What is Love?

Maybe you've seen this . . . but even if you have, it's worth a repeat.

A group of professional people posed this question to a group of 4 to 8 year-olds, 'What does love mean?'

The answers they got were broader and deeper than anyone could have
imagined.

'When my grandmother got arthritis, she couldn't bend over and paint her
toenails anymore. So my grandfather does it for her all the time, even when his hands got
arthritis too. That's love.' Rebecca- age 8

'When someone loves you, the way they say your name is different.
You just know that your name is safe in their mouth.' Billy - age 4

'Love is when a girl puts on perfume and a boy puts on shaving cologne and
they go out and smell each other.' Karl - age 5

'Love is when you go out to eat and give somebody most of your French fries
without making them give you any of theirs.' Chrissy - age 6

'Love is what makes you smile when you're tired.' Terri - age 4

'Love is when my mommy makes coffee for my daddy and she takes a sip before
giving it to him, to make sure the taste is OK.' Danny - age 7

'Love is when you kiss all the time. Then when you get tired of kissing,
you still want to be together and you talk more. My Mommy and Daddy are like that. They look gross when they kiss' Emily - age 8

'Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening
presents and listen.' Bobby - age 7

If you want to learn to love better, you should start with a friend who you
hate,' Nikka - age 6

'Love is when you tell a guy you like his shirt, then he wears it
everyday.' Noelle - age 7

'Love is like a little old woman and a little old man who are still friends
even after they know each other so well. Tommy - age 6

'During my piano recital, I was on a stage and I was scared. I looked at
all the people watching me and saw my daddy waving and smiling.
He was the only one doing that. I wasn't scared anymore.' Cindy - age 8

'My mommy loves me more than anybody .
You don't see anyone else kissing me to sleep at night.' Clare - age 6

'Love is when Mommy gives Daddy the best piece of chicken.' Elaine-age 5

'Love is when Mommy sees Daddy smelly and sweaty and still says he is
handsomer than Brad Pitt.' Chris - age 7

'Love is when your puppy licks your face even after you left him alone all
day.' Mary Ann - age 4

'I know my older sister loves me because she gives me all her old clothes
and has to go out and buy new ones.' Lauren - age 4

'When you love somebody, your eyelashes go up and down and little stars
come out of you.' Karen - age 7

'You really shouldn't say 'I love you' unless you mean it. But if you mean
it, you should say it a lot. People forget.' Jessica - age 8

And the final one -- Author and lecturer Leo Buscaglia once talked about a
contest he was asked to judge. The purpose of the contest was to find the most caring child.

The winner was a four year old child whose next door neighbor was an
elderly gentleman who had recently lost his wife. Upon seeing the man cry, the little boy went into the old gentleman's yard, climbed onto his lap, and just sat there.
When his Mother asked what he had said to the neighbor, the little boy
said, 'Nothing, I just helped him cry.'

Here's praying for a little more love in your day,

~~Angie

My friend Lyn's new book: Blessed Assurance

My pal Lyn Cote has a new book out--and I'm really intrigued by the "department store" concept that provides the basis of the books. If I had a genuine department store in my area, I probably wouldn't get any work done!

• Publisher: Avon Inspire $9.95
• ISBN-10: 0061349941
• ISBN-13: 978-0061349942
• Link to purchase http://booksbylyncote.com/LC1/?page_id=4

Review By Harriet Klausner –

"Whispers of Love". Several years have past since the Civil War made
Jessie Wagstaff a single mother. She runs a Chicago boarding house as
she raises her young son Linc. A new guest Lee Smith makes her feel
uneasy as he seems too interested in her late husband's family and
besides she feels attracted to him. However, when the Great Chicago
Fire of 1871 threatens mother and daughter, Lee risks his life to
keep them safe.

"Lost in His Love". In 1906 San Francisco social activist Linc
Wagstaff demands the city outlaw child labor. To make his case
stronger he investigates the Dickensian exploitation. During his
inquiries he meets heiress Cecilia Jackson. As they fall in love, he
holds her accountable for practices her trustees are doing to
increase her wealth. Before they can confront one another, an
earthquake devastates the city leaving everyone struggling to
survive.

"Echoes of Mercy". Meg Wagstaff has returned to the States after
spending time as a volunteer in France during the war. Her parents,
Linc and Cecilia are elated she came back safe, but Meg learns her
childhood friend Delman Dubois has been accused of murdering Mitch
Kennedy by the New Orleans police. Meg refuses to believe Del would
kill anyone so she travels to the city to prove her Negro friend is
innocent. As Del faces racism that will gladly lynch him, Meg feels
like a traitor as she is attracted to her opponent New Orleans Parish
Attorney Gabriel St. Clair.

The omnibus collection of the three superb Wagstaff BLESSED ASSURANCE
inspirational historical tales will elate fans of the genre as each
era comes alive due to the strong lead couple and a deep support
cast. "

Also drop by www.shoutlife.com/LynCote and read Lyn's blog about
Chicago 1871. The latest Blog discusses a Chicago institution, the
Marshall Field's Department Store, which after over a century of
doing business in Chicago was bought out by Macy's in the past few
years.
• Chicago Blog #10

• "Give the Lady What She Wants"-- Marshall Field
• If you grew up near Chicago as I did, the name of the famous
Chicago Department Store, "Marshall Field's," possessed an allure of
fine shopping, elegance and class. But I never realized until I was
doing my research for BLESSED ASSURANCE that the department store
concept was a 19th century social movement. No! I'm not kidding! In
the emerging more urban culture, men had saloons to gather in daily
but what social institution did "the ladies" have to go to?
• Well, Marshall Field decided it should be his store! And he
designed a place where every woman—by just walking through the door—
became a "lady." With a tea room to meet her friends for lunch or
just a cup of tea and conversation. A place where a liveried boy
opened the door for her and a store which boasted marble floors and
Greek columns and sparkling display counters.
• Needless to say, Marshall Field's was a success. His guiding
principles were: "best quality, attractively presented, customers
received with courteous and considerate treatment. Nothing petty or
little."
• Next Tuesday, drop by for more about what the department
store experience was like for the lady of 1871.
www.shoutlife.com/LynCote
• Link to purchase http://booksbylyncote.com/LC1/?page_id=4

~~Angie

Simple IQ Test

http://simple-iq.com/

I got a 130 on this one, even though 1) it had lots of number questions and I don't DO numbers and 2) twice I clicked the mouse so emphatically that the program skipped a question. (Eeeek!)

You're not supposed to take it twice, so you have to stick with your first answer. How'd you do? (Don't worry--no one takes these things seriously. Or at least you shouldn't.)

P.S. Happy birthday to my dear hubby! I feel very "smart" indeed for marrying him. :-)

~~Angie

Talking Dogs and Cats

http://www.flixxy.com/talking-cats-and-dogs.htm

This video made me laugh out loud. Listen carefully and you will hear that these pets are trying to copy what their owners say. It's hilarious!

~~Angie

The chocolate babka unveiled

Because curiosity killed the cat--and me: here's the recipe for a chocolate babka. Happy baking, everyone!

Chocolate Babka
From All Recipes.com

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter
1 1/4 cups white sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 eggs
1 cup sour cream
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 cup chopped pecans
1/4 cup white sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Butter a 10 inch tube pan. Sift together the flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and salt; set aside.

In a medium bowl, beat the butter and 1 1/4 cup sugar with an electric mixer on high speed until light and fluffy. Change the mixer speed to medium, and beat in the vanilla. Beat in the eggs, one at a time. With the mixer on low speed, alternately beat the flour mixture and sour cream into the creamed mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Beat only until just blended.

For the topping: In a small bowl combine the chocolate, pecans, 1/4 cup sugar, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon to make a crumb mixture. Spread half of the batter in the bottom of the prepared pan. Sprinkle with half of the crumb mixture. Pour in the remaining batter, and sprinkle with the remaining crumb mixture; press the crumbs in lightly so they adhere to the batter. Quickly, but gently cut through the batter and crumbs in an up and down motion with a knife. Lightly rap the pan once against a hard surface, to settle the batter.

Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. Cover the top of the cake with aluminum foil. Continue baking until a skewer inserted halfway between the side of the pan and the tube comes out clean, about 20 minutes longer. Cool the cake in the pan on a wire rack for 30 minutes. Carefully loosen the cake from the sides of the pan. Invert cake onto rack, and cool completely.

If you make this, let me know how it turns out! My hubby has a birthday this weekend--I wonder if he'd like a chocolate babka birthday cake?

~~Angie

Cakes

Prewritten on September 30.

I am sitting here in the Edmonton airport, thinking about cakes. This is because I began to think about cakes after reading Susan Plett's blog on Friday (see "Accidental Poet" in my blogroll), but I had to stop thinking about cakes and suddenly switch to thinking about Getting to Edmonton.

I ought to be thinking about THE FACE, which I have to hand in tomorrow, but the airport is not the place to descend to the Deeper Level I need to think about THE FACE. So I'm back to thinking about cakes.

10 Good things about cakes

1. I had one for breakfast at a Tim Horton's. You can't go to Canada without eating at Tim's, but you don't have to eat cake. I ate it because I saw a yummy looking carrot cake in the display case. It would have been better if it had been warmed.
2. Cakes are delicious.
3. Cakes are hospitable. No matter how many people come for dinner, you can always stretch a cake so there's enough for everyone.
4. Cakes are creative. You can bake them in almost any shape, and decorate them with almost anything--it doesn't even have to be edible. You can also make cupcakes, which are extremely portable--even tossable.
5. People only care what a cake looks like until you begin to eat it. Once the cake is sliced, you can take off the plastic football guys, totally ruin the design, or crumble it all over someone's plate. No one cares.
6. Cakes are festive. What's a party without a cake?
7. Cakes are extraverted. You see a cake, you want to invite people in to share it.
8. Cakes are kid-friendly. They can help with the mixing, the icing, or even the picking-out at Sam's.
9. Cakes have calories as well as sugar, flour, milk and eggs. And if you add vegetables, as in a carrot cake, you can eat the entire food pyramid in one dessert.
10. Cakes keep for days. If you have a cake on hand, you're always ready for company.

Not so Good Things About Cakes
1. They're big. If you're on a diet, cakes stick around forever and whisper your name.
2. They're calorie-dense. There just aren't enough vegetables in a cake to negate this fact.
3. Cakes are king of the holidays. I, for one, would love to celebrate my birthday with a pie.
4. Cakes are crumbly and require cleanup, especially if kids are involved.
5. Cakes are extraverted. This is a sometimes problem for introverts.
6. Cakes are party-centered. Therefore there is nothing sadder than someone sitting alone in a kitchen and eating cake.

7. There's a funny Seinfeld episode about a chocolate bobka. (sp?) The episode is good, the bad thing is that I've never had a chocolate bobka. Or a plain bobka. In fact, I don't know that I've ever bobkaed at all.

8. My mind contains a memory of some man talking about cake--except he pronounces it "keck." The line is something like, "You want keck?" The bad thing is that I can't remember who says it or in what context. It's just a loose, floating memory that won't be anchored until I hear it again.
9. Some people can create beautiful cakes like the one in the photograph. I can't.

And there you have it. My feelings about cake. Would you like to add your feelings to either list?

~~Angie

If only I'd had this earlier in life . . .

My hubby and I went out tonight to see TWELVE ANGRY MEN, starring Richard Thomas, aka "John Boy Walton." A powerful play and well done. Plus, it was nice to get out of the house!

http://www.howtocleanstuff.net/

Need to do your fall cleaning? Check out the above web page, and your cleaning quandries are over!

~~Angie

Linda Hall's SHADOWS IN THE MIRROR

I wanted you all to know about my friend Linda's new book:


Shadows in the Mirror
An October release from Steeple Hill/Love Inspired Suspense
ISBN-10: 0373442610
ISBN-13: 978-0373442614

About the book: SHADOWS IN THE MIRROR

''Never go back to Burlington!" Those were the dying words of the secretive aunt who'd raised orphaned Marylee Simson. Yet to discover who she was, Marylee had to go back, sure the Lord would look out for her. But learning anything about her past was proving impossible. Why were there no records of the accident that claimed her parents' lives? No records of her parents, period? And who was trying to stop her from finding out? Someone whose threats were escalating. Someone close to her, such as Evan Baxter, the handsome photographer she'd entrusted with the one clue she had.

Shadows in the Mirror is the first in a three-book romantics suspense trilogy where these shadows of the past must be accepted, acknowledged and forgiven before one can move onto life and love in the present.

What people are saying about Shadows in the Mirror:

Linda Hall has done an outstanding job. The tension and suspense will engage you from the first page. The fast pace and even flow of the story will keep you turning the pages. I recommend you read this novel to find out the dramatic ending.
Romance Reviews Today

In Shadows in the Mirror, Hall has done an excellent job or marrying her skills in character development and suspenseful plots with a strong romance element…. if you love Romantic Suspense, with the October release of Shadows in the Mirror you have cause to celebrate, as another strong Romantic Suspense author has been added to the must read list.
The Suspense Zone

About the author:

Linda Hall is the award winning author of fifteen novels and a number of short stories. She is the author of the bestselling Margaret’s Peace and the critically acclaimed Sadie’s Song. She has received The Word Guild award five times for best Christian mystery in Canada, has been short listed twice for a Christy (Sadie’s Song and Steal Away) and once for a Daphne (Steal Away). When she’s not writing, she enjoys reading, having coffee with friends and listening to good music. She and her husband also enjoy sailing the New Brunswick and Maine coasts. She invites readers to her website: http://writerhall.com

Purchasing information: http://www.eharlequin.com/storeitem.html?iid=15822

Enjoy!

~Angie

www.whatwouldyouwrite.com

Found the following in my inbox this weekend . . . pretty cool! Why not visit the site and write a note of your own?

http://www.whatwouldyouwrite.com

~~Angie


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 8, 2007

IF YOU ONLY HAD A MINUTE, WHAT WOULD YOU WRITE?

HALLMARK CHANNEL SEARCHES FOR AUTHORS OF

‘THE NOTE’



Network Launches Internet Campaign to Bring Inspirational
Words to Millions and Possibly Aid in Renewed Connections

“The Note,” a Hallmark Channel Original Movie, Premieres
Saturday, December 8 (9/8c) on the Network

If you were asked to write a few heartfelt words to someone but only had a minute to do so, what would you say? Who would you reach out to? Would you express love, appreciation, regret? This is one of the central themes of the Hallmark Channel Original Movie “The Note.” To exhibit the power a few words can have on the lives of others, Hallmark Channel is launching www.WhatWouldYouWrite.com on Monday, October 22 as an outlet for viewers to submit their own notes. The site’s first featured notes will be from the film’s stars, including Genie Francis (“General Hospital”) and Ted McGinley (“Hope & Faith”), and producer Joel Rice.

In addition to serving as a forum for these inspirational words, Hallmark Channel is aiming to use the site as a catalyst for real-life reconciliations. If a parent wishes to speak to an estranged child, a pro athlete wants to thank his high school coach or if someone needs to express their feeling to ‘the one that got away,’ Hallmark Channel will do its best to put their words in front of millions, hopeful that it will result in heartfelt reunions.

“As an actor, you ask yourself what you hope an audience will take away from your role and your film,” Francis says. “Of course, ‘The Note’ is meant to entertain. But during the production of the movie, Ted (McGinley) and I have hoped that the WHAT WOULD YOU WRITE campaign might also have the power to reconcile people and differences, regardless of the rifts that may exist, or how long any bitterness has persisted. It would be amazing to see an hour of “Oprah” dedicated to the goal of “The Note,” a true example of the healing power of love and forgiveness on display during the holiday season.”

In “The Note,” Francis stars as Peyton MacGruder, a struggling newspaper columnist who suddenly finds herself in possession of a scrap of paper containing a hastily written but heartfelt message written by one of the passengers of an airliner that was about to crash to his
child. Inspired by the power of the words, Peyton pledges to discover the note’s intended recipient and deliver it by Christmas. Taking her readers along for the journey while trying to stay one step ahead of a TV tabloid reporter, Peyton sets out across the country in her search, and unexpectedly confronts her own personal demons in the process.

The film is of particular importance to Rice, who turned to film production after several years as a licensed social worker. Although he appreciated the chance his work gave him to help people heal and grow, he regretted only being able to assist a limited number of people. He has since made it his life’s work to bring uplifting and inspiring films to as many people as possible, and has produced more than 20 made-for-television films. “The Note” proudly carries on that tradition.

“The Note,” a Hallmark Channel Original Movie premiering Saturday, December 8 (9/8c), stars “General Hospital” legend Genie Francis and Ted McGinley, best known for his work on “MarriedWith Children” and “Hope & Faith.” The film is a co-production of Hallmark Channel and Lightworks Pictures in association with WildRice Productions. Joel S. Rice (“Shredderman Rules”) and William Spencer Riley are executive producers. Maura Dunbar is the executive in charge of production for Lightworks Pictures. Doug Barr (“To Be Fat Like Me”) is the director. Paul W. Cooper wrote the screenplay based on the novel by Angela Hunt.

We interrupt this scheduled BOM to bring you . . .

FOREVER CHRISTMAS
By Christine Lynxwiler

After two broken engagements, so-called runaway bride Kristianna Harrington is content to run her shop, Forever Christmas, in her little hometown of Jingle Bells, Arkansas, and forget about romance. She reluctantly agrees to be the maid of honor at her best friend's wedding, but making it down the aisle becomes the least of her worries when a handsome newcomer threatens her precious town. Kristianna vows to stop the striking lawyer hired to change the town name and turns to her childhood friends for help. But Ami is busy with wedding plans, and Garrett seems more interested in bowling than politics. Will Kristianna get the help she needs before both her town and her Christmas spirit are extinguished?

* * * * *
The perfect gift for the reader on your Christmas list or something to slip into your own stocking, Forever Christmas is sure to please readers who are looking for a holiday treat!

What people are saying about Forever Christmas:

“. . .a delightful romance with a few twists I didn't see coming. A romantic tale, it's perfect for Christmas gift-giving. It's well written and the plot makes it a fun read. It held my interest from beginning to end. . .A great read with a warm and satisfying end.” ~ Reviewed by Ane Mulligan for Novel Reviews

“. . .a wonderful book for those who enjoy holiday sentiments, a touch of mystery and a delightful romantic story. Once you visit Jingle Bells, Arkansas through the pages of this book you will see Christmas in a different light. Kristianna’s desire for God's will for her life reigns true and love comes in the most unexpected places. Come dashing through the snow and be warmed with the love of Forever Christmas.” ~ Reviewed by Lori Plach for Reader Views

About the Author:
Award-winning novelist Christine Lynxwiler lives with her husband and daughters in a small town nestled in the north Arkansas Ozarks. Her other books include Promise Me Always and Arkansas.

When writing Forever Christmas, Christine used her own love for both the hometown of her childhood and her current hometown as a pattern for Kristianna’s passion for Jingle Bells. However, regardless of local rumors, the quirky townspeople are strictly figments of her imagination.

When she’s not working on her next deadline, you might find Christine kayaking on the nearby river with her family, poking around auctions and estate sales with friends, or curled up alone in a quiet corner with a great book. Please visit her at www.christinelynxwiler.com and sign the guestbook to let her know you stopped by!

Click HERE to buy Forever Christmas now!

What's Going On . . . Inside You

Amazing. Awe-inspiring. What God has wrought . . . takes my breath away. Take a peek at this film of what's going on inside your body:

http://www.flixxy.com/biology-nano-visualization-cell-life.htm

~~Angie

Crash Your Car

Okay, this was a little unsettling. But interesting. And if you're in the market for another car, maybe it'd be worth checking out:

http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/cars/safety-recalls/carcrashtest/crashtestvideo.htm

What a wonderful time we all had at the InScribe Conference in Canada. I've never met a more lovely group of people or experienced a sweeter group spirit. I DID arrive on Friday night, though later than I planned, and I asked for a few minutes to freshen up before I spoke. This was granted, so I ran to my room to change out of my wrinkled clothes and to brush my teeth. My hostess, Susan, had said that I'd be the last speaker of the day, and so I'd joked that I could simply finish and then send everyone off to bed.

So I put on a dress . . . and then the Lord whispered a suggestion in my ear. Crazy, though. But certainly more comfortable. So I changed out of my dress and put on my pajamas . . . and went down to speak.

They were very kind when I walked in--no one wondered why the main speaker was wearing this very gaudy, fuzzy purple outfit . . . but when I confessed that I was speaking in my pajamas, they all roared.

And after my little talk, I sent everyone--including myself--to bed with a heartfelt "nighty-night." :-)

One girl laughed at breakfast this morning. "I've never heard anyone speak in their pajamas," she said, "but I was expecting the unexpected."

Indeed.

~~Angie

A test for you Literary Lions

If this is Friday, I'm flying away again . . . across the continent, as a matter of fact. I'm going to be with pal Susan Plett and other Canadian writers in Edmundton, Alberta, Canada, which is far, far away and bound to be chilly.

Another pal, Kay Day (don't you love her name?) sent me this link. I thought I aced the test, then learned that my first attempt netted only nine out of 13--and I had even read two of the books I missed! Oh, well. I think I've been eating on plates with lead glaze.

We writers have (or should have!) a thing for first lines. They should be memorable. Can you recognize the first lines in this online quiz?

http://encarta.msn.com/encnet/departments/education_1/?page=quiz61&Quizid=61

Pop back in and let me know how you did!

~~Angie

URGENT UPDATE FOR INSCRIBE CONFERENCE PEOPLE

My early morning flight was cancelled. I'm frantically typing this because I've been changed all around--am now arriving on an AC flight at 6:32 p.m. MIght come in running, but, Lord willing, I'll come in. Susan, I hope you got my email with more details.

A comedy of oopsies this morning. Almost forgot my coat! Then, apparently, the pilot forgot to show up for work. :-) (Just kidding). fortunately, I knew enough to phone in my flight change rather than waiting in the mile-long line. Barely made the other flight and may not have luggage when I arrive, but I hope to be there!

(And the WIP is up to 104,000 words!)

Oops, they're calling me to board. Off!

Angie

Not for me, thanks.

Why does this man look unhappy? I'll tell you in a minute--and yes, that's a real photo of a real man in Venezuela.

Seems that this man was driving down the highway and became involved in an accident. He was knocked out cold. When he woke up, the medical examiner was conducting his autopsy!

Ay, carumba! When the ME noticed that the man was bleeding, they stitched him up and sent him back to the hospital, quickly removing him from the morgue.

Now . . . my Jennifer Graham has had quite a few adventures in her funeral home, but I think I'll pass this potential plot problem by. Eeek!~

For more information, you may check out the link here:

http://www.reuters.com/article/oddlyEnoughNews/idUSN149975820070917

I tell you, you can't make this stuff up. :-)

~Angie

P.S. News flash! If you didn't see Deanna Favre's interview with Greta on TV last night, you can see it here: http://gretawire.foxnews.com. Look for the link!

Pastor's Wives

My friend Liz Higgs took this lovely picture of a pale pumpkin. Isn't it beautiful? Love those colors!

The WIP is still coming along. Up to 99,000 words and still coming. (I tend to underwrite, adding layers as I go. I understand that some people overwrite and have to cut, but that's never been my problem.)

On to today's topic:
I've been married to a man in ministry for 27 years. (LOL! My computer keyboard has developed this twitch where it skips letters. I typed "married" but it came out "I've been marred . . .")

Anyway--Freudian slip aside--hubby and I have learned how to cope with the pressures of ministry. And I'll be honest--my hubby is youth pastor, so I know I don't have as much pressure as some women who are seen as "Mrs. Pastor." I did think that first year would be the death of us, but after that period of adjustment, we settle into the groove.

I'm writing, though, about an article I pulled from TIME many months ago. It's a piece about pastor's wives and how they are finding fellowship through the Internet. I am all over this, because as a solitary writer, I've been so blessed to have found fellowship with writers over the web. I may not have people knocking on my door for coffee in the middle of a work day, but I have them dinging my inbox for quick hellos. And you know what? I miss them when they're not there.

But I digress. If you're a pastor's wife, check out www.lllministries.org (the three Ls stand for Love, Live, and Living.

For a GREAT blog by the author of the TIME article, go here: http://time-blog.com/work_in_progress/2007/03/think_your_job_is_tough_try_be.html

She also includes a list of links to Internet groups and support for pastors' wives.

Pastors' wives say their number one problem is loneliness. No reason for that, none at all, not anymore. Please make sure your pastor's wife has access to the support she needs.

~~Angie

Last Lecture

Last week I read an article in the Wall Street Journal that really impressed me. It must have impressed a lot of other people, too, because the very next morning I saw the subject of the article on Good Morning America.

The article was about Randy Pausch, a computer science professor at Carnegie Mellon University. Pausch, father of three children ages five, two, and one, was invited to give a lecture in the "Last Lecture Series"--in which top professors are asked to think deeply about what matters to them and to give hypothetical final talks. IOW, if you had only one more opportunity to speak to the world, what would you say?

In Pausch's case, however, there's a twist--the forty-six year old father has pancreatic cancer and only a few more months to life. So his "Last Lecture" might well be his last.

He began by showing his CT scans, revealing tumors on his liver. But then he talked about living. And while I don't know anything about his faith or lack of it (and, to be fair, I haven't had a chance to watch all two hours of his lecture, so he may have talked about his faith) his take on life was still refreshingly positive and optimistic. Even funny.

He said he'd had a deathbed conversion--he just bought a Macintosh.

He flashed rejection letters on the screen and said, "Brick walls are there for a reason--they let us prove how badly we want things."

He talked about requiring his students to create videogames without sex and violence. He talked about leaving his legacy, a computer program named Alice.

I'm not intending to diss Alice or Professor Pausch, but at this point I'm reminded of one of my favorite Nicole Nordeman songs, "Legacy." The chorus goes like this:

I want to leave a legacy,
How will they remember me,
Did I choose to love . . .
Did I point to You enough to make a mark on things,
I want to be an offering . . .
A child of mercy and grace who blessed your name unapologetically . . .
Leave that kind of legacy.

You can watch a video excerpt of Professor Pausch's lecture here: http://www.computerworld.com/blogs/node/6227 .

Or watch the entire two-hour lecture here: http://www.metafilter.com/64880/Randy-Pauschs-Last-Lecture

In short, Dr. Pausch's lecture was a sample of all that is good even best about human beings. But when I visited that last web site and looked at some of the comments, I found myself wondering how many of those commenters had considered that death is not the end--that it is merely the bridge between us and eternity. Between us and our encounter with our Creator God. Hmm.

What about you? If you were asked to give a "last lecture," what would you talk about?

~~Angie

Tamara Alexander's Latest Release

I had the most wonderful time yesterday afternoon--I drove over to Tampa and met with a group of book lovers at the First Christian Church to help them and their librarian, Sandra Jakeway, celebrate their library's sixtieth birthday!

What a great group of people! And I can't forget my new dearest friend Ros, who brought a book club from Lakeland. They had just finished reading "The Note," so I was able to tell them about the upcoming Hallmark movie.

But let me move to the topic of the day. See the cute redhead above? That's my friend Tammy Alexander, and she's as sweet as she looks.

Her bestselling three-book series (Rekindled, Revealed, and Remembered) features a different historical romance in each novel. In the late 1860s, Colorado Territory is a wild and untamed land. Nestled within its mountains and sustained by one of its major creeks, three couples find adventure and love on the frontier. Each person will be called upon to stand on nothing more than faith, risk what is most dear, and turn away from the past in order to follow God's plan for the future.

Links for Fountain Creek Chronicles:
http://www.amazon.com/Rekindled-Revealed-Remembered-Fountain-Chronicles/dp/0764283464

A quick chat with Tamera:

What makes you feel alive?
A fall day when the air is clean and the leaves so crisp and splashed with color that you just have to stop and try to take it all in, which you can’t, of course. And you realize there’s no “reason” why those leaves had to change those colors in order for the plant or tree to go dormant. God did it to show his glory, his artistry. How magnificent.

You would have a hard time in a Florida summer. Everything's green, green, green. How does something worm its way into your heart? Through tears, truth, humor or some other way?
Tears and humor. Used together, they’re a powerful tool!

Where would you most like to travel ----- moon, north pole, deep seas, deserted island, the holy land or back to a place from your childhood, somewhere else? – and why.
I would time travel, does that still fit? Back to the era in which I write and specifically to some points in European history. Especially those in France. And to biblical times, of course. ;)

Suggestion: carry deodorant, toilet paper, and soap when you're time-traveling. Better carry some penicillin, too. What is your favorite word?
Forgiven.

That's so sweet. :-) My favorite word is brouhaha. What word annoys you more than any other?
Can’t.

Super power you’d love to borrow for awhile?
Ability to read minds—as long as no one else could have that super power around me. ;)

Favorite chore?
Vacuuming. It’s a sickness, I know. But I love things neat.

So do I, but I train my men folk to vacuum. Grammatical pet peeve…sound off.
People who don’t like semi-colons. Semi-colons are wonderful; they serve a real purpose in our language and shouldn’t be ostracized from fiction. ;)

I could not agree more; semicolons deserve their day! Which compliment related to your writing has meant the most and why?
This one:
Your book (Rekindled) helped me to begin loving my husband again. Maybe to start loving him to begin with. I’m trying to get rid of the high expectations I’ve held for the past fifteen years because they’ve only led me to disappointment. We’re seeking counseling and are trying to rebuild our marriage. Your writings gave me the courage to take that step, and helped me to know that God could make that happen. Thank you.

If I never write another word or get another reader note about my books, I’ll die a happy woman. ;)

Thanks for dropping by, Tammy! Have a great week, everybody! ~~Angie

News Flash: From Variety

Hallmark writes original 'Note'

Holiday TV movie to star Genie Francis

By JOHN DEMPSEY

The Hallmark Channel has commissioned "The Note," a holiday-themed TV movie to star Genie Francis and Ted McGinley and premiere on Dec. 8.

Co-produced by Lightworks Pictures (a Faith & Values company) and WildRice Prods., telepic concerns a lonelyhearts columnist who stumbles on a note written to an unidentified child by a passenger who dies in a plane crash. The columnist's editor tells her to go all out to find the child before Christmas and write about her progress in the column.

Hallmark Channel, one of the most aggressive cable nets in greenlighting original movies, plans to do up to 30 in the next year. Hallmark and Lightworks will own "The Note," said Joel Rice, of WildRice, one of the exec producers. But in most instances, Hallmark will buy just the exclusive basic-cable window to its pictures, allowing producers to retain the ancillary rights.

Rice's co-exec producer is William Spencer Riley. Maura Dunbar is the exec in charge of production for Lightworks. The director is Doug Barr, and Paul W. Cooper has adapted the novel by Angela Hunt.

Read the full article at:
http://www.variety.com/article/VR1117972390.html


~~Angie

The miracle theater

. . . . interesting piece in my newspaper this week. Have you heard of the Miracle Theater in Pigeon Forge, TN? You can check it out at www.miracletheater.com . Anyway, the folks there, all Christians, spent $90,440 on a fill-page advertisement in USA Today that ran this past week proclaiming "enough is enough."

In accepting the Emmy for her Bravo reality show, "My Life on the D-List," comedienne Kathy Griffin said, "a lot of people come up here and thank Jesus for this award. I want you to know that no one had less to do with this award than Jesus."

In response, the ad from Miracle Theater said, "We at the Miracle Theater consider it an honor to stand for Jesus today. We may never win a national award. We may never be household names. We may never been seen in Hollywood. Although others may choose to use their national platform to slander our God, we are honored as professional entertainers to stand for Christ."

Now--I fully support Kathy Griffin's right to not believe in Jesus. That's what free will is all about. But I think someone ought to sit the dear woman down and tell her about common grace . . . about how all of us breathe air, share in goodness, and live on a planet provided for and sustained by God and his son, Jesus the Christ . . .

~~Angie

Bir*th Announ*cement

Had to spell it that way because if I don't, the comments box will be overtaken by people selling stationery online! And while I don't begrudge anyone the right to sell things online, I'd rather they didn't do in my comments box.

Ahem. Guess what arrived today? A box of my latest release, DON'T BET AGAINST ME, Deanna Favre's story of her diagnosis and treatment for breast cancer. I really enjoyed working with Deanna and Carol Traver, one of my Tyndale editor, on this book. It's a great story for anyone (especially for football fans, since Deanna's hubby is Brett Favre, the QB for the Green Bay Packers), but it's especially encouraging for anyone battling breast cancer. So--the book is out and all royalties to go Deanna's HOPE Foundation, which provides funds for women undergoing chemo.

Also be sure to check out Deanna's web site--lots of information there! http://www.deannafavre4hope.com.

Enjoy!

~~Angie

How I deducted my summer vacation

I'm not going to have much original blog material between now and October first, I don't think--too busy pushing toward the deadline for THE FACE. However, if I feel moved, I might share a scene or so.

We went to Spain and La Coruna when the hubby and I took our cruise last May. So of course, the port ended up in the book!

Enjoy.



Chapter Twenty-two
Renee


In the last two days I have been pushed, prodded, stepped on and frisked—twice. I have traveled aboard a jet, a shuttle bus, and a ship. I have been addressed in British English, American slang, and Castilian Spanish. I think I’ve been cursed at in French.

Now I am standing on a wharf in La Coruña, Spain, where I have just stepped off a ship filled with what I suspect are Navy SEALs. But they don’t wear uniforms and they don’t talk much—none of them have addressed me with anything more personal than “Yes, ma’am” and “no, ma’am.”

I have my passport out and ready, but no one is asking to see it and there’s no sign of an immigration office at this port. Not much of anything, really, but shipping containers and a few burly men who are helping secure the ship.

I slide my passport back into my purse and grip the handle of my rolling suitcase as if I’m confident of my next step. I haven’t a clue about what’s supposed to happen next. I have no papers to validate my security clearance, and nothing but my passport and Virginia driver’s license to prove my citizenship and identity. I could be mugged and tossed into the sea by one of these longshoremen, and no one would miss me for months, if ever.

All I know is my contact is supposed to meet me here and deliver me to Sarah.

A small black sedan whizzes down the dock and completes a u-turn at the end of the pier. A moment later it pulls up and the automatic window lowers. A man peers out at me from beneath the wide brim of a black hat. “Señora Carey?”

“Sí. Yo estoy—” Why didn’t I brush up on my Spanish before leaving? Because the ticket I was instructed to purchase took me to London’s Gatwick airport. I had no idea I’d be visiting Spain.

“Welcome to La Coruña,” the man says, switching to English. He steps out of the car, and I am amazed to see that he is wearing the garb of a priest—an old fashioned priest, at least by American standards. The black cassock, wide hat, and white collar render me temporarily speechless.

The CIA sent a clergyman to pick me up?

My contact bends to give me a hand with my luggage. “Only one suitcase?”

“Yes—that’s right.”

“You travel light—a real talent. You must teach me that trick.”

I bend to peer beneath his hat brim. “And who . . . what shall I call you?”

“I’m Father Paul.”

“Oh.” I want to ask if he’s really Father Paul, but paranoia bridles my tongue. If this man is an actual priest, I’ll offend him by the question. If he’s a CIA officer in alias, I’ll offend him with my stupidity.

Before I can ask where we’re going he has tossed my bag into the trunk and is opening the rear door. With one hand, he gallantly offers me the back seat.

“Um . . . thank you.”

In an effort to appear confident and in control, I rummage through my purse as he strides to the driver’s door. I dredge up my cell phone and study the keypad, wondering if I could dial an international version of 911 if this priest turns out to be some sort of renegade, but that idea is as ludicrous as the thought that I might actually have a friend to call in Spain.

Father Paul starts the car and pulls away from the ship, ignoring curious glances from some of the dockhands. I shiver as the cool breeze from his window fills the rear seat. “Do you know—” I hesitate, not wanting to create an international incident with an unintentional security breach. “Can you tell me if we’re going far?”

His gaze catches mine in the rear view mirror, and his eyes crinkle at the corners. “Not far at all, Señora. In fact, we are almost there.”

I glance around, unable to tell that we have left the port. The sea no longer lies behind us, but is located at my left. We are passing a marina filled with small boats, most of which look like pleasure craft or fishing vessels. My driver pulls alongside a curb, kills the engine, and bounds out of the vehicle before I can gasp another question.

I fumble with the door and let myself out, then step to the back of the car, where the priest is placing my suitcase on the pavement. “We’re stopping here? But I am supposed to go to some sort of facility.”

“Sí, Señora. And this man will take you there.”

“What man?” I straighten and shade my eyes from the glaring sun. Another man in a clerical collar is lumbering over the dock, a sheen of perspiration on his wide forehead. No old-fashioned cassock for him, but black pants and a black short-sleeved shirt. He is built like a guy who rips phone books for fun.

“I—I’m supposed to go with him?”

“Sí. Upon his boat, La Reina del Cielo.”

“The queen . . .”

“The Queen of Heaven, of course.”

I take a step back, not certain I want to go anywhere on a boat dedicated to heaven, but the perspiring priest has reached us. He lifts a questioning brow at Father Paul, who nods and points to my luggage.

I turn and gesture toward the comforting solidity of the city behind me. “Um—”

“This way, Dr. Carey.”

The second man’s accent is as American as baseball and he calls me doctor, which I take as a reassuring sign. I give him an uncertain nod and follow, remembering at the last moment to wave and thank Father Paul.

He and his sedan have already vanished.
* * *

~~Angie

Are you in Central Florida, part 2

I'm posting over on the Charis Connection as well, if you're interested in writing. :-)

Working hard on THE FACE because my deadline is coming up quickly. I even had to tell my hubby that I wasn't cooking for two weeks--oh, how my family suffers!

I'm excited to be helping the First Christian Church celebrate a birthday--of their church library! If you are in the Central Florida area, please mark your calendar for September 23rd. Let's help the church celebrate their ministry through BOOKS!

Click on the letter for more information.

Hope to see you in Tampa on the 23rd!

~~Angie

Movie Countdowns

http://www.flixxy.com/100-greatest-movies.htm?a=6

This is SOOO clever! Some very patient person went through movie clips and pulled NUMBERS from 100 movies. Settle back for a few minutes and enjoy the countdown!

~~Angie, on deadline and pushing toward it

Book Recommend: A SHADOW OF TREASON

Hi, everybody!

Back from Boston (actually, Westminster), and my head is too full for words. But it was a lovely trip and I'll write more about it later.

On the ride to the airport yesterday, I saw the trees beginning to change color and PUMPKINS in the field and on people's front porches! And the sky--it was a perfect sky blue and filled with perfect scribbles of clouds--it looked like the sort of sky a child would draw. Then I came home to a thunder-filled sky and glowering clouds--LOL! Only in Florida.

Today I wanted to tell you about my friend Trica's new historical novel--read and rejoice, history lovers!

Book 2 in the Chronicles of the Spanish Civil War series

Sophie discovers that nothing is as she first imagined. When Walt, the reporter who helped her over the border, shows up again after Guernica is bombed, Sophie is given an impossible mission. She must leave behind the man she's fallen in love with and return to the person who betrayed her. Another layer of the war in Spain is revealed as Sophie is drawn into the international espionage schemes that could turn the tide of the war and help protect the soldiers from the International Brigade ... she must find a way to get a critical piece of information to Walt in time.

Q and A with Tricia!

Q:
A Shadow of Treason follows A Valley of Betrayal. This is the first time you've written books as a series instead of stand alone. Which way do you like better?

A: I love writing in series. It was great to continue with the same characters. In my stand-alone books I fell in love with these people and then I had to say good-bye after one book. It was wonderful to be able to continue on.

Q: In A Shadow of Treason Sophie must return to the person who betrayed her in an effort to help the Spanish people. It makes the book hard to put down because the reader has to know how Sophie's heart will deal with it. Why did you decide to make this an element of the book?

A: There are very few of us who go through life without giving away a part of our hearts to someone who didn't deserve it. Even though Sophie had the best intentions, she gave away her heart and she was hurt-not only that she must revisit those emotions.

I wanted to include this element-to delve into the topic that emotions are sometimes as big of a trap as any physical cage. Emotions are real and they guide us -- even when we don't want to admit it. Poor Sophie, not only does she have to deal with a war around her -- she also has to deal with a war within herself. It's something I've battled, and mostly likely others have too.

Q: There is an interesting element that arises in this book and that is Spanish gold. I know you can't tell us what happens in this book, but can you give us a brief history of this gold?

A: Sure. When I was researching I came upon something interesting. The Spaniards, as we know, had taken much Aztec and Inca gold during the time of the conquistadors. Well, at the start of The Spanish Civil War much of this gold was still held in Madrid. In fact Spain had the fourth largest gold reserves in the world at that time. The Republican government was afraid Franco would take the city and the gold. They had to get it out of Madrid and this included transporting priceless artifacts. The element of gold does make its way into my story. It was great to include this little-known (and true!) element into my story.

Q: Another historical fact I learned about was the Nazi involvement during this time. Not only were the Germans active in Spain, but they had spy networks busy around the world. How did you find out about this?

A: I love reading tons of research books. Usually I find one little element that I dig out and turn into a plot line. This is what happened with my plot-line for the Nazi pilot, Ritter. I dug up this bit of research of Nazi involvement in Spain -- and the United States -- because a lot of people aren't aware of the Nazi involvement prior to WWII. The truth is they were busy at work getting the land, information, and resources they needed far before they threatened the nations around them. The Germans knew what they wanted and how to get it. And most of the time they succeeded!

Q: A Shadow of Treason is Book Two. When will Book Three be out? Can you give us a hint of how the story continues?

A: Book Three is A Whisper of Freedom. It will be out February 2008. The characters that we love are all still in the midst of danger at the end of Book Two. Book Three continues their stories as we follow their journeys in -- and (for a few) out -- of Spain. It's an exciting conclusion to the series!

Q: Wow, so we have a least one more fiction book to look forward to in the near future. Are you working on any non-fiction?

A: Yes, I have two non-fiction books that will be out the early part of 2008. Generation NeXt Marriage is a marriage book for today's couples. It talks about our marriage role models, our struggles, and what we're doing right as a generation. It also gives advice for holding it together.

I've also been privileged to work on the teen edition of Max Lucado's book 3:16. It was a great project to work on. What an honor!

Tricia Goyer has published over 300 articles for national publications such as Today's Christian Woman, Guideposts for Kids, and Focus on the Family, and is the co-author of Meal Time Moments (Focus on the Family). She has led numerous Bible Studies, and her study notes appear in the Women of Faith Study Bible (Zondervan).

Tricia and her husband John live with their three children in Kalispell, Montana. Tricia's grandmother also lives with them, and Tricia volunteers mentoring teen moms and leading children's church. Although Tricia doesn't live on a farm, she can hit one with a rock by standing on her back porch and giving it a good throw.

Important Links!

First Chapter:
http://triciagoyer.blogspot.com/2007/09/shadow-of-treason.html

Amazon Link:
http://www.amazon.com/Shadow-Treason-Chronicles-Spanish-Civil/dp/0802467687/

Tricia's Website:
http://www.triciagoyer.com

Tricia's blogs:
http://triciagoyer.blogspot.com
http://genxparents.blogspot.com
http://mywritingmentor.blogspot.com
http://www.myccm.org/triciagoyer
http://www.shoutlife.com/triciagoyer

I don' t know how she finds time to write with all that blogging! :0-

~~Angie

Finishing up at the Maass Conference

It's our last full day here at the novel writing intensive . . . my head is full of thoughts and my calendar is too short of days, but I'll try my best to make the two match up when I get home.

Don shared a joke this morning that he got from Wikipedia. We were doing an exercise on writing humor, so to put us in the mood, he told this joke: A gardener, an architect, and a lawyer are talking about the distinguished history of their professions. The gardener brags about the Garden of Eden—”We go back to the beginning of time,” he says. The architect says “We go even further than that because God designed and BUILT the world out of primordial chaos.”

The lawyer smiles smugly and says, “And who do you think created the primordial chaos?”

LOL! :-) And big hugs to all my lawyer friends.

Anyway, tonight I think we're having a big time in the big city of Boston. Going to get a Trivial Pursuit game and play until our eyelids droop. (Actually, we're about an hour out of the big city. We're tucked into this charming little inn, and there are two weddings here tonight. Maybe we'll go out and dance on the green.)

Another half day tomorrow, then I catch a shuttle and head to the airport. It's been a good week, a thoughtful one, and I'll be glad to be home! The best thing about going away is always coming home!

~~Angie

Deb Raney's garden

My friend Deb Raney has come up with the neatest idea for a blog! (Don't you love the picture of her in her bell-bottoms!)

First, you may know her as novelist Deborah Raney, author of novels like A VOW TO CHERISH. But she is also a homemaker extraordinaire, and her love extends to her garden. She has put together a blog at http://novelgarden.blogspot.com , where she features other novelists and their gardens.

I do love gardening, though I don't have much space or time for it these days (though I am looking forward to putting in my winter flowers--they just can't hack the Florida summers, so around October of every year I throw rye grass seed and put in lovely blooms).

In any case, be sure to visit Deb's garden spot in cyberspace--you may find some of your favorite novelists and their gardens!

Me, I'm still in Boston where it's CHILLY and I'm wearing a SWEATER! Can't believe it!

~~Angie

Ninja Text

Okay, so this cute little guy is irresistible. You can use him to say whatever you want to say, presumably with deep feeling. Visit http://www.fodey.com/generators/animated/ninjatext.asp
to have this cute little guy chop out your favorite message!

Still in Boston,

Angie

Library Journal's Fall Reviews

This just in from Library Journal:

Autumn Harvest This fall brings titles from big names in Christian fiction as well as the first Christmas-themed novels. Best-selling author Karen Kingsbury returns with an inspirational romance (Just Beyond the Clouds), Beverly Lewis launches another Amish series (The Parting), and Angela Hunt takes a light, witty turn with a family story set in a funeral home (Doesn't She Look Natural). Lynn Austin offers another intelligent, fascinating look at women's history (A Proper Pursuit), Brandilyn Collins presents her best suspense thriller so far (Crimson Eve), and chick-lit author Judy Baer returns with a sequel (The Baby Chronicles). And on the holiday front, Lori Copeland (Unwrapping Christmas), Robin Jones Gunn (Finding Father Christmas), and Jerry B. Jenkins and Dallas Jenkins (Midnight Clear) deliver delightful Christmas tales.

.Hunt, Angela. Doesn't She Look Natural. Tyndale House. Oct. 2007. c.368p. ISBN 978-1-4143-1169-2. pap. $13.99. CF

When Jennifer Graham learns she has inherited real estate in Florida, she never imagines it is a funeral home, especially one in need of so much repair. Thomas, Jennifer's husband, recently left her for their nanny, and she is at a crossroads in her life. A newly single parent with two boys, she sets off to settle her uncle's estate and sell the Fairlawn Funeral Home, but things don't go so smoothly, and Jennifer may find that this new life God has thrust upon her may be the answer to her prayers. Award winner Hunt's latest book (after The Elevator) is a topnotch inspirational tale that maintains a lighthearted touch. Anyone who has had to rebuild a life after an unexpected loss will appreciate the honesty of Hunt's characters and uplifting plot. Highly recommended for CF and women's fiction collections.

I love getting a great review, especially when I'm in the company of so many good friends!

And I am so ready for cooler temperatures!

~~Angie

When the Nile Runs Red by DiAnn Mills

I'm heading off to Boston today, but before I go I wanted to tell you about my friend and fellow red-head DiAnn Mills's latest book: When the Nile Runs Red.

Amazon Link - http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0802499112

Here's the synopsis: Paul Farid, who once persecuted the southern Sudanese, now loves the weary people whose lives have been destroyed by war.

Colonel Ben Alier has led his battle-hardened soldiers for two decades against the North, yet he pursues a relationship with his son even as his own demons pursue him.

Dr. Larson Kerr Farid works long hours caring for the sick, but fatigue and worry about her husband, are taking their toll. And she’s just learned something that will make everything more complicated.

These three friends face constant danger as tensions escalate between the north and south, and as Paul’s family schemes to kill him and Larson. Will Paul and Larson bridge the gap that seems to grow between them? And will Ben find peace as more than a soldier?

Use this link to view a Promo Video Clip - http://www.diannmills.com/sudan/WTNRRPromoClip.html

Best news of all: When the Nile Runs Red is being used to raise awareness of the atrocities that are taking place in Sudan. Book sale proceeds will be donated to restore the Sudanese community.


I thought you might enjoy hearing about why DiAnn chose this topic for this novel:

A: What inspired you to write this novel?

I had previously written a nonfiction book about the Lost Boys of Sudan – Lost Boy No More. From that research, I wrote the novel When the Lion Roars, but the story would not let me go.
Through numerous interviews and extensive reading, I grew to love and admire the courageous Sudanese people and was burdened by their incredible needs. I had to bring them back in When the Nile Runs Red.

A: Why Sudan in particular?

This country went through nearly two decades of civil war strife. In 1983, the northern government launched a holy war against the south. This grew out of the views of the Islamic north against the mostly Christian black African south. The war had three aspects: religion, politics, and oil. The atrocities committed against the southern people are too many to list, but the war was fought in the south through genocide.

A: How did you conduct your research?

I grabbed my backpack and sun screen and traveled to Juba, Sudan, the southern capital. There I stayed at a Christian compound and met with southern Sudanese from all walks of life: refugees, political leaders, and church leaders. I talked to as many people as I could, snapped pictures, and listened to what was being said.

A: I am so impressed! And I thought I was brave for going to the Amazon jungle! What touched you the most while you were in Sudan?

The incredible faith. I could look into a Sudanese’s eyes and see the pain of persecution and the hope of Jesus. Here, we say we love Jesus while we live in our huge homes, drive our fancy cars, are well-fed, are not hunted down for our faith, or are concerned about medical care. The Sudanese understand that all they have and need is Jesus.

A: I know every writer has his/her own methods, so how do you build your plots?

Always out of character with two simple words: what-if? John Gardner said to create the best possible characters and allow the worst possible things to happen to them. That says it all. It’s easy to coat our darlings with easy trials and struggles, but the hard stuff, the struggles that define the character are what have to happen. I’m a huge fan of Donald Maass and wouldn’t consider writing a paragraph without using techniques found in his books Writing the Breakout Novel and Writing the Breakout Novel Workbook.

A: (And that's why I'm going to Boston! I'm going to another Maass intensive, just like the one we shared together a couple of years ago!) Ahem. Back to the topic. What are you goals for this novel?

To increase awareness about the situation in Sudan and to share my passion for the Sudanese people through a compelling story. The proceeds for this novel go back to aid the Sudanese.

A: What do you hope the readers will gain?

To lose themselves in the novel. That’s every writer’s goal. But I also want the reader to sense a call to action and support the Sudanese cause.

A: What's coming up next for you?

I’m currently writing a romantic suspense series with a working series title of “Behind the Sunglasses”.

A: Sounds like a beach book! How can readers learn more about what you are doing?

Check out my website at www.diannmills.com . I have sections about Sudan, and for readers, and writers. Those signing up for my newsletter get to download a chapter of an upcoming release.

Thanks, DiAnn, for stopping by!

~~Angie

Medicine or Sex Soap?

I don't watch much network TV--most nights if I have time for entertainment at all, I watch a movie or read. The other night, however, I had the TV on while I was doing some work on the computer and I was frankly stunned at what I heard.

And then a friend and I were talking about how medical shows have changed. Do you remember Ben Casey? Dr. Kildare? Marcus Welby? Those shows were about medicine, about illness, about doctors making people better.

But today, look at most medical shows. HOUSE seems to be a bit of an exception, but I hear that Gray's Anatomy, Scrubs, and even ER are now more about who is sleeping with whom than about the sick people and their recovery. Am I mistaken, or is this a fair assessment?

I have found one new show that I really like. Maybe I like it because I'm on a CIA kick at the moment, but I really like BURN NOTICE, a new summer series on USA. It's about a spy who gets "burned" (fired) from his agency, and he has no idea who burned him. The main character, Michael Westin, is cool, smart, and very dry-witted. And he has a meddling mother and brother who keep his life off-balance and interesting. :-) I like the show because right now, at least, it's more about spying than sleeping around. Let's hope it stays that way.

Anyway, just my little rant for the day. I'll climb off my soapbox now.

~~Angie

What'd He say?

It is raining here, and thundering, and I have two chicken mastiffs trying to squeeze under my desk. Sheesh.

When I was writing THE ELEVATOR, I mentioned one of our local bridges, the Howard Franklin, several times. It's a three-mile span that links our county with Tampa.

Well, the astute copyeditors at Steeple Hill informed me that the bridge is really called the HOWARD FRANKLAND. You could have knocked me over with a finger. :-) I've called it the "Howard Franklin" for years, and so has everyone I know.

Reminds me of my dear hubby. Remember the old Carly Simon song, "You're so Vain?" There's a line that says, "You walked into the party, like you were walking onto a yacht." and goes on to say the guy was with the "wife of a close friend, wife of a close friend, and (beat), you're so vain."

Anyway, for years my hubby thought Carly was singing, "wife of a clothes pin." LOL! These days, does anyone even know what a clothes pin IS?

Okay, fess up now--what lyrics or term have you always mis-heard?

~~Angie

BOM: Questions and Answers

Questions and answers about Doesn't She Look Natural?

Well, I suppose this will teach me to answer questions as they come up! :-)

I have been HARD at work on "THE FACE"--even to the point of feeling a little overwhelmed by it all, but now that I'm into the third draft, I think it's beginning to shape up. I hope so, anyway, and next week I'll be in Boston, hard at work in a little room with the manuscript. Since the book is due at the end of this month, there's not much time to waste.

If you think of any other questions about "Doesn't She?", be sure to leave them below. Otherwise, we'll go back to our regularly unscheduled programming!

~~Angie

P.S. And here's the trailer for "Doesn't She Look Natural?" (Requires Quick time.)

BOM: Results and Reader Reaction

I've been fortunate in that the results and reader reaction have been kind. The only thing that concerns me is that a lot of emails and comments begin with, "I was hesitant to pick this up, but . . ."

I really hope people will get past the ick factor inherent in a funeral home and trust me. I think most of my regular readers do trust me not to get too graphic or be gratuitously gross, but it's the irregular readers I'm concerned about. I can only hope that reviews and word of mouth will assure people that the book is safe to pick up . . . . even if there is a casket on the cover. :-)

Tomorrow: Your questions and answers, so if you haven't already, please leave them in the comments box!

~~Angie

BOM: The Editing

I've just finished reading Jasper Fforde's "The Eyre Affair," and boy, was it different! I think it would appeal more to folks who love fantasy, because this is one weird world, but I found it very clever. It helps that Jane Eyre was one of my favorite novels growing up.

The editing of DSLN was fairly straightforward--I remember one big improvement suggested by Becky Nesbitt. If you're familiar with my plot skeleton, it's important that the ribs "swing," or more from positive to negative, from despair to hope, and I'd forgotten that. She suggested something about Thomas that, once implemented, put the positive back in a complication and made the ending so much more poignant. A very good call.

My editors were pleased with the humor in the book. I didn't set out to write a funny book, but the characters were funny, so the humor just came out. Little boys are funny. Exasperated mothers are funny. And sometimes when the going is rough, you have to laugh lest you cry, so I figured Jen had better do some laughing.

Tomorrow: results and reader reaction

~~Angie

BOM: The Writing

Writing Doesn't She (known to me now as DSLN) was a nice break from writing Uncharted. The latter was more speculative and definitely more of a suspense novel, so DLSN was more character driven and reality-based. Both books required in depth character development, and I had to keep in mind that Jen, Gerald, Joella and the boys were going to be around for THREE books, not just one. You may have noticed that I left a few strings hanging, dropped a few hints, that will be brought up in books two and three.

Writing DSLN brought back many home-improvement memories for me . . . . I'm an inveterate home improvement person, and I think I've undertaken a major remodeling of every house we've lived in--except this one (no room to remodel here!). So living "under construction" like Jen does is definitely something I've known from experience.

In any case, the writing wasn't too hard. I did have this book with me when I attended my second Don Maass intensive, and while I was there I was still trying to work out who lives and who dies. I had originally thought that XX would die, but Don suggested that XXX die as well. I said, "Oh, no, that's too many dead bodies," and Don laughingly said that he didn't think you could have too many dead bodies in a book about a funeral home.

Still, I couldn't kill off XX. (Sometimes you have to go with your gut). And I can't say more without ruining the book!

Tomorrow: the editing.

~~Angie

BOM: The Research

What does it take to research a book on living in a funeral home? A lot of reading, as it turns out. Unfortunately, because of the increase in our nation's privacy laws, it's almost impossible to get a tour of the room where they do the actual embalming--if there's a body being embalmed, that is. So I settled for reading, reading, and more reading. I also talked briefly to our local mortician, but there comes a point where you stop researching and just jump into the writing.

Specifically, I not only had to learn how to embalm a body, but the ins and outs of the business, and particularly what sort of education would be necessary to become an embalmer. I was fortunate to discover that Karen Watson, one of the editors at Tyndale, actually grew up in a funeral home, so she was full of good stories about living in a small town mortuary.

Once people began to learn that I was writing about a funeral home, morticians came out of the woodwork! We were on a cruise and it turned out that one of our dining companions was a mortician--he told us funny stories all night long, but they didn't translate so well to the printed page.

Tomorrow: the writing!

BTW, have you noticed that Hurricane Felix is churning around out there in the gulf? Hmmm . . .

~~Angie