Lion Like a Monday

Posted on March 27, 2023 by Silver James

This is the last Monday in March and this year, March reversed things–sort of. It kinda came in like a lamb and is trying to go out like a lion–especially in the southeast. Terrible storms in Mississippi and Georgia over the weekend. Anyway, March is on the way out, April and the Fools will be her soon, and Easter follows.

The end of March also means Opening Day! Yayayay! My St. Louis Cardinals open up at hom against the Blue Jays on Thursday, March 30. Busch Stadium puts on a whale of an opening dfay ceremony and I’ve been known to DVR it if I was going to be out of pocket. The Budweiser Clydesdales make an appearance, along with the Cards’ Hall of Famers, and the starters are all deloivered to homeplate to line up for the national anthem. Cool stuffs right there.

In other sports news, Stormy’s soccer team won 4-0 and he received one of the Players of the Week awards because he assisted in all four goals and used teamwork (which was the inspirational word of the week) to help his team score. It was a beautiful day–shining sun, no wind, and temps in the 50s but warm enough with a jacket and sitting in the sun. It was a nice way to end the week of his birthday. No party this year because they took him to Ireland, Wales, and England. My OSU Cowgirls swept the 3-game weekend conference opener against the Baylor Bears. They’re still #2 in the rankings.

On the downside, LG was in a wreck on Thursday. It sounds like the insurance company is considering totally this truck. 😞 Evidently, while the damange doesn’t look too bad on the surface, there’s enough that it might be cheaper for the insurance company to total it than it would be to repair. That, of course, leaves us in a bind of having to find a replacement truck for whatever they give us because making a car payment right now? Not happening. Sadly, the semi that forced him off the highway didn’t stop so there’s no way to get more from that insurance carrier. On the good side, he wasn’t hurt beyond being a little stiff and sore.

I’m still waiting on an appointment for my refraction so I can get the eyesight corrected. Once I can see close up, I can get back to serious work. This whole worki-for-5-minutes-get-blurry-eyed mode sucks hind tit.

Life is a bit on hold. This having one car thing is an adjustment so I’m not sure if I’m going to Wallyworld today or tomorrow. It depends on LG’s commitments and places he needs to be. It’s way early and he’s snorting away so I’m not waking him up to ask.

So that was my up and down week. Hopefully no rollercoaster this week. How was your weekend and what’s on your agenda for the week?

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Friday Sinma: Polka Party

Posted on March 24, 2023 by Silver James

Catchy tune. Crazysauce effects. And a cat with rhythm. This has no purpose but sheer, inane fun. I dare you to sit still. Me? I’m imitating both the cat and the girl. Also, I love how the people in the background just ignore everything. 😉 TGIF and have an awesome weekend!

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Thursday Thoughts: Universal Yep

Posted on March 23, 2023 by Silver James

I don’t always keep the messages I receive from the Universe. More often than not, I read them, thing, “Huh!” and delete them. Then there are the ones that click on the light bulb and I’m like, “Oh heck yeah!” Sometimes that kind of message is personal and sometimes I feel the idea is worth sharing. Then there’s the messages that hit me like a brick when it comes to my writing. Those definitely get shared. Like this one, which popped up in my inbox yesterday. I read it and thought to myself, “Self, doesn’t this pretty much explaing both why you write and why you read?” And myself replied, “Yep.”

Would it be as much fun, Silver, if you never stopped laughing? If there were never any clouds? If you were never challenged? If you were never alone? If you never heard the whole truth when it hurt? If you always knew what would happen, what to do, and where to go?

Or would you be like, “Beam me up, Bro!”

Yep,
The Universe
©www.tut.com

P.S. Relish the quiet, Silver, enjoy the mysteries, and welcome the whole truth.

Writers, isn’t this pretty much our basic process? I mean, seriously, who wants to write a book with no conflict, cloudy skies, no action, no adventure in whatever form. And conversely, as readers, we’d be bored to tears. I’m reminded of something Jerry Seinfeld once sait about his sitcom–“It’s a show about nothing.” Cavveat, I was not a fan but that comment stuck with me because tye truth is, if we write about nothing, if nothing happens, if the characters never discovered the truth, then neither does the reader. Today, I’m saying, ‘Yep!” I’m going to relish the quiet and remember to include some quiet times for my characters. I always enjoy the mystery shall continue to incorporate it, and yeah, by the end of each book, I want the truth of those characters and their story to come out. That’s my goal. What’s your goal today?

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Wednesday Words: Who’s Asking?

Posted on March 22, 2023 by Silver James

Midweek means words. It is Wednesday after all. I have new words. They aren’t fancy but they do move the overall story along and this scene happens closer to the end. I’m getting there. Slowly. Not very surely, but progress. So, what’ our #ThursdayThreads inspriation for today? This intriguing prompt:”Most of you never ask.”
****
Cory’s gaze flitted around the table and, like a butterfly fluttery across a spring meadow, landed on everyone’s face. They were flying home in the morning and this evening would be the last time they’d be with the children and Petro. She couldn’t shake the melancholy that shrouded her. The weather, a cold drizzle, matched her emotions perfectly.

She smiled ruefully as Duke squeezed her hand. He knew. He always knew what mood she was in. Her mentor had warned her when she became a member of Doctors Without Borders. He’d been right. She cared far too much. Even though these kids had only been in her care for a matter of days, she’d come to love all of them.

Conversation buzzed around her. The team was excited to get back to the USA. They’d been cold, wet, and miserable for a couple of weeks and the idea of lying in the sun on the beach in Key West appealed to them all. She understood the sentiment. She was homesick too but at the same time, she worried about what would happen after they left.

Sunk deep in her thoughts, she startled when Duke’s arm circled her shoulders. When had he stopped holding her hand? She turned wide eyes on her husband.

“You must be a million miles away, princess. Kin asked you a question.”

Blinking to focus, she said, “Sorry. What did you ask?”

“Marishka,” Kin said. “When would she be able to travel?”

“With the right transport, probably now. The infection is under control and she’s responding well to the chemo infusions.”

Kin and Meg exchanged looks, but Dom spoke up before she could question what they were thinking about.
“Whose ready to go home?” The cocky pilot raised his hand. “There’s a beach towel with my name on it.”

That spurred more lively conversation. Cory returned to her somber head space but one question caught her attention because its answer had been the root of her contemplation. Unable to identify who’d asked, she responded. “What?”

Loch was who answered. “What’ll become of the kids? After we’re gone, I mean.”

And there it was in a nutshell yet his inquiry still caught her off guard. She thought she’d been the only one worried about the kids. Despite all their missions, she’d never once heard any team member ask about the consequences of their actions or what would become of those left behind.

“Most of you never ask what happens next after a mission. Why now?”

“Because these kids are important,” Kin said.

“Exactly,” everyone chimed in.
****
And there you have it. Writers, feel free to beg, borrow, or steal the prompt to get new words. That’s what Wednesdays are for, right? Right! And readers, what a question you never ask?

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Tuesday Treats & Titles: Chicken Soup Books

Posted on March 21, 2023 by Silver James

Yesterday was crazy! I was home early in the morning, for a little bit around noon, and then got back from the doctor’s and LG errands a bit after 5 p.m. By that time I was pooped. It was dinner and baseball and early bed.  So, I’m having to think on the fly. Y’all have no ideqa how hard it is to pair food with a book. Then I have to play around with making a graphic because…hey! Pictures! And do the coding for the links and all that there technical stuff. LOL Today, I’m doing a quicky.

Two questions:

  1. Trending snack food in your house (espeically if nibbling while reading):
  2. Your favorite “chicken soup” book (you know the one you always pick up for a comfort read or to just read because you’re in a slump and you know this ONE book will satisfy you):

My answers:

  1. Fritos and Dean’s Onion Dip, Hey, Fritos are made from corn–a vegetable! And onions are good for you and sour cream is a cousin to yogurt and yogurt is healthy so I’m eating a healthy snack. Sh’up. That’s my story and I’m sticking to it.
  2.  NAKED IN DEATH by J.D. Robb. I truly don’t know how many times I’ve read this book. More than 10. Maybe more than 20. It’s the book that kicked me out of my depression way back when and got me writing again. It’s always the book I reach for when I’m slumping.

And there you have it, the abbreviated version of TT&T. Now ‘fess up, y’all! Treats and titles. What are yours?

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Monday Once More

Posted on March 20, 2023 by Silver James

It’s Monday. What does that keep happening? Of course, if you stop and think about it, NOT having Monday roll around would be a bad thing. Happy First Day of Spring! You can’t prove that it IS Spring by the weather here. Saturday night was a hard freeze, Sunday was barely into the 40s, and today? Who knows? The forecast says mid-50s, with a chance of rain overnight. We’ll see. First thing, though, is my Wallyworld run. Gotta stock up for the week, doncha know.

I’m still not doing much in the way of “work”–ie. writing. My vision is still settling on a “setting.” Sometimes, I can see the smaller print on the Tv from across the room and my borrowed readers work for my phone, computer, and menus. Other times, I can only see the medium letters and I have to add a magnifying glass to read the fine print up close. I have a follow-up appointment this afternoon and hopefully I can get some “closure.” I need to get back to work and right now, I last about five minutes reading on the computer before my eyes water. Even with the touch-screen that allows me to increase the size. Keep your fingers crossed for me.

The Kids got back from their spring break trip to the British Isles late last night. I don’t have all the detailsw but I think they had a good time in Ireland, Wales, and a little bit of southern England.

In sports news, my Cowgirls are currently #2 in the national rankings and they swept the tournament they played in over the weekend, winning all four of their games. They play North Texas on Wednesday and then start Big 12 Conference play this coming weekend against Baylor. Sadly, Puerto Rico lost to Mexico in the World Baseball Classic, but the USA came back with a rocking grand slam from Trea Turner to beat Venezuela Saturday night. Last night, they played Cuba. If I don’t fall asleep, I’ll update the score after the game. If I do, well, I edit this. As you can see, I edited this. LOL I did NOT fall asleep. Amazing game! USA won 14-2 over Cuba. Now they play the “unicorn.”wait to see who they play in the finals–Mexico or Japan. I do love me some good baseball!

In reading news, I’m still listening to Jennifer Estep’s Crown of Shards/Gargoyle Queen series. That’s plural. CoS is a trilogy and GQ is a spinoff trilogy. Newest book released last week and I’m about halfway through the second book so will be starting the new one soon.

Not much else going on in my world. I feel like Life is kind of on hold. I saw a LOL cat meme the other day and actually laughed out loud before I realized there’s probably a whole bunch of people who wouldn’t get it. You’d have to be familiar with “Laugh In” and Ernestine the Telephone Operator. Anyway, that’s how I feel about Life these days–“Is the party to whom I am speaking?” What’s up in your world?

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Friday Sinema: A Little Bit Irish

Posted on March 17, 2023 by Silver James

Happy St. Patrick’s Day. I think we’re all a bit Irish today. Luckily, I actually am part Irish–according to my DNA. Way back in the day, Only and I went to see Riverdance (with Michael Flatley) when they were on tour back in the 90’s when RIVERDANCE was such a phenonemon. The performance was magical and it was such an awesome mother/daughter bonding experience. There’s a new tour going around this year and yes, I’ve been tempted to check for tickets but haven’t. Instead, I found this video that explains the origins of Riverdance. Who knew? And what’s more fitting to feature today than this video? May you find your pot of gold today!

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Thursday Thoughts: Universal Results

Posted on March 16, 2023 by Silver James

The Universe is at it again. This popped up in my inbox yesterday. As soon as I read the email message, I knew I had to post the big U’s wisdom. While I look at it through the eyes and “mission” of a writer, it is a message that can touch everyone. I’ve been making excuses for not writing but after reading this? Yeah, I’ve found new resolve. Instead of focusing on how I’m going to finish CROSSFIRE, I’m just going to do it, no matter how long it takes because it’s not the how but the end result…

Think not of “how,” Silver, but only of what you want in terms of its end result.

The end, in thought, combined with baby steps in its general direction, will literally create the necessary circumstances, serendipities, players, epiphanies, ideas, and stories necessary to bring about your desire.

The hard part is done for you.

Your part is the easy part,
The Universe
©www.tut.com

P.S. In one line, Silver: The end result forces the “hows” that will yield the manifestation, as long as you keep physically moving.

Yes, it sounds easy and simple in theory. And, maybe, deep down, I actually believe that because my writing process is definitely outside the box and my characters and plots constantlysurprise me with circumstances, serendipities, new players, epiphanies, ideas, and hidden back stories. And that’s why I keep writing, despite the frustrations and distractions. Deep down, it’s fun. And when I type The End, it’s a real accomplishment. Today–and every day–I will keep moving forward, even it it’s only baby steps. If you keep moving, those baby steps become a mile. What about y’all? What do you want to accomplish?

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Wednesday Words: Don’t Laugh

Posted on March 15, 2023 by Silver James

So, I’m thisss close *holds thumb and forefinger about an inch apart* to typing The End on Crossfire. What little writing I’ve managed since the diagnosis and eye surgeries have been concentrated on scenes to finish it off. Until last week. The #ThursdayThreads prompt of “Don’t make me laugh.” sent me down a different rabbit hole. A scene from the Moonstruck Mafia WIP hit me out of the blue. So I wrote it. And expanded on it. And then spent the ensuing days wondering where the hell it fits in. This morning? I think I know, though it means some backtracking. Anyway, new words are new words no matter where they belong, right? Right! So, here you go in a rather “Way-back Wednesday” deveiation.
****
Ronan stood feet apart, hands clasped behind him, and stared out the wide windows. His back to the room, he didn’t need to see who was about to invade his office. He recognized the cadance of her footsteps and the scent that preceded her entrance. He didn’t turn around, remaining focused on the scene down on the Boston street. However, he didn’t miss the soft intake of her breath or the hammering beat of her heart. His own reaction, though better hidden, echoed hers.

“I’m here, Mr. O’Connor. What do you want?”

He almost smiled. Almost. “Thank you for coming, Ms. Brannigan.” He didn’t turn around. He couldn’t without adjusting the front of his slacks.

“Why am I here?”

“’Tis simple. I need your help.”

Maura snorted, the inelegant sound almost making him laugh, and he had to turn to face her, consequences be damned.

“Don’t make me laugh.” Her voice, tinged with bitterness, sounded brittle to her own ears. She wouldn’t—couldn’t meet his eyes. This man, he did things to her. Made her think things, want things, do things that were alien to everything she’d ever thought she knew about herself. He wasn’t trouble, he was danger personified. “You? In need of my help? Did hell freeze over when I wasn’t looking?”

“Yer boss has charged m’brother with another murder. He didn’t do it.”

His brogue was thick with emotion and she shoved her fists into her pockets to keep from reaching for him. She understood now. “I know.”

He studied her, his scrutiny unwavering. She bore the brunt of his gaze for only a moment before she glanced away. Ronan’s eyes reminded her of the ocean when a nor’easter churned up the water—a shade not quite gunmetal blue nor gray. They were intense and missed little. Despite the sexual tension between them, she was determined to keep things professional between them. The fact her boss was a royal asshole didn’t help matter. She was tired of getting caught in the middle of whatever machinations these two men were involved in.

She spread out her hands in a gesture of both futility and surrender. “There’s nothing I can do. Alex is handling Mick’s case himself.” She received a raised eyebrow and a look of pure incredulous speculation in response. “Don’e ask,” she said, preempting anything he might ask. “He got a judge to sign off on the warrant and sent his pocket-pet cops after Mick last night. I knew nothing about it until this morning when I got to the office.” Resigned, she dropped into an armchair facing Ronan’s desk.

“Who was she?”
“I’ve not a feckin’ clue. None of us do.”

She studied the carpet for a long moment before finally meeting and holding Ronan’s gaze. “That’s what I figured. They’ve manufactured evidence against him.”

“Will ya help him?”

She almost snorted again. “Mick has the best criminal defense attorney in the state. I don’t think Declan needs any help.”

Ronan shook his head and his expression indicated he thought she might be dense. “Not Declan. Bloody Crenshaw.”

The light bulb went off. A disgusted grunt escaped before she could contol it. “That cold day in Hell? Yeah, that’ll happen before I do anything to help Alex Crenshaw.”
****
I do miss Ronan and Maura. Totally need to finish, edit and publish CROSSFIRE so I can get back to my Boston Mob Wolves. Writers, feel free to grab the prompt and write inspired words. Also, share them here if you want. Readers, what’s made you laugh lately?

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Tuesday Treats & Titles: Bailey’s Irish Cocoa

Posted on March 14, 2023 by Silver James

I’m tagging the nearest leprechaun so I can do a little time traveling. We’re catching a ride on the way-back machine to 9th centery Ireland. The first three books in the Faerie Reign series were the first books I sold and were published. I still love them–the characters, the plots, the romance. There’s time travel and reincarnation. There are are Tuatha d’Danaan mucking about in human lives.  So, in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day this Friday, lets travel to one of my favorite places in the world–even though I’ve never been. Ireland is still on my bucket list. I’m gonna make this warm cocktail, curl up under a blanket and travel back to the beginning. Want to come along for the ride?

Bailey’s Irish Cocoa
The tasty addition of aromatic bitters enhances the taste of this hot chocolate cocktail. Mini-marshmallows and raspberries add both fun and “class” to this easy-to-make libation.

Ingredients
3 oz whole milk
1 1⁄2 teaspoon hot cocoa mix, plus more for garnish
2 oz Baileys Original Irish Cream Liqueur
6 dashes aromatic bitters
8 mini-marshmallows and 4 raspberries—skewered—for garnish
1 can whipped cream

Let’s Make It
1 – In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the milk with hot-cocoa mix and lightly stir.
2 -. Heat the bowl in the microwave in 15-second intervals until warm (about 2-3 times, depending on the microwave).
3 – Add Baileys Original Irish Cream Liqueur and aromatic bitters. Stir to combine.
Evenly divide the liquid between 2 mugs. Top with whipped cream, garnish with raspberry skewer and mini marshmallows. Sprinkle with hot cocoa mix.

Pssst you can add a bit of coffee if you want more caffeine. 😉

Go out and celebrate because on St. Paddy’s Day, we’re all a little bit Irish but please, if you got for the alcohol, please drink responsibly. The best Idea is to just stay home where it’s warm and dry, mix up this adult cocoa and read my books! Why? Because without the words, history is doomed to repeat itself. Just ask Becca and Ciaran, Moira and Duncan, Delaney and Riordan, or Abhean and Gweneth. If you could go back, do it over again, would you take a chance to find true love? What if you had no choice? In FAERIE FATE, two humans find out. Rebecca Miller and Ciaran MacDermot must discover the secret that will keep them together forever.

In FAERIE FIRE, Moira O’Connor and Duncan Ross face old grudges, family secrets, and vows intended but never sworn. They share memories of lives entwined then ripped apart. In the present day, he’s a SWAT sniper with PTSD and she’s the psychologist assigned to evaluate his fitness for duty. Will they find their HEA?

If you had one shot—just one chance to seize everything you ever wanted in one defining moment, would you capture it or let it go? Find out next in FAERIE FOOL. In a previous life long forgotten, Riordan “Rory” MacDermot vowed never to lose his heart. But then he meets Delaney Burns. Again. Can they find the magic to stay together this time?

In this final story, Abhean, Tir Nan Óg’s resident troublemaker and harper gets his.Manannan Mac Lir, the fae king of Tir Nan Óg, exiles Abhean in the human world until he finds the other half of his heart. Will he be too stubborn to recognize and claim Gwenyth Rily as his own? Find out in FAERIE FAITH.

You can buy the first three books as a digital box set at a reduced price. Just click on the pic with all the covers. The last book was part of an anthology series so you have to buy it seperately. To grab them individually, just click on the cover or the title. Who’s going to be wearing green come Friday? 🙋🏼‍♀️

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