Tis the season

I hosted my annual Ornament Swap with my girlfriends on Sunday.
The house is all decorated. Yay! Don't have to worry about that for the rest of the month

Yes I have two trees. Better make that three, there's one in the basement.

And here's the gang. I'm on the top step on the left.


Watch out for Brenda. She's the one on the bottom right step. She's been known to shove people off of furniture to get the ornament she wants. This year I got the jingle bell snowman with the bonus snowflake ornaments. We also started the next generation on ornament swapping. Three daughters were in attendance. I think they had a good time! They were happy with their ornaments. I'm having another one with all the new neighbors this week. We're starting another tradition. It's how I start my season and I love it and my wonderful friends.

Star Trek

Its official, there will be a new Star Trek movie. And I'm not talking a coninutation of the original or one of the many spin-offs. The original Star Trek is being remade. The story is supposed to be Spock heavy and be about the origins of all the characters. It's interesting to see the new cast next to the old cast although I'm not familiar with Chris Pine who will play Kirk, I'm wondering if he can use the cheesiness that William Shatner has to the same effect.

Word is that Leonard Nimoy will make an appearance but no William Shatner which IMHO is a great snub. I'm looking forward to Zachary Qunito as Spock and Karl Urban playing against type as Bones.

The release date is Dec 08 which will be here before we know it.

Happy Thanksgiving

I find I have a lot to be thankful for this Thanksgiving. Hope everyone has a wonderful holiday

Never enough time

I hate deadlines. Just the thought of a deadline makes me shut down in total rebellion. This must be done by this date or else! I've yet to see what the or else is and luckily when I haven't met my deadlines my publisher has been very understanding but still, I just hate them.

I think I understand the reason why now. When turning in my last book, Twist, which will be out in February, I ran up against the brick wall of deadlines. The book was coming along great and would have been done early when my editor threw a kink in the works and said take out all Vampire references. Two hundred pages into the manuscipt and I had to re-evaluate the story and get creative in a hurry. My editor was great and we worked it out and then my dad was diagnosed with cancer. I lost two months, responding to his emergencies, trying to write in hospital rooms, and all the time lost in traveling to and from his home. Plus mentally it was impossible to write. Miracuously, I was only two weeks late on my deadline, but we were already cutting it close and then the book is up against the wall as far as how quickly things have to be done in order for it to be on the shelves come February.

I got my edits from my editor and was allowed two weeks to do them. Once again, I lost a week with my dad but got them in on time. And this past week I just did the page proofs and realized there was so much more to this world to be explored, if only I'd had the time to pursue it. I feel like the story is incomplete, in my mind. There's so much more I want to develop, so much more to explore, so much history to write. If only there was time.

But now I have another deadline. It's March 1 and I've only got three pages written so far. I know come the first of the year I'm going to be in trouble because I can't concentrate now.

I hate deadlines.

Atlantis Awakening

Today is the release of Atlantis Awakening, the third book in the Warriors of Atlantis series by my friend Alyssa Day This is the story of Ven, the biggest and baddest of the Warriors and it is awesome! I must admit I got to read it right after Alyssa finished it and the world she builds is complex and keeps you on the edge of your seat. I am anxiously awaiting the story of Justice along with Ethans story, that will be out in March in an anthology titled Shifter. So run to your book store and pick up Atlantis Awakening now.

Trick or Treat

Some pics of our halloween! Me as guess what, a Pirate!

Me and my sweetie. He wouldn't get the Jack Sparrow costume but at least we're color coordinated.

But Hey, I did find my Captain Jack. Love the eyes. I asked him for some makeup tips and he said he rubbed them after his mommy put it on.

Star Shadows

Its release day for Star Shadows! Woohoo! And Fresh Fiction loves it

From Fresh Fiction


Star Shadows by Colby Hodge

"Futuristic adventure means love among the stars."
Reviewed by Mandy Burns
Posted October 19, 2007


Three friends living in a dangerous world of paranormal phenomenon and mind-controlling enemies are bound to protect each other at any cost. Arielle and Zander Phoenix and Boone have been friends since they were kids. Arielle and Zander are forbidden to leave their home; neither one of them understands why, while Boone claims the freedom they wish they had by being part of the academy and becoming a fighter pilot who travels the galaxy.

Zander becomes frustrated with his lack of power and wants to experience what his friend has seen in other worlds, so he rebels against his parents' judgment. He steals Boone's ship and takes off into a dangerous world he knows nothing about. The secret that Zander's parents have kept from both him and his sister is coming full circle and will affect them all.

STAR SHADOWS, the third book in this futuristic adventure series, casts a fabulous spell over the reader. Colby Hodge has an uncanny knack of connecting readers to the characters in a way that leaves you crying and laughing right along with them. I am excited to read the other books in this series.

I'll be signing Thursday Nov 1 at New Beginnings in Rural Hall NC from 4-7 and Saturday, Nov 3 at Borders, Colony Road Charlotte NC at 3:00. Drop by and say hi! Also will be doing some drive-by signings so check your local book store to see if I've been by.

Petticoats and Pistols

I'm blogging over at Petticoats and Pistols today. Stop by and say hi. We're talking about western TV shows and movies.

Adam Baldwin

Yay. One of my favorite hunks is back in a new series. Adam Balwin is on Chuck. My DVR is busy since it's on opposite Prison Break but still. You gotta love a guy that can chuck a microwave at bad guys. Also glad to see the Jayne sense of humor is coming through. Still Jayne is my favorite roll of his. How can you not love a guy who says "lets be bad guys" I also loved him in Independence Day. I think that's the first time I noticed him.

Rufus Sewell

I've decided to start posting pictures of hunks. Because its fun! My first hottie is Rufus Sewell. I've seen him in countless movies and he's always played the bad guy. I wanted to see him in something romantic and finally saw A Dangerous Beauty last week. I don't know how I missed this movie since it was made ten years ago but I finally ordered it on netflix and was totally enthralled. I kept expecting Rufus to be a jerk since that's what he usually plays and was thrilled that he turned out to be a hero. He does period pieces and costumes well and he was totally sympathetic as Marke in Tristan and Isolde. And loved to hate him in A Knights Tale. If anyone has got recommendations for other movies featuring Rufus Sewell I've love to see them

One more time

Once again I find myself playing catch up. Yes I disappeared for a while. I was trying to finish up Twist while dealing with some serious family health issues. But now Twist is dogoing ne and sitting on my editors desk and the health issue is identified and being treated so life can go on.

So where am I? At the moment, sitting in my kitchen, listening to the sound of a big dozer that occastionally rocks my house. Construction will soon be starting next door. I just hope the house that goes in does not block the wonderful view of the mountains from my screened porch.

I'm contemplating Fallen, my next book. Its the story of John, Carrie's brother and how pride is sometimes your worst enemy. I'm thinking of Izzie for the name of the heroine. Mostly because Izzie from Grey's Anatomy is my inspiration for the woman John is in love with. She's Fallen too. She's has a son is not married. Is John the father? Of course? Does he know? hmmm, might have to wait until next Nov when its released to find that out.

I've been trying to catch up with the nieces and nephews. I watched one play soccer yesterday, will be visiting another on the way to the M&M Conference in Atlanta next week, then going to SC to watch another one play football the following week. Also will be delivering birthday presents to the mob. Can't wait to see them.

Drew is on his way back from AZ on what we call his big adventure. He went out to bring back his buddy Gib who's been in Scottsdale since Jan playing baseball. go Giants! Gib has an old jeep that won't make the trip across country so Drew is hauling it back in a trailor while they get to do the bff bonding thing. They should have adventures at this age. Meanwhile Josh is on his way to Vegas for a weekend. Keep an eye on your wallet!

Meanwhile I'm catching up on stuff, still unpacking boxes and thinking about new stories.

I'll try to keep up!

Talk Like A Pirate Day

It's talk like a pirate day and in honor of such I've posted a picture of my favorite pirate! And in honor of this here are the Top Ten Pickup lines for use on International Talk Like a Pirate Day

10 . Avast, me proud beauty! Wanna know why my Roger is so Jolly?

9. Have ya ever met a man with a real yardarm?

8. Come on up and see me urchins.

7/ Yes, that is a hornpipe in my pocket and I am happy to see you.

6. I'd love to drop anchor in your lagoon.

5. Pardon me, but would ya mind if fired me cannon through your porthole?

4. How'd you like to scrape the barnacles off of me rudder?

3. Ya know, darlin', I'm 97 percent chum free.

2. Well blow me down?And the number one pickup line for use on International Talk Like a Pirate Day is ...

1. Prepare to be boarded."

Signing Schedule

I'm going to be out and about doing some book signings. Please drop by and see me if you're close

THursday August 9 4:00 PM
New Beginngins
Rural Hall NC
More info



Saturday, August 11, 2:00 PM
Borders Express
Princeton WV
More info



Saturday, August 18, 10:00 AM
Walden Books
Columbia, SC 29223
More info



Thursday, August 30, 6:00 PM
Barnes&Noble, Friendly Center
Greensboro NC
More info



Saturday, September 15, 2:00 PM
Walden Books/Hanes Mall
Winston-Salem, NC 27103
More info

Rising Wind will be released on Tuesday, July 31!

FEAR AND DESIRE
The Indians moved on and when she realized that her own group was safe she was overcome with a fit of trembling.
She could not control herself. She was so very tired. So very hungry. So very frightened. She felt the security of Connor’s arms as they came around her and she burrowed her head into his chest. Her hands clutched at his shirt as she moved closer, pressing her body against the length of his. She could not get close enough.
“Shush, mo cridhe,” he whispered. His lips touched the top of her head. “They are gone and we should be away whilst we know where they are.”
She didn’t want to move. She wanted to stay where she was, secure in his arms until this nightmare ended.
She could have remained in Williamsburg, safe with her uncle.
Safe and not knowing if her brother were alive or dead. Or if Connor were alive or dead. Would it have mattered to her then?
He rose, pulling her to her feet as if she weighed nothing. She looked up into his eyes, which were lost in the shadows created by the moonlight. His hand touched her cheek, his thumb moved under her eye and she realized there were tears. Then his hand cupped her chin and tilted her face up.
He was going to kiss her. The fear, the worry, the discomfort, all flew from her mind as her stomach churned with anticipation. The pad of his thumb moved across her lips, and they parted, ready…waiting…

Check out what reviewers have to say.

The strong personalities of the characters and the emotionally stirring plot, blended with heart stopping action, makes RISING WIND an enthralling story that held this reader spellbound until the very end.

Romance junkies 5 stars

For anyone, like me, who is a historical fiction nut, this book offers it all. From the early pages where Duncan’s father and mother meet untimely deaths, to his journey to the New World on a slave ship, this book maintains its historical integrity. Through the author’s representations of locations, events, and people – such as the Boston Tea Party, Daniel Boone and the Shawnee Indians – to the perfect accent that flows from the character’s mouths – the book is perfect. The Virgin Widow, Caroline Murray, is a great character, because although she is part of the elite, she is as trapped as Connor – serving her family’s goals and not her own. She’s funny, clumsy, and energetic, and, unlike a lot of romance novels, you actually believe that when they finally say they love each other – they really, really mean it.

Once Upon A Romance

RISING WIND is page after page of adventure and horrific encounters lived and relived. However, mixed with all the bad is a love destined to be discovered. And for the love of a woman, Connor is willing to die so Carrie can live. I couldn't put this book down once I started it. I highly recommend RISING WIND be added to your must-read list.
Fresh Fiction
The latest Wind Colonial romance is the best historical in the series as the audience will feel the danger while trekking the wilderness with the lead couple. The story line is action-packed and Carrie and Connor are wonderful heroes
Harriet Klausner
Rising Wind is my favorite of all the Wind books. The story is about Connor Duncan, the first Duncan to come to the colonies as a bond servant. It also features the Battle of Point Pleasant, a historically significant battle before the Revolutionary War. I grew up on the battlefield so this story was especially near and dear to my heart. I hope you enjoy Rising Wind.

Cindy

I win!

Just back from RWA where I was totally surprised to win the Prism for best Futuristic of 2006 for SHOOTING STAR! Woohoo! I was totally blown away when they announced my name since I was up against really stiff competition Susan Grant and Liz Maverick. So now I'm an award winning author and I'm reaaly excited about the release of Star Shadows coming in November.

I love seeing where I'd fit in. And I still love Lord Of The Rings.

The great kitten rescue

A few weeks back my neighbor called me over as I was out walking Cody. "Hey Cindy, I got some kittens for you," he said.

"I don't want any kittens. I'm going on vacation," I replied.

"But there are kittens under the dumpster." He pointed to the house under construction and sure enough, under the dumpster was an orange kitten. I put Cody up and went back to investigate with a can of cat food. Other neighbors saw us out and soon there were eight of us trying to wrangle two stray kittens from underneath the dumpster. One couple immediately named them Peaches and Patches and I was happy and relieved that the kittens had a home.

Until this past Sunday. 10 days after the kitten rescue. My neighbor Rita stops by. "Hey Cindy, there's another kitten over there.

Dang it! I immediately go and call "here kitty kitty and a tiny bag of bones sticks her nose out. I'm stuck. I don't want a kitten. I've got a dog and a cat. And this kitten was needy. But I also can't leave her so the next morning I take her to the vet. She's got parasites and she only weighs a pound and a half. I ask everyone there if they want her. Nope. I don't mind paying the vet bill but I don't want a kitten.

I bring her home and confine her to an upstairs bathroom because Cody is about to die.

Cody: Hey there's a kitten up there, did you know there's a kitten up there, hey, I want to see the kitten, let me see the kitten, I just want to lick it, can I see the kitten?

ME: No Cody. The kitten is fine. Let's leave her alone for a while. Translate that to let's let her figure out what a litter box is.

By Monday night I'm hooked. Tuesday I bought a pink sparkley collar. Today my skin looks like a pin cushion...sharp claws...she thinks I'm a giant toy. Her name is Maddie and I guess I'm hooked.

unless someone wants a kitten....

Meez

Linnea Sinclair showed me this great new site that lets you build characters. This is Abbey and Jayne from Twist. I've had a blast playing with it instead of writing. I'll be introducing you to more of my characters later on

You can find your meez here

Twist

I'm excited to be part of a new line called Shomi. It's urban fantasy with animie covers. The first book, Wired, by my friend Liz Maverick will be out in August, followed up by Marianne Mancusi's Moongazer and Eve Kenin's Driven. My story, Twist will be out in Feb 08.

Here's the blurb

There’s always a moment….

Abbey Shore never intended to be the savior of the world; it was just something that happened. She’d expected her importance no more than her father’s tragic death—or the fact that she was left poor and “flipping” houses in the Chicago suburbs to finish college. And there was no way that she could have predicted the house on which she was currently working had an odder occupant than the usual resident ghosts: a swirling nether vortex that would not only reunite her with the handsome Doctor Shane X from the Sacred Heart’s ER, and the eerie, leather-clad beauty who’d seemed to shadow his every move, but send her one hundred years into the future, into a dying land filled with roving bands of humans fighting to survive, and the “ticks” against whom they fight. Oh yes, Abbey’s life has had a…

TWIST

Maybe she can twist things back.

and here's what USA Today Best Selling Author Alyssa Day has to say "A heroine with a black belt in danger! TWIST rockets its way through enough twists and turns to satisfy any fan of action-adventure romance. Romantic thrills, sexy chills, and an fascinating new take on the paranormal genre!"
- Alyssa Day, USA Today Bestselling Author

Pirates 3

I have to gush about this movie because we saw it last night and unfortunately it's filled my brain so much that I can't think about anything else. And why the picture of Orlando and not Johnny Depp? Hey I wrote the book Obsessing Orlando under the name Kassy Tayler. That should pretty much explain it all.

Great special effects. Great battle scenes! Depp was hilarious. Rush thoroughly enjoyed his turn as Barbossa. Keira got to be a kick ass heroine. And Orloando got to be heroic and romantic and give us more of those great movie kiss scenes.

The ending kind of made me sad. But it left the potential for more movies. But I have to say my favorite scene (and this does not give away any plot points) was where the ship was sailing on a sea of stars. It was one of the most visually stunning things I've ever seen. Almost as if they were in deep space just drifting along. So see it even relates!

Mother's Day

I hope all the mom's out there had a good day. My two handsome sons came to visit bearing gifts. We cooked steaks on the grill and just laid around and watched movies and enjoyed the day. It was nice just having them around without the usual madness of our busy lives.

Recommended Read

I just read a book called The Silver Spoon for a quote. It's kind of a Starman, V type story with a really sweet hero name Caelen and a feisty heroine named Zara. I loved it.

Here's my quote. "A fantastic story that captures you from page one. I loved it." Colby Hodge

You can get it here at echelon press http://www.echelonpress.com/

Aliens Among Us
Zara Mitchell's nightmares began when the Observers landed. These strangely vivid visions still haunt her nightly and leave her terrified of the silver-eyed visitors and their true intentions. When one of the eerily beautiful beings shows up at her diner with the local sheriff, her world changes forever. The Observer insists that she come with him. He claims her life is in danger. But can he be trusted?

A Prophecy Fulfilled
After two years, Caelan's search is finally over. He's found her, the human female from the prophecy. She is the one thing he recognizes from his life before Earth. His only link to the truth. Now all he has to do is keep her alive long enough to find the clues to a past he can't remember and a future she fears.

Even if you're not into scifi romance, I still recommend it as just a great read.

Spidy 3

We saw Spiderman 3 Sat evening. I'm not really sure if I liked it or not. The story was great, the action was awesome. Maybe it's just Tobey. OR it could have been all the small children who were really two young to understand the story and got bored after the first half hour. I guess I'll reserve judgement until I see it again. I did think Topher was great and was sad about Harry, even though he got redeemed.

so what do you think? Let me know.

Which Bennet Sister are you

I scored as Elizabth. Which sister are you?

You scored as Elizabeth. Elizabeth Bennet is intellegent witty. She sometimes judges people before she knows them but changes her opinion when she knows she was wrong about someone. She is considered somewhat of a tomboy but usually doesn't care what people think. She may have a hard shell but is extremely loving to those she cares for. Elizabeth 91% Miss Jane Bennet 84% Kitty Bennet 75% Lydia Bennet 72% Mary Bennet 69% Pride and Prejudice, which Bennet sister are you? created with QuizFarm.com

Recomended Reads

One great thing about RT is picking up books by my favorite authors. I have two to recommend this week. Oh yeah, I'm hoping to make this a regular thing.

The first is Wild Thing. So far I've only read Wild Hearts Of Atlantis by Alyssa Day but that in itself is totally worth the price.

The next is Brace To Bite by my new friend and totally missing since birth Twin Sister Serena Robar. What is not to love about a teenage vampire who is missing her fangs and has to use headgear to feed. It's really adorable and laugh out loud funny.


So run, don't walk to your favorite book store and pick these up. You won't regret it.

RT 2007

Just got back from a fun and exhausting RT aka the Romantic times convention in Houston. Below is Serena Robar, Marianne Mancusi and Liz Maverick at the Fairy Ball
Clowing around with cover guys Chris Winters and Travis Greiman. I can't help it. It just happens.

Me and fellow signing buddy Alyssa Day

Here's me and Susan Grant, who made Futuristic Action Romance Cool


It was the best RT ever, I had a blast, met lots of booksellers and made new friends. Can't wait until next year!

Romantic Times Conference

I'm off to the Romantic Times conference in Houston TX. I can't wait to catch up with all my writer friends, Alesia Holliday, Marianne Mancusi, Barb Ferrer, Liz Maverick and Jade Lee. I'll also get to hang out with some wonderful people that work for my publisher.

I'm doing a historical research panel, a futuristic writing panel, a YA panel. I'm co sponsering the Intergalactic Bar and Grill with some awesome futuristic writers, Linnea, Sincair, Susan Grant, Rowenna Cherry, Deidre Knight to name a few. Also participating in a books sellers bash and a Dorchester Pubilshing game segment.

There are workshops during the day and awesome parties at night. I've even got fairy wings for the Fairy Ball. And hopefully my roomie, Julie Gupton will have a great time and take another step towards publication.

I'll post pictures when I get back!

Pod Cast Fun

I participated with authors Linnea Sinclair, Susan Kearny and Rowenna Cherry in a bit of role playing on April 1. We celebrated the anniversary of the War Of The Worlds broadcast by planning our own little invasion. Each of us portrayed characters from our books and decided to invade all the bookstores on planet earth.

Okay so it was silly. But it was also fun. Especially Rowenna as a ninety year old renegade empress named Helsipeta who hides out in Vegas.

You can listen to it here! And someday I need to figure out how to do this link thing.

4/1

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Catch up

Once again I find myself playing catch up on my blog. But I have a good excuse. Since the first of the year I've had two deadlines and hopefully things will let up a bit now since my next deadline isn't until Sept 1.

So here's the news. Rising Wind will be out in August. Yay! Starshadows just went into the mail today and will be releases in Nov. Watch for news on the cover coming soon.

And I'm happy to announce that I've been asked to write more books! More yays! I will be writing a vampire time travel called Twist for the exciting new Shomi line at Dorchester and two historicals, One called Fallen about an English soldier named John Murray during the Revolutionary War and a medieval called Breath Of Heavan. One will be out in 08 and the other in 09.

I'm excited because tomorrow I'm going to Charleston to meet my fab writer friend Marianne Mancusi. Then later this month I'll be in Houston with all my friends at the fun and wonderful Romantic Times conference.

That's all for now. I promise to be more consistent.

yeah...right

Total Fan Girl

I have to rave about a book I just read by my dear friend Alyssa Day. It's the first in a hot new paranormal series about Atlantis. It has warriors from Atlantis, Vampires, Shapeshifters, feisty heroines and a great, great story. I couldn't put it down. So I'm encouraging everyone to get this book now. You won't regret it! The next installment comes out in an anthology called Wild Things this May, then the second book, Atlantis Awakening will be released in November. And Hey, I've got a November release too. Star Shadows. I'll post more on it soon.

odds and ends

Yes, I know I've been neglecting my blog. But its hard to come up with witty things every day. So today I'll just be random.

I came to the sudden realization last night while watching Heroes that I also have a hero that can't be killed because of rapid healing. So once again I will be acused of rip off. Since this book was started in Jan of 06 I was first with the idea. However since it won't be out until this fall...sigh...

I wish I didn't watch the Black Donnolleys. Now I'm sucked into another world. I have to admit it surprised me. So I have a full Monday nights even with the DVR. Wednesdays are full too.

I wish the press would let Anna Nicole rest in peace. Also do we have to be told everything that Brittany, Paris and Lindsey are up too?

I love beijo bags. They are my newest addiction.

I've been doing a lot of reading. Next on my list, Atlantis Rising by Alyssa Day.

I just finished up a new proposal for Colby Hodge. It's a paranormal time travel called Twist. Keep your fingers crossed that someone will buy it.

Thats all for now.

I think this pretty much says it all

I was a swan

I took this funny little test. Actually all it needed was my birthday. But I like what it says and its pretty much true so I'll go with a swan. Except I'm pretty much a klutz

You Were a Swan

You are a spiritual soul who sees into the future. You are also good at interpreting dreams - those of yourself and others.

What Animal Were You In a Past Life?

The wait is ogre

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Yay! I love Shrek!

Celebrate Romance

If you are a big fan of Romance please consider going to Celebrate Romance in Kansas City this March 2-4. This is a great conference put on by a great group of ladies that give the readers time to interact with the writers of their favorite books. Some of the author attending are
Jules Bennett
Sandy Blair
Stephanie Burke
Rod Casteel
Linda Conrad
Lorraine Heath
Isabo Kelly
Janette Kenny
Amy Knupp
Jade Lee
Ann Macela
Donna MacMeans
Cathy Maxwell
Jewel McGuire
Terry McLaughlin
Jenna Petersen
Kay Sisk
Kay Stockham
Melody Thomas
Vicki Lewis Thompson
Lori Wilde

For information visit their web site at Celebrate Romance
http://www.crspring.com/

I'm sorry I can't go this year, but to Cybil, Karen and Leann I just want to say thank you for making this happen every year.

Rising Wind

A new year and a new book. Rising Wind will be released in August and I'm already excited about it.

Let me introduce you to Connor Duncan, the first Duncan to come to the colonies. The year is 1774 and the country is on the verge of Revolution. But first they have to fight the Indians on the western frontier of the Ohio River. And the dreaded and savage Shawnee have taken the love of Connor's life, Carrie Murray.

Last of the Duncans

Leaving behind the Highlands for the New World at the tender age of ten, Connor Duncan learned quickly that only the fit and the fortunate survive. He was both, becoming a scout and an expert marksman…a man to be reckoned with. He knew his way through the backwoods as well as any Shawnee, but he was far less comfortable in the drawing rooms of Williamsburg. What was a rough-hewn frontiersman like he to do with a sheltered beauty like the governor’s niece? But there seemed to be no way to avoid the “Virgin Widow,” especially when she insisted on accompanying him on a dangerous mission through the wilderness to Fort Savannah. Neither capture, nor torture, nor the violent birth pangs of a young nation could keep them apart or stop the founding of a brand new dynasty of Duncans.

I hope you are as excited about this story as I am.

Football junkie

In the past few years I've gotten hooked on the NFL. At first I just loved it because it was great background noise for my Sunday afternoon nap. But now I'm really getting into it. I loved watching the Carolina Panthers not win this year. I also followed the Patriots, the Giants and the Colts. Tom Brady is just plain hot and what's not to love about the Manning brothers?

Okay, so I admit it. It's not the NFL. It's the hot quarterbacks that get me. I won't even get into their tight pants. I just love seeing good looking guys getting physical on the field.

But I am following teams. College and Pro. Wake Forest had a dream season this year and could anyone besides those people in FL predict the blow-out last night in the BCS national championship?

And what about Tony Roma flubbing his dream seaon with a fumble. That hurt to even watch it.

So bring on the Superbowl. I am so there for every minute of it. Especially if the Colts or the Patriots make it!

I want snow

iPod All The Wrong Reasons Nikelback

It's raining here. And close to seventy degrees. And even though I feel bad for the people in Colo and out west I want snow.

I got boots for Christmas. And a heavy coat. I have mittens, hat and a scarf. I've got warm slippers, flannel pants and a Be Careful or you'll wind up in my novel sweatshirt. The hot chocolate is stocked! I'm ready for a snow day.

I've even got sleds for our steep driveway. Bring it on!

Snow Snow Snow!

Routines

iPod Don't Phunk With My Heart by Black Eyed Peas

I'm trying to get back into a routine. Work of course is the first priority. One think I realized is that I love to check my friends blogs every morning. But I'm bad about ignoring mine. So this is my first effort and trying to keep up with this everyday. Of course I might not have anything interesting to report but I'll try.

This morning I had every intention of going to the Y for a long needed workout. But I couldn't get my car out of the garage. Plus my living room was covered with sleeping college students. They all crashed at our house last night because we have a hot tub.

And as I picked my way across the bodies and threw wet towels into the hamper I realized that this is one of their last times of being so carefree. This group that has hung together since elementary school all graduate this year. They'll be getting jobs, moving away, getting married. I remember just four years ago when one girl hung onto my son and cried because they were all going to seperate colleges and she would miss him so much. Yet here they are, still together. A few have fallen out. but the core still stands strong. I hope ten years from now they remember the strength of their bond. Good friends are a blessing. And Old friends are a treasure.