Today, at least here in Ontario, is the last day of school for elementary students. The children, of course and for the most part are happy. The parents, who now must come up with some manner of having their children supervised over the summer, perhaps not so much so.
It doesn’t seem that long ago that we had to make arrangements for our own children over the summer months. We lived out in the country, and fortunately, there was a young lady who lived next door to us, who came over each day. There weren’t the options available to parents then that there are now for keeping them busy, nor was there an emphasis on structured activities like there is today.
There was Vacation Bible School, of course, and that was free. But it was only one week, leaving seven more to fill. Our children pretty much were expected to play outside when the weather was good, to make their own fun—it was the age before computers, and cable television with their all day cartoon network, so making their own fun was really my kids’ only option.
I don’t recall that there were many complaints of boredom from them, but that could have been because they knew I’d find them work to do if they did complain.
These days there are, of course, all sorts of “day camp” options available for the children to attend. Some are run by organizations like the YMCA, and some by the Parks and Recreation department of the local communities. Most of the programs hire teenagers to interact with the children, while being organized and supervised by adults.
Yes, the day camps are a glorified babysitting program, but they usually feature activities to keep the children’s minds and bodies occupied. Kids attending these programs go on outings to parks and zoos, to museums and observatories, and to conservation areas where they can swim. There’re arts and crafts and games. They make friends and have fun.
There are also all sorts of specialized camps. Rock climbing camps, canoeing camps, even pottery camps can be found in our area. My granddaughter’s favorite specialty camp is Horse Camp. There the children enjoy all of the above activities, with the added fun of learning how to ride and care for horses. She’s attended every year for the last five years. It’s her favorite two weeks of the year.
All of the programs offered are expensive, but then so is hiring a babysitter in this day and age. I don’t know how parents manage. Some don’t, I suppose. There are children left to their own devices during the day while their parents work. For those who can’t afford to have their children supervised, and those who can but struggle to pay for it, I imagine the idea of year-round school is an attractive concept.
My two youngest grandchildren will have a couple of weeks with mom, while she takes her vacation from work, but the rest of the time they’ll attend various camps. No sleeping in for them, either, as their day camps usually start around eight in the morning, run until four-thirty or five in the afternoon, and take place Monday to Friday.
The children still have to have a lunch packed, the same as during the school year. And some of the camps are even held at the school, utilizing the gymnasium and cafeteria space.
I kind of feel sorry for those children who attend camp at their schools. It must feel as if they never get away from the dreaded place.
In general, when I look at the lives my grandchildren lead—the homework and projects they have to do, the extra activities they’re expected to engage in, and the busyness that is their lives, I can’t help but shake my head in wonder.
Being a kid sure seems to be a lot more work than I remember it being.
Love,
Morgan
http://www.bookstrand.com/morgan-ashbury
http://wednesdayswordsbymorgan.blogspot.com/
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Wednesday's Words for June 29, 2011
Monday, June 27, 2011
Angelic Forecast ~ #147
Note: Late posting due to a lightning storm.
“You must make a choice, my beauty.” His tone is strained. “Yet, how can I let you choose when it could mean losing you again?”
My eyelids fall shut as I spin slowly inside. Somehow my hands slide up his arms, and I cling to him. “When must I make this choice?”
“Soon.” He speaks after my heart has thumped several beats. “For now, I wish to show you more of Mars.”
“More of Mars,” I repeat as my eyes open. My thoughts are lost in a haze of passion and confusion for several moments. “Yes, I want to see more of Mars... experience everything I can. What is it you want to show me?” I ask simply to keep the moment alive for as long as possible. And, because he feels all too good.
“Sh’raka.” He intones my ancient name. I can’t help but hear the thunderous rivers of passion inside him.
Then, we’re walking somewhere, my hand clasped within his. Silently, we move down a long zigzag of corridors until a blaze of light envelops us, and an immense tropical garden is before us... only much of the flora is different than on Earth.
We walk, hand in hand, along a gleaming alabaster path, and I hear various chatterings, but see no animals or birds.
“This is a place of serenity,” Amen-Dhuroth says in that lion rumble of his. “Of connecting with the natural forces of our Mother/Father Mars. Once you are attuned to our rhythms you will more easily understand our cultures here.”
“How similar to the ancient times on Earth?” I halt in my tracks as monkey-lemur creatures hang by their arms and tails, their gazes focused on me. A tribe of them leaps from branch to branch overhead. An amazing sight, of course.
“Quite similar in spirituality and our technologies, yet vastly different in what we have accomplished, and in how we live our lives. We are freer here. Before you ask, my woman, it is due to what you would call a level playing field. Or equal opportunities for one and all.”
“Certainly something sorely lacking back on dear Earth.” I stop, suddenly assailed by horrific visions again. Not much is going well back home.
“What do you see?” he asks.
“It’s as if every force on Earth is colliding with every other force. Evil stains everything.” As I speak, tears stain my cheeks. “When will this nightmare end?”
TO BE CONTINUED...
~~~~~~
ANGELIC FORECAST ~
This week will be one that lives in the history books as a marker for the year 2012. Both for GOOD and for BAD.
From this point forward a return to the divine feminine and, thus, the divine masculine will become apparent to those who are attuned to the universal energies. This is the time to look at your relationship with gender, and to discover more of who you are.
Notice also, that ‘truth’ will continue rising like the phoenix -- all spectacular color and fiery brilliance. Like ash from colossal volcanic eruptions, truth now spreads across the globe and settles on everyone.
Behind the scenes, hidden to most of us, and kept hidden by the art and blackness of deception, a civil war rages. This is between those who have mastered the higher technologies and now battle each other for ultimate control. It is X-Files for real.
This hidden war will be exposed incrementally, and the plan is to keep it covered up by a world war. However, divine intervention to stop this level of war is being bolstered by the wildfire Awakening of humanity.
On the good side, those who would be the dark tyrannical kings of Earth are being thwarted at nearly every turn. In an attempt to win the endgame, these soulless ones are becoming out-in-the-open bold with their corruption and evil acts.
On a personal level, this week is perfect to look for and find what truly frees your soul. This week is also about freeing your mind to think beyond what you have been taught, beyond what you currently believe. It’s a new world for those who seize it. For those who want it. For those who will treasure what this ‘new way of life’ offers.
Trendwise, all hell breaks loose. More and more, there will be massive resistance to the trends the establishment has coopted, and those trends they attempt to force on us. The Big Boys in this industry are losing ground, and now their power will be ripped from beneath them like a tablecloth from beneath the dinner dishes. This means that individual creativity will shine bright as the noon sun. To win in the days ahead, take your place in the sun.
Angelic blessings from Volcano & Sedona
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Warning!!! The global elite [New World Order] does not want *you* to read this book. See ~ Powerful Dreams at my Kougar Kisses blog.
WHEN A GOOD ANGEL FALLS
Where angels fear to tread, 2012 Earth ~
Is a stranger on a superspeed motorcycle her savior from the brutal endtimes?
Blurb: Winter Solstice, December 21, 2012 – The end of the Mayan Calendar
What happens when a world weary, worn out incarnated angel, Sedona, who believes she is merely human has three choices after her old van breaks down?
~~~ IN PRINT ~~~ a former #1 on Siren-BookStrand’s bestseller list
Author Discovery by Lindsay Townsend, BookStrand author of FLAVIA’S SECRET, A SECRET TREASURE, BLUE GOLD, BRONZE LIGHTNING, SILK AND STEEL, HOLIDAY IN BOLOGNA and CHASING RACHEL ~
WHEN A GOOD ANGEL FALLS ~ adventure fantasy erotic romance ~ available from Siren-BookStrand ~
~~~
~ HAVE A MAGICKAL SUMMER ~
Kisses from Savanna Kougar...
~ Run on the Wild Side of Romance ~
Siren-BookStrand Author of ~
All Shades of Blue Paradise
[World of the Blue Pearl Moon, Book 1]
When a Good Angel Falls ~ In Print
[Winter Solstice 2012, Book 1]
Murder by Hair Spray in Gardenia, New Atlantis ~ In Print
[New Atlantis Trilogy, Book 1]
Her Insatiable Dark Heroes ~ In Print
[Chrontropolis, Book 1]
Stallion of Ash and Flame ~ In Print
Branded by the Texans ~ IN PRINT ~ A Siren-BookStrand Bestseller!
[Three Star Republic]
Kandy Apple and Her Hellhounds ~ Coming from Siren-BookStrand, August 2011 ~ What happens when two of Hades’ most mission-accomplished Hellhounds find just the right witch for Halloween?
~~~~~~
New Reviews for Bella's Wolves by Stacey Espino
Wendy's Review
Stacey brought another great read. She has you sitting reading every word and anticipating the next.
Bella grew up knowing that she wasn't complete. She bragged about her camping experience and how she could survive on her own. Well bragging brought her to the situation she finds herself in.
Bella's friend Amanda told her to dress for the evening, what she didn't tell her was that she was going on a camping trip with her boyfriend, who Bella couldn't stand, and another couple. Just what Bella wanted—to be 5th wheel. Being stranded and going alone in the woods trying to find wood and berries, Bella comes across two men who she finds attractive and just what she wanted. Ben and Draco find the woman who is their mate even if she is just human; but which one will be claiming her first? Their animal instinct wants to protect and claim their mate.
What they don't realize is there is more to Bella than meets the eye.
Stacey has you on edge, not knowing exactly what is going to happen next. The adventure adds to Bella and her men, Ben and Draco's, lives and what they mean to each other.
This book is well written, and even though it is a sequel, you really can read it alone and enjoy it immensely!
5 Tea Cups!
Rating: 4 Cups
Bella has been on her own for years, because she could not stand how overprotective and controlling her parents were. She has had to work jobs that do not pay much more than minimum wage and lives with a roommate, but at least she is the captain of her own ship.
Ben and Draco are werewolves. Ben knows the city and how to survive there, even if he chooses to live in the woods with his pack. Draco knows little of the city, and does not care to learn about the city or anything connected to it or humans.
When Bella’s best friend, Amanda, tells her to dress “hot,” Bella thinks she means “sexy.” Unfortunately, what Amanda should have said was “dress warm.” When Amanda arrives in a large vehicle with her boyfriend, Keith, and their friend, Sara, and her boyfriend and announces they are all going on a camping trip for the weekend, Bella is less than enthused. As much as she loved the woods when she was a child, now she fears them, and being stuck as the fifth wheel to the two couples is not her idea of a good time. Things go from bad to worse when she realizes that none of the people with her have any skills for surviving in the wilderness. The fact becomes even more apparent when she realizes they have no food, and did not bring a lighter or matches to start a fire. Scared, cold, and hungry Bella goes into the wood looking for kindling, which she finds, but she is also, unbeknowest to her, found by the werewolf Ben, who knows by her scent that she is his mate. He approaches their campground and Bella and uses the opportunity to introduce himself. Unfortunately, his plans go awary when a fellow packmate, Draco, also recognizes her as his mate. Which werewolf will claim the lovely Bella? Only time and her secrets will tell.
I truly enjoyed Bella’s Wolves, and the punchline to the whole story is absolutely fantastic and made this story well worth reading! The sex is absolutely phenomenal and uber hot. I liked the dichotomy between Ben and Draco. Their personalities are completely different, but I really enjoyed how in the end, protecting Bella was what was truly important to them both, enough so that at least a few of their differences were set aside. Bella has an interesting personality as well. I really liked her independence and willingness to break away from her parents and their money to make it on her own. Overall, this was a great story that I am more than happy to recommend to others!
Regina
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance & More
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Love Sabotaged Cover Art
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Wednesday's Words for June 22, 2011
Under most circumstances, I am proud of my country and my countrymen and women. However, I am deeply ashamed of the riots that occurred in Vancouver following the hockey game last Wednesday night.
I do not for one minute believe that the rioting, the looting or the violence perpetrated against other people and their possessions were the actions of real hockey fans.
I very much doubt any of those punks actually attended the game, period.
I have no doubt that the rioting and the lawless behaviour was instigated by those who already are known to the police, who likely have criminal records. One good thing about this age of technology, there seems to be no shortage of video or still photos to assist the police in their investigation. At last count they had nearly one million images, and had laid hundreds of charges.
This mob mentality isn’t anything new, of course. There’ve been riots in the streets ever since there have been streets and people to populate them. Sadly, this is the second time such an event has occurred in Vancouver. The last time, in 1994, also followed a loss of the Stanley Cup in game seven, that time to the New York Rangers.
I like to believe that we, as human beings, have evolved beyond this kind of disgraceful behaviour. Yes, I know my naïveté is showing. Some people take their sporting events very seriously, often coming to blows. It’s happened over in Europe following close soccer matches, and in other places in North America, as well. Some folks just like to cause chaos, and actually there is apparently a class of people who call themselves anarchists whose sole purpose seems to be to simply wreak havoc.
The police chief of Vancouver stated that some of these people had come from out of town specifically to cause trouble last Wednesday night. I do not understand this group. Anarchists? Where’s the logic in that?
The price tag from last Wednesday’s rampage hasn’t been totalled yet, but the riot in 1994 caused over a million dollars worth of damage. People were hurt, then as now, so who knows what the real human toll could be? Aside from people being injured and property destroyed, how do you evaluate the cost to the province and the city of the tarnishing their reputations?
How long, I wonder, will the people of the world tolerate this kind of brazen destruction before things change in a very fundamental way? Perhaps cities hosting major sporting events, such as the Stanley Cup, or even the Super Bowl or the World Series, will begin to enact stringent measures with regard to these venues in order to protect lives and property.
What could city councils decide to do? They could enact strict curfews in the city centers; demand that all ticket holders board busses in outlying areas to be transported in, and then bussed out again—with marshals on each bus, of course. They could demand that police in riot gear, carrying tear gas and assault rifles patrol the streets, guarding the businesses and property of tax payers.
It all sounds rather draconian, doesn’t it?
I wonder that such tactics haven’t been used already. As a society, we seem quick to make rules and regulations in the face of stupid behaviour—hence the warning of “hot” being printed on paper take-out coffee cups, and the admonition not to iron clothes while wearing them printed on the boxes that contain those small appliances.
Maybe in the end there will be no more live events, period. Perhaps they will all be available only on video feed, and only in private residences.
In essence, eventually society will move to protect itself from immaturity and selfishness—because sadly, there seems to be no cure for these two traits.
Love,
Morgan
http://www.bookstrand.com/morgan-ashbury
http://wednesdayswordsbymorgan.blogspot.com/
Monday, June 20, 2011
New Release: Sacrifice Turned Seduction by Rita sawyer
Gage can't ignore how much he wants Dianne. It is more than physical desire. He wants to get to know everything about her. The problem is she avoids him whenever possible. So when he is given the chance to put her in a position where she owes him something, he chooses her. Now he’s going to do whatever it takes to get her to see he’s not the player everyone thinks he is.
You can read more HERE or buy HERE
And if you missed book 1: Doing Her Way now is the perfect time to pick it up because Siren Publishing is offering it for 15 % off this week.5 Teacups from HEA Reviews! for Vigilant, a Paranormal/Sci-Fi Romance (angels & demons)
I discovered a very nice 5-star review of my steamy, action-packed Paranormal/Sci-Fi Romance, Vigilant. It’s one of the first reviews, so I’m pretty thrilled.
“I very much enjoyed [Vigilant]. Whether or not you’re a sci-fi fan, you’ll enjoy this stirring, romantic adventure.”
Check out Vigilant’s 5 out of 5 Teacups review from Happily Ever After Reviews:
http://hea-reviews.blogspot.com/2011/06/review-vigilant-by-michele-hart.html
* Investigate Vigilant. Where do the mortals fit in the war between the angels and demons? *
Alliance I-Marshal Weber hauls Yadira to her home planet and infiltrates the human-trafficking ring controlling her. But he finds himself unbearably attracted to his witness. A gift for detecting deception reveals she’s the next victim of a criminal industry.
Descending into shadowy worlds of slavery, Yadira endures a dark angel stalking her dreams and watches the quiet I-Marshal become dangerous in her defense. Everything about him moves her…except the memory of seeing him execute the most important man in her life. Shouldn’t she take vengeance? Delusions of a heavenly guardian affect her mind.
Slavers and demons plan to snatch her from Weber’s custody while he is uncovering connections, and Weber won’t hesitate to execute the guilty surrounding Yadira. Who but a son of fire can save her from fiends harboring hardcore fantasies of harming her?
ISBN#: e-Book 1-61034-396-4 * Print 1-61034-682-3
Read and live an adventure.
Have an action-packed day,
Michele Hart
Paranormal/Sci-Fi Romance Author
Peace on Earth, Hell in Space
~ Walk Another World ~ http://www.ILoveShapeShifters.com/
What do you do when you can't throw someone down a flight of stairs? Write a story about it.
Siren-BookStrand * VIGILANT - New Release * GANGBUSTERS coming soon
Siren-BookStrand * MIND-BLOWN * LUMINOUS NIGHTS - 2011 Golden Quill Finalist
Siren-BookStrand * LOOKS ARE DECEIVING - 2010 Readers Favorite Bronze Award winner
Angelic Forecast ~ #146
“That is our gateway home,” he intones behind me. “However, now is not the time. There remains too much to accomplish here. In this time.”
“Yeah,” I murmur seconds later. “Super crises after super crises. The rise of freedom. The awakening. And, a new awareness. It’s all coalescing for 2012.”
“Yes. And World War has begun on Earth.”
After seconds, I nod. It’s no surprise. Yet, the reality is unbelievably difficult to face. “It just doesn’t look like what we’ve been taught world wars look like.” I shake my head sadly. “Weather wars, bio wars that can be blamed on natural pathogens... I wonder why humanity has such a hidden death wish?”
“Some of the human ‘death wish’ was encoded in certain gene programming. A way to keep humans enslaved. Part of that encoding was nefarious. Yet it was also done to control the earliest specimens because of their violent natures. Necessary to survival in the wild.”
“Light and dark,” I murmur as the realization takes place. “The dark side wants Earth, and those of us on Earth to serve its agenda. But Earth is ringing with freedom and singing with light.”
Amen-Dhuroth takes my hand, bringing me before him. Our gazes meet as if that’s the only thing to do during this moment, these splendid moments.
“I cannot let you go, my Sh’raka. I will not let you go.”
His words echo through me powerfully. I don’t know what to think. Does he mean he defies destiny? Or... Oh, I feel lighter than air, yet so bewildered.
“I don’t think I... I understand, given...” But I can’t say anymore. For, words desert me.
“You must make a choice, my beauty.” His tone is strained. “Yet, how can I let you choose when it could mean losing you again?”
My eyelids fall shut as I spin slowly inside. Somehow my hands slide up his arms, and I cling to him. “When must I make this choice?”
“Soon.” He speaks after my heart has thumped several beats. “For now, I wish to show you more of Mars.”
TO BE CONTINUED...
~~~~~~
ANGELIC FORECAST ~
For the following week a three-ring circus of events will take place around the world. Few of them good. The Summer Solstice energies will bring about a sharp rise in all the dynamics playing out on Earth. Good will become larger, but so will evil. This will force an even greater division among people, in how they view the world, and what they perceive as truth.
Hang onto your soul. Hang onto your moral compass. And, trust in your Inner Wisdom. As the world spins ever faster, and life becomes more complex, and more dangerous this will become your saving grace.
Betrayal will be one strong theme for this week, and beyond. The spotlight of justice will shine strongly on the Betrayers. Even so, many will not see. Many will refuse to see. For those who do, they will take actions that will shake, then rock the entire globe.
As the old age gives way to the Aquarian age, and the AWAKENING flashes to even greater heights, THOSE who would control humanity will use the failing economy as a battering ram to bring about their rule. It is wise, at this point, to consider every option that will bring about any measure of self-sufficiency.
On a personal level, this is an excellent week to sit back and observe how your life is progressing. Decisions you make after this will be more effective, and long lasting. Also, look for viable ways to store food and all those items you need in an emergency. There will be no lessening in the fierce weather outbreaks, and other emergency situations.
Along with the Summer Solstice, this week is the beginning of a new cycle. It could be called the Cycle of Becoming. That is, you and every living thing on Earth is entering a period of acceleration, of expanding toward your true potential at an unprecedented rate.
Trendwise, every known and newly discovered aspect of angels and demons will become the focus of many. This will be due, in part, because so many of us will be able to see angels, whether as light, as light beings, and also in their human forms. Because the angels are walking among us now.
Angelic blessings from Volcano & Sedona
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Warning!!! The global elite [New World Order] does not want *you* to read this book. See ~ Powerful Dreams at my Kougar Kisses blog.
WHEN A GOOD ANGEL FALLS
Where angels fear to tread, 2012 Earth ~
Is a stranger on a superspeed motorcycle her savior from the brutal endtimes?
Blurb: Winter Solstice, December 21, 2012 – The end of the Mayan Calendar
What happens when a world weary, worn out incarnated angel, Sedona, who believes she is merely human has three choices after her old van breaks down?
~~~ IN PRINT ~~~ a former #1 on Siren-BookStrand’s bestseller list
Author Discovery by Lindsay Townsend, BookStrand author of FLAVIA’S SECRET, A SECRET TREASURE, BLUE GOLD, BRONZE LIGHTNING, SILK AND STEEL, HOLIDAY IN BOLOGNA and CHASING RACHEL ~
WHEN A GOOD ANGEL FALLS ~ adventure fantasy erotic romance ~ available from Siren-BookStrand ~
~~~
~ HAVE A MAGICKAL SUMMER SOLSTICE ~
Kisses from Savanna Kougar...
~ Run on the Wild Side of Romance ~
Siren-BookStrand Author of ~
All Shades of Blue Paradise
[World of the Blue Pearl Moon, Book 1]
When a Good Angel Falls ~ In Print
[Winter Solstice 2012, Book 1]
Murder by Hair Spray in Gardenia, New Atlantis ~ In Print
[New Atlantis Trilogy, Book 1]
Her Insatiable Dark Heroes ~ In Print
[Chrontropolis, Book 1]
Stallion of Ash and Flame ~ In Print
Branded by the Texans ~ IN PRINT ~ A Siren-BookStrand Bestseller!
[Three Star Republic]
Kandy Apple and Her Hellhounds ~ Coming from Siren-BookStrand, August 2011 ~ What happens when two of Hades’ most mission-accomplished Hellhounds find just the right witch for Halloween?
Saturday, June 18, 2011
The Arrangement up for book of the week at Whipped Cream Reviews
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
4.5 Stars for Bounty: Wicked Missions 3!!
I'm thrilled to announce that Alberta at Manic Readers gave Bounty: Wicked Missions 3 a beautiful 4.5 star rating!!
Here's what she had to say:
MR Review
Rating: 
Reviewer: Alberta
Review:
Hannah Bates has made some enemies in her career as a bounty hunter sometime in the future. The Dracorians will do anything to gain revenge on her for what she did to them. They have now kidnapped Leah, the daughter of Wulf and Eric, two male mates who are also bounty hunters. The price the Dracorians are asking to get Leah back is for Wulf and Eric to deliver Hannah in exchange.
They manage to outwit Hannah and take her prisoner, but neither is prepared to fall in love with her, and neither could imagine asking her to become their mate. She’s not averse to the idea of having two male mates, and apparently in Raines’ future society, different species and sexes and sexual persuasions can all mate with no problem or jealousy.
The two men don’t want to lose Hannah, nor do they want to risk Leah, so they bank together with Hannah’s adopted son, who looks, but certainly doesn’t act like a teddy bear, and Hannah’s friend who has blue skin and blonde hair. All are fierce warriors, but can they outwit the sneaky Dracorians?
Loved Bounty, wanted more, loved the characters, wanted more and loved the sex, wanted more.
Wednesday's Words for June 15, 2011
It’s hard to remember what it was like to not be a published author. Maybe it’s different for those authors who went the traditional route, got an agent and then a New York contract.
If that had been my reality in August of 2006—if, instead of getting an e-mail from Siren-Bookstrand, and embarking upon the journey of e-publishing, I got one from an agent instead—then I suppose it might be easier to remember the before times, because I doubt I would be standing at 22 novels published a mere 4 and a half years later.
You’d be right if you guessed I must spend most of my time writing. But when I try to recall how I imagined this would be, I don’t think I ever gave much thought to the actual process of the writing itself.
I envisioned the altered state of being a published author; I envisioned not having to hold a j-o-b; but I don’t think I thought overmuch about the actual work I would be doing, crafting stories.
I say crafting, because as much as this is an art, it is also a craft. The word ‘art’ implies that there is something transcendental about the whole thing, something maybe a little mystical, a little esoteric, a Divine gift, if you will. To a certain extent, for all of us who are writers, this is true.
Now the word ‘craft’, on the other hand, implies a deliberate honing of a skill; a practice-makes-perfect approach, a constant search for new, better, different ways to tell the stories. This is the most true aspect about being an author for the vast majority of us.
In each of us the ratio of God-given talent to acquired skill is different. In myself, as much as I wish it were otherwise, I’d say the ratio is 40-60. My father was a writer; if he hadn’t set it aside when he left school and went to work to first support his mother, and then later, his wife, who knows where his talent and work ethic would have taken him.
Of course it really is pointless to wonder. Life evolved as it did. This is my reality. I know that I have talent; and I know that I am a good writer. I am not, sadly, a great writer.
Someday, I might grow into being one, if I work hard enough at it.
Being a great writer to me has nothing to do with the genre you write. You don’t have to be an author of literary works in order to achieve greatness.
How would I define a great writer? One who is able to give you, within his or her words, an image so clean, so pure, that you not only see it, but you make it your own. As you read their words the writer disappears for you and you say to yourself, “yes, I am there. I can see it and hear it and taste it and touch it and smell it. It is real to me.”
I don’t fool myself by thinking of myself as particularly successful, and certainly not—as a friend of mine keeps telling me that I am—famous. At most, I have achieved a modicum of success and a measure of notoriety.
The latter, I would wager, as much as a result of these weekly essays as the 22 novels I have had published.
That is not to say that I am not pleased with who I am and where I am in my life. I am, and almost giddily so.
I get to do what I love to do most in all the world, all the time. I earn a living doing this that I love, and the most amazing thing of all is that people actually read my books. Lots and lots of people read my books, and isn’t that a miracle?
You have to have a dream in life, a reason to get up every day, to continue to put one foot in front of the other as you travel your particular path in this life.
Even at my age, even at where I am, right now, I have a dream. And each day I do my best to take as many steps as I can toward seeing that dream come to fruition.
I have the best life!
Love,
Morgan
http://www.bookstrand.com/morgan-ashbury
http://www.bookstrand.com/cara-covington
http://wednesdayswordsbymorgan.blogspot.com/
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
5 Star Review for TAMING JENNA and Giveaway
Taming Jenna - is an erotic cowboy ménage trois with unique and unforgettable
characters -Jenna, Connor, and Trevor (two hot rugged cowboys and one cowgirl).
The love scenes between the three were highly erotic, thought provoking and wild
beyond my imagination. I applaud Stacey Espino, the author, for writing a ménage
trois with well-developed characters whose stories/backgrounds made the love
triangle feel more meaningful and heartwarming.
This story contains several sex scenes, toys, sexual domination, double
penetration, and more.
Things I loved about the book.
1. The plot flowed smoothly and didn't have any slow points that typically make
me want to put a book down.
2. The men were drool worthy.
3. The love scenes were HOT.
4. The settings, the descriptions, and the play toys were described in a way I
felt like I was watching a movie.
5. The overall plot was realistic. It didn't seem phony or forced in anyway. I
could actually picture the story happening in real life.
I won't forget this wild western romance set in modern times for quite some
time.
I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Angelic Forecast ~ #145
His hand enfolds mine, his touch becoming wonderfully familiar. “Let me show you an unguent you made, one I have saved for this time.”
Okay, my heart skips several beats. Still, I’m able to utter, “Is this a way of awakening my memories of that lifetime?”
“That, and much more. Much more, my Sh’raka.”
Trembling like a wind-blasted leaf inside, and giddy as an excited child, I follow his lead. We pause before a pink-tinted, palm-sized jar that sits atop a lovely pedestal.
After releasing my hand, he lifts the jar. With a deft touch, he unseals it, and presents it before me.
“Smell,” he encourages.
The rose fragrance nearly assaults my nostrils, yet in a beautiful way. The perfume of the unguent is so unbearably exquisite, I simply inhale for several moments. I feel as if I’ve entered a dream state, one where only happiness is possible.
“I made that?” I speak once the dreaminess subsides a bit.
“Yes.” He pauses, and I feel the weight of his thoughts. “You made this skin embellishment for the time we were reunited.”
Everything explodes inside me, yet softly. Yet, immense. Whatever is going on inside me is so immense I can’t process it. Still, I manage to say, “I’ve never smelled that particular rose scent. It’s divinely luscious.”
“The rose is from our garden. Here, let me show you.”
I quiver as he places his huge palms on my temples, embracing my head. The images begin immediately. It’s surprising to me that I can even focus on them. His nearness has me, to the say least, hot and bothered.
Before my mind’s eyes, I see a gleaming terrace in a pyramid shape, except the apex is flat. There is a large garden area, and palm type trees gently sway. There is also an abundance of shades-of-green vegetation I don’t recognize. And flowers. Blooms are everywhere. Most of them look tropical and remind me of Hawaii.
However, interspersed in the garden are large patches of roses. I see both bushes and climbing vines with pink and red roses. Some of the blooms are small, yet lush with petals. The other roses are much larger, their color incomparable. Insects buzz about, and I recognize bees and dragonflies.
“Where?” I whisper. “Where is that?” Yes, it all looks familiar. Yet not. My psyche feels split.
Gripping my shoulder gently, he turns me. I see a rectangular doorway. Through it is the garden. For moments, I can’t think.
“That is our gateway home,” he intones behind me. “However, now is not the time. There remains too much to accomplish here. In this time.”
“Yeah,” I murmur seconds later. “Super crises after super crises. The rise of freedom. The awakening. And, a new awareness. It’s all coalescing for 2012.”
TO BE CONTINUED...
~~~~~~
ANGELIC FORECAST ~
For the following week, and several weeks, turmoil will crash and splash around most of us. At the same time, awareness blossoms like a new rose greeting the bright morning sun.
Right now, the mind, heart, soul, and spirit of humanity is being expanded by several cosmic forces at a rapid rate. This is one reason many of us are feeling off kilter. There is a different rhythm to life, as well, one that is emerging gradually, yet forcefully.
This week The Great Deception begins. Every bold ruse will be used to convince the people that their welfare depends on THOSE who are parasitical by nature, yet masquerade as in-the-know leaders.
Beware. These dark-siders will stop at nothing to bring about their diabolical plans for the planet.
Look for it. More truth will be laid bare this week. It will be exposure after exposure. There will be such an amazing array of truths, that these ‘revelations’ will boggle the mind of many. This dizzying speed is crucial to the AWAKENING of humanity, however.
Also of importance this week, is your personal growth. For several decades now, the divine energies have encouraged the maxim, know thyself. The tide turns at this point in history. Personal growth will be about utilizing your knowledge of yourself in such a way that it benefits the ascension of humankind.
This is because the fourth dimension is here, and the bells of freedom are ringing loudly.
In opposition to this fourth-dimensional ascension of humanity, there is likely to be a continuing use of massive violence by THOSE who want to stay in control. Remain awake and aware. Protect yourselves, and watch out for your loved ones.
Trendwise, there are two major waves about to strike. Clothing fashions are about to change dramatically for certain societal groups. This will have to do with the changes in their life circumstances, with the ongoing severe weather, and also a preference for living practically and responsibly.
Fashion trends will be reaching into the far future, and the designs will begin to reflect this. As well, the ‘creator’ is here. These individuals will be about expressing themselves as art, and will not bend to any set of norms.
The other major wave is ‘reading’. Even with the easy tech-access to image-focused media, reading news stories will make a strong comeback. In general, reading and research will be in vogue. This knowledge will assist in kick-starting a new renaissance.
Angelic blessings from Volcano & Sedona
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Warning!!! The global elite [New World Order] does not want *you* to read this book. See ~ Powerful Dreams at my Kougar Kisses blog.
WHEN A GOOD ANGEL FALLS
Where angels fear to tread, 2012 Earth ~
Is a stranger on a superspeed motorcycle her savior from the brutal endtimes?
Blurb: Winter Solstice, December 21, 2012 – The end of the Mayan Calendar
What happens when a world weary, worn out incarnated angel, Sedona, who believes she is merely human has three choices after her old van breaks down?
~~~ IN PRINT ~~~ a former #1 on Siren-BookStrand’s bestseller list
Author Discovery by Lindsay Townsend, BookStrand author of FLAVIA’S SECRET, A SECRET TREASURE, BLUE GOLD, BRONZE LIGHTNING, SILK AND STEEL, HOLIDAY IN BOLOGNA and CHASING RACHEL ~
WHEN A GOOD ANGEL FALLS ~ adventure fantasy erotic romance ~ available from Siren-BookStrand ~
~~~
~ HAVE A MAGICKAL FULL MOON JUNE ~
Kisses from Savanna Kougar...
~ Run on the Wild Side of Romance ~
Siren-BookStrand Author of ~
All Shades of Blue Paradise
[World of the Blue Pearl Moon, Book 1]
When a Good Angel Falls ~ In Print
[Winter Solstice 2012, Book 1]
Murder by Hair Spray in Gardenia, New Atlantis ~ In Print
[New Atlantis Trilogy, Book 1]
Her Insatiable Dark Heroes ~ In Print
[Chrontropolis, Book 1]
Stallion of Ash and Flame ~ In Print
Branded by the Texans ~ IN PRINT ~ A Siren-BookStrand Bestseller!
[Three Star Republic]
Kandy Apple and Her Hellhounds ~ Coming from Siren-BookStrand, August 2011 ~ What happens when two of Hades’ most mission-accomplished Hellhounds find just the right witch for Halloween?
~~~~~~
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Sold: Wicked Missions 4 coming June 20th!!
I'm thrilled to announce that Sold: Wicked Missions 4 is coming on Monday, June 20th!! Please allow me to share a story excerpt with you!
**hugs**
Elizabeth
AVAILABLE: Monday, June 20th
This new release is offered at a 10% discount for one week.
[Siren Ménage Everlasting: Erotic Futuristic Sci-Fi Ménage a Trois Romance, M/M/F, with M/M elements]
Blurb:
Lyrianna Seebré steals black market vaccinations from a drug kingpin to aid dying children. Captured in a raid, she’s wrongfully convicted and sentenced to forty years of hard labor. Upon arrival at the penal colony, she’s selected to be auctioned off to the male settlers of the newly colonized ocean planet, Pagonna. What is she willing to sacrifice for her freedom?
Settlers Carter Verdel and Brandon Hunt have created successful water-pod and island farms on Pagonna. The only thing missing from their lives is a woman. Able to afford only one concubine even when they pool their funds, they attend the annual auction, hoping to find someone to share their beds—and perhaps even their lives.
The men purchase Lyrianna, but can they overcome her resentment and win her love? And when the kingpin comes to Pagonna, seeking revenge against Lyrianna, can Carter and Brandon protect her?
A Siren Erotic Romance
STORY EXCERPT
Carter Verdel sucked in air for a good five seconds when he saw her. As she turned to face the crowd, her smoky eyes settling on each of the male faces shouting their approval, he couldn’t breathe at all. One by one, the rowdy men quieted as her gaze settled on them. When those eyes caught his, his heart kicked into a higher gear, slamming against his rib cage.
Did that incredible creature stare at him a little bit longer than any of the other men? Perhaps that was just wishful thinking.
Her ivory skin was clear and clean, her hair the shade of honey and long enough to reach below her slender shoulders. Her back was straight as a lance. She bore herself like a conquered queen—captured but not broken. Dressed in tight black leggings and a black tank top like the rest of the women, she wore them like the latest fashion, each gentle curve of her lithe body there for all to see and admire. Full breasts. Rounded hips. A tight backside. She glided across the auction platform, almost as if her tiny bare feet floated above the wood. Her chin lifted in defiance, she was practically daring the men in the crowd to claim her.
Carter would take that dare. Even if it cost him every single coin and money card he’d brought to the auction. Even if he had to borrow or steal more.
Glancing around, he noticed several of the men were such cowards they couldn’t even hold her gaze before they looked away. A woman like that was not what they came here for. They came for the women who were afraid and willing to do anything to survive on Pagonna. They sure didn’t bargain on a strong and independent creature like this.
He strained to listen for the auctioneer, pushing his way forward in the crowd. While he and Brandon had held quite a few discussions about what they were seeking at the sale, Brandon had left the ultimate choice in Carter’s hands, telling him he trusted his mate to find the woman to complete their perfect lives. Probably because Carter always led with his head rather than his heart.
The moment he saw the blonde, his heart took the reins.
Whether she was a criminal or not, he wasn’t leaving that auction without her.
Breathe. Be patient. See what they drive her price up to.
“Gentlemen,” the auctioneer shouted, “seems we’ve got a tempting one here.” He reached out to cup her ass, and her hand shot out to slap his face before he could even react. The sound was so loud that it echoed through the field, making most of the crowd burst out in guffaws in response. The auctioneer scowled at her as he rubbed his reddened cheek, but he quickly regained his aplomb and gave her a leering smile. “A feisty one, though. More than enough fire to keep you warm at night.”
“It’s plenty warm here already!” one of the men shouted back. “That much heat’ll burn ya!”
That response boded well. Carter had been right. Some of the men were actually afraid of her. Fools, the lot of them.
“I’ll give you a hundred uni-credits!”
“Hundred twenty-five unis!”
And so the bidding began while Carter waited patiently, calculating and ready to pounce as soon as the enthusiasm waned. Since the first woman was passably pretty and sold for the inflated price of five hundred universal-credits, he feared he might have to pay twice that much for this woman. He looked at her face again. Her eyes were now the color of the clouds before a lightning storm. Anger? Fear? Would they turn the same stormy gray when she was in the throes of passion?
Pay twice as much for her? Three times if he had to.
“Holding at four hundred-fifty unis, gentlemen. Hard to believe a specimen like this’ll go that cheap. What happened to your balls, boys?”
“’Fraid she’ll cut ’em off if I let her have a kitchen knife!” one man called back.
“What’d she do to get thrown in jail?” another asked.
“Now, boys,” the auctioneer cautioned, “you know the rules. You can’t ask that. Everyone who comes to Pagonna gets a fresh start.”
“That means she murdered her husband!” a laughing voice shouted, setting more hilarity through the crowd.
The beautiful woman’s chin rose, and a small smile tugged at the corners of her pink lips.
“Five hundred,” Carter said, just loud enough to be heard but with no emotion or enthusiasm at all. A hard task considering that his cock was now standing at attention, wanting him to promise anything and everything to secure this woman in their bed.
Her gray eyes settled on him, capturing him and holding him in her grasp. He wanted to sweep her into his arms, take her back to the farm, and make love to her until neither of them could move. Shit, he’d have a hard time waiting that long. He’d probably fuck her on the boat trip back.
What the hell was wrong with him? When had he been reduced to paying for sex with a woman?
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Wednesday's Words for June 8, 2011
Not very often, but every once in a while, I miss the halcyon days of my youth. We lived in a rural community—or as we called it in those days, “out in the sticks”.
Country living for us wasn’t graceful or privileged. This was back in the day when the wealthy still congregated to the cities, and the poor lived out on the land.
My father had died when I was 8 years old—he was barely 46. My mother, a nurse, worked at one of the hospitals in the city, about thirty minutes from home. Up until I hit grade six, I’d never been on a school bus, and didn’t even know they made male teachers.
In the spring – May and June – our air was filled with the smell of lilacs, lily of the valley, tulips and the fresh scrubbed aroma of rain. We had a term for that after-showers scented breeze . We called it, “fresh air”.
I miss the scent of fresh air nearly as much as I miss my parents. When I was 21, my mother passed away at the far-too young age of 56 – just three months shy of her 57th birthday.
I’ve been thinking these things lately because, as of today, I have lived to be 39 days older than my mother. I’d already passed the first milestone—living to be older than my father—nearly a decade ago.
This latest milestone is one I was never certain that I would reach. I’d had a heart attack when I was 48, followed a few months later by emergency triple by-pass surgery. That surgery proved hard on me and I had a very long and difficult recovery.
As I was recovering, I honestly didn’t believe I’d live more than a couple of years more.
Of course, the jury is still out on that one, isn’t it? None of us knows how long we’re to have here on this earth. The uncertainty of life is something we don’t really become aware of until we’re older, or until we have our own mortality held up in front of our faces.
Time moves faster now than it ever did. The days speed past, and sometimes I wonder how I can let even a moment slip by. Some days, there’s such a sense of urgency inside me. The clock is ticking. Will I get everything done that I want to do? Will I be able to look back, satisfied that my time wasn’t wasted?
I try not to worry over much about it. Sometimes, if you focus too hard on the tiniest details, you miss the big picture. I try to spend my time as wisely as I can, and I try never to pass up an opportunity to lend a hand to someone else. I try to take care of the things—and people—I’ve been entrusted with, and try very hard not to take my foul moods (I do have them) out on others.
And yes, maybe I do waste time, just a little, or so it might seem on the surface. If I’m exhausted, I nap. I may take my morning coffee outside, sit on my front porch, and just watch the sunlight dapple through the trees and the squirrels and birds hard at work.
Sometimes I play silly games on my computer, just for the hell of it.
Maybe the secret to living the best life you can live is to find a good balance between meeting your responsibilities to others, and meeting your responsibilities to yourself.
And always, always being your own best friend.
Love,
Morgan
LOVE UNDER TWO FLYBOYS – LUSTY, TEXAS 4
NOW AVAILABLE
http://www.bookstrand.com/love-under-two-flyboys
Monday, June 6, 2011
Release Day for ~ TAMED BY THE DOM
Blurb:
Angelic Forecast ~ #144
“Tesla,” I say as his name pops into my mind.
“Yes, his knowledge and achievements are on Earth’s moon.”
I gasp.
“There is a breakaway civilization... as I’ve heard,” I say after several moments of letting his words sink in.
“Yes, many, my Sh’raka. One that is European. One that comprises the oriental races. The third is an African consortium. And, the fourth is the largest, with the most tentacles. It is comprised of the international corporations.”
“Well, no surprise there.” A change in temperature stops my thoughts. Instinctively, I turn looking for the draft of air now kissing my skin. “A presence,” I murmur.
“Yes, one of the guardians who watches over the temple. She is greeting you.”
“Greetings in return,” I say, and shiver in a good way. “Are there temple guardians on Earth?”
“No longer, as they are here. There are guardians. Those who live for thousands of years. Yes, my love, such beings reside on Earth. Yet, you are aware of them as a memory from another time.”
Love, he’d said ‘my love.’ I sizzle with a feeling close to walking on air. Not good. Obviously, there is something major between us. How can I ignore everything that has already occurred? Even as all of this overwhelms me, I am also processing his words, ‘memory from another time’.
His hand enfolds mine, his touch becoming wonderfully familiar. “Let me show you an unguent you made, one I have saved for this time.”
Okay, my heart skips several beats. Still, I’m able to utter, “Is this a way of awakening my memories of that lifetime?”
“That, and much more. Much more, my Sh’raka.”
TO BE CONTINUED...
~~~~~~
ANGELIC FORECAST ~
This week is the beginning of many changes. These changes will come rapid fire in both your personal life and on the world stage. Some of these will be land changes in concert with volcanic eruptions.
Confusion will reign at this time. Simultaneously, beyond this fog, a new clarity will arise for each of us. Insights, and greater knowledge is being downloaded from on high. As long as you remain open to this possibility, you will receive as needed.
With chaos on the rampage, these times are a huge challenge to most of us. The solutions needed will be a blend of the wisdom that has gone before and the wisdom that has never been. Innovation, trial and error, these are the keys.
However, the best key is LOVE. Always love. During these times, your heart will learn new ways to know love, and to love others. In time, you will simply know love when it’s offered to you, as opposed to the false words of love that compel.
There will be THOSE who will use every manner of deception to make you believe you should love them as your master, not as your equal. As well, THEY will want to enslave your ability to love.
This is one of the greatest dangers facing humanity as a whole. To whom do you offer your love? Your whole heart? It becomes crucial to offer your heart ONLY to someone who is worthy.
Spiritual love is just that, a universal way of loving ALL, and it remains in the realm of the ONE. However, in practical everyday terms, in these times of survival, offering your heart becomes a responsibility. For, the power of love must ‘not’ fall into the hands of THOSE who would use it for evil purposes.
There are great dangers this week. The economic collapse will continue despite any grand leadership words to the contrary. Events will escalate beyond the horrors now happening around the globe. This is because forces on the dark side are positioning themselves to rule as they have always desired. And, their tactics are unbelievably brutal.
Trendwise, this is a fabulous time to look for new ventures that will improve your economic circumstances. Be open to the guidance of your higher self, and look with new eyes. Hear with new ears. Think with new inspired thoughts. Each and everyday there are pathways being created just for you.
Angelic blessings from Volcano & Sedona
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Warning!!! The global elite [New World Order] does not want *you* to read this book. See ~ Powerful Dreams at my Kougar Kisses blog.
WHEN A GOOD ANGEL FALLS
Where angels fear to tread, 2012 Earth ~
Is a stranger on a superspeed motorcycle her savior from the brutal endtimes?
Blurb: Winter Solstice, December 21, 2012 – The end of the Mayan Calendar
What happens when a world weary, worn out incarnated angel, Sedona, who believes she is merely human has three choices after her old van breaks down?
~~~ IN PRINT ~~~ a former #1 on Siren-BookStrand’s bestseller list
Author Discovery by Lindsay Townsend lindsaytownsend.net, BookStrand author of FLAVIA’S SECRET, A SECRET TREASURE, BLUE GOLD, BRONZE LIGHTNING, SILK AND STEEL, HOLIDAY IN BOLOGNA and CHASING RACHEL ~
WHEN A GOOD ANGEL FALLS ~ adventure fantasy erotic romance ~ available from Siren-BookStrand ~
~~~
~ HAVE A MAGICKAL JUNE ~
Kisses from Savanna Kougar...
~ Run on the Wild Side of Romance ~
Siren-BookStrand Author of ~
All Shades of Blue Paradise
[World of the Blue Pearl Moon, Book 1]
When a Good Angel Falls ~ In Print
[Winter Solstice 2012, Book 1]
Murder by Hair Spray in Gardenia, New Atlantis ~ In Print
[New Atlantis Trilogy, Book 1]
Her Insatiable Dark Heroes ~ In Print
[Chrontropolis, Book 1]
Stallion of Ash and Flame ~ In Print
Branded by the Texans ~ IN PRINT ~ A Siren-BookStrand Bestseller!
[Three Star Republic]
Kandy Apple and Her Hellhounds ~ Coming from Siren-BookStrand, August 2011 ~ What happens when two of Hades’ most mission-accomplished Hellhounds find just the right witch for Halloween?
