tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20186334135640744372024-03-14T12:11:48.945-05:00Okay, Listen HereFive Southern Writers Have Their SayStephanie Jones AKA Alicia Hunter Pacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03023631488715031414noreply@blogger.comBlogger696125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2018633413564074437.post-84869371458574965882013-05-16T09:30:00.000-05:002013-05-16T09:30:03.812-05:00Falling Doors?<br />
A funny thing happened yesterday. To the best of my memory, this is how it played out…<br />
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My oldest daughter (OD) woke up and came downstairs to find me pondering the living room arrangement. She stopped halfway down, gave me that raised-eyebrow-look before continuing on. She paused in the entry, then came around and plopped down into the wing-back. We talked amiably as she wiped away the lingering fog of sleep. After a few minutes, she stood up, turned to walk away, then suddenly turned back with that same raised-eyebrow-look-turned-glare. And it happened. <br />
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She said, "Tell me you had the yard man come in and move that wardrobe out of the entry into the living room." <br />
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Me. "No. I moved it. Veezer helped me. It wasn't a big deal."<br />
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OD. "You can't do these things, Mom!"<br />
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Me. "It's okay, really. I unloaded everything, slid it into place with furniture movers, and then reloaded it. Easy peasy. Really."<br />
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OD. "No!” Her hands are on her hips at this point. “What if the doors fell open while you were moving it and it sucked you into Narnia? Huh? What would I do then? You'd be in the other-world of Narnia and no one would know it. And I couldn't save you from that!"<br />
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And then she turned and stomped away, grumping over her shoulder, “never mind it could’ve killed you had it fallen over.”<br />
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Life in literary-world is amazing...Narnia? :D<br />
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Lesia Flynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17961313800912097829noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2018633413564074437.post-89122325452739440492013-05-12T09:30:00.000-05:002013-05-12T09:31:15.459-05:00A Mother's Love<br />
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Today is Mother’s Day, May 12, 2013. I find myself reflecting once again on who I
am, where I come from, what I’m made of.
I can hardly go there without thinking on my mother Norma Jean and
Grannie. Both have many years past now and
pulled that earthy blanket up to their chins to wish us all a good night. I miss them, the buggars!</div>
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Anyway, first off, I have to say this about memories. Doc M, Sister, and I have three very different
sets of memories. It would seem we weren’t
sisters <i>at all</i> with how different
they are. But with Doc M a bit older, I
understand her perspective <i>should</i> be
different. But Sister and I? We’re Irish Twins, for cryin’ out loud! You’d think we could agree on one memory,
right? Probably not. I finally came to grips with this when
someone explained to me that memories are filtered through our emotions. Ahha!
That explains it. We are polar opposites when it comes to our emotions,
she and I. But still, it doesn’t keep us
from asking each other from time to time, “Where did you come from?” Hahaha!</div>
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I think there are two memories we can all agree on. One, Norma Jean was a serious
romance-book-aholic! I can’t remember a
night of my life in her house that she didn’t go to bed with one. And many a night was there that we found her
with a paperback tented over her breasts, glasses askew and her snores reaching
to high heavens. Little did I know back
then that it would be one of my favored memories of her. </div>
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Why, you ask? Because
I was the bane of her existence when it came to reading. I hated it!
Jack London’s <i>Call of the Wild</i>,
Beverly Cleary’s <i>Ramona the Pest</i>, Wilson
Rawls’ <i>Where the Red Fern Grows</i>? Hated all of them. Oh the books Norma Jean presented to me,
every single one of which I slung right back at her. Ack! I
couldn’t even get past chapters one. In
fact, the only author I would have anything to do with until I was twelve years
old was Don Freeman. Oh how I loved
(still do) his stories, especially <i>Dandelion</i>.
But that’s it. No other
books. None. Zero. That
is, until… (You know it!) that lovely little red and white covered Harlequin
showed up on my lap. Frankly, I think
she dropped it there in disgust at me and said something like, “This is the
last straw. I don’t know what else to
give you to read, child.”</div>
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Amazingly, I read chapter one. Then two.
And three and four and …all the way to the end. And then I asked for another. And another.
And another. And then she gave me
my very own subscription to Harlequin Romance. It was a brand new world for me and I knew
who I was then. I was a romance junkie. My engine had been jumpstarted and there was
an endless supply of stories in my soul.</div>
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From there on out when we would travel to my grandparents I
would imagine stories to write. Sadly I couldn’t read in the car or else I’d
throw up everywhere. So I would think
about the stories I’d read and make up my own.
They were simple stories, boy meets girl, they fall in love, you know
the drill. But they were stories that entertained
me just the same. And that was the
beginning of my lifelong passion for love and romance and telling stories. With that, I learned to love to read because
reading was the vehicle for receiving the love.
This was the greatest love my momma loved me with, she taught me to
enjoy reading by helping me find what I loved to read. Bless her heart. She should get special Mamma Rewards in
heaven for that, don’t you think? Lord
knows I tried her patience!</div>
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My second memory I think the three of us can agree on is one
of Grannie. Grannie was a gardener and a
fisherwoman. She could grow something in
concrete and catch a fish out of the toilet, yes she could! Granted, she was a lot of other things too,
but those two were constants. Anyway, it
seemed that flowers were the preferred expression of love between the women in
our family, and in my perspective it was by Grannie’s leadership that it became
that way. When a holiday arrived,
flowers were given. And Mother’s Day was
a full bouquet of love. I remember the
joy Norma Jean would have over surprising Grannie with an heirloom rose bush or
some other coveted bloom. It seemed
there was a rhythm to their exchanges, a time proven love for each other
through these flowers. Sadly, I left
home and didn’t grow into that role with them, but I remember it. And I’ve tried to resurrect it in my own
family. I have hydrangeas my girls gave
me for Mother’s Day a few years back adorning the back side of my house like
they did Grannie’s. And maybe this year
I’ll get those Knock Out Rose bushes I asked for for under the dining room
windowsill. But one thing’s for
sure. Every time I look at the flowers
in my yard, I remember the love between the women I came from. And I will give thanks for the love they gave
to me. </div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Happy Mother’s day y’all.</span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">I hope the day blooms lots of love for you, too!</span></div>
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Lesia Flynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17961313800912097829noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2018633413564074437.post-28886952380496614622013-04-26T05:00:00.000-05:002013-04-26T05:00:17.514-05:00Batcat to the Rescue!<br />
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<b>I've been kinda absent in the past few months...absent from
blogging but present everywhere else, it seems.
And in that absence I posted a few incidents on social networking sights
that a few folks have requested again.
So, I'll try to post them here in the next few days/weeks just for fun
and for getting back in the swing of things.
Enjoy! :D<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>From February 17th...<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicDaiWq9iiRp5-nHISCKwurt_vUPdyVdonb03vEurimQ5VTY28OfSbiPSxaeIARkEbcg-RwxhYqkiiIMr9a5mvvkG5rWgxUWbPrWErigsX13Tvi1J-oowhzjgOP1PduHG5NdfENfP0nfXd/s1600/Batcat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicDaiWq9iiRp5-nHISCKwurt_vUPdyVdonb03vEurimQ5VTY28OfSbiPSxaeIARkEbcg-RwxhYqkiiIMr9a5mvvkG5rWgxUWbPrWErigsX13Tvi1J-oowhzjgOP1PduHG5NdfENfP0nfXd/s320/Batcat.jpg" width="320" /></a><b>For all my grumbling about Chali2Na and his consistent
begging for me to let him outside throughout most days, I’m very thankful this
morning for his persistence. From the first time I brought him home with me,
he’s been extremely aware of our property…he tells me things…things like
when a package arrives on the porch and the delivery man doesn't knock or ring
the bell. (That one freaked me out the first time it happened.) He also lets me
know when my little one doesn't get off the bus. I usually have to calm him
down on that one.</b></div>
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<b>But this morning? The little buggar would NOT give in. I had
already fed him, there are no bus schedules or deliveries on Sunday mornings, and it’s too cold for him to go outside...I’d already tried pushing him out four
times! But what to do when he won’t give up and keeps meowing and pressing his
little clawwed-paws against me to get my attention? Okay already! Ack! <o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b>So I go to let him outside, <i>again!</i> But what does my little
rescuer take me to? A fire in the kitchen! Yep. Earlier, I had turned on the front
burner of the black glass-top stove to heat a pot of water, placed the water on
the back burner and didn't notice the dark green oven mitt sitting on the front
burner that I had turned on. Gads! And there it was right in front of me, up in
flames! Mr. Chali2Na sat smug in the middle of the room waiting for me to jump to it. <o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b>Oh the smell was awful! Bleck! Of course, I quickly put the
fire out (thanking Norma Jean for teaching me these skills as a child). And
then Chali decided it wasn’t too cold to go outside afterall. Buggar!<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b>Strangely, the rest of the family slept through the entire
episode…..I was soooo tempted to yell <i>FIRE!</i> and wake 'em all up!
Hahaha….imagine the mayhem….hahaha! Nah, I decided on another quiet cup of coffee instead. </b><b>See? Sometimes I keep my circus to myself! :D</b></div>
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<b>How 'bout you? Ever been rescued by a rescue cat? </b></div>
Lesia Flynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17961313800912097829noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2018633413564074437.post-52642561431109781872013-04-17T05:00:00.000-05:002013-04-17T05:00:04.813-05:00Under the Influence of Love<div class="MsoNormal">
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I’m on my way home from a little hiatus in the clouds
brought on by a dance that the local dentist initiated. Don’t get me wrong, she’s a keeper, the
dentist. But, whoa doggies! Did that little spin around the chair ever
cause me some down time! </div>
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So what’s a girl to do when she’s left drug-dizzy and immobile
for two weeks? She’s left to take a little
help from her friends, yesiree. So I
took a nudge from all my TV lovin’ friends and set out to watch some shows from
the past few years. Why? Because I think the last time I watched TV as
a form of entertainment (and not for the weather ripping through town) was
about the time I had my first kid. I
just haven’t had a minute to spare for such things since then. So I aimed to catch up a little and see what
I’ve missed. I didn’t get very far. Once I caught up with the latest episodes of
Eureka on Netflix with the mini-Nerdette, the next place I landed was where I
stayed. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsjoBB4zJgcjOayj8AvSzAjaxkl_KO_IX7NukNNgSRHtljgc-BqNSD5wUgVsO5yKIm1epPF_VnPzm2wGH3vzyJDugqsa_OssuTQLWBJ1oSqi0n3_P9vHLIuEuQhaJWLZj498KlFQc7aU96/s1600/Raylan+Givens.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsjoBB4zJgcjOayj8AvSzAjaxkl_KO_IX7NukNNgSRHtljgc-BqNSD5wUgVsO5yKIm1epPF_VnPzm2wGH3vzyJDugqsa_OssuTQLWBJ1oSqi0n3_P9vHLIuEuQhaJWLZj498KlFQc7aU96/s320/Raylan+Givens.jpg" width="320" /></a>It’s a little place in Kentucky where there’s a bad-ass Deputy
US Marshall named Raylan Givens. I think
I fell in love with him on the spot. Now
Netflix can’t exchange DVDs with me fast enough. I’m a TV addict. Yes I am.
And I've got forty two episodes to go. </div>
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So what do you do when someone says, "Relax. This won't hurt a bit."? Ever fall in love while under the influence?</div>
Lesia Flynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17961313800912097829noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2018633413564074437.post-23214667756153030452013-02-27T13:00:00.000-06:002013-02-27T13:00:00.248-06:00T’ain’t No Gifting Going On<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1M6-D0AC4csG5KMrMa0wLbSpqOyJWtj2n59B7ubkVi73qoFHIet_kLMWnOUjMW_nedxMZT-XbsLYJFmxcFva8mq1-WNWgsxuRESxWdZwFSjbREygyZJi4pBhj5pDUSkdYtKId0BdP9Uto/s1600/Presents.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1M6-D0AC4csG5KMrMa0wLbSpqOyJWtj2n59B7ubkVi73qoFHIet_kLMWnOUjMW_nedxMZT-XbsLYJFmxcFva8mq1-WNWgsxuRESxWdZwFSjbREygyZJi4pBhj5pDUSkdYtKId0BdP9Uto/s320/Presents.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Every once
in a while I get surprised with a gift.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">
</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">You know the ones…I’m in the middle of sticking a meatloaf in the oven
when the doorbell rings and the delivery guy from the florist is running from
my house after having left a gorgeous bouquet on the porch.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Or I show up for lunch with a friend and she
has a little somethin’ somethin’ waiting at my place.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">We all love a little extra special love,
right?</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I know I do.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">But here’s
the thing. Every time this happens, I
can’t help but look at myself and think, “Wow, Lesia! When’s the last time you gifted anyone?” Now don’t get me wrong, I’m not a selfish
sort. For instance, Christmas gifting is
one of my favorite things to do. But
random gifting? It never <i>ever</i> occurs to me! It’s like it’s just not in my wiring or
something. Birthdays? Uh….hmm.
You have one, right? Of course
you do! Will I think of it? Not unless there’s a timer in my phone to
alert me. That’s just sad, right? Okay, so I even forget my own wedding
anniversary. There! It’s that bad! And….I’m truly embarrassed to say….I do have
gifts for my sisters somewhere around here.
I just never think to get them in the mail. That’s serious, right?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Now self-ruminating made me wonder….what makes a gifter gift? And this landed me on a book by Gary Chapman,
The 5 Love Languages. Fascinating stuff
in that series, but it did present an answer I could wrap my thoughts
around. Gifters gift because that’s how
they show they love you. Huh! Who knew?
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">So what are
the other love languages you ask?
According to Mr. Chapman they are:
Words of Affirmation, Quality Time, Acts of Service, and Touch. While I’m not exactly sure what my language
is, I know for certain it t’ain’t no gifitn’ thang! (Okay, so maybe it has something to do with
words….I’ve truly missed writing for y’all on a regular basis!)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">How ‘bout
you? I’m curious…do you gift or do you ruminate? :D<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Lesia Flynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17961313800912097829noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2018633413564074437.post-20370086521072909992012-12-06T05:00:00.000-06:002012-12-06T05:00:03.707-06:00A Mix-It-Up Under the Tree<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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The time has come where the Southern Girls of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Okay Listen Here</i> are mostly published and
moving in various directions, multitasking like no other time before.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s been an incredible journey together,
learning and growing, laughing and thrilling together in the written word.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Being the newest voice under the tree, I had
to go back and look at what all has happened over the years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And le’me tellya, Cher!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What wonderful times have been had underneath
this tree!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Stories of Precious Angel and
Oldest Friend, Book Reviews and talk of cereal<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">, fabulous </i>Friday Recipes, tales of the High Seas and Pirates and
Gators, and Barn Tales and Ghost Stories, too!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And then along came my voice of wacky to throw into the mix this past
year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’ve laughed a lot and made new
friends along the way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It has been wonderful!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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But now with Alicia Hunter Pace (aka Jean Hovey and
Stephanie Jones) and Katherine Bone published and touring other blogs and
manning websites and such…not to mention writing more stories to entertain us
all… well, it’s time to heed the changing season and mix it up a bit here on
the bench.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Starting this week, we’re going to post blogs on a need
basis rather than every day of the week, Monday thru Friday.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In other words, when we need to step under
the tree and say something (of great importance, no doubt!), we’ll blog and let
you know by way of our usual social groups, Facebook
and such.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We don’t want you to miss one
beat of what’s going on with us in the world, be it publishing or our day-to-day
happenings. </div>
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<br /></div>
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So followers, thank you for reading our words, encouraging
us, laughing together with us and supporting us on our journey into the world
of books.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We are each so very thankful
for your support and interaction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Watch
and be ready though!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know there will
be more stories to share very soon! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In
the meantime, please find Alicia Pace Hunter and Katherine Bone at <a href="http://www.amazon.com/" target="_blank">Amazon</a>, <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/" target="_blank">Barnes & Noble</a>,
and <a href="http://www.crimsonromance.com/" target="_blank">Crimson Romance</a><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You are just going
to LOVE their books!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And if you want to help, “Like” their titles
at such places as Amazon, Goodreads, and Pinterest to spread the word.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Shout it out and let the world know there are
a few Southern writers new to the publishing world having their say!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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Happy reading, y’all!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>See you soon, right here under the tulip tree…..</div>
Lesia Flynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17961313800912097829noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2018633413564074437.post-19325068543397056362012-12-03T07:31:00.001-06:002012-12-03T07:31:22.908-06:00Balance<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have not had much trouble balancing my responsibilities in
years—until lately. Every writer works, waits, and prays that one day she will
be able to say, "I'm on deadline." But it's a double edged sword. It
means that finally, finally someone has bought your book on proposal, but you
have signed a contract promising to have that book finished by a certain time.</div>
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Stephanie and I are there. That certain time is January 1. I
have been terrified that we won't get done. And what would happen? Well, surely
our editor would call all the other editors in the known world and say,
"Jean and Stephanie, writing as Alicia Hunter Pace, did not get done. Put
them on THE LIST." And everyone knows what the THE LIST is. It's the roster of
people who never get to publish another book. Not only that, they have had
their computers, legal pads, pens, and that old dusty Smith-Corona typewriter
in the attic taken away. No more writing. And that is worse than no more
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So all I did was write, worry, and fret because my house was
dirty and I needed to do some things to begin to get ready for Christmas. Then
I realized I was doing more worrying and fretting (which is the same thing
in my internal dictionary, no matter what Daniel Webster thought) than I was
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I don't function well when my house is not in order. It
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It was time to call on my old friend Logic. I got out that
handy dandy plot chart that Stephanie insisted that we make. I figured out we
lacked four scenes—two pretty long, one medium, and one short. They would all
have a lot of dialogue because that's how we roll. Add on a little epilogue and
done. Though we are not tied to a word count, I reckoned we lacked about 9
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I have never been one to look at how many words I write in a
day. Lots of writers do. They even have goals. I don't know why I don't care
about that. I just write and hope for the best. But now I wondered.</div>
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So I did a little figuring. On a good unrushed day, I can
write 2000-2500 words. That's after I edit the previous days writing, which I
always, always do. </div>
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<br /></div>
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I finally faced what Stephanie had been trying to tell me
all along: We were not in trouble. So, last Friday, I did not write. I cleaned
my house, went to lunch with Oldest Friend, conned Oldest Friend into helping
me finish decorating the front of my house for Christmas. That night, I took my
niece to eat at Red Robin and to see <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Breaking
Dawn.</i> Over the weekend, The Guy and I got a tree, set it up, and got boxes
out of the attic. We went to church, to lunch, a party, and played D&D.
Most important, we watched our team win the SEC Championship. (Roll Tide and
National Championship, here we come!)</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And all the while—well maybe not during that intense game—,
I played in my head what I would write today. I am ready to roll. It's going to
be a great writing day. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Did you have to learn balance or does it come natural?</div>
Alicia Hunter Pace (aka Jean Hovey and Stephanie Jones)http://www.blogger.com/profile/13844329805282121486noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2018633413564074437.post-26570647162562322862012-11-29T05:00:00.000-06:002012-11-29T05:00:07.646-06:00Living Large Underneath a Stetson<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I was
saddened earlier in the week to hear of Larry Hagman’s death.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The first I read of it was a short blurb on
Facebook about how he claimed to be the reason for the Berlin Wall coming
down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And of course, I can’t find that
article now or I’d send you there to see for yourself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Anyways, apparently
he claimed that he caused the fall of the Berlin Wall by way of the success of
the TV show <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Dallas</i> that he starred in
in the 1980s.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To his thinking (according
to the article), the show caused the changes because the world saw how opulent
and abundant life could be in the US by way of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Dallas</i> reruns.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He might’ve
been on to something there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can’t exactly
rise to a possibility you don’t know is out there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The article
also mentioned that Mr. Hagman was a huge storyteller.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t know firsthand if he was or not, but
I do know he was a big man.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know because
I found myself standing next to him at an arts festival in Dallas back in the ‘80s.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes indeed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I looked up to see who was there next to me, and low and behold I found
myself shrinking down to Polly Pocket size as I looked up, and up, and up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I mean he was <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Big</i>!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And on top of that, he
wore himself a 10 ½ gallon Stetson hat to boot!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And le’me tellya!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His smile would
melt the world’s crisis down to a liquid puddle!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was big <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">and </i>beautiful!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And quite a gentleman
too, at least that day I saw him.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I didn’t
watch much of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Dallas </i>since I was
kinda surrounded by it back then.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I did watch a lot of the younger version
of Larry Hagman on <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I Dream of Jeannie</i>
when I was very (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">very!</i>) young.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I loved that show because it made me laugh,
and y’all know I do <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">love</i> me some
laughter!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">On a different
TV note, I’ve been lassoed by Southern Belle (of the Margarita Mamas variety) into
watching Bayou Billionaires.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">What in the Sam Hill…?</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Y’all should be afraid.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Those are my crazy coonass people!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One show was all I needed to require a personal
speech therapist.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Aszou kin prolly tell
here, I ain’t quite recovered yit, dagnabbit!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Well...
Goodnight Mr. Hagman.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>May you rest in
peace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And thank you for all the smiles
and laughter….and for bringing that wall down, too!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>:D</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">How about
you…do you have memories of Larry Hagman on any favorite TV shows?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How about a Stetson hat…got one of those?</span></div>
Lesia Flynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17961313800912097829noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2018633413564074437.post-63730356875648467292012-11-28T05:00:00.000-06:002012-11-28T05:00:15.549-06:00What is Creativity?I often think that I am not very creative. Well not creative in what I think of as the "normal' way. I took piano lessons for years but really don't play that well, no natural talent. I took art lessons for a couple of years but can only draw a clown and a cube. Well, I drew a turkey for my class last week and one of my students said, "Ms. Jones, that turkey is mixed." I asked him what he meant and he said, "That turkey looks like his daddy was a turkey and his momma was a turtle!" I looked and sure enough he was right. My turkey had a turtle head. Okay, so no artist talent for me either. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv55H3JgPiHHis8DcO0SMfw12oN20yHoK_QWOq0HfWHSp_qtCbxVDtfPfzBVEQFAZOZfRl6b4v8eyjzcXIazEWTbyqNpg0cerbO5NCT2YRiTjKedVKql64wU1pSOdTB3V74UqnkVv0GuKj/s1600/sweetfinalcover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv55H3JgPiHHis8DcO0SMfw12oN20yHoK_QWOq0HfWHSp_qtCbxVDtfPfzBVEQFAZOZfRl6b4v8eyjzcXIazEWTbyqNpg0cerbO5NCT2YRiTjKedVKql64wU1pSOdTB3V74UqnkVv0GuKj/s200/sweetfinalcover.jpg" width="130" /></a></div>
I have come to realize that I have what I think of as an unusual talent...I make up stories. Since these stories were only in my head no one ever saw them I didn't think that it could be a kind of creativity. <br />After all, artists and musicians were creative. Authors and song writers were creative. I just made up stories. Then one day after writing with Jean for a while I realized that if our stories got published that we would be published authors. Authors were creative! I was being creative! This realization gave me a new respect for the work Jean and I were doing. It also gave me the confidence to think that I might be more creative that I thought! Today I am able to share the cover of our new book that was released this week, <em>Simple Gone South</em>. Having a book for sale, now that will make a girl feel creative!<br />
<br />
I recently went to a painting party. I didn't really want to go but it was a group of church friends and we were having our meeting there so I was sucked into the art. At first we made fun of my efforts. My painting was looking pretty rough! But I kept working and doing some of the things that the art lady told me to try then lo and behold, it started to look better! By the end of the night it actually looked good and one of the girls copied something from it. I felt creative! It was great!<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinWzRk_oFIVT97EZt9N1I1sc05yG_F82FuIC3gDS3CwHHjY2Z7Jj7_vtCjOXc-FRo1-TykMpOEypHtfvnqo-81fOGZ8tbzRdIaSgvgA2eBP8y3YNexuCKoOzNLXPQOvZVszGBozM7pbZtq/s1600/wreath.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinWzRk_oFIVT97EZt9N1I1sc05yG_F82FuIC3gDS3CwHHjY2Z7Jj7_vtCjOXc-FRo1-TykMpOEypHtfvnqo-81fOGZ8tbzRdIaSgvgA2eBP8y3YNexuCKoOzNLXPQOvZVszGBozM7pbZtq/s320/wreath.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Wreath Painting</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
What does creativity mean to you?Stephanie Jones AKA Alicia Hunter Pacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03023631488715031414noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2018633413564074437.post-16802042743057958302012-11-27T01:00:00.000-06:002012-11-27T01:00:03.182-06:00Stowing Unnecessary BaggageDriving home from work today, I was dazzled by the breeze gently stripping leaves off of the trees. Various colors of discarded foliage whipped across my path. This, of course, is normal during Autumn, but I was taken aback by the beauty in discarded things.<br />
<br />
For some reason, these days I've been feeling a burr under my pirate garb to discard many things in my life, namely clothes I don't wear anymore and so forth. (Especially after the store changed the dress code.) You get the idea, right? Honestly, how much stuff does a pirate need? The answer should be, only enough to carry aboard ship whilst sailing off on a new adventure. But is that true? Well, that's got me pondering again about life and what I want and need.<br />
<br />
Why is my closet so full? Why do I stash things under my bed? (Besides 3 novels that will never see the light of day.) Why must I cram other things in nooks and crannies to get them out of the way? What do I do with normal decorations while I put out Christmas decorations? And what's up with holding onto my kids things in the hopes that my grandchildren will play with them? (They only want to learn to rove like Captain Mimi anyway.)<br />
<br />
I digress... but you get the picture.<br />
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But today, I realized something as those leaves made their way lyrically through the air only to land in a heap on the ground. We cast off from shore all the time, leaving behind old homes, towns, schools, friends, and least desired... family. Yes, we entertain the notion that the grass is always greener on the other side. We purchase and stash, purchase and stash. We stand in long lines just for the chance to buy things on sale, even when we don't know if what we want will still be available. All of this made more perfectly clear as this past weekend and Black Friday/Cyber Monday shopping madness hit stride as stores opened on Thanksgiving night!<br />
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As I sit at my computer and listen to Baroque music while writing this post, it occurs to me that none of that stuff really matters. As long as I have a crew to lead, a ship to sail, and a compass to point to what I want most, I'm content.<br />
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How do you deal with unnecessary baggage? <br />
<br />Katherine Bonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14701961380138616355noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2018633413564074437.post-57653321084595769372012-11-26T07:15:00.002-06:002012-11-26T07:15:26.052-06:00Release Day! Sweet Gone South<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2OsgRcorMYi4dl6pfCIDw0VIciHkruygrggmMo5bqTPO_eRBCT7L5Hg5YKeFWTP5fp_9ll9P272P8K-EUHHv1Ew8kkYBz_Ma9FRNeYSDRqXFZlt4QrDkSSgl9a7H308JfAH7FJlH2Ums/s1600/Simple+Gone+South+Cover+-+Big.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2OsgRcorMYi4dl6pfCIDw0VIciHkruygrggmMo5bqTPO_eRBCT7L5Hg5YKeFWTP5fp_9ll9P272P8K-EUHHv1Ew8kkYBz_Ma9FRNeYSDRqXFZlt4QrDkSSgl9a7H308JfAH7FJlH2Ums/s400/Simple+Gone+South+Cover+-+Big.jpg" width="260" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">It's surreal!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Available from:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Sweet-Gone-South-ebook/dp/B009VM0QY8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1353935342&sr=8-1&keywords=sweet+gone+south">Amazon </a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.crimsonromance.com/new-release-romance-ebook/sweet-gone-south/">Crimson Romance</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">iTunes</span>Alicia Hunter Pace (aka Jean Hovey and Stephanie Jones)http://www.blogger.com/profile/13844329805282121486noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2018633413564074437.post-58104230289850699452012-11-23T05:00:00.000-06:002012-11-23T05:00:01.556-06:00RECIPE FRIDAY; BUFFALO CHICKEN CHEESE DIP<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbHzKNYMkBPsxrxcP6-1Z8VrEO9kxTTI5OdHPrONET-BXzHSburjDccHSw3OrJmm9nrFXngEIYgUzaQXBLdXDGABPsWto_Okc0c9q_ScJ4y545aPCjy5DILCSvDKub8BuZxEXLxMGFrtU/s1600/footballl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbHzKNYMkBPsxrxcP6-1Z8VrEO9kxTTI5OdHPrONET-BXzHSburjDccHSw3OrJmm9nrFXngEIYgUzaQXBLdXDGABPsWto_Okc0c9q_ScJ4y545aPCjy5DILCSvDKub8BuZxEXLxMGFrtU/s200/footballl.jpg" width="195" /></a></div>
As if we haven't eaten enough. We've had it all. Turkey, dressing, cranberry sauce (two kinds) corn pudding, mashed potatos, pineapple casserole, macaroni and cheese, green beans, squash casserole. pies, pies, pies.<br />
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I could go on. But the eating fest isn't over. It can't be until the the Thanksgiving football games are over. If you are like me, after eating all that comfort food, you like something a little spicy. If you are like me, after cooking all that comfort food you like something really easy. I recommend buying a rotisserie chicken instead of boiling your own--or maybe even use some leftover turkey. Hope you enjoy this and hope your team wins--unless they are between my team and what I want.<br />
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Roll Tide, Roll!!!!<br />
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<b><span style="color: black;">BUFFALO</span></b><b><span style="color: black;"> CHICKEN CHEESE DIP</span></b></div>
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<span style="color: black;">3 boneless skinless chicken breasts<br />
1 jar Marzetti's blue cheese or ranch dressing<span class="showforprint"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce mild<br />
1 8-oz.pkg. cream cheese softened</span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">2 cups shredded sharp cheddar
cheese</span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">Tabasco</span><span style="color: black;"> sauce (optional)</span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">Boil chicken until tender and chop finely. Mix together
dressing and Buffalo
sauce. Use Tabasco
sauce to fire it up to your desire. Spread cream cheese in a 9x13 baking dish.
Mix chicken with dressing. Then pour over chicken mixture over cream cheese
evenly. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Serve
with corn chips.</span></div>
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<br />Alicia Hunter Pace (aka Jean Hovey and Stephanie Jones)http://www.blogger.com/profile/13844329805282121486noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2018633413564074437.post-83172115797425615062012-11-22T05:00:00.000-06:002012-11-22T05:00:08.681-06:00<h2 style="text-align: center;">
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<![endif]--><span style="color: #cc0000;"><b><span style="background-color: white;"><i>From all of us under the tulip tree. . .</i></span><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></span></span></b></span></h2>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Happy <span style="font-size: x-large;">T</span>hanksgiving!</span></span></span></b></span></h2>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM1rm-txua5dd71TjNzbh3LcSqJq1F3kdJH9temsfw_BV-U9_CMC2Nnqz_uilEttyp5zCq9rIF3ocx6Atl6gZbceVNp_14gaL4W8mnK3lY0qWj7EbKMKXdPiraeGLP40bO4o4u1NeiNnGN/s1600/Tillman+Hill+Gazebo+2010+074.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM1rm-txua5dd71TjNzbh3LcSqJq1F3kdJH9temsfw_BV-U9_CMC2Nnqz_uilEttyp5zCq9rIF3ocx6Atl6gZbceVNp_14gaL4W8mnK3lY0qWj7EbKMKXdPiraeGLP40bO4o4u1NeiNnGN/s640/Tillman+Hill+Gazebo+2010+074.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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Lesia Flynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17961313800912097829noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2018633413564074437.post-48956189345253571532012-11-21T05:00:00.000-06:002012-11-21T05:00:10.058-06:00Thanksgiving Eve<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5WQreZUxeN0MM6ZJRXZBJxCJvdNQlnK6TdF3OPR1Obh-AvwjXwMNmfHK0aPeD9L-H4Naj0OGBOnw5ySp6iVkKMLrgJRka1Gib1yU0b4tRhoDyBEWRBjdokEe5Y8a4aiIakxlCPeYT1NvU/s1600/th_Pilgrims.gif" />It's that time of year again, Thanksgiving. I am not going to bore you with all the things that I am thankful for although there are lots of them! Instead I wanted to ask about everyone's favorite Thanksgiving traditions. In my family we have a huge meal that I like to call Carb-O-Rama. It's cornbread dressing, mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, sweet potato casserole, homemade rolls, English peas, corn,cranberry sauce, broccoli casserole, green beans, pinto beans and dressed eggs. Oh, and be sure to leave room for dessert- there will be pecan pie, sweet potato pie, chocolate cake, and banana pudding. Lord, help us all should be the prayer!</div>
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Thanksgiving is probably my favorite holiday. It's in the fall which is my favorite season. It is usually cool enough that I can wear cuddly clothes and there is football. Really what's not to love! I know a lot of people think of Thanksgiving as a holiday that just marks the beginning of the Christmas season, much like football season just means basketball season is almost here in Kentucky but that is not how I feel about it. I love Thanksgiving. </div>
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My love of Thanksgiving probably comes from all the years that my mamma's family got together at my granny's. My uncles and aunts would come home to Alabama and bring all of my cousins. We always had great fun! My mother's family is still more likely to gather at Thanksgiving than at Christmas. My mother loves to prepare a meal so that everyone has their favorite dish. Of course, at this point that means that there is too much food, but she says that is what the holidays are all about. </div>
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What is your favorite thing about Thanksgiving?</div>
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Stephanie Jones AKA Alicia Hunter Pacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03023631488715031414noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2018633413564074437.post-45324594461611593412012-11-20T05:00:00.000-06:002012-11-20T05:00:06.942-06:00The Goose is Getting Fat!"Thanksgiving is coming, the goose is getting fat. Please sir, put some money in the old man's hat. If you haven't got a penny, a ha'penny will do. If you haven't got a ha'penny, then God bless you..."<br />
<br />
Now don't laugh, my friends. I know this is a Muppet Christmas song. But it just appealed to me as I wrote this blog post. Because when you think about it, it fits. You've got the goose getting fat, a man putting out his hat and giving. Why not flip this to Thanksgiving? ;)<br />
<br />
There are a lot of people in need. Right now a local radio DJ, a fixture in our town, is sitting up on a cherry picker, enduring 48 hours of cold and the elements to help raise money or bikes for Toys for Tots, sponsored by the Marines. These bikes will be given to needy children who live in our area this Christmas. What a fabulous annual witness to our town! I'm amazed every time I drive by this awesome spectacle on my way to work. It truly is phenomenal.<br />
<br />
So what is the greatest gift of Thanksgiving? It's a celebration of survival. A joyous feast of the harvest signaling we'll be well fed, spiritually and physically. It's also a time to share that bounty with others less fortunate.<br />
<br />
What are you thankful for? I'm thankful for my family and friends. For God's grace and the freedoms I enjoy. For my debut book, and Jean and Stephanie's good fortune too! Their Crimson Romance debut releases in 7 days!<br />
<br />
So I leave you today with some quotes I found interesting:<br />
<br />
"Thanksgiving dinners take eighteen hours to prepare. They are consumed in twelves minutes. Half-times take twelve minutes. This is not coincidence." Erma Bombeck<br />
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"The truth is the Super Bowl long ago became more than just a football game. It's part of our culture like turkey at Thanksgiving and lights at Christmas, and like those holidays beyond their meaning, a factor in our economy." Bob Schieffer<br />
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"There is one day that is ours. Thanksgiving Day is the one day that is purely American." O. Henry<br />
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Blessings for a peaceful day of preparation and celebration!<br />
<br />
What are your plans for Thanksgiving? Are you cooking? Watching football? <br />
<br />Katherine <br />
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Katherine Bonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14701961380138616355noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2018633413564074437.post-80180934970774479702012-11-19T05:00:00.000-06:002012-11-19T09:23:29.596-06:00Steer Clear<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglrT3rDtFcMYeOSeSi6Cj95wkz5e7amsrrgU7XtrK3rv2DsfT_kR_dtFT_BAZa-P2XaW6RnfPP3r-1Y87gUqBTsxE2ajU2iRuseKVJQnDUiLQf-GS1LM53qPxNpIjP0zUbwzcEKCpppwoM/s1600/carol.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglrT3rDtFcMYeOSeSi6Cj95wkz5e7amsrrgU7XtrK3rv2DsfT_kR_dtFT_BAZa-P2XaW6RnfPP3r-1Y87gUqBTsxE2ajU2iRuseKVJQnDUiLQf-GS1LM53qPxNpIjP0zUbwzcEKCpppwoM/s320/carol.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
I do my best to not participate in Christmas on any level until after Thanksgiving. Oh, I know I have to do some stuff--like setting dates for parties and the like, but I don't even want to look at Christmas stuff until it's time.<br />
<br />
Well. I have had to do some shopping lately and, try as I might to evade, everywhere I turn, there it is. Right in my face. Noel and Merry, Merry.<br />
<br />
I have been reminded of things that send me screaming. <br />
<ul>
<li>Those round mouthed caroler figurines. </li>
<li>Blinking Christmas lights. </li>
<li>Josephs over the age of fifteen. </li>
<li>Lime green decorations. </li>
</ul>
What Christmas paraphernalia gets under your skin?Stephanie Jones AKA Alicia Hunter Pacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03023631488715031414noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2018633413564074437.post-55656203132703094692012-11-16T06:54:00.001-06:002012-11-16T06:54:36.527-06:00Recipe Friday Cranberry Sauce<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYaIXxXryuNaDvzRntO48MB03SaiT70dwJg-Rx3ZG1ZawV7hyphenhyphenlPrjuFh8kz6wV-q5FPNu_n4gbCwSkSEZk7bryCXRSFACbVjMAS_f_Oy9G9zFNXVe_6MH8QzFrACDHk8nJtc3TnRkyj_8/s1600/cranberries.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYaIXxXryuNaDvzRntO48MB03SaiT70dwJg-Rx3ZG1ZawV7hyphenhyphenlPrjuFh8kz6wV-q5FPNu_n4gbCwSkSEZk7bryCXRSFACbVjMAS_f_Oy9G9zFNXVe_6MH8QzFrACDHk8nJtc3TnRkyj_8/s400/cranberries.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
I am late this morning. Sorry. I was also a bad wife last night and served grilled cheese and canned soup for dinner. I even made him go to the store and pick out his own soup. <br />
<br />
But I am making marvelous book progress. I am not going to be one of those writters who lets the rest of her life go to the devil but I am still learning to make adjustments.<br />
<br />
I might be one of those writers who has repeated a recipe from a year or two ago. I wouldn't be surprised. It's one of my favorites and keeps forever in the 'fridge. I didn't check because I think it's worth repeating. <br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
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<br /></div>
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water, sugar, and brown sugar in a saucepan and mix well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bring to a boil over medium heat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Add cranberries.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Return to a boil.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cook for 10 minutes, stirring
occasionally.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Spoon into a bowl.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let cool to room temperature.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Add horseradish and mustard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mix well. Cover and chill.</span></div>
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with meat, on turkey sandwiches, or pour over Brie or cream cheese and serve
with crackers.</span></div>
Alicia Hunter Pace (aka Jean Hovey and Stephanie Jones)http://www.blogger.com/profile/13844329805282121486noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2018633413564074437.post-26784587023777712852012-11-15T05:00:00.000-06:002012-11-15T05:00:00.521-06:00I Coulda Had a Wha?<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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I’ve been to many readers/writers events now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can say I’m fairly comfortable with the
process of what’s expected of me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>(Insert insurance policy for all of what I just said becoming totally
and incurably false.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just sayin’.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And so on Saturday, it was really no hill for
me to step up to the plan and execute two events in two different towns in one
day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Right?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At least that’s what I told myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After the alarm snoozing off and on for over an hour, I finally
get up and run for the shower hollering for someone to make coffee.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Veezer stops me in my tracks to ask why I’m in
such a rush. “Because it’s your day, Sugar!” I say.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And then she assures me, after going over the
detailed schedule of events for her Regional Lego Robotics Competition, that I
am not needed there until the Awards Ceremony at 5pm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whew.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What
a lovely little planning executive I have there!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And so I slow down to have some coffee to
speed up again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
By 10:30 I had enjoyed a lovely quiet morning, showered and headed
out the door to take on the day with my HOD peeps, docs in hand, and an hour
and a half drive towards middle Alabama in front of me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s a great drive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I usually fill the car with music and sing my
heart out with no one to tell me to stop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And so I sing, sing, sing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Until
the road narrows to one lane and then comes to a complete stop. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Construction. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wha? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My
head spins around looking for answers like an owl on its perch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I just came down this road two days ago...there
was no construction then? I need gas for the car.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I was going to eat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By
11:15 there’s still no movement except for the whirling of the blue lights from
Mr. Copper’s car top letting everyone (namely, Me!) know they can’t take matters
into their own hands and take the shoulder of the road all the way to their destination.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Buggar.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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And that’s <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>how the day
went.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hurry up…slow down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Talk faster….hush up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gads!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>After two meetings with my peeps it finally dawned on me…<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I Coulda Had a V-8!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or at least a delegation party, which is what
I should’ve done when I found out I had two events on the same day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But all was well…I was traveling down the road again to the
other side of several mountains.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And that’s
precisely when the text came in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“We’re
heading to the Awards Ceremony.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Where
are you?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
An hour later I walked into the gym just in time to see the
second half of awards handed out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And
which one goes to my Veezer’s team, the Robotic Predators?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>First Place, Baby!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I missed the entire Nerd-fest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I got the picture!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Go Predators!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Woot!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Woot!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Robotic Predators go to State
Competitions in January.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I won’t be
missing that one!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m such a proud
Nerd-Momma!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>:D</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNh6YeXTJAcWtzJrSh9XLmKECZ4HvNFjf0Z_O9PSRfwMm8NVmI3OtfS4cN9jTfVlI0L1yGm-8ZCiG5mTNRD0YT0fXJrg-6zcC80XGJpmV1Dk5BQMsfQFSxrm2ts2TsR5WuUmWhmcYT5vX4/s1600/Lego+Robotics+Regional+Champs+2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNh6YeXTJAcWtzJrSh9XLmKECZ4HvNFjf0Z_O9PSRfwMm8NVmI3OtfS4cN9jTfVlI0L1yGm-8ZCiG5mTNRD0YT0fXJrg-6zcC80XGJpmV1Dk5BQMsfQFSxrm2ts2TsR5WuUmWhmcYT5vX4/s400/Lego+Robotics+Regional+Champs+2012.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Inside my mind I can be in two places at one time. I can do a Triple Sow Cow (Salchow) in there, too! Can you?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Lesia Flynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17961313800912097829noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2018633413564074437.post-77592406029348910962012-11-14T05:00:00.000-06:002012-11-14T05:00:10.186-06:00Luddite No More<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0tR7Jahkpkiz8itB53cV8sInodToh3elHx_vyRZyuaU29Vp7K9OCLC42cmkPn8-iKyPJG8x0oJKpUGh4QB-GNdMBlP2BauzN1_lBkicwApxPNc1SogQo4qnqDN09JlcmF4tYOqoCFgYSF/s1600/plotter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0tR7Jahkpkiz8itB53cV8sInodToh3elHx_vyRZyuaU29Vp7K9OCLC42cmkPn8-iKyPJG8x0oJKpUGh4QB-GNdMBlP2BauzN1_lBkicwApxPNc1SogQo4qnqDN09JlcmF4tYOqoCFgYSF/s1600/plotter.jpg" /></a></div>
I realized yesterday that I had somehow without my knowledge had a change of perspective in my life...I am a Luddite no more. For those of you who aren't familiar with the term, a Luddite is someone who is resistant to change, especially change that is brought about by evolving technology.<br />
<br />
The term came to be in the 1800's when the Industrial Revolution began in England. Many people felt that the new factory machines would replace humans in the manufacturing process and that there would be wide-spread unemployment which would lead to all kinds of problems for the nation.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjydtI7w1vDXWHf9e1b3CabEVMA7hL882iahsXTu_8e8RqrEmOFrBBQamPmOx67Ukkt3VOxTDenmk2JFH5Gtdo_kesZ3boVs2X2otvCwNiB9TKnhevp8kIeOZ8NxFxacgEuUz7BPMY7qRB5/s1600/170px-Luddite.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjydtI7w1vDXWHf9e1b3CabEVMA7hL882iahsXTu_8e8RqrEmOFrBBQamPmOx67Ukkt3VOxTDenmk2JFH5Gtdo_kesZ3boVs2X2otvCwNiB9TKnhevp8kIeOZ8NxFxacgEuUz7BPMY7qRB5/s1600/170px-Luddite.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ned Ludd</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The movement was named after Ned Ludd who was reported to have smashed some stocking making looms and started much of the actual revolt. <span id="goog_42064590"></span><span id="goog_42064591"></span><br />
<br />
Precious Angel's daddy is who originally called me a Luddite because I was always exploding computers and belly-aching (okay, whining) about all the troubles I had with technology. I felt it added a lot of stress to my life that I just didn't need.<br />
<br />
Slowly, slowly this has changed. This weekend as I was piled up on my bed on top of my made up bed, I realized that I had embraced using technology to a huge extent. <br />
<br />
There I sat. I was actually working on the lap-top while I looked up email on an I-pad to quote in the document on my computer. I was texting with Pantster about our new website and had my Kindle on the charger. Needless to say it was an epiphany. Somehow without realizing it I had lost my Luddite status.<br />
<br />
What is your favorite kind of technology?<br />
<br />Stephanie Jones AKA Alicia Hunter Pacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03023631488715031414noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2018633413564074437.post-38928573480390982832012-11-13T05:00:00.000-06:002012-11-13T05:00:10.682-06:00A Hot Cuppa of Time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp7e_a457OCRlJbstMlJrxOaEWk1_7STCThlrqO9mGrOd5u-cQ0nZxGWEIQ6523y7_Alhbo2C_P4rf7Y8_5TcMRH0mJ3s9sXpoRchOo8YtMfJXbOOnGmcveNZKhicJQ7T5CuwNzPQ-db63/s1600/hot+chocolate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp7e_a457OCRlJbstMlJrxOaEWk1_7STCThlrqO9mGrOd5u-cQ0nZxGWEIQ6523y7_Alhbo2C_P4rf7Y8_5TcMRH0mJ3s9sXpoRchOo8YtMfJXbOOnGmcveNZKhicJQ7T5CuwNzPQ-db63/s1600/hot+chocolate.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
There's nothing like a snuggly blanket, a good book and a cup of hot tea or hot chocolate when the weather turns cold. Sharing a quiet moment with the necessities makes life worth while, don't you agree? I've been thinking about this very thing while our friends in the northeast have been affected by power outages and Sandy's wrath. (Sending prayer for toasty goodness to our friends up north!)<br />
<br />
Life gets so hectic sometimes that we often forget the little things in life that make life worth living. We start off the year welcoming it in with wide expectant arms and a to-do list a mile long. Valentine's Day arrives and we're toasting the loves of our lives. Fast forward to Easter and peeps overflowing baskets of treats. Memorial Day arrives with a nod to our fallen heroes. July 4th celebrates our quest for freedom. On Veteran's Day we thank those who've given us the opportunity to grab that snuggly blanket, sit still, and enjoy our freedoms. (Special thanks to my rogue who served our nation for 22 1/2 years, my two sons and nephew!) Then on Thanksgiving we're thankful for all the many gifts in our lives until Christmas and New Year's Eve arrives and we start it all again.<br />
<br />
Though we enjoy all these moments, we cannot help but be overwhelmed at times. And while the world gears up for Black Friday, which means, as commericials attest, that the mad holiday crush is almost upon us again, we make lists and plan. And as is typical with each holiday season, we tend to get caught up in the day to day grind without taking time to recharge batteries or enjoy the little things... like time spent with ourselves.<br />
<br />
So in honor of enjoying the simple life and getting cozy with a book, I want to share one of my ultimate favorite recipes for something that is sure to fix you right up<span style="font-family: "Bodoni MT Condensed","serif";">— </span>my family's Hot Chocolate recipe. <br />
<br />
<u>Hot Chocolate Mix</u><br />
<br />
1 lb. confectioner's sugar<br />
8 quarts powdered milk<br />
2 cups regular sugar<br />
1 lb. Coffeemate<br />
1 2 lb. box of Nestle's Quick or Hershey's Instant<br />
Marshmellows (opt)<br />
<br />
Mix together and put into containers. Use 2-3 heaping Tbsp.'s per cup and hot water.<br />
<br />
This makes a LOT of hot chocolate mix, so be sure to have some ziplock containers or pretty sealed jars at hand. <br />
<br />
From my house to yours, may you all experience the snuggly comfort of a soft blanket and a good story. Stay warm!<br />
<br />
Katherine<br />
Duke by Day, Rogue by Night <em>Available Now</em><br />
<a href="http://www.katherinebone.com/">www.katherinebone.com</a><br />
<br />
Katherine Bonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14701961380138616355noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2018633413564074437.post-53420768988596227812012-11-12T05:00:00.000-06:002012-11-12T05:00:18.801-06:00Thanks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgauvdzxo9xpcBywU_qXPduCFx4zncp-suHLqEMegR2AoKf6nuCWZK2L6tI8m8tVERPnaS0OBX-_DjRwZ7Z8kF_nF1MwvIACCjcb-ZbzplAr6OMolp4_h-C7gLJFCKww4joJv3LsD-XhrI/s1600/vet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgauvdzxo9xpcBywU_qXPduCFx4zncp-suHLqEMegR2AoKf6nuCWZK2L6tI8m8tVERPnaS0OBX-_DjRwZ7Z8kF_nF1MwvIACCjcb-ZbzplAr6OMolp4_h-C7gLJFCKww4joJv3LsD-XhrI/s400/vet.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Can't say it enough; couldn't mean it any more.</span> Alicia Hunter Pace (aka Jean Hovey and Stephanie Jones)http://www.blogger.com/profile/13844329805282121486noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2018633413564074437.post-52574937928681056282012-11-09T05:00:00.000-06:002012-11-09T06:59:38.526-06:00Recipe Friday: Baked Pancake Squares<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_0FOcfkw0HoKVJSwwt6pMj1mCoOpDyFYaz8nliUKOlkNuOLzNqKxwQ-8iA-Yi3g6qy2SfPBnHKuc3s9kTi-sLmClBN4Lnqr6uCVapbxNUos7hNp3gRiZSZpH60-d7rKJjStN2rlH63LQ/s1600/maple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_0FOcfkw0HoKVJSwwt6pMj1mCoOpDyFYaz8nliUKOlkNuOLzNqKxwQ-8iA-Yi3g6qy2SfPBnHKuc3s9kTi-sLmClBN4Lnqr6uCVapbxNUos7hNp3gRiZSZpH60-d7rKJjStN2rlH63LQ/s320/maple.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
First, I want to say, I have given you a picture of a maple leaf instead of a picture of a leaf shaped bottle of maple syrup like I wanted to. See, here's the thing. Photobucket is my go to site for free images. Except when I went there today, it was all different and I could not cope. When I went to other supposedly free sites, they kept tricking me and wanting me to pay $19. for that bottle of syrup. Now, I love you all here but that is not happening. So then I did download a picture of the bottle I wanted. But I wasn't really sure if I was supposed to have it for free because it had a swirly thing in the middle. I could have used it but I am not into stealing someone's stuff. Also, the internet does not owe me free syrup. <br />
<br />
So I know this picture was free. Enjoy it. Or not. Either way this is a good recipe for days when you don't feel like taking the trouble to make those wonderful pancakes that Lesia posted about yesterday.<br />
<br />
I call them Lazy Pancakes. <br />
<br />
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<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
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<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">Baked
Pancake Squares</span></div>
<div style="margin-left: .5in; text-indent: -.5in;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>3/4 cup milk<br />
2 T. melted butter<br />
1 large egg<br />
1 T. sugar<br />
1 cup flour<br />
2 t. baking powder<br />
1/4 t. salt</div>
<div style="margin-left: .5in; text-indent: -.5in;">
<br /></div>
Preheat oven to 350°. Lightly grease an 8×8 baking dish. In a large mixing
bowl, beat together milk, butter and egg. Add sugar, then gradually beat the
flour in. Carefully stir in the baking powder and salt. Pour batter into
prepared pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Serves 4-6.Alicia Hunter Pace (aka Jean Hovey and Stephanie Jones)http://www.blogger.com/profile/13844329805282121486noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2018633413564074437.post-59680518139579647132012-11-08T05:00:00.000-06:002012-11-08T05:00:00.478-06:00Slow...Autumnal....Yum? Uh-huh...Yes it is!<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
There’s something about an autumnal Saturday morning with no
place to be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Children sleep in, coffee
brews, lounging occurs…perhaps a bit of reading is done?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And then at some point even the chill in the air prompts you to feed the
masses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But what shall you feed
them?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mmmm….Yum! of course!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And there’s nothing I know of better than the
deliciousness below!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Enjoy, my friends!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s the best flavor I can offer up to a spectacular
fall lounge-fest!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now I know yo’ momma
didn’t serve you this, chile!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Pumpkin Pancakes with Maple Pecan Syrup</b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Pancake Batter</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
2c flour</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
2T Brown sugar</div>
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1T baking powder</div>
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1 ¼ t pumpkin spice</div>
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1t salt</div>
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½ c pure pumpkin puree</div>
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1 large egg</div>
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2T vegetable oil</div>
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<br /></div>
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Combine dry ingredients.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In a separate bowl, combine milk, egg,
pumpkin and oil.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Add the flour mixture and
stir just until moistened.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The batter
may be a bit lumpy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s okay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cook as you would other pancakes.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Maple Pecan Syrup </b></div>
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1c maple syrup</div>
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1 ¼ c pure pumpkin puree</div>
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¼ c chopped pecans</div>
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¼ t cinnamon</div>
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<br /></div>
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Heat ingredients in a small saucepan until warm.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Lagniappe</i></b></div>
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I like the flavor that roasted pecans give to this sauce rather
than just chopping raw ones in and calling them enough.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They’re not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>To me anyway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also, this sauce <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">begs</i> to be poured over other things too….like
cheesecake, vanilla ice cream, waffles, or whatever you can imagine it on!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s Yum!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Uh-huh.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes it is……</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
By the way, you better cook up a pound or two of bacon to go with that. It's the right thing to do. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What’s your favorite thing to do on a slow, cold, Saturday
morning in fall?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
Lesia Flynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17961313800912097829noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2018633413564074437.post-43097376057476899232012-11-07T05:00:00.000-06:002012-11-07T05:00:03.158-06:00Roadtrip Anyone?<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq_G-RF-XaZXwG4SXLElOzFuayKjeGC8qKD0kqJnUeLXe5eGtKV5Wj7Eg2jzvCvCS2eKrQYjdm6ISkJBTzkpst3BmIzaaLL17vKwTtrqyyMSTWKbPpvBtTQ11JVkljMT8dI1PkPWBipJu_/s1600/plotter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq_G-RF-XaZXwG4SXLElOzFuayKjeGC8qKD0kqJnUeLXe5eGtKV5Wj7Eg2jzvCvCS2eKrQYjdm6ISkJBTzkpst3BmIzaaLL17vKwTtrqyyMSTWKbPpvBtTQ11JVkljMT8dI1PkPWBipJu_/s200/plotter.jpg" width="200" /></a></span>Lately I have been on the road a lot. It has been for some good fun things like the release party for Katherine Bone and the fantastic Southern Magic Readers' Luncheon. I have really enjoyed visiting with fellow authors, seeing old friends, and making new ones.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq_G-RF-XaZXwG4SXLElOzFuayKjeGC8qKD0kqJnUeLXe5eGtKV5Wj7Eg2jzvCvCS2eKrQYjdm6ISkJBTzkpst3BmIzaaLL17vKwTtrqyyMSTWKbPpvBtTQ11JVkljMT8dI1PkPWBipJu_/s1600/plotter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<div>
All of this time in the car has gotten me to thinking about roadtrips...So what is your favorite road trip?</div>
<div>
<div>
<div>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Stephanie Jones AKA Alicia Hunter Pacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03023631488715031414noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2018633413564074437.post-35069317497410029022012-11-06T05:00:00.000-06:002012-11-06T05:00:14.437-06:00Quilt the Book<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqrS7FgRhF7NPwl7deevqwWjDt9rv8x8aukasG2LJzu9YzkE2PNQllaPQx0kKmJ7wsFYYhV2b8R94BXWGwx0-oBAfN_VOwmnh7vV7fvjnb51gDHNd42mqyNzoWlYVKsw8orfBicWnx4DX5/s1600/quilts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqrS7FgRhF7NPwl7deevqwWjDt9rv8x8aukasG2LJzu9YzkE2PNQllaPQx0kKmJ7wsFYYhV2b8R94BXWGwx0-oBAfN_VOwmnh7vV7fvjnb51gDHNd42mqyNzoWlYVKsw8orfBicWnx4DX5/s1600/quilts.jpg" /></a></div>
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I signed up for an online class called Quilting 101- Patchworking the Perfect Plot by Suzanne Johnson. The class started weeks ago while I was preparing for my book launch, but I'm still eager to dive in to the lessons and do them even though I couldn't participate along with the class. The opportunity to take this class got me pondering how long it's been since I actually quilted a quilt. (Like some stories I've written, I do have some unfinished quilts waiting in line for my attention.)<br />
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Anyone who has been in my home has seen what quilts mean to me and how I adore them. They are my passion, my pass-time.<br />
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Yes, I'm a quilter. There's something about cutting out shapes of different prints and textures and sewing them all together. I've got quilts hung on my walls. Quilts draped over beds. I've made quilts as gifts. Taught quilting classes. I LOVE quilts! (Though I still haven't made the most coveted quilt of all<span style="font-family: "Bodoni MT Condensed","serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">— <span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">the Amish quilt, deep winter colors set against black</span>.)</span></span><br />
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Many years ago, when LTC was stationed at Fort Leavenworth, it was always a boon to visit a quilting store that I loved, located in Osage, Kansas. I have to admit I never got to Paduka, KY, to visit the Quilting Museum there. That had been one of my goals. But LTC took me to Keepsake Quilting in New Hampshire years ago. Keepsake Quilting is a fabulous store where everything is quilted or catered to quilting. In fact, I've been getting their catalogue for years and flipping through the pages wishing I had more time and my fingers were nimble enough to quilt those tiny stitches again.<br />
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But I digress. Why? Nothing we do is for nothing. <br />
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You see, my love of quilting also prepared me for piecing together characters and plots, conflict and motivation, goals and resolutions in my writing. Consistent stitches reflect the overall theme that must be weighed against every essence of story structure, as well as every day I sit and type at the keyboard. Perfectly squared edges or rounded borders have to fit their partner pieces in order to complete the overall design. Color, theme, and texture vs character motivation and external and internal conflict provide the meat of the piece, whether in a story or a quilt.<br />
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Doesn't that give you the warm fuzzies?<br />
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We live our lives, not realizing what will feed into our passion for writing. Everything we see, everything we do or say, becomes a piece in the quilt or story that will complete the whole. We are the result of our environment. We are the product of our experiences. Without the pieces we attain, we cannot tap into the emotion and intensity a character needs in order to please our final goal... readers.<br />
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Life is a puzzle and we are each a piece that benefits the whole. And whether we quilt or write, we're in charge of how that puzzle is completed and resolved.<br />
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Do you like to put together puzzles? Have you ever associated writing with quilting? And if you were a quilter, what color theme would you choose?<br />
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Katherine <br />
<a href="http://www.katherinebone.com/">www.katherinebone.com</a><br />
Duke by Day, Rogue by Night <em>Available now at Crimson Romance</em><br />
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<br />Katherine Bonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14701961380138616355noreply@blogger.com6