More hiking pics.....
Cheryl
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Wanna see Wings of Refuge's setting?
I have set my Wings of Refuge series in a fictional Southern Illinois town called Refuge. If you've read books 1 and 2 (A Soldier's Promise and A Soldier's Family) you might recall the characters go hiking on trails behind Refuge's Bed and Breakfast. If so, these pictures will help you envision the beauty of the area.
I hiked this real Southern Illinois area this week.
Three more Wings of Refuge books are slotted to release in 2009 starting in April with Ready-Made Family from Love Inspired. Hopefully these photos will help you envision the area in which the Wings of Refuge stories reside.
I hope you enjoy the pics as much as I enjoyed hiking the area to obtain them.
I have a funny and hopefully encouraging story to follow, regarding one semi-difficult patch of trail.
Cheryl
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Sr Editor Melissa Endlich of Steeple Hill @ Seekerville tomorrow
Hey all,
Senior Editor, Melissa Endlich of Steeple Hill will guestblog all day tomorrow (Nov 13) at Seekerville.
If you're targeting Steeple Hill, or interested in learning more about the books, come join us for this interactive blog. Melissa will be there to answer questions/address comments. We have an informative interview with her to post as well.
This is a great opportunity to get to know her, get your name in front of her and learn what they're looking for in an author/story.
Come learn more about Steeple Hill and one of their fabulous editors.
Hope to see some of you there!
Please pass this on/forward to your other writing-related blogs and loops.
http://www.seekerville.blogspot.com/
Thanks!
Cheryl Wyatt
Senior Editor, Melissa Endlich of Steeple Hill will guestblog all day tomorrow (Nov 13) at Seekerville.
If you're targeting Steeple Hill, or interested in learning more about the books, come join us for this interactive blog. Melissa will be there to answer questions/address comments. We have an informative interview with her to post as well.
This is a great opportunity to get to know her, get your name in front of her and learn what they're looking for in an author/story.
Come learn more about Steeple Hill and one of their fabulous editors.
Hope to see some of you there!
Please pass this on/forward to your other writing-related blogs and loops.
http://www.seekerville.blogspot.com/
Thanks!
Cheryl Wyatt
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
HAPPY VETERAN'S DAY
TO ALL WHO'VE SERVED AND THEIR FAMILIES.
May God bless your sacrifice and keep you safe.
Cheryl
May God bless your sacrifice and keep you safe.
Cheryl
Friday, November 07, 2008
36 BLONDE THINGS-SAD BUT TRUE AND NO SURPRISE
Got this meme in an e-mail. Sigh. The person who sent it to me had only done 22 of the 40 Dumb Blonde things.
Sigh. I've done 36.
Ok, so here's what ya do: mark your answers with a little 'x' inside
the boxes if its true, but BE HONEST (I was)!! Then send it to all your
peeps and make them laugh.
1 [x] Gum has fallen out of your mouth when you were talking
2 [x]Gum has fallen out of your mouth when you were NOT talking
3 [x] You have ran into a glass/screen door
4 [x] You have jumped out of a moving vehicle. (not a plane, thank God) <-my emphasis
5 [x] You have thought of something funny and laughed, then people gave
you weird looks
6 [x] You have ran into a tree
7 [] It IS possible to lick your elbow
8 [x] You tried to lick your elbow (not until this dumb test)
9 [x] You never knew that the Alphabet and Twinkle Twinkle Little Star
have the same rhythm
10 [x] You just tried to sing them
11 [x] You have tripped on your shoelace and fallen
12 [x] You have choked on your own spit
13 [x] You have seen the the Matrix and still don't get it.
14 [x] You didn't notice that in the last question 'the' was spelled
twice
15 [x] You just looked at it
16 [x] Your hair is blonde
17 [x] People have called you slow ALOT!
18 [x] You have accidentally caught something on fire
19 [x] You tried to drink out of a straw, but it went into your nose/eyes
20 [x] You have caught yourself drooling
21 [x] You've fallen asleep in a laundry basket
22 [x] Sometimes you just stop thinking.
23 [x] You are telling a story and forget what you were talking
about-(too often)
24 [x] People are often shaking their heads and walk away from you
25 [x] You are often told to use your 'inside voice'
26 [x] You use your fingers to do simple math
27 [x] You have eaten a bug (WASN'T MY FAULT. MOUTH OPEN ON MOTERCYCLE. NUFF SAID)
28 [x] You are taking this test when you should be doing something
important.
29 [x] You have put your clothes on backwards or inside out, and didn't
realize it
30 [x] You've looked all over for something and realized it was in your
hand or pocket
31 [] You sometimes post emails because you are scared that what they
say will happen to you if you don't, even when you know it won't happen
to you, like on a myspace...
32 [x]You break a lot of things.
33 [] Friends know not to use big words around you
34 [x]You sometimes tilt your head when you're confused
35 [x] You have fallen out of your chair before
36 [x] When you're laying in bed, you try to find pictures in the
texture of the ceiling/wall
37 [x] The word 'umm' is used many times a day
38 [x] You called a friend and then completely forgot what you were
gonna say
39 [x] You have spelled your name wrong
40 [] You have drawn a disformed heart (huh? I don't get this one-lol)
Send to all your friends and the person you got it from. Repost as:'I've
Done 36 of the 40 Blondest Things." tee-hee.
Sigh. I've done 36.
Ok, so here's what ya do: mark your answers with a little 'x' inside
the boxes if its true, but BE HONEST (I was)!! Then send it to all your
peeps and make them laugh.
1 [x] Gum has fallen out of your mouth when you were talking
2 [x]Gum has fallen out of your mouth when you were NOT talking
3 [x] You have ran into a glass/screen door
4 [x] You have jumped out of a moving vehicle. (not a plane, thank God) <-my emphasis
5 [x] You have thought of something funny and laughed, then people gave
you weird looks
6 [x] You have ran into a tree
7 [] It IS possible to lick your elbow
8 [x] You tried to lick your elbow (not until this dumb test)
9 [x] You never knew that the Alphabet and Twinkle Twinkle Little Star
have the same rhythm
10 [x] You just tried to sing them
11 [x] You have tripped on your shoelace and fallen
12 [x] You have choked on your own spit
13 [x] You have seen the the Matrix and still don't get it.
14 [x] You didn't notice that in the last question 'the' was spelled
twice
15 [x] You just looked at it
16 [x] Your hair is blonde
17 [x] People have called you slow ALOT!
18 [x] You have accidentally caught something on fire
19 [x] You tried to drink out of a straw, but it went into your nose/eyes
20 [x] You have caught yourself drooling
21 [x] You've fallen asleep in a laundry basket
22 [x] Sometimes you just stop thinking.
23 [x] You are telling a story and forget what you were talking
about-(too often)
24 [x] People are often shaking their heads and walk away from you
25 [x] You are often told to use your 'inside voice'
26 [x] You use your fingers to do simple math
27 [x] You have eaten a bug (WASN'T MY FAULT. MOUTH OPEN ON MOTERCYCLE. NUFF SAID)
28 [x] You are taking this test when you should be doing something
important.
29 [x] You have put your clothes on backwards or inside out, and didn't
realize it
30 [x] You've looked all over for something and realized it was in your
hand or pocket
31 [] You sometimes post emails because you are scared that what they
say will happen to you if you don't, even when you know it won't happen
to you, like on a myspace...
32 [x]You break a lot of things.
33 [] Friends know not to use big words around you
34 [x]You sometimes tilt your head when you're confused
35 [x] You have fallen out of your chair before
36 [x] When you're laying in bed, you try to find pictures in the
texture of the ceiling/wall
37 [x] The word 'umm' is used many times a day
38 [x] You called a friend and then completely forgot what you were
gonna say
39 [x] You have spelled your name wrong
40 [] You have drawn a disformed heart (huh? I don't get this one-lol)
Send to all your friends and the person you got it from. Repost as:'I've
Done 36 of the 40 Blondest Things." tee-hee.
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
This is WAY cool!
Yesterday I went to the city hall to vote. As soon as I walked in, the women at the tables started mentioning my books. I don't know why I was so surprised. Writers can be sort of reclusive. So sometimes we have no idea those close to us who are actually interested in our writing journey or our books.
I've known them all since moving to this town, but I had no idea they were so supportive of my writing. And I tell you...I was sincerely blown away by their support and encouragement.
Honestly Elvis (aka me in that moment) nearly left the building in tears. Grateful. Thankful, happy tears. Okay maybe I'm just extra sensitive because I have Prehistoric Monster Syndrome (what my husband calls PMS...or at least me when afflicted by it). But it's moments like this that remind me of why I do what I do. That God can use the stories I offer Him to make someone laugh or entertain or touch them in some way...is WAY cool!
Since many of those women said they read my blog, this is a very public and very deep THANK YOU for supporting my writing with their readership.
You all have no idea how word of mouth helps authors. Especially newbie authors like me who are trying to establish themselves in a tough market with so many other hundreds of thousands of authors during financial strain on the country.
That you all would spend money to purchase my books and expend your precious time to read them...and pass them around and tell your friends and family about them...words can't express how much that means to me.
Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. To all the ladies (and gent) at the polling place. YOU TOTALLY MADE MY DAY!
Maybe even my whole year.
Hugs,
Majorly cheezin',
Cheryl
I've known them all since moving to this town, but I had no idea they were so supportive of my writing. And I tell you...I was sincerely blown away by their support and encouragement.
Honestly Elvis (aka me in that moment) nearly left the building in tears. Grateful. Thankful, happy tears. Okay maybe I'm just extra sensitive because I have Prehistoric Monster Syndrome (what my husband calls PMS...or at least me when afflicted by it). But it's moments like this that remind me of why I do what I do. That God can use the stories I offer Him to make someone laugh or entertain or touch them in some way...is WAY cool!
Since many of those women said they read my blog, this is a very public and very deep THANK YOU for supporting my writing with their readership.
You all have no idea how word of mouth helps authors. Especially newbie authors like me who are trying to establish themselves in a tough market with so many other hundreds of thousands of authors during financial strain on the country.
That you all would spend money to purchase my books and expend your precious time to read them...and pass them around and tell your friends and family about them...words can't express how much that means to me.
Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. To all the ladies (and gent) at the polling place. YOU TOTALLY MADE MY DAY!
Maybe even my whole year.
Hugs,
Majorly cheezin',
Cheryl
Tuesday, November 04, 2008
CONGRATS Marcher Lord Press Book Winners! And BOOK SURGE TODAY
Pardon for the double posting...
Congrats going out to
Lia for winning a free copy of Hero Second Class.
Lynn for winning a free copy of Personifid Invasion.
And
Cathikin for winning a copy of Summa Elvetica
Speaking of Summa Elvetica....TODAY between noon and midnight (EST, GMT -5:00) Marcher Lord Press is having a book surge on Amazon. Meaning if you planned to purchase this book, or any MLP book, NOW would be wonderful. If a certain number of people purchase the book within this time frame, Summa will likely hit Amaon bestseller status in its category. So I hope you will bop over to www.amazon.com and purchase this book by Theodore Beale.
For those who purchase one or more MLP titles from Amazon (U.S.) during this window, send Jeff Gerke (publisher/editor of MLP) proof of that purchase (like the receipt you get from Amazon--but be sure it doesn't contain any personal information like credit card number). When you do that he'll send you the link to download one or more of his e-book products FOR FREE. His contact info is on the Marcher Lord Press Web site. Marcher Lord Press
Here is the purchase link.
Summa Elvetica on Amazon
Cheryl
Congrats going out to
Lia for winning a free copy of Hero Second Class.
Lynn for winning a free copy of Personifid Invasion.
And
Cathikin for winning a copy of Summa Elvetica
Speaking of Summa Elvetica....TODAY between noon and midnight (EST, GMT -5:00) Marcher Lord Press is having a book surge on Amazon. Meaning if you planned to purchase this book, or any MLP book, NOW would be wonderful. If a certain number of people purchase the book within this time frame, Summa will likely hit Amaon bestseller status in its category. So I hope you will bop over to www.amazon.com and purchase this book by Theodore Beale.
For those who purchase one or more MLP titles from Amazon (U.S.) during this window, send Jeff Gerke (publisher/editor of MLP) proof of that purchase (like the receipt you get from Amazon--but be sure it doesn't contain any personal information like credit card number). When you do that he'll send you the link to download one or more of his e-book products FOR FREE. His contact info is on the Marcher Lord Press Web site. Marcher Lord Press
Here is the purchase link.
Summa Elvetica on Amazon
Cheryl
Monday, November 03, 2008
Newsletter anyone?
Hey faithful bloggies,
I wanted to let you know that I have a quarterly newsletter. If you wish to sign up, visit my Web site and input your e-mail address in the space provided.
If this link doesn't work, simply click the e-mail "Newsletter anyone?" header to this post.
I offer contests with GREAT prizes...only available to my newsletter subscribers.
Hope you will consider joining. I only send updates a few times a year...mostly letting folks know about new releases and contests.
I respect your privacy and will NOT share your e-mail address with a third party.
Thanks for supporting my blog with your readership.
And thanks for your comments. Though I may not acknowlege or answer back to every single one, I DO personally read (and cherish!) each one.
Hugs,
Cheryl
I wanted to let you know that I have a quarterly newsletter. If you wish to sign up, visit my Web site and input your e-mail address in the space provided.
If this link doesn't work, simply click the e-mail "Newsletter anyone?" header to this post.
I offer contests with GREAT prizes...only available to my newsletter subscribers.
Hope you will consider joining. I only send updates a few times a year...mostly letting folks know about new releases and contests.
I respect your privacy and will NOT share your e-mail address with a third party.
Thanks for supporting my blog with your readership.
And thanks for your comments. Though I may not acknowlege or answer back to every single one, I DO personally read (and cherish!) each one.
Hugs,
Cheryl
Saturday, November 01, 2008
November 2008 Prompt
November Prompt Contest
RULES:
• Write a 500 word scene using all ten Prompt Words.
• Begin each scene using one of three Scene Starter Sentences.
• Mail your scenes in the body of an e-mail to Cheryl @ CherylWyatt . com (close spaces before and after “@” and “.”) If the e-mail bounces back to you, please let me know in the comment of this post.
• Put “November Prompt Contest” in the subject line.
• Entry deadline is the last day of the month.
• Winners will be notified the first week of the next month.
• Winners will receive a free Steeple Hill book, mailed the month winners are notified.
• All monthly entrants (not just winners) will be entered into the annual contest for one of several chances to win a six month subscription to any Steeple Hill line of their choice.
• Entries will not be posted or published anywhere and entrants retain all rights to their work.
• New prompts will be posted on the first of the month.
• Most of all, have fun!
November Prompt Words
1. Cold
2. Turkey
3. Homecoming
4. Town
5. Old
6. Flame
7. School
8. Creek
9. Creak
10. Memories
November Scene Starter Sentences:
“That’s the last one.”
“Can I help you?”
“How’d I get roped into this?”
Happy writing!
Cheryl Wyatt
RULES:
• Write a 500 word scene using all ten Prompt Words.
• Begin each scene using one of three Scene Starter Sentences.
• Mail your scenes in the body of an e-mail to Cheryl @ CherylWyatt . com (close spaces before and after “@” and “.”) If the e-mail bounces back to you, please let me know in the comment of this post.
• Put “November Prompt Contest” in the subject line.
• Entry deadline is the last day of the month.
• Winners will be notified the first week of the next month.
• Winners will receive a free Steeple Hill book, mailed the month winners are notified.
• All monthly entrants (not just winners) will be entered into the annual contest for one of several chances to win a six month subscription to any Steeple Hill line of their choice.
• Entries will not be posted or published anywhere and entrants retain all rights to their work.
• New prompts will be posted on the first of the month.
• Most of all, have fun!
November Prompt Words
1. Cold
2. Turkey
3. Homecoming
4. Town
5. Old
6. Flame
7. School
8. Creek
9. Creak
10. Memories
November Scene Starter Sentences:
“That’s the last one.”
“Can I help you?”
“How’d I get roped into this?”
Happy writing!
Cheryl Wyatt
Monday, October 27, 2008
Reporting LIVE.....
From San Jose, California.....
Hey all. I've been MIA due to traveling. I'm currently at the home of Camy Tang and her husband (aka Captain Caffiene) who are being so hospitable.
Sunday, after going to their awesome church and getting to hear them lead worship together (See picture) they took me to their favorite Chinese restaurant. And...I learned how to use chop sticks!!! (See pictures)
How kewl is that?
Later today we're driving to Sonoma to a meeting with our agency.
Hope you're having a great Monday!
Cheryl
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
In Seekerville today
I'm blogging in Seekerville today about the importance of research accuracy in novels.
Would love you to come share your thoughts on the matter.
Zip on over and join in the fun.
Thanks all!
Cheryl Wyatt
Would love you to come share your thoughts on the matter.
Zip on over and join in the fun.
Thanks all!
Cheryl Wyatt
Friday, October 17, 2008
Marcher Lord Press Launches!
And so does Free Book Fridays here on my blog.
Did you know I have a secret love for speculative fiction? Okay well I guess it's not so secret anymore, is it? LOL!
I've often contemplated whether one could write a paranormal Inspirational. Hmmm....
Just kidding.
Anyway...I have been waiting for October to get here and am excited to announce the launch of something I've been looking forward to....Marcher Lord Press.
This is an online Christian speculative fiction house founded by editor Jeff Gerke. He also writes as Jefferson Scott whose books I have loved and read for years.
DO check out this site if you, or anyone you know, likes Christian speculative fiction which includes sci-fi, fantasy, time travel and other such genres.
Marcher Lord Press Official Web site
If you're an author--even an aspiring one, I HIGHLY recommend you sign up for the newsletter on Marcher Lord's sister site
Where the Map Ends.
And since I promised to launch Free Book Fridays on my blog in October, I'm GIVING AWAY one copy each of Marcher Lord's three fiction launch books. Free Book Fridays means that on one Friday of each month, I will give away at least one FREE BOOK. Since I am gone a lot, the Friday will vary. When I come out from under contract, I may be able to do more than one Free book Friday a month. My goal is to eventually give free books away EVERY Friday.
If you'd like a chance to win a free copy of:
Hero, Second Class by Mitchell Bonds
The Personifid Invasion by R.E. Bartlett
or
Summa Elvetica by Theodore Beale....
leave a comment in the comment section of this post by midnight next Thursday, October 23, letting me know WHICH BOOK you'd like a chance to win. Winners names will be drawn Friday morning (Oct 24) and mailed when I return from Sonoma.
Next month, on one random Friday, I will continue Free Book Fridays by giving away a free Steeple Hill book.
Cheers,
Cheryl Wyatt
Did you know I have a secret love for speculative fiction? Okay well I guess it's not so secret anymore, is it? LOL!
I've often contemplated whether one could write a paranormal Inspirational. Hmmm....
Just kidding.
Anyway...I have been waiting for October to get here and am excited to announce the launch of something I've been looking forward to....Marcher Lord Press.
This is an online Christian speculative fiction house founded by editor Jeff Gerke. He also writes as Jefferson Scott whose books I have loved and read for years.
DO check out this site if you, or anyone you know, likes Christian speculative fiction which includes sci-fi, fantasy, time travel and other such genres.
Marcher Lord Press Official Web site
If you're an author--even an aspiring one, I HIGHLY recommend you sign up for the newsletter on Marcher Lord's sister site
Where the Map Ends.
And since I promised to launch Free Book Fridays on my blog in October, I'm GIVING AWAY one copy each of Marcher Lord's three fiction launch books. Free Book Fridays means that on one Friday of each month, I will give away at least one FREE BOOK. Since I am gone a lot, the Friday will vary. When I come out from under contract, I may be able to do more than one Free book Friday a month. My goal is to eventually give free books away EVERY Friday.
If you'd like a chance to win a free copy of:
Hero, Second Class by Mitchell Bonds
The Personifid Invasion by R.E. Bartlett
or
Summa Elvetica by Theodore Beale....
leave a comment in the comment section of this post by midnight next Thursday, October 23, letting me know WHICH BOOK you'd like a chance to win. Winners names will be drawn Friday morning (Oct 24) and mailed when I return from Sonoma.
Next month, on one random Friday, I will continue Free Book Fridays by giving away a free Steeple Hill book.
Cheers,
Cheryl Wyatt
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Jeff Foxworthy on Illinois
Since Illinois is currently home to me and where my Wings of Refuge Series is set, I found this Forward to be hilarious...and oh-so-true!
Jeff Foxworthy on Illinois :
- If your local Dairy Queen is closed from
- November through March, you might live in Illinois
- If someone in a store offers you assistance & they don't work there, you might live in Illinois .
- If your dad's suntan stops at a line curving around the middle of his forehead, you might live in Illinois
- If you have ever worn shorts and a parka at the same time, you might live in Illinois .
- If your town has an equal number of bars and churches, you might live in Illinois .
- If you have had a lengthy telephone conversation with someone who dialed a wrong number, you might live in Illinois
YOU KNOW YOU ARE A TRUE Illinoisan WHEN:
1. Vacation means going north or south on I-57 for the weekend.
2. You measure distance in hours.
3. You know several people who have hit a deer more than once.
4. You often switch from heat to AC in the same day and back again.
5. You drive 65 mph through a raging blizzard, with out flinching.
6. You see people wearing camouflage at social events (including weddings).
7. You install security lights on your house and garage and leave both unlocked.
8. You carry jumper cables in your car and know how to use them.
9. You design your kids Halloween costume to fit over a snowsuit.
10. Driving is better in the winter because the potholes are filled with snow.
11. You know all 5 seasons: almost winter, winter, still winter, road construction, and it's Hot.
12. Your idea of creative landscaping is a statue of a deer next to a blue spruce.
13. 'Down south ' means Missouri .
14. A brat is something you eat.
15. Your neighbor throws a party to celebrate his new pole shed.
16. You go out to a tailgate party every Friday.
17. You have more miles on your snow blower than your car.
18. You find 0 degrees a 'little chilly.'
19. You know the difference between corn and soy beans at a glance.
20. You do not consider Chicago to be a part of Illinois
21. A 'hill' is any landmass higher than 20 feet above sea level
22. You actually understand these jokes, and you forward them to all your Illinois friends. What's not to understand?
Jeff Foxworthy on Illinois :
- If your local Dairy Queen is closed from
- November through March, you might live in Illinois
- If someone in a store offers you assistance & they don't work there, you might live in Illinois .
- If your dad's suntan stops at a line curving around the middle of his forehead, you might live in Illinois
- If you have ever worn shorts and a parka at the same time, you might live in Illinois .
- If your town has an equal number of bars and churches, you might live in Illinois .
- If you have had a lengthy telephone conversation with someone who dialed a wrong number, you might live in Illinois
YOU KNOW YOU ARE A TRUE Illinoisan WHEN:
1. Vacation means going north or south on I-57 for the weekend.
2. You measure distance in hours.
3. You know several people who have hit a deer more than once.
4. You often switch from heat to AC in the same day and back again.
5. You drive 65 mph through a raging blizzard, with out flinching.
6. You see people wearing camouflage at social events (including weddings).
7. You install security lights on your house and garage and leave both unlocked.
8. You carry jumper cables in your car and know how to use them.
9. You design your kids Halloween costume to fit over a snowsuit.
10. Driving is better in the winter because the potholes are filled with snow.
11. You know all 5 seasons: almost winter, winter, still winter, road construction, and it's Hot.
12. Your idea of creative landscaping is a statue of a deer next to a blue spruce.
13. 'Down south ' means Missouri .
14. A brat is something you eat.
15. Your neighbor throws a party to celebrate his new pole shed.
16. You go out to a tailgate party every Friday.
17. You have more miles on your snow blower than your car.
18. You find 0 degrees a 'little chilly.'
19. You know the difference between corn and soy beans at a glance.
20. You do not consider Chicago to be a part of Illinois
21. A 'hill' is any landmass higher than 20 feet above sea level
22. You actually understand these jokes, and you forward them to all your Illinois friends. What's not to understand?
Monday, October 13, 2008
Another funny for you---Kids on Surgery
Something else that came to me via e-mail. It'll tickle your funny bone.
Cheryl
Kids on Surgery
Two little kids are in a hospital, lying on stretchers next to each other outside the operating room the first surgeries of the day.
The first kid leans over and asks, 'What are you in here for?'
The second kid says, 'I'm in here to get my tonsils out and I'm a little nervous.
The first kid says, 'You've got nothing to worry about. I had that done when I was four. They put you to sleep, and when you wake up they give you lots of Jell-O and ice cream. It's a breeze.'
The second kid then asks, 'What are you here for?'
The first kid says, 'A circumcision.'
'WHOA!' the second kid replies. 'Good luck buddy. I had that one when I was born. Couldn't walk for a year.
Cheryl
Kids on Surgery
Two little kids are in a hospital, lying on stretchers next to each other outside the operating room the first surgeries of the day.
The first kid leans over and asks, 'What are you in here for?'
The second kid says, 'I'm in here to get my tonsils out and I'm a little nervous.
The first kid says, 'You've got nothing to worry about. I had that done when I was four. They put you to sleep, and when you wake up they give you lots of Jell-O and ice cream. It's a breeze.'
The second kid then asks, 'What are you here for?'
The first kid says, 'A circumcision.'
'WHOA!' the second kid replies. 'Good luck buddy. I had that one when I was born. Couldn't walk for a year.
Friday, October 10, 2008
This is "wet your pants" funny!
I found this in my e-mail box from a friend who not only described it as "funny" but "wet your pants" funny.
I thoroughly agree. ESPECIALLY if you are a pet owner.
Enjoy!
Excerpts from a Dog's Diary...
8:00 am - Dog food! My favorite thing!
9:30 am - A car ride! My favorite thing!
9:40 am - A walk in the park! My favorite thing!
10:30 am - Got rubbed and petted! My favorite thing!
12:00 PM - Lunch! My favorite thing!
1:00 PM - Played in the yard! My favorite thing!
3:00 PM - Wagged my tail! My favorite thing!
5:00 PM - Milk bones! My favorite thing!
7:00 PM - Got to play ball! My favorite thing!
8:00 PM - Wow! Watched TV with the people! My favorite thing!
11:00 PM - Sleeping on the bed! My favorite thing!
Excerpts from a Cat's Diary.
Day 983 of my captivity.
My captors continue to taunt me with bizarre little dangling objects.
They dine lavishly on fresh meat, while the other inmates and I are fed hash or some sort of dry nuggets. Although I make my contempt for the rations perfectly clear, I nevertheless must eat something in order to keep up my strength.
The only thing that keeps me going is my dream of escape. In an attempt to disgust them, I once again vomit on the carpet.
Today I decapitated a mouse and dropped its headless body at their feet. I had hoped this would strike fear into their hearts, since it clearly demonstrates what I am capable of. However, they merely made condescending comments about what a 'good little hunter' I am. Jerks.
There was some sort of assembly of their accomplices tonight. I was placed in solitary confinement for the duration of the event. However, I could hear the noises and smell the food. I overheard that my confinement was due to the power of 'allergies.' I must learn what this means and how to use it to my advantage..
Today I was almost successful in an attempt to assassinate one of my tormentors by weaving around his feet as he was walking. I must try this again tomorrow -- but at the top of the stairs.
I am convinced that the other prisoners here are flunkies and snitches. The dog receives special privileges. He is regularly released - and seems to be more than willing to return. He is obviously retarded.
The bird has got to be an informant. I observe him communicating with the guards regularly. I am certain that he reports my every move. My captors have arranged protective custody for him in an elevated cell, so he is safe. For now.........
Thursday, October 09, 2008
CONGRATS Renee Holland Davidson-September Prompt Winner
Hey bloggies....
Please join me in congratulating Renee in the comment section of this post. Her (very funny) entry won September's Prompt contest on my blog.
She will receive a free Steeple Hill book as her prize.
October's prompt is up and entries are down which means more of a shot at winning.
So hurry and get those in!
Warmly,
Cheryl
Please join me in congratulating Renee in the comment section of this post. Her (very funny) entry won September's Prompt contest on my blog.
She will receive a free Steeple Hill book as her prize.
October's prompt is up and entries are down which means more of a shot at winning.
So hurry and get those in!
Warmly,
Cheryl
Wednesday, October 08, 2008
2008 Christian Fiction Releases
This list brought to you by Jill Eileen Smith:
1. A Constant Heart by Siri Mitchell from Bethany House Publishers. In Queen Elizabeth’s court…beauty is a curse, friendship is bought and sold, and true love is the unpardonable sin.
2. A Little Bit of Faith, The Precious Girl's Club Book One by Cindy Kenney from Precious Moments Inc. Girls will discover how having a little bit of faith can help them overcome big challenges in this first book of a new series that encourages girls to celebrate the unique ways God made each one of them special and "precious in His sight."
3. A Taste of Murder, The Classical Trio Series Book 1 by Virginia Smith from Steeple Hill Love Inspired Suspense. When a young woman attends a small town's Bar-B-Q Festival, she stumbles across the path of a ruthless killer who's had a taste of murder... and is hungry for more.
4. Buffalo Gal, South Dakota Weddings series Book 1 by Mary Connealy from Heartsong Presents. A vegetarian and a cattle rancher go to war and fall in love.
5. Engaging Father Christmas (a novella) Sequel to Finding Father Christmas by Robin Jones Gunn from FaithWords. Miranda Carson returns to England to spend Christmas with Ian, now her boyfriend and her recently located family; unforeseen circumstances stand in the way of a happy Christmas.
6. Longings of the Heart Sydney Cover Series Book 2 by Bonnie Leon from Revell Publishing. John and Hannah Bradshaw survived betrayal and imprisonment. Now as they reach for a new beginning one evil heart lies waiting to tear their lives apart.
7. Love Finds You in Snowball, Arkansas, Launch book for Love Finds You series by Sandra D. Bricker from Summerside Press. Full-on, laugh-out-loud romantic comedy for the inspirational romance market.
8. My Sister Dilly by Maureen Lang from Tyndale House. Two sisters; one committed the unthinkable, one will never forgive herself.
9. On A Whim, The Katie Weldon Series Book 3 by Robin Jones Gunn from Zondervan. Katie and Rick are ready to move their relationship forward but as they make that step Katie’s life comes unglued leading her to rely on God’s plans for her.
10. Out of Her Hands, Sequel to Searching for Spice by Megan DiMaria from Tyndale House Publishers. Her children are making questionable choices, her father-in-law’s is coping with loss, and her best friend’s moving away. How can Linda manage when it’s really all out of her hands?
11. Snowbound Colorado Christmas by Susan Page Davis, Tamela Hancock Murray, Darlene Franklin, and Lena Nelson Dooley from Barbour. Love snowballs in four couples’ lives during the Blizzard of 1913. If they live through the storm, will love be there to greet each young woman on Christmas morn?
12. The Case of the Bouncing Grandma, Bouncing Grandma Mysteries Book 1 by A.K. Arenz from Sheaf House. Has Glory hit her head one too many times or was there really a foot dangling from the back of that carpet?
13. The Christmas Kite by Gail Gaymer Martin from Steeple Hill. An eight year old disabled boy provides the catalyst for his mother's and a reclusive kite builder's healing, as he opens their eyes to God's promises and love beyond understanding.
14. The Face of Deceit, Jackson's Retreat Series Book 2 by Ramona Richards from Steeple Hill/Love Inspired Suspense. When Karen O'Neill's "face vases" spark murder, art crime investigator Mason DuBroc knows a long-hidden secret is appearing in her art . . . a secret someone will kill for.
15. The Shape of Mercy by Susan Meissner from WaterBrook Press. The 300-year-old diary of a victim of the Salem Witch Trials challenges a young English major's worldview.
16. Waiting for Daybreak by Kathryn Cushman from Bethany House. A young pharmacist must choose between exposing negligence or keeping the job that's paying her dying mother's medical bills.
17. Walk with Me, Contemporary Minnesota series Book 1 by Becky Melby and Cathy Wienke from Barbour Publishing. When the first parolee in the Sanctuary program run by Sydney Jennet’s church turns out to be a handsome blue-eyed believer, her small town, and her heart, are no longer safe.
There are many more releases this month, but these were the ones turn into Jill.
Hugs all,
Cheryl
1. A Constant Heart by Siri Mitchell from Bethany House Publishers. In Queen Elizabeth’s court…beauty is a curse, friendship is bought and sold, and true love is the unpardonable sin.
2. A Little Bit of Faith, The Precious Girl's Club Book One by Cindy Kenney from Precious Moments Inc. Girls will discover how having a little bit of faith can help them overcome big challenges in this first book of a new series that encourages girls to celebrate the unique ways God made each one of them special and "precious in His sight."
3. A Taste of Murder, The Classical Trio Series Book 1 by Virginia Smith from Steeple Hill Love Inspired Suspense. When a young woman attends a small town's Bar-B-Q Festival, she stumbles across the path of a ruthless killer who's had a taste of murder... and is hungry for more.
4. Buffalo Gal, South Dakota Weddings series Book 1 by Mary Connealy from Heartsong Presents. A vegetarian and a cattle rancher go to war and fall in love.
5. Engaging Father Christmas (a novella) Sequel to Finding Father Christmas by Robin Jones Gunn from FaithWords. Miranda Carson returns to England to spend Christmas with Ian, now her boyfriend and her recently located family; unforeseen circumstances stand in the way of a happy Christmas.
6. Longings of the Heart Sydney Cover Series Book 2 by Bonnie Leon from Revell Publishing. John and Hannah Bradshaw survived betrayal and imprisonment. Now as they reach for a new beginning one evil heart lies waiting to tear their lives apart.
7. Love Finds You in Snowball, Arkansas, Launch book for Love Finds You series by Sandra D. Bricker from Summerside Press. Full-on, laugh-out-loud romantic comedy for the inspirational romance market.
8. My Sister Dilly by Maureen Lang from Tyndale House. Two sisters; one committed the unthinkable, one will never forgive herself.
9. On A Whim, The Katie Weldon Series Book 3 by Robin Jones Gunn from Zondervan. Katie and Rick are ready to move their relationship forward but as they make that step Katie’s life comes unglued leading her to rely on God’s plans for her.
10. Out of Her Hands, Sequel to Searching for Spice by Megan DiMaria from Tyndale House Publishers. Her children are making questionable choices, her father-in-law’s is coping with loss, and her best friend’s moving away. How can Linda manage when it’s really all out of her hands?
11. Snowbound Colorado Christmas by Susan Page Davis, Tamela Hancock Murray, Darlene Franklin, and Lena Nelson Dooley from Barbour. Love snowballs in four couples’ lives during the Blizzard of 1913. If they live through the storm, will love be there to greet each young woman on Christmas morn?
12. The Case of the Bouncing Grandma, Bouncing Grandma Mysteries Book 1 by A.K. Arenz from Sheaf House. Has Glory hit her head one too many times or was there really a foot dangling from the back of that carpet?
13. The Christmas Kite by Gail Gaymer Martin from Steeple Hill. An eight year old disabled boy provides the catalyst for his mother's and a reclusive kite builder's healing, as he opens their eyes to God's promises and love beyond understanding.
14. The Face of Deceit, Jackson's Retreat Series Book 2 by Ramona Richards from Steeple Hill/Love Inspired Suspense. When Karen O'Neill's "face vases" spark murder, art crime investigator Mason DuBroc knows a long-hidden secret is appearing in her art . . . a secret someone will kill for.
15. The Shape of Mercy by Susan Meissner from WaterBrook Press. The 300-year-old diary of a victim of the Salem Witch Trials challenges a young English major's worldview.
16. Waiting for Daybreak by Kathryn Cushman from Bethany House. A young pharmacist must choose between exposing negligence or keeping the job that's paying her dying mother's medical bills.
17. Walk with Me, Contemporary Minnesota series Book 1 by Becky Melby and Cathy Wienke from Barbour Publishing. When the first parolee in the Sanctuary program run by Sydney Jennet’s church turns out to be a handsome blue-eyed believer, her small town, and her heart, are no longer safe.
There are many more releases this month, but these were the ones turn into Jill.
Hugs all,
Cheryl
Tuesday, October 07, 2008
TAGGED TRIPLE or QUADRUPLE TIME!
Okay,
I've been tagged TWICE this week by Debby Guisti and Robin Miller. Okay maybe three times because Camy Tang tagged me last week. And Margaret Daley tagged me before that.
I'm supposed to tell you five random and surprising things about myself so here goes:
1. I have a phobia of Popsicle Sticks. No, really. I do.
2. I LOVE NASCAR and dreamed of being both a race car driver and an author one day. At least one dream came true. LOL!
3. I am an organ donor recipient (bone).
4. I am nearly fluent in Spanish.
5. I am also nearly fluent in Spinach. Meaning I LOVE green veggies.
Okay...I'm tagging my critique group:
Danica Favorite McDonald
Pammer James
Michelle Rodgers
Cynthia Hawkins
Plus the two ladies I call The Shredder (whose editing services I use and love)
Camy Tang
Robin Miller writing as Robin Caroll (the great critiquer not the cook although her cooking's not too shabby either). Or...wait..we ate at McDonalds while I was there. Never mind. You'd have to ask Case about that one...her hubby who can never meet mine since their minds are too deviously alike for Robin and I's comfort.
I've been tagged TWICE this week by Debby Guisti and Robin Miller. Okay maybe three times because Camy Tang tagged me last week. And Margaret Daley tagged me before that.
I'm supposed to tell you five random and surprising things about myself so here goes:
1. I have a phobia of Popsicle Sticks. No, really. I do.
2. I LOVE NASCAR and dreamed of being both a race car driver and an author one day. At least one dream came true. LOL!
3. I am an organ donor recipient (bone).
4. I am nearly fluent in Spanish.
5. I am also nearly fluent in Spinach. Meaning I LOVE green veggies.
Okay...I'm tagging my critique group:
Danica Favorite McDonald
Pammer James
Michelle Rodgers
Cynthia Hawkins
Plus the two ladies I call The Shredder (whose editing services I use and love)
Camy Tang
Robin Miller writing as Robin Caroll (the great critiquer not the cook although her cooking's not too shabby either). Or...wait..we ate at McDonalds while I was there. Never mind. You'd have to ask Case about that one...her hubby who can never meet mine since their minds are too deviously alike for Robin and I's comfort.
Monday, October 06, 2008
CONGRATS LEY! WINNER OF COURTING MISS ADELAIDE
Ley...
CONGRATS!!!!
You have won the drawing for Courting Miss Adelaide from Janet Dean.
WOO-HOO!
Thanks to everyone else who entered.
If you didn't win this WONDERFUL book, I hope you will jaunt out and purchase it. You won't be sorry. Janet has become one of my favorite historical authors.
Hugs,
Cheryl
CONGRATS!!!!
You have won the drawing for Courting Miss Adelaide from Janet Dean.
WOO-HOO!
Thanks to everyone else who entered.
If you didn't win this WONDERFUL book, I hope you will jaunt out and purchase it. You won't be sorry. Janet has become one of my favorite historical authors.
Hugs,
Cheryl
Wednesday, October 01, 2008
BLOG POLL-READER, WRITER or BOTH
Hey bloggernuts,
I'm trying to learn to tailor my blog more toward my actual blog readership. Experts say that we should target either readers or writers with our blogs. I have a feeling I have an equal mix of both.
So if you read my blog on any kind of regular basis, even sporadically, please let me know in the comment section if you are a reader, a writer or both.
Speak up. Don't be shy! I know you're out there. LOL!
Cheryl Wyatt
I'm trying to learn to tailor my blog more toward my actual blog readership. Experts say that we should target either readers or writers with our blogs. I have a feeling I have an equal mix of both.
So if you read my blog on any kind of regular basis, even sporadically, please let me know in the comment section if you are a reader, a writer or both.
Speak up. Don't be shy! I know you're out there. LOL!
Cheryl Wyatt
October 2008 Prompt
October Prompt Contest
RULES:
• Write a 500 word scene using all ten Prompt Words.
• Begin each scene using one of three Scene Starter Sentences.
• Mail your scenes in the body of an e-mail to Cheryl @ CherylWyatt . com (close spaces before and after “@” and “.”) If the e-mail bounces back to you, please let me know in the comment of this post.
• Put “October Prompt Contest” in the subject line.
• Entry deadline is the last day of the month.
• Winners will be notified the first week of the next month.
• Winners will receive a free Steeple Hill book, mailed the month winners are notified.
• All monthly entrants (not just winners) will be entered into the annual contest for one of several chances to win a six month subscription to any Steeple Hill line of their choice.
• Entries will not be posted or published anywhere and entrants retain all rights to their work.
• New prompts will be posted on the first of the month.
• Most of all, have fun!
October Prompt Words
1. Pumpkin
2. Relay
3. Tractor
4. Hayride
5. Cider
6. Apple
7. Jacket
8. Set
9. Sit
10. Sat
October Scene Starter Sentences:
“Will you go with me?”
“I’m scared to ask him.”
“He could use a friend right now.”
Happy writing!
Cheryl Wyatt
RULES:
• Write a 500 word scene using all ten Prompt Words.
• Begin each scene using one of three Scene Starter Sentences.
• Mail your scenes in the body of an e-mail to Cheryl @ CherylWyatt . com (close spaces before and after “@” and “.”) If the e-mail bounces back to you, please let me know in the comment of this post.
• Put “October Prompt Contest” in the subject line.
• Entry deadline is the last day of the month.
• Winners will be notified the first week of the next month.
• Winners will receive a free Steeple Hill book, mailed the month winners are notified.
• All monthly entrants (not just winners) will be entered into the annual contest for one of several chances to win a six month subscription to any Steeple Hill line of their choice.
• Entries will not be posted or published anywhere and entrants retain all rights to their work.
• New prompts will be posted on the first of the month.
• Most of all, have fun!
October Prompt Words
1. Pumpkin
2. Relay
3. Tractor
4. Hayride
5. Cider
6. Apple
7. Jacket
8. Set
9. Sit
10. Sat
October Scene Starter Sentences:
“Will you go with me?”
“I’m scared to ask him.”
“He could use a friend right now.”
Happy writing!
Cheryl Wyatt
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
August's Prompt Winner-Vincent Mooney
Interesting thing, I have nearly as many men authors as I do women authors who enter my prompt contests each month. There have been male winners before, but they've been too shy to have their names posted.
Last month's entry was ecclectic and out of this world. Seriously, it was a speculative fiction piece that captured my attention. Very intriguing work.
Please join me in congratulating Vincent Mooney for winning August's prompt contest.
Since I don't have his permission to post his e-mail address, leave your notes of congratulaions for Vincent here in the comment section of this blog post.
Only one day left to enter September's prompt. Get those entries in! :-)
Warmly,
Cheryl
Last month's entry was ecclectic and out of this world. Seriously, it was a speculative fiction piece that captured my attention. Very intriguing work.
Please join me in congratulating Vincent Mooney for winning August's prompt contest.
Since I don't have his permission to post his e-mail address, leave your notes of congratulaions for Vincent here in the comment section of this blog post.
Only one day left to enter September's prompt. Get those entries in! :-)
Warmly,
Cheryl
Monday, September 29, 2008
Janet Dean-Blog Tour and GIVEAWAY!!!
I am VERY excited today to welcome Love Inspired debut Historical author, good friend and Seeker sister, Janet Dean. I LOVE her writing and suspect that you will too! Definitely pick up a copy of her debut novel, Courting Miss Adelaide if you haven't already.
FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A FREE, AUTOGRAPHED COPY OF "COURTING MISS ADELAIDE" LEAVE A COMMENT BEFORE MIDNIGHT CST ON OCTOBER 2 BELOW ASKING TO BE ENTERED. WINNER'S NAME WILL BE DRAWN OCTOBER 3.
Now, an exclusive interview with Janet:
INTERVIEW WITH JANET DEAN
If your heroine could blurb you, the author of her book, what might she say?
Adelaide waited a long time to see her story in print. She’d probably say, “It’s about time, JD!” Then she’d shake a finger at me for putting her through all that anguish. LOL. But Adelaide is a woman of gratitude so she’d see the positive side and thank me for giving her a HEA ending.
What are three things you have to have near you when you write, and why?
Water—nothing impressive about that, but if it’s not on my desk, I’m dying of thirst, yet put off getting it. Writing with a cotton mouth and my tongue hanging on the keyboard isn’t pretty.
Post It® notes—I use oodles of them, jotting reminders to myself about anything and everything. I toss them on the floor near my computer and take them downstairs when I refill my glass of water. See how I’m tying all this together? J Those notes keep me organized.
My Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary—I use it to check the year words came into usage, a must for historical writers. The word water dates to before the 12th Century. Sorry, I couldn’t resist.
What resources do you use for your historical research for dress, language, etc.?
Besides my Webster’s Collegiate, I use American Heritage’s Dictionary of Idioms that dates expressions. I also refer to Writer’s Guide to Everyday Life in the 1800s and The Writer’s Guide to Everyday Life in the Wild West for language and all aspects of life during that era. For clothing I use American Victorian Costume in Early Photographs by Priscilla Harris Dalrymple and Eyewitness Books’ Costume. And of course information is on the Internet, only a click away. If I’m not careful, I can spend hours researching online. Hours I don’t have.
What was your favorite scene to write and why?
My favorite scene to write in Courting Miss Adelaide was near the end of the book, between Charles and William. It’s a precious time of healing for both of them. Writing that scene was emotional for me. Though I also loved writing the ending and the scene where Adelaide had it out with Charles and-- I’ll shut up.
What do you have in the works right now?
I’m deep into promoting Courting Miss Adelaide. So that means setting up book signings, mailing bookmarks, posting on blogs—doing all I can get the word out. My second book Courting the Doctor’s Daughter will release in May 2009. I expect final edits in October. I’m working on the proposal for my third book.
How can readers visit you online?
My Web site: janetdean.net
E-mail me at janet@janetdean.net
My Blog: Cup of Faith
The Seeker group blog: Seekerville
If your hero time-traveled to modern day, where is the first place he'd go and what would he do and why?
As editor and owner of the Noblesville Ledger, Charles would head to the modern-day Ledger where he’d grab a chair in front of a computer and log on to the Internet. He’d be fascinated by the high-speed communication and connection with the world under his fingertips. And amazed his printing press had gone the way of the dinosaurs.
Thanks, Cheryl, for having me on your blog. I had a great time!
I enjoyed your visit! And I'm SO excited about the release of Courting Miss Adelaide as well as Courting the Doctor's daughter! I look forward to many, many more books from you!
Again, as a reminder, Janet's upcoming releases:
Courting Miss Adelaide, Steeple Hill Love Inspired Historical, September 2008
Courting the Doctor's Daughter, Steeple Hill Love Inspired Historical, May 2009
www.janetdean.net
www.janetdean.blogspot.com
www.seekerville.blogspot.com
Come and enter our contests at Seekerville!
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Visit Sistahfaith
Fellow author friend and sistah Marilynn Griffith developed a new social networking site named for her upcoming book Sistahfaith-- Believing Beyond Boundaries.
As she says, "SistahFaith is a multi-ethnic network of believers. We believe in God and in each other. We're holding hands and believing beyond boundaries. Join us!"
Take a look: Sistahfaith
Cheryl Wyatt
As she says, "SistahFaith is a multi-ethnic network of believers. We believe in God and in each other. We're holding hands and believing beyond boundaries. Join us!"
Take a look: Sistahfaith
Cheryl Wyatt
Friday, September 26, 2008
STORYBOARDING ON SEEKERVILLE
Heads up!!! the Pikes Peak Romance Writers and Pam McCutcheon are going
to be in Seekerville with their Portable Plotting Board.
Here is the blurb to share on your loops and blogs.
Friday, September 26th we are thrilled to welcome
Pam McCutcheon, and the Pikes Peak Romance Writers
to Seekerville to discuss their Portable Plotting Board-- as seen in
the RWR.
Don't miss it and a chance to win your own Portable Plotting Board!
Check it out at http://www.seekerville.blogspot.com/
If you're a writer...this will be of interest to you because you can use the board at any stage of the plotting game. Before you write a word or after you've written The End.
If you're a reader...this will give you insight into how MUCH WORK some of your favorite authors actually put into a book so you can enjoy it. My favorite authors make it look so seamless and that amazes me.
Cheryl
to be in Seekerville with their Portable Plotting Board.
Here is the blurb to share on your loops and blogs.
Friday, September 26th we are thrilled to welcome
Pam McCutcheon, and the Pikes Peak Romance Writers
to Seekerville to discuss their Portable Plotting Board-- as seen in
the RWR.
Don't miss it and a chance to win your own Portable Plotting Board!
Check it out at http://www.seekerville.blogspot.com/
If you're a writer...this will be of interest to you because you can use the board at any stage of the plotting game. Before you write a word or after you've written The End.
If you're a reader...this will give you insight into how MUCH WORK some of your favorite authors actually put into a book so you can enjoy it. My favorite authors make it look so seamless and that amazes me.
Cheryl
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Single Sashimi Blog Tour
I'm THRILLED beyond belief to welcome back my good friend and stellar writer...CAMY TANG!
I have SO looked forward to the release of this book and hope you have two. Her first two books, Sushi for One and Only Uni are still available whereever books are sold.
If ya haven't read these....go get 'em! :-)
And especially get this book...Camy named a character after me and Pammer!
Look for Pamela Wyatt....
How kewl is that? Pammer sez we're kinda flirty. How FUN! I did NOT know Camy was gonna do that.
Without further hoopla on my part...here's Camy:
Interview with Camy Tang
1. If your heroine for Single Sashimi could take you on a trip, where would you go and what would you do?
She’d probably take me to Comicon. Seriously. I mean, she’s involved in the video game industry—where else would she go to have fun?
2. If your hero was there, how would he strike up a conversation with your heroine?
He’d probably grab her and kiss her. :) Don’t you like him already???
3. What was the funnest scene for you to write in this book?
The first kiss. :) :) :) :) :)
4. Did you know the plot or the characters in this book first? Can you share a bit of this process?
I am very anal retentive about my plotting. I try to know absolutely everything ahead of time.
When I first start out, I use Post It notes that I stick all over my closet doors. This is my brainstorming time, and eventually I cull the ideas I don’t use.
Then I write a sketchy plot outline on an Excel spreadsheet.
Then I plot out each individual scene so I know what I’m trying to accomplish in each scene. (Did I mention I’m anal?)
Then I write the story.
5. Do you plot all your books the same? If so, how so?
Pretty much the same method. This current book I’m writing, Deadly Intent, is a little different. I’m in the writing phase, but I keep finding plot inconsistencies that I didn’t see when I was plotting, so I have to do some restructuring while I’m writing.
6. Who was the hardest character to flesh out in Single Sashimi and why?
Drake was hardest, I think. He ended up being a bit different than what I’d pictured him to be. In the book, he’s a lot stronger and yet more quiet than I had originally planned him. I like him better this way, but it was still surprising and difficult to write him.
7. What's in the works next for you? When can readers expect your next book?
My next book is Deadly Intent, a romantic suspense coming out from Steeple Hill’s Love Inspired Suspense line. I’m loving the storyline and the setting. Here’s a blurb, although I don’t think this will be the back cover blurb for the book:
Massage therapist Naomi Grant could use a massage herself.
With her father at home recovering from a stroke, Naomi is put in charge of the family’s elite day spa in Sonoma county. The new responsibilities sit awkwardly on her shoulders, and things only get worse when handsome Dr. Devon Knightley breezes into the spa, demanding to see one of the female clients.
And the woman is found dead in Naomi’s massage room.
Suddenly, Naomi is a suspect and her family’s spa is shut down. How could God let this awful thing happen?
Devon only needed to see his ex-wife about a family necklace she still hadn’t returned, but when she dies and it’s discovered that her necklace—his family’s necklace—has been stolen, he’s the prime suspect.
Naomi and her family’s calm faith in this situation baffles him, but he’s more than willing to pair with the vivacious massage therapist to try to prove they’re both innocent.
However, the real murderer is still in Sonoma ... and their work isn’t done yet.
Thanks for having me on your blog, Cheryl!
Camy Tang writes romance with a kick of wasabi. She used to be a biologist, but now she is a staff worker for her church youth group and leads a worship team for Sunday service. She also runs the Story Sensei fiction critique service. On her blog, she gives away Christian novels every Monday and Thursday, and she ponders frivolous things like dumb dogs (namely, hers), coffee-geek husbands (no resemblance to her own...), the writing journey, Asiana, and anything else that comes to mind.
Visit her website at http://www.camytang.com/ (or click header link above) for a huge website contest going on right now, giving away ten boxes of books and 30 copies of her latest release, SINGLE SASHIMI.
Thanks for being here Camy!
Hugs all
Cheryl
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Funny Typo Day
Okay so it's not an official holiday...except in Seekerville.
But, humor me okay? LOL!
I'm guestblogging in Seekerville today.
Zip on over to hear (and contribute to) a list of funny typos I've done and read lately. Come on y'all...don't let me be embarrassed alone.
Thanks all!
Cheryl Wyatt
But, humor me okay? LOL!
I'm guestblogging in Seekerville today.
Zip on over to hear (and contribute to) a list of funny typos I've done and read lately. Come on y'all...don't let me be embarrassed alone.
Thanks all!
Cheryl Wyatt
Monday, September 15, 2008
Miscellaneous Mondays--Kewl Pararescue Stuff
As you may know, my Wings of Refuge Series, being released by Steeple Hill, features a team of U.S. Air Force Pararescue Jumpers...PJs for short.
Did you know that in addition to doing military-sanctioned rescues such as jumping behind enemy lines to rescue downed pilots, PJs also participate in humanitarian civilian rescues?
In fact, many PJs are converging on flooded coastal areas flooded by hurricane Ike to help rescue people.
Here are some articles you might enjoy:
Pararescue Article 1
Pararescue Article 2
Pararescue Article 3
Pararescue Article 4
My prayers are with all hurricane victims. I'm thanking God today that things weren't as bad as expected.
For more information on where to purchase my PJ series, visit my Website
Warmly,
Cheryl Wyatt
Did you know that in addition to doing military-sanctioned rescues such as jumping behind enemy lines to rescue downed pilots, PJs also participate in humanitarian civilian rescues?
In fact, many PJs are converging on flooded coastal areas flooded by hurricane Ike to help rescue people.
Here are some articles you might enjoy:
Pararescue Article 1
Pararescue Article 2
Pararescue Article 3
Pararescue Article 4
My prayers are with all hurricane victims. I'm thanking God today that things weren't as bad as expected.
For more information on where to purchase my PJ series, visit my Website
Warmly,
Cheryl Wyatt
Saturday, September 13, 2008
ACFW Conference and Booksigning PRESS RELEASE
I'll be MIA next week at the American Christian Fiction Writers conference. I'm also participating in this mega booksigning. There will also be author panels (info below). Hope to see some of you there! I'm teaching a late night chat on Thursday with Editor Emily Rodmell and fellow Steeple Hill author Dana Mentink on how to rise from the slush pile at Steeple Hill. I'm sitting at table 66 at the signing in the mall rotunda. Hope you will come out and meet some of your favorite authors. They'd love to meet you.
What: Booksigning and Author Panels at Mall of America (Bloomington, MN)
Who: 130-ish Christian novelists
Where: Bloomingdale's court, 1st floor
When: 1-3 p.m., Saturday, September 20, 2008
Why: To meet your favorite Christian authors and because we love our readers
Authors participating:
Tamera Alexander
Jennifer AlLee
A.K. Arenz
Diane Ashley
Karen Ball
Janet Lee Barton
James Scott Bell
Joseph Bentz
Terri Blackstock
Robin Caroll
Patricia PacJac Carroll
Jeanie Smith Cash
Eleanor Clark
Debra Clopton
Gloria Clover
Brandilyn Collins
Mary Connealy
Lyn Cote
Kathryn Cushman
Margaret Daley
KM Daughters
Susan Page Davis
Mary Davis
Janet Dean
Megan DiMaria
Brandt Dodson
Lena Nelson Dooley
Cecelia Dowdy
Sharon Dunn
Wanda Dyson
Lynette Eason
Meredith Efken
Leanna Ellis
Sharon Ewell Foster
Miralee Ferrell
Tina Ann Forkner
Darlene Franklin
Jonathan Friesen
Rhonda Gibson
Terri Gillespie
Debby Giusti
Beth Goddard
Cathy Gohlke
Rene Gutteridge
Cathy Marie Hake
Rachel Hauck
Roxanne Henke
Cynthia Hickey
Patti Hill
Sharon Hinck
Joan Hochstetler
Steven Hunt
Angela Hunt
Denise Hunter
Annette Irby
Jennifer Johnson
Jenny B. Jones
Golden Keyes Parsons
Deb Kinnard
Julie Klassen
Kathleen Kovach
Harry Kraus
Patti Lacy Maureen Lang
Jeanne Marie Leach
Tosca Lee
Julie Lessman
Michelle Levigne
Sherri L. Lewis
Elizabeth Ludwig
Christine Lynxwiler
Richard L. Mabry
Sharlene MacLaren
Gail Martin
Debby Mayne
Vickie McDonough
Andrew McGuire
Susan Meissner
Becky Melby
Dana Mentink
Amber Miller
Judith Miller
Sara Mills
Siri Mitchell
Nancy Moser
Janelle Mowery
Elizabeth Musser
Mark Mynheir
Jill Nelson
Mae Nunn
John Olson
Donita K. Paul
Trish Perry
Marta Perry
Allie Pleiter
Cara Putman
Deborah Raney
Sandra Robbins
Paul Robertson
John Robinson
Martha Rogers
Cynthia Ruchti
Gail Sattler
Kim Vogel Sawyer
Shelley Shephard Gray
Virginia Smith
Lynette Sowell
Candice Speare
Kathryn Springer
Denice Stewart
Sarah Anne Sumpolec
Michelle Sutton
Camy Tang
Donn Taylor
Janice Thompson
Cindy Thomson
Missy Tippens
Carrie Turansky
ML Tyndall
Amy Wallace
Susan May Warren
Linda Wichman
Beth Wiseman
Cheryl Wyatt
Kathleen Y'Barbo
Many authors will have contests and giveaways and lots of good freebies. I'm hosting a drawing myself for an Amazon Kindle and will have the sign up sheet there.
Here's more info...an official press release:
-----------------------------------------------
Glass Road Public Relations, LLC
fax (615) 986-9517
www.GlassRoadPR.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 8, 2008
Contact: Rebeca Seitz
(615) 986-9516; rebeca@glassroadpr.com
HUNDREDS OF NOVELISTS COMING TO MINNEAPOLIS
Booksigning by 100+ novelists at Mall of America September 20
(MINNEAPOLIS, MINN.) Hundreds of authors and aspiring authors will attend the annual
American Christian Fiction Writers conference at the Sheraton Bloomington Hotel September
18-21, 2008. They'll study the craft of writing from a Christian worldview, get the word out
about their books, and meet with editors from nearly every major publishing house in their in-
dustry.
They're also coming to get signed books. On Saturday, September 20, 1:00-3:00pm in the Best
Buy® Rotunda and Bloomingdale's Court of the Mall of America, over 100 bestselling and
award-winning authors such as Angela Hunt, James Scott Bell, Rene Gutteridge, Deborah Ra-
ney, Tamera Alexander, Judith Miller, Nancy Moser, and Brandt Dodson will sign copies of
their books for conference attendees and the public.
"ACFW is very excited to partner with the Mall of America in hosting a booksigning of such
magnitude," said ACFW President Robin Miller. "As a reader myself, I'm thrilled at the oppor-
tunity to meet so many authors and have my books autographed. I intend to do much of my
Christmas shopping at the booksigning."
For more information regarding the signing or conference, please contact Cara Putman at pr@acfw.com. To learn more about ACFW, visit www.acfw.com.
What: Booksigning and Author Panels at Mall of America (Bloomington, MN)
Who: 130-ish Christian novelists
Where: Bloomingdale's court, 1st floor
When: 1-3 p.m., Saturday, September 20, 2008
Why: To meet your favorite Christian authors and because we love our readers
Authors participating:
Tamera Alexander
Jennifer AlLee
A.K. Arenz
Diane Ashley
Karen Ball
Janet Lee Barton
James Scott Bell
Joseph Bentz
Terri Blackstock
Robin Caroll
Patricia PacJac Carroll
Jeanie Smith Cash
Eleanor Clark
Debra Clopton
Gloria Clover
Brandilyn Collins
Mary Connealy
Lyn Cote
Kathryn Cushman
Margaret Daley
KM Daughters
Susan Page Davis
Mary Davis
Janet Dean
Megan DiMaria
Brandt Dodson
Lena Nelson Dooley
Cecelia Dowdy
Sharon Dunn
Wanda Dyson
Lynette Eason
Meredith Efken
Leanna Ellis
Sharon Ewell Foster
Miralee Ferrell
Tina Ann Forkner
Darlene Franklin
Jonathan Friesen
Rhonda Gibson
Terri Gillespie
Debby Giusti
Beth Goddard
Cathy Gohlke
Rene Gutteridge
Cathy Marie Hake
Rachel Hauck
Roxanne Henke
Cynthia Hickey
Patti Hill
Sharon Hinck
Joan Hochstetler
Steven Hunt
Angela Hunt
Denise Hunter
Annette Irby
Jennifer Johnson
Jenny B. Jones
Golden Keyes Parsons
Deb Kinnard
Julie Klassen
Kathleen Kovach
Harry Kraus
Patti Lacy Maureen Lang
Jeanne Marie Leach
Tosca Lee
Julie Lessman
Michelle Levigne
Sherri L. Lewis
Elizabeth Ludwig
Christine Lynxwiler
Richard L. Mabry
Sharlene MacLaren
Gail Martin
Debby Mayne
Vickie McDonough
Andrew McGuire
Susan Meissner
Becky Melby
Dana Mentink
Amber Miller
Judith Miller
Sara Mills
Siri Mitchell
Nancy Moser
Janelle Mowery
Elizabeth Musser
Mark Mynheir
Jill Nelson
Mae Nunn
John Olson
Donita K. Paul
Trish Perry
Marta Perry
Allie Pleiter
Cara Putman
Deborah Raney
Sandra Robbins
Paul Robertson
John Robinson
Martha Rogers
Cynthia Ruchti
Gail Sattler
Kim Vogel Sawyer
Shelley Shephard Gray
Virginia Smith
Lynette Sowell
Candice Speare
Kathryn Springer
Denice Stewart
Sarah Anne Sumpolec
Michelle Sutton
Camy Tang
Donn Taylor
Janice Thompson
Cindy Thomson
Missy Tippens
Carrie Turansky
ML Tyndall
Amy Wallace
Susan May Warren
Linda Wichman
Beth Wiseman
Cheryl Wyatt
Kathleen Y'Barbo
Many authors will have contests and giveaways and lots of good freebies. I'm hosting a drawing myself for an Amazon Kindle and will have the sign up sheet there.
Here's more info...an official press release:
-----------------------------------------------
Glass Road Public Relations, LLC
fax (615) 986-9517
www.GlassRoadPR.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 8, 2008
Contact: Rebeca Seitz
(615) 986-9516; rebeca@glassroadpr.com
HUNDREDS OF NOVELISTS COMING TO MINNEAPOLIS
Booksigning by 100+ novelists at Mall of America September 20
(MINNEAPOLIS, MINN.) Hundreds of authors and aspiring authors will attend the annual
American Christian Fiction Writers conference at the Sheraton Bloomington Hotel September
18-21, 2008. They'll study the craft of writing from a Christian worldview, get the word out
about their books, and meet with editors from nearly every major publishing house in their in-
dustry.
They're also coming to get signed books. On Saturday, September 20, 1:00-3:00pm in the Best
Buy® Rotunda and Bloomingdale's Court of the Mall of America, over 100 bestselling and
award-winning authors such as Angela Hunt, James Scott Bell, Rene Gutteridge, Deborah Ra-
ney, Tamera Alexander, Judith Miller, Nancy Moser, and Brandt Dodson will sign copies of
their books for conference attendees and the public.
"ACFW is very excited to partner with the Mall of America in hosting a booksigning of such
magnitude," said ACFW President Robin Miller. "As a reader myself, I'm thrilled at the oppor-
tunity to meet so many authors and have my books autographed. I intend to do much of my
Christmas shopping at the booksigning."
For more information regarding the signing or conference, please contact Cara Putman at pr@acfw.com. To learn more about ACFW, visit www.acfw.com.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Wacky Wednesdays--Theft Problem--IMPORTANT MESSAGE:
I'm sorry but, as a woman heading into middle age, this was too funny not to pass along.
Cheryl
Theft Problem - IMPORTANT MESSAGE:
You've heard about people who have been abducted and had their kidneys removed by black-market organ thieves.
My thighs were stolen from me during the night a few years ago. I went to sleep and woke up with someone else's thighs. It was just that quick. The replacements had the texture of cooked oatmeal. Whose thighs were these and what happened to mine? I spent the entire summer looking for my thighs. Finally, hurt and angry, I resigned myself to living out my life in jeans. And then the thieves struck again.
My butt was next. I knew it was the same gang, because they took pains to match my new rear-end to the thighs they had stuck me with earlier. But my new butt was attached at least three inches lower than my original! I realized I'd have to give up my jeans in favor of long skirts.
Two years ago I realized my arms had been switched. One morning I was fixing my hair and was horrified to see the flesh of my upper arm swing to and fro with the motion of the hairbrush. This was really getting scary - my body was being replaced one section at a time. What could they do to me next?
When my poor neck suddenly disappeared and was replaced with a turkey neck, I decided to tell my story. Women of the world, wake up and smell the coffee! Those 'plastic' surgeons are using REAL replacement body parts -stolen from you and me! The next time someone you know has something 'lifted', look again - was it lifted from you?
THIS IS NOT A HOAX. This is happening to women everywhere every night.
WARN YOUR FRIENDS!
P. S. Last year I thought some one had stolen my Boobs. I was lying in bed and they were gone! But when I jumped out of bed, I was relieved to see that they had just been hiding in my armpits as I slept. Now I keep them hidden in my waistband.
Thought this was too 'important' not to pass on.
P.S.
These same thieves come in my closet and shrink my clothes! How do they do it????
Cheryl
Theft Problem - IMPORTANT MESSAGE:
You've heard about people who have been abducted and had their kidneys removed by black-market organ thieves.
My thighs were stolen from me during the night a few years ago. I went to sleep and woke up with someone else's thighs. It was just that quick. The replacements had the texture of cooked oatmeal. Whose thighs were these and what happened to mine? I spent the entire summer looking for my thighs. Finally, hurt and angry, I resigned myself to living out my life in jeans. And then the thieves struck again.
My butt was next. I knew it was the same gang, because they took pains to match my new rear-end to the thighs they had stuck me with earlier. But my new butt was attached at least three inches lower than my original! I realized I'd have to give up my jeans in favor of long skirts.
Two years ago I realized my arms had been switched. One morning I was fixing my hair and was horrified to see the flesh of my upper arm swing to and fro with the motion of the hairbrush. This was really getting scary - my body was being replaced one section at a time. What could they do to me next?
When my poor neck suddenly disappeared and was replaced with a turkey neck, I decided to tell my story. Women of the world, wake up and smell the coffee! Those 'plastic' surgeons are using REAL replacement body parts -stolen from you and me! The next time someone you know has something 'lifted', look again - was it lifted from you?
THIS IS NOT A HOAX. This is happening to women everywhere every night.
WARN YOUR FRIENDS!
P. S. Last year I thought some one had stolen my Boobs. I was lying in bed and they were gone! But when I jumped out of bed, I was relieved to see that they had just been hiding in my armpits as I slept. Now I keep them hidden in my waistband.
Thought this was too 'important' not to pass on.
P.S.
These same thieves come in my closet and shrink my clothes! How do they do it????
Monday, September 08, 2008
MISCELLANEOUS MONDAYS-APHORISMS AND ADAGES
THIS CAME FROM SOMEONE IN MY LOCAL WRITERS' GROUP. NO IDEA WHO THE ORIGINAL AUTHOR IS OR I'D CREDIT THEM.
ENJOY!
Cheryl Wyatt
APHORISM: A SHORT, POINTED SENTENCE EXPRESSING A WISE, CLEVER OBSERVATION; A GENERAL TRUTH OR ADAGE
1. The nicest thing about the future is it always starts tomorrow.
2. Money will buy a fine dog but only kindness will make him wag his tail.
3. If you don't have a sense of humor, you probably don't have any sense at all.
4. Seat belts are not as confining as wheelchairs.
5. A good time to keep your mouth shut is when you're in deep water.
6. How come it takes so little time for a child who is afraid of the dark to become a teenager who wants to stay out all night?
7. Business conventions are important because they demonstrate how many people a company can operate without.
8. Why is it that, at class reunions, you feel younger than everyone else looks?
9. Scratch a dog and you'll find a permanent job.
10. No one has more driving ambition than the boy who anxiously awaits his 16th birthday.
11. There are no new sins; the old ones just get more publicity.
12. There are worse things than getting a call for a wrong number at 4AM: It could be a right number.
13. No one ever says "It's only a game" when their team's winning.
14. I've reached the age where the happy hour is a nap.
15. Be careful reading the fine print. There's no way you're going to like it.
16. The trouble with bucket seats is not everybody has the same size bucket.
17. Do you realize in about 40 years we'll have millions of old ladies running around with tattoos? (And rap music will be the Golden Oldies!)
18. Money can't buy happiness - but somehow it's more comfortable to cry in a Mercedes than in a Kia..
19. After 70 if you don't wake up aching in every joint, you are probably dead .
20. Adage - byword (a condensed but memorable saying embodying some important fact of experience that is taken as true by many people)
ENJOY!
Cheryl Wyatt
APHORISM: A SHORT, POINTED SENTENCE EXPRESSING A WISE, CLEVER OBSERVATION; A GENERAL TRUTH OR ADAGE
1. The nicest thing about the future is it always starts tomorrow.
2. Money will buy a fine dog but only kindness will make him wag his tail.
3. If you don't have a sense of humor, you probably don't have any sense at all.
4. Seat belts are not as confining as wheelchairs.
5. A good time to keep your mouth shut is when you're in deep water.
6. How come it takes so little time for a child who is afraid of the dark to become a teenager who wants to stay out all night?
7. Business conventions are important because they demonstrate how many people a company can operate without.
8. Why is it that, at class reunions, you feel younger than everyone else looks?
9. Scratch a dog and you'll find a permanent job.
10. No one has more driving ambition than the boy who anxiously awaits his 16th birthday.
11. There are no new sins; the old ones just get more publicity.
12. There are worse things than getting a call for a wrong number at 4AM: It could be a right number.
13. No one ever says "It's only a game" when their team's winning.
14. I've reached the age where the happy hour is a nap.
15. Be careful reading the fine print. There's no way you're going to like it.
16. The trouble with bucket seats is not everybody has the same size bucket.
17. Do you realize in about 40 years we'll have millions of old ladies running around with tattoos? (And rap music will be the Golden Oldies!)
18. Money can't buy happiness - but somehow it's more comfortable to cry in a Mercedes than in a Kia..
19. After 70 if you don't wake up aching in every joint, you are probably dead .
20. Adage - byword (a condensed but memorable saying embodying some important fact of experience that is taken as true by many people)
Wednesday, September 03, 2008
Wacky Wednesdays-The Difference Between Men and Women
I'm doing amusing (at least to me!) stuff on Wednesdays on my blog. Wacky Wednesdays will also include Funeez, Fru-Fru Forwards, and my Famous (Ha-ha!) Blush & Cringe.
THIS CAME TO ME IN AN E-MAIL. NOT SURE WHO THE AUTHOR IS OR I WOULD ACKNOWLEGE THEM.
ENJOY...IF YOU DARE. LOL!
Warmly,
Cheryl Wyatt
MEN ARE JUST HAPPIER PEOPLE
NICKNAMES
If Laura, Kate and Sarah go out for lunch, they will call each other
Laura, Kate and Sarah.
If Mike, Dave and John go out, they will affectionately
refer to each
other as Fat Boy, Godzilla and Four-eyes.
EATING OUT
When the bill arrives, Mike, Dave and John will each throw
in $20, even
though it's only for $32.50. None of them will have
anything smaller and
none will actually admit they want change back.
When the girls get their bill, out come the pocket
calculators.
MONEY
A man will pay $2 for a $1 item he needs.
A woman will pay $1 for a $2 item that she doesn't need
but it's on sale.
BATHROOMS
A man has six items in his bathroom: toothbrush and
toothpaste, shaving
cream, razor, a bar of soap, and a towel .
The average number of items in the typical woman's
bathroom is 337. A man
would not be able to identify more than 20 of these items.
ARGUMENTS
A woman has the last word in any argument.
Anything a man says after that is the beginning of a new
argument.
FUTURE
A woman worries about the future until she gets a husband.
A man never worries about the future until he gets a wife.
SUCCESS
A successful man is one who makes more money than his wife
can spend.
A successful woman is one who can find such a man.
MARRIAGE
A woman marries a man expecting he will change, but he
doesn't.
A man marries a woman expecting that she won't change,
but she does.
DRESSING UP
A woman will dress up to go shopping, water the plants,
empty the trash,
answer the phone, read a book, and get the mail.
A man will dress up for weddings and funerals.
NATURAL
Men wake up as good-looking as they went to bed.
Women somehow deteriorate during the night.
OFFSPRING
Ah, children. A woman knows all about her chil dren. She
knows about
dentist appointments and romances, best friends, favorite
foods, secret
fears and hopes and dreams.
A man is vaguely aware of some short people living in the
house.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
A married man should forget his mistakes. There's no
use in two people
remembering the same thing!
SO, send this to the women who have a sense of humor and
who can handle it
... and to the men who will enjoy reading it.
THIS CAME TO ME IN AN E-MAIL. NOT SURE WHO THE AUTHOR IS OR I WOULD ACKNOWLEGE THEM.
ENJOY...IF YOU DARE. LOL!
Warmly,
Cheryl Wyatt
MEN ARE JUST HAPPIER PEOPLE
NICKNAMES
If Laura, Kate and Sarah go out for lunch, they will call each other
Laura, Kate and Sarah.
If Mike, Dave and John go out, they will affectionately
refer to each
other as Fat Boy, Godzilla and Four-eyes.
EATING OUT
When the bill arrives, Mike, Dave and John will each throw
in $20, even
though it's only for $32.50. None of them will have
anything smaller and
none will actually admit they want change back.
When the girls get their bill, out come the pocket
calculators.
MONEY
A man will pay $2 for a $1 item he needs.
A woman will pay $1 for a $2 item that she doesn't need
but it's on sale.
BATHROOMS
A man has six items in his bathroom: toothbrush and
toothpaste, shaving
cream, razor, a bar of soap, and a towel .
The average number of items in the typical woman's
bathroom is 337. A man
would not be able to identify more than 20 of these items.
ARGUMENTS
A woman has the last word in any argument.
Anything a man says after that is the beginning of a new
argument.
FUTURE
A woman worries about the future until she gets a husband.
A man never worries about the future until he gets a wife.
SUCCESS
A successful man is one who makes more money than his wife
can spend.
A successful woman is one who can find such a man.
MARRIAGE
A woman marries a man expecting he will change, but he
doesn't.
A man marries a woman expecting that she won't change,
but she does.
DRESSING UP
A woman will dress up to go shopping, water the plants,
empty the trash,
answer the phone, read a book, and get the mail.
A man will dress up for weddings and funerals.
NATURAL
Men wake up as good-looking as they went to bed.
Women somehow deteriorate during the night.
OFFSPRING
Ah, children. A woman knows all about her chil dren. She
knows about
dentist appointments and romances, best friends, favorite
foods, secret
fears and hopes and dreams.
A man is vaguely aware of some short people living in the
house.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
A married man should forget his mistakes. There's no
use in two people
remembering the same thing!
SO, send this to the women who have a sense of humor and
who can handle it
... and to the men who will enjoy reading it.
Monday, September 01, 2008
September 2008 Prompt
September Prompt Contest
RULES:
• Write a 500 word scene using all ten Prompt Words.
• Begin each scene using one of three Scene Starter Sentences.
• Mail your scenes in the body of an e-mail to Cheryl @ CherylWyatt . com (close spaces before and after “@” and “.”) If the e-mail bounces back to you, please let me know in the comment of this post.
• Put “September Prompt Contest” in the subject line.
• Entry deadline is the last day of the month.
• Winners will be notified the first week of the next month.
• Winners will receive a free Steeple Hill book, mailed the month winners are notified.
• All monthly entrants (not just winners) will be entered into the annual contest for one of several chances to win a six month subscription to any Steeple Hill line of their choice.
• Entries will not be posted or published anywhere and entrants retain all rights to their work.
• New prompts will be posted on the first of the month.
• Most of all, have fun!
September Prompt Words
1. Hear
2. Here
3. Higher
4. Hire
5. Heir
6. Air
7. Pear
8. Pare
9. Pair
10. Meeting
Happy writing!
Cheryl Wyatt
September Scene Starter Sentences:
“That doesn’t make sense.”
“I never met that uncle.”
“You’ve got to be kidding me.”
RULES:
• Write a 500 word scene using all ten Prompt Words.
• Begin each scene using one of three Scene Starter Sentences.
• Mail your scenes in the body of an e-mail to Cheryl @ CherylWyatt . com (close spaces before and after “@” and “.”) If the e-mail bounces back to you, please let me know in the comment of this post.
• Put “September Prompt Contest” in the subject line.
• Entry deadline is the last day of the month.
• Winners will be notified the first week of the next month.
• Winners will receive a free Steeple Hill book, mailed the month winners are notified.
• All monthly entrants (not just winners) will be entered into the annual contest for one of several chances to win a six month subscription to any Steeple Hill line of their choice.
• Entries will not be posted or published anywhere and entrants retain all rights to their work.
• New prompts will be posted on the first of the month.
• Most of all, have fun!
September Prompt Words
1. Hear
2. Here
3. Higher
4. Hire
5. Heir
6. Air
7. Pear
8. Pare
9. Pair
10. Meeting
Happy writing!
Cheryl Wyatt
September Scene Starter Sentences:
“That doesn’t make sense.”
“I never met that uncle.”
“You’ve got to be kidding me.”
Friday, August 29, 2008
Southern Friends
I'm still unable to drive following a motor vehicle accident and resulting surgeries, but once I'm able to make it to the Post Office regularly (we don't have courier pick up here) I will begin the Free Book Fridays where I'll give away a free Steeple Hill book EVERY FRIDAY to one lucky blog commentator.
In the meantime...thought I'd share this.
One of my best Southern friends sent it to me (waving to Robin Miller w/a Robin Caroll). I appreciated it since I moved from the West to the Southern tip of a mid-western state.
FRIENDS" VS. "SOUTHERN" FRIENDS
FRIENDS: Never ask for food.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Always bring the
food. And lots of it.
FRIENDS: Will say "hello".
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Will give you a big
hug and a kiss. More than one.
FRIENDS: Call your parents Mr. And Mrs.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Call your parents
Mom and Dad, and often.
FRIENDS: Have never seen you cry.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Cry with you. And for you.
FRIENDS: Will eat at your dinner table and leave.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Will spend hours
there, talking, laughing, and just being together.
Then do the dishes before leaving
FRIENDS: Know a few things about you.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Could write a book
with direct quotes from you. And most of the
time know you better than you do yourself.
FRIENDS: Will leave you behind if that's
what the crowd is doing.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Will kick the whole
crowd's back-ends that left you, then walk
beside you in the front of the crowd.
FRIENDS: Would knock on your door.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Walk right in and
say, "Are you home?" If you are not home, they will wait.
FRIENDS: Are for a while.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Are for life. And then some.
I have been Blessed with SOUTHERN FRIENDS
As Robin says so well....LOVE Y'all!
Cheryl Wyatt
In the meantime...thought I'd share this.
One of my best Southern friends sent it to me (waving to Robin Miller w/a Robin Caroll). I appreciated it since I moved from the West to the Southern tip of a mid-western state.
FRIENDS" VS. "SOUTHERN" FRIENDS
FRIENDS: Never ask for food.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Always bring the
food. And lots of it.
FRIENDS: Will say "hello".
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Will give you a big
hug and a kiss. More than one.
FRIENDS: Call your parents Mr. And Mrs.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Call your parents
Mom and Dad, and often.
FRIENDS: Have never seen you cry.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Cry with you. And for you.
FRIENDS: Will eat at your dinner table and leave.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Will spend hours
there, talking, laughing, and just being together.
Then do the dishes before leaving
FRIENDS: Know a few things about you.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Could write a book
with direct quotes from you. And most of the
time know you better than you do yourself.
FRIENDS: Will leave you behind if that's
what the crowd is doing.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Will kick the whole
crowd's back-ends that left you, then walk
beside you in the front of the crowd.
FRIENDS: Would knock on your door.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Walk right in and
say, "Are you home?" If you are not home, they will wait.
FRIENDS: Are for a while.
SOUTHERN FRIENDS: Are for life. And then some.
I have been Blessed with SOUTHERN FRIENDS
As Robin says so well....LOVE Y'all!
Cheryl Wyatt
Monday, August 25, 2008
Miscellaneous Mondays--Dandy Definitions
Since I'm reformatting the way I do my blog posts, I'll only be posting three days or so a week. Miscellaneous Mondays will be just what it says. Random stupid stuff and personal updates.
Speaking of...I've had two more minor surgeries since my recent wreck in April. And though I'm still on crutches trying to progress to a cane, I'm healing well. Still not full weight bearing or able to drive, but much improved from a month or two ago. Thanks for all of your private words of kindness and prayers. I know He hears.
Now, presenting the first Miscellaneous Monday post:
THIS CAME FROM SOMEONE IN MY LOCAL WRITER'S GROUP. NOT SURE IF I HAVE POSTED IT BEFORE. IF SO, IT'S FUNNY AND BEARS REPEATING.
ENJOY!
CHERYL WYATT
ADULT
A person who has stopped growing at both ends and is now growing in the middle.
BEAUTY PARLOR
A place where women curl up and dye.
CANNIBAL
Someone who is fed up with people.
CHICKENS
The only animals you eat before they are born and after they die.
COMMITTEE
A body that keeps minutes and wastes hours.
DUST
Mud with the juice squeezed out.
EGOTIST
Someone who is me-deep in conversation.
HANDKERCHIEF
Cold storage.
INFLATION
Cutting money in half without damaging the paper.
MOSQUITO
An insect that makes you like flies better.
RAISIN
Grape with a sunburn.
SECRET
Something you tell to one person at a time.
SKELETON
A bunch of bones with the person scraped off.
TOOTHACHE
The pain that drives you to extraction.
TOMORROW
One of the greatest labor-saving devices of today.
YAWN
An honest opinion openly expressed.
WRINKLES
Something other people have, similar to my character lines.
Speaking of...I've had two more minor surgeries since my recent wreck in April. And though I'm still on crutches trying to progress to a cane, I'm healing well. Still not full weight bearing or able to drive, but much improved from a month or two ago. Thanks for all of your private words of kindness and prayers. I know He hears.
Now, presenting the first Miscellaneous Monday post:
THIS CAME FROM SOMEONE IN MY LOCAL WRITER'S GROUP. NOT SURE IF I HAVE POSTED IT BEFORE. IF SO, IT'S FUNNY AND BEARS REPEATING.
ENJOY!
CHERYL WYATT
ADULT
A person who has stopped growing at both ends and is now growing in the middle.
BEAUTY PARLOR
A place where women curl up and dye.
CANNIBAL
Someone who is fed up with people.
CHICKENS
The only animals you eat before they are born and after they die.
COMMITTEE
A body that keeps minutes and wastes hours.
DUST
Mud with the juice squeezed out.
EGOTIST
Someone who is me-deep in conversation.
HANDKERCHIEF
Cold storage.
INFLATION
Cutting money in half without damaging the paper.
MOSQUITO
An insect that makes you like flies better.
RAISIN
Grape with a sunburn.
SECRET
Something you tell to one person at a time.
SKELETON
A bunch of bones with the person scraped off.
TOOTHACHE
The pain that drives you to extraction.
TOMORROW
One of the greatest labor-saving devices of today.
YAWN
An honest opinion openly expressed.
WRINKLES
Something other people have, similar to my character lines.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Announcing July's Prompt Winner--Anita Draper
Huge congrats going out to Anita Draper...my July Prompt Contest winner.
All of the stories this month were riveting and I found it very hard to choose a winner. But Anita's story and characters stuck with me. I hope she will stretch the scene out into a full length short story or even a book length novel.
Visit Anita's blog and tell her "Congrats!"
Anita's Blog
Or click the header link above to get to Anita's blog.
There's one more week to get August's prompt in! Wow..the months are flying by!
Warmly,
Cheryl
All of the stories this month were riveting and I found it very hard to choose a winner. But Anita's story and characters stuck with me. I hope she will stretch the scene out into a full length short story or even a book length novel.
Visit Anita's blog and tell her "Congrats!"
Anita's Blog
Or click the header link above to get to Anita's blog.
There's one more week to get August's prompt in! Wow..the months are flying by!
Warmly,
Cheryl
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Wednesday-Borrowed Prayers
I'm reformatting my blog posts and dropping down to three to four a week rather than seven a week. That way I don't lose readership for the folks who are subscribed by Feedblitz and also so I can continue to consistently blog even while under deadline. Blogger has this awesome new feature that allows you to schedule previously written blog posts. I love it. Cutting back will also enable me to be able to comment on your comments more.
I do appreciate each of you and am thankful for your readership. For that reason, I'm devoting my Borrowed Prayers (previously on Sunday...now on Wednesdays) to you...my faithful blog and book readers.
Father, thank you SO much for the privilege of being able to write. Thank you SO much for these people who take time out of their day to read my books and or blog posts. I lift each of them up to you today and ask you to bless them. I pray you would let them know how much they are appreciated by me, Lord. I know this writing gift is from you. I pray you would bless them with the desires of their hearts that are your perfect will for them. Many are still waiting for promises that you've made them to come to pass. Help them to believe. Help them to hope. Help them to persevere through the hard seasons and cling to you like a warm coat in harsh, winter wind. Help them to enjoy the seasons where struggle is light and life is as bright as summer's sun. Bless their families. Give them a strong sense of your presence as you draw near to them today. Let them know how real you are and how much they are loved. In Jesus' name. Amen.
I do appreciate each of you and am thankful for your readership. For that reason, I'm devoting my Borrowed Prayers (previously on Sunday...now on Wednesdays) to you...my faithful blog and book readers.
Father, thank you SO much for the privilege of being able to write. Thank you SO much for these people who take time out of their day to read my books and or blog posts. I lift each of them up to you today and ask you to bless them. I pray you would let them know how much they are appreciated by me, Lord. I know this writing gift is from you. I pray you would bless them with the desires of their hearts that are your perfect will for them. Many are still waiting for promises that you've made them to come to pass. Help them to believe. Help them to hope. Help them to persevere through the hard seasons and cling to you like a warm coat in harsh, winter wind. Help them to enjoy the seasons where struggle is light and life is as bright as summer's sun. Bless their families. Give them a strong sense of your presence as you draw near to them today. Let them know how real you are and how much they are loved. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Reasons for a Scene & Building up Scenes-in Seekerville today
I'm guestblogging in Seekerville today.
Zip on over to hear (and contribute to) a list of Reasons for a Scene
Thanks all!
Cheryl Wyatt
Zip on over to hear (and contribute to) a list of Reasons for a Scene
Thanks all!
Cheryl Wyatt
Monday, August 18, 2008
Great Industry Blog-CJ Darlington
CJ Darlington has a great blog that has a lot of great advice from industry professionals, including authors, editors, agents and publishers.
Here is the link:
CJ Darlington's Blog
Cheryl Wyatt
Here is the link:
CJ Darlington's Blog
Cheryl Wyatt
Thursday, August 14, 2008
BLUSH & CRINGE--Batteries and Band-Aids
I had surgery Tuesday to remove the pins from my right foot. I had general anesthesia during and pain meds afterward. I also had to have Benadryl and Narcan because of an allergic reaction. So between all those drugs, I was pretty groggy and loopy when I came out of surgery.
On the way home, I was still groggy since it was a same-day surgery.
My poor husband had to listen to me ARGUE all the way home over something so stupid. I basically kept insisting that he had to run through the pharmacy drive through and pick up the batteries for my foot.
The convo (which went on for around twelve miles) went something like this...only longer as I argued the point.
"Don't forget the batteries when you fill my subscription."
"You mean prescription?"
"Yes, yes. My pain med prescription and the batteries."
"Batteries?"
"Yes."
"For what?"
"The doctor said I need them for my foot."
"Huh?"
"So don't forget them. The big ones."
"Big what?"
"Batteries. For my foot. I need the batteries for my foot."
"You're not making sense."
"Yes, I'm telling you he said I need batteries for my foot."
Husband gives a strange look. "Why batteries?"
"Because!"
"Batteries? Like, what size?"
"Yes. Big ones. The big kind with no Latex."
"Batteries? Go back to sleep."
"No. You'll forget the batteries."
"You don't need batteries. I never heard him mention batteries and you're not making sense."
"Yes! Yes, the doctor said I have to have batteries in my foot after five days."
Husband laughs. "No. He said you have to have Band-aids after five days."
Oh....the joy of anesthesia.
Cheryl Wyatt-embarrassed but laughing
On the way home, I was still groggy since it was a same-day surgery.
My poor husband had to listen to me ARGUE all the way home over something so stupid. I basically kept insisting that he had to run through the pharmacy drive through and pick up the batteries for my foot.
The convo (which went on for around twelve miles) went something like this...only longer as I argued the point.
"Don't forget the batteries when you fill my subscription."
"You mean prescription?"
"Yes, yes. My pain med prescription and the batteries."
"Batteries?"
"Yes."
"For what?"
"The doctor said I need them for my foot."
"Huh?"
"So don't forget them. The big ones."
"Big what?"
"Batteries. For my foot. I need the batteries for my foot."
"You're not making sense."
"Yes, I'm telling you he said I need batteries for my foot."
Husband gives a strange look. "Why batteries?"
"Because!"
"Batteries? Like, what size?"
"Yes. Big ones. The big kind with no Latex."
"Batteries? Go back to sleep."
"No. You'll forget the batteries."
"You don't need batteries. I never heard him mention batteries and you're not making sense."
"Yes! Yes, the doctor said I have to have batteries in my foot after five days."
Husband laughs. "No. He said you have to have Band-aids after five days."
Oh....the joy of anesthesia.
Cheryl Wyatt-embarrassed but laughing
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
POPCORN BLUSH AND CRINGE
My hubby and I went on a date a few Saturday nights prior to my wreck in April. We normally go out to eat first then watch a movie, but we were running behind so we decided to hit the movies first.
I was so immersed in polishing my ms in prep to send it off that I forgot to eat that day. I'm serious...not until I got low-bloodsugar-shaky did I realize I hadn't eaten and here it was 4:30pm. So I munched on a raw turnip and had a few nibbles of a Pecan Spinwheel with a cup of coffee. Bad move. Not used to the sugar, eating the sweet roll WITH A TURNIP on a virtually empty stomach made me nauseaus...so I didn't eat anything else.
By the time we got to the theatre, it was nearly seven-thirty and I was HUNGRY. I saw the daughter of a couple we're friends with and went across the lobby to chat with her.
Then I rejoined my husband at the concession stand. He was at the register, so I assumed the tub of popcorn and soda sitting there was ours.
He. He. He.
I reach over, scoop a handful and toss it in my mouth then reach for the soda.
"Nuh-uh."
I turn around...and a woman with her two children (who are giving me REALLY disgusted looks) snatch the sodas....and yes...the tub of popcorn and walk off.
Whoops. They'd just come up to get a refill. And I'd taken liberty to just plow my hands into their popcorn and eat it like it's completely normal for people to eat other people's food without their permission.
Ya know...I'm REALLY glad I didn't reach for that soda first. Yuck.
Did my husband comfort me in my scorn?
Nope. He stood there, dying laughing. And so did the register clerk.
But then dear hubby bought me my very own tub of popcorn...so it's all good.
Cheryl "Popcorn-thief" Wyatt
I was so immersed in polishing my ms in prep to send it off that I forgot to eat that day. I'm serious...not until I got low-bloodsugar-shaky did I realize I hadn't eaten and here it was 4:30pm. So I munched on a raw turnip and had a few nibbles of a Pecan Spinwheel with a cup of coffee. Bad move. Not used to the sugar, eating the sweet roll WITH A TURNIP on a virtually empty stomach made me nauseaus...so I didn't eat anything else.
By the time we got to the theatre, it was nearly seven-thirty and I was HUNGRY. I saw the daughter of a couple we're friends with and went across the lobby to chat with her.
Then I rejoined my husband at the concession stand. He was at the register, so I assumed the tub of popcorn and soda sitting there was ours.
He. He. He.
I reach over, scoop a handful and toss it in my mouth then reach for the soda.
"Nuh-uh."
I turn around...and a woman with her two children (who are giving me REALLY disgusted looks) snatch the sodas....and yes...the tub of popcorn and walk off.
Whoops. They'd just come up to get a refill. And I'd taken liberty to just plow my hands into their popcorn and eat it like it's completely normal for people to eat other people's food without their permission.
Ya know...I'm REALLY glad I didn't reach for that soda first. Yuck.
Did my husband comfort me in my scorn?
Nope. He stood there, dying laughing. And so did the register clerk.
But then dear hubby bought me my very own tub of popcorn...so it's all good.
Cheryl "Popcorn-thief" Wyatt
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Christian the Lion-A Must-See Vid!
I thought you might find the following article from snopes.com interesting: Christian the Lion
I think this is awesome!
Bawled my eyes out.
Click the link and play the video. You won't be sorry.
Let me know what you think.
Cheryl Wyatt
I think this is awesome!
Bawled my eyes out.
Click the link and play the video. You won't be sorry.
Let me know what you think.
Cheryl Wyatt
Monday, August 11, 2008
KOD Classes
I will post interviews from these September instructors soon!
In the meantime, if you are a mystery/suspense writer...you may be interested in these September online classes:
Murder One Online Course for September 2008
************ ********Permission to Forward***** ********* ********* *****
RWA's Mystery/Suspense Chapter is pleased to announce our COFFIN, College of Felony and Intrigue, MURDER ONE online workshop for the month of SEPTEMBER 2008.
WORKSHOP: A Cop's Life A - Z
Have you ever wondered what it's like to go in pursuit of a fleeing vehicle or be in an officer-involved shooting? Do you know the difference between burglary and robbery?
What does ego have to do with being a police officer? These questions and more will be answered in the Kiss of Death COFFIN online workshop in September 2008. The instructor, Los Angeles Police Officer Kathy Bennett, will present twenty-six "lectures" on A Cop's Life A - Z and answer any resulting questions. Don't miss out on this opportunity to go behind the badge and find out what it's really like to be a cop.
Instructor: Kathy Bennett
Kathy Bennett has been a Los Angeles Police Officer for eighteen years currently assigned as a Senior Lead Officer with approximately seven square miles of the City of Los Angeles assigned to her. She is responsible for crime and quality of life issues within those seven square miles and if things aren't going well, the Chief of Police will want to talk to her and find out why.
Kathy's career with the LAPD began in 1973 as a civilian employee of the department and in 1990 she fulfilled a childhood dream of becoming a sworn police officer. Most of Kathy's career has been spent on patrol in a black and white police car, but she's also been a Firearms Instructor at the LAPD Police Academy, a crime analyst in the "War Room", a Field Training Officer, worked undercover in various assignments and is a certified DARE instructor. She's been named Officer of the Quarter twice, and Officer of the Year once.
MURDER ONE workshops encompass the technical aspects of murder and mayhem.
**PAYMENT MUST BE RECEIVED BY THE 27TH day of the month PRIOR to the start of the COFFIN class. Cost of each workshop is $15.00 US for KOD members, $30.00 US for non-KOD members (RWA membership NOT required to take the course).
For more information check out our website at http://www.rwamyste rysuspense. org
************ ********Permission to Forward***** ********* ********* *****
RWA's Mystery/Suspense Chapter is pleased to announce our COFFIN, College of Felony and Intrigue, KILLER INSTINCT online workshop for the month of SEPTEMBER 2008.
WORKSHOP: A Method for Plotting Madness
Wondering whether your book is as fast-paced as it can be? Troubled by the intricacies of balancing suspense and romance? Confused over whether your scenes are indeed building to a breakneck, satisfying conclusion, or whether they're simply making your reader wish she'd picked up a washing machine maintenance manual instead? This course can help!
Blending several tried-and-true fiction-writing sources with her own peculiar methods, Tracy Montoya shows you how to start your book with a bang, keep the pacing tight and the romance and suspense plots focused, and how to stage a final confrontation that's satisfying and suspenseful. You'll receive plenty of instructor feedback and--whether you're a "plotter" or a "pantser"--you' ll walk away with a grid you can use to plot or revise all of your future stories.
INSTRUCTOR: Tracy Montoya
Tracy Montoya has been writing for Harlequin Intrigue since 2000. Her books have won the Daphne du Maurier award, the Beacon Award, and the Golden Quill award for romantic suspense A member of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists and the Society of Environmental Journalists, Tracy has written about everything from Booker Prize-winning poet MartÃn Espada to socially responsible mutual funds to soap opera summits. Her articles have appeared in a variety of publications, including Hope, Utne, Satya, YES!, Audubon, and the National Green Pages, and she writes a syndicated column called "The Spirit of Money" for Martha Stewart's Body + Soul. Prior to launching her journalism career, she taught in an under-resourced school in Louisiana through the AmeriCorps Teach for America program.
Tracy holds a Master's degree in English literature from Boston College and a B.A. in the same from St. Mary's University. When she's not writing, she likes to scuba dive, forget to go to kickboxing class, wallow in bed with a good book, or get out her guitar with a group of friends and pretend she's Suzanne Vega.
KILLERINSTINCT workshops encompass writing and craft topics.
**PAYMENT MUST BE RECEIVED BY THE 27TH day of the month PRIOR to the start of the COFFIN class. Cost of each workshop is $15.00 US for KOD members, $30.00 US for non-KOD members. (RWA membership NOT required to take the course).
For more information check out our website at http://www.rwamysterysuspense.org
************ ********* *Permission to Forward***** ********* ********* *
In the meantime, if you are a mystery/suspense writer...you may be interested in these September online classes:
Murder One Online Course for September 2008
************ ********Permission to Forward***** ********* ********* *****
RWA's Mystery/Suspense Chapter is pleased to announce our COFFIN, College of Felony and Intrigue, MURDER ONE online workshop for the month of SEPTEMBER 2008.
WORKSHOP: A Cop's Life A - Z
Have you ever wondered what it's like to go in pursuit of a fleeing vehicle or be in an officer-involved shooting? Do you know the difference between burglary and robbery?
What does ego have to do with being a police officer? These questions and more will be answered in the Kiss of Death COFFIN online workshop in September 2008. The instructor, Los Angeles Police Officer Kathy Bennett, will present twenty-six "lectures" on A Cop's Life A - Z and answer any resulting questions. Don't miss out on this opportunity to go behind the badge and find out what it's really like to be a cop.
Instructor: Kathy Bennett
Kathy Bennett has been a Los Angeles Police Officer for eighteen years currently assigned as a Senior Lead Officer with approximately seven square miles of the City of Los Angeles assigned to her. She is responsible for crime and quality of life issues within those seven square miles and if things aren't going well, the Chief of Police will want to talk to her and find out why.
Kathy's career with the LAPD began in 1973 as a civilian employee of the department and in 1990 she fulfilled a childhood dream of becoming a sworn police officer. Most of Kathy's career has been spent on patrol in a black and white police car, but she's also been a Firearms Instructor at the LAPD Police Academy, a crime analyst in the "War Room", a Field Training Officer, worked undercover in various assignments and is a certified DARE instructor. She's been named Officer of the Quarter twice, and Officer of the Year once.
MURDER ONE workshops encompass the technical aspects of murder and mayhem.
**PAYMENT MUST BE RECEIVED BY THE 27TH day of the month PRIOR to the start of the COFFIN class. Cost of each workshop is $15.00 US for KOD members, $30.00 US for non-KOD members (RWA membership NOT required to take the course).
For more information check out our website at http://www.rwamyste rysuspense. org
************ ********Permission to Forward***** ********* ********* *****
RWA's Mystery/Suspense Chapter is pleased to announce our COFFIN, College of Felony and Intrigue, KILLER INSTINCT online workshop for the month of SEPTEMBER 2008.
WORKSHOP: A Method for Plotting Madness
Wondering whether your book is as fast-paced as it can be? Troubled by the intricacies of balancing suspense and romance? Confused over whether your scenes are indeed building to a breakneck, satisfying conclusion, or whether they're simply making your reader wish she'd picked up a washing machine maintenance manual instead? This course can help!
Blending several tried-and-true fiction-writing sources with her own peculiar methods, Tracy Montoya shows you how to start your book with a bang, keep the pacing tight and the romance and suspense plots focused, and how to stage a final confrontation that's satisfying and suspenseful. You'll receive plenty of instructor feedback and--whether you're a "plotter" or a "pantser"--you' ll walk away with a grid you can use to plot or revise all of your future stories.
INSTRUCTOR: Tracy Montoya
Tracy Montoya has been writing for Harlequin Intrigue since 2000. Her books have won the Daphne du Maurier award, the Beacon Award, and the Golden Quill award for romantic suspense A member of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists and the Society of Environmental Journalists, Tracy has written about everything from Booker Prize-winning poet MartÃn Espada to socially responsible mutual funds to soap opera summits. Her articles have appeared in a variety of publications, including Hope, Utne, Satya, YES!, Audubon, and the National Green Pages, and she writes a syndicated column called "The Spirit of Money" for Martha Stewart's Body + Soul. Prior to launching her journalism career, she taught in an under-resourced school in Louisiana through the AmeriCorps Teach for America program.
Tracy holds a Master's degree in English literature from Boston College and a B.A. in the same from St. Mary's University. When she's not writing, she likes to scuba dive, forget to go to kickboxing class, wallow in bed with a good book, or get out her guitar with a group of friends and pretend she's Suzanne Vega.
KILLERINSTINCT workshops encompass writing and craft topics.
**PAYMENT MUST BE RECEIVED BY THE 27TH day of the month PRIOR to the start of the COFFIN class. Cost of each workshop is $15.00 US for KOD members, $30.00 US for non-KOD members. (RWA membership NOT required to take the course).
For more information check out our website at http://www.rwamysterysuspense.org
************ ********* *Permission to Forward***** ********* ********* *
Sunday, August 10, 2008
BORROWED PRAYERS
I had another surgery Tuesday to remove the surgical pins put in after my recent car accident. I am facing one more surgery next Tuesday. I have an author friend (waving to Camy Tang!) flying in from San Jose, California to help me for two weeks. Another writer friend (Julie Lessman) and her husband are letting us stay the night with them the day before my surgery since we have to travel to the city in which they live. Just this Thursday at Discipleship Community at church, people from my small group (waving to Nick and Carmen and Marcie) told me that any time I want to come to church or need a ride when hubby is out of town to call and they'll come get me. My cousin's fiance and friend of the family Terylinn is coming to clean my house next week. And Aimee and Laurel and my sister Lisa have been helping with my girls. My mom is the taxi service when I can't be. I have had so much help, prayer and support, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the kindness around me.
My family (parents and sister and brother-in-law, granny, sister-in-law etc.) and friends (from church and small group) and my cousins have sent Get Well cards. Many of my fellow Love Inspired and ACFW authors (pubbed and unpubbed) and my editors have also sent Get Well Cards and e-mails of support and prayers. I also have an online prayer support group who faithfully prays for me. My wonderful cousin Cheryl Rose also posts prayer requests on our My Family Web site and I have lots of people praying for me, including churches I've never even heard of. I know you blog readers have been praying too.
To all, THANK YOU! I pray that you have people in your life just like you.
I could spend all day naming the people who are praying for me and offering to help in various ways. People who heard about the wreck on Edgy Christian Fiction Lovers, Shoutlife, My Space, etc. I've gotten e-mails from all over the world. I thank God for each and every one of you. I am more thankful than words can express.
I have a hard time being the one needing help. Anyone who knows me, knows I'd rather be the one helping. But I know there is a reason God has me going through this. I've been unable to drive all summer and mostly homebound. On crutches with impaired mobility. It has given me a new respect for permanantly disabled people. It has also given me a heart for the homebound. Those who can't drive or get themselves around. Those who are forced by their disability or inability to drive to have to depend on others to take them places.
God is doing something in my heart with this. Not sure what will come out of it but I'm praying for the ability to help others once I'm well. I'm praying that I never forget what it's like not to be able to take myself places or go where I want when I want. I think of all the years and all the people I had no mind of who have been homebound or shut in.
Is there someone in your life like that? Can you think of a way to take them to town for a load of groceries? Or take them to a parade for an hour or to a park? Something, anything to get them outside. Maybe it's a neighbor or a loved one.
Here's my prayer. Please, by all means "borrow" it:
Father, I pray we never take what we have for granted. Our physical abilities. There is always someone worse off than we are. Help us to look beyond ourselves and give us compassion to reach out to those who are shut in. Give us acute sensitivity to know how to help those who are disabled and still maintain their dignity. Help us to include them in our activities and never act in a way that makes them feel burdensome. Help us to include them. We don't want anyone to feel left out or forgotten or abandoned Lord. Give us your heart for these people. Help us not just feel sorry for them or for their situation. Help us to do something about it. In Jesus' name. Amen.
By the way...this is (pictured above) my cousin Donnie. He has been a source of inspiration to me from the time I was young. He is wheelchair bound but that doesn't stop him from getting on his four-wheeler and zooming across his yard. He has such determination and joy. He is a hero to me and my family. Please pray that God blesses him and his family.
Cheryl Wyatt
Saturday, August 09, 2008
Psych Saturday-CAT CHRONICLES
Welcome to the latest, greatest news from Refuge.
In case you don't know what Psych Saturdays are, or Refuge for that matter, let me explain. Cheryl Wyatt (this blog owner) is writing a series for Steeple Hill's Love Inspired about a team of U.S. Air Force pararescue jumpers. She has set the stories in a fictional Southern Illinois town called "Refuge". I am the cat who traipses through Cheryl's Wings of Refuge Series.
The next Wings of Refuge book will release in April of 2009. To tie readers over until then, I'm bringing you the latest, greatest news from Refuge and keeping you up to date on the characters from the first two Wings of Refuge books. They (A Soldier's Promise and A Soldier's Family) released in January and March of 2008.
Moving onward...here's this week's news.
My current owner Celia is watching a pet that one of the PJs has. Chance Garrison has a tender heart for animals. When his PJ team helped rescue people from a flood, he found this hedgehog (above) on top of a roof. He rescued the pet and now Celia is watching it until Chance can locate the owners.
Problem is, Celia is now playing favorites. She put ME on a diet. And, unfortunately it's not a hedgehog diet. The vet said I'm morbidly obese (whatever that means) so now Celia has cut my tuna rations in half! Can you believe that? Sigh.
In other Refuge news, the blog owner, Cheryl just turned in book four and is ready to mail the first three chapters of book five (contracted by Steeple Hill) for release in 2009.
That's all the Refuge news this week.
If Celia turns her head...sneak me some tuna, will ya?
----Psych----
Friday, August 08, 2008
Free Book Fridays?
Hey all,
Once I am able to drive again (we don't have mail courier service here) I will institute a Free Book Friday on my blog. I will pick a winner each week and mail them their choice of a free Love Inspired novel.
How's this sound to everyone?
Thought so...but just checkin....
Cheryl Wyatt
Once I am able to drive again (we don't have mail courier service here) I will institute a Free Book Friday on my blog. I will pick a winner each week and mail them their choice of a free Love Inspired novel.
How's this sound to everyone?
Thought so...but just checkin....
Cheryl Wyatt
Thursday, August 07, 2008
Interview
Carol Ann Ernhardt interviewed me for her blog today.
I hope you will drop by. Or if you have a moment, thank Carol in her comments section for hosting me.
Here's the link: Carol's Blog
Warmly,
Cheryl
I hope you will drop by. Or if you have a moment, thank Carol in her comments section for hosting me.
Here's the link: Carol's Blog
Warmly,
Cheryl
Wednesday, August 06, 2008
Interview with Literary Agent Rachel Zurakowski
Visit Seekerville for a wonderful interview with Literary Agent Rachel Zurakowski of Books & Such.
Interview with Rachel on Seekerville
Rachel will also be available to answer questions so be sure to leave comments.
I had surgery today to remove pins in my foot...and a funny story about that. But I'll save it for the next Blush and Cringe.
Until then....see you in Seekerville!
Hugs all!
Cheryl Wyatt
Interview with Rachel on Seekerville
Rachel will also be available to answer questions so be sure to leave comments.
I had surgery today to remove pins in my foot...and a funny story about that. But I'll save it for the next Blush and Cringe.
Until then....see you in Seekerville!
Hugs all!
Cheryl Wyatt
Tuesday, August 05, 2008
Another Great Industry Blog-Five Scribes
I know several of these ladies personally from other writing loops and contests I've entered and judged. And Audra is a fellow Seeker sister. I highly recommend you add this exciting new blog to your Favorites list.
Five Scribes Blog
Warmly,
Cheryl Wyatt
Five Scribes Blog
Warmly,
Cheryl Wyatt
Monday, August 04, 2008
Soldiers' Angels
Most of you know I'm currently writing a series about a team of U.S. Air Forece Pararescue Jumpers (PJs) for Steeple Hill Love Inspired right now.
Since I have a great respect for our military and those who serve, I wanted to share a link with those of you who wonder how you might help deployed soldiers.
I've been involved with this organization so I know it's legit. I pray you'll consider adopting a soldier through Soldiers' Angels. There are other opportunities to help as well.
Check it out:
Soldier's Angels
Cheryl Wyatt
Since I have a great respect for our military and those who serve, I wanted to share a link with those of you who wonder how you might help deployed soldiers.
I've been involved with this organization so I know it's legit. I pray you'll consider adopting a soldier through Soldiers' Angels. There are other opportunities to help as well.
Check it out:
Soldier's Angels
Cheryl Wyatt
Sunday, August 03, 2008
BORROWED PRAYERS
I wasn't going to post on Sundays, but I decided to reinstate something I used to do on my blog.
I'll post a prayer for you to borrow if you're ever in need of one.
Last Sunday our pastor talked about Peter and how he was the only other person besides Jesus who was known to have walked on water. For a few steps...he really did until he took his eyes off Jesus and let his circumstances (crashing waves, depth of the water, etc.) overwhelm him.
One thing that Sandor said that really clicked with me and cracked the entire congregation up!) was that, at least he got out of the boat and tried. Granted he started sucking water but he stepped over that side into something that should have sank him but his feet of momentary faith found solid footing as long as he kept his eyes on Jesus.
Sandor's point was that there needs to be balance between intellectualism and faith. With too much intellectualism, we miss the supernatural. With not enough, we could end up sucking water. I'm paraphrasing now, but Sandor's words about sucking water were hilarious. He made great points.
First, I'd love to know if any of you have ever tried to actually walk on water? Come on...fess up. Sondor did. I had to laugh when he said that because I remember a day when several of my friends and me tried it...all day...without success. But we tried. And I'll bet that made God smile. And I'll bet it made God smile when Sandor tried too. It takes a certain amount of humility to admit things like that. I'm thankful for leaders in my church who are humble enough to be that transparent. The main way I serve my church is by praying for it. Having the blessing of leaders who love Jesus and are true disciples makes my part easy.
What kind of faith does it take to defy waves and laws of gravity and submersion? I don't have it...apparently. Peter did...if even for a moment. Do you? I don't recommend trying to drown yourself. If you're going to try this at home...please...let it be in a few inches of water and not from the side of a boat unless you're wearing a life jacket or are a great swimmer. LOL! Then again Peter probably wasn't wearing inflatables. LOL! And neither was Jesus. His faith kept him up.
Recently a fellow writer died. I was amazed and inspired by her husband's unfailing faith as he continued Kristy Dyke's blog after her tumor left her unable. And right before that another family friend lost his wife. He said he always thought himself a strong person until the loss of his wife upended him. But, what he didn't realize was how strong he still looked to everyone around him because of his faith and his tears of love for his wife. Please pray for these two men (Micky Robison and Milton Dykes) for their tumultous sea is one of missing their beloved wives and believe me, the waves of grief are some of the strongest life comes crashing with. Their faith doesn't mean they won't grieve or hurt. But their faith will keep them from sinking to the depths of an unseen sea so dark and disabling you won't understand unless you've been there.
Father, we pray that you will empower us to believe you for great and mighty things. Bless our churches with supernatural things that will let people know you're still the same God who parted the sea, turned water into wine and raised people from death. You created the universe with your very breath. Please breathe in us faith. Let it be a living thing. Let our faith make you famous Lord and bring attention to you and not us. Whatever our challenges are today, help us step out of that boat...whatever it may be. Bless our churches and our leaders. Help us reflect you. Give us the kind of faith that you and Peter had when you literally walked across the surface of the sea. Bouy those in our lives who've lost loved ones. Please lift your children up and carry them through the tumult of loss. In Jesus' name, Amen.
I'll post a prayer for you to borrow if you're ever in need of one.
Last Sunday our pastor talked about Peter and how he was the only other person besides Jesus who was known to have walked on water. For a few steps...he really did until he took his eyes off Jesus and let his circumstances (crashing waves, depth of the water, etc.) overwhelm him.
One thing that Sandor said that really clicked with me and cracked the entire congregation up!) was that, at least he got out of the boat and tried. Granted he started sucking water but he stepped over that side into something that should have sank him but his feet of momentary faith found solid footing as long as he kept his eyes on Jesus.
Sandor's point was that there needs to be balance between intellectualism and faith. With too much intellectualism, we miss the supernatural. With not enough, we could end up sucking water. I'm paraphrasing now, but Sandor's words about sucking water were hilarious. He made great points.
First, I'd love to know if any of you have ever tried to actually walk on water? Come on...fess up. Sondor did. I had to laugh when he said that because I remember a day when several of my friends and me tried it...all day...without success. But we tried. And I'll bet that made God smile. And I'll bet it made God smile when Sandor tried too. It takes a certain amount of humility to admit things like that. I'm thankful for leaders in my church who are humble enough to be that transparent. The main way I serve my church is by praying for it. Having the blessing of leaders who love Jesus and are true disciples makes my part easy.
What kind of faith does it take to defy waves and laws of gravity and submersion? I don't have it...apparently. Peter did...if even for a moment. Do you? I don't recommend trying to drown yourself. If you're going to try this at home...please...let it be in a few inches of water and not from the side of a boat unless you're wearing a life jacket or are a great swimmer. LOL! Then again Peter probably wasn't wearing inflatables. LOL! And neither was Jesus. His faith kept him up.
Recently a fellow writer died. I was amazed and inspired by her husband's unfailing faith as he continued Kristy Dyke's blog after her tumor left her unable. And right before that another family friend lost his wife. He said he always thought himself a strong person until the loss of his wife upended him. But, what he didn't realize was how strong he still looked to everyone around him because of his faith and his tears of love for his wife. Please pray for these two men (Micky Robison and Milton Dykes) for their tumultous sea is one of missing their beloved wives and believe me, the waves of grief are some of the strongest life comes crashing with. Their faith doesn't mean they won't grieve or hurt. But their faith will keep them from sinking to the depths of an unseen sea so dark and disabling you won't understand unless you've been there.
Father, we pray that you will empower us to believe you for great and mighty things. Bless our churches with supernatural things that will let people know you're still the same God who parted the sea, turned water into wine and raised people from death. You created the universe with your very breath. Please breathe in us faith. Let it be a living thing. Let our faith make you famous Lord and bring attention to you and not us. Whatever our challenges are today, help us step out of that boat...whatever it may be. Bless our churches and our leaders. Help us reflect you. Give us the kind of faith that you and Peter had when you literally walked across the surface of the sea. Bouy those in our lives who've lost loved ones. Please lift your children up and carry them through the tumult of loss. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Saturday, August 02, 2008
Psych Saturday-CAT CHRONICLES
SPORTS SECTION NEWSPsych here...and I AM psyched today. As you can see, here are the latest scores for Refuge competitions and sports:
CAT-BIRD OUTSMARTING COMPETITION SCORES for Saturday, August 2, 2008.
CATS: 4
BIRDS: 3....er...strike that. 2. He. He. He. Shhhh....don't tell Celia that egg came from the yard....
REFUGE SOCCER TEAM:
Humans: 1 Point
Cats: 2 Points
Ball: forfieted due to injury. Rumor has it, the ball was popped by sharp claws and taken by ambulance to Refuge Community Hospital.
He-he-he.
Pleased-with-himself-Psych
Friday, August 01, 2008
August Prompt Contest
August Prompt Contest
RULES:
• Write a 500 word scene using all ten Prompt Words.
• Begin each scene using one of three Scene Starter Sentences.
• Mail your scenes in the body of an e-mail to Cheryl @ CherylWyatt . com (close spaces before and after “@” and “.”) If the e-mail bounces back to you, please let me know in the comment of this post.
• Put “August Prompt Contest” in the subject line.
• Entry deadline is the last day of the month.
• Winners will be notified the first week of the next month.
• Winners will receive a free Steeple Hill book, mailed the month winners are notified.
• All monthly entrants (not just winners) will be entered into the annual contest for one of several chances to win a six month subscription to any Steeple Hill line of their choice.
• Entries will not be posted or published anywhere and entrants retain all rights to their work.
• New prompts will be posted on the first of the month.
• Most of all, have fun!
August Prompt Words
1. Loose
2. Lose
3. Park
4. Theme
5. Caustic
6. As
7. Like
8. Vein
9. Vain
10. Vane
August Scene Starter Sentences:
“What’s that smell?”
“Something doesn’t feel right.”
“Did you hear that?”
Happy writing!
Cheryl Wyatt
RULES:
• Write a 500 word scene using all ten Prompt Words.
• Begin each scene using one of three Scene Starter Sentences.
• Mail your scenes in the body of an e-mail to Cheryl @ CherylWyatt . com (close spaces before and after “@” and “.”) If the e-mail bounces back to you, please let me know in the comment of this post.
• Put “August Prompt Contest” in the subject line.
• Entry deadline is the last day of the month.
• Winners will be notified the first week of the next month.
• Winners will receive a free Steeple Hill book, mailed the month winners are notified.
• All monthly entrants (not just winners) will be entered into the annual contest for one of several chances to win a six month subscription to any Steeple Hill line of their choice.
• Entries will not be posted or published anywhere and entrants retain all rights to their work.
• New prompts will be posted on the first of the month.
• Most of all, have fun!
August Prompt Words
1. Loose
2. Lose
3. Park
4. Theme
5. Caustic
6. As
7. Like
8. Vein
9. Vain
10. Vane
August Scene Starter Sentences:
“What’s that smell?”
“Something doesn’t feel right.”
“Did you hear that?”
Happy writing!
Cheryl Wyatt
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