tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22266561061346089512012-01-22T09:25:35.477-06:00We're Romance Writers and These are the Days of Our Lives... Our often Unromantic Lives.Cynthia D'Albanoreply@blogger.comBlogger771100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-87663420805991020662012-01-22T09:25:00.000-06:002012-01-22T09:25:35.507-06:00

Fifty Authors from Fifty States: Cynthia D'Alba's Arkansas-A Rare Diamond Indeed

Cynthia D'Albanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-41161222170711444772010-08-22T07:07:00.000-06:002010-08-22T07:07:11.246-06:00

Girls Who Bite Editor: Delilah Devlin Publisher: Cleis Press in Fall 2011 Deadline: November 1, 2010 (earlier submissions preferred) Girls Who Bite is open to all authors. Editor Delilah Devlin is looking for lesbian vampire stories for a romantic erotica anthology entitled Girls Who Bite. “Dark hungers, shocking thirsts… For blood, for connection… A sharing of nourishment and comfort…

Shayla Kerstenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03712434264545304766noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-58807725235318075672010-03-15T09:17:00.003-06:002010-03-15T09:25:07.590-06:00

Join the Diamond State Romance Authors for a workshop on the basics of self-editing. The workshop includes tips on the elusive Show versus Tell, the evil Passive versus Active and points on Point of View! Plus we'll highlight the fine points of Pacing and Voice.The program will follow the noon business meeting at the Thompson Library on Rahling Circle in Little Rock on Saturday, March 20. The

Shayla Kerstenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03712434264545304766noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-87391904238322466872010-02-18T18:04:00.003-06:002010-02-19T11:38:44.488-06:00

So. You finished your manuscript. You've polished it, then polished it again. You've sent it out to the critique group. And a couple of writer friends. Then you polished it some more.You already know where you want to submit your book and now it's ready.Oh. My. God. It's ready.Butterflies take over your stomach. Not just sweet little fluttery things. We're talking monster butterflies from hell.

Shayla Kerstenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03712434264545304766noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-72230876933071695372010-01-30T14:06:00.000-06:002010-01-30T14:06:58.879-06:00

Writers need a bountiful toolbox of great software programs to ensure a healthy and robust manuscript. Google has programs to help with your organization, research, and writing. Have trouble planning your writing deadlines? Did you forget to save your latest manuscript edits in a backup file? Do you feel your location descriptions are weak and bland? Learn about Google Calendar, Earth, and

Brindanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-3180655623891301352010-01-18T11:22:00.006-06:002010-01-18T11:46:03.084-06:00

For most writers, procrastination usually has a basis in something other than just laziness. My number one reason for crying procrastination is writer's block--which is another way of saying I've written myself into a corner and I can't get out!Brainstorming usually works to plot your way out of the hole but how do you brainstorm? You can ask ten different writers and get ten different methods.

Shayla Kerstenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03712434264545304766noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-50279144775095918012010-01-17T16:56:00.000-06:002010-01-17T16:56:19.100-06:00

Diamond State Romance Authors (Chapter #210 of Romance Writers of America) will be updating our blog very soon! We have a new VP of Communications (Sara Houser) who is cracking the whip! see more Lolcats and funny pictures Stop by often and check the latest Arkansas Gossip! :)

ArkansasCyndinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-10607254872833566582009-08-09T14:06:00.002-06:002009-08-09T14:28:19.228-06:00

THE WINNER OF THE $15 GIFT CERTIFICATE For The Wild Rose Press IS ~ ~ ~ DRUM ROLL PLEASE! KERI FORD!

Mary Ann Webbernoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-19486786836451324682009-08-06T19:26:00.003-06:002009-08-06T19:34:14.243-06:00

Thank you for letting me do my Blog Tour stop here!Thank you for commenting on a romance genre most of you don't read!And - Most of all --- Thank you for letting me come home to Arkansas - at least cyber-ly!Love to all,Mary Ann Webber

Mary Ann Webbernoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-51741320227741878742009-08-06T19:16:00.000-06:002009-08-06T19:22:49.754-06:00

I'm very Sorry I haven't replied to any of your comments. I appreciate your kindness more than you know!!!My daughter had surgery on her liver on Tuesday (the kind where they send cameras down the throat)She was released about two hours later. Of course the meds wore off during the day and by Wednesday (yesterday) she was in dreadful pain. They readmitted her to the hospital last night and say

Mary Ann Webbernoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-34330113166704817222009-08-05T04:44:00.000-06:002009-08-05T04:44:00.373-06:00

Posted by Mary Ann Webber: <!--[if gte mso 9]> Normal 0 false false false MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]> <![endif]--><!--[if !mso]> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } <![endif]--> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:Wingdings; panose-1:5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0; mso-font-charset:2;

ARCyndi/Dr. Cynthia Morgannoreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-64178637759385950932009-04-18T06:58:00.001-06:002009-04-18T06:58:30.633-06:00

Hey all,Come out and see me today at 2:30 in the East Room of the Main Library in downtown Little Rock. I'm presenting as part of the Arkansas Literary Festival. I've worked hard on my presentation and may be cajoled into standing on my head at some point during the afternoon so don't miss it!Learn more about the festival here:http://www.arkansasliteraryfestival.org/Hope to see a few of you,

Stacey Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11486628828542357038noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-55859732764275600032008-12-19T13:38:00.019-06:002009-01-02T14:05:08.829-06:00

Every group needs some diversity. I provide that on several levels for Diamond State Romance Authors. I'm not the only member of this Arkansas group who lives in Texas, however I believe I'm the only one who writes historical romance. Also, I seem to be the only member who writes "sweetly sensual," non-erotic fiction. I'm also a grandmother.Hey, every group needs someone like me! And writers like

Mary Ann Webbernoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-66457063993824910682008-11-08T10:19:00.005-06:002008-11-08T10:58:44.087-06:00

Plotting Bootcamp, that is. Last January, the Diamonds were invited to attend a Plotting Bootcamp Weekend at Stacey's house. Our willing and able hostesses were the girls from Rose's Colored Glasses. We converged on Stacey's house for two days with a basic premise for a story, suitcases for our stay, and food (aka chocolate). But what I took away from the weekend will last much, much longer. Of

Sandinoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-55889964162000500752008-09-27T18:06:00.005-06:002008-09-27T18:19:30.756-06:00

Great post, Shada. I thought I'd upload a few pictures I took at the September Meeting.Elle James Displays a couple of her Harlequin Intrigues.Elle brought a selection of her books for us to look through.This is Gina Wilkins - author of 94 Harlequin and Silhuette books. If anyone can talk about building a career writing category books, then Gina's your gal!(L to R) Anna J Evans, Gina Wilkins,

Arkansas Cyndinoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-66181861756494698492008-09-21T12:29:00.005-06:002008-09-27T18:06:13.961-06:00

This months DSRA meeting was a great success. The meeting began as usual with our business meeting where we handed out our member milestone pins. Here is mine:Each charm means something different. I have two 'diamonds' on mine (really beautiful chrystal beads) which represent my two sales, then I have an Arkansas charm, a silver star for being a PRO Member, an inspirational charm for each

Shada_Roycenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-81522433362138699042008-08-07T10:35:00.003-06:002008-08-07T10:45:48.518-06:00

About now you have the image of Marilyn Monroe singing the song and you’re thinking “what does this have to do with romance writing?” As a new romance writer (from here out self-proclaimed ‘newbie’), I think this song is a perfect explanation to sum up the benefits of membership in the Diamond State Romance Authors.And this blog, ‘Diamonds in the Rough’ is being revived to inform those who are

Shada_Roycenoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-76504356645466809372007-05-25T21:58:00.001-06:002007-05-25T22:10:44.496-06:00

This week, one of the first, and most successful, romance authors' blog announced they are shutting the doors. Squawk Radio is done. Over. Finished. Well, not yet but as June 2.And over at Ms Snark...she's hanging up the whips and chains and going out while she's still on top (her words, not mine).Who will be next in the time-big blogger to throw in the towel?Has blogging gone out of style in

Arkansas Cyndinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-66488066348445064872007-04-30T09:59:00.000-06:002008-12-10T22:29:03.330-06:00

No, I’m not talking about Whitney. Yesterday one of my favorite things came on TV. Cheerleading on ESPN. For those of you who don’t know, I cheered for six years through my high school experience. During that time, I lived to cheer. I was one of the smallest on my squad and I was THE loudest. Being one of the smallest, I was also the flyer (girl thrown up in the air). Lots of the time I was in

Keri Fordnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-72817074057742367412007-04-24T11:53:00.000-06:002007-04-24T11:55:43.565-06:00

Found a new place for me and are checking it out. Seeing who's and what's there.http://crimespace.ning.com/profile/ArkansasCyndiYou know, I've decided that there is a whole business in just keeping up blogs, personal webpages, crimespace page, myspace page, etc. How does everyone balance or better, how much time does a professional writer give to such endeavors? And is it really worth all the

Arkansas Cyndinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-58236431359141523212007-04-19T09:48:00.000-06:002007-04-19T09:52:46.020-06:00

I'm half-way through two different voice classes and no, I still have no idea what my "voice" is. Can you tell I'm frustrated! These ladies I'm in class with are smart and sharp. Their individual insights into themselves as well as the others in the class has been impressive.So, do you know your own voice? Can you describe it? Put your finger on it? Can someone throw a lifeline explanation?

Arkansas Cyndinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-22680186140741584492007-04-08T16:30:00.000-06:002008-12-10T22:29:03.690-06:00

Everybody say hello to Brady Matthew! On Saturday, April 7, 2007 at 3:31pm, our first little bundle of joy entered the world. Brady weighed in at a hefty 6lbs 9oz. and 19 inches long! It looks as though his eyes are leaning toward brown. In the photo above, Brady's in the center, the man with the goofy 'Look what I did' smile is my hubby Matt, and the rough looking woman is me :). We were doing a

Keri Fordnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-82277372476625252032007-04-07T14:44:00.000-06:002007-04-07T15:08:20.397-06:00

How's your April going? Mine has turned into "continuing education" month. I'm not sure how it came to be, but I am taking three online courses this month!I was fortunate enough to get into Barbara Samuels's voice class. I've heard about this class for so long that I was anxious to find out what all the hub-bub was about. But honestly, I was also curious about "voice". I had always equated "voice

Arkansas Cyndinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-39867245330880409922007-04-02T08:20:00.000-06:002007-04-02T08:26:39.805-06:00

It's that time again...About twice a year I get inspired and start subbing madly to a bunch of agents--pitching my latest work which I'm sure is THE ONE that will finally land me that coveted representation. The query letters stream out, and the rejections stream back in, and in that mix I usually find one or two agents who are willing to look at the first 3 chapters/50 pages/etc.This is when the

Anna J. Evansnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-18124230415330742242007-03-23T20:55:00.000-06:002007-03-23T21:06:38.410-06:00

Monday was Mammary Monday.Tuesday was "shots in the knees".Wednesday was "knee recovery".Thursday was "Work in the yard". Today was MASSAGE Friday!Without a doubt, today was the best day of the week! I have the guy who does mine massages. I've had female massage therapists and male. He is one of the best. Can really get in those neck muscles. You know the ones I mean. The ones that get so stiff

Arkansas Cyndinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-41378513882219658172007-03-19T21:52:00.000-06:002007-03-19T22:07:55.805-06:00

Inspiration. I'm always searching for it. Always. So when I find it, I use it until its beat to death in my mind. And then my search continues...Music. I need it. I crave it. I listen to a song and my mind automatically spins tales. Most of my books are written with a soundtrack. Each chapter I can tell you what song played over and over in my iPod. I have over 900, but it couldn't handle any

senanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-28816128618174151102007-03-19T13:53:00.000-06:002007-03-19T14:00:15.790-06:00

Today was mammogram day. Such fun, huh? Went to UAMS. They have the coolest digital machine. No x-ray developing. No waiting to see if the picture is "good enough". Tech looks at it right then on the computer.This isn't new, I know. I've been having digital mammograms for a while, but I realized last night that not every hospital has this technology! Just as an FYI - not as "smashing".But here is

Arkansas Cyndinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-77819651811446688632007-03-16T21:14:00.000-06:002007-03-16T21:37:52.446-06:00

An article came through RWA's Chapter Newsletter Editor's loop this week. I am restricted by RWA regulations from posting it, but nonetheless, it hit the mark with me. The subject? Reconnecting with passion in our lives...no, not what Shayla, Anna and Myla write! It's the passion we feel for things that are important to us. You know...when you're excited to get up in the morning and get to that

Arkansas Cyndinoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-40109493562776679202007-03-12T08:39:00.000-06:002008-12-10T22:29:04.098-06:00

I'm sorry, I just love this picture. But I apologize if I've grossed anyone out already. I think this guy is adorable in a weird sort of way, and today I'm thinking of him as a Pied Piper, leading the way to exciting changes.I'm half way through my first Young Adult romance! I'm so excited. It's been such fun to write, and such a relief to know that I can still write something that isn't at least

Anna J. Evansnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-64797775350183148452007-03-10T10:36:00.000-06:002007-03-10T10:37:06.121-06:00

Here lately I haven’t been sleeping all that well at night. From what I’ve read, its nature’s way of preparing my body for 3 a.m. feedings. I’m curious to know why nature isn’t preparing my husband, because he’s not finding any trouble snoring all night long. Any way….When I do sleep, I dream. I dream hard and consistently. If I fall asleep thinking, I dream about whatever I’m thinking. It’s to

Keri Fordnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-62330231798388977182007-03-06T20:45:00.000-06:002007-03-06T20:51:38.978-06:00

So, the due date is steadily getting closer. And while it's doing that, I can't help but wonder, what knowledge could I possibly have to pass down to my little one? So, I've thought about it, and made a list of things I learned the hard way while growing up. It includes little things from my toddler years to now.Do NOT put peanut butter in the refrigerator.Even though they look the same, Baking

Keri Fordnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-47329970587484581782007-02-26T21:18:00.000-06:002007-02-26T21:19:57.362-06:00

Keri here. I always knew my husband and I were both pack-rats. I just didn’t realize the extent of our packing and storage habit until my mother and I started cleaning out the house in preparation for the baby. And I know what some of you are thinking, “Honestly, how much stuff could be stored in a three-bedroom single-wide with those tiny closets and tiny spare bedrooms?” I’m here to tell you

Keri Fordnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-80488572787435841782007-02-22T02:30:00.000-06:002007-02-22T02:41:46.671-06:00

When is your time to write? Are you a morning person? Someone who springs out of bed, grabs a quick cup of (fill in the blank here.....coffee, tea, Coke) and your mind is already spinning with ideas? If so, I hate you. I want to be a morning personIf you check the time of this post (if time is even shown in blogger), I'm writing this at 3:30 am. That is, unfortunately, the time my mind like to

Arkansas Cyndinoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-5141375695104319112007-02-18T12:47:00.000-06:002007-02-18T13:22:41.753-06:00

Life in Florida for this Arkansas gal has been great. While the folks back home have suffered with temps in the teens, snow, sleet, and generally lousy weather, here in Titusville the natives complain if the daily high is less than 53! The forecast for this week is for temps getting near 80 by Friday. I know I should feel guilty...shouldn't tell the folks back home about the weather, but as I sit

Arkansas Cyndinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-40384343806003405322007-02-09T22:15:00.000-06:002007-02-09T22:35:47.152-06:00

How do you function when someone is sick? Not sick as in a cold, but dying?My past, I'm sure, is like a thousand other women. Bad childhood. Bad family. Bad life. So, when I was rescued by my then boyfriend, now husband, when I was a kid, his family became mine. No, they're not perfect. I've spoke about them before here, but there mine. MINE!And now the only father I've ever known is dying. I'm

senanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-88036232720712335852007-02-09T18:19:00.001-06:002007-02-05T18:19:29.284-06:00

Okay, I know everybody has one. You know when you eat something it just makes you feel like you can tackle the world? Well, maybe not THAT feel good. What about something that makes you sit at the computer and actually write? Or run through the house cleaning like you got paid 100 grand a year to do just that? Or something that makes you, you know, feel REALLY good when that special person walks

Keri Fordnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-37141368398155132212007-02-05T17:57:00.000-06:002007-02-05T18:19:30.463-06:00

I'm not one of those pregnant women that bounce around, their belly hanging out becasue they are SO enjoying the gift and experience of pregnancy. Don't get me wrong, I'm thankful everyday for the baby growing inside, but I'd rather it come on out and give me body back. I don't like to share. (Can anybody tell I'm on the downhill slide? 9 WEEKS!)I've created a list of 'perks' that I've learned

Keri Fordnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-55882862983463251682007-02-01T12:56:00.000-06:002007-02-01T13:02:40.734-06:00

When you're a writer, research is important. You never know what little piece of information will make or break that next scene. For example, today I've been research scotch. I have a couple of characters who drink scotch. They are supposed to very knowledgeable about the stuff, and frankly, the last time I drank scotch, I was in college and we all remember how much money to had to spend back

Arkansas Cyndinoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-71792220668115215282007-01-31T16:47:00.000-06:002007-01-31T17:00:40.211-06:00

Yes that kind and the other...the HAIL kind. as in the kind where pieces of ice fall from the sky! Hope you're enjoy your sunny florida weather, Cyndi! Cause I just looked out my window to see tiny pieces of ice pinging off my porch. Okay, so I'm not big into weather, and there's a good chance that it's just sleeting, but either way, ice is falling.Now, I'm not sure about other places, when when

Keri Fordnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-75027160508420147692007-01-30T14:17:00.000-06:002007-01-30T14:20:50.329-06:00

In my effort to avoid stripping the sheet off my bed, I've been web surfing and found this:http://www.blogthings.com/whatcolorisyourluckyunderwearquiz/It seems YELLOW is my lucky color for underwear. Ummm...I have one yellow bra and some of my panties have yellowed with age, but I doubt those count.For those who know me, read the description below...Is it me? You're an extremely happy, laid

Arkansas Cyndinoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-85386553221066079742007-01-29T11:46:00.000-06:002007-01-29T11:50:55.496-06:00

The bootcamp was so awesome! I just wish we could have had a few more Diamonds there. Member Julie Linker was a fabulous hostess and Mary/Myla/Elle led us through the entire process with *relatively* little pain. I am beat ass tired, but walked away from the camp with my first YA novel entirely plotted!Now, all I have to do is write the thing...starting tomorrow bcause today...a nap is definitly

Anna J. Evansnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-75101594422346369102007-01-24T17:09:00.000-06:002007-01-24T17:19:44.500-06:00

Well, I did it. I finally did it. I managed to buy a domain and hosting, design a website, and then post it. And it ACTUALLY WORKS!Okay, so I didn't do it totally by myself. Cyndi stepped me through buying a domain and hosting. Hehee, I thought that was the hard part. A guy I know that's computer savvy setup my domain and hosting and then showed me how to post. And then I had a website! I'll

Keri Fordnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-17365919044877283762007-01-22T09:51:00.000-06:002008-12-10T22:29:04.414-06:00

Many years ago, I had a screenwriter boyfriend who insisted that he wrote better...in the nude. I'd come home from class and find the man in front of his computer with nothing between his bare bum and our--SHARED--computer seat. No matter that this man and I were, um, intimately acquainted, this weird habit squicked me out.I tried to convince him to at least sit on a book or something, but never

Anna J. Evansnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-11203538549129531162007-01-18T18:03:00.000-06:002007-01-18T18:17:47.951-06:00

Do a little dance.....make a love.....Keri's on her last trimester.....her last trimester....Yipee! Ya'll haven't heard from me in a while. Sorry. Been sleeping mostly. The pregnancy is coasting right on along. The family is still split on whether or not I'm harboring a boy or girl in there. Which brings up to the point of this post.We've explained to my almost 4 boy year old cousin that I've got

Keri Fordnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-72937065958117235952007-01-17T13:39:00.000-06:002007-01-17T14:03:22.451-06:00

If you've never procrastinated when you should be writing, you'll not understand this post, so move on.If you have, at some point for some reason, procrastinated, I'm the gal for you!I mentioned in yesterday's post that I'm trying to get a minimum of 5,000 words written this week, but would love to get it to 10,000. So how does one do that? You W-R-I-T-E. But that doesn't have anything to do with

Arkansas Cyndinoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-48342933960986223572007-01-16T16:33:00.000-06:002007-01-16T17:03:46.759-06:00

We're still in Florida. Temperature today? About 83. Temperature at home in Arkansas? About 23 and dreary. Anyone have any questions about WHY we are hiding out in Florida!Have meet some of my "online" RWA buddies. I had lunch last week with PJ O'Riley, who is a member of RWA KOD. I had sent her a picture of me before we met so she could find me in the restaurant (Caffe Chocolate). As soon as I

Arkansas Cyndinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-63811607196815429422007-01-11T10:54:00.000-06:002007-01-11T11:06:48.909-06:00

It's DONE! FINALLY! My ass is numb from sitting on it for the last three days picking articles, writing articles, pulling member news, etc etc etc. THEN, formating it into a publisher file was LOADS of fun. Anyone else ever use Publisher? Why does my font color change sometimes? And how come my pictures are there one minute and gone the next? ARGH!!!No matter. It's formatted. Has lovely colors.

Arkansas Cyndinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-32300696722691955422007-01-10T19:16:00.000-06:002007-01-10T19:17:37.620-06:00

I know you’re thinking I’m fixing to rant over the husband not dropping the lid, but I’m not. I’d intended on keeping this to myself, but after he snored ALL NIGHT long last night, I’ve changed my mind. My lack of sleep (which I don’t get enough of because of the pregnancy by the way) has me in the right mood to tell.We’ve got two bathrooms in my house. One is in the master bath, the other is the

Keri Fordnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-21502260129167781782007-01-08T21:18:00.000-06:002008-12-10T22:29:04.743-06:00

Elemental Elves 1: Horse Playby Mary WinterAvailable now from Changeling Press!cover art by Reneé GeorgeISBN (10): 1-59596-638-2 ISBN (13): 978-1-59596-638-4Genre(s): Urban FantasyTheme(s): Shapeshifters, ElvesLength: Novella (12k - 28k words)$3.99http://www.changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=527Naming her new horse Flynn after the actor famed for his pirate movies proves prophetic

Mary Winternoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-62930970668326652972007-01-07T15:14:00.000-06:002007-01-07T15:23:38.784-06:00

Yesterday, I visited (correct that - crashed) the Central Florida RWA meeting. What a nice group of women. And a well-run business meeting. Wished I'd been that organized. There were 40 or so writers there, many of them new. I think they must have had a number of new members join yesterday after the meeting.I went to hear Roxanne St. Claire talk about goal setting. I went not really expecting to

Arkansas Cyndinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-70606843011783150842007-01-05T16:31:00.000-06:002008-12-10T22:29:05.753-06:00

Sing along with me...On the road again....just can't wait to get back on the road again... It's that time...the snowbirds head to Florida. We did this last year for two months, so we're jumping in again. But before we could come to our "two-month Florida Home" (Also know as The Great Outdoors Resort), we made a stop in Orlando for the CapitalOne Bowl. Yes, I was there to watch my beloved Hogs

Arkansas Cyndinoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-33188270891262240302006-12-29T21:06:00.000-06:002006-12-29T21:12:47.997-06:00

So, the husband calls on his way to the grocery store and informs me that he's going to get some steaks and grill them tonight. Being the good wife that I am, I tell him, it's supposed to rain. 'Not until later', he tells me. Anyway, the husband is currently standing in the rain while flipping steaks and yelling at me to stop laughing.Anybody else having a nice Friday evening?

Keri Fordnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-17201013623156903352006-12-22T17:20:00.000-06:002008-12-10T22:29:06.166-06:00

I am pleased to announce the release of my "Wild Winter Quickie," Polar Heat from Ellora's Cave. I'm very excited to have spent time in the Arctic with my polar bears, and I'm hoping for more stories of my polar bear shape shifters soon!http://www.ellorascave.com/productpage.asp?ISBN=1-4199-0830-8 Studying polar bears is Norwegian scientist Aud Myhre's passion. The leader of an Arctic research

Mary Winternoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-29481533591447669672006-12-21T14:55:00.000-06:002006-12-21T16:26:49.686-06:00

Yes, this is my first time to "blog" EVER. lol.My days of late have been filled with, no not writing (slap on the wrist), but teaching a friend how to make quilts. Her mother passed away a year ago and she wants to make seven (yes 7) King size quilts from her mother's clothing for the family. So here I am still in my jammies in the middle of the day, taking a break from sewing, to try to "blog'

Ellen C.noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-27731161715052076102006-12-20T16:07:00.000-06:002008-12-10T22:29:06.424-06:00

Hey people!This is Anna J. Evans, multi-published author and proud Arkansas Diamond. I've been writing romance (erotic romance, specifically) for three years and am published with Ellora's Cave, Liquid Silver Books, and several other e-publishers. I'm a stay at home mom writer to a two year old and a full time stepmom to my 12 year old and 8 year old stepdaughters. In between loads of laundry and

Anna J. Evansnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-13933758753154294862006-12-19T18:31:00.000-06:002006-12-19T18:58:34.769-06:00

Last night I snuggled comfortably in my bed, pulled the covers around my neck, and next thing I know, I'm holding my pistol (with a steady arm, BTW) and aiming it at a man's chest that I don't know. Somehow, I'd left my bedroom and was in a hotel room. I warned the guy three times to back away and get out. Instead, he slowly walked toward me. Once more, I told him, back away, he reached out and I

Keri Fordnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-17625650740415829552006-12-19T13:09:00.000-06:002006-12-19T13:12:46.917-06:00

Hi! This is my first post on the Arkansas Diamonds blog, and I just wanted to take this opportunity to wish everyone a happy and wonderful holiday season. May you receive everything on your wish list, spend time with friends, family, and loved ones, and receive a white Christmas if you want one, or not, if you don't.My aunt in Albuquerque let my grandma know she received snow, and it was still

Mary Winternoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-10742454216496395482006-12-17T18:24:00.000-06:002006-12-17T18:25:26.818-06:00

Hope everyone is almost ready for Christmas. It's almost here! I wrapped my last present tonight, but knowing my hubby, some late gift will come in needing to be wrapped. So, what is everyone asking Santa for?Me? I wanted to new laptop, so my DH (Darling Husband) got out of bed at 4:00 am on Black Friday and went with me to Office Depot. We got there about 4:45 and there were already people lined

Arkansas Cyndinoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-59067140047556519692006-12-10T19:49:00.000-06:002006-12-10T20:04:18.329-06:00

Why is it that single wide mobile homes come equiped with the smallest waterheater the builders can find? These buggers are SO small, I'm not even sure you can find them at the store. They must be special ordering them in.In the summer time, I can take my time in the shower, enjoy the quiet after a long day. The ground's warm enough that it keeps the water in the pipes at a decent temperature

Keri Fordnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-14669337786927655332006-12-07T03:17:00.000-06:002006-12-07T04:12:19.840-06:00

I've been gone for a while, I know. Let the complaints begin...Thanksgiving. I was thankful that the cops weren't called for the second year in a row and no one got stinking drunk. Yippee. A real accomplishment for my husbands family. Although I was informed that it was our fault that my husband's grandfather's heater wasn't fixed and why his aunt's life sucks. Don't ask. I assure you not only is

senanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-80699337587481521272006-12-04T22:31:00.000-06:002006-12-04T22:42:26.393-06:00

I've been remiss in my duties as a blogger here! Things have been hectic. But this time of year, who's life isn't?I see Cyndi rearranged the furniture. The blog looks lovely! Who doesn't like shiny jewels? It's easy to get distracted by shiny things. Distraction has been my life lately. For those of you who didn't read the saga of the broken car, my ride died on me nearly three weeks ago.

Shayla Kerstenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03712434264545304766noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-39363552415420483902006-12-04T22:30:00.000-06:002008-12-10T22:29:06.688-06:00

Well folks, it's that time of year again. Get your cards out of storage, get those addy's on there, and get them in the mailbox! This year, I knew I'd gotten older when (no lie) my first christmas card came from my CPA instead of my momma. If you noticed the photo above, that would be the makings of my christmas card. I just have to take it to one of those machines and add the wording. I had

Keri Fordnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-66671109881431611422006-12-04T10:59:00.000-06:002006-12-04T11:08:06.634-06:00

If you've been here before, or if for that matter, you're a blogger here, you may notice some changes in the layout. I am continuing to "tinker" with layout, fonts, and colors, so you never know what you'll find when you visit, except for a whining post from Sena about how no one understands her (WE DO, Sena!), or how Keri's pregnancy is progressing (I'm voting female, BTW), or if Shayla's car

Arkansas Cyndinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-91401211201857966182006-11-30T21:22:00.000-06:002006-11-30T21:56:26.365-06:00

okay, be prepared, because I'm about to rub this in your face like whip cream pie for those of you whole still hold a job-- My weekend officially started today at 1:00pm. Like it does every week! Pardon me while I congo dance in my computer chair.okay, that didn't take long before I was out of breath. So big plans this weekend, you ready? Read, write, eat, sleep--and not necessarily in that order

Keri Fordnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-62609470170372954352006-11-28T20:20:00.000-06:002006-11-29T04:30:07.488-06:00

Customer's will often do the strangest things. Obviously, they find themselves absolutely amusing and can't get enough of it.However....It is not that funny when...I've rang up your stuff, reach for your money that you're holding out to me, and you snatch it away. BIG SECRET. this is an old game. it wasn't that funny when the first person did it to me, nor is it that great when the hundreth did

Keri Fordnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-85107605784892932006-11-27T14:02:00.000-06:002006-11-28T06:38:26.681-06:00

Hi ya'll. I'm ranting. I went back to work today after being off for nearly a solid week and things I typically forget about came flying to the forefront of my attention.My grandparents own a gas station. It's the whole shee-bang setup of gas, food, drinks, oil, you get the idea (only no suveniors). I'm now 23 years old and I've been working in there, right with the public since I was AT LEAST 12

Keri Fordnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-10928060676287022592006-11-25T12:11:00.000-06:002006-11-25T12:45:27.249-06:00

Boy, my hubby's going to be happy when I tell him this! The baby's been rather still since early this morning when I woke up. I've been at my computer now for a couple of hours, listening to a variety of music. Country-new and old, hip-hop, and rap.Madonna hits have been bumping, and so has the baby! While I'm a Madonna fan, my hubby isn't all that entertained by her. Thank goodness the baby has

Keri Fordnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-26121064936967792312006-11-23T07:09:00.000-06:002006-11-23T07:15:37.721-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving everybody! Hope all of you have a wonderful day while you fill yourself up with lots of turkey and all the trimmings. Get stuffed. Forget those diets! Food like this only comes once a year. Well, twice if you do a massive Christmas dinner. But 2 out of 365 ain't bad folks.So reach out, grab that turkey leg and take it with the wisdom of you are fixing to enjoy a good meal

Keri Fordnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-10534212662540148982006-11-21T09:48:00.000-06:002006-11-21T09:57:36.049-06:00

So, how many of us are on diets? and how many of us are just going to ignore them on Thursday? (I'm waving my hand)Thanksgiving comes only once a year, and I figure one day of indulgence won't kill me. The whole family is getting together at mom's and I've been assigned the ham, the mac and cheese (from scratch - not boxed), a pumpkin pie, a coconut cream pie (which is beyond wonderful) and one

Arkansas Cyndinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-35897487228093083582006-11-20T14:31:00.000-06:002006-11-20T14:36:41.768-06:00

We started kicking! Baby's been doin' it since early last week, but I couldn't tell if it was other body stuff going on or what (I'm a first time mom). Friday morning Baby got active enough with me that I knew for sure that's what it was. Saturday was little more quiet, and then late Sunday evening, Baby kicked it's little heart out. Even the hubby could feel most of the tiny hits! After watching

Keri Fordnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-11469789828185586252006-11-20T14:22:00.000-06:002006-11-20T18:48:41.632-06:00

Okay everybody....Visited the doc this morning and I'm 21 weeks! Yipee!! So we did the ultrasound, but I didn't want the doc to confirm anything. For those of you that think you might know what we're lookin' at, leave a comment.The top horizontal thing that looks like a turkey leg is the thigh, below is what my hubby and several other members of my family think is the 'turtle' AKA (boy body part)

Keri Fordnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-82825086444441424072006-11-19T20:45:00.000-06:002006-11-19T21:28:45.622-06:00

Okay, just a warning. I'm odd. But, I act very normal on the outside, so don't worry if you see me in person. You'll never know. So some stuff, like what happened today, I think is hilarious.My twin daughters, one is like a Sparkling Diamond and one is like....a chunk of coal. We had to go to a birthday party. And when I say had to go I mean had to go. The birthday girl's dad works for my husband

senanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-85536562273248134272006-11-18T20:46:00.001-06:002006-11-18T20:46:34.411-06:00

And I really need this one. This week will not go down as one of my favorites. To say it was a rough week it a serious understatement.The dratted day job has been extremely annoying to begin with. Too many projects, too many people pulling on me from different directions and of course, everyone thinks their stuff has priority.By Wednesday, I was ready to implode. The lady boss (I have three

Shayla Kerstenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03712434264545304766noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-51754502918318960582006-11-18T14:52:00.000-06:002006-11-18T15:14:00.103-06:00

Well, I was using the comment section to answer Cyndi, but decided I had a lot to ramble on. What are my plans for today? Forcing myself to eat ALL of my husband's cookies before he gets home (hehee).Let me start from the top. Don't ask why, but for some reason since my hubby was a toddler, his breakfast of choice has been Chips-A-Hoy chocolate chip cookies served as cereal. But there's more to

Keri Fordnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-83093889245190139812006-11-18T10:32:00.000-06:002006-11-18T10:58:42.857-06:00

Today is Saturday. It's the first day this week that I have NOTHING on my "to-d0" list...and it feels great. Not that I shouldn't be writing...I should, but my niece is visiting (which she never does) and my friend is hosting an estate sale, so we'll probably do so running around this afternoon...AFTER the Razorback game! She's 21 and absolutely gorgeous. I feel sorry for "THE ONE" she brings

Arkansas Cyndinoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-21079308241568738262006-11-16T15:40:00.000-06:002006-11-16T16:08:02.851-06:00

Hello All! I’m Keri and a baby blogger that doesn’t know what I’m doing! I had to get step-by-step help from Cyndi to sign-in! This would be a good time to mention that a ninth grader can probably spell better than I can, so if you come across a funny looking word, just sound it out loud! Pretend your playing that Mad Gab game, at least I think that’s the title. When I come across any other of my

Keri Fordnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2226656106134608951.post-64713948645576926882006-11-15T20:10:00.000-06:002006-11-15T20:29:26.902-06:00

Hi Y'all. This is my test post for the Arkansas Diamonds Blog! This is my first time (gasp), so bear with me (and my coharts) as we explore this brave new world. This blog is by authors but not about writing. It's about us...what we do..what we think...probably lots about my dog (who is the smartest border collie in the world).I'm Cyndi and from the name of the blog, I suspect you can guess where

Arkansas Cyndinoreply@blogger.com0