Genevive Chamblee's Blog, page 45

Holiday Gift Giving Tips & Cookie Recipes

Happy Belated Thanksgiving to all my followers, readers, family, and friends who celebrate the holiday. I must start this post with an apology. For some reason, my Thanksgiving post did not upload last Wednesday as scheduled. I did not realize this until late in the evening, and when I went in search for it, it had vanished. Poof! Since the time change, I have had several issues with posts not posting as scheduled. I thought I had it resolved. Apparently not. Please bear with me as I find the solution.

Second, I would like to thank everyone again who helped me celebrate the launch of Defending the Net, my sports romance novella that follows two steamy, hot goalies. Your support means everything.

Third, I don’t often do a storytime post, but today’s article is inspired by one. Several years ago, I noticed I had a pattern of becoming ill (usually with something respiratory) on Christmas day or shortly thereafter. It took me a while to realize the underlying source was stress. See, I was one of those people who got caught up in the commercialism of the holidays. It’s not that I desire expensive gifts (or any gifts at all), but I had surrounded myself by people who did. I would spend hours and weeks searching for the perfect gift only to have the receiver not appreciate it. It was heartbreaking. What was even more, I was on an extremely tight budget, unemployed (preteen/teen), with approximately thirty people on my Christmas list. Yes, they all expected individual presents, meaning that I couldn’t give a couple or siblings a combined gift. Just about my entire allowance for a year went to pay for these gifts. And it wasn’t by any means a large allowance (less than $150 annually). Divide that by nearly 30 people, and it isn’t much to spend per person. So, I would come up with creative gifts.

Once, I did a “family cookbook”, where I collected recipes from older members of the family. I didn’t have a printer, but I neatly printed each recipe on index cards and stored them in boxes that I personalized for each receiver. It took me hours to create each of these gifts, only to see them thrown in the trash a few short hours later.

Then, one year, our house was burglarized before Christmas. The crooks (three teenage boys—well, the youngest one was nine years old at the time), tore opened the gifts and stole what they wanted. They didn’t want any of the gifts I had purchased, either.

Once I started working, I stopped making gifts. I would brave the store crowds and cruise up and down isles to find the perfect gift. I invested true effort into gift finding. Again, I failed. The persons on my list had champagne taste, and even working, I couldn’t afford them. I began dreading the holidays. I think it was then that I began to get a clue that gift giving for me was toxic.

Three other things that I noticed were occurring. First, the number of people on my list had increased. Since the original people on my list had had had children, I was expected to buy for them, too.

Second, for the people who were in my extended family or friends who had moved, I would snail mail Christmas cards. However, if I got a card in return (and most times I didn’t), it was always after I mailed them one. So, one year, I tested the theory and deliberately mailed all my cards close to Christmas. Sure enough, the cards I received in return were postmarked after Christmas, indicating these family and friends had not thought about me during the season as I had thought of them.

Third, I would receive combined family gifts. While I would purchase gifts for a mom, dad, and their three children, I would receive one gift from their family—their two established incomes to my one starter one. So, I would give thirty presents and receive about three or four. But it wasn’t the combined gift that bothered me; although, the double standard most certainly did. No, it was that the gifts I received literally had no thought put into them. There was no sentimental value. Everyone knows I like functional gifts, something I can use (e.g., shampoo, contact solution, lotion, soap, candles, colored ink pens, etc.) or anything with my college logo. I would receive colored glass wine bottles, throw pillows that match nothing in my house but probably was on sale at a flee market (although, I do appreciate a bargain), or bulky straw baskets. My holidays were bummers. That’s when I knew I had to remove myself and climb out of that vortex of commercialism.

So, here is what I learned and some holiday tips for anyone who finds himself/herself in a similar position. One, shop for yourself. No, I don’t mean buy yourself gifts (although you most certainly could). I mean have a fun shopping experience. Enjoy the moment. Do not stress over what to purchase for someone. Think about the feeling you have in giving. Instead of asking if the person would like receiving it, ask yourself if you feel good about giving it. Remember that positive energy transfers. If you don’t let grinches get you down, their attitudes will improve when you’re around. Set the example with a smile, benevolence, and joyfulness.

Two, don’t go into debt for the holiday. If you can’t afford it, don’t get it. Usually, expensive products have less expensive dupes. If a dupe won’t work or is unavailable, find another gift. Homemade gifts are perfectly acceptable and come from a place of love. It will show the receiver that you have invested both the time and effort to create something especially for them. There are plenty of sites on the internet that give step-by-step directions of how to create pretty, imitative, and affordable gifts. As a creator, you will dictate complete quality control by selecting which materials to you. Plus, as a bonus, the receiver will not have to work about standing in line to return.

Three, it’s all in the packaging. For persons with champagne taste but a superficial value, play up the wrapping to make the gift look expensive. This may be achieved by inexpensive bows, ribbons, or curly ques. I once wrapped all the presents purchased in silver wrapping paper. I then took wax paper and wrapped over the silver paper. When I stacked them under the tree, it looked as if all the gifts were frozen in blocks of ice. I took a picture of the stacked presents, printed them out at a digital photo printer in 3×5 on regular stock paper, and used the photo to create the nametag. Both the silver and wax paper I purchased from the dollar store. The photos cost about $2.00 in total to print 5 sheets. Another time attached the nametag to a candy cane and taped the candy cane on each gift. I often would look at how some boutiques wrapped their gifts and would do the same. Not only does sprucing up the packaging make everything prettier, the gift receiver perceives a more expensive gift.

Four, keep everything positive. I like listening to Christmas music and watching Christmas movies (some). Even if I’m not going to the forest to pick out a tree or bake gingerbread cookies, I can enjoy watching someone else do it. I’m not an outdoorsy type person anyway, and there’s not much way I could get a live tree. But I can buy candles that smell like pine and infuse my house with the scent. Focus on the elements that you like about the holidays. If you’re a religious person, dedicate more time to church activities, adoration, or praying. Visit with friends that you don’t get to see often.

Five, each day do one small kindness for another person. It could be paying for the person’s next in line at the coffee shop a coffee, helping out at a homeless shelter, donating a bag of dog or cat food to an animal shelter, raking the leaves in a neighbor’s yard, visit an elder person in a convalescent home, send an inspirational email to a coworker, say something nice to a person you are passing on the street, recycle to help the environment, etc. Any small thing works. The season is about giving. Even if you have people in your life who do not appreciate your fiving, someone will—even if you never see their face.

Six, turn off the commercials. Don’t torture yourself by listening to and watching commercials attempting to sell you items you don’t need. Don’t feel that you’re missing out if you skip the sales.

Seven, make tons of lists. Being organized helps relieve the stress of shopping and the holidays in general. Having a list helps ensure that you don’t forget anything and creates order.

Eight, don’t wait until the last minute to get things done—unless, of course, you’re an adrenaline junkie. I’m a procrastinator and panster by nature, but during this time of year, I have to get it together. I had one relative whose nagging put a damper on Christmas each year. She was so controlling of opening Christmas gifts, it was like being issued army gear. She would have a fit if any wrapping paper landed on the floor and insisted that the room be vacuumed before opening gifts, along with many other demands. Therefore, I began a plan to beat her to the punch by doing all the things she would insist upon before she had the opportunity to say anything. It stole her thunder. Now, she sits, sulking, because she has nothing to complain about and nothing to control.

Nine, decrease buying. No matter how much someone tries to guilt trip or pressure you, do not feel obligated to buy gifts for everyone. Gift giving comes from the heart and should mean something, so give to those that are most important to you. Your presence if gift enough to those who love and care about you. Be sure to express to them how much each of them means to you. Suggest to family that each of you pull names or play a game like Dirty Santa. Perhaps chip in with another person to give combined gifts. If you do decide to give a gift to your uncle’s cousin’s nephew’s girlfriend’s mechanic’s mom because she will be present and you don’t want her to feel left out, give her a small happy instead of trying to do something elaborate.

I know a woman who has over a dozen grandchildren and almost as many great grands. She is on a fixed income and can’t really afford purchasing a ton of gifts. Her grandchildren (all adults) live in different cities and states. They do not visit or call often. Some she has spoken to or seen in year nearly 10 years, not because there is bad blood, but because they do not take the time. Others pop up unannounced on Christmas every few years. The grandmother feels guilty and awkward if her grandchildren and their families arrive and she does not have a present for them. Therefore, she buys gifts them that largely go unclaimed. Instead of storing the gifts for the next year, she begs their parent (yes, “begs” her child, the parent of her grandchildren) to get the gifts and give the to the grandchildren. It is usually several months after Christmas that her child retrieves the gifts meant for her grand and great grandchildren. Whether or not the gifts are received by the intended receiver is unknown. They never call or send a thank you card or email to indicate they have been.

Ten, if you feel that you MUST give gifts and that these gifts must be purchased, consider purchasing the gifts after the holidays and storing them for the next year. Another money saving idea is to purchase small stocking stuffers throughout the year. For example, Bath & Body Works have summer sales that mark items 75% off or buy 3 get 3 free. This is a great time to rack up on presents for little to nothing—moderately priced gifts without busting the piggy.

And to end on a happy note, one that leaves me with warm memories, I loved baking Christmas cookies with my daughter. It’s prepares the one tradition that we want to keep. The others…eh…are like a plague that we are trying to rid ourselves (e.g., every year somehow ornaments getting broken or how we always manage to kick the breaker with our Christmas lights.) So, I’m sharing some of my favorite (and easiest) cookie recipes.

Frosty cookies

1 cup butter (softened)

¼ cup sugar (granulated)

½ cup sugar (powered)

¼ tsp nutmeg

¼ tsp cinnamon

¼ tsp ginger

2 cups flour (all-purpose)

2 cups pecans (chopped)

1 tsp vanilla

 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Spray a cookie sheet with non-stick baker’s spray and set aside.
In a medium bowl, blend the sugar and butter until creamy.
Add nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger, vanilla, and flour. Mix until well blended and the mixture is of a dough consistency.
Slowly add in pecan while continuing to mix.
From the dough into balls, approximately one inch in diameter.
Place balls onto cookie sheet approximately one-inch apart and bake for 15 minutes or until light gold.
Remove the cookie balls from oven and allow to cool to a lukewarm temperature (approximately 5 minutes)
Roll the balls in the powdered sugar

 

Almond Peppermint Cookies

1 cup butter (softened)

1 tsp vanilla

½ tsp salt

½ tsp baking soda

1 tsp baking powder

1 cup sugar (granulated)

1 cup sugar (brown)

2 cups flour (all-purpose)

1 cup peppermint candy (crushed)

1 cup almonds (finely chopped)

2 eggs

1 cup coconut flakes

1 ½ cup oats

 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Spray a cookie sheet with non-stick baker’s spray and set aside.
In a medium size bowl, stir butter until creamy and set aside.
Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, and eggs to the butter and mix well.
In a separate bowl, sift the baking soda, baking powder, salt, and flour until well blended.
Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix until smooth.
Add peppermint, almonds, and oats and mix well.
Form into one-inch balls and place on cookie sheet approximately one inch apart.
Bake for 15 minutes or until golden.

 

Heavenly Christmas

4 tbs honey

¼ tsp caramel

¼ tsp salt

½ tsp vanilla

¾ tsp baking soda

½ cup sugar (brown)

½ cup sugar (granulated)

¼ cup butter

¼ cup cream cheese

1 ½ cup flour (all-purpose)

1 ½ cup peanut butter

1 egg

 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Grease a cookie sheet with non-stick baking spray and set aside.
In a medium sized bowl, the blend butter, peanut butter, cream cheese, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, honey, and caramel until smooth and well blended.
While blending, stir in the salt, baking soda, and flour.
Mix well.
Form the dough into one-inch balls and then flatten.
Place on cookie sheet and back for 15 minutes or until golden.

 

Red Velvet Cookies

½ cup vegetable oil

2 large eggs

1 box Red Velvet Cake mix

Powdered sugar

 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Grease a cookie sheet with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.
In a medium bowl mix the cake mix, oil, and egg into a dough.
Form dough into one-inch balls.
Roll the balls in the powdered sugar.
Place the cookie balls onto the cookie sheet.
Bake for 10 minutes.
Allow to cool and roll in powdered sugar a second time.

Enjoy sports romance? Check out my new adult romance, Defending the Net, released on November 10. It is the second in my hockey series and guaranteed to melt the ice. It will be sold at Kindle, Apple Store, Nook, Kobo, !ndigo, Angus & Robertson, and Mondadori Store. It is the second in my hockey series and guaranteed to melt the ice. Order a copy now at www.books2read.com/defending. Crossing the line could cost the game.

Missed the first in my hockey romance series? Don’t worry. Out of the Penalty Box, an adult romance where it’s one minute in the box or a lifetime out is available at http://amzn.to/2Bhnngw. It also can be ordered on iTunes, Nook, or Kobo. For more links where to purchase or to read the blurb, please visit http://bit.ly/2i9SqpH.

Life’s Roux: Wrong Doors, my steamy romantic comedy, is available at Red Sage Publishing. To order, follow the link to http://bit.ly/2CtE7Ez or to Amazon at http://amzn.to/2lCQXpt.

Copies of all my books and stories are available in paper, eBook, and audio on Amazon, iTunes, Kobo, and Barnes & Noble. The links are listed in my Writing Projects page (http://bit.ly/2iDYRxU) along with descriptions of each of my novels or stories.

NEWSLETTER! Want to get the latest information and updates about my writing projects, giveaways, contests, and reveals first? Click https://genevivechambleeconnect.wordpress.com/newsletter/  and signup today.

DISCLAIMER: Creole Bayou is not sponsored or being paid to endorse any business, website, person, podcast, broadcast, videos, philanthropy, or products. Any shoutouts given is due to personally liking a product or cause. There is no intention to slight any competitors or introduce bias. If you have a product or service that is related to anything mentioned in this post and would like a shoutout in the future, please do not hesitate to contact via email to inform me of such product or service.

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Louisiana Trivia

It has been some time since I did a bit of trivia and Louisiana fun facts. I suspect that I am overdue. Several of my followers have requested it; so, here it is. If you missed my earlier trivia post, I will add a link at the end of this post.

Natchitoches was the first permanent Louisiana settlement. It occurred in 1714 with the founding of Fort Jean Baptiste colony by the French-Canadian soldier and explorer, Louis Antoine Juchereau de St. Denis. (What a mouthful. Try saying that three times fast. And if you’re wondering how to say Natchitoches, it is pronounced “Nack-a-tish”.)
At one time, Arkansas, Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Oklahoma, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wyoming, along with parts of Canada, New Mexico, and Texas were all a part of the Louisiana Territory. In total, thirteen states were created from it. One could say, Louisiana birthed and is the mother to them all.
The U.S. paid France $15 million bucks in 1803 to purchase the Louisiana territory. Considering that in today’s inflation that translates into over $335 million, the U.S. got a bargain on the deal. Extreme couponing doesn’t even come close. Ever wonder if looking back France doesn’t just say, “Damn!”
Louisiana, although often referred to as she or as female, is named after King Louis XIV of France, who reigned 1643-1715. The name was given by the French explorer, René-Robert Cavelier, Sieur de LaSalle. (Yeah, I know. Why couldn’t people have simple names?) Technically, LaSalle named the territory “La Louisiane”, which translates to mean “the land of Louis”. LaSalle was born on November 22, 1643, and killed by his own men in a mutiny on March 19, 1687.
And speaking of names…Audrey, Betsy, Camille, Katrina, and Rita are all unpopular, female names in Louisiana, as they are the names of the worst hurricanes to hit Louisiana (and some of the worst to strike the U.S.). Birth census indicates the use of these names have declined and understandably so. Each has ravaged the land, cost millions (billions in some instances), displaced families, disrupted the culture, and tragically claimed hundreds of lives. Also, in October 1893, a hurricane struck the Louisiana island of Cheniere Caminada. In its wake, it claimed the lives of approximately 2,000 people and decimated the island, leaving only one building standing.
Louisiana is home to the Cajun Navy. Based in Hammond, the Cajun Navy is a volunteer grassroots organization that was created post-Hurricane Katrina to quickly respond to disasters by assisting in rescue efforts in conjunctions with other organizations (e.g., National Guard, Red Cross, FEMA, etc.) They help sandbag, clear ditches and culverts, donate food and cleaning supplies, and use their boats, whether it be an airboat, fishing boat, hunting boat, kayak, or pirogue, to navigate to people trapped in flood waters. They are swift, efficient, dedicated, and dang gone good. Learn more about this organization by visiting their Facebook page and consider making a donation to support their cause. (DISCLAIMER: The Cajun Navy is in no way a sponsor of this blog. I am not being paid or compensated to endorse them. I’m giving them a shout out because I think their effort and cause deserves recognition.)
Returning to the name theme, Louis Armstrong, Evelyn Ashford, P.G.T. Beauregard, Odell Beckham Jr., Demetress Bell, James Booker, Arna Bontemps, Terry Bradshaw, Truman Capote, Kitty Carlisle, James Carville, Johnnie Cochran, Harry Connick Jr., Ellen DeGeneres, Clyde Dexter, Dr. John, Fats Domino, Bryant Gumble, Hunter Hayes, Shelley Henning, Al Hirt, Mahalia Jackson, Sabrina LaBeauf, John Larroquette, Jared Leto, Jerry Lee Lewis, Lil Romeo, Lil Wayne, Little Walter, Anthony Mackie, Karl Malone, Eli Manning, Peyton Manning, Wynton Marsalis, Tim McGraw, Jelly Roll Morton, Huey P. Newton, Ryan O’Neal, Shaquille O’Neal (okay, so not really but close enough roots at LSU to be claimed), Dak Prescott, Tyler Perry, Homer Plessy, Anne Rice, Sadie Robertson, Bill Russell, Richard Simmons, Ian Somerhalder, Britney Spears, Jimmy Swaggart, Vivien Thomas, Allen Toussaint, Sean Tuohy, Madam C.J. Walker, Carl Weathers, Shane West, Hank Williams Jr., and Reese Witherspoon are a few notable Louisianans. You may have heard of a few. This list, of course, in no way contains every one of fame or distinction reigning from the state.
As of 2018, the New Orleans Saints have attended one Super Bowl, which was in 2010. They have been in the playoffs eleven times (1987, 1990, 1991, 1992, 2000, 2006, 2009,2010, 2013, and 2017). In Super Bowl XLIV (44 for those who dislike Roman Numeral), the Who Dat Nation competed against the Indianapolis Colts and won with a score of 31-17. The Saints announced their NFL franchise on November 1, 1966, which also is All Saints Day. The team is named after the jazz song When the Saints Go Marching In. One would think the name of their stadium also would fit into the Catholicism theme, but it doesn’t. It’s named the Mercedes-Benz Superdome after the car manufacturer; although, the pontiff’s popemobile does are of a certain stylish vehicular persuasion.
In 1983, the Special Olympics International Summer Games was hosted in Baton Rouge at Louisiana State University (LSU).
The Saint Charles streetcar line is one of the only two mobile national monuments in the U.S.
The Catahoula Leopard Dog (also known as the Catahoula Hound) is the Louisiana official state dog. One reason for selection of this breed as the state dog is because Catahoulas are the only dog breed to have its origins in Louisiana. And while speaking of origins, the origins of the word catahoulais Choctaw and means “sacred lake”. And like most Louisianans, they are known to be loyal, watchful, and independent (and maybe even a little bit stubborn).
The bald cypress if the official Louisiana state tree. It was named “bald” because the tree loses its leaves early in the season, and its wood is water-resistant—a characteristic very valued in bayou country. The bark starts as a reddish color but later matures to an ash gray. When holes, caused by a fungus, are seen in the wood to give it a distinctive look, the wood is described as being “peggy” or “pecky”.
When it comes to college football, there now exists numerous bowl games, and it can be confusing where each is played. The Mercedes-Benz Superdome street address is 1500 Sugar Bowl Drive. Guess which bowl game is played there. The Sugar Bowl has been around since 1935 and originally was played at Tulane Stadium. In 1975, the bowl was moved to the Superdome.
The Atchafalaya Basin, located in St. Martin Parish, is the world’s largest freshwater river basin/wetland. It contains 1.4 million acres of bayous, backwater lakes, swamps, hardwoods, and bottomlands; approximately 300 species of birds, and an estimated 65 species of the cold-blooded creepy stuff…err…I mean reptiles. If gators, turtles, lizards, and snakes are your things, consider taking an Atchafalaya Swamp tour. For tour information, visit the Basin Landing & Marina website or the McGee’s Swamp Tours website.
More than 110,000 miles of pipeline runs through Louisiana. That’s a lot of pipe laid. (Sorry, couldn’t resist the terrible joke. If I was CinemaSins, I would have to sin myself. Psst…if you haven’t checked out CinemaSins on YouTube, you’re missing out.)
When Louisiana seceded from the Union in 1861, it remained an independent state for two months before joining the Confederate States of America.

For more Louisiana facts and trivia, visit the post I did earlier this year at the following link.

http://www.genevivechambleeconnect.wordpress.com/2018/08/08/Louisiana-trivia-facts/

Don’t forget to visit Creole Bayou again. New posts are made on Wednesdays. Furthermore, bonus posts for my special series on Greek life, sororities, and everything parents or students wanting to join a sorority (or fraternity) should know is posted each Monday. If you have any questions or suggestions about this post or any others, feel free to comment below or tweet me at @dolynesaidso. You also can follow me on Instagram at genevivechambleeauthor or search me on Goodreads or Amazon Authors.

Enjoy sports romance? Check out my new adult romance, Defending the Net, released on November 10. It is the second in my hockey series and guaranteed to melt the ice. It will be sold at Kindle, Apple Store, Nook, Kobo, !ndigo, Angus & Robertson, and Mondadori Store. It is the second in my hockey series and guaranteed to melt the ice. Order a copy now at www.books2read.com/defending. Crossing the line could cost the game.

Missed the first in my hockey romance series? Don’t worry. Out of the Penalty Box, an adult romance where it’s one minute in the box or a lifetime out is available at http://amzn.to/2Bhnngw. It also can be ordered on iTunes, Nook, or Kobo. For more links where to purchase or to read the blurb, please visit http://bit.ly/2i9SqpH.

Life’s Roux: Wrong Doors, my steamy romantic comedy, is available at Red Sage Publishing. To order, follow the link to http://bit.ly/2CtE7Ez or to Amazon at http://amzn.to/2lCQXpt.

Copies of all my books and stories are available in paper, eBook, and audio on Amazon, iTunes, Kobo, and Barnes & Noble. The links are listed in my Writing Projects page (http://bit.ly/2iDYRxU) along with descriptions of each of my novels or stories.

NEWSLETTER! Want to get the latest information and updates about my writing projects, giveaways, contests, and reveals first? Click https://genevivechambleeconnect.wordpress.com/newsletter/  and signup today.

DISCLAIMER: Creole Bayou is not sponsored or being paid to endorse any business, website, person, podcast, broadcast, videos, philanthropy, or products. Any shoutouts given is due to personally liking a product or cause. There is no intention to slight any competitors or introduce bias. If you have a product or service that is related to anything mentioned in this post and would like a shoutout in the future, please do not hesitate to contact via email to inform me of such product or service.

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Love vs Lust

I know the title of this post is Lust vs Love, but I must do a bit of housekeeping first. But I promise I will get to the topic.

Thank you, thank you, thank you! I appreciate each of you so much and none of this would be possible without your support. I cannot say thank you enough for allowing me to have such an awesome week (and weeks) leading up to the release of my sports romance, Defending the Net, that follows the story of Brighton and Gatien, two hockey goalies who are competing for the starting position. DTN was released yesterday, and the reception has been great. If you missed the release, it is not too late to get in on the fun or order a copy. I will link the ordering information below. However, just because DTN is released does not mean that I am slowing down any.

For the last two weeks, I have been uploading bonus content to my blog by posting daily. The feedback has been great. I love hearing from you. Please continue to send emails and commenting on the posts. If you liked the bonus content, keep your eyes peeled. I may have something in store (*smiley face, wink, wink). I will give you a hint of what to expect, though. I will be expanding my blog to explore and discuss more themes and subjects while maintaining the favorites and sticking close to my roots. To make it easier for readers to follow their favorite topics/themes, I’ll be categorizing the days so that posts aren’t random. To be sure not to miss it, please follow this blog (Creole Bayou) and sign up for my newsletter. Also, if there are certain topics that you would like for me to address, give me a holler.

While I’m here, I should announce that I will not post my quarterly goals this quarter for several reasons. I began posting my goals so that I could publicly be held accountable for getting things done. It served as a great motivation for me not to be slacking. However, this quarter has been a lot different than other quarters. The most obvious reason why I am electing not to post the results is that my timetable is off. And when I say off, I mean off. When I first created my goals, I miscalculated the deadline. I started over and then I missed posting the outcome in a timely fashion.

Second, some of my goals were difficult to track. I didn’t hit my “target”, but I had neglected to include the prerequisites in my timeline. For example, one of my goals was to edit and rework one of my short stories. In order to do so, I had to do additional research. I had not anticipated how time-consuming the research would be. Once compiled, the time allotted for that edit had lapsed over into another area. Yes, I know that’s my own doing, and I accept responsibility for not anticipating better.

Third, I had some major projects going on. My “beast” is still ornery but is being tamed slowly. I have learned it has to marinate, at times, before continuing. I actually achieved my quarterly goal for this, but to do so, I had to set aside other projects.

Finally, I had a lot going on personally with family and prior obligations. It’s been a happy time but a lot of demands that required immediate attention. I have been spending a significant amount of time on the road.

So, that’s the housekeeping update. Now onto today’s post.

I’m a sucker for a good romance, but it is intriguing how so many “love stories” I read aren’t about love. It’s lust. It’s bothersome to begin investing in a “romance” novel when it is actually a “lust” novel. And I’m not speaking of erotica, which is a creature all on its own. With erotica, the focus is on sex. No, I mean stories where nothing is beyond skin deep. Attraction is important, yes. Sex can be important as well. But those two elements, isolated or combined, does not a romance make. In a romance, sex may be involved, but it is a sexual intimacy. In other words, more than just physical attraction and pleasure exists.

People are complicated. Emotions are complicated. Therefore, it stands to reason that love would be complicated. However, one has a basic understanding of what love is, it is not difficult to decipher between love and lust.

In a recent novel I was reading, the hero and the heroine couldn’t keep their hands off of each other. The mutual attraction was strong. However, after a while, I realized that the two did not like each other. Many couples in love bicker, but this was more than spousal/couple spats. The troupe of opposite attract was taken to a different level. There is nothing wrong with a couple having differences. In fact, they probably would be boring if they were clones of each other. But this couple had nothing in common. Every conversation was confrontational and a source of conflict. If they weren’t arguing, they were silent. Not even their core values were the same. There was scene after scene of what was supposed to be witty banter but gradually became harsh criticisms and belittlement of each other. Because of this, there was a lack of trust and openness. Yet, somehow, they always managed to fall into bed together. They demonstrated no signs of respecting each other, and apart from their occasional roll in the hay, they lived separate lives. Yet, this was billed as a romance/love story.

Love is intense emotions or feelings of caring and affection towards another person. People in love have deep meaningful conversations, even if they disagree. They share experiences and spend time together engaging in activities other than sex. Lust, on the other hand, is rooted in sexual desire or want for another person. As long as someone is getting their rocks off, nothing else matters.

The following are nine (because I couldn’t think of ten) differences between love and lust.

Love

A desire to have deep meaningful conversations
Focused on getting to know and understand the person
Learning small, intimate details of a person’s life
Attracted mainly to what the person thinks, values, and is interested in
Enjoys listening to each other
Being friends is important, values friendship
Thinks of the other person first, is selfless
Sees a whole person
Says what the other person needs to hear

Lust

Prefer not to have conversations or discuss feelings
Focused on sex and/or a physical relationship
Knows few to know small details or facts about the person
Attracted mainly to physical appearance
Enjoys engaging in activities together that do not require conversing
Being friends is not important
Thinks of self first, is egocentric
Sees parts of a person
Says what the other person wants to hear

Don’t forget to visit Creole Bayou again. New posts are made on Wednesdays. Furthermore, my special series on Greek life, sororities, and everything parents or students wanting to join a sorority (or fraternity) should know is posted each Monday. If you have any questions or suggestions about this post or any others, feel free to comment below or tweet me at @dolynesaidso. You also can follow me on Instagram at genevivechambleeauthor or search me on Goodreads or Amazon Authors.

Enjoy sports romance? Check out my new adult romance, Defending the Net, released on November 10. It is the second in my hockey series and guaranteed to melt the ice. It will be sold at Kindle, Apple Store, Nook, Kobo, !ndigo, Angus & Robertson, and Mondadori Store. It is the second in my hockey series and guaranteed to melt the ice. Order a copy now at www.books2read.com/defending. Crossing the line could cost the game.

Missed the first in my hockey romance series? Don’t worry. Out of the Penalty Box, an adult romance where it’s one minute in the box or a lifetime out is available at http://amzn.to/2Bhnngw. It also can be ordered on iTunes, Nook, or Kobo. For more links where to purchase or to read the blurb, please visit http://bit.ly/2i9SqpH.

Life’s Roux: Wrong Doors, my steamy romantic comedy, is available at Red Sage Publishing. To order, follow the link to http://bit.ly/2CtE7Ez or to Amazon at http://amzn.to/2lCQXpt.

Copies of all my books and stories are available in paper, eBook, and audio on Amazon, iTunes, Kobo, and Barnes & Noble. The links are listed in my Writing Projects page (http://bit.ly/2iDYRxU) along with descriptions of each of my novels or stories.

NEWSLETTER! Want to get the latest information and updates about my writing projects, giveaways, contests, and reveals first? Click https://genevivechambleeconnect.wordpress.com/newsletter/  and signup today.

Veterans Day v. Memorial Day (Plus Trivia)

Happy Veteran’s Day everybody. A special thank you to all the service men and women for your dedication and commitment. Although today has been set aside in honor, every day is one of appreciation for the military.

Being the daughter of a veteran, I never had any issues distinguishing between Veteran’s Day and Memorial Day. For one, they fall at two very different times of the year. Veteran’s Day is in November when the leaves are changing (hypothetically, because southerners know that isn’t always the case) and gearing up for the big holiday season. Unlike Memorial Day what has a changing date, Veteran’s date is a fixed holiday—November 11. However, I was surprised to learn how many people did not know or understand the difference between the two.

Veterans Day recognizes and honors all person who serves currently or have served in the past in all branches (i.e., army, navy, air force, marine corps, coast guard, and national guard) of the military.

Memorial Day, on the contrary, pays tribute to soldiers who have died in battle, war, as an act of terrorism, or from friendly fire. And while Memorial Day is set to reflect on those who have given the ultimate sacrifice with their lives, I personally do not feel it is inappropriate to give a shout of thanks to our living military on that day as well. Some people take offense to that but considering what these patriots do on a daily basis, I do not consider a heartfelt thank you out of order. In any case, Memorial Day does not have a set date and falls on the last Monday in May when the weather is as hot as all giddy-up and go. On this day, it is appropriate to put flags and flowers on fallen soldiers’ graves. Ironically, Memorial Day is cited as being one of the most dangerous and bloodiest holidays. More motor vehicle accidents occur on this day. There are several theories why this the case (e.g., people rushing to get an early start to a long weekend), but there is no definitive answer.

Memorial Day was first celebrated officially on May 30, 1868, at Arlington National Cemetery, in response to honor the estimated 620,000 fallen Civil War soldiers. Major General John A. Logan declared it as a day to commentate the deceased soldiers by decorating their graves. Back then, it was known as Decoration Day. The name was changed to Memorial Day around 1882 but didn’t catch on until much later. It wasn’t until 1967 that the Federal law officially named it Memorial Day.

Veterans Day, first known as Armistice Day, has not been celebrated as long as Memorial Day. The name Armistice Day was given by President Woodrow Wilson in 1919. The name was changed by President Dwight D. Eisenhower. It became a national holiday in 1938, although, a resolution had been passed in Congress in 1926 to celebrate the day. In 1968, the U.S. Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holidays Bill. This bill sought to schedule most holidays to where workers would have extended weekends throughout the year. This law became effective in 1971. However, many argued that it was important to commemorate certain holidays on their actual day of occurrence. In 1975, President Gerald Ford returned Veterans Day to be celebrated on November 11. It is interesting to note that Australia, Canada, France, and Great Britain all also celebrate their military on or near November 11.

In 2014, California, Florida, and Texas were reported to have a high percentage of veterans living there. Since these are some of the largest states (in population) in the U.S. anyway, I can’t say that is all that surprising.

Don’t forget to visit Creole Bayou again. New posts are made on Wednesdays. Furthermore, my special series on Greek life, sororities, and everything parents or students wanting to join a sorority (or fraternity) should know is posted each Monday. If you have any questions or suggestions about this post or any others, feel free to comment below or tweet me at @dolynesaidso. You also can follow me on Instagram at genevivechambleeauthor or search me on Goodreads or Amazon Authors.

Enjoy sports romance? Check out my new adult romance, Defending the Net, released on November 10. It is the second in my hockey series and guaranteed to melt the ice. It will be sold at Kindle, Apple Store, Nook, Kobo, !ndigo, Angus & Robertson, and Mondadori Store. It is the second in my hockey series and guaranteed to melt the ice. Order a copy now at www.books2read.com/defending. Crossing the line could cost the game.

Missed the first in my hockey romance series? Don’t worry. Out of the Penalty Box, an adult romance where it’s one minute in the box or a lifetime out is available at http://amzn.to/2Bhnngw. It also can be ordered on iTunes, Nook, or Kobo. For more links where to purchase or to read the blurb, please visit http://bit.ly/2i9SqpH.

Life’s Roux: Wrong Doors, my steamy romantic comedy, is available at Red Sage Publishing. To order, follow the link to http://bit.ly/2CtE7Ez or to Amazon at http://amzn.to/2lCQXpt.

Copies of all my books and stories are available in paper, eBook, and audio on Amazon, iTunes, Kobo, and Barnes & Noble. The links are listed in my Writing Projects page (http://bit.ly/2iDYRxU) along with descriptions of each of my novels or stories.

NEWSLETTER! Want to get the latest information and updates about my writing projects, giveaways, contests, and reveals first? Click https://genevivechambleeconnect.wordpress.com/newsletter/  and signup today.

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Defending the Net Released

It’s here! It’s finally here! YEAH! It’s the release of my sexy sports novel, Defending the Net, that follows the romance of goalies Brighton and Gatien. These bad boys of hockey bring back the term body-check. I am so excited and stoked that words can’t express it enough. I can barely believe it is happening. That means this day must be celebrated (as if I haven’t been celebrating the entire week).

Let me tell you. This week has been insane. I’ve had tons of tech issues. I was beginning to think my life was a remake of Maximum Overdrive with the way my electronics began taking a life of its on.

My email went all wonky, and important messages were being directed to spam. I have no idea when it started doing it, but I’m assuming it has been several weeks, maybe even months. If anyone emailed me within the last couple of weeks, I’m still going through all of it and am responding as fast as I can. Second, my blog cropped up weirdness and began posting at random time after the clocks were set back for the time change. First, it defaulted everything to noon. Later, I noticed some had reset to 9:00 AM. I’ve had to go in twice now to fix it back to 10:00 AM CST, but don’t be surprised if my post comes in at some other time.

Then, my Facebook page decided it didn’t want to allow me to post anything there. Nope, nothing. And then, when I finally managed to get it to upload and it was incorrect, it wouldn’t allow me to delete. I had to have others go into my page for me, and it even gave them problems. So, who knows. I guess the stars just lined up, and said, “Not today you won’t.” But, oh yes, I will because today, is the day. DTN is released, and I couldn’t be happier. Every mishap has not deterred it from happening, and I’m overjoyed to be sharing it with each of you.

Jumping right in with tons of info in this post.

BLOG

So, to recap, anyone following knows that I have been posting every day since October 28 with special posts leading up to the release. That has been tons of fun. Each has provided some type of insight or relates to DTN. Here’s a quick rundown of posts.

Love & Sociopaths (Halloween inspired and not at all demented and dark)
Kissing Smooch Smooch
Romantic Horrors (Another Halloween inspiration)
Real Talk About Your Characters Writing Tag (A fun way for writers to talk about their WIP and books. I used DTN characters to complete this tag.)
DTN: What’s That (A synopsis and background of DTN)
The Quick and Dirty Guide to Hockey (The rules of hockey explained)
An Interview with Myself (Answering FAQ about DTN and other matters)
Beer Facts (Cause hockey players drink beer)
Presenting the Sigma Male (Step aside alpha. There’s a new man in town.)
Saint Anne, Louisiana (All about the hometown of DTN)
Defending the Net Playlist (The music I frequently listened to or was inspired by while writing DTN)
Meet the Players (All about the characters of DTN)

All of these posts are on my blog. Also, let me remind everyone that my giveaways are still going happening.

CONTESTS

Contest #1

Today is the last day to win a free DVD from Hot Tree Publishing when you grab a copy of DTN. Visit their Facebook page for all the details. (Hot Tree Publishing Facebook)

Contest #2

Win a free signed copy of Out of the Penalty Box, my first hockey romance that was released earlier this year. All one has to do to enter the giveaway is:

Follow this blog on Creole Bayou
Like this post/leave a comment
Join my Newsletter/Mailing list at https://genevivechambleeconnect.wordpress.com/newsletter/

BONUS ENTRY: For anyone who follows steps 1-3 AND preorders a copy of Defending the Net, your name will be entered twice for a chance to win. Just post a copy of your order receipt below or email it to genevivechamblee@yahoo.com

It’s that simple. A winner will be chosen at random. The giveaway ends 11/11/18 at 11:59 CST.

Contest #3

For a chance to win a free copy of DTN, post a picture of the DTN cover on Instagram and tag me in it so I’ll know it’s there. My Instagram is genevivechambleeauthor if you would like to leave me a message or comment on any posts. The giveaway ends 11/30/18 at 11:59 CST.

Or if you prefer, you can post a picture of the DTN cover on Twitter and tag me there. My twitter is @dolynesaidso. The giveaway ends 11/30/18 at 11:59 CST.

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WHERE TO PURCHASE

GR: https://www.goodreads.com/b…/show/41207644-defending-the-net

Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2L8LWQn

All Links: books2read.com/defending

WHERE TO WRITE AND READ REVIEWS

I always love hearing from readers. If after reading you would like to tell others about the experience, I’m on both Amazon and Goodreads. I will list the links below. I appreciate honest reviews, so whatever you have to say, feel free to post it. Even if you decide you do not want to write a review, please consider stopping by Amazon, Goodreads, or both and giving it a star liking/ranking.

Amazon: www.amazon.com/author/genevivechamblee

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/16429845.Genevive_Chamblee

“I want to read DTN but…”

Here’s the tea.

A common question that I have been asked and have addressed but would like to address again is DTN’s relationship with my first sports novel, Out of the Penalty Box. I am frequently asked if DTN is a sequel. No, it is not. OotPB is the story of Aidan and Christophe. They make an appearance in DTN as do some of the other OotPB characters, but DTN is the story of Brighton and Gatien. DTN can be read as a standalone. However, OotPB is available for purchase as well. (Or if you participate in one of my contests, you may win a free copy of it.)

Another common question is one needs to have an in-depth knowledge about hockey to enjoy DTN. No. I do my best to explain any technical terms or rules within the story. But for those who want to know more prior to reading, I wrote a post (A Quick and Dirty Guide to Hockey) that covers this topic. But also remember, DTN is first and far most a romance.

Many of my characters speak French, Cajun French, or French Creole. Sometimes, readers have a concern that they will not be able to understand because they do not speak these languages. Know that I do my best to explain each foreign word/term either directly or with context clues. I also keep the usage of any of these languages to a minimum. Therefore, the story is easy to read and understand.

Some ARC readers have asked if the story of Brighton and Gatien will continue. It depends. If enough of you say that you would like to read more about them, then please let me know in either an email or comment on one of my social media platforms. I main goal is to entertain my readers. I have said it several times, without my readers, none of this would be possible. I cannot express my gratitude and appreciation enough.

Do you have time to read it? I’ve been informed by ARC readers that DTN goes by quickly because of the pacing. It’s also not 100 billion pages that will take months. Thus, if you’re pressed for time DTN may be a book for you.

You’re still not sure because it’s, “eh, just another romance”. With DTN, I try to go beyond typical romance and bring both drama and comedy. I want to do the unexpected and break stereotypic molds. My characters may not be typical or react as most. I also appreciate diversity. Hopefully, readers will find characters they can connect or relate. I like bringing giggles when least expected, too.

Yes, but is it sexy? Oh, yeah. DTN is steaming hot. Any hotter and the ice rink would be a sauna.

TWEETING ON TWITTER

Okay, so I guess that’s all I have for now. Today, I will be around for most of the day on Twitter. If you have questions or want to chat about DTN, my novels, or anything else, tweet me @dolynesaidso. Drop in and say hello.

Keep your eyes peeled for other adventures today. Who knows what I may have spring up later?

 

 

 

GIVEAWAY, GIVEAWAY, GIVEAWAY!

It’s GIVEAWAY TIME!!!! Yes, here’s a great giveaway sponsored by HOT TREE PUBLISHING.

Hot Tree Publishing

#Preorder #Giveaway #GayRomance #Sports #Hockey

Defending the Net by Genevive Chamblee

Brighton Rabalais only wants to play hockey. He’s uninterested in the politics behind the sport, but his recruiting to the Saint Anne’s Civets is as much about politics as it is his hockey abilities. He’s been hired to replace the enigmatic, three-time champion, veteran goalie, Gatien Glesseau, who happens to be as sexy as he is talented.

Their clashing is inevitable, but Brighton can’t get a read on Gatien. However, with his own secrets a concern, Brighton doesn’t need another complication. But when Gatien threatens to invade Brighton’s privacy, Brighton defends his heart with the same vigor and passion as he does the net.

GR: https://www.goodreads.com/b…/show/41207644-defending-the-net

Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2L8LWQn

All Links: books2read.com/defending

Meet the DTN Players

My sports romance novella, Defending the Net (DTN) is being released on 11/10/18. Today, I will be introducing the cast of DTN. Because this is a spoiler-free post, not all cast members will be introduced. The reason being is that I would be unable to effectively discuss any of them without giving away key plot points. I’ll begin the introductions with the MC and leading man, Brighton Rabalais.

Brighton Rabalais, or Bry as he is called by his closest friends, is a rookie goalie, newly recruited to the Saint Anne Civet hockey franchise. He’s a first-round draft pick with loads of talent and a humble heart. All he wants is to play hockey. His confidence is swayed, not by a lack of talent, but due to the politics behind his recruitment. It’s dirty. He’s there to undermine payment negotiations with veteran goalie, Gatien Glesseau.

Gatien Glesseau is a three-time national champion with good looks, great moves, and a bite every bit as severe as his growl. He’s able to turn on and off his emotions quicker than most blink. His goal (literally) is to be treated fairly, but he understands that’s a slim chance of happening with Brighton in the Brighton. Gatien is handsome, smart, and some years older than Brighton. However, that doesn’t mean he can’t learn things from his junior. It also means his Brighton is a real threat.

Next up is Semien Metoyér, the Civets center, and Brighton’s best friend since college. Semien is a type of enigma to the hockey stereotype with his mild-manner, clean-cut, and non-foul mouth. One might mistake him for a video gamer than a hockey player—though they’d be very wrong. Already in the national league, Semien is sure to have Brighton’s back.

Dylan is Brighton’s roommate and the antithesis of Brighton. While Brighton is quiet and humble, Dylan is boisterous and breaming with confidence to the point of arrogance. Not only is he the opposite in personality, but physically he’s much smaller—shorter, thinner, and not very strong.

Dr. Janesen is Brighton’s warmhearted, nurturing, down-to-earth physician. She tells it like it is. Although always professional, she cares deeply for Brighton as if he were a member of her family.

Christophe Fortenot is the team’s captain and might as well say, the welcoming committee. Team members follow Christophe’s lead. Therefore, having his acceptance is necessary and more important than the owners. Christophe is … well, Christophe. He has his own flare.

Finally, Nicco Bale is another veteran player. On the ice, Nicco adds power and muscle to the team. Off the ice, he’s a bit of a busybody and instigator. However, he means no harm, and characters tend to laugh when he around … sometimes. Nicco doesn’t take himself seriously, and that works for him. But he’s more complex than he seems.

And that’s it for the cast. Read about them all in DTN.

Don’t forget to visit Creole Bayou again. New posts are made on Wednesdays. If you have any questions or suggestions about this post or any others, feel free to comment below or tweet me at @dolynesaidso. You also can follow me on Instagram at genevivechambleeauthor or search me on Goodreads or Amazon Authors.

Enjoy sports romance? Check out my new adult romance, Defending the Net, being released in November. It is the second in my hockey series and guaranteed to melt the ice. Preorder at: https://books2read.com/defending. Crossing the line could cost the game.

Missed the first in my hockey romance series? Don’t worry. Out of the Penalty Box, an adult romance where it’s one minute in the box or a lifetime out is available at http://amzn.to/2Bhnngw. It also can be ordered on iTunes, Nook, or Kobo. For more links where to purchase or to read the blurb, please visit http://bit.ly/2i9SqpH.

Life’s Roux: Wrong Doors, my steamy romantic comedy, is available at Red Sage Publishing. To order, follow the link to Amazon at http://amzn.to/2lCQXpt.

Copies of all my books and stories are available in paper, eBook, and audio on Amazon, iTunes, Kobo, and Barnes & Noble. The links are listed in my Writing Projects page (http://bit.ly/2iDYRxU) along with descriptions of each of my novels or stories.

NEWSLETTER! Want to get the latest information and updates about my writing projects, giveaways, contests, and reveals first? Click on Newsletter and signup today.

If you enjoy reading this blog, please share it with your friends and family. There’s never too many people in the bayou. Spread the word.

 

DTN Playlist

Frequently when I write, I listen to music. Not only does it block background noise to help me focus, it sometimes gives me motivation and invigorates my creativity. The following musical choices were songs that in my mind correspond to the scene I was writing at the time. Note, I’m not endorsing or receiving any monetary gains for mentioning the songs in this list. Additionally, this list is not an official soundtrack to Defending the Net (DTN). Instead, it is a comprised list of sounds that I listened to numerous times while writing DTN and have come to, in my mind, associate them with particular scenes.

Many writers and authors do this. When reading I often wonder what is going through an author’s head to inspire a scene. So, I thought it would be fun (and possibly scary) to share what was going through my mind. It also may give readers a sneak peek into the feel of DTN.

My playlist consists of music from diverse genres and different decades. What can I say? I’m eclectic. Some scenes were inspired by more than one song. In no way is this list an exhaustive list of the music I listened to while writing DTN, but these are the ones that stand out. I can’t even explain some reasons my mind made the links.

Chapter 1: Hells Bells – AC/DC. There’s no better way to get DTN started than with this song. The ringing bells have a feeling of impending dread and doom, yet, they continue to ring. I can envision Brighton entering the bar with a similar demeanor.

Chapter 2: Hate My Life – Theory of a Deadman. It’s sassy, a bit sarcastic, and amusingly self-pitying laced with a hint of anger. However, the mood is upbeat, and one can’t take it seriously.

Chapter 3: Here Now (Madness) – Hillsong. This song may seem an odd choice, but it’s a perfect fit. It’s a Christian song that expresses an inability to explain what is felt and a willingness to open one’s mind and heart to something beyond self and walk in faith. The instrumental gives a sense of floating. However, if one uses a secular interpretation of the lyrics, they easily express Brighton’s, the main character, mentality. He can’t explain his emotions and doubts his ears.

Chapter 4: Teas’n Pleas’n – Dangerous Minds. This song is upbeat, a little chaotic with changing moods like the characters, and pure fun. Nothing more needs to be said.

Chapter 5: Delicate – Taylor Swift.

Chapter 6: What’s My Age Again – Blink 182. It’s not so much the lyrics as it is the spirit that links the association in my mind.

Chapter 7: Take On Me – A-Ha. This just fits.

Chapter 8: Something Just Like This – Chainsmokers. I found myself always working on this chapter late at night, even during the editing. While it’s true, I’m a night owl and work on most stories after the sun has set, I frequently make the most of any spare time in the day to write as well. It never panned out that this scene I found spare time in the day. I don’t know what it is about this song but it seemed a fitting melody to segue the day to night. This is the reason for this association—that longing for wanting something simple and not asking much.

Chapter 9: Whatever It Takes – Imagine Dragon. Simply put: Brighton is a go-getter and following his dreams. This is why he is the hotshot rookie goalie for the Civets. Well … kinda.

Chapter 10: Hit Me With Your Best Shot – Pat Benatar and Let the Bodies Hit the Floor – Drowning Pool. Seriously, there can’t be a story about a contact sport without some songs about doing physical and mental damage. There are surges of adrenaline and defiance to succumb.

Chapter 11: Blow Me (One Last Kiss) – P!nk. This chapter definitely gives off the vibe, energy, and intensity of this song. Readers who read this chapter while listening to this song I think will quickly understand why I’ve associated the two.

This chapter is also inspired by Psycho – Post Malone Featuring Ty Dolla $ign. It’s very mellow. Mainly, this song speaks of trust.

Chapter 12: The Middle – Zedd, Maren Morris, & Grey. This entire song is a plea. It’s also a search for compromise and peace. These elements are common threads throughout DTN and really could be applied to multiple chapters. But I think I may have listened to it more in Chapter 12 than in any other chapter.

Chapter 13: Meant to Be – Bebe Rexha featuring Florida Georgia Line. This sparks inspiration.

Don’t forget to visit Creole Bayou again. New posts are made on Wednesdays. If you have any questions or suggestions about this post or any others, feel free to comment below or tweet me at @dolynesaidso. You also can follow me on Instagram at genevivechambleeauthor or search me on Goodreads or Amazon Authors.

Enjoy sports romance? Check out my new adult romance, Defending the Net, being released in November. It is the second in my hockey series and guaranteed to melt the ice. Preorder at: https://books2read.com/defending. Crossing the line could cost the game.

Missed the first in my hockey romance series? Don’t worry. Out of the Penalty Box, an adult romance where it’s one minute in the box or a lifetime out is available at http://amzn.to/2Bhnngw. It also can be ordered on iTunes, Nook, or Kobo. For more links where to purchase or to read the blurb, please visit http://bit.ly/2i9SqpH.

Life’s Roux: Wrong Doors, my steamy romantic comedy, is available at Red Sage Publishing. To order, follow the link to Amazon at http://amzn.to/2lCQXpt.

Copies of all my books and stories are available in paper, eBook, and audio on Amazon, iTunes, Kobo, and Barnes & Noble. The links are listed in my Writing Projects page (http://bit.ly/2iDYRxU) along with descriptions of each of my novels or stories.

NEWSLETTER! Want to get the latest information and updates about my writing projects, giveaways, contests, and reveals first? Click on Newsletter and signup today.

If you enjoy reading this blog, please share it with your friends and family. There’s never too many people in the bayou. Spread the word.

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Saint Anne, Louisiana

Several of my stories have taken place in Saint Anne, including Out of the Penalty Box (OotPB) and Defending the Net (DTN). Both OotPB and DTN follow the hockey team, the Saint Anne Civets. It is also home to the Saint Anne Hounds football team. Today, I thought I’d tell a little something about the city since it is a type of love story.

Saint Anne, Louisiana, founded in 1726 by the great step-nephew of Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne de Bienville, Roche d’Iberville, and named after Saint Anne of David’s house, mother of Mary and grandmother of Jesus. It’s located in south Louisiana in western Jefferson Parish near New Orleans. At two feet below sea level, it has a population of 96,848 and diverse culture. Like New Orleans, it still has a working streetcar transit system, heavy French Creole and Cajun influence, and a layout based upon social economic status, with the most prominent neighborhoods being located closer to the city’s center. The predominant religion is Roman Catholic, and the city is filled with beautiful cathedrals and statues.

In 1722, a hurricane destroyed most of New Orleans. Roche, a heavy drinker and ferocious gambler, resided in the city and lost everything. On the brink of starvation and hunted by his debt collectors, Roche set out on a fishing expedition. Upon return, his boat ran aground in hostile Talwalka, a derelict subsect of the Coushatta Indians, territory. At first, the tribe was merely curious of the white fishermen. However, upon a search, they discovered Roche and his men had caught a pocket shark. Pocket sharks were held in veneration because they were thought to be sacred to Nerrivik, the god of the ocean. Catching one was believed to anger the gods and required a blood sacrifice for the offender. For this reason, Roche was taken back to the tribal site and sentenced to death. However, Hurit intervened to save his life.

Hurit was the daughter of Pelahat, the chief of the Talwalka. Having been a liaison between the Indians and white settlers along the Mississippi, Hurit successfully pleaded with her father to save Roche’s life. Her father granted her request but banished her from the tribe. Grateful and indebted for the gesture, Roche saw this as an opportunity to begin a new life. He quit gambling and drinking (for the most part), took Hurit as his bride, and moved to an area he claimed as Saint Anne.

Don’t forget to visit Creole Bayou again. New posts are made on Wednesdays. If you have any questions or suggestions about this post or any others, feel free to comment below or tweet me at @dolynesaidso. You also can follow me on Instagram at genevivechambleeauthor or search me on Goodreads or Amazon Authors.

Enjoy sports romance? Check out my new adult romance, Defending the Net, being released in November. It is the second in my hockey series and guaranteed to melt the ice. Preorder at: https://books2read.com/defending. Crossing the line could cost the game.

Missed the first in my hockey romance series? Don’t worry. Out of the Penalty Box, an adult romance where it’s one minute in the box or a lifetime out is available at http://amzn.to/2Bhnngw. It also can be ordered on iTunes, Nook, or Kobo. For more links where to purchase or to read the blurb, please visit http://bit.ly/2i9SqpH.

Life’s Roux: Wrong Doors, my steamy romantic comedy, is available at Red Sage Publishing. To order, follow the link to Amazon at http://amzn.to/2lCQXpt.

Copies of all my books and stories are available in paper, eBook, and audio on Amazon, iTunes, Kobo, and Barnes & Noble. The links are listed in my Writing Projects page (http://bit.ly/2iDYRxU) along with descriptions of each of my novels or stories.

NEWSLETTER! Want to get the latest information and updates about my writing projects, giveaways, contests, and reveals first? Click on Newsletter and signup today.

If you enjoy reading this blog, please share it with your friends and family. There’s never too many people in the bayou. Spread the word.

Advertisements

GIVEAWAY, GIVEAWAY, GIVEAWAY!

It’s GIVEAWAY TIME!!!! Yes, here’s a great giveaway sponsored by HOT TREE PUBLISHING.

Hot Tree Publishing

#Preorder #Giveaway #GayRomance #Sports #Hockey

Defending the Net by Genevive Chamblee

Brighton Rabalais only wants to play hockey. He’s uninterested in the politics behind the sport, but his recruiting to the Saint Anne’s Civets is as much about politics as it is his hockey abilities. He’s been hired to replace the enigmatic, three-time champion, veteran goalie, Gatien Glesseau, who happens to be as sexy as he is talented.

Their clashing is inevitable, but Brighton can’t get a read on Gatien. However, with his own secrets a concern, Brighton doesn’t need another complication. But when Gatien threatens to invade Brighton’s privacy, Brighton defends his heart with the same vigor and passion as he does the net.

GR: https://www.goodreads.com/b…/show/41207644-defending-the-net

Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2L8LWQn

All Links: books2read.com/defending