Mary E. Thompson's Blog, page 7

Vote Now for F-Bomb #2

I loved writing Freedom. It was one of my favorites so far. But I loved it so much, I can’t decide who should get the next story in the series!

That’s where you come in!

I want you to vote on which F-Bomb guy should get his story next. If you haven’t voted already, do it now! You can vote right here and tell me which one of these amazing guys you want to learn more about. It’s all up to you!

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Read Freedom now!

He was born to be a soldier. It was the only thing he ever thought about being. Until he met her. Then the only thing he dreamed of being was hers. 

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Freedom is within reach!

Excerpt from Freedom

“She’s pretty. Hell of a cook, too,” Dunn said as he walked into the office. 

Archer glared at him. “You gonna start with me, too?” 

Dunn shook his head. “Nope. Just making conversation.” 

“Good. And keep your hands to your fucking self while you’re at it.” 

Dunn huffed a laugh. “How long have you known her?” 

“I got here yesterday.” 

Dunn’s dark brows rose. “And that fast you’re sniffing?” 

“I’m not sniffing. She’s best friends with my brother.” 

“Which she made perfectly clear means she’s single. You’re the one who argued that point.” 

Available Now!

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Seven Places to Share a Kiss in Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls has been a popular honeymoon destination for years. Even if you don’t visit for your honeymoon, it’s a romantic city. Between the magic of the Falls, the beauty of the city at night, and the variety of activities, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to share a kiss!

At the Falls

This had to top the list. I mean, really, that’s why you’re here. At least when you’re not in your hotel room it’s why you’re here. The Canadian side of the Falls has better views, so I suggest heading across the border and posing for a kiss. Yes, take a picture! Or have someone else take it for you so you can enjoy the kiss that much more!

Under the Falls

I know you think I’m crazy, but I’m serious. You can take the Walk Behind The Falls (on the American side on Goat Island) or the Maid of the Mist (available on both sides). The Walk Behind The Falls gets you much closer to the action, but the Maid of the Mist is still pretty close. Share a kiss with the mist of the Falls all around you. You might even get lucky and see a rainbow. That’s magic!

Rainbow Bridge

Speaking of rainbows, one of my favorite spots is Rainbow Bridge. You can walk across the Bridge, but pause on your way and take a picture of your kiss. You can even have one of you in Canada and one in the USA!

Wine and Dine, and Kiss too

Both the American and Canadian side are littered with vineyards in the Niagara region. If you have any trouble finding one, well, you’re not looking hard enough! Taste some ice wine, grab a few glasses of Riesling, and take a tour. If you’re really lucky, you might be in town for a special event. Lots of kissing opportunities at a vineyard!

See it all

It’s hard to argue that the best views in the area are at the Skylon Tower in Niagara Falls, Canada. Book your reservation early for the Revolving Restaurant at the top of the Skylon Tower. As a bonus, you get free admission to the observation deck while you’re there for dinner. You won’t want to miss that!

If you’re happier being a little lot closer to the ground, check out Top of the Falls Restaurant on Goat Island, USA. It sits at the edge of the Falls and has spectacular views, on the ground.

Clifton Hill

If you have an adventurous side, you might want to check out Clifton Hill in Niagara Falls, Canada. Between rides and food and games, you won’t run out of things to do. Take a ride on the Niagara Skywheel and share a kiss at the top of the 175 feet tall ferris wheel.

Hornblower Niagara Cruises

I’ll confess, I haven’t done this, but I’m putting it on my own list of activities to share with my hubby! Hornblower Niagara Cruises offers lots of cruise options to suit whatever floats your boat! Their Voyage to the Falls boat tour gets you right in the action of the Falls. The Falls Illumination Cruise is a nighttime trip getting you up close and personal with the Falls all lit up. The Falls Fireworks Cruise is another nighttime cruise but with the added bonus of fireworks to light your way to your next kiss. You won’t want to miss any of them!

No matter where you go and what you do, any trip to Niagara Falls gives you special chances to share a kiss, or a few, with that special someone. Come join us, and enjoy those kisses!

Where would you like to share a kiss?

He was just another hot man. I didn’t need him for me. He was there for his brother. But the first time our lips touched, I knew resisting him was the hardest thing I’d ever have to do. But I was weak. I couldn’t do it. I had to have him. 

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Freedom is here!

Writing this book has been a struggle, the best kind of struggle. I never thought I’d write a romantic suspense, but this series, this book, pulled at me for so long that I knew I couldn’t ignore it any longer. I’m so happy I took this leap.

Grab your copy now!

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Three Places to Visit Outside Niagara Falls

A couple weeks ago, I shared my five favorite things to do on your trip to Niagara Falls. It’s a city I love, and a city I’m fortunate to live close to. I grew up going to Niagara Falls and didn’t realize it was a big deal until I moved away from the area. But there’s so much to do when you come visit! I didn’t want you to miss out on a few amazing places to visit when you need to get away from the city a little bit!

Niagara on the Lake

I love small town. Small, independently owned shops, people walking the streets, mom and pop restaurants. Does it get any better than that?

If you need to get away from the bustle of the city for a few days, but still want to stay close, Niagara on the Lake is a great spot to visit. With local vineyards, shops that feature products grown and made right there (jelly anyone?), and so many unique and beautiful things, you might not want to leave. Don’t even get me started on the food! I don’t think you can find a bad place to eat.

For more information on a trip to Niagara on the Lake, visit https://www.niagaraonthelake.com. Just as an FYI, it’s on the Canadian side, so bring your passports Americans!

Buffalo, New York

I have a soft spot for Buffalo since I grew up in the area and live there again. There is a lot to do in the Buffalo area, but I won’t go into all that! Buffalo sits about 20 minutes south of Niagara Falls on the edge of Lake Erie.

If you’re a sports fan, we have professional football (Buffalo Bills), baseball (minor league Buffalo Bisons), hockey (Buffalo Sabres), lacrosse (Buffalo Bandits), and tons of local colleges. If you try, chances are you’ll find a sporting event to catch no matter when you visit!

Canalside is a beautiful area of Buffalo with trails to walk or bike, stunning views of the Niagara River and Lake Erie, and a fun feel to the Queen City. In the summer, food trucks hang out and radio stations broadcast, and it turns into a party. With all the snow we get, we take every opportunity to get outside and enjoy the nice weather and turn it into a party!

Make sure you grab some chicken wings while you’re in town!

Toronto, Ontario

If you’re looking to head a little further away, Toronto is a city not to be missed. From its stunning position on the edge of Lake Ontario to the bustle of the city, you will fall in love with Toronto.

Whether you’re with family or adults only, Toronto offers something for everyone. My husband’s favorite is Medieval Times. My kids loved Ripley’s Aquarium and Legoland (a little north of Toronto). I think the views alone are worth the trip, especially from the CN Tower in downtown. Shopping and eating are always on the short list when we make the trip. St. Lawrence Market offers the Old Toronto Food Tour, a four hour tour with the opportunity to taste different foods in the world’s ‘best food market.’ Who wouldn’t want to do that?

Visiting Niagara Falls is well worth the trip, but adding in a few extra stops along the way will only make your trip better!
Where’s your favorite place to go around Niagara Falls?

Life was hard enough on my own. I couldn’t risk letting anyone close. When they got close, they got hurt. She was the only one I wanted to drag closer, but she wasn’t immune. She was in just as much danger. But the difference with her was she was a threat to me, too. Because with her around, I wanted things I had no business wanting. 

Available May 22

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Freedom is coming

It’s only two weeks until Freedom is finally here! I love these characters. Lily is spunky and independent and fun. Archer is the complete opposite – serious and stoic and determined. Bringing the two of them together was a wild ride!

If you haven’t preordered Freedom yet, go do it today so it’s waiting for you on May 22. You won’t want to miss this one!

Available May 22

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Five Things to do in Niagara Falls

Everyone knows Niagara Falls. Touted as one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in the world, Niagara Falls is a beautiful and majestic sight. It’s also a pair of cities full of things to do that will keep you entertained for days.

When you plan your next trip, plan a little extra time to hit up some of these places. You won’t be disappointed!

Niagara Power Vista

If you’re traveling with kids, this is a great place to spend a couple hours. It’s full of activities and a history of the construction of the power plant. An in depth view of how the plant was constructed and the time and manpower needed to turn a dream into a reality fascinated me. Between pictures taken during construction and adventures for the kids to see how electricity is made and used, it was a fun afternoon. Plus, it’s free!

Niagara Power Vista
Goat Island

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to stand in the middle of Niagara Falls? Goat Island is your chance. Originally a goat farm, now part of Niagara Reservation State Park, the oldest state park in the US, Goat Island offers unparalleled views of the Falls. Stand on the island and look over both the Canadian Horseshoe falls and the American Falls. If you’re really feel adventurous, walk over to Three Sisters Island or Luna Island and get even closer to the action!

Goat Island between the American and Canadian Falls
Maid of the Mist and Cave of the Winds

No trip to Niagara Falls is complete without a ride on the Maid of the Mist. There’s a boat on both the American and Canadian sides, both giving you a view of the Falls from the Lower Niagara. Prepare to get wet!

Cave of the Winds is a walking tour behind the American Falls. It’s a rush to be close enough that you can feel the water all around you. Wear good sneakers and leave behind anything that you don’t want to get wet. Trust me!

Maid of the Mist
Walk the Rainbow Bridge

The Rainbow Bridge goes between Niagara Falls, US and Niagara Falls, Canada. The view of the bridge over the Lower Niagara River, with the Falls in the background, is stunning. You have to walk a little on each side to find something to do, but the trip itself is well worth it. Make sure you bring your passport with you, though. You are crossing into a new country. If you’re like me, you’ll want to stop in the middle and take a picture. Remember that scene from A Walk To Remember? You can be in two places at once!

Rainbow Bridge through the mist of the Falls
Go shopping!

A trip anywhere isn’t worth it without a few souvenirs to bring home. My favorite place to shop in Niagara Falls, US is the

Going on a trip anywhere is exciting. You get to see and do new things. Having a little bit of an inside scoop makes the trip that much more fun! I hope you enjoy your visit to Niagara Falls!

What is your favorite thing to do in Niagara Falls?

I only ever needed a man for one thing. But when I called, the one man I never thought I could count on came running. He did more than help, he turned me inside out. And just when I thought everything would be okay, he dropped a bomb on me.

Available May 22

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Five Ways to Sneak a Moment Alone

Welcome back for part four of four on creating your perfect wedding ceremony. Your ceremony is almost there. We’ve discovered the perfect place, added touches of you, and found the right words for your vows. Now we need to make sure you don’t get overwhelmed.

Your wedding day can be one of the most stressful days of your life. It was for me. You’re the host for dozens to hundreds of people. They all want a piece of your time, and there’s only so much. So before you even get to the reception, take some time for yourselves.

Five Ways to Sneak a Moment Alone

Before you even walk down the aisle, ask for a few minutes by yourself. Your bridesmaids and parents want to be with you, but you’re about to change your life. Yes, for the better, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t stressful.

Asking for a few minutes to yourself doesn’t mean you’re plotting an escape. It’s a way for you to remind yourself why you’re there. By the time you get to your wedding day, you’ll have debated canceling the whole thing and running off to Vegas a few times (or maybe that was just me). Taking a few minutes before the ceremony starts to bring yourself back to when he asked you to marry him, or when you went on your first date, or the first time you both said ‘I love you’ will remind you why you’re there in a really heavy dress and about to face tons of people.
Refuse microphones during the ceremony. Some venues will have the ability to mic you and your fiancé so everyone there can hear every word you say. Refuse! Yes, it’s nice for your guests to know what you’re saying, but the wedding is for the two of you. Your families and anyone up close will still hear you, but your dad’s boss in the back row might not. That’s okay. It gives you a little privacy at a time when you have zero.

And if you whisper, you can tell him you love him or say something dirty and no one will ever know. You can’t do that if you’re mic’d up!
Have a room just for you after the ceremony. No wedding party, no family, just the two of you. Share a kiss and your favorite moment from the ceremony. Maybe he didn’t realize it was his grandma that whistled when you two kisses. Or maybe you didn’t see your best friend wiping her tears when you said ‘I do.’ You’ll want to know.
Arrange your own transportation to the reception. You rented a limo and want to ride in it with all your friends and family. Or maybe you just need ten minutes to yourself. If you didn’t plan ahead and find yourself needing time alone, ask a relative or friend if they’ll switch places with you and ride in the limo and hand over the keys to their car.

Yes, you’re surrendering your limo ride, but having a few minutes to decompress, especially if you have a long ceremony, might be worth more to you.
Skip the receiving line. What?!? I hear all the etiquette people screaming right now. Everyone wants to talk to you. They came here to see you. You can’t skip saying hi.

Actually, you can. Sort of.

Receiving lines aren’t as popular now as they once were, so if you don’t have one, it won’t be that big of a deal. If it gives you anxiety to have to say hi to so many people at once, then don’t do it! Take the extra time that you would be standing in a receiving line and change into a new outfit or let your hair down or just sit somewhere quiet and breathe. This is your day. Take that break when you want to.

Obviously, you know people want to talk to you. But there are plenty of opportunities at the reception to talk to them all. You don’t have to do it right after the ceremony. Give yourself some time and know you’ll see everyone.

Remember that this is your wedding day. If you’re the type of person who needs a few minutes after being the center of attention, take them! There’s nothing wrong with that. It’s better to disappear early and recharge than to skip the whole reception because you just can’t do it. Your family and friends will understand!

How did you find time alone on your wedding day?

One taste of her and I was done. I wasn’t strong enough to resist her. Not once I had her. I knew I should say no. Walk away. Stay away. But she kept pulling me back in. Teasing me with her sweet smile and sexy laugh. And don’t get me started on the way she flaunted her curves. Oh, no. She didn’t do any of it on purpose, and that made it worse. She had no idea what she was doing to me. But I knew exactly what I wanted to do with her. Over and over and over again. 

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Finding The Right Words

Today I’m sharing part three of four for creating your perfect ceremony. We’ve already talked about finding the perfect place for your ceremony and making it uniquely yours. This week I wanted to dig a little deeper into your vows. They’re arguably the most important part of the ceremony, so they deserve a little extra attention.

Vows, like every other aspect of your wedding, can be as traditional or non-traditional as you want. I mentioned before that my husband and I chose to use traditional vows for our wedding. I thought about writing our own vows, but he wanted to use the same ones that our families would have used for generations.

If traditional is the way to go for you, talk to your families. Ask if there was anything in their vows that they carried on from anyone else. Where did they get their vows? For us, our priest (we were married in a Catholic Church) read them to us. We didn’t offer any suggestions, just let him read the vows that were traditional for Catholic ceremonies.

Your particular faith likely has a traditional set of vows that are read at weddings. I found this article from Brides.com about vows from different faiths and thought it was a great starting point.

The thing to remember is nothing is set in stone, so even if you want to go traditional, you can ask your officiant what vows they intend to read and to allow you the freedom to alter them slightly.

If you’re more adventurous, or want to personalize your ceremony even more, you might want to try your hand at writing your own vows.

Writing your own vows can be tough. You’re pouring everything you want to say to the person you love in a two minute speech that you’re going to say in front of all your friends and family. Which means keep it short, and don’t get too personal.

Do you really want your grandma to hear the private details of your relationship?

I hope not.

Start by talking to your fiancé. Agree on the tone of the vows (silly or serious, romantic or real, etc.). If you’re taking the time to write your own, you probably want them to reflect who you are as a couple.

My husband and I both have a very dry sense of humor. When we met, he made me laugh. We’ve spent years laughing together, so if we wrote our own vows, they would have had a humorous tone to them. I also know I would have included something about laughter in our marriage.

Decide together if you’re going to keep them separate from each other or if you’re going to share parts or the whole thing with each other in advance. Maybe you want to vow something special, a phrase that you say to each other. Or you want to have some words or phrases the same in both. Agree on those and make sure you can work them in to the vows you plan to write.

Think about why you’re going to be standing in front of all your friends and family and promising to love, honor, and cherish the person you’re writing those vows for. What do you love about him? What made you say yes to that first date, or ask him out the first time? What drew you to him? What keeps you going back to him again and again?

It helps to write the answers out. Pick out words that keep coming up. If you repeat them, they mean something to you. Thread those words into your vows, wrap them up with the way you feel, and you’ll come up with the perfect vows.

You know you love him. Finding a way to tell him just how much he means to you isn’t going to be easy. But it is very possible. When you think you’ve got it, practice. Make sure it’s not too long. Keep practicing until you know every word is the exact one you want to use. When he hears the words you put together just for him, he’ll know how much you love him, and so will everyone else lucky enough to witness your love.

Do you plan to write your own vows or go with traditional vows?

Do you take this woman to be your lawfully wedded wife? Do you promise to make her laugh and kiss her goodnight? Do you promise to love her as much as the ocean and surround her with your love? Do you promise to give her all of you and accept all of her? Every day, from now until you are no more? 

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The Perfect Ceremony, part two

Last week we talked about finding the perfect place for your wedding ceremony. So many of us get lost in the wedding that we forget about the marriage, but we also get so worried about the reception, we forget about the ceremony.

Without the ceremony, there is no wedding, no marriage, no reception!

Once you have the perfect place for your wedding, you need to start thinking about what it’s going to be like. I’m Catholic, and we were married in a Catholic church, so my wedding was very traditional in the sense of everyone there probably knew all the lines.

I like traditional ceremonies. I like knowing that the words my husband and I said to each other were the same words people have been saying for generations. That we’re joining a long line of couples who’ve made the same promises to each other, read similar stories, and followed the same traditions.

On the other hand, non-traditional ceremonies offer you the option to personalize it. To make it all about who you are as a couple. They allow you the freedom to put your touch on every aspect of the ceremony from the readings, which could be favorite poems instead of readings from a Bible, to the song you dance down the aisle to after your first kiss as a married couple.

Traditional ceremonies are going to have vows that are familiar to everyone. Whether that’s a religious ceremony with a set order, or a ceremony that’s formed by traditions of your family for generations, it’s something that is familiar. Some traditions could include:

Reading Bible stories
Father giving the daughter away
Exchanging rings
Exchanging vows
Jumping the broom
First kiss as husband and wife

Not all ceremonies will include all of these, but if they’re common in your culture or religion, they’re things that you might want to do to add a little bit of history and tradition to your ceremony.

As families have changed and people have grown away from the way families lived hundreds of years ago, people have come up with new ideas so symbolize their new marriage. Some of those ideas are:

Unity ceremony (could be candles or sand or water or even your favorite alcohol)
Writing your own vows
Reading poems or stories about the couple getting married
Dance into and out of your wedding
Encourage audience participation

Your wedding can be anything you want it to be. It’s your day, so make it just right for you.

Sometimes your location will dictate some of your wedding. If you’re in a church, you’re not going to be able to release paper lanterns when you say your vows. If you’re outside, candles might not be the best idea (even on a calm day, a light wind could blow out the candle). But there are always options to personalize your wedding.

Friends of mine got married in a church and danced down the aisle after they were married.
My cousin got married outside and had a sand unity ceremony.
Other friends of mine got married and during the vows, one of the kids called out (happily) which prompted others in the audience to cheer with them.

Sometimes things are spontaneous and sometimes you can plan ahead. The biggest thing to remember is to have fun. You’re starting the rest of your life with the person you’re going to be walking down the aisle with. Enjoy it!

How do you plan to make your ceremony unique?

I always played it safe. From the men I dated to the jobs I took on. Nothing I did ever rattled the fences. But no matter how hard I tried, I couldn’t stop wanting my best friend’s brother. He was everything a man should be – kind, strong, confident, and sexy enough to set my sheets on fire. Too bad he was never between them with me when that happened. But one night, everything changed. One night he didn’t say no. And I knew I had to play it cool, or I really would get burned. 

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