returns home on leave. The moment he sees Paula again, he knows he's still deeply in love with her. And, she feels the same way about him.

It doesn't take long before Nick realizes he wants Paula in his life forever, and doesn't want them to be apart again. He tells her he's thinking about not re-enlisting and staying in Tarpon Springs to be with her. Even though Paula wants him to stay, she knows he loves the military and she fears if he stays he will eventually grow to resent her.

With the help and preseverance of some meddling, but loving Papadolpoulos women (which I love all of them) and the undying love Nick and Paula has for each other... in the end, love finds a way!

Sweet Baklava was a wonderful read, and I look forward to reading Debby's next book.
And, as an extra bonus, many of the mouth-watering Greek recipes in the book, is listed in the back. I give this book 5 stars *****

Check out the book trailer http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TgOaOiyDyHI

If you're interested in the recipe, just hop on over to Debby's blog for the full recipe.

http://www.debbymayne.blogspot.com/2011/02/easy-baklava-recipe.html

Baklava is a sweet dessert with phyllo dough, pecans, sugar, honey, etc... I will be making this dish myself and I'll be sharing the recipe and pictures at a later date.

"Raider's Heart" Free book

2011-01-30T08:01:00.001-08:00

Hey y'all!
Thanks to all of you for visiting my blog! It's time to announce the winner of Raider's Heart. And, the winner is....

SYLVIA
Here we go with another great book to give away. "Raider's Heart" author Marcia Gruver.

Blurb: A silly little lamp has turned Dawsey Wilkes's life upside down.

Hooper and Duncan McRae grew up hearing their father's tales of the little golden lamp that eluded his possession. Hooper, always the daring brother, seizes a once-in-a-lifetime chance when passing the Wilkes house to get a peek at the legendary lamp. But simple curiosity could open a pandora's box of trouble for the McRaes.
Whisked from her opulent home in the middle of the night, Dawsey Wilkes wakes up deep in the Carolina swamps, the prisoner of a rowdy family who support the infamous Henry Berry Lowry, a vigilante intent on bringing justice to the poor.
Wooed by the competitive McRae brothers and shunned by their sister Ellie, Dawsy remains intent on getting back home to her ailing father. But has it been God's plan all along to unite these two very different families?

AS always, if you're a new or old follower, just mention it on your comment and your name will be enter twice in the drawing.

Drawing will be held February 12

The Raven Saint... book giveaway

2011-01-18T19:05:00.000-08:00

Hello All! Thanks to all of you who left a comment and entered the contest. I hope everyone is having a wonderful beginning to a brand new year!! Now it's time to announce the winner....and the winner is...... KATY I have another great book to giveaway. "The Raven Saint" author M.L. Tyndall. Blurb: What has she done to deserve a fate worse than death? Grace Westcott has spent her entire life serving God and helping the poor-not to mention trying to save the souls of her two wayward sisters. But while on an errand of mercy, she is kidnapped by a french mercenary and told she will be sold to a Spanish Don in Colombia. Determined to hold on to her faith and see God in every situation, she believes she must have been sent to help someone find God's love. But no one will listen to her pleas, warnings, and prayers. When Grace's situation grows far worse than she could imagine, she is forced to face her own human weaknesses. But she isn't prepared to face her biggest weakness of all-falling in love with the nefarious captain, Rafe Dubois. Will Grace discover God's purpose for this harrowing journey? And what will she do when she realizes His purpose for her is not to redeem the captain and his crew, but herself? As always...if you mention in your comment you're a follower your name will go into the hat twice. Drawing will be held January, 29

Love Inspired "Yukon Cowboy" Free book

2011-01-05T10:44:00.001-08:00

Thanks to everyone who joined in on the giveaway. And now it's time to announce the winner......Congrats goes to---

CINDY W.

Hey Y'all! I hope everyone is having a great start to the New Year!

I've rested up from the holidays, so now it's time to get back on track and
give away another great book.
Love Inspired "Yukon Cowboy" by Debra Clopton.

Blurb: Wedding Bells Are Ringing in Alaska.

Hometown girl Bethany Marlow moves back to treasure Creek to open a wedding planning shop for all the new brides. But when her former boss asks her to help lead a wilderness tour before she sets up shop, she can't refuse.
When she finds out the lead guide is Nate McMann, the man who broke her heart, she's thrown into a tailspin. Nate's now a gruff rancher, hiding his heart-and a secret.
Guiding lovey-dovey newlyweds and a sweet family have Bethany and her Yukon cowboy questioning everything they thought was true. Except their love.

(Isn't the cowboy on the cover a cutie?)

As always if you're a new or old follower, just mention in your comment you are a follower and your name will be added to the hat twice.

Drawing will be held January, 15

Kindle Time!

2011-01-05T08:02:00.001-08:00

My wonderful husand surprised me this Christmas with a Kindle!

I still love the printed book to hold in my hand, and I know my bookshelf will continue to fill up, but...I love my Kindle!

I have downloaded so many, many books since December, 25 and downloaded a few more this morning. I don't know if I'll ever be able to read all of them...but I sure will try.

Now, for some great news!!! Amazon has so many free Kindle downloads, I just had to share a few with my wonderful blogger friends.

"The Healer's Apprentice"...Melanie Dickerson

"Fools Rush in" ... Janice Thompson

"Happily Ever After"...Susan May Warren

"Always the Baker, Never the Bride" ... Sandra D. Bricker

"Love On a Dime" ... Cara Lynn James

"When Night Falls"... Margaret Daley

"A Gift of Grace: A Novel"... Amy Clipton

"Homespun Bride"...Jillian Hart

"The Centurion's Wife"... Janette Oke & David Bunn

"Daughter of Joy"...Kathleen Morgan

"The Apothecary's Daughter"...Julie Klassen

"The Justice Game"... Randy Singer

That's just to mention a few!!!!!

Happy New Year !

2011-01-01T07:23:00.000-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR !!!!! I hope everyone has a wonderful and prosperous New year ! Good-Bye 2010....Welcome 2011

Wanda E. Brunstetter -- 3 book giveaway!!

2010-12-19T08:50:00.001-08:00

Hey All!

Thanks to all of you who participated of the contest. Shaking the hat, reaching in, and the winner is......

PEGG THOMAS

With my Jingle Those Bells Christmas giveaway going on, I didn't have a chance to celebrate my 100 followers !!!!
So, now my chance, I'd like to say Thank You to all of my followers by having a three book giveaway...all by Wanda E. Brunstetter.

Blurb: LYDIA'S CHARM
Lydia King is suddenly a widow and moves her son and herself to Charm, Ohio, to be close to her mother and help her grandfather. But is her heart ready for romance when gifts begin appearing on her porch from a mysterious source?
Menno Troyer, a furniture store owner, is also recently widowed and the father of four energetic boys. He has come to realize that, though he doesn't think he's ready to love again, his sons need a mother.
Levi Sturzman, another newcomer to the area, is the only one in the family not handicapped br drarffism, and he has dedicated his life to caring for them. Though determined never to marry, he is always willing to be a help to others. Will the anonymous gifts left for Lydia bring her hope for a new life? And when tragedy befalls her yet again, will the mysterious gift giver be there to support her?

Blurb: A COUSIN'S PROMISE (Book 1, Indiana Cousins)
When a group of eight cousins and friends leaves their Indiana Amish community for a weekend getaway, a horrific accident brings them home forever changed.
Permanently disabled by the accident, wayne Lambright struggles to take care of himself. He can't inagine being able to be the kind of husband his fiancee, Loraine Miller, needs. Determined to sacrifice his happiness to give her a better life, he breaks their engagement.
Loraine refuses to believe wayne doesn't love her anymore. But when her old boyfriend Jake Beechy returns from exploring the English world, Wayne does everything in his power to help Jake regain Loraine's love.
For better or worse, Loraine wants to be Wayne's wife, but if he won't agree, should she promise her love to Jake? How will god work to bring Loraine the true desires of her heart?

Blurb: A COUSIN'S PRAYER (book 2, Indiana Cousins)
A year after her boyfriend was killed, a traumatized Katie Miller returns to her Amish community in Indiana, struggling with depression and panic attacks. Will she ever find the courage to face her inner demons?
Freeman Bontrager has been interested in Katie ever since they were in school. Now that Katie is home, Freeman finds excuses to spend time at the Miller house. Is there any future for him with this emotionally scarred woman, or should he turn to the fair beauty Eunice Byler?
When a mysteriuos package appears on kates doorstep, Freeman's loyalty is tested. Will he win her trust only to lose standing with her parents?
What will it take for Katie to overcome her fears and dare to live-and love again?

ALL THREE BOOKS GOES TO ONE WINNER!!!!!

To my followers....If you mention in your comment you're a follower, your name will added not once but twice!
One for leaving a comment....and two for being a follower.

Drawing will be held, January 1 HAPPY NEW YEAR !!!!

"The Judge Who Stole Christmas"...giveaway

2010-12-16T10:16:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas, Everyone!! Thanks to all of you who left a comment for a chance to win "The Judge Who Stole Christmas"
Now, it's time to announce the winner...and the winner is...

DEBORAH M.

I just had to get one more Christmas book in to give away before Christmas.
"The Judge Who Stole Christmas" by Randy Singer.

Blurb: A Yuletide Free-for-All!
It starts innocently enough in the sleepy town squre of Possum, Virginia. But it ends up as a spectacular national scandal: Can a federal judge outlaw Christmas?

Thomas Hammond and his wife play Joseph and mary in the annual live nativity scene. But a judge rules the display unconstititional-and a Christmas showdown ensues. Thomas refuses to abide by the court order...and ends up in jail. From the courtrooms in Virginia to the talk show of New York City , the battle escalates into a national media spectacle.
Caught in the middle is law student Jasmine Woodfaulk-assigned to represent Thomas as part of her school's legal-aid clinic.
Whatever happened to Peace on earth?
Only a surprising series of events-nearly as humbling and unexpecting as the origins of the season itself-can reconcile a stubborn father, a crusading law student, and a recalcitrant judge.

The Judge Who Stole Christmas, by award-winning author Randy Singer, is a charming, warm, and thought-provoking Christmas tale that explores in a fresh way the real reason for the season.

Drawing will be held December, 19 Just in time for Christmas!

Merry Christmas to All!!!

2010-12-11T09:17:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas Everyone!!

Before I announce the winner, I'd like to say "Thank You" to all of you who participated in my "Jingle Those Bells" Christmas giveaway. And, because of the Christmas giveaways I have reached and surpassed 100 followers...YEA!!!

Now, it's time to announce the winner...drum roll, please...and the winner is... NIGHTOWL

"Jingle Those Bells" Grand Prize !!!!

2010-11-21T14:28:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas, Everyone !!

Here we are at the end of my "Jingle Those Bells" Christmas giveaway. Here's the list of the four anthologies included in this giveaway!

"CHRISTMAS HOMECOMING" authors Debby Mayne, Paige Winship Dooly, Elizabeth Goddard, and Elizabeth Ludwig.

"CHRISTMAS MAIL-ORDER BRIDES" authors Susan Page Davis, Vickie McDonough, Therese Stenzel, and Carrie Turansky.

"A WOODLAND CHRISTMAS" authors Ramona K. Cecil, Darlene Franklin, Janelle Mowery, and Tamela Handcock Murray.

"A DOOR COUNTY CHRISTMAS" authors Eileen Key, Becky Melby, Rachael Phillips, and Cynthia Ruchti.

Here's the list of the Christmas goodies:
Wire gift basket
6 snowflake ornaments
1 pack of 100 gift tags
2 packs of gift sacks
1 pack of 10 Christmas cards
Magnet christmas pad
7 count-mini bows and ribbons
1- pack 3 Designer Pens
1 can of Luxury Wafters
1 small stocking
1 Christmas clip-on
2 packs Nestle Hot Cocoa with marshmallows
2 candy cane pens
2 candy canes
8 Decorative Bows
Several cut-outs and tags
1 small pack of Hershey's Kisses (every woman needs a little chocolate)

SPICED PECANS

3 cups of pecans
1/2 cup sugar
1 egg white, lightly beaten
1 tablespoon water
1/2 teas. ground cloves
1 teas. ground cinnamon
1/2 teas. ground nutmeg
1/2 teas. salt

Preheat ovento 350. Line baking pan with aluminum foil. In a small bowl beat egg whites with water. Stir in pecans, mixing until well moistened. In a small bowl mix together sugar, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Sprinkle over pecans. Bke in oven for 30 minutes stirring once or twice. Be careful not to overbake or burn nuts.

Remember if you mention in your comment you're a new or old follower, your name will be added twice.
Drawing will be held December, 11

"Jingle Those Bells" Week Seven...ends November, 27

2010-11-08T08:11:00.000-08:00

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL !!!

Here's the list of the things included in the week seven Christmas giveaway.

Thanks to all who's entered the contest. I enjoyed reading all of your comments. It's time to announced the winner......and the winner is...

KARENK

"FOREVER CHRISTMAS" by Christine Lynxwiler.

"CHRISTMAS LOVE AT LAKE TAHOE" authors Lena Nelson Dooley, Jeanie Smith Cash, Jean Kincaid and Jeri Odell.

3 sheets of gift stickers

1-4 pack Christmas sacks

1-10 pack Christmas cards

7 count- Mini Bows and Ribbon

Small snowman stocking

Candy cane pen

Several Christmas cut-outs & tags

CHOCOLATE-HONEY SQUARE

1/3 cup butter

1/2 baking cocoa

1/3 cup honey

3 cups mini marshmallows

1 tsp. vanilla extract

4 cups crispy rice cereal

1 cup peanuts

Melt butter in large saucepan, stir in cocoa, honey and marshmallows. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth and marshmallows has melted. remove from heat and stir in vanilla, cereal and peanuts. Press lightly into greased 9x9 baking dish. Cut into squares when cooled. Yum !!!

You know the drill, if you mention in your comment that you're a new or old follower, your name will be added twice to the drawing.

Drawing will be held November, 27

"Jingle Those Bells" Week Six...ends November 20

2010-11-08T07:33:00.001-08:00

Hey Y'all!

Here we are into week six of my "Jingle Those Bells" Christmas giveaway. I hope everyone is having a good time. I know I sure am!

Thanks to all of you for your comments. Now, it's time to announce the winner of this week's giveaway..... Congratulations to...LINDA KISH

Here's the list of things included in this week's giveaway. The two book are christmas anthologies.

"A BLUE & GRAY CHRISTMAS" authors Vickie McDonough, Lauralee Bliss, Tamela Hancock Murray, and Carrie Turansky.

"LONE STAR CHRISTMAS" authors Pameal griffin, Cathy Marie Hake, Vickie McDonough, and Kathleen Y'Barbo.

1-4 pack Gift Snowman Sacks

2 sheets of Gift stickers

Small snowman stocking

8 pack of Christmas cards

Candy cane pen

Several Christmas cut-outs and tags

Here's a great cookie recipe for your Cookie Swap party.

M&M COOKIES

1 cup shortening

1 cup of light brown sugar

1/2 cup of granulated sugar

2 eggs

2 tsp. vanilla flavoring

2 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 tsp. baking soda

1tsp. salt

1 1/2 cups M&M's

Cream together shortening, sugars, eggs and vanilla. Add in flour, baking soda and salt. Mix well. Stir in 1/2 cup of M&M's. Drop by teaspoon on ungreased cookie sheet. Decorate top of cookies with remaining M&M's. Bake at 375 for 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown. Enjoy!

As always, if you'll mention in your comment you're a new or old follower, your name will be added twice.

Drawing will be held Nov. 20

Contest...Win a free Bible!

2010-11-06T09:15:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!

There's an awesome contest going on over at my dear friend, Debby Mayne's blog, I wanted to pass along to y'all...

http://debbymayne.blogspot.com/2010/11/contest-reminder.html

Debby, along with Kay Strom has come up with up this contest. If you'd love a chance to win a autographed copy of their latest novel AND a copy of "The Common English Bible New Testament" just release from Abingdon Press. Then just hop on over to Debby's blog, leave a comment with your favorite Bible scripture and why... that's it!

Please don't leave comment here. You have to go to Debby's blog to be enter. And while you're there tell her Debra sent you!

(P.S....One of Debby's books "Christmas Homecoming" is included in the December's GRAND PRIZE giveaway!)

"Jingle Thoses Bells" Week Five...ends November, 13

2010-11-02T05:55:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!

Thanks to all of you, for your comments and I'm glad everyone is enjoying the recipe I've included. I don't have enough giveaways to go around so the least I could do is to share one of my favorite recipes with everyone!

Now it's time to announce the winner...and the winner is...

TRINITY ROSE

I can't believe I'm already into week five of my Christmas giveaway.

The two anthologies books in this weeks giveaway are:

"WILD WEST CHRISTMAS" authors Kathleen Y'Barbo, Lena Nelson Dooley, Darlene Franklin, and Vickie McDonough.

"CHRISTMAS DREAMS" authors Rebecca Germany, Mary Hawkins, Veda Boyd Jones, and Melanie Panagiotopoulos.

1 handmade book purse

2 gift bags

2 sheets of gift tags

3 Whimsical bell ornaments

1 small candy cane stocking

1 candy cane pen

Several Christmas cut-outs and tags

ALL OF THIS GOES TO ONE WINNER!!

Starting this week I'd like to share a few of my favorite cookie recipes with everyone. Every Christmas me and my family goes caroling around our neightborhood, and this is one of the cookies we share with our neighbors.

CHEWY & NUTTY COOKIES

1 cup of sugar

1 cup of brown sugar

1 cup of shortening

2 eggs

2 cups of flour

2 cups oatmeal

1 pkg. chocolate chips

1 cup nuts, chopped

1 cup of raisins

1 tsp.vanilla

Blend together sugars, shortening, eggs and vanilla. Mix in flour. Fold in oats, nuts, and raisins. Drop by teaspoonfuls onto lightly oiled or sprayed baking sheet. Bake at 350 until lightly browned. Yum !!

Remember if you mention in your comment you're a follower, your name will be added to the drawing twice.

Drawing will be held, November 13

"Jingle Those Bells" Week Four...Ends November 6

2010-10-26T12:14:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!
Thanks to all of you who has joined in on my Christmas giveaways. I wished I had enough prizes to go around for everyone, but sadly I don't.
But, remember there are three more weekly giveaways until the GRAND PRIZE, the begining of December.

Now it's time to announce the winner...and the winner this week is...

WANDA
Welcome to week four of my Christmas Giveaway. Here's a list of the things included in this giveaway.

Two Love Inspired books are:
"Mistletoe Prayers" by Marta Perry & Betsy St. Amant
"His Christmas Bride" by Dana Corbit
2 book purses
2 gift bags
2 sheets of gift tags
3 Whimsical bell ornaments
Small candy cane stocking
candy cane pen
Several Christmas cut-outs & tags

Blurb for "His Christmas Bride"
A Blank Christmas list. The only gift Dylan Warren used to want was Jenna Scott's love. But his former childhood best friend broke his heart. Now, their matchmaking mothers insist the Warren and Scott clan celebrate the holiday together. Suddenly he and Jenna are paired on a mission to bring Christmas to a family who lost everything but each other. Jenna's kindness to the displaced little boys reminds Dylan why he loved her. Could joyful jingle bells soon be joined by the chime of wedding bells?

Blurb for "Mistletoe Prayers"
(Marta Perry The Bodine Family Christmas)
Left at the altar on Christmas Eve, Annabel Bodine has lost her holiday spirit. When her big brother brings home handsome Coast Guard Travis McCall, can she summon the courage to open her heart to love for the holidays--and maybe for a lifetime?

(Betsy St. Amant The Gingerbread Season)
Allie James returns to her hometown in need of a holiday job. Never did she expect old boyfriend Jordan Walker to hire her as his secretary! Years ago Jordan shredded her heart like wrapping paper. Now he must convince Allie that all he wants for Christmas is her love.

Remember if you'll mention in your comment you're a follower (new or old) your name will be added again to the drawing.
Drawing will be held November, 6

"Jingle Those Bells" Christmas Giveaway---Week Three....ends Oct. 30

2010-10-21T11:05:00.000-07:00

Hey Gang!

I'd like to say thanks to everyone who's joined in on my Christmas giveaway. Now, it's time to announce this weeks winner...drum roll, please...and the winner is....

PATSY
ATTENTION Patsy, the email address you left in your comment failed, please email me your mailing address (my email address is on the right of the screen) Thanks!

Here's the list of things included in week #3 of my "Jingle Those Bells" Christmas giveaway!
The two books are: Both books are Love Inspired.
"MISTLETOE REUNION" by Anna Schimdt
"HOMEFRONT HOLIDAY" by Jillian hart
2 Handmade book purses
Set of three Whimsical bell ornaments
2 gift bags
Small candy cane stocking
Candy cane pen
Several Christmas cut-outs & tags
(ALL OF THIS GOES TO ONE WINNER!!!)

Blurb for "Mistletoe Reunion"
His former wife is on his flight home for the holidays? Divorced dad Tom Wallace knows their young daughter is behind this "conincidence."
He also knows Norah Wallace still makes his heart skip a beat. When a snowstorm strands the trio in the airport for the weekend, Tom rediscovers how truly blessed he used to be. Once they're finally in Wisconsin for Christmas, two sets of grandparents are suddenly generous with the mistletoe. One kiss leads to another. And soon the entire family has the same sweet Christmas wish.

Blurb for "Homefront Holiday"
A heart full of love for the orphaned boy saved from a war-torn country? Check. Adoption forms filled out? Check. yet M.A.S.H surgeon Mike Montgomery is barely back on U.S. soil when his plans are squashed. Someone else has already petitioned to adopt little Ali:Sarah Alpert, the boy's foster mother-and Mike's former fiancee'. Sarah broke his heart, but he won't break hers by sticking around. Until a little boy puts his holiday-for the mom and dad of his dreams-into adorable action.

Remember on ALL my giveaways if you let me know in your comment if you're a follower (new or old) your name will be added to the hat twice.

Drawing will be held October 30

"Jingle Those Bells" Christmas Giveaway--Week Two

2010-10-17T12:11:00.001-07:00

"Jingle Those Bells" Christmas Giveaway --- Week Two

WOW!! What a great response to this giveaway. Thanks everyone for each of your comments. It's time to announce this week's winner, and the name drawn is.......

DEBBIE

DON'T FORGET TO COME BACK ON MONDAY FOR WEEK THREE'S GIVEAWAY!!

Hey everyone!
Here's the list of everything included in the next Christmas giveaway.

Love Inspired "Together for the Holidays" by Margaret Daley
Love Inspired "The Perfect Gift" by Lenora Worth
Handmade Book Purse
Four gifts bags
Three Whimsical bell Ornaments
Snowman bookmark
Several christmas cut-outs
Candy cane pen
Blurb: "Together for the Holidays" Her Holiday Hope.

A single mother with a traumatic past, Lisa Morgan only wants to raise her son with love and values. But lately the boy is struggling. When his basketball coach becomes a reluctant role model, Lisa is relieved. Until she learns that david Russell is also a cop.
She's not ready to share her past-or her heart. and neith is the world-weary detective. yet as christmas comes closer, the true meaning of the Holidays brings them together in ways they never dared dream.

Blurb: The Perfect Gift. "Daddy, can we keep her?

So asks widowed rancher Rory Branagan's six-year-old when they find a pretty stranger sleeping on thier sofa.
Disoriented after a car accident, Goldie Rios is definitey not staying. It might be Rory's job to rescue wildlife like armadillo and alligators, but damsels in distress are another story.
Yet when Goldie's family heirloom locket goes missing, the branagans spend the Holiday season helping her search for it on the farm. And in the process they all find the perfect gift: a family that feels just right.

ALL THIS GOES TO ONE WINNER!!!!

Just like always, if you mention in your comment you're a follower your name will be added twice.

Drawing will be held October 23

"Jingle Those Bells" Christmas Giveaway--Week One

2010-10-10T15:03:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!
Thanks to all who enter to win. I enjoyed everyone's comments. Now, before I announce the winner, remember this is just the beginning of my Christmas Giveaways. I'll post week two Monday. So, if you're not the winner today, you'll still have plenty of chances to win on future contests.

Now with that being said it's time to announce the very first winner of my "Jingle Those Bells" Christmas Giveaway is...

CATHY W
This is the begining of my "Jingle Those Bells" Christmas Giveaway.

Here's a list of everything included:

Two Christmas books-
Love Inspired "The Soldier's Holiday Vow" by Jillian Hart
Love Inspired "His Holiday Bride" by Jillian Hart

Handmade book purse (keep your pages safe from folds and tears)
2-holiday gift bags
Snowman bookmark
3- Whimsical Bells
Christmas cut-outs, name tags, and a candy cane pen.

AND ALL OF THIS GOES TO ONE WINNER!!!!

Blurb: "The Soldier's Holiday Vow"
Trapped in a mine shaft with a little girl, September Stevens prays for someone to save them. When help arrives in the form of army ranger Mark hawkins, the best friend of her late fiance, they both feel God's hand at work. Together they help each other rebuild their lives.
As they let the spirit of the holidays into their hearts, feelings of new love start to take hold. But September is afraid to risk her heart on another soldier. Until Mark offers a Christmas vow, one that could last a lifetime.

Blurb: "His Holiday Bride"

Big-city sheriffs don't belong in tiny wild Horse, Wyoming. At least that's what rancher Autumn Granger thinks when handsome Ford Sherman sweeps into town and sets his sights on her. A country cowgirl, she can't possibly be his match. Like most newcomers, he'll eventually get restless with small-town life and leave it-and her-behind. But when rustlers attack her family's ranch, Ford helps her protect Granger territory.
She finds herself hoping that he really is inWild Horse to stay. Could her holiday wish of a happily ever after with this handsome lawman come true?

When you leave a comment just mention you're a follower and your name will automatically be enter a second time.
Drawing will be held October, 16

"Jingle Those Bells" Christmas Giveaway

2010-10-03T13:42:00.000-07:00

Jingle bells, Jingle bells, Jingle All the way!!!

To celebrate Christmas a little early this year, I'm have a

"JINGLE THOSE BELLS GREAT CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAY" Starting October 11

I'll be giving away two Christmas books each Saturday with a little something extra included.

Then to end my JINGLE THOSE BELLS, giveaway with a bang.

The begining of December I'll be giving away four, yes that's right FOUR, anthologies to one lucky winner!

The first listing will be posted October, 11. Here's the first two books.........

Jillian Hart's (Love Inspired) The Soldier's Holiday Vow

Jillian Hart's (Love Inspired) His Holiday Bride

"A Family for Thanksgiving" book giveaway

2010-09-28T04:54:00.000-07:00

HAPPY AUTUMN !!
Thanks everyone for joining in and sharing your favorite season with me. I wished I had enough books to go around for everybody, but sadly I don't. Now it's time to announce the winner, and the winner is...

WENDY
Fall is my favorite season! My family and I usually load up in the car and go for a drive up into the Lookout Mountains.
The scenic drive is just breath-taking with all the blazing colors of the leaves. Oranges, reds, and yellows. BEAUTIFUL!!

The cooler temperatures lets us know the holidays are on the way.
With Thanksgiving right around the corner, I thought I'd have a giveaway with a wonderful book "A Family for Thanksgiving" by Patricia Davids.

Blurb: The Child She Always Wanted.
After a devastating tornado ripped through High Plains, a two-year-old was found wandering all alone. Foster mother Nicki Appleton took in the little girl, her heart bursting with love and prayers. Now the storms aftermath has brought home the man Nicki once expected to marry, and Clay Logan claims to be a changed cowboy. But with her energy focused on a child she may not be able to keep, is there room for another kind of love in Nicki's heart for Thanksgiving?

Question of the day: Tell me what your favorite season is, and I'll added your name again.

And as always, if you're a follower or become a follower if you mention it in your comment your name will be added to the drawing yet again.
Drawing will be held October, 9

"FIT TO BE TIED" Robin Lee Hatcher - giveaway

2010-09-20T05:08:00.000-07:00

Thanks everyone for all of your comments. I've just pulled the winnering name frome the hat, and the winner is...
KATIE G.

Hey Y'all! I have another great book to giveaway. Robin Lee Hatcher's
"FIT TO BE TIED" The sisters of Bethlehem Springs.
Blurb: Who says a woman can't have it all?
Cleo Arlington dresses like a cowboy, is fearless and fun-loving and can ride, rope, and wrangle a horse as well as any man. In 1916, however, those talents aren't what most young women aspire to. But Cleo isn't most women. Twenty-nine years old and single, Cleo loves life on her father's Idaho ranch. Still, she hopes someday to marry and have children.
Enter Sherwood Statham, an English aristocrat whose father has sentenced him to a year of work in America to "straighten him out" Sherwood, who expected a desk job at a posh spa, isn't happy to be stuck on a Idaho ranch. And he had no idea how to handle Cleo, who's been challenged with transforming this uptight playboy into a down-home cowboy.
Just about everything either of them says or does leaves the other, well, fit to be tied. And though Cleo believes God's plan for her includes a husband, it couldn't possibly be Sherwood Statham. Could it?
As always, mention in your comment you're a follower and your name will be enter twice. Drawing will be held October, 2

To those of you going to the ACFW Conference this weekend!

2010-09-14T07:31:00.000-07:00

To All of you going to the ACFW Conference this weekend... I pray that all of you will have a safe trip there and a safe return, and I hope you have an AWESOME time !!!

"The Healer's Apprentice" Book Giveaway

2010-09-08T17:14:00.000-07:00

Thanks everyone for all your comments and now it's time to announce the winner! Drum roll, please...and the winner is......

JAN MARIE

Hello Everyone!

I have three words to say about this book. WOW!! WOW!! WOW!!

I give it 5 stars ***** I Loved it!

From the very first sentence... The townspeople of Hagenheim craned their necks as they peered down the cobblestone street, hoping to catch a glimpse of the Duke of Hagenheim's two handsome sons.

Until the last words (which I can not give to you) I was hooked.

I completely fell in love with the characters from the very begining. I felt like I was a part of the story with each turn of the page. The story never slowed it's pace, the more I read the better the story got.

Even though it's consider a Young Adult, any one of any age will fall in love with Rose and Lord Hamlin. I still sigh each time I think of each scene of the two of them together.***sigh***

I can honestly say this will be a book I will ALWAYS remember. It's a story of romance, duty, honor, intrigue, faith, and more, all wrapped up in one book.

This is Melanie's debut novel, I can't wait to see what she writes next, I'll be the first in line for a copy.

Here's the Blurb: TWO HEARTS. ONE HOPE.
Rose had been appointed as a healer's apprentice at Hagenheim Castle, a rare opportunity for a woodcutter's daughter like her. While she often feels uneasy at the sight of blood, Rose is determined to prove herself capable. Failure will mean returning home to marry an aging bachelor her mother has chosen for her-a bloated, disgusting merchant who makes Rose feel ill.

When Lord Hamlin, the furture duke, is injuried, it is Rose who must tend to him.As she works to heal his wound she begins to understand emotions she never felt before and wonders if he feels the same. But falling in love is forbidden, as Lord Hamlin is betrothed to a mysterious woman in hiding. As Rose's life spins toward confusion, she must take steps on a journey to discover her own destiny.

******************************

Now about the giveaway... I had the privilege of going to Melanie's booksigning in Huntsville, Al. this past Saturday. And I have an autograph copy of "The Healer's Apprentice" for one lucky winner!
As always, your name will be enter twice into the drawing if you're a follower of my blog and you mention it in your comment.

Drawing will be held September, 18

"Cattleman's Courtship" Carolyne Aarsen (Free Book)

2010-09-06T18:48:00.000-07:00

Hey All! It's time to announce the winner . Comgratulations to...

MISSKALLIE2000

I have another great book to give away. Love Inspired "Cattleman's Courtship" by Carolyne Aarsen.

Blurb: Reunited with the Rancher.

Veterinarian Cara Morrison is planning another walk down the aisle with her ex-fiance--except she isn't the bride and Nicholas Chapman isn't the groom.

With their best friends' wedding looming, the last thing maid of honor Cara wants is to rekindle a romance with the best man, Nicholas. But when he needs her help to unravel the illness that's descending on his herd, she discovers that the sparks between her and Nicholas still burn bright. Is it possible to heal the wounds of the past and start over with the cattleman she never stopped loving?

As always, if you're a follower of my blog, and you mention it in your comment your name will automatically be enter twice.

Drawing will be held September, 11

"Courting Ruth" by Emma Miller (Free Book)

2010-08-28T09:47:00.000-07:00

Hello Y'all!

I'd like to say thank you for everyone who enter the drawing on a chnace to win "Courting Ruth"
And, now it's time to announce the winner, and the is:

MOLLY (Buukluvr81)

Here's another great book to giveaway. Love Inspired "Courting Ruth" by Emma Miller.

Blurb: A Plain Woman...And A Wild Man?

Amish widow Hannah Yoder prays her daughters will each find a husband someday. Still, sensible Ruth believes it's God's will that she stay home and help care for her younger sisters. But when a handsome young man comes to Kent County, Ruth starts to rethink her plans.

Not yet a part of the church, Eli Lapp is allowed to run wild. Yet something in Ruth's sweet smile and gentle manner makes him yearn to settle down-with her at his side.

Can Eli convince her that their lives should be entwined together on God's path?

(Hannah's Daughters: Seeking Love, family and faith in Amish country)

Hint: You can earn another chance to get your name in the hat, if you mention in your comment you are a follower, your name will be added twice.

Drawing will be held September, 4

WINNER!!!

2010-08-28T08:17:00.001-07:00

Hey Y'all! Thanks everyone for visiting my blog and entering my giveaway!

Now, it's time to announce the winner of MaryLu's book "Surrender the Heart" and the name drawn from the hat is......

ANNE PAYNE

"The Healer's Apprentice" Book Signing

2010-08-16T15:06:00.000-07:00

A Book Signing Announcement:

My friend Melanie Dickerson is the author of "The Healer's Apprentice" which will be release September 1, 2010.

The book signing event for the "Healer's Apprentice" is

Date: September 4

Time: 12:00 - 2:00

Location: Lifeway Christian bookstore in Huntsville, Alabama

If you's like to see the book trailer, please visit Melanie's blog at : http://melaniewrites.blogspot.com/

Also...There's an awesome review of this book over at Nora St. Laurent's "Finding Hope Through Fiction" blog: http://psalm516.blogspot.com/ Head on over an check it out.

Coming in September I will have a copy of "The Healer's Apprentice" to give away here on my blog!

"Surrender the Heart" by MaryLu Tyndall

2010-08-16T11:47:00.000-07:00

Hey ya'll! I have another great to book to give away. "Surrender the Heart" by MaryLu Tyndall.

Blurb:

A mistrustful young lady desperate to save her family...A guilt-driven man desperate to please his... Both caught on the brink of a war that could change the course of history forever.

On the brink of the war of 1812, marianne denton must marry to unlock her inheritance. Without the money, her mother can't receive medical care and her sister will be destitute. But Noah Brenin needs to sail his cargo to England before the war commences in order to prove his worth to his father and make enough money so he won't have to marry at all.

When Noah walks out on their engagement party, Marianne chases him down and ends up on his merchantman out at sea. The situation worsens when Noah's ship encounters a British man-of-war and the coupke impressed into the British navy.

While a young lad's prophecy of destiny looms over them both. Marianne and Noah are forced to face their darkest fears as they desperately try to escape and fulfill their destinies-destinies that could change the course of the war and history forever.

How to get your name in the hat twice----if you're a follower or become a follower, just mention it in your comment and your name will be enter twice.

Drawing will be held August, 28

The Guardian's Honor ... Giveaway

2010-08-05T10:27:00.000-07:00

I'd like to say "Thanks" to everyone who enter the drawing for The Guardians Honor. Sadly, I only have one book to give away and the lucky winner is.....

Cindy W

Hey Everyone! I have another awesome book to give away.

Love Inspired "The Guardian's Honor" Author: Marta Perry.

Blurb:

His Most Personal Mission. Coast Guard officer Adam Bodine finally finds his long-vanished great uncle. But the secretive elderly man has adopted some new kin...single mother Cathy Norwood and her disabled little boy. Adam is grateful when Cathy convinces his relative to reunite with the Bodines. Until he learns why she's so eager. Though his heartstrings are tugged by their plight, he knows he doesn't deserve them in his life--not with his past. Unless one big extened family can teach Lieutenant Bodine something about love and honor.

The Bodine family: A Southern family finds their way home to love--and each other.

As always...If you are a follower or become a new follower, just mention it in your comment and your name will automatically be entered twice.

Drawing will be held August, 14

I Did It !

2010-07-27T19:40:00.000-07:00

Hello All! I have some exciting news I wanted to share with everyone. I just submitted my first manuscript "Cowgirls Don't Cry" to an agent! YAY!!
After appling some great suggestions, and doing some (re)editing and fine-tuning to my book...I finally submitted it.

It's been the most amazing journey and if you have a minute I would like to share it with you.
I've been writing since I was thirteen years old. I remember when all the other girls my age were out doing what typical teenage girls do, I was hid away in my room and filling pages and pages of those Happily Ever After Romantic love stories. And, through the years it became more and more a part of my life.

But, being published, well that's what I considered... just a dream. If someone would've told me five years ago, I'd be where I am today I would've just laugh and gave them a "Yeah, right!"
I am still amazed, when I look at where I am today, compared to where I was just a few years ago.
If I never get published (but I sure hope I do) I'm still rejoicing every step of the way. I'm doing what I love to do!

One thing that has help me more than anything is, I had the opportunity to go to ACFW conference last year in Denver, Colorado. I met some of the most...AMAZING, WONDERFUL, EXTRAORDINARY, and PRECIOUS women I've ever met in my life.

Some of them don't even know what a impact they made on my life. I don't have time to list them all, but God knows who they are and I pray he blesses each and every one of them.

Well, that's my moment in the sun...I had to share just a little piece of heart!

Black Hills Blessings Free Book

2010-07-06T14:57:00.000-07:00

Hello Evereyone! I have another great book to giveaway.

"Black Hills Blessings" Three-in-one-collection by Mary Connealy.

Blurb:

The Ultimate Love-Your-Neighbor Challenge. Three strong-willed women come face-to-face with umlikely loves in south Dakota.

Buffy Lange has finally realized her dream of managing a huge buffalo ranch. But when she and her free ranging bison come up against the unfriendly territory of local ranchers, disaster looms. Will cattleman Wyatt Shaw succeed in ousting this newcomer from the plains, or will they dicover some common ground?

Emily Johannson faces the ultimate love-thy-neighbor challenge when a hostile Jake hanson starts living in a derelict house in the woodlands behind her ranch. Jake just wants to left alone-and Emily would do just that if she didn't need to keep saving his worthless hide. Will an inexplicable attraction draw them together, or will circumstances pull them apart?

Just when Jeanie Davidson starts getting her life back together, her ex-husband, Michael, reappears, determined to make things right. Will they ever be able to trust each other again?

Can these Dakota neighbors find common ground? Who will be left standing with hearts intact once the dust settles?

If you follow my blog just mention it in your comment and you'll automatically be entered twice.

Drawing will be held July, 17

Heartland Heroes .... Andrea Boeshaar

2010-05-11T09:13:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone! I would like to say "Thank You" to each of you for all your comments on this giveaway. I wished I had enough books to give to all of you, but, unfortunately I don't.
So, here we go, and the winner is....

CAROLE

Hey Ya'll! I have another great book to giveaway.

HEARTLAND HEROES.......by Andrea Boeshaar. A three-in-one collections.

Blurb:
Three independent women encounter unexpected Heroes.

Travel along on a journey to Iowa's heartland where three strong-willed women butt heads with heroic men who are determined to set them straight on ideas of life and love.

Resolved to never be financially strapped like her ministry-driven parents, nurse Ravyn Woods has her life goals set. So why does the reintroduction to Mark Monroe, a doctor soon to be an overseas missionary, suddenly make her long for something more?
Cadi Trent once lost her family in a flash flood, and now she is an EMT responding to a crisis in a nearby town. Only wanting to help, sahe's baffled by the open hostility of Deput Frank Parker. Why can't she trust her?

Ciara Rome is doing fine without a man or God in her life. After all, her entire existence is a testament to that independent theory. Now all she needs is a cooperation of her neighbor, the singleton Luke Weston with his three rambunctious sons, to help her prove the point for her master's thesis. Is there any way Gos can bring these attracted opposites together?

If you follow my blog you'll have another chance to win. Just mention in your comment you follow my blog and that's it. You'll automatically be enter twice.
Drawing will be held May, 22

Be Still.., and Let Your Nail Polish Dry! Free book

2010-04-27T11:51:00.000-07:00

Hey Ya'll! ***waving*** Thanks so much for eveyone's comments I appreciate each and every one of them. Now it's that time again, to draw a name from the hat.
And the lucky winner is...HollyMag

Hello Everyone! I have a WONDERFUL book to give away.

Be Still... and Let Your Nail Polish Dry. A Devo for women on the go.

Authors:
Andrea Boeshaar
Sandra D. Bricker
Loree Lough
Debby Mayne

This is a wonderful book!! I purchased one for myself and after reading it, I had to buy another one to give away on my blog. I LOVED IT!! Every woman will be blessed by this devotional.

Blurb: Need a little Peace and Quiet?

Today's women are busy. They're wives, moms, and businesswomen, juggling family, careers, responsibilities, and harried schedules. Thye look after everyone else's best interest but have little time for themselves.
Be still...and let your nail polish dry is a devotional designed for today's busy women--women who need a moment to relax, refresh, and think about their own spiritual well-being. With 104 comtemporary, poignant devtions from fellow plate-spinners Andrea Boeshaar, Sanda D. Bricker, Loree Lough, and Debby Mayne, women will renew their spirits and grow closer to GOD in the time it takes to paint a set of fingernails.

As always if you are a follower, just mention it in your comment and your name will be enter twice into the drawing.

Void where prohibited; open to US residents only.Odds of winning depends on the number of entrants.
Drawing will be held May 8

Love Finds You in Revenge, Ohio ---Free Book

2010-03-31T05:35:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone! It's that time again...To draw a name from the hat, and find out who the lucky winner is. Drum roll, Please...

MICHELLE V

Hey Eveyone! I have another wonderful book to giveaway.

Love Finds You in Revenge, Ohio.... Author Lisa Harris

The only thing worse than being a spinster is being a twice jilted spinster.

Blurb:

At twenty-five, Catherine Morgan is hardly an old maid. But she's given up on marriage and instead manages the family's general store in the small town of Revenge, Ohio. Bound by a promise to care for her three sisters until they marry, she'll do anything to keep them safe.

But Sheriff Corbin Hunter stands in her way. he has evidence that her sister's fiance is really an infamous bank robber-and the man who murdered his father.

Catherine finds herself torn between saving her sister's heart and losing hers to the man who jilted her seven years ago. Will Corbin's desire for revenge cause him to lose Catherine a second time?

********

Would you like for your name to entered twice? Here's how---

Be a follower of my blog. Just mention in your comment you follow my blog and that's it. You'll automatically be enter twice.

Void where prohibited; Open to US residents only. Odds of winning depends on number of entrants.

Drawing will be held April, 10

COWGIRL AT HEART.....Book giveaway

2010-03-09T09:15:00.000-08:00

Hello Everyone! I want to say "Thank You" to each and everyone one of you for visiting my blog and leaving a comment for a chance to win Cowgirl At Heart...Sadly only one person can win. I've picked a winner this morning. And, the winner is....drum roll, please....

JULIA

Hey Everyone, I have another GREAT book to give away!

COWGIRL AT HEART....by Christine Lynxwiler

Blurb:

Elyse McCord always plays it safe-a fact she blames on being the biological daughter of a modern day Bonnie and Clyde.

Eveb in the security of her adoptive family, the McCords, the timid dog whisperer keeps her guard up with strangers. But, when she discovers a dog being horribly mistreated, shy Elyse transforms into a mighty warrior and charges into a perilous situratio, not only risking her life, but also her heart.

Reporter Andrew Stone has been fearless since the day his wife was shot and killed three years ago. he has one mission-use his Texas Ranger upbringing to find her murderer and clear his own name of any involvement. When he sees a beautiful brunette in the hands of a pistol-wielding maniac, he's forced to abandon his covet surveillance and go to the rescue. The danger surrounding Andrew doesn't scare him at all, but the awakening of his dormat heart terrifies him.

When painful pasts collide, the explosion is deafening. Can Andrew and Elyse pick up the peices and go forward together? Or will they forever live with haunting memories, unable to forgive, unable to love?

Void where prohibited;Open to US residents only. Odd of winning depends on the number of entrants.

Drawing will be held March 20

4 Pampered Chef Recipe Booklets--Giveaway

2010-02-17T17:13:00.000-08:00

The winner of the Pampered Chefs recipe booklets is......DEBRA ULLRICK

Hey Ya'll! Boy, do I feel like Paula Deen right now. ***grin***

When I'm not writing or reading I'm cooking. I LOVE TO COOK! A year or so ago I was a consultant for The Pampered Chef. I was going through some of my packed up supplies and I came across some (still new) Season's Best recipe books.

Anyone who loves to cook, like I do. Will love these little books. There's around thirty recipes in each little booklet.

Baked Alaska Cake***Chicken Avocado & Grapefruit Salad***Molten Chocolate Mini cakes***Jerk Chicken Salad***Glazed Sesame Chicken stir-fry***Red Velvet Pudding Cake***Savory Cheese Bites***Truffle Brownie cups***.......That's just to mention a few.
As always, leave a comment for a chance to win. Mention you follow my blog and you'll be entered twice. WINNER WINS ALL FOUR RECIPE BOOKS!!!
Void where prohibited. Open to US residents only. Odds of winning depends on numbers entrants. Drawing will be held February 27

Valentine's Day Giveaway!!!

2010-02-03T11:44:00.000-08:00

Hello to all the Sweethearts who enter the drawing for my Valentine's Giveaway. I just the winning name from my hat.......drum roll, please!

And, the winner is... Cherie J

I have a great Valentine's giveaway. Giveaway includes: 1. Love Inspired-

"A Valentine's Wish" by Betsy St. Amant
(I wanted to add another picture of the book cover, so everyone could see how beautiful the cover is!)

Blurb: Unless youth pastor Andy Stewart finds a suitable wife fast, he'll lost his job. Yet the woman of his dreams is his best friend. And Lori Perkins is still smarting over a failed engagement, so he can't just declare his love. His plan: he'll be her secret admirer and woo her anonymously with flowers and chocolates.

And then, when romance is on her mind, Andy will confess his Valentine's wish--to spent his life with her. There's just one little problem, Lori seems to think her secret admirer is someone else!

2. A small box of Russell Stover's chocolates.

3. A beautiful LOVE keychain.

4. A bundle of four heart-shaped lollipops.

5. A pink Heart-shaped plate.

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!!

For a chance to win this giveaway.

Leave a comment +1

Be or become a follower +1

Post my Valentine's giveaway on your blog, and let me know you did +2

Void where prohibited; Open to US residents only. Odds of winning depends on the number of entrants.

Drawing will be held February, 14

Something a little Different---Giveaway

2010-01-21T08:42:00.000-08:00

And the winner for today's drawing is.......

DEBORAH

This giveaway is a little different than I normally have. Back a few years ago Heartsong Presents had an audio bookclub (which I totally miss)

I was cleaning out a filing cabinet and I came across these two audio books. They are wonderful!

I had thought about donating them to the library, then a lightbulb came on in my head...My blog! I wanted to pass along these wonderful audio books, to someone I knew would enjoy them!

THEY ARE USED! But, still in great condition. Best yet, they're Free!

Each book has four unabridged CDs.
Author: Cathy Maried Hake...Blurb for "One Chance in a Million" :
Returning from the Pacific Islands where her parents served as missionaries. Miriam arrives at the Chance brothers ranch, expecting to help her sister care for two children and six men. But Miriam is shocked to learn that her sister has died and her two nieces have been neglected.

When the Chance brothers order Miriam to take the next ship back to her home, she digs in her heels. Her place is with her nieces- even if that reduces her chances of marriage to about one in a million.
As the months pass, though, will Miriam come to believe that maybe one Chance is all she needs?
Author: Tracey V. Bateman...Blurb for "Second Chance":

Alisa Worthington dreams of havign a family-but just when she thinks she's found a home, it is taken from her. Alisa flees San Fancisco and the false accusations against her, ending up in the small town of Reliable, California. There, she's at the mercy of the six Chance brothers.
From the moment he first sees her, Titus Chance is drawn to Alisa's enormous brown eyes, set in a lovely heart-shaped face. But no matter how much friendship he offers, she always withdraws, apparently haunted by secrets from her past.
Will Alisa be convicted of a heinous crime she did not commit? Might her connection with Titus lead to a secong chance for love?
Void where prohibited; Open to US residents only. Odd of winning depends on the number of entrants. Drawing will be held, February 1, 2010

"A Slow Burn" by Mary E. Demuth....book giveaway

2010-01-10T13:18:00.000-08:00

I'd like to say "Thanks" to everyone of you that visited my blog and left a comment to win "A Slow Burn"
I wished I had enough books to go around, but sadly I don't. Only one person can be a winner, and that one person is.... ANDREA

Congrats, Andrea!

"A Slow Burn," by Mary E. Demuth.
Blurb:
Burying her grief, Emory Chance is determined to find her daughter Daisy's murderer-a man she saw in a flicker of a vision. But when the investigation hits a dead end, her despair escalates. As questions surrounding Daisy's death continue to mount, Emory's safety is shattered by the pursuit of a stranger, and she can't shake the sickening fear that her own choices contributed to Daisy's disappearance.
Will she ever experience the peace her heart longs for?

The second book in the Defiance Texas Trilogy, this suspenseful novel is about courageous love, the burden of regret, and bonds that never break. It is about the beauty and the pain of telling the truth. Most of all, it is about the power of forgiveness and what remains when shame no longer holds us captive.
(If you follow my blog you'll have another chance to win. Just mention in your comment you follow my blog and that's it. You'll automatically be enter twice.)

Void where prohibited; Open to US residents only. Odds of winning depends on the number of entrants. Drawing will be held Jan. 16

A Facelift for my Blog

2010-01-04T09:46:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone!

I just given my blog a New look for the New Year! So, let me know what you think. Do you like it or do you not?

Happy New Year!!

2009-12-29T08:21:00.000-08:00

Wishing everyone a HAPPY and Blessed 2010 NEW YEAR!!!!

The Circle of Friends Award

2009-12-19T11:21:00.001-08:00

This Blog has received an Award!

My new friend, and neighbor Deborah Malone over @ http://deborahsbutterflyjourney.blogspot.com/, has given me The Circle of Friends Award! The rules are I'm supposed to share five things that I love to do and then pass the Award along to five other blogs.

Here we go! Five things I love to do...

1. Read! (of course)
2. Write
3. Quilt/Sew
4. Travel
5. Karaoke

The five people/blogs I'm going to pass this Award on to is...

1. Debby Mayne -- http://debbymayne.blogspot.com/
2. Debra Ullrick -- http://christianromancewriter.blogspot.com/
3. Cathy Bryant -- http://wordvessel.blogspot.com/
4. All the ladies over at -- http://inkwellinspirations.blogspot.com/
5. Andrea Schultz -- http://andrealschultz.blogspot.com/

Thanks again, Deborah for The Circle of Friends Award!

Snowbound Colorado Christmas-- Giveaway

2009-12-19T07:02:00.000-08:00

I'd like to Thank everyone for visiting my blog and entering my Christmas Book Giveaway...The winner of my last Christmas book is...

SCOTTSGAL

Well here we are...The last book in my Christmas Book giveaway.

"Snowbound Colorado Christmas" anthology

Authors:
Susan Page Davis
Lena Nelson Dooley
Darlene Franklin
Tamela Hancock Murray

Thalia Blooms's Christmas party on December 3, 1913, is the talk of Denver, but no one dreams the gently falling snow will continue six days and accumulate to nearly four feet.

Blurb:
Thalia's only dread is having to see the man who once jilted her. Could an allergy to rhubarb ruin her whole party or bring together two people who are meant for each other?

Rose Fletcher attends her friend's party and becomes reacquainted with a man who used to work on her father's ranch. Are the feelings just lingering infatuations, or could there be a future for two people from such different backgrounds?

Patricia Logan also has trouble getting home, becoming snowbound with a former admirer, a cranky midwife, and questions from the past. Can Patricia rekindle an old camaraderie and see it transform into lasting love?

An accident while leaving the party has heiress Natalie Daire taking refuge at the Brown Palace Hotel. What could a sudden friendship with an ordinary mechanic teach her about life?

If they live through the storm, will love be there to greet each young woman on Christmas morn?

(If you follow my blog you'll have another chance to win. Just mention in your comment you follow my blog, and that's it. You'll automatically be enter twice.)

Now the legal stuff...Void where prohibited; Open to US residents only. Odds of winning depends on number of entrants. Drawing will be held Dec. 26

Announcing a NEW blog!

2009-12-18T20:31:00.000-08:00

There's a wonderful new blog for those of you who love to read, Heartsong Presents books.
It's called Heartsong Connection you can find it at:

http://www.heartsong-authors.blogspot.com/

Check it out!!

Christmas Book Giveaway...A Connecticut Christmas

2009-12-13T07:50:00.000-08:00

Thanks to everyone who visited my blog and left a comment to win A Connecticut Christmas...I wished I had enough books to give to every one.
The winner of this week's Christmas book is...
DEBORAH M.

Christmas Book Giveaway..."A Connecticut Christmas Anthology."

Authors:
Diane Ashley
Janet Lee Barton
Rhonda Gibson
Gail Sattler

Snowbound Village, Connecticut, is full of holiday charm, especially at the mall's Christmas Collectibles Shop where romance is in the air.

Blurb:

Nick Jackson seeks to add to Delia Wilkin's collection of Santas and turn her heart toward Jesus. But will working so closely with Delia become awkward since he has ended their romantic relationship?

Jonathan Griffin shops for something to enhance Cindy Morrow's new cookie shop and attract her attention. Will Cindy slow down enough to recognize the plans the Lord has for her when she's presented with a cookie jar full of love?

Sheila fisher's storytelling is inspired by Morgan Frost's collectible critters. When she meets the man to ask for permission to write about his creations, will the encounter lead to dreams of love or dreams stolen?

Rochelle McWilliams collects snowflakes, adorning everything with them, much to Kade Guilford's chagrin. Will kade allow Rochelle to melt the ice around his stubborn heart?

( If you follow my blog, you will have another chance to win. Just mention in your comment you follow my blog and that's it. You'll automatically be enter twice.)

Void where prohibited; Open to US residents only. Odds of winning depends on the number of entrants.
Drawing will be Dec. 19

2009-12-05T07:44:00.000-08:00

I'd like to say Thanks to everyone who visited my blog this week for a chance to win The Sound of Sleigh Bells. As you know we can have only one winner and the winner is:
Deedles

Christmas Book Giveaway!
The Sound of Sleigh Bells...by Cindy Woodsmall
Blurb:

Beth Hertzler is unable to let go of the past.

Still in mourning, she cuts herself off from any hope of happiness. A gifted carver holds the answer to both her past and future in his hands- but can Beth move beyond yesterday and embrace a second chance at love?

(If you follow my blog you'll have another chance to win. Just mention in your comment you follow my blog and that's it! You'll automatically be enter twice.)
Void where prohibited; Open to US residents only. Odds of winning depends on number of entrants.

Drawing will be Dec. 12

2009-11-28T10:52:00.000-08:00

Thanks to all who enter to win A Bride by Christmas. And the winner is...

Carmen 7351

Christmas Anthology..."A BRIDE BY CHRISTMAS"

Authors:
Linda Goodnight
Kelly Eileen Hake
Vickie McDonough
Therese Stenzel

Blurb:
Anastasia Federov leaves home and searches for a husband to thwart her guardian's devious plans for her inheritance. Jace Brackett hires Anastasia to nanny his troublesome little girl. Could the employer be the answer to the employee's prayers?

Jerome Sanders orders up a Dutch bride to earn a grant that will save the family farm. Idelia van der Zee is delighted when a letter arrives asking for her hand. But will she balk when Jerome's true motive is reveals?

Jackson Lancaster must find a wife or lose custody of his niece. Larkin Doyle is grateful her employer took in aa orphan she believes was abandoned. When Larkin meets Jackson could romance blossom?

Katherine Wiltshire needs a husband to help her secure her claim to her deceased father's land. Haunted by a criminal past, Charlie Landing must prove himself as the new sheriff and acquire a wife. When the twofind themselves engaged, can they trust God with their future?

Can four unlikely couples find happiness in marriage on the Great Plains?

(If you follow my blog, you'll have another chance to win. Just mention in your comment you follow my blog and that's it. You'll automatically be enter twice.)
Void where prohibited; Open to US residents only. Odds of winning depends on the number of entrants.
Drawing will be Dec. 5

(Please include your email address in with your comment. Thank you.)

Jingle Bell Babies -- Book Giveaway

2009-11-22T06:15:00.000-08:00

Thanks to all who entered to win Jingle Bell Babies. Congrats to the winner:

COLLETTAKAY

JINGLE BELL BABIES by Kathryn Springer

Blurb:

His triplet daughters are what kept rancher Jesse Logan going after his wife's death in the High Plains tornadoes. But, three infants are too much work for one man.

Nurse Lori Martin loved them from the moment she saw them in
the neonatal nursery. So, when she hears Jesse's looking for a nanny, she can't help but offer her services. And Lori soon discovers that all she wants for Christmas is a trio of giggling babies- and their handsome father.

(If you follow my blog, your have another chance to win. Just mention in your comment you follow my blog and that's it. You'll automatically be enter twice.)

Void where prohibited; open to US resdents only. Odds of winning depends on the number of entrants.
Drawing will be held November, 28

Forever Christmas -- Book Giveaway

2009-11-16T12:36:00.000-08:00

I'd like to thank everyone who left a comment to win, Forever Christmas. I just drew the winning name and the winner is :

Bigguysmama

"Forever Christmas" by Christine Lynxwiler.

Blurb:
Kristianna Harrington fights for love...again. But this time, it's for love of a town, or is it?

Since I was a little girl, Jingle Bells, Arkansas, had been my refuge--especially Gram Harrington's gift shop, Forever Christmas. Jingle Bells also happens to be home to my best friends. Ami and Garrett, so when I inherited Gram's shop, the decision to move here seemed obvious.

So far, though, my business savvy is proving about as successful as my love life. (I've had two broken engagements. Enough said.)

Everyone knows Jingle Bells needs as economic miracle to survive. But let's just say my idea of a miracle from that of corporate bigwig lawyer, Shawn Webber. He plows into town campaigning to change the name to Summer Valley--to entice a big corporation to relocate here. A girl would think she could count on her best friends to support her fight to keep Jingle Bells on the map. Or not.

Okay, so I understand how Ami is totally focused on her wedding plans. But Garrett can't bother himself with local politics when there's bowling to be done. Men!

When will I ever learn to let God guide me in matters of home...and heart!

Void where prohibited; open to US residents only. Odds of winning depends on the number of entrants. Drawing will be held Nov.21

The Great Christmas Bowl -- Giveaway

2009-11-04T12:47:00.000-08:00

Thanks to everyone who entered to win The Great Christmas Bowl, I just drew from the hat and THE WINNER IS : CARRIE

Susan May Warren's "The Great Christmas Bowl"

Blurb:

Marianne Wallace loves the holidays. From dressing the tree to her traditional Christmas dinner, it's all about creating memories for her family.
But, when her children begin to leave home-and their traditions-behind, she has one last chance to create a holiday they'll never forget.

Unfortunately, she's soon in over her head, and one impulsive decision leads to a string of events that will change the way her family-even her small Minnesota town-sees the Christmas season.

***Heartwarming and hilarious, The Great Christmas Bowl is a story about family, traditions, and rediscovering the real magic of Christmas***

Drawing will be held November, 14

Void where prohibited; open to US residents only. Odds of winning depends on the number of entrants.

LongRidgeWritersGroup--Course

2009-10-01T07:38:00.000-07:00

March of 2008, I received a leaflet in the mail about a writer's course called, LongRidgeWritersGroup...Breaking into Print. So,I decided to enroll.

Now, here it is a little over a year later, and I'm proud to announce I am a Graduate of Long Ridge. My diploma is hanging over my computer desk in my office. Yea Me!!!

I was blessed to be able to go to the 2009 ACFW Conference in Denver, Colorado last month. Because of the knowledge I received through the LongRidge course, I pitch my WIP "Cowgirls Don't Cry," to editor,JoAnne Simmons with Heartsong Presents. She ask me to send her my proposal. I believe I went into writers shock! I wanted to jump up and down, cheering.
But, I thought that might be a little over the top, and so unprofessional (what do you think) ***smiling***

I own it all to the wonderful instructor LongRidge assigned to me, DEBBY MAYNE.
She has encouraged and inspired me every step of the way. And, the fabulous thing about it all...I had the change to meet Debby face to face at the conference.

Here's a photo of me & Debby at the ACFW Conference.

Remember, We are never to old to Dream, and never to tired to chase after them !!!

Winner!

2009-07-20T06:55:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to carlyberd@yahoo.com. The winner of Missy Tippens "His Forever Love"

2009-07-15T15:21:00.000-07:00

Missy Tippens' "His Forever Love" Free Book

Blurb:

In magnolia, Georgia, local legend says that a couple who holds hands around the "forever" tree will have an unending love. Even so, Bill Wellington held Lindsay Jone's hands around that tree years ago.....and then left her behind.

He chose the big city, and now wants to bring his grandmother there. But to his amazement, he finds that Granny has a boyfriend--and a vibrant life. A life that includes Lindsay, Granny's caretaken.

Bill never thought he'd want to come home, yet Magnolia clearly has its charms. As does Lindsay, who makes him long for a second chance at forever love.

Please leave your email address with your comment, that's the only way I can contact the winner. Drawing will be held July 20.

ACFW Conference

2009-07-06T16:37:00.000-07:00

This is my very first ACFW Conference. I've registered. My flight's booked, and my hotel room is secured.
All my calendars in my home has September 17-20 highlighted. I've read all the buzz about the conference I can find. Deborah Vogts has a very helpful post on her blog about the conference, and I've read it several times.
I'm anxious to meet some of my favorite authors face to face. (Debby Mayne is one of them)She's also given me some very good advice on the conference, too.
This is my first time to be going to such a big event, so I'm pretty nervous and excited all at the same time.
So, if any of you can pass along any helpful hints, I would greatly appreciate it.

2009-06-02T09:27:00.000-07:00

"Love Finds You in Treasure Island, Florida" What a wonderful book!!!! I loved it. Debby Mayne is a very gifted and talented writer.....She truly has a heart for romance!

I fell in love with each character in the book from the moment I started reading. Debby brought all the characters to life, in such a real manner , it was amazing.

The heroine, Amanda Burns-a bicycle shop owner in Treasure Island, Florida, once jilted at the altar, guarded her heart closely. Would she ever trust another man again?

The hero,Jerry Simpson is a super nice guy, who takes his parents (Harold his father, who was in the early stages of Alzheimer's and Rosemary his mother who recently had been diagnosis with Parkinson's) on vacation every year to Treasure Island, Florida.

The moment Jerry walks into Amanda's bicycle shop, something happens to both their hearts. But with Amanda trying to protect her heart, and Jerry feeling the need to take care of his parents, love doesn't come easily for either one of them.

The first time Jerry kissed Amanda, I swooned !!!! I cheered on the two of them through the entire book. I was completely swept away with this romance.

And the setting was equally amazing. The details of the island were so vivid; it made me want to pack up and move there.

Once I picked up this book to read, I couldn't put it down. I was hooked from the first page all way through to the last.

Also, Love finds you in Treasure Island, Florida is a Romantic Times July Top Pick with 4 1/2 star review!!!

My Granddaughter Made my Day !!!!

2009-05-27T22:51:00.000-07:00

My granddaughter, Kasi (who is nine years-old) enter a Creative Writing Contest at her school, a couple of months ago. None of us even knew she had enter the contest.

The contest was for all students in Etowah County in the 1-5 grade. Which was about 200 students.

Today at her school awards, they announced that Kasi had won the Creative Writing Contest. YEEEEPPPP!!!!!!

Needless to say, I was thrilled! My daughter, Tiffany ( who is Kasi's mother) said," Well, Mom, it looks like one of your grandchildren is going to follow in your footsteps."

Kasi's replied, "I want to be a writer just like my Nonna."

Flavorwave Turbo

2009-05-13T08:27:00.000-07:00

Not only do I love to write, but I also LOVE to cook. I have so many cooking gadgets in my kitchen, my husband teases me about them all the time. He says, He's going to build me a storage building just for my cooking utensils.
I've ordered alot of my items off of TV. When I see something advertised, I think is a good buy, Guess what? I buy it.
But, my cabinet is filled to the brim with things I've purchased that doesn't work like it was advertised. So, I promised myself, NO MORE BUYING.
I spend so much of my time writing, that I need something that will shorten my time in the kitchen, and standing over the stove.
A couple of weeks ago I seen an advertistment for a "Flavorwave Turbo." It's claims were you could take a frozen piece of steak, chicken, fish, etc....straight out of the freezer, and cook it in 20 minutes. It looked very interesting, so I ordered it.
When it arrived I unpacked it, placed it on my counter, and wondered if it would be another gadget that would end up in the "Gadget graveyard" under my cabinet.
But, the first time I used it, I was completely surprised.....It was amazing!!! I loved it! I had place a frozen steak and a potato, into it, and it was ready to eat in just a few minutes......and it tasted great!
It remains on my counter, and I use it everyday. Even my husband is impressed.

2009-04-14T10:50:00.000-07:00

Have you ever dreamed of being a Writer? I have.

Since the age of thirteen, I have always dreamed of being a published writer.

While other children were outdoors, playing dodgeball, tag, or hide-and-seek, I was locked away in my bedroom with pen and paper in hand.

I would be creating a world of; happily-ever-afters, love you forever, heart racing, pulse stopping, fairy-tale romances.

That was the age before computers in every home and word processors. Everything was handwritten. So, I taught myself to write with both hands. When one hand became tired, I would just switch over to the other hand.

But, I thought becoming a writer was just a childhood dream. It was something I enjoyed doing (as a hobby) for myself. Besides, I had no earthly idea where to start a career in writing.

Then one day, I received a LongRidgeWritersGroup (Breaking into print) booklet in the mail.

I enrolled in the course and it was the beginning of a journey, I have waited to take for thirty-three years.

I now have several manuscripts submitted to magazine markets, and right now I'm in the early stages of my first novella, for Heartsong Presents.

I am a member of the RWA (Romance Writers of America) and ACFW (America Christian Fiction Writers)

Now, I am happier than I have ever been. I am doing what I have always dreamed of doing, and I haven't slowed down yet !!

It doesn't matter what age you are, or the background you come from, or the opinion of others....... NEVER GIVE UP ON YOUR DREAMS, because they ARE within your reach, if you keep chasing after them.