Lauri Robinson's Blog, page 23
February 28, 2011
Missing in Action
Yep, that's me. Last Monday I decided to paint my kitchen, well, that led to painting the ceiling, which led to painting the dinning room, which led to painting the living room, which led to painting the hallway. I haven't done the laundry room, yet, I think that'll be in a few days. All this painting re-energized my muse which is now screaming to get some writing done. Besides, I wrenched my back moving the sofa. Yes, I should have asked DH for help, but he was in the garage and I was on a roll.
Besides painting, we've enjoyed overnight company. My mother had another chemo treatment so she spent a few days here, and was great company, as well as a knowledgeable supervisor when it came to paint colors and applications. She worked in a hardware store for years, so she does know her stuff. We also had a fit of giggles while I shaved her head. The doctor said her hair would fall out on day 18 and right on schedule it did. She asked me to get rid of the rest before it fell in her soup. And on Saturday night our oldest granddaughter wanted to have a sleep over. Papa and I enjoyed our day with her yesterday and per her instructions, had supper at KFC and dessert at Dairy Queen before taking her home. Life certainly is good.
Now, that I've cleaned up the last paint roller and re-hung the last dead animal (my home décor demonstrates my hubby's love of hunting) I'm going to spend the rest of the day catching up on emails and getting some of the scenes playing in my head on paper.
Wildcat Bride, The Quinter Brides book 5 has officially hit the coming soon page at the Wild Rose Press Website. Also, if you're interested, visit here to view some great original pictures of the Civil War Era.
Have a great week, everyone!
Besides painting, we've enjoyed overnight company. My mother had another chemo treatment so she spent a few days here, and was great company, as well as a knowledgeable supervisor when it came to paint colors and applications. She worked in a hardware store for years, so she does know her stuff. We also had a fit of giggles while I shaved her head. The doctor said her hair would fall out on day 18 and right on schedule it did. She asked me to get rid of the rest before it fell in her soup. And on Saturday night our oldest granddaughter wanted to have a sleep over. Papa and I enjoyed our day with her yesterday and per her instructions, had supper at KFC and dessert at Dairy Queen before taking her home. Life certainly is good.
Now, that I've cleaned up the last paint roller and re-hung the last dead animal (my home décor demonstrates my hubby's love of hunting) I'm going to spend the rest of the day catching up on emails and getting some of the scenes playing in my head on paper.
Wildcat Bride, The Quinter Brides book 5 has officially hit the coming soon page at the Wild Rose Press Website. Also, if you're interested, visit here to view some great original pictures of the Civil War Era.
Have a great week, everyone!
February 21, 2011
Lots and Lots of Snow
Like 12-15 inches of snow since yesterday, and it's still falling. I do believe I'm snowed in. DH left with the plow truck a couple hours ago, and I can't even see the trail he left in the driveway. Since I don't have to go anywhere today, it would be a perfect day to write, but the black moment in my latest WIP needs to be fleshed out a bit more. I do that best when I'm busy, so I'm thinking about painting my kitchen. I did the downstairs bathroom last week and really like how it turned out…We'll just have to see what the day brings.
We celebrated our granddaughter's birthday on Saturday. (She turns two on Thursday.) Papa is her favorite word and person. As guests started to arrive, she snuggled up next to him and didn't move until it was time to open gifts, which she tore into like a well-seasoned pro.
I received a lovely review from the Long and Short of It Reviews for Guardian Bride last week. Reviewer Camellia said, "With memorable metaphors and a special guardian angel, Lauri Robinson sweeps the reader into the Quinters' lives…"
That's about it from my little spot in the world today. I'm off to scrub the kitchen walls. Maybe they don't need paint….
I hope you're enjoying your day, whether it's sunny or snowy, warm or cold.
We celebrated our granddaughter's birthday on Saturday. (She turns two on Thursday.) Papa is her favorite word and person. As guests started to arrive, she snuggled up next to him and didn't move until it was time to open gifts, which she tore into like a well-seasoned pro. I received a lovely review from the Long and Short of It Reviews for Guardian Bride last week. Reviewer Camellia said, "With memorable metaphors and a special guardian angel, Lauri Robinson sweeps the reader into the Quinters' lives…"
That's about it from my little spot in the world today. I'm off to scrub the kitchen walls. Maybe they don't need paint….
I hope you're enjoying your day, whether it's sunny or snowy, warm or cold.
February 16, 2011
E-Readers
As many of you know, I received a Kindle for Christmas, and yes, I'm still loving it. I tucks so nicely into my Miche purse (of which I just got two new shells). The Kindle makes it is so convenient to read a few pages while waiting practically anywhere, and it's eliminated that stack of books on my bedside table.
It seems every time I pull it out, someone either says, "Oh, I got a Kindle (or Nook) for Christmas. I love it!" or "Is that a Kindle? Can I see it? I've been considering getting one." Once in awhile someone will say, "I'll never get one of those. I love the feel of a book too much." Or "That would make my eyes hurt."
It seems e-readers were the gift of the season, for all ages. Sales in e-books have continued to increase since December, and libraries have seen a drastic increase in people 'borrowing' e-books. (I still have to figure out that app.)
As for the eye-strain, or the feel of a book…In my opinion—it's inconsequential. Eye-strain happens if you do one thing for too long, including reading paper books. And I still can hold a book between my hands. I have shelves of them; have even picked up a few since getting the Kindle. For me the e-reader is a welcome alternative, not an end-all to how I read in the past.
Okay, enough opinion sharing. I'm off to my WIP. I left the hero and heroine in a cave with a bank robber last night, and am anxious to see what happens.
Create memories today. You'll be glad you did.
It seems every time I pull it out, someone either says, "Oh, I got a Kindle (or Nook) for Christmas. I love it!" or "Is that a Kindle? Can I see it? I've been considering getting one." Once in awhile someone will say, "I'll never get one of those. I love the feel of a book too much." Or "That would make my eyes hurt."
It seems e-readers were the gift of the season, for all ages. Sales in e-books have continued to increase since December, and libraries have seen a drastic increase in people 'borrowing' e-books. (I still have to figure out that app.)
As for the eye-strain, or the feel of a book…In my opinion—it's inconsequential. Eye-strain happens if you do one thing for too long, including reading paper books. And I still can hold a book between my hands. I have shelves of them; have even picked up a few since getting the Kindle. For me the e-reader is a welcome alternative, not an end-all to how I read in the past.
Okay, enough opinion sharing. I'm off to my WIP. I left the hero and heroine in a cave with a bank robber last night, and am anxious to see what happens.
Create memories today. You'll be glad you did.
February 14, 2011
Valentine's Day
Yes, it's the day to celebrate the love in your life, whether it's your soul mate, your family members, or your current love interest. I have so many wonderful Valentine's Day memories it's hard to pick a favorite. I remember receiving a valentine from a boy in grade school that I didn't even know, and another time, a flower from a secret admirer. Do you remember making those Valentine's Day mailboxes to sit on your desk? I do, and I remember when our school made the rule we had to bring a valentine for everyone in the class, which, really should have been in place all along. After all, that is just commonsense. I remember helping my sons fill out their valentines and attach candy to each one, and reading through the ones they'd received when they got home from school. I still have some of the wonderful homemade cards the boys gave me over the years. My hubby has surprised me many times over the years with flowers, candy, one year it was a puppy, (but that's a whole other story) and wonderful evenings out. As we've aged, we've discovered it's more fun to stay home and cook a special meal together rather than find a place that still takes reservations. I truly detest those little buzzing boxes restaurants provide waiting customers. My most special Valentine's Day was probably the one he gave me a new wedding ring set. I had lost the diamond out of my original set and instead of replacing it, as he said he was doing, he surprised me with a new set.
I plan on spending this special day doing one of the things I love most. Writing. I'm making wonderful progress on my latest WIP and in completing the edits on my contracted stories. The first of which will be released in May—the title is yet to be determined, but Wildcat Bride, the fifth Quinter Bride book will be released on April 1st.
I'm off now, to the mountains of Colorado where I left my hero and heroine searching for the Wanda Lou gold mine. I hope each of you has a wonderful day, filled with many pleasures and expressions of love from those you treasure.
February 8, 2011
Research Tidbit
I love research, and lately I stumbled upon this bit of information: In 1880, thirty-nine years before National Prohibition, Kansas legislators passed an amendment that made it illegal to manufacture or sell intoxicating liquors in the state. Many saloons operated illegally, or became known as 'private clubs' depending on local laws. Of course druggist and doctors could dispense alcohol for medicinal purposes. A saddle sore or boil was an often aliment, and one report said depending on the size and location of the boil, the prescription for treatment could include up to 12 pints of spirits and 30 bottles of beer—all of which was to be consumed within eleven days.
Hmmm…makes you wonder about Miss Kitty's Long Branch Saloon, and "Doc" on Gunsmoke, doesn't it?
Speaking of "Doc"…Several years ago my aunt and uncle purchased a house in Burton, Kansas. The home had a closet that every time you closed the door, the light came on. Turned out the home was originally owned by Milburn ("Doc" on Gunsmoke) Stone's mother, and she had been the local telephone operator. The closet was where she had the switchboard and the light switch was installed in the door frame.
Cold here again today, with dangerous wind-chill advisories. The edits on the contracted UNDONE stories are going well, and my mother came up with a story line that's rolling around in my head. People often say they have a good idea for a story or that I should write one about them—I haven't used one before, but her idea has really intrigued me. Of course, I do need to finish several others first.
Stay warm, be happy (yes, it's a choice), and enjoy the day!
February 3, 2011
A Winter Warm Up...
Yes, that's what the weather man promises, and I'm looking forward to it. The wind this morning was brittle. But, I must also mention, he promised a drop back into the deep freeze later in the week with his next breath. Oh, well, life is full of ups and downs, isn't it? As I type this, my mother is taking a nap on my sofa. A month ago she was diagnosed with Lymphoma and had her first Chemo treatment today, which she came through with flying colors! It's been a month of test, scans, biopsies, and doctor visits, and she's been a real trooper through it all. She's 79 and her oncologist keeps telling her this would be a whole different ball game if she was old and frail. Everyone is very optimistic about the final outcome, and we're extremely thankful for the wonderful care she's received from all of the doctors, nurses, surgeons, and other medical professionals. Thank you to all of you who have included her in your thoughts and prayers and put her on your prayer lists. It's sincerely appreciated.
On the writing side, I've finished book one of the three book contract, and having loads of fun with book two and three. These two stories complete a duet of Undones about two widows and the local marshal and his deputy. And I'm still plugging away on the gold mine story. Life is good.
I'm off now to make supper and then Mom, DH, and I are going to watch Secretariat.
Have a great weekend, everyone, and be kind to yourself. You are your own best friend.
On the writing side, I've finished book one of the three book contract, and having loads of fun with book two and three. These two stories complete a duet of Undones about two widows and the local marshal and his deputy. And I'm still plugging away on the gold mine story. Life is good.
I'm off now to make supper and then Mom, DH, and I are going to watch Secretariat.
Have a great weekend, everyone, and be kind to yourself. You are your own best friend.
January 27, 2011
It wasn't a dream...
I've been down with a rotten, kick-my-butt-big-time cold. The kind not even DayQuil/NyQuil helps to conquer. After two days of crawling out of bed for purely essential reasons, I do believe I'm on the mend. Yeah. To prove I'm not just whining about being sick, this is what happened yesterday…
I had to send an email for work, so I dragged myself out of bed and used my Blackberry to send the email since turning on the computer would have been too much work. I then glanced at my personal emails. There was an email from my Harlequin Editor. I read it, but being so fuzzy headed, I went back to bed. Hours later, I woke wondering if I'd dreamt the email. I got up and turned on the computer, after 100+ emails downloaded, I scanned them, and... It hadn't been a dream! There was an offer for a three book contract for their Undone Line. I read it, twice at least, and then, went back to bed. Today, however, I'm alive enough to appreciate it.
I have people ask all the time, what is an Undone? They are historical short stories that are highly sensual. At fifteen thousand words or less, they are available only in e-book, and depict a highly charged, emotional snapshot of two characters at a turning point in their lives. Being so short, there isn't much room for back stories and the characters have to hit the page fully developed and running (so to speak). For me, this makes an Undone more difficult to write than a full length story, but the editing is much easier because of the length, which is a nice payoff.
Harlequin is very open to new writers in this genre, so if you've ever wanted to sub a story to them, this is the line to try. Their guidelines are on their website.
I'm off now, to complete a few chores before my energy wanes. Have a great week all!
I had to send an email for work, so I dragged myself out of bed and used my Blackberry to send the email since turning on the computer would have been too much work. I then glanced at my personal emails. There was an email from my Harlequin Editor. I read it, but being so fuzzy headed, I went back to bed. Hours later, I woke wondering if I'd dreamt the email. I got up and turned on the computer, after 100+ emails downloaded, I scanned them, and... It hadn't been a dream! There was an offer for a three book contract for their Undone Line. I read it, twice at least, and then, went back to bed. Today, however, I'm alive enough to appreciate it.
I have people ask all the time, what is an Undone? They are historical short stories that are highly sensual. At fifteen thousand words or less, they are available only in e-book, and depict a highly charged, emotional snapshot of two characters at a turning point in their lives. Being so short, there isn't much room for back stories and the characters have to hit the page fully developed and running (so to speak). For me, this makes an Undone more difficult to write than a full length story, but the editing is much easier because of the length, which is a nice payoff.
Harlequin is very open to new writers in this genre, so if you've ever wanted to sub a story to them, this is the line to try. Their guidelines are on their website.
I'm off now, to complete a few chores before my energy wanes. Have a great week all!
January 20, 2011
Coldest Night of the Year
The local news station posted on facebook that tonight will be the coldest night of the year. It's already -12, and still falling. I'm thankful DH made room in the garage for my car since I have to have my mom at the hospital by 8:00 AM.
We watched all three granddogs last weekend. When the neighbor dogs trekked through the woods to say hi, they were ecstatic to see the company. All five dogs, three labs, one collie, and one pug, had a hayday playing in the snow, and went through a full bag of t-bone treats.
I attended "If You Give a Moose a Muffin" musical today with my granddaughter's preschool class. Her first bus ride! It was a wonderful event and the kids were great. Then I went to a purse party this evening. Tomorrow, after getting my mother settled home with my brother and sister-in-law, Jess and I will attend fundraiser we've planned for a friend.
Nope, cold weather doesn't slow down Minnesotans.
On the writing side: If you haven't had a chance to vote over at Siren, the voting is open until Feb. 1st. I finished the edits for an Undone and sent it back to my editor, and have completed another couple chapters on my WIP. The interview with the gold miner from Nevada was so educational!
A final tidbit before I close, if you want a delicious nightcap, try a cup of hot chocolate with a splash of raspberry Schnapps—it's like drinking a raspberry truffle!
Warm or cold, have a wonderful week!
We watched all three granddogs last weekend. When the neighbor dogs trekked through the woods to say hi, they were ecstatic to see the company. All five dogs, three labs, one collie, and one pug, had a hayday playing in the snow, and went through a full bag of t-bone treats.
I attended "If You Give a Moose a Muffin" musical today with my granddaughter's preschool class. Her first bus ride! It was a wonderful event and the kids were great. Then I went to a purse party this evening. Tomorrow, after getting my mother settled home with my brother and sister-in-law, Jess and I will attend fundraiser we've planned for a friend.
Nope, cold weather doesn't slow down Minnesotans.
On the writing side: If you haven't had a chance to vote over at Siren, the voting is open until Feb. 1st. I finished the edits for an Undone and sent it back to my editor, and have completed another couple chapters on my WIP. The interview with the gold miner from Nevada was so educational!
A final tidbit before I close, if you want a delicious nightcap, try a cup of hot chocolate with a splash of raspberry Schnapps—it's like drinking a raspberry truffle!
Warm or cold, have a wonderful week!
January 11, 2011
Best books of 2010
I received notice that Wish Craft has been nominated for Siren's Best Book of 2010 awards in the western category. Voting runs from Jan 10th to Feb. 1st. Every reader/voter has a chance to win one of three prize packs consisting of e-books. You can only vote once per category, but can vote for in all eight categories, and each vote gives you another entry into the contest. Here's the link and if you have a chance, I'd appreciate your vote.
Blurb: After intensive studying of Quantum jumping, Jayden White embarks on a journey one hundred and twenty years in the past for two reasons—to aid her sister's financial crisis and to meet the man she's come to know through an old family diary.
The night Levi Grimshaw asks his long time sweetheart to marry him he arrives home to discover a strange young woman sleeping in front of his fireplace—trouble is she's not a stranger to his heart.
Our local high school holds a Poetry Out Loud contest every year, in which students choose a poem to recite for an audience. I've had the pleasure of being a judge since they first implemented this program, and I must say, it's not only fun, the kids do an awesome job! The contest was held today and I listened to 78 recitals. It was phenomenal!
For the past few weeks I've been researching gold mining in the 1800's for my latest WIP. I found lots of information, but not exactly what I was interested in. Then I came across a modern day prospector and emailed him to see if I could ask a few questions. He not only answered my questions, but sent links and videos and we have set up a phone interview that I'm really looking forward to. This story is really flowing, and I'm enjoying writing it immensely.
The neighbor dog is knocking at the door for her evening treat, so I'll sign off. Enjoy the day, make it one to remember!
January 6, 2011
Welcome to 2011
I hope you're all experiencing a wonderful 2011 and that it will just keep getting better and better every day!
We had a wonderful New Year's Eve and Day! The kids were over and we had family from out of state visiting. We had a bonfire and lit off some fireworks, and ate, and visited, etc. etc.
My goal this weekend is to get the rest of the decorations put away. The tree is down, but with all the company, I didn't pull out the tubs to take down everything else. The weather has dropped below zero, as it normally does this time of year, so having inside chores for the weekend is just fine with me.
I'm still loving my Kindle, but I'm also loving the new story I started. Set in Colorado in the 1880's, I'm enjoying the research as much as the writing, and creating a list of places I must visit on our next trip out there.
I'm off to get supper done so I can get some writing in this evening, tomorrow will come quickly and promises to be a busy day. Best wishes to you all on the wonderful new year we are embarking upon.
We had a wonderful New Year's Eve and Day! The kids were over and we had family from out of state visiting. We had a bonfire and lit off some fireworks, and ate, and visited, etc. etc.
My goal this weekend is to get the rest of the decorations put away. The tree is down, but with all the company, I didn't pull out the tubs to take down everything else. The weather has dropped below zero, as it normally does this time of year, so having inside chores for the weekend is just fine with me.
I'm still loving my Kindle, but I'm also loving the new story I started. Set in Colorado in the 1880's, I'm enjoying the research as much as the writing, and creating a list of places I must visit on our next trip out there.
I'm off to get supper done so I can get some writing in this evening, tomorrow will come quickly and promises to be a busy day. Best wishes to you all on the wonderful new year we are embarking upon.
