Cal Orey's Blog, page 25

Wayward Cats: How Do They Find Their Way Home?

   By Cal Orey

HOMEWARD BOUND

(Excerpt from Soulmates with Paws)

One spring day in a small town in Illinois, a black cat named Zephyr disappeared. “I was heartbroken, as was the rest of my family. He was truly my friend at that time,” recalls Cassandra Fink. Zephyr’s owners spend hours combining their one-and-a-half-acre yard and apple orchard looking for their beloved pet and fearing the worst. “We realized he must have run away.”

            Then one night the cat’s owners heard a soft meow outside and found Zephyr standing at the door looking well-muscled but extremely skinny. “The semi-trucks for the trucking company next door traveled back and forth to the city of Kankakee. We realized then that he had hopped aboard a flatbed semi and ended up there,” explains Fink. It had taken the cat two weeks to trek the 30 miles home!

            Zephyr is like countless cats worldwide who find their way home—even when home is hundreds of miles away. Many cat owners have tales of incredible journeys, and most have no idea how their cats do it. A number of these cases come to the public’s attention when they are reported in newspapers, but many more go unreported and unstudied. Those that are studied teach us a lot about our feline companions but leave us with as many questions as answers.

AN AMAZING HOMING INSTINCT

            Researchers really don’t know how these extraordinary cats find their way home. But they do have some idea about how some other legendary travelers navigate. Birds and bees seem to navigate by the sun, stars or moon. As for salmon, which swim all the way from the open ocean back to the very stream where they spawned, researchers think they smell their home waters. Other animals can orient themselves with the help of magnetized cells in the brain, which act like tiny compasses, and help them decide which way is north. Marine mammals may even use the sounds that rumble through the seas to get their bearings. “Cats may have similar abilities,” says renowned author and animal expert Michael Fox, Ph.D.

In a classic study done more 75 years ago, zoologist F.H. Herrick, of Cleveland, Ohio, took his own cat in a bag from his home to his office five miles away, traveling by streetcar. When he let the cat out of the bag, the cat fled. However, the cat returned home the same night, even though he had been left in an area he was unfamiliar with. Puzzled by this astonishing ability, Herrick put the cat in a closed container, took him various distances from his house—from one to three miles—and released him. The result:  The cat came home in a variety of situations and from any point on the compass. How exactly do cats do that?

THE RADAR THAT GETS CATS HOME

            Animal experts also say the sense cats use most often and that gives them the most information is scent. By sniffing bushes and buildings along their route, cats can use the information they glean to help find their way home.

            “Cats have a very sensitive nose that equal dogs, and their eyesight is certainly better,” says Ted Cohn, DVM, at University Hills Hospital in Denver CO. “Certainly for short distances visual clues are very important.”

            Cats also use physical cues from nature, such as the angle of the sun to find their way. “They may be able to use the sun as a compass, as well as sensing a time difference between their own internal circadian clock and the local time. But the father away they are from home base, the greater will be the discrepancy,” says Fox. Therefore, visual aids and memory don’t completely explain how lost cats find their way over long distances.

            That’s why many researchers believe cats are sensitive to the earth’s magnetic fields. This sensitivity may enable them to find their way back home—even from hundreds of miles away. “A magnetic field can be described as a set of imaginary lines that indicates the direction a compass needle would point to at a particular spot,” explains Psychobiologist David Jay Brown of Ben Lomond, CA.

            It’s also believed that cats possess a homing mechanism that is triggered by brain cells containing magnetized iron particles. As they do with other mammals, these cells act like built in compasses. So, some cats, like a wayward senior striped tabby named Alfie, may have been guided by the influence of earth’s magnetic fields.

            Early one summer, Alfie’s owner, Elaine Hahn, moved to a new home in Palo Alto, CA, about five miles away from her old home. For the first few weeks after the move, Hahn received regular phone calls from her old neighbor, who told her, “Alfie is here. Do you want to come and pick him up?” For two weeks, Hahn got into her car and drove five miles to go pick up Alfie. He had not only hiked five miles each time to get back to his old house, he had crossed six lanes of traffic to do so!

            Alluring as it is though, the magnetic field theory doesn’t entirely explain the homing instinct, according to Brown. “If you have a compass and you’re not in the middle of nowhere, you can’t figure out the direction of your destination unless you knew your position in a certain geographical area. So, it’s really a big mystery.”

What Kitty Knows--Your Cat May Sense Danger, and You Should Know About It

  

(Excerpt from Soulmates with Paws)

  By Cal Orey

 At noon on a stormy spring day in Austin, Texas, several household cats started acting strangely. “I was in bed watching the weather channel on TV,” recalls cat owner Janet Shon. “My cats wanted to hide underneath the covers.” The heavy rains and howling winds continued, causing panic in her house full of pets. Eventually, she put them into carriers to calm them, and took cover under the stairwell. “Usually, my cats don’t mind being in the crates during bad weather,” she says, “but this time, they were chatting nonstop and wanted to be next to me.”

            Several hours later, on May 27, 1997, an extremely rare and dangerous tornado (classified as an F-5), with winds measuring over 260 mph, touched down 40 miles to the North of Shon in Jarrell, Texas. Twenty-seven people died in Jarrell. Multiple tornadoes also ripped through the Austin area, killing two people. “It took the roof off the Albertsons’ store,” says Shon with awe. She and her cats survived without a scratch.

            What made Shon’s cats react in such a way? Some say it’s ESP (extra sensory perception), or a sixth sense. Others claim cats aren’t gifted, just blessed with well-developed or heightened senses—scent, sound, and sight, that are far superior to our own.

 However, you see it, cats have earned their supernatural reputation throughout history. In ancient Egypt, felines were worshipped as gods, and killing a cat was a crime punishable by death. Even modern society gives credence to the idea that cats “know” things. During World War 11, “British families found that their cats were the best warning system for impending danger,” notes Dale Koppel, author of Amazing but True Cat Facts. “They showed unmistakable signs that something was about to happen even before the air sirens were sounded. Their hair would stand on end, or they’d spit or wail. Some would head straight for the nearest shelter.”

            Many people who live through terrible disasters—hurricanes, tornadoes, fires, or earthquakes (reports of animals sensing the imminent deadly  Loma Prieta 1989 quake# to Japan 2011 quake# rolled in)—believe their cats knew something before these disasters struck. But whether or not cats really predict danger is still an open debate. So, what will you do the next time Felix starts acting strange? Will you roll your eyes, or head for high ground? Read on and decide for yourself.

THE BLACKOUT EFFECT Authors Forecasted a Near Galveston, TX Hurricane in NEW BOOK

By Cal Orey

 A Hurricane Warning means hurricane-force winds are expected somewhere within this area within the next 36 hours

  * LOCATIONS AFFECTED - Galveston - Jamaica Beach - West End Galveston Island* WIND - LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Equivalent Tropical Storm force wind - Peak Wind Forecast: 45-55 mph with gusts to 75 mph - Window for Tropical Storm force winds: until late Monday afternoon- THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Potential for wind 58 to 73 mph - The wind threat has remained nearly steady from the previous assessment. - PLAN: Plan for dangerous wind of equivalent strong tropical storm force. - PREPARE: Last minute efforts to protect life and property should now be complete. The area remains subject to significant wind damage. - ACT: Now is the time to shelter from dangerous wind.- POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Unfolding - Potential impacts from the main wind event are unfolding.* STORM SURGE - LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Life-threatening storm surge possible - Peak Storm Surge Inundation: The potential for 4-6 feet above ground somewhere within surge prone areas - Window of concern: Begins early Monday morning- THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Potential for storm surge flooding greater than 3 feet above ground - The storm surge threat has remained nearly steady from the previous assessment. - PLAN: Plan for life-threatening storm surge flooding of greater than 3 feet above ground. - PREPARE: Evacuation efforts and flood preparations should soon be brought to completion before conditions become unsafe. - ACT: Leave immediately if evacuation orders are given for your area to avoid being cut off from emergency services or needlessly risk lives.- POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Significant - Areas of inundation with storm surge flooding accentuated by waves. Damage to several buildings, mainly near the coast. - Sections of near-shore escape routes and secondary roads become weakened or washed out, especially in usually vulnerable low spots. - Major beach erosion with heavy surf breaching dunes. Strong and numerous rip currents. - Moderate damage to marinas, docks, boardwalks, and piers. Several small craft broken away from moorings, especially in unprotected anchorages.* FLOODING RAIN - LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Flood Watch is in effect - Peak Rainfall Amounts: Additional 6-10 inches, with locally higher amounts- THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Potential for major flooding rain - The flooding rain threat has remained nearly steady from the previous assessment. - PLAN: Emergency plans should include the potential for major flooding from heavy rain. Evacuations and rescues are likely. - PREPARE: Strongly consider protective actions, especially if you are in an area vulnerable to flooding. - ACT: Heed any flood watches and warnings. Failure to take action will likely result in serious injury or loss of life.- POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Extensive - Major rainfall flooding may prompt many evacuations and rescues. - Rivers and tributaries may rapidly overflow their banks in multiple places. Small streams, creeks, canals, and ditches may become dangerous rivers. Flood control systems and barriers may become stressed. - Flood waters can enter many structures within multiple communities, some structures becoming uninhabitable or washed away. Many places where flood waters may cover escape routes. Streets and parking lots become rivers of moving water with underpasses submerged. Driving conditions become dangerous. Many road and bridge closures with some weakened or washed out.* TORNADO - LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: - Situation is favorable for tornadoes- THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Potential for several tornadoes - The tornado threat has remained nearly steady from the previous assessment. - PLAN: Emergency plans should continue to include the potential for several tornadoes. - PREPARE: Stay within your shelter keeping informed of the latest tornado situation. - ACT: Move quickly to the safest place within your shelter if a tornado warning is issued.- POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Significant - The occurrence of scattered tornadoes can hinder the execution of emergency plans during tropical events. - Several places may experience tornado damage with a few spots of considerable damage, power loss, and communications failures. - Locations could realize roofs torn off frame houses, mobile homes demolished, boxcars overturned, large trees snapped or uprooted, vehicles tumbled, and small boats tossed about. Dangerous projectiles can add to the toll.* FOR MORE INFORMATION: - Hurricane Preparedness: Federal Emergency Management Agency - http://ready.gov/hurricanes - Local weather conditions and forecasts: NWS Houston/Galveston, TX - http://www.weather.gov/hgx/

Top Mediterranean Diet -- Gift Book, The Healing Powers of Superfoods

   Shared by Cal Orey

 20 Most Surprising

Superfoods for Amazing Health!

Eggs, fish oil, butter, coconut oil . . . one minute they’re good for you and the next they’re not. Food fads make it tough to know what’s truly healthy. Eat it, don’t eat it. It helps, no wait, it doesn’t help.

Medical doctors and researchers are constantly making new discoveries about food that change conventional thinking.

With so much conflicting science, how do you know which foods really have incredible healing powers?

End the confusion once and for all
with  The Healing Powers of Superfoods .

Written by Cal Orey, author of the bestselling Healing Powers of Honey, this blockbuster new book is based on the latest scientific studies showing dozens of surprising superfoods and juices you never knew could help you get healthy and stay healthy — even cheese, chocolate, and ice cream!

The Healing Powers of Superfoods reveals the NEW top 20 superfoods which are loaded with antioxidants, polyphenols, carotenoids, flavonoids, and minerals and vitamins with powerful immune-boosting and disease-preventing properties.

If you want to outsmart heart disease, cognitive
decline, or even lung troubles without giving up
your favorite foods . . . this is the book for you.

Contrary to popular belief, superfoods aren’t just for health nuts. They’re for everyone who wants to enjoy a healthier heart, a stronger brain, clear lungs and sinuses, lower cholesterol, and reduced pain — as well as give the boot to colds and flu, soothe dry skin, feel more energized, and live longer.

One of the most important things you can do with the NEW Top 20 superfoods: Boost your immunity. A balanced immune system is essential to living a healthy life.

Inside this 316-page bible of superfoods you’ll discover the top 20 nutrient-dense foods that are delicious to eat and easy to find at your favorite supermarket. These new superfoods are many of the classic foods you love and they deliver big health benefits that can help you:

Boost your immune systemSupport a healthy heartBuild strong bonesStrengthen your cognitive healthMaintain healthy blood sugarPower up your energyFight fatLower blood pressureLower the risk of heart diseaseSlow the aging processPromote healthy visionEase anxiety and stress

If foods like acai, maca, or garlic come to mind when you hear the word “superfood,” you’re in for a surprise! While these superfoods are nutritionally dense and good for your health . . .

The Secret to a Long, Healthy Life
Is Sitting on Your Grocery Shelf

There are loads of other, lesser-known taste-tempting, belly-filling foods with the power to restore health, wellness, and energy to the body. There are even foods that have been on your plate all along — you just didn’t know they were nutrient-dense.

Take gelato and shellfish — once considered too fatty or too high in cholesterol and sodium, they’ve been determined to be good for you and they taste great. They’re today’s “new” superfoods! Shrimp alone have 17 grams of protein and almost one-third the recommended daily allowance of vitamin D — an important vitamin millions of people are lacking. You need all the “D” you can get for strong bones and teeth.

You know those potatoes you serve up as a side with a juicy steak or your favorite chicken dish? Surprise — they’re immunity-boosting powerhouses!

Not just fat-free and a great source of potassium for your heart health, these super spuds are also packed with vitamin A, a powerful immune booster. Medical researchers also believe this potato can boost white blood cell activity, which is key to warding off certain cancers.

All of the details you need about super taters — including some great ways to use them in recipes — are on page 104 of your FREE BOOK.

Guess what? A food doesn’t have to be
perfectly “clean” to be a superfood.

Think about how you enjoy that big bowl of decadent gelato. So creamy and smooth, yet this sweet treat has less fat and more natural ingredients than ice cream.

Add some of this yummy chocolate or any of the great mix-in suggestions on page 63 and it’s like you went to Dairy Queen for a Blizzard swirled with your favorite mix-ins — only better because it’s healthier!

Best of all when you start adding other nutrient-dense foods to superfoods, you instantly increase the health benefits. The Healing Powers of Superfoods gives you all kinds of ideas for blending and stacking superfoods for the healthiest options.

Now don’t give ice cream the boot, because
America’s favorite frozen delight not only builds
strong bones — it supercharges your brain.

Ice cream contains calcium for bone-building and protein for strong muscles and teeth. Know what else? Vanilla ice cream is good for the brain! When you get your FREE COPY of The Healing Powers of Superfoods, turn to page 63 to see the secret super mineral in vanilla ice cream that enhances brain function. Belgian researchers using MRI testing found ice cream even diminishes the brain’s response to sadness.

Do you like apples or peanut butter? They’re super delicious superfoods, too. Apples aren’t just great for weight loss, they lower your bad cholesterol (LDL), protecting against heart attack and stroke.

See page 28 of your FREE BOOK to see which apples pack the most powerful punch. Be sure to try the Super Heart Healthy Cinna-Apple Smoothie on page 29.

Do these look like SUPERFOODS to you?
Take a closer look.

When University of Scranton researcher Joe Vinson, Ph.D., was asked what foods he’d pick if he were stranded on a desert island for two weeks, he chose nuts, peanut butter, orange juice, and wine. Since wine is rich in resveratrol, it could help prevent blood clots from years of eating French fries and bacon.

Rather skip the wine? There’s a great juice alternative on page 141. This superjuice not only helps lower cholesterol but may reduce the risk of cancer, too. It’s all in The Healing Powers of Superfoods.

Eggs can keep you out of the cardiologist’s office, too.

Two studies of 40,000 men and women published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) showed eating eggs in moderation may be good for your heart. Scientists found absolutely NO LINK to heart disease in healthy test subjects who ate an egg every day. But . . .

You must know which part of the egg to eat for the biggest health benefit — and it’s not what you think or what you’ve been told. An “eggstrordinary” secret on page 55 will show you how to get the biggest bang for your heart health from eggs.

Surprising superfood of the year:
Lobster Mac and Cheese for weight loss!

You’re going to think, “This is too decadent to be good for me, right?” Nope! This amazing recipe uses a secret type of pasta studies show fills you up and slims you down. Parmesan swirled with a bit of butter, pasta, tomatoes, creamy half-and-half, fresh basil. Mmm, mouthwatering! Get the recipe on page 286 of your FREE BOOK! Hurry, get your FREE COPY while supplies last.

These superfoods could help halt everything
from heart disease, cancer, and
flu to obesity, anxiety, and depression. Power up your immune system with this surprising breakfast food!

Turn to page 71 of your FREE BOOK to find out!

 Eat pizza, beat heart disease.

See how on page 91.

 Lower bad cholesterol with super chicken!

Turkey works, too. Try the moist and meaty Super Vitalizing Turkey Salad on page 100.

 Breathe easier — eat tomatoes.

Got asthma? Tomatoes open up airways and detox the body. Page 213

 Crunchy French Toast and Berries

Healthy never looked or tasted so good! Recipe on page 151 of your FREE BOOK.

During flu season or a major health crisis, it’s more critical than ever you feed your body superfoods to shield against invaders. The more superfoods you pile on your plate over the course of a day, the better.

And learning about which superfoods to eat doesn’t have to be difficult. Everything you need to know is inside The Healing Powers of Superfoods. Through this special offer, you can get a copy of this blockbuster book absolutely FREE! Click here to claim your FREE BOOK.

Here’s a sneak peek at what’s waiting for you inside of The Healing Powers of Superfoods:

Lower your risk of cancer and heart disease with pizza! Italian researchers found the secret in the sauce. Page 92See cholesterol levels you can love at your next checkup. Eat more of this family favorite which also helps you stay trim and feel calm. Page 97Lower your blood pressure, stave off colds and flu, AND lose weight with . . . potatoes? That’s right! Discover which 2 “super spuds” are best on page 104.Reduce the risk of heart disease and power up your brain health with sweet, creamy, and crunchy Peanut Butter Fudge. Recipes on page 248Flatten your belly and banish bloat fast with watermelon — a natural diuretic! Try the quick Melon Salad on page 135.Tired, fatigued, and need energy? Eat this once-forbidden sweet treat turned superfood — it gives you the added benefit of boosting brain power. Page 63Need a sweetener? Forget honey or brown sugar — reach for antioxidant-rich maple syrup! Studies show maple can enhance the immune system for fewer colds and flu. WAIT! You must use THIS maple syrup to reap the health benefits. Page 73Avoid dental bills — keep your teeth and gums healthy with this vitamin C-packed fruit. Hint: it’s NOT oranges! Page 159Calm anxiety and frayed nerves with this Thanksgiving favorite. It helps your body make mood-boosting serotonin. Page 97Bounce back from jet lag! Drink a glass of water infused with this citrus and eat a handful of this superfood. You get a big energy boost from the carbs combined with magnesium and selenium. Page 198.

The Healing Powers of Superfoods is packed cover-to-cover with hundreds of ways to incorporate superfoods into your life to help you address whatever health issues you face: depression, dizziness, insomnia, kidney stones, blisters, UTIs, asthma, anemia, allergies, pain, and many others.

You get 50+ delicious, nutritious recipes for everything from Pesto Pizza, Dark Chocolate Gelato, and Cheesy Quiche to ricotta-rich Cannelloni steeped in garlic and herbs and Super Immunity Enhancing Chilled Sweet Potato Soup with Maple-Smoked Chili Sauce on page 105.

There are even thirst-quenching recipes for drinks and smoothies. Be sure to try the new twist on green drinks which tastes great! You can’t go wrong with sweet Honeycrisp apples blended with cinnamon, honey, and a touch of kale. Page 188.

PLUS, this treasure trove of healing
superfoods book also contains:Lower your blood pressure — say CHEESE, please!

All this time you thought cheese was a no-no. Cheese is loaded with heart healthy calcium to help lower your blood pressure — and your risk of heart disease and stroke. Page 41

Wait until you try the gooey Cheese and Cranberry Dip on page 35.

A sensational blend of melted Brie, wine, garlic, and cranberries tempts your taste buds.

50 home remedies you can zip together in your kitchen for everything from building strong immunity to dealing with gingivitis, heartburn, depression, constipation, kidney stones, infection, and other health concerns.Top 10 “skinny superfoods” scientifically shown to fill you up, not out!5 simple rules for losing weight like a champ.Perfectly pampering beautifying recipes for shiny, healthy hair, glowing skin, soft elbows and feet, and more. Super Beautifying Cantaloupe Smoothie, anyone? See page 224Household helpers for cleaning stubborn rust, removing gum from carpets, and making your house smell fresh and clean.

Whether you want to up your health game, have committed to start eating healthier, already eat healthy and are seeking out the latest and greatest superfoods, or you want to go from bland and boring to tasty and delicious with all NEW recipes . . . The Healing Powers of Superfoods is for you!

This groundbreaking new book is also perfect for anyone who wants to benefit from healthier options in their life, whether cooking, cleaning, dieting, or beautifying. There’s something for everyone!

Claim your FREE COPY today. All we ask is that you pick up the small shipping and handling fee of $4.95. Wait, there are more things you’re going to love . . .

NEW BOOK: ROMANCE ADVENTURE RESCUE ME! SERIES

 

New Book: The Whiteout Effect: Rescue Me! - By: Parker Kelly and Cal OreyIGNITE NEW ROMANCE AND ACTION ADVENTURE SERIES "With the heat of the passion between the two protagonists, you would think it would melt the snow! Wonderfully written." ~ Pacific Book Review"Most compelling snow story since The Shining!" Stephen Spignesi, New York Times best-selling author of Stephen King, American MasterBy: Pacific Book Review  
LOS ANGELES - June 18, 2024 -  PRLog  -- The Whiteout Effect: Rescue Me! by the authors Parker Kelly and Cal Orey is an adventure love story, filled with life, death, and survival in blizzard conditions, first responders selflessly helping accident victims, steadfastness in morality of what's right and wrong in relationships, love of family, and last-but-not-least, the unconditional love and obedience of our canine companions.

A genre crossing between a romance novel and an adventure story, readers will be drawn into this Book One of RESCUE ME! series embarking with a perfect blend of throttled passion between the Alex Callahan and Mike Armstrong juxtaposed against nature's fury of a blizzard, plus on top of this many of the hazardous work conditions of being paramedics.  The novel threads page-turning action and adventure along with physical attraction of a new relationship while detailing job nuances of first responders who risk a Sierra Nevada snowmobiling trip in the backcountry during an unpredictable late winter storm.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS:

PARKER KELLY had previous extensive training with EMS (Emergency Medical Services) classes while attending the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. Kelly also attended St. Mary's University, where she majored in English (Creative Writing). She was employed more than two decades with a major airline, enjoying her fast-paced career training and organizing group travel. As a fearless adventure seeker, her hobbies include ocean kayaking, mountain hiking, and snow skiing, and she drives a Jeep Honcho. The author is a wife, mom, grandmother, and dog parent, including two fun-loving shepherds. She lives in Texas, so twisters, storms, earthquakes, and Gulf Coast hurricanes are part of her life in the South. www.parker-kelly.com 

CAL OREY, M.A., is a bestselling author/novelist specializing in topics such as adventure, history, romance, and science. She holds two degrees in English (Creative Writing) from San Francisco State University. Her books include the Healing Powers series, and the Soulmates with Paws trilogy (includes real-life tales that'll make you cry and your heart pound). She lives in South Lake Tahoe, California, with an Australian shepherd and a dog-loving Siamese cat. Nature-loving Orey has weathered snowstorm road closures, whiteouts, and spinouts, and survived the 2024 rare Sierra blizzard. Her website is www.calorey.com

Title:  The Whiteout Effect: Rescue Me!

Subtitle:  Book One

Authors:  Parker Kelly and Cal Orey

Publisher:  AuthorHouse

ISBN:  979-8-8230-2643-7

Pages:  117

Genre:  Fiction / Romance / Adventure

Contact
Pacific Book Review
Nicole Sorkin
***@gmail.comEnd   Google NewsSource:Pacific Book Review » FollowEmail:***@gmail.comTags:RomanceIndustry:BooksLocation:Los Angeles - California - United States

The Whiteout Effect -- NOTABLE BOOK -- Pacific Book Review

 By Cal Orey

The Whiteout Effect: Rescue Me!

Title: The Whiteout Effect: Rescue Me!
Subtitle: Book One
Authors: Parker Kelly and Cal Orey
Publisher: AuthorHouse
ISBN: 979-8-8230-2643-7
Pages: 117
Genre: Fiction / Romance / Adventure / Natural Disasters
Reviewed by: Beth Adams

Read Book Review

If you are looking for your next adventure love story to read while in an Adirondack chair by the crushed granite sand of Lake Tahoe, or snuggled up by a crackling fireplace with a hotty-toddy and a canine companion, or perhaps looking for a page-turner to break up the waiting boredom on a travel vacation, look no further.  The Whiteout Effect: Rescue Me! by the authors Parker Kelly and Cal Orey is a Tahoe tale (based on true events) filled with life, death and survival in blizzard conditions, first-responders selflessly helping accident victims, steadfastness in morality of what’s right and wrong in relationships, love of family, and last-but-not-least, the unconditional love and obedience of our canine companions.

The story begins when Alex breaks up with her husband in Texas after discovering he cheated on her. She packs up, has her dog Skyler hop in the Jeep, and they move back home to be with her parents who live on the South Shore of Lake Tahoe.  Feeling a bit deflated and mostly angry at herself for trusting this loser, like a dog humbly having its tail between its legs, she is careful not to wear her heart on her sleeve nor become a rebound victim when she meets Mike, a fellow first responder at her new job in Tahoe. The book is ideally written through the narrative of Alex’s point of view, adding the subtle literary technique of using italics to convey her thoughts, bringing readers deep into Alex’s mind. The events bring many details of the job of being paramedics and first responders as a background to readers, but mostly are overshadowed by the impending blizzard with whiteout conditions blowing into the region.  Survival becomes the climax of the story – and nope, no spoilers here to tell, you’ll want to read for yourself the character-arc.  With the heat of the passion between the two protagonists you would think would melt the snow!  Wonderfully written.

Reading the short bios of Parker Kelly and Cal Orey at the end of the book brings into focus the mechanizations of how this story was created.  Parker Kelly dipped into her paramedic experience for details and nuances bringing story credibility; and Cal Orey lives up in Lake Tahoe, knows the area, and referenced many local sentiments, such as the news media hype generally embellishing snowstorms to draw crowds and tourists – and yes, both are dog lovers.  I akin their collaboration to that of, say, Simon and Garfunkel, as together their synergistically creative style enhances each other – and the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.

 The Whiteout Effect: Rescue Me! has Alex rescued physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually by a “Camelot” hero.  Upon opening the first page to see what the book was about, I truly didn’t stop reading it until the end – a perfect single-sitting paging experience.  It actually was embedded in a dream I had last night, after finishing the book and before penning this review.  For any book to have such an impact, I say, “Bravo!” As this is Book One – bring on the next episode!

BUY ON AMAZONFiction, Latest Reviews, Romance

INTERVIEW WITH NATURAL DISASTERS AUTHOR CAL OREY

 INTERVIEW WITH NATURAL DISASTERS AUTHOR-INTUITIVE CAL OREY

"Most compelling snow story since The Shining." -- Stephen Spignesi, New York Times best-selling author of Stephen King, American Master

By Cal Orey

The Whiteout Effect: Rescue Me! revolves around a chain ofevents that evolve about a rare Sierra Nevada late-winter blizzard based at thepopular iconic town of South Lake Tahoe, California, as well as the personalrelationships of a team of first responders rescue efforts. The captivatingstory explores bravery, dedication, and sacrifice as the characters risk theirlives during an unpredictable dangerous epic storm.

Q: What drew you to write this short novel?

Iwas contacted by a new and talented author who wanted me to help her finish awork in progress. During this time it was when South Lake Tahoe was hit by arare late winter storm. So, it seemed meant to be to have the setting here—myhome. The storyline is about first responders who are challenged by blizzardrescues. We decided to add a bit of romance between a firefighter and aparamedic. And, of course, as dog lovers, we added canine (or two).

Q: What reactions have you received so far from readers?
At first, the short novel ranked 1 in the Top 100 categories Natural Disasters,and it’s held its place for weeks like a resilient first responder rescuingresidents and tourists. One well-known author gave the novel this blurb: “Mostcompelling snow story since The Shining! Gripping and dramatic!” Another toppsychologist wrote: “First responders struggling against the force of naturemakes a truly exciting adventure—and there is also a bit of romance and even adog.”

Q: Among the thousands of published magazine articles, anddozens of books, most notably are your stories about health, relationships,pets, and science. Was this novel difficult to write since it’s a bit out ofyour comfort zone as an author?

Thestory wrote itself. Since The Whiteout Effect is based in the Sierra Nevada, Iwas familiar with nature’s wrath. As a native California I’ve experienced majorearthquakes, snowstorms, blackouts, road closures, spinouts, and whiteouts.Also, the co-author had previous training with Emergency Medical Services; as anature-loving, adventurous author I’ve been writing about natural disasterssince I was a kid. I can tell you that in Book 2, The Blackout Effect, therewill be more sci-fi-Ish stories based in the South when the power goes out. It’sfunny, but I recall back in my twenties I hitchhiked with a dog through theGulf Coast states…so basing the sequel on the beach—with its challenges—feltright.

Q: What are your favorite parts of The Whiteout Effect?
I like the heroine Alex Callahan, a scorned, independent paramedic), and MikeArmstrong, a strong and sensitive firefighter who are trying to save livesduring a monster blizzard. Each rescue is intense—gets th heart pounding. Alongsidetheir work mission, there is also a budding relationship of Alex and Mike (whoescape work stressors to go on a short adventure-seeking snowmobile trip in thebackcountry), playing down the hype of the storm, adding a layer of emotionaldepth to the story.

Q: The scenes about the sensitive nature between dogs and theirowners are amazing. Can you kindly elaborate on this?
I believe our pets—horses and dogs—can sense danger, whether it be challengesin a blizzard or if their humans are in trouble. So, the dog and horse feats inWhiteout ring true.

Q: What new topics are on your desk for future books?
The Whiteout Effect is Book 1 the Rescue Me! trilogy. Next up is The BlackoutEffect. And Book 3 is The Orange Effect. Teaser: What if the power grid goesdown? Well, we take you to paradise but it’s spooky stuff! For moreinformation: www.calorey.com. TheWhiteout Effect is available in two formats at online bookstores. The BlackoutEffect will be released in July (just in time for our Tahoe summerthunderstorms and before hurricane peak season in the Gulf Coast and AtlanticSeaboard).

ABOUTTHE AUTHORS

ParkerKelly is a wife, mom, grandmother, and dog parent, including two fun-lovingshepherds. She lives in Texas, so twisters, storms, earthquakes, and Gulf Coasthurricanes are part of her life in the South.

CalOrey, M.A., is a bestselling author-novelist specializing in adventure,history, romance, and science. Orey lives in South Lake Tahoe, California, withan Australian Shepherd and a dog-friendly orange cat.

June Is National Iced Tea Month (and more!)

 

Beau-tea-ful Possibilities 0BY THE DAILY TEA  Author Cal Orey shares her thoughts on tea beyond the cup in the following Q&A. She gave us a couple home tea remedies and an exclusive sneak peek from her book, The Healing Powers of Tea, featuring a white and green tea facial.

 

Talk a little bit about your love of tea. When were you/who introduced you to tea?

The history of tea and me go way, way back to when I was a kid. Actually, a tea party was one of the first times I discovered the world of tea. My mother, a wonderful cook and baker, helped me set the table. And my imagination paved the rest of the way.

It’s clear you are inspired by the healing properties of natural remedies. What inspired you to write a book about the healing powers of tea?

I’ve been writing the Healing Powers series for almost two decades. However, it was the book on tea that I really wanted to write–and finally I landed the project. Because tea has played a big role in my life it was the inspiration to weave personal stories as well as its health benefits for the mind, body, and spirit.

Has tea healed you in some way? If so, how?

Tea has healed me countless times in countless ways. Most importantly, it is my choice of beverage, one with an infinite amount of healing perks. I believe because I have turned to tea (instead of alcohol, soda, or energy drinks) for decades, it has kept me healthy and happy inside and outside, which is a blessing for a health-conscious baby boomer who loves to feel and look younger.

What kinds of tea remedies are included in your book?

I discuss how the universal superfood can tackle digestive problems, depression and anxiety, aches and pains, and add years to your life.  Also, I dish out home cures that give more energy, less stress, treat the common cold, insomnia, and more!

Are there any teas in particular that you focus on in your book?

Instead of focusing mainly on green tea, I turn to classic black and white teas. I show how they are heating up the beverage world with antioxidants and nutrients that may help lower the risk of heart disease, cancer, and much more.

What are your favorite teas and why?

Black tea and chamomile tea are two of my go-to teas, especially when traveling. Classic black energizes me and chamomile calms me. Drinking tea –black, white, and herbal varieties– helps keep me balanced.

What are some remedies that you use personally?

The first is for your eyes. Puffy eyes can occur for a variety of reasons, whether it is lack of sleep or aging. To help decrease swelling, try black, green, white, or chamomile tea. Put wet tea bags into freezer for about 10 minutes or until chilled and place one bag over each shut eye and several minutes. Repeat as desired.

The second remedy can be for your skin or just your feet.  If you enjoy relaxing in the tub, steep a couple of herbal tea bags in warm to hot water. Try a vanilla blend for a more relaxing soak or a citrus blend for an energizing soak.

What’s one thing you hope readers will take away from your book, The Healing Powers of Tea?

It’s an amazing superfood. Some people believe tea is just a beverage that you savor once in a while. For instance, folks drink a glass of iced tea in the summer and a cup of hot tea in the winter. But I share how tea is a versatile functional food to be enjoyed for all seasons and every day in countless ways.

Are you working on another book in the Healing Powers series? Can you share a little about it?

Currently, I’m writing the seventh book–and this one is very big and very challenging. The topic is super superfoods. Yes, it has been done but my angle is very personal and quite unique with a different angle, much like The Healing Powers of Tea.

 

White and Green Tea Exfoliating Facial

1 cup water

1 teaspoon green tea leaves, brewed

1 teaspoon white  tea, brewed

1 tablespoon raw honey

1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

Steep tea in just-boiled water. In a small bowl, mix together honey, vinegar, and lemon juice. Remove tea from stove and mix together all ingredients. Allow mixture to cool off for a couple minutes before applying small amount to your forehead, cheeks, chin, and neck. Leave on for about 5 -10 minutes. Rinse with cool water and pat dry with a clean towel. Follow with a moisturizer. Use this recipe twice a week for a rosy glow. 

June Is National Iced Tea Month

 ICED TEA WITH CITRUS AND MINT

By Cal Orey
This recipe is California-inspired from when I was in my twenties and lived in Fresno, a farming region in the central state where orange groves are plentiful. During the hot summer afternoons I’d drink iced orange pekoe (pronounced PECK-oh)--a grade of orthodox black tea--to get energized so I could enjoy riding a ten speed bicycle accompanied by my soulmate with paws, a young and healthy black Labrador retriever Stone Fox, with dark brown soulful eyes and a smile to melt my heart. He’d run free through orange groves, we’d race until we were whooped. From my backpack, I’d treat me to cold tea in a thermos and let my dog drink water from a fountain to regroup. 2 cups water

5 tea bags, orange pekoe (Harney and  Sons--a blend of Assam and Ceylon)

Granulated white sugar or honey to taste

Lemon or orange slices

Fresh mint

            Bring fresh cold water to a boil and pour 2 cups over tea bags. Cover and brew 3 to 5 minutes. Remove tea bags and add 2 cups cold water. Stir. Pour into chilled, ice-filled tea mugs or glasses. Add sugar or honey to taste. Garnish with lemon slices and mint. Serves 4.

            Going back to basic tea beverages sometimes is like embracing tradition that gets better with time. In the next chapter, “A Historical Testimony,” I’ll show you exactly how tea continues to get praise and why it’s good enough to have a well-stocked pantry for "…the best of times…the worst of times" with respect to the words of author Charles Dickens’ “The Tale of Two Cities” and all authors, including this one, who turn to tea for inspiration and to find their Zen.[Excerpt from THE HEALING POWERS OF TEA © 2017 Cal Orey.  All Rights Reserved.  Reprinted with permission from Kensington Publishing. www.kensingtonbooks.com]

The Healing Powers of Tea (Read another excerpt on tea and beauty plus a Q and A from the author for The Daily Tea.)

Soulmates with Paws: A Collection of Incredible Animal Stories -- A New Action and Adventure Page-Turner

   By Cal Orey

CUDDLE UP TO THE WARMHEARTED 

HUMAN-ANIMAL BOND!

(It's not a Crafts or Pet Care book! Think Action & Adventure, Animals & Essays, Fiction, Travel)

Author of the popular Healing Powers series ... collection of her published stories in national mags from the past!

 This one-of-a-kind book includes recognized pet-lovers, such as Betty White, Doris Day, John Steinbeck, Zane Grey and Charles Schulz to memorable pets and their people. Each story and event show the virtues of soulmates with paws.

 * The global pandemic and lockdowns of 2020 resulted in an upsurge of animal adoptions… people were seeking the emotional support and affection that a companion animal can bring.

* Whether it’s ESP, superior senses, feline intuition, or a change in routine, your pet may sense danger, and give you a warning to keep you out of harm’s way.

* Homeless pets and their people are a timeless phenomenon. How do dogs and cats help humanity facing the worst of times?

 * Beyond 9 lives:  Why canines and felines come back from the brink may be a connection to the strong human-pet bond. 

* Homeward Bound: How do wayward cats and dogs find their way home, anyhow?

 Written from the perspective of a veteran animal writer, flanked by her devoted pet menagerie, gifted storyteller author Cal Orey, shares the best of her nationally published magazine stories. This fascinating, warm, and witty gift book dishes out the power of love and loyalty between companion animals and humanity.

 

"Cal Orey combines well-researched expertise, dynamic humor, and honoring the angelic nature of animals by showing their power to heal hearts and minds with unconditional love."

 — Allen and Linda Anderson, co-founders of Angel Animals Network

 Order Now (softcover/hardcover and ebook last week of December at all online bookstores). Now Available at Barnes and Noble and Amazon bookstores...more to follow!