Famous Quote for the Week

"What you get by achieving your goals is not as important as what you become by achieving your goals."

- Zig Ziglar

Merry Christmas

Have a wonderful day and a great new year,

Tina

Famous Quote

"Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever."


Gandhi

HWG Christmas Party

Saturday, I attended Heartland Writer's Group Christmas Party. We had a fun time in the sun.

Instead of the normal Christmas attire we celebrated a beach read and got out our grass skirts and sunscreen. We exchanged books that are special to us. We all had a great time and rediscovered the joy of writing.

Happy Holidays to all,

Tina

Benjamin's Quote

"Certainty?

In this world nothing is certain but death and taxes."

See taxes aren't so bad after all,

Tina

White Elephant Exchange

Don't want to over spent - try a white elephant exchange with your friends.

Pick out something in your house that you've never use and wrap it up to exchange. A fun way to see what others have in their closet and it's a great way to keep cost down while still having a good time.

The holidays are not about the gifts that you receive but the family and friends that you love.

Tina

Benjamin's Quote for the Week

"By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail."

Here's to success.

Tina

De-Stressing the Holidays - Christmas Cards

1. Do Christmas cards early.
2. Save money by writing up a letter instead of the traditional card. This way everyone learns more about what's going on in your world and you save money too.
3. Do a few cards a night 5 or 10 until their all done.
4. If you put the addresses into the computer you can print them out on labels and avoid having to write them all out.
5. Or consider sending out a Christmas email and not sending cards at all.

And if you find you don't have time to send cards. Change to sending out Easter cards instead. You still keep in touch with love ones and you'll have more time to enjoy Christmas.

Tina

Christmas Cheer

Don't stress the holidays - If the tree doesn't get trimmed or extra cookies don't get baked, does it really matter?

Take time to enjoy what's important and the rest will take care of itself.

Tina

Question of the Week - College Football

If lower football divisions can have playoffs, why can't the BCS?

And the argument about them not making as much money is insane. It could add games to the current system and they could still bowls for the teams that didn't make it into the play-off.

So what's the really reason for them not having a playoff?

Just wondering,

Tina

Benjamin Franklin Quote

"An investment in knowledge pays the best interest."

Have an awesome week,

Tina

In Print - Mating Rituals

Now Available in Print

at Amazon.



www.amazon.com

Tina

Happy Thanksgiving

May today be spent with the people you love,


Tina

Tracie's Sausage Dip

A recipe from the 2008 recipe book.

1 pound Owens sausage (mild or hot, you decide)
3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese
1 can Ro*Tel (chopped peppers and tomatoes, mild or hot)

Brown sausage in skillet. Drain fat when sausage is completely cooked. In saucepan melt cheese and Ro*Tel together. When cream cheese is melted add sausage. Blend together. Serve warm with Doritos or other chips.

Carol Braswell

When the Past Came Back published by The Wild Rose Press





www.carolbraswell.com

Thought for the day

RESPECT - A little thing with big meaning.


Have an awesome day,
Tina

Free Ebook Cookbook

Check out the new cookbook at The Wild Rose Press.


There are lots of recipes from very talented writers.
You can download it free from their site or buy the book.

www.thewildrosepress.com

Have a wonderful Holiday season,

Tina

Book Site

Hey, did you hear that SingleTitles.com has a whole new look? They have hundreds of book reviews, interviews, and lots of great excerpts. Plus, they’re now featuring thrillers and mysteries.

Check ‘em out at http://www.singletitles.com/.


Tina

Class on Rewriting

Saturday, I taught a class at the Heartland Writers RWA meeting.

Rewriting is a task all writers must endure. But it can eat up hours of time, but is well worth the endeavor if it helps sell the manuscript.

Thanks everyone at HWG for giving me a chance to share what I've learned.

You guys are the best,

Tina

Be Kind

The noblest revenge is to forgive. - Anonymous

Have a great day,
Tina

Recipes

Hi everyone,

With the holiday season, come up. I thought I would post a few of my favorite recipes over the next few weeks.

My publisher the Wild Rose Press is also coming out with their annual cookbook.

You can download it for free. I'll let you know when it is available.

Tina

Easy Fudge

1 (8 oz.) semi-sweet chocolate bits
1 (14 oz.) can Eagle Brand milk
Dash of salt
1/2 to 1 c. nuts
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla

Melt bits in milk over low heat, remove from heat and add nuts and vanilla. Spread in lightly buttered 9 inch pan; chill until firm, cut.
Remove from pan. Store at room temperature.
Better after 24 hours.
Have a great day,

Tina

Patience

A handful of patience is worth more than a bushel of brains. -Dutch Proverb



Tina

Last Golf Outing for the Year

The golfing season in Nebraska is probably over.

Mike and I managed to get in nine holes this past week. We enjoyed a beautiful day, but with all the leaves on the ground we lost a number of balls. Can't say we played that well either but we had fun.

Hope you can get one more round in before it gets cold in your neck of the woods.

Have fun,

Tina

Today Quote

True happiness is not made in getting something. True happiness is becoming something. This can be done by being committed to lofty goals. We cannot become something without commitment. -Ashton

Tina

Thought of the day

We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars. -Oscar Wilde

Tina

Review for Youthful Temptations

Youthful Temptations is about a couple finding love and overcoming stereotypes. We see that we all have baggage, it’s a part of us, and those that love us don’t mind the load we carry. Awesome story, I really enjoyed Youthful Temptations.

Reviewed by Raine at Joyfully Reviewed.

To read the whole review click on the link.
http://joyfullyreviewed.com/reviews/Oct09/youthfultemptations.TG.html

Thank you, Raine, for a great review.

Tina Gayle

Thoughts of Love

One man all by himself is nothing. Two people who belong together make a world. -- Hans Margolius

I have to admit my husband is a big part of my world.

Tina

Quote of the Day

Success usually comes to those who are too busy to be looking for it.

— Henry David Thoreau


From the following website.

alottoolbars.com

The Dawn of Fall

Cold Weather is coming and the wind is changing.

Time to switch out the clothes and settle in for the winter.

It can also be a time to re-evaluate your goals and see if you are on track to where you want to be by the end of the year.

I have a short story I'm trying to get done and then I need to get going on a series I've been planning all year.

Guess I better get my rear in gear and get-her-done.

Tina

Reaching Your Destination

The journey of a thousand miles
starts with a single step.

Chinese Proverb.

Even once you're on the path some steps are harder than other and the need to rest can claim us. Stop take a breath and continue. As long as you keep moving forward you will reach your destination.

Have a wonderful week,

Tina

A Casual Comment

How many times has a friend or co-worker suggested you try something?

Your answer, "Sure, I plan on doing that, but today I’m just too busy."

Yet, one day for no reason, you don’t put it off. You go to the gym and meet a handsome hunk on the way inside the building.

"Never happen," you say, and you know it can’t happen to you.

But what happens when it does?

I have a friend that made such a casual comment to me.

"Hey, Tina. There’s this great publisher that might like your story. Why don’t you send it in?"

Now, I could have put it off. Said the timing wasn’t right.

I didn’t. I took a chance.

Guess what?

It paid off. I sold my first book.

Never happen to you.

I can’t say.

Just don’t let the undertow of despair wash away the waves of hope that come your way.

Tina

Speak

The courage to speak must be matched
by the wisdom to listen.

Well-timed silence
hat more eloquence than speech.

M.T. Tupper


A skill I'm still struggling to master.

Have a wonderful week,

Tina

Fitting In

This may sound like a strange topic for a person over forty, but if you think about it, we all want to fit in one way or another.

Some of us go to a job outside our homes where we have to get along with a grumpy receptionist or deal with a knit-picking boss. We shares our woes of our imperfect job with a friend, someone who makes us feel that we’re not alone on those days when we feel out of sync with our co-workers.

In that respect, I don’t have to worry. You see I write. There’s no one around when I write. It’s a solitary endeavor, which would make one think I’m home free, in paradise, away from the annoying people of the outside world.

Wrong! I get lonely. I have this insatiable desire to talk, and talk, and talk some more. It’s a terrible habit I can’t seem to break.

And what do I want to talk about?

Writing, it’s kind of a passion for me.

Yeah? Well, what about your family? They’re interested, right?

Not when you are a romance writer and a mother of two teenage boys. World of War Craft and video games, karate and fencing moves; these are the topics of choice in my house.

So where are my comrades, the people to whom I can connect?

Lost, I thought, in a world of their own design, stuck behind their desk, in their office, on a street far, far away in another galaxy.

So I prepared myself for the journey and scouted out my local library. A critique group was forming of local writers. I joined right in, ready to share my heart. My enthusiasm dimmed quickly when I discovered that the other writers didn’t exactly share my passion for romantic novels.

Still I went; searching for other places my compatriots might be hiding. A local community class was an alternative I looked into. And it worked for a short time but again, with a wide range of interests and different genres, I didn’t feel at home. But I was lucky enough to be given a name of a group that seemed to be what I wanted.

Romance Writers of America had a local chapter not far from my house, and they met once a month. They didn’t require a secret handshake to join, but I must say when I walked into that first meeting, I was leery.

Would this be the right place for me? Would I be accepted?

The lady that took my money at the door, smiled at me, was even friendly. But then again, that was her job, she wanted my money. She suggested I attend the ask-an-author session being held across the hall.

The published author would answer any question I had, she said.

Right, I thought, like they’re going to talk to me, an unpublished nobody.

To my surprise, they did.

Then they walked into the RWA meeting with me, sat down in the same room with me, and treated me like an equal. To my happy surprise, no one called me out for being a wanna-be, a bad pretender, a no name author.

Well, as you can guess, I found my home. The ladies and men in the group welcomed me each time I attended a meeting. They didn’t scoff at my stupid questions, but instead told me things I needed to know. They supported my passion with cheers of encouragement.

I made friends. I became involved. With their help and support, I changed.

And now that I have my first contract, I know I will find the help I need to take me to the next level.

Thank you everyone at Heartland Writers Group for the beautiful ripples you’ve made in my life.

A Birthday Story

Some might look at this cake and laugh. It's not perfect. No expert cook baked it. But the love inside is much greater, which to me makes it the best cake ever.

My husband and I watch a lot of food network. The cake decorating show are some of our favorite. We've talked many times about getting the recipe for fondant. It has to be hard, if the chef use it right?

Well, I can't say, but my husband can. He found the recipe on the internet and decide to give it a try for my birthday.

Not a simple task, he spend hours mixing the recipe together and rolling out the dough. What you see is the time it takes to create a beautful example of what a man will do for the woman he loves.

A master piece in my eyes, I am very blessed to be married to such an awesome guy. Even if he drives me crazy at times.

And the flowers are a gift from my son. Hope when your birthday comes around, it's as good for you.

Tina

Inspiration

A misty morning
does not signify
a cloudy day.

Ancient Proverb.

Welcome Lorhainne Eckhardt

Thank you for spotting by and answering the question.

Why do you write?

This is both an easy and a difficult topic to blog about. I write, as it is a tool for me to express myself. I see a story in events that exist and arise from situations around me. Out of that comes a need to put on paper that idea that transforms itself into a story so I can share with others. I internalize a lot. When I am asked to verbally recount a story, or a situation, I actually find it quite difficult. I immediately become tongue-tied and find that gift that many people have to verbally communicate their ideas, clear and concise to a group of people, does not exist within me.

Except if you give me time, pen and paper to put those ideas down in writing, something else happens. The ability to transpose those ideas become clear and distinct as my own individual style appears.
I am a prolific writer. I include without hesitation controversial and moral dilemmas within my novels. It is actually something that drives me. I believe we all have lessons to learn in life. Once we experience them, why not share them with others?

So all these dilemmas, crisis, controversies, that go on around me, whether it’s with friends, family, in the community and local news. The story appears and when I sit down to write the premise, it is transformed into a story, along with the characters that come to life to retell it, to share with my readers the knowledge I have gained.

Let's learn a little about Lorhainne's book.


Blurb: The Captain’s Lady

Captain Eric Hamilton is a powerful force in the U.S. Navy, having earned himself a reputation of being a hard-nosed chauvinist. He’s commander of the USS Larsen, a destroyer, currently deployed in the Persian Gulf during Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Abby Carlton has just escaped from the man who held her captive for a year. Abducted while travelling in Paris, she was given to an Arab man as a gift, until one night she makes her desperate escape.

While on patrol one morning Captain Eric Hamilton discovers a dinghy floating aimlessly. Abby is found, battered and in an advanced state of pregnancy, lying in the bottom of the dinghy. From the moment she lay on the deck of his ship her innocence finds a way to penetrate his hardened heart. But time is running out. Eric is falsely accused of sexual assault and the CIA wants Abby and the baby for bait to flush out her captor.


Excerpt: The Captain’s Lady

“We have no reports of a ship in distress in the area, Captain.”

“What about fishing boats?”

“No, sir, no reports.”

Looking once more at his first officer, Eric issued curt orders, the harshness grating in his voice. “Send a rescue team to check it out.”

Handing the binoculars off to one of the crew members, he strode with determination off the bridge, heading directly to the ship’s launch. His well-trained crew scurried about. Joe appeared at his side and they watched from the rail as the small rigid hull sped off in the direction of the dinghy. His pulse rose and the dampness on his back soaked through his short-sleeved shirt.

“So what do you think?” Joe leaned on the rail, uncertainty clear in the crinkle of his brows.

“Don’t know, dammit.” Eric focused on the scene unfolding in the distance. Again he commandeered the binoculars from Joe and scrutinized the three-man team approaching, then securing the boat to the dinghy.

His senses were keen; over the years, he’d learned to trust them. The uneasiness that crept its way into his gut, the hairs now standing up on the back of his neck and the racing of his heart; this unshakable feeling was telling him that things were about to change—drastically. Puzzled, he felt the mounting frustration build inside, along with something else he could not quite put his finger on. Shaking his head, he realized it was not a feeling of dread.

The crackle of the radio interrupted his speculation. A voice from the rescue team came over the line. “There’s someone in here, a woman, and she’s in bad shape.”

Thank Lorhainne for stopping by.

Tina

Winding Down

Mike and I hit the last of the wine trail. We visited the last two wineries on the list and are now settling down for fall.

First, we drove out to Greeley, Ne and visited the grave site of Mike's grandmother, then we down to Miletta Vista Winery.

Sitting on a hill, the winery has a great view of the countryside. Check out some of the pictures of the view.

Next, we took hwy. 92 to Prairie Creek Winery. The best part about the trip was talking to the owner. Not only does he grow grapes, but has fields of corn too. A young man, he enjoys creating wine and farming.

So if you're ever in Nebraska check them out and have a great week.

Miletta Vista Winery
Prairie Creek Winery


Tina

The Way to Happiness

Keep your heart free from hate,
Your mind from worry...
live simply...
expect little...
give much...

Sound so easy yet its a constant battle to follow these simple instructions.

Have a wonderful week,

Tina

Trolls

I am not a funny person but when I see something that is, I like to pass it on. This is Marianne Donley’s response to people who've had problems with their computer. I like to bring it out occassionally and reread it. It brightens my day.

"Computers, Yahoo! and AOL are run by evil little green male trolls --all
about 15 years old. They live inside your machines. Some times the trolls do
what you ask them to do. Sometimes they fold their little troll arms and
shake their little troll heads and say, "Nope. Not doing that. You can't make
me. Nanner. Nanner. Nanner."

Now, if you have a larger male person come in to your office and he does the
VERY SAME THING to the computer that you have been doing for the last 10
hours, the little evil green trolls get afraid. Frighten trolls do what they
are told. Then your larger male person gets a smug look on his face and you go off to plan another mystery in which large male people die in very painful ways. "

Hope it helps you see the funny side of computer problems and write your next thriller.

Tina

Prairie Land Nebraska Wineries

Still on the wine trail of Nebraska, Saturday, Mike and I visited three wineries.

First, Five Trails Winery tasting room located in Paxton, Ne is right off I 80. It can be an easy stop on your way to Colorado. We bought a nice white wine.

Next, we headed to Feather River Vineyard. Down a gravel road and around several bends, the winery offered a great place for a wedding or a reception.

The last place we visited was Mac's Creek. They had a number of wines that we enjoyed. In Lexington, Ne, the winery isn't a long way off I 80 and worth the trip.

Check them out.

5 Trails Winery
Feather River Winery
Mac's Creek Winery

Tina

Love

Love doesn't make the world go round,
but it makes the ride worthwhile.

Always nice to travel with friends.

Tina

Attitude

People can alter their lives

by altering their attitudes.


This is an Auburn war eagle. Education is a great way to spread your wings and open your mind.

Tina

Nebraska Wineries

Check out your local wineries.

Living in Nebraska, I've discovered a number of wonderful vineyards that produce some very good wines.

My husband and I stopped by the Superior Estate winery not to long ago. They have a very nice white wine made from the Cayuga grapes.

Check out their site. Superior Estates Winery

Also this past weekend, we took a trip down to Lincoln to check out the Windcrest Winery and the new winery of WunderRosa.

I enjoyed talking to the owners at both places.

Windcrest has a fruity cherry wine, made from cherries grown on their property and a large offering of different wines. They are going to be picking their wines here soon if you want to joy in on the fun just contact them.

WunderRosa Winery has only four different wines at the moment, but unfortunately, they received some wind damage to a part of their vineyard which is going to limit their production for this year.

Check them out and have a great week.
WindCrest Winery
WunderRosa Winery






Tina

Mating Rituals Released this Friday

Here is an excerpt to peak your interest.


Staring straight ahead, Marohka Taunton avoided eye contact with every man she passed. Moving along the edge of the dance floor, she wove her way back and forth across the assigned path. Her steps, jerky and clumsy, she hid her natural smooth gait. No man, in his right mind, craved an ungraceful wife. At least, she hoped not.

With the stairs a few steps ahead, she tasted victory and allowed herself a sigh of relief. "Thank goodness."

A masculine voice in front of her chuckled. "It’s not over yet, princess."

Marohka paused to inspect the stranger. The laughter reflected in his warm brown eyes—surprised, the intelligent focus—intrigued, and the dark spark of interest—captivated.
A foreign response slithered through her chest. Butterflies fluttered in her stomach. Her heartbeat rang in her ears. Her hands turned clammy. Awareness of the man claimed her senses.

His face, framed by dark brown hair, showed rough lines of strength and fortitude. A crooked nose, a square jaw, and a chiseled chin marked his unique personality. Added together, the sum indicated the man rarely backed down from a fight. He’d stand up for his beliefs and defeat his opponents. His lopsided grin with a dimple at the corner of his mouth teased her.

A silly feature on such a stern face. The little mark claimed her heart and spoke of a rare sense of humor, a trait absent in most men.

A tingle ran down her spine. Her toes curled. Either as an appealing partner or a worthy adversary, the man presented a dangerous combination. Right then, without question, Marohka decided never to cross paths with him again.

"It is for me," she responded to his comment. She lifted her chin a little higher and repaired the chip in her armor with a sassy comeback. "But you’re welcome to any of the girls behind me. I’m sure they’ll enjoy your charm."

Marohka lifted her skirt and swept up the stairs. The sound of his laughter spoiled her intended snub.

Find at www.amirapress.com


And check out my other books on my website www.tinagayle.net

Tina

Patience

Patience is bitter,
but its fruit is sweet.

Here's to a wonderful harvest.

Tina

Doubt

Doubt makes the mountain
which faith can move.

Let's conquer that mountain.

Tina

How not to forget your dream as a Writer

By my special guest - Christine Clemetson

Can you imagine how those U.S. hockey players felt when they stepped onto the ice in Lake Placid for the first time, already slated as the underdog? Dave Anderson, a columnist for the New York Times wrote the day before the match, "Unless the ice melts, or unless the United States team or another team performs a miracle…..the Russians are expected to easily win the Olympic gold medal for the sixth time in the last seven tournaments."


But they endured. They kept going at it, game after game, until they achieved victory.

At a particular time when I was receiving rejection after rejection, my mother told me a story from when I was about 4 years old. As she loaded a cart full of food on the conveyor belt at the food store, I asked her what color lipstick the woman in front of us was wearing. She replied red. I pressed her further, asking her if the color was more like an apple or a strawberry. She told me

I could describe it any way I wanted.

From that story, I realized it takes perseverance to believe in your dreams. During your day, whether it be at the office or at home with your family, don’t forget to spend time with your craft. Even if you jot a few sentences down before bed, or write an idea for a scene while eating your lunch in the office. Think about your plot, think about your characters. Take that second to decide if the lipstick your heroine is wearing is fuscia or plumberry.

If you don’t have a spot designated to write, maneuver your living room furniture around to find a small alcove you could convert into a mini-office. Sit at the kitchen table where the breeze grabs you just the right way. Dig out the lawn chair and take it to the park with a pad of paper.

Be creative. Wherever you feel the vibe to write is where you should be.


Make your dream happen. Keeping writing and keep reaching for your next goal, whether it be a first contract, a new query, or finding an agent.

Blurb

A Daughter’s Promise, by debut novelist Christine Clemetson, is a sweeping love story of sacrifice and unexpected hope. In war torn Italy, 1944, Serene Moneto made a promise to her dying mother—a promise so haunting that it directs the course of her life. When she chooses to save an American soldier from death, she risks everything—her name, her life, and capture by the Germans. Finding forbidden love with this soldier tears her world apart. Against the backdrop of a war raging right outside her door, can she choose happiness? Despite the promise she made those years ago?

See the trailer at http://www.christineclemetson.com/trailers.html

Excerpt

They both knew Serene’s turn had come. She took in a deep breath and touched his arms in a stiff embrace. She hugged him the way she had rehearsed in her head over and over, the way a mother would hug her son going off to war.

"I don’t care who sees," he said gruffly, pulling her closer. He pushed her chin up with his
fingertips, and bent his head to kiss her.

She took his lips, his body, all of him, into her heart for the last time. Feeling the rapid beating in his chest, she fought the urge to mold her most intimate part against his.

When their lips parted, his warm breath on her neck made her body shiver. Wrapping her arms around his neck, she buried her face into his jacket. "I’m not ashamed about
what I said to you last night or what happened between us." Her voice cracked. "It’s a sin, I know, but it was the most beautiful—"

"Ashamed? I don’t think I’ll ever have that kind of love again."

Trembling, she stood back a little, clinging to her emotions with the delicacy of a spider web.



"But you were right. We made the most logical decision."


"Jesus, Serry. I want to tell you so bad that I—"


"You’re all set, then?" Sam said, coming back into the house.


Serene let go of Miles, letting her one finger intertwine with one of his pinky fingers. She couldn’t let him go.


Slowly, he released her and went to the door, putting one foot on the outside pavement before hesitating and turning back. His eyes were red, and she clutched the stair banister to keep from running to him. How much she loved him would be a secret
she’d take to the grave.


Carrying a bottle of whiskey, Marcus passed him at the door and gave him a friendly slap on the back. "I came to give you a goodbye, Coulson."


Serene stood up straight and froze.


Miles jerked himself away. "Change of heart about me?"


His answer was Marcus’ deep kiss on Serene’s cheek and an arm around her waist. "I realized, Coulson, that I’m proud of her for taking the responsibility for you. I thought it was about time that I offered my apologies for the undiplomatic way I acted. We’re all in this for a cause, no? Why don’t we share a bottle to celebrate?"


"No, your change of heart doesn’t rub me the right way." Miles offered an apologetic glance to Serene and then shifted his gaze back to Marcus. "You hurt her, and I’ll hurt you. You understand me?"


"Have a safe trip," Marcus drawled.


Serene watched the driver help him in and her knees weakened. As the truck’s engine started, she braced herself against the wall.


"Don’t worry. Serene. Just think of this as a wedding present from me. No more worries about your American. He is well now and gone for good. Your only thanks is to marry me."
She couldn’t hear him. Her throat ached and she made no effort to wipe the tears spilling freely from her eyes. She started for the door, but he grabbed her by the shoulders.

Check out her website at

http://www.christineclemetson.com/


Tina

Fun Blogs to Visit

One of the wonderful things about being in RWA is the wonderful people you meet. Everyone has such diverse interests and ideas.

Check out my local RWA blogs and see the wonderful things HWG writers have to say.

http://heartlandwritersgroup.blogspot.com


Have an awesome day,

Tina

Checking Out Nebraska

This week my husband and I visited three wineries and viewed acres of rich green farmland ripe with corn.

Located in a lower part of Nebraska, the wineries each had special features which made them worth visiting.

Whiskey Run Creek is located near hwy 29 in Brownville, which makes it easy to visit. They offer a free wine tasting if you buy a bottle of their wine, a treat worth partaking in.

Schilling Bridge Winery is in Pawnee City and is also a microbrewery. So you can try out beer and wine, whichever one you like best. They also have some great tasting root beer. The last one we visited is near Lincoln, and has a number of very nice dry wines.

Deer Springs Winery is one of the newer wineries and is a nice place to relax on a lazy summer day. Check them out and have a great week.

Tina

Monday Morning Inspiration

Hope sees the invisible,
feels the intangible
and achieves the impossible.

Have a wonderful week,

Tina

Defend Your Health Care

For those of you who haven't listened to the details of what's in the bill currently in Washington, you might want to check out this site.

http://www.defendyourhealthcare.us/

You'll learn some amazing things.

Like you will have to change your current health care provider. No one person can have a better health care program than another. Even if you can pay for it. Except maybe congress.

You no longer have control of your health care choices. The government decides if you can have a knee replacement or surgery.

It will no longer be about what the patient's need but what is best for society (so if you're older and only have a few years to live anyway, you don't get the treatment).

I don't usually display my political beliefs but this is wrong.

Check it out and see what you think.

Tina

Release July31 - Youthful Temptations

Just thought I'd let you know Youthful Temptations will be coming out Friday, 31st.

Here's the blurb for the book.

A widow with two grown children, Linda Clayton is ready to let loose and have some fun. Jilted at a party, she meets a younger man, Vaughn Reagan. He tempts with an active imagination and allures her into his life by tempting her with seductive games.

Vaughn thrilled to find a woman who doesn’t want children. He offers Linda a job so he can spend his days with her. Now, if he could only convince her to forget their age difference and enjoy the nights in his arm.


Check it out at http://www.amirapress.com/ on Friday.

Tina




Tina

Spend a Day at the Lake

Water attracts people, whether for its calming effects or its beauty.

A day at the lake can ease the mind and relax the body.

Enjoy,


Tina

Donna Marie Rogers

Welcome Donna.

Glad to have you on my site.

Hi Tina!

Thank you so much for hosting me today. To change things up, I'd like to post my blurb and a brand new excerpt from my new release Meant To Be. And if anyone would like to leave a comment, I'll draw a winner for a free download of Meant To Be. :-)

She's running from her past, he's unsure about his future. Maybe together they can figure out what was Meant To Be.Officer Garrett Jamison is at the lowest point in his life. He's lost faith in his ability as a police officer after unwittingly setting his sister up with a dirty cop. Garrett ended up getting shot, and his sister's son kidnapped right out of his own bed. He takes a leave from the force, in need of some time to make a decision about his future. Too bad he can't get a decent night's sleep thanks to his sexy new neighbor and her howling cat. Jessica McGovern moves halfway across the country to start a new life in Green Bay, Wisconsin after her ex-husband is convicted of involuntary manslaughter in the death of their young son. Her new neighbor is as infuriating as he is handsome, but when her ex is released from prison early and shows up in town, Jessica discovers she's never needed anyone more.

Excerpt:

"Well?" He stood up and motioned her forward. "Aren't you going to send me off with a good night kiss?"

She let out a delicate snort. "You act as if we're dating or something. Hell, we just got past our mutual dislike of each other."

"Is 'mutual dislike' what you were feeling when you wrapped your arms and legs around me in the kitchen?" he asked, annoyed by her casual attitude. "Because it's definitely not what I was feeling."

"I see your ego isn't as delicate as you thought it was."

Garrett reached down, grasped both her hands, and hauled her to her feet. He gazed down at her, holding her tight against him with one hand, while the other worked the ponytail holder from her hair. Gently, he fingercombed the silky blonde tendrils away from her face while gazing down at her lips, fighting the urge to kiss her breathless. "The hell with it," he whispered, losing the battle. He took her mouth with fierce possession.

Jessica melted into him without hesitation. She wrapped her arms around his neck and slanted her mouth across his, meeting the thrust of his tongue with a sexy little moan.

Garrett had to use every bit of his self-control to keep from stripping her naked and taking her right there on the floor. He wanted to taste every inch of her, make her burn for him, hunger for him. She could deny it till the cows came home, but the way she responded to him was all the proof he needed.

Jessica wanted him just as much.



Bio for Donna



Romance author Donna Marie Rogers lives in a renovated old schoolhouse in beautiful Northeast Wisconsin with her husband and children. She's an avid gardener and home-canner, as well as an admitted reality TV junkie. Her passion to read is only exceeded by her passion to write, so when she's not doing the wife and mother thing, you can usually find her sitting at her computer creating exciting new characters, fresh new worlds, and always happily-ever-afters.




Thanks everyone for giving Donna a warm welcome.

Tina

Inspiration

Do not wait to strike till the iron is hot; but make it hot by striking.

William B. Sprague

Special Guest on July 27

Stop by and learn about Donna and read excerpts of her new book.

Tina

Motivation to Keep Trying

Constant dripping hollows out a stone.

Lucretius

Tina

Get Out and Enjoy the Countryside

As you probably all know, my husband and I love to travel. The best part is my husband loves to take pictures so we can enjoy the fun even after the vacation is over.

Have a wonderful summer,

Tina

Motivational Inspiration

Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall.

Confucius

Tina

DeSoto Wildlife Refuge

Mike and I took a short trip out to DeSoto Wildlife Refuge in Nebraska.

A fascinating place, the birthplace of a lake and the dead fork of the Missouri River, DeSoto is where the "Bertrand" sank, a merchant steamboat that held merchandise bound for the Montana Territory.

The Visitor Center holds a large assortment of the items retrieved from the boat.

Would love to go back when the birds are flying through.

At this time of year, the refuge is quiet and offers a peaceful place to rest and relax.

If you get a chance, you might want to stop by.

To see more of my pictures visit my website.

Tina
www.tinagayle.net

Rocky Mountain National Park

This is a great place to visit if you want to cool off in the summer.

As you can see there is still snow on the ground and on the mountains.


Tina

Happy Fourth of July

Have an awesome day of fun in the sun.

Tina

Starting the 4th of July Weekend

Hamburgers, hot dogs and fireworks.

The noise has already started. Fireworks are going off every night near my house. People enjoying the season and having fun.

Here is a quick dessert to enjoy on our country's birthday.

Ingredients:

Blueberries
Strawberries
A store bought angel food cake
Whip topping

Pick out a pretty glass bowl to make this in so it will display all the colors.

First cut the angel food cake in half. Then tear one half of the cake into small bite size pieces and lay them in the bottom of the bowl. Then sprinkle some blueberries on top, then strawberries, then the whip topping. Repeat the with the second half of the cake, and add the other layers.

Keep a few blueberries and strawberries to display on top.

A great treat for everyone and it looks pretty too.

Tina

Winner

Wendi Zwaduk - you have won a free copy of my book "Pregnancy Plan."


Tina

Another one of my unanswerable Questions

I don't care which came first the chicken or the egg.

But I would like to know how to break an egg without getting egg white from dripping all over my counter.

And don't give me, do it over the bowl, because then I'm stuck fishing egg shells out of my batter.

A simple task that isn't that simple.

Tina

Stop and Smell the Roses Blog Bouquet

It is so easy to go by all the wonderful places around your house without stopping for a moment to appreciate the true beauty of nature.

My husband loves to take picture and we have visited a number of national parks such as Death Valley, the Grand Canyon, Brice Canyon and others.

I believe it helps me to create the places in my books. I've learned to pick out the special items in a place that make them unique. Death Valley has sand dunes and to my surprise plants like African violets.


Today as you tour the different blogs I invite you to learn more about each author and find out what makes each one unique. As you can see by my blog, I love to travel.

Please leave a comment and win a copy of my e-book "Pregnancy Plan."

Winners will be announced tomorrow July 30.

Good Luck,

Tina

Here's all the other roses to visit:

http://amberleighwilliams.blogspot.com

http://authorsstudio.blogspot.com/

http://bettyhanawa.blogspot.com/

http://christineclemetson.blogspot.com


http://findagreatromance.blogspot.com/

http://www.freewebs.com/lesmora/apps/blog/

http://freewebs.com/teriwilson/apps/blog/

http://grgiall.blogspot.com

http://hywelalyn.blogspot.com

http://jennfrancesca.blogspot.com


http://joycemoore.blogspot.com

http://lianalaverentz.blogspot.com

http://LindaHopeLee.blogspot.com

http://lje1.wordpress.com


http://noveltrails.blogspot.com

http://plotsandthoughts.blogspot.com


http://tanyahanson.blogspot.com

http://tinagayle.net
( Here's my website, check out me and my books)

http://traveltheages.blogspot.com



http://willtravelforromance.blogspot.com

Inspiration

Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgment that something else is more important than fear.

Ambrose Redmoon

After reading this quote and who said it. I wondered who Ambrose Redmoon was.

So I did a google search and found he was a hippie, writer, and former manager of the psychedelic folk rock band Quicksilver Messenger Service hippie.

Also a writer, he not well-know but his quote is.

Encouraging thought that the world does heard us when we speak.

Tina

Universities' Superstitions

While out visiting different college campuses, I discover each has their unique superstition.

At Auburn, if you step on the above seal bad things will happen to you. Like you won't graduate, your hair will fall out, you'll lose the love of your life.

At Georgia, you are not allowed to pass under the arches until you have graduated or you won't.

Interesting what we learn in school.

Tina

Tina

Inspiration

“It is not because things are difficult that we do not dare, it is because we do not dare that they are difficult.”

Seneca

Have a wonderful week,

Tina

Searching For Information

One place you might want to look is at the
Smithsonian Institution site.

http://www.si.edu/

This can really help when researching a certain subject or looking for events around the time period of your book.


Tina

Bewildering question

I know why we call a tomato, is a fruit.

But the real question is why do most people consider it a vegetable?

Because it's not sweet?

Tina

Tour of Clemson

I must say Clemson has a lot of history on it's campus. A beautiful place to visit even if you don't plan on attending school there. The home of John C. Calhoun sits on the campus and is registered as a National Historic Landmark.

Calhoun's son-in-law Thomas Green Clemson later willed the land to the state of South Carolina for a place for higher education.

Check out more picture at my website.
www.tinagayle.net




Tina

Monday Inspiration

Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go.

T. S. Eliot

Tina

Writing Tip - Add Emotion

For a story to really engage its reader, an author needs to evoke an emotional response to his work. Make the reader care what will happen next, and they will keep turning the pages.

Below is a link to an article for adding emotion to your writing.


http://thewildrosepress.com/publisher/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1470&Itemid=203

Hope you find it useful,

Tina

New Cover for Mating Rituals

Isn't my new cover wonderful?

Mating Rituals is one of the first stories I wrote and I'm very excited about the fabulous job Mia did for my cover.

Don't have a date yet when it will be released but it is always fun to see the cover.

Tina

Monday Morning Inspiration

“Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, you'll find one at the end of your arm... As you grow older you will discover that you have two hands. One for helping yourself, the other for helping others.”

Audrey Hepburn

What an incredible lady, if I could only be like her.

Tina

What's in a Name

Author spend a lot of time think of their characters names.

Here is some of the things we think about.

Don't name two character with the same first few letters, like Carol and Carly.
They are too close the same name and it will confuse the reader.

Think about the sound of the name - you won't want to have a hero named Willy or Willis.
They invoke a wimpy character in the mind of the reader.

Try not to use name where the reader can't tell if the character is a male or a female unless of course this is your intention.

Parents might want to think about these thinks when they are naming their child too.

Wendy Gale (a name I thought of when I was pregnant wouldn't have been the best choice for a girl) Unless of course, she was related to Storm.(X-men super-hero)

Tina

Inspiration from a President

“Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power.”

Abraham Lincoln

New Partner in Crime

One thing most writers like to have is a critique partner to share their work.

It always helps to have another set of eyes review your work and give you suggestions on what the story might be lacking.

Luckily, I'm a member of RWA and have met a number of writers. If you are a new writer or want to learn more about the business and craft of writing, I strongly suggest you look into Romance Writers of America. They were formed to help romance writers but anyone can join.

Check them out and have a great week,

Tina

Happy Memorial Day

Here's to all the men who died for our country.

May we never forget the sacrifices they made for our freedom.

Have a great day,

Tina

Getting the Smells Out of a Room

I use two different tricks.

One a sprinkle baking soda all over the carpet and let sit for overnight, then I vacumn it up.

(Caution - this can make your vacumn bag very heavy)

Two - put white vinegar on a plate and set on a table in the middle of the room. This helps absorb the ordors in the air.

Hope this helps,

Tina

Be inspired by one of the best players ever

“It's hard to beat a person who never gives up.”

Babe Ruth

Cover for Youthful Temptation

Wanted to show you the cover of my new book from Amira Press. Not sure yet of a release day, will let you know when I do.

Tina

Local Production

I had the pleasure of seeing a local production of "You can't take it with you."

The high school did a great job.

Support your local theatre and enjoy some great shows.

Tina

Inspiration for the Week

“Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated.”

Confucius

Boy is this ever true.

KISS (Keep it simple stupid)

Tina

Hate the Taste of Mouth Wash

Why not make your own?

1st option- 1/2 tsp. salt + 8 oz water
stronger option - 1/2 tsp. salt + 4 oz water.
totally different option - 1/2 tsp. baking soda + 8 oz. water.

Or do like I do and use Hydrogen Peroxide, just rinse your mouth several times when your done.

Tina

Exciting News

I am happy to report. I've sold another book to Amira Press. "Mating Rituals" is a fantasy with mystery and adventure to liven things up.

Tina

Monday Morning Inspiration - Keep the Enthusiasm Going

“Success is going from failure to failure without a loss of enthusiasm.”

Sir Winston Churchill

It helps to know in your heart that some day your dreams will come true. Then self-doubt doesn't wear on your enthusiasm.

Tina

Need a New Verb

If you find yourself using the same old verbs, you might want to check out this article on the Wild Rose Press site.

thewildrosepress.com

Tina

Spring Flowers

I so excited the blubs I planted last year came up. It is a great treat for the spring.

Hope flowers are blooming in your world.

Tina

Monday Morning Inspiration - Don't Quit

When things go wrong as they sometimes will;
When the road you're trudging seems all uphill;
When the funds are low, and the debts are high
And you want to smile, but have to sigh;
When care is pressing you down a bit-
Rest if you must, but do not quit.

Success is failure turned inside out;
The silver tint of the clouds of doubt;
And you can never tell how close you are
It may be near when it seems so far;
So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit-
It's when things go wrong that you must not quit.

Author Unknown


Oh, but sometimes it is so tempting.

Tina

Spring is Coming

The tulips I planted last fall are beginning to peek their head up through the ground. I'm even planted some blueberry bushes this week. We are so close to enjoying spring. I can't believe its finally here.

Tina

Doing the Normal Things This Week

After going to Kansas City last week, I need to spend this week checking up on all the stuff I've let lag. Pages to write and edits to do, I have a laundry list of regular everyday chores to accomplish. Only exciting plans, I have this week is to enjoy a picnic with my husband at the park.

Enjoy the nicer weather and have a great week,

Tina