VISION IS SUCH A BLESSING...

Hi, all,

I hope everyone had a good week and is looking forward to the weekend!

I'd like to thank you all for you prayers and good wishes during my eye ordeal. Each day it gets better. I had my appt. yesterday and all is looking well. I do have one more before I return to Chicago on Wednesday... BACK to the FROZEN TUNDRA... Temps dropped again up their, and it's even cool here in central Florida, BUT, I'm not complaining. It's actually beautifully sunny. A light jacket or sweater weather.

This whole situation also got me to thinking how important our eyes are to us as writers. Since the first surgery, I've had limited time on the computer because my eyes just can't take the strain. I remember the days when I could do sixteen hours a day. Sadly, not now. If I get through an hour, it's a lot. But in time it will improve. Before the second surgery, I was building up, now I'm back to square one.

Having clear vision is worth it though. I am a VISUAL ARTIST in EVERY sense of the word. Without my sight I'd be beyond consolable. So NEVER take your eyes for granted. Get those yearly check ups and try not to strain them TOO much with writing on the computer. My doctor says, put in natural tears every few hours to keep the eyes moist and that will really help with computer strain. Some EXCELLENT advice.

I hope to get around and visit you all soon. I've been wanting to make an announcement about my participation in the A-Z. I had hoped to repeat my theme from last year which was such a HUGE success. Plus I loved helping those authors announce their books. SO, by MONDAY... I should know. If you have a book you'd like me to feature PLEASE pop back on Monday. I hope to know by then if my eyes can handle it. If so, send me your books. Last year I did first come fist serve, but this year I'd like to have all your submissions and do a draw on multiple levels. I feel that is a more fair way. You'll have until Sunday, March 9th at midnight to get them to me. ON Monday, March tenth, I will contact the authors I plan to feature.

I REALLY hope I can do this. The only way I can is if I start writing the posts ahead of time. March will give me a good head start and if I can manage to get through the first half of the alphabet, I'll be able to get the other half done in April.

SO let's all keep positive, as you know I always do.

I'm still trying to finish my edit, which are really putting me through the paces. My editor's time is becoming more limited, so I really need to PUMP out the rest, so if you don't see me around, you'll know why.

Take care, everyone and have a WONDERFUL weekend!

Here's a pic of sunny Florida for my friends in the frozen north. I hope this brightens your day!

WHAT'S IN A WORD? ...

Hi, All,

I hope everyone is having a good week so far. Half way through already!

An unexpected complication brings me to Florida today. Something I had never planned on, but here I am. Life is full of surprises and we just never know when one will hit us between the eyes.

This has happened to a very close blogger friend, one whom most of you know. Roland Yeoman's had surgery done on his face from complications of cancer. I hate cancer. Many of my family had died from it. Please take a moment an say or prayer or send a good vibe Roland's way.

Tomorrow I have my surgery. Just a scraping of cells that got caught under the flap they lift to laser the eye. Of course, when it comes to my eyes I am a bit nervous. But I know all of you will send me good vibes and prayers as well.

This week DOES hold one HAPPY surprise though, it's Michelle Wallace's (Writer in Transit) three year blogoversary!

YAY MICHELLE! AND she is hosting a very intriguing bloghop featuring a most fascinating concept in African philosophy.... UBUNTU. Great word, isn't it?!

What is UMBUNTU?... you ask.

"In Africa, there is a concept known as UBUNTU – the profound sense that we are human only through the humanity of others; that if we are to accomplish anything in this world, it will in equal measure be due to the work and achievement of others." – Nelson Mandela.

So this week with unexpected surprises/issues that our community once more comes together to support each other.

Also Michelle has suggested to post anything creative, poem, illustration, etc. I had created a piece for a recent contest I had entered in the SCBWI ... sadly nothing came of it BUT, I love the whimsy and the bright colors and I do hope you all enjoy it.

If you have time PLEASE visit the other hoppers, on Michelle's site. 

ALL the best to you my friends!

THIS IS A PUBLIC SERVICE MESSAGE FROM THE HEART ...

Hi Everyone...

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

I know for many of us this day has special meaning. It's the one day a year dedicated to lovers. But over the years this holiday for sweethearts has taken an interesting turn. Because of commercialism there are now Valentine's greetings for your mom, dad, grandparents, kids, aunts, uncles, and even dogs and cats. 

At first it used to bother me to see this. Why does EVERY holiday have to end up being ruined by over advertising, over selling, and frankly over KILL. This crassness ruins it for me and many others.

But today, as I'm thinking, what about all the people who don't have that special sweetheart, this holiday is often painful. It reminds many people about how alone they really are and how sad life can be without a special someone to share it with.

So, why not express love in alternative ways? What harm is it really. This DAY It is ALL ABOUT LOVE... 

why not tell the special people in your life that you love them! Who cares if it's a family member or even your treasured pet. If it make you feel good... SHARE THE LOVE in any way you see fit.

Life is so hard and stressful. WE all need to slow down and take a breather and feel the warmth and love, no matter who it's from.

So, why not, for today, take a moment and hug someone. Share the love.

I'm sending a HUGE CYBER HUG out to all of you, my friends. 

Today's weather forecast .... IT'S RAINING LOVE! 

HAVE A WONDERFUL WEEKEND! I HOPE YOU ALL GET SOAKED!

IT'S A MOONLESS KIND OF DAY....

HAPPY MONDAY, EVERYONE! It's time for the PARTE' to begin!

HAPPY BOOK RELEASE, CRYSTAL!

This will be one uber cool blogfest!


I have the pleasure of co-hosting this FANTASTIC event!

Crystal Collier's novel MOONLESS is now released in PAPERBACK!

So for all you bloggers out there who LOVE holding a book in you hands. HERE'S you chance! PLUS Crystal's publisher is offering a two dollar discount! Hey, every little bit helps, right!

You still have time to join in the fun, too!

If you'd like to sign up... this is ALL you have to do...

"If you lived in a society where arranged marriages were a la mode, who would you beg your parents to set you up with? (Literary characters and celebrities welcomed.) Who and why? 

Isn't that a kicker?! Just think of the possibilities! So if you'd like us to know your deepest and darkest LOVE INTEREST... sign up on the linky below....

As for me... hmmm that really is a tough call. There are so many AMAZING people who i'd like to hook up with, but to pick ONE is not so easy for me. I have such varied interests and different people attract me in different ways.

Ah, if only I as twenty years younger. LOL. Then I would have a list as long as my arm. LOL. Crystal you are making this so hard for me! If I wasn't a co-host I'd plead the fifth. And, now that I think about it... I think I will.... Sorry lady co-hosts. This will have to land you three. LOL.

Speaking of co-hosts. I have THREE EXTRAORDINARY co-hosts, CRYSTAL herself...PK HREZO...Or...TAMMY THERIAULT! So please don't forget to visit them and the other 'festers!' I can't wait to read yours Tammy! LOL.

So, jump right in and ENJOY THE FEST~  and HAVE FUN!

Oh, and of course there are prizes too!

But first here are the deets....


In the English society of 1768 where women are bred to marry, unattractive Alexia, just sixteen, believes she will end up alone. But on the county doorstep of a neighbor’s estate, she meets a man straight out of her nightmares, one whose blue eyes threaten to consume her whole world—especially when she discovers him standing over her murdered host in the middle of the night.

Her nightmares become reality: a dead baron, red-eyed wraiths, and forbidden love with a man hunted by these creatures. After an attack close to home, Alexia realizes she cannot keep one foot in her old life and one in this new world. To protect her family she must either be sold into a loveless marriage, or escape with her beloved and risk becoming one of the Soulless.

Book link: https://www.createspace.com/4550104

Coupon code: LQJM3F84

So here's the question: If you lived in a society where arranged marriages were a la mode, whom would you beg your parents to set you up with? Why? (Literary characters and celebrities welcomed.) 

YOUR ANSWER HERE

Find the rest of the hop below!

And while you're at it, enter to win one of these great prizes!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

SPECIAL SUNDAY EDITION POST ...

Hi All,

I hope you're having a bang up weekend! Well it's almost over, but don't despair... TOMORROW is when the FUN REALLY BEGINS!

I have the pleasure of co-hosting a fantastic event in less than 24 hours! Our blogger buddy, Crystal Collier,  has exciting news... Her novel MOONLESS will be released in PAPERBACK! So for all you bloggers out there who LOVE holding a book in you hands. HERE'S you chance!

SO... in honor of the release, Crystal is holding the ultimate BLOGFEST. SO PLEASE drop by here tomorrow OR Visit one of three EXTRAORDINARY co-hosts, CRYSTAL herself...PK HREZO...Or...TAMMY THERIAULT! Not to mention the other 'festers!'


If you'd like to sign up... this is ALL you have to do...

"If you lived in a society where arranged marriages were a la mode, who would you beg your parents to set you up with? (Literary characters and celebrities welcomed.) Who and why? 

Isn't that a kicker?! Just think of the possibilities! So if you'd like us to know your deepest and darkest LOVE INTEREST... sign up on the linky below....

Have a FANTASTIC SUNDAY everyone and don't forget to drop by tomorrow for the fun!

Oh, and of course there will be prizes too!

A TALE THAT NEEDS TO BE TOLD...

A cool steel blade flashes on the side of the First Knight of the King’s elite. Battle worn and exhausted from the numerous attacks by mythical creatures, the knight collects yet another trophy off the dead creature’s body and adds it to the lanyard worn around her neck. This time an ivory fang.

Rielle bends down to examine the carcass further and raises a weary brow.

Strange. Another manacle with the Trident of Delphine. 

Can it be true?

Images of her last meeting with Brody flash through her mind.

A frigid chill sears her skin. 

Four years since past…that infernal day my heart stopped beating.

She shrugs her shoulders, unleashes her blade, and cuts into the dead beast once more.

Could it actually be Captain Brody, alias Prince Broderick of Delphine, now living in self exile, responsible for these attacks?

Or a hidden conspiracy?

All fingers point to Brody. 

But, is the symbol bearing his Trident etched into each mythical creature proof enough?

No one knows for sure who the true culprit is, but Rielle is on a mission to find the captain and arrest him.

Will she complete her task?

And, if so, will she fall under his spell once more?

A final twist of fate turns the tables on Rielle and she is in a battle once more…

A battle she may not survive.

Well all, what do you think? Are you hooked? I know I am. 

Mary's vivid imagery and battle scenes are rich with description and her heroine is so unique and intriguing. I had such fun creating this intro for her newest novel. 

Mary is an AMAZING writer and this is the third book in the series. Once you've read one, you'll want to read them all!

So check out the banners below and make sure you enter Mary's contest.

I wish you all the best, Mary! Congrats!

Oh, and as a final note... THANK YOU ALL for THE BLITZ ON WEDNESDAY. IT REALLY CHASED AWAY THE MID WINTER BLUES!!!

Have an AWESOME weekend everyone!

Quest of the Hart (MuseItUp)

Charmed Memories (MuseItUp)

Different Kind of Knight (MuseItUp, 1/31/14)

Faery Marked (BookFishBooks, 2014)

marywaibel.blogspot.com

Content Editor, BookFishBooks

   

a Rafflecopter giveaway

WINTER BLUES...

Hi, All,

Well we are officially in the second month of 2014 and February is the height of winter. As I view the snow falling down endlessly here in Chicago, one can't help feeling blue. The frigid temps have kept me inside for over a month, only leaving for errands and working out. No real joy in that, is there.

February is a sad month for me because it's the anniversary of my parents who are no longer with me. It's also the month my mom and grandmother died. So I always get blue this time of year.

BUT... yes, there is a but... I ALWAYS like to keep as positive as I can. With February in our mists, we only have a few more months until spring. I LOVE spring. I was born in the height of spring, so I rejuvenate at this time of year.

I know many of you have the mid-winter blues as well. Thoughts of spring certainly help, but may not be enough. This is the time to bring spring indoors. Go to your market. Start buying fresh flowers. Lucky for me Trader Joe's has tulips and hyacinths all ready blooming.

Next freshen up your home. bring in some light colors. Change out your dark and heavy pillows and drapes for lighter and brighter ones. Start now. We all rush in the decorations for the holidays, why not have an early spring. So what if it's snowing out and it's ten below zero. Inside your cozy nest you can enjoy the warmth of spring.

I know it's hard. Trust me. It's a major effort for me too. At lastly, why not start wearing some brighter colors. Sweaters, hats, and gloves come in a rainbow of shades these days, so DITCH the BLACK AND NAVY.  Bring out the baby blues, pinks, apple greens, and yellows. I promise, you'll feel more uplifted.

As most of you know, today is the first Wednesday of the month... So make sure you drop by the other Insecure writers here and give them a cheery hello. WE can all use it during the mid winter blues!

And don't forget to visit the new IWSG website here!

Have a WONDERFUL day everyone!

WHAT WOULD YOU DO WITH AN EIGHT DAY IN A WEEK? ...

Hi, All.

Imagine. An eighth day. Another day of the week to do whatever you'd like. A day all to yourself. Just think about it for a moment.

Ah. Great idea, right?

If only there was...

But there is... (insert sinister laugh here.)

Imagine the possibilities.

Can you?

I did this weekend. I took a trip to The Eight Day.

Only a select chosen few were able to visit. And I was one of them. Imagine the world, our world, suspended in time. Clocks remain still. Electricity is no longer in service. Your family is gone, and you are left alone to fend for yourself.

What would you do?

Leave the darkness of your house for an empty street. The pink sky mocking you with every step. You search frantically for your neighbors who are no longer present. No cars bustling down the street. No cute, little squirrels racing up a tree. Nothing but you...

This happened to my newest friend, Jax. A thirteen-year-old boy. Also chosen.

He was taken away from a safe life with a family member to live with a stranger. A teenager himself.

Odd. Don't you think?

But it was his father's dying wish.

Why?

We can only guess.

The Eight Day holds many mysteries. Many unanswered questions. Who lives in this altered world? Friend or foe?

Again, we can only guess.

Soon. Very soon. You, too will have some of the answers. It's a trip you'll surely want to take. I'm glad I did.

The Eighth Day by Dianne K. Salerni

Well, all.  I hope you enjoyed my bit of fun on this intro for Dianne Salerni's newest novel. I was lucky to be able to receive an ARC of this novel and I am THRILLED to give you my review. As you can see from my intro, I truly enjoyed this book.

Can you imagine living on a day between Wednesday and Thursday?

Dianne is brilliant!

She weaves a tale of mystery, excitement, magic, and oh so much more. Her MC, Jax is a sweet, thirteen year old boy, but with an extraordinary gift. He, with other gifted people live on the Eight day, an extra day of the week.

On this day, he meets a young girl, living at his neighbor's house, but she is not there by chance. Is she a prisoner or a ghost? And why does she only appear on the eighth day?

Well, Jax is convinced she is just a cute girl a year or two older than he is and insists on becoming her friend.

Jax's guardian, Riley, has a different view. He practically orders Jax to leave her alone.

Why? you ask. Hmmm. This and many other intriguing aspects keeps the reader engaged until the very last page.

What I really enjoyed most about this story was the amazing cast of characters all linked to the Middle Ages and King Arthur's court. We see a wide spectrum...Odd. Mean. Dangerous. Funny. And yes, Cruel. Almost all vying for power in the Eighth day.

The climatic scene was an unexpected and original surprise with many twists and turns. Ms. Salerni truly has a the gift for the fantastic.

The Eight Day is the first in a trilogy, and I'll be waiting anxiously for any news of book two.

Both adults and middle graders will totally enjoy this tale.

All the best, DIANNE! And THANKS!