Happy New Years!

Last year at this time, my husband and I had just welcomed our little guy Jackson into our lives and at that point, I had no idea the amount of time and patience a baby required. Well I learned fast! I had gone into motherhood believing that I would have time to devote to my writing when the baby was sleeping. That was problematic as Jack doesn't really like to sleep and when he was sleeping, I needed to be also.

Since then, I've learned the juggle many hats and at times my writing has fallen short, but at other times, such as NaNo, I committed myself and completed my goal. So last year, while I didn't meet my initial goals/resolutions, I did manage to get a lot done. At this point I'm not a published author, but I am a good mom.

I've smartened up this year and my goals are realistic (at this point to me):
1. Learn how to use Facebook effectively! (any tips, recommendations or suggestions, let me know!)
2. Master the Twitter universe.
3. Learn how to use Tribe and find a "tribe".
4. Learn more effective time management in every aspect of my life. This will allow me to write as much as I can, even in little spurts. Writing goals this year include starting a new project and finishing the editing process on the other two.
5. Learn how to write a synopsis and query letter.
6. Be happy and less stressed about trying to do everything. Focus on the things that I can do and be happy with that.

My last resolution, is also a wish that I have for all of you. I hope that wherever you are in your life or writing journey you have a happier year!

Are there any New Year's Resolutions that you want to put out there and commit to? Shout them out? Do you set resolutions or refuse? Why?

Happy New Year to everyone and may you all have the best year of your lives!

R.J.

Merry Happy!

Not much to say other than that, today. I'm sure we are all busy doing, being, and delighting in thoughts and actions far beyond our usual. So, to keep in the season of celebration, I've got a couple of indulgences.

Whether one is religious or not, the sound of voices raised in celebration is not a bad thing.  I'm a fan of the musical flash mob myself so I present this for today's prezzie.

And, for those of us crafters out there, I found something fun to do with the kids.

A friend of mine seduced me into getting a new phone and one of the toys I indulged in was an app for identifying the bright things in the sky at night.  The other day, I found a low tech application.  Check out this post on about.com and, if you have something suitable (who uses film these days?) try the constellations project.

No matter which hemisphere you are in, there are stars in it. And reasons to celebrate love, family, light.  Blessings on all of those, and Happy Merry to you and yours!

So this is Christmas!

       From all the Scouts at the Salon....

                   We wish you Merry Christmas

                                   and a Happy New Year!

Holiday Travel Audiobook Playlist

I have to admit, for the longest time I dismissed audiobooks out of hand. I just never understood the appeal and sort of assumed it was something that only old people or heavy commuters got into. Even when I traveled it didn't occur to me to give them a shot. Thankfully that has changed, and looking back, I'm shocked that I ever got through a long road trip without them.

Hubs and I made our usual drive back east for Thanksgiving and spent most of the way listening to the first two Harry Dresden urban fantasy novels, written by Jim Butcher and narrated by the fabulous James Marsters. Since I'm new to audiobooks, I don't have enough comparative knowledge to judge good and bad recitation, but I thought he did a darn good job of capturing Harry's deadpan, noir detective voice and we enjoyed the experience. We're looking at twice as much driving time as we make the rounds to visit the far-off rellies for Christmas, so we've been stocking up for maximum entertainment.

Here's our list so far (all from the library):

Summer Knight by Jim Butcher

The Laughing Corpse by Laurel K. Hamilton

The Wailing Wind by Tony Hillerman

Earth, The Book by The Daily Show with John Stewart

Our library also has a wonderful digital service where you can download ebooks and audiobooks to play or read on various devices. I've got some great stuff lined up there as well, including some Patricia Briggs, Isaac Asimov, and Kim Harrison.

When you're going to spend close to forty hours in the car during a week-long period, it helps to have a plenty of choices for every mood. Got any audiobooks you'd like to recommend? Which readers have impressed you the most? Let me know if you'll be listening to stories on your travels this holiday season.

Have a wonderful and safe holiday!
Ella

Review of Christine Palmer's Shadow Play

After a whirlwind month of NaNoWriMo, I was so pleased to be able to take a break from my writing and read. I was even more pleased when I received an advanced copy of the first book in the Others series, Shadow Tracker by Christine Palmer.

To be honest when I first picked up the book, I wasn’t too sure what to expect as the paranormal world is very different from the vamps and shifters that I normally read, but I instantly connected with the tough as nails heroine, Kyra. And then there was the hero. Whew! It was love at first description for Ryder. I also enjoyed the aspect Kyra and Ryder weren’t instantly attracted to each other. Both with strong romance hang ups and that truly were avoided the big “L”.

Each of the lead characters practically jumped off the pages. The emotional connect was strong and the backstory wonderfully weaved together. While the romance is strong and sexy, the plot was as equally drawing.

Shadow Tracker had me feeling all the emotions as we travel down through Kyra’s adventure physically and emotionally. The story was strong and it had suspense, romance and a surprise ending.

I would definitely continue reading the series and will be looking for it! If I had a star rating book system, I would give Shadow Track four sparkling Christmas stars.

 Shadow Tracker Description:

A small town in the mountains of Marshall, Montana is being plagued by an unknown entity. It’s mutilating and killing the women of the town. At his wits end the Sheriff of Marshall has nowhere to turn but to a friend. A friend, with the abilities to track and kill any prey.

Ryder doesn’t normally do mortal issues. However, he can’t turn his back on a friend. Besides he is the best at what he does. After all he is a Tracker, an ancient race with unparalleled abilities to track down any prey. With one of the three essential elements: Taste, Touch or Smell. Heartless and cold, Ryder knows what needs to be done and performs his duty without feeling.

Kyra, an Air Element and the only female Elemental Enforcer, is sent on a fact finding mission to Marshall, by the Druid Council. She needs to find out exactly what is happening in Montana before the Tribunal goes in and kills everyone.
The last thing she expects to find is a Tracker, and is even more surprised to find out that he is on her side. But can they get past their initial feelings upon meeting and the sexual tension? Or will the evil that is living in the mountain kill them both.

Ryder and Kyra must learn to work together to destroy the shadow and save Kyra from a fate worse than death. When pure evil is involved is love enough?

Author Bio

Christie was born and raised in a suburb of Salt Lake City, Ut. She lives less than a mile from the home she grew up in. World traveler she is not. But what she lacked in travel she more than made up for in her imagination. Within her vivid imagination she has traveled the world over as well as different worlds and different times.

She works a full time day job to pay the bills but loses herself in books and her writing whenever possible.

She is a loving mother of two wonderful children that she admits she is obsessed with. She has been married for 18 years to a very tolerant man that is grounded in reality in order for her to fly to the heights of her own imagination.

She started writing when she was a teenager after reading a book that she didn't like the ending too. Took a hiatus to raise her wonderful children but has dedicated herself to becoming a published writer for the last several years.

www.author-christiepalmer.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/christie.palmer.5011

Twitter: @christieauthor

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/11563672-christie-palmer

 

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A Familiar Journey

Today is opening day for Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey. The journey begins again for those of us who love the world J.R.R Tolkien’s created many, many years ago. I’ll be watching it this weekend so I have no spoilers for you guys yet. It’ll come in two weeks after I digested the film and the awesome visual presence on the big screen.

It reminds me when the first film of Lord of the Rings came out. I didn’t realize until after the film I treated myself to a great birthday present for that year and the next two. There were so many people I converted to the film version of the book. I myself can’t read the book, as much as I tried to push through the details of the world Tolkien spend so much time with.

I experienced each Lord of the Rings films on the big screen and the Hobbit movies won’t be any different. I may not be watching the movie with the same people but I know they will be watching it as well. No popcorn or a drink if I don’t want to rush to the restroom in the middle of the movie. Movie popcorn is the best but I don’t want to miss any moment of it.

If anyone wants to come and leave a comment after I post my review, please do so. I enjoy reading reviews since everyone shreds new light on the same material. Please leave a comment today and let us know at the Salon you will be joining us for review day.   

Numerology makes Holiday Shopping a Snap!

I found a fun way to take the stress out of holiday shopping that might appeal to fantasy lovers and metaphysical devotees alike. A simple understanding of numerology could really aide your gift giving!

Numerology, the ancient science of numbers helps you to “see” personalities by analyzing a person’s birth name and birth date. However, unless you are very close to the person, you probably won’t have that data. But, even if you don’t know their full name or birth date, even knowing the first letter of their first name and the first vowel will give you insight into their personality. 

Three ways to use numerology to determine that perfect gift:

1. To find someone’s birth number, simply add together their month, day and year of birth and then reduce to a single digit. Example: May 21, 1971     5 (May is the fifth month) + 2 + 1 (day of the month) + 1 + 9 + 7 + 1 (year) = 26.

Next, add the 2 & 6 numbers together:  2 + 6 = 8.

The ‘birth path’ number for this person is “8”

2. Alternately, to find someone’s number from the first letter and first vowel of their given name, use the following Alphabet Chart *.

#1- A, J, S    

#5 – N, E, W   

#9 – R, I

#2- B, K, T    

#6 – F, O, X

#3- C, L, U   

 #7 – G, Y, P

#4- D, M, V   

#8 – H, Q, Z

For example, if someone’s name is “Jenna,” her first letter would be “J” with a number value of “1” and her first vowel would be  “E” with a number value of “5.” Refer to both numbers for insight into their personality (*) 

3. Additionally, if you know the person’s full name at birth, just refer to the Alphabet Chart above and add together all the number values for each letter of their entire name. Then add together the final total, just as we did with the birth date, until you reach a single digit.

Example:  M A R Y    S  M  I  T  H (M)   (A)   (R)   (Y)      (S)   (M)    (I)   (T)   (H) 4  +   1  +   9  +   7    +   1 +  4  +    9  +  2  +   8 =45 (4 + 5) = 9

The final number for interpretation for Mary Smith would be the number 9.

Check below for a list of gift ideas based upon a person’s number. Remember that numbers are dual in nature, representing both earthly and spiritual tendencies. For that reason, the list is divided into what a person with that number wants and what they need.

I turned out to be a #3, which suits me perfectly, except I don’t care much for the color yellow. So, any gifts of meditation CDs, small pieces of art, or books would be wonderful!

Does your number match your personal preferences for gifts you’d like to receive? 

Give this a try for those folks on your list you struggle to buy for.

Gifts for the numbers 1-9:

#1   What they want: These people are unique and would enjoy any one-of-a kind gift. They like simple designs, angles and clean lines. Anything new, different or avant-garde would please them. Perhaps, the latest ipod – or try searching out places like Brookstones or the Sharper Image for some new gadget.  What they need: One’s (1) usually need calming, so a miniature Zen garden would be a good idea. Colors for 1 are all different shades of red.

#2   What they want: “Two’s are sentimental and love receiving gifts that are personal and have a lot of thought behind them. A poem you’ve written or something that can be shared, like tickets for a show, are sure to please. If you were close friends, they would cherish a lovely framed picture of the two of you together. Many 2’s like to collect things.  What they need: a day to pamper themselves, free from worry about other things and other people. Colors for 2 are all shades of orange.

#3   What they want: This is a person who likes to be entertained and pampered. They would love a day at the spa, a comfy robe and slippers, scented bath oils and soaps. They love words, so books or CD’s are always a good choice. They also love artsy-crafty things, trinkets and baubles. Just be sure to make a big fuss over them- they love to be the center of attention. What they need: 3’s are similar to the number 1 and need to settle down a bit. Try some meditation CD’s. Colors for a 3 are all shades of yellow.

#4   What they want:  Fours are sensible and down to earth. Anything practical or of the earth, will make them happy. They like organizers or a suitcase with lots of compartments. They also like to make bank deposits… so plain old cash or a savings bond would be a hit or perhaps a subscription to “Smart Money.” Make sure whatever it is, it is made to last. What they need: a ride on a roller coaster or something adventuresome to free their spirit. Colors for a 4 are all shades of brown and green.

#5   What they want: Fives are the adventurers and would love a trip! ( You can hook them up with a number “4” to help the  4 loosen up!) Or, you could take them someplace local (and different) that they’ve never been to before. They are also sensual beings, so something with texture or anything they can taste, touch or feel would be a hit. What they need: “tranquilizers”! …no.. no… just kidding, but they do need something to ground them a bit, maybe a stress reduction CD. Colors for a 5 are any shade of the lighter blues.

#6   What they want: Most 6’s really enjoy music and food or something cuddly. The most obvious combo would be: dinner and tickets for a concert. A CD of their favorite performer, in a basket filled with gourmet foods (and perhaps wine) would also be a hit. Sixes are also “nesters.” They love flowers and anything for their home, so something comfy and cozy will delight a six. What they need: to let someone else make all the decisions for them for a day! Colors for a 6 are darker shades of blue

#7   What they want: A seven can be quite fussy about what they like and want. They’re deep thinkers, like to acquire knowledge, can be mysterious and enjoy spending time alone. Go to the Discovery channel store. Educational books or CD’s or mysteries are great idea. They also like gift certificates, and many like antiques, because of their interest in history. Whatever it is, make sure it is of quality. What they need: to stop thinking, watch a silly movie with friends and laugh out loud. Colors for a 7 are shades of violet.

#8   What they want:  Eights love gifts – period. They especially like cash. If it’s a brand name, they’ll love it. A piece of jewelry, big or small, from Tiffany’s would definitely impress them. A signed piece of artwork from a local artist is also a great idea. Like their number  4  counterpart, 8’s also like to make bank deposits. (They love to make withdrawals too!)  Try a gift card or a subscription to “Inc.”  What they need:  a weekend at a spiritual retreat, where they can get in touch with their inner self. Colors for an 8 are: tan & gray. Some say rose.

#9   What they want: sentimental and sensitive, nines want to know you care. Something personalized, whether it is engraved or handmade, just for them, will touch their heart.  Nine’s are dramatic and enjoy the theater or a concert. They are humanitarians and interested in worldly affairs. A book or CD on either of these subjects would make a great gift. What they need:  similar to the number 2, 9’s need a day free of worry and stress about things they cannot control. Colors for a 9 are: gold or red-gold

Reference: Michelle Landers, OM Times Magazine, December 1, 2012.
~ ~ ~ Marsha A. Moore is a writer of fantasy romance. The magic of art and nature spark life into her writing. Read her ENCHANTED BOOKSTORE LEGENDS for adventurous epic fantasy romance: Book One, SEEKING A SCRIBE, Book Two, HERITAGE AVENGED, and Book Three, LOST VOLUMES. She has also authored the Ciel's Legacy series, with fast action mermaid/pirate storylines: TEARS ON A TRANQUIL LAKE and TORTUGA TREASURE.  For a FREE ebook download, read her historic fantasy, LE CIRQUE DE MAGIE, available at Amazon and Smashwords.