BelleBooks Dominates Amazon Kindle Bestseller List

Nope. Not a typo. FOUR of the Top Ten Kindle slots are BelleBooks and Bell Bridge titles.

#2 Crossroads Cafe Deborah Smith
NOW # 1 as of 1-1-10

#3 Murder Takes the Cake Gayle Trent

#5 Mossy Creek Smith, Dixon, Ellis, Ball, Knight, Chastain

#7 Once Bitten Kalayna Price

#21 All God’s Creatures Carolyn McSparren

There has been much made over the last few days of the dominance of free books on Amazon’s Kindle Bestseller List. Some point to it as an indication that readers are demanding cheaper ebooks.

No. They’re just loading their brand new Kindles and who doesn’t like a good free classic like 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea?

But for the commercial publishers (like BelleBooks, Tyndale, Scholastic, and James Patterson’s publisher), who have free books hitting and STAYING in the Top 10 (and more big publishers with books in the Top 100), this is just promotion. We cleverly thought that people with bright shiny new Kindles received as holiday gifts would need content. So BelleBooks arranged for some of our backlist to be free for a limited time. We selected 5 books—either first in series or from an author with other titles published by us.

Boy howdy! Has this paid off. One of the books – ONCE BITTEN – is the # 1 Fantasy book on Amazon. Not Kindle…the full Amazon list. Has been for days.

CROSSROADS CAFE is the # 1 Romance book on Amazon.

MURDER TAKES THE CAKE is the #1 Mystery on Amazon.

Full list, not just Kindle.

The books are getting fabulous reviews. I don’t know about you, but I DO look at reviews when I buy a book. Especially if I don’t know the publisher or the author.

This is the equivalent of “end capping” or co-op advertising. For decades large publishers have paid for book placement in stores, in national chain newsletters, etc.

This is how a small publisher says, “Our books can hold their own. Just try one.”

And head to head, the small publisher’s books are beating out the other free books from large commercial publishers. We’ve always felt, that putting the books in front of readers is the surest way to build a audience for the author.

We don’t know distributed units. But we can say that the print versions of these books have shown some sales increases as well.

Got a Kindle? You might just want to pop over to Amazon.

And can I say it one more time and don’t think badly of me…BelleBooks owns the Amazon Kindle list. We think it’s nothing short of fantastic that so many of our books have risen to the top when there is so much free content on Amazon. And so much free content from large NY publishers who are doing the same thing we are…leveraging back list to promote their front list.

A Different Kind of Holiday

Christmas at the Brenna house is usually quite routine. My folks have been heading south for the winter right after Thanksgiving for many, many years, and seeing them over Christmas is normally not an option. So we've always stayed in town alternating between our house and my in-laws for a big Christmas meal. Santa has traditionally come during the night, and although my kids are far too old for the man in the white beard, we have continued to open gifts on Christmas morning.

We make cinnamon rolls along with a big breakfast. Homemade eggrolls later. Christmas music, a fire, movies, wassail simmering on the stove. Lots of tradition. And the house is normally decked out with all the trimmings.

Not this year. Christmas 2009 will go down in history in the Brenna family records as the most unusual. We were out of town with no Internet access, and I don't mean off visiting relatives, either. Nope. I just spent a week in paradise. Think rum punches and sandy beaches. Sunscreen and snorkeling. Crystal clear blue waters and eighty-five hot, humid degrees!

We went to St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands, and, I swear, I'm going back again to the Caribbean the first chance I get. Check it out. This was the view from our condo window.


And this was the view from St John, the neighboring island we ferried to for a day of amazing snorkeling.

So can you blame me that I didn't pull out all the stops and decorate the house this year? Given Mom's looming deadline and the timing of our trip, the kids were lucky to have a tree. But I have to admit that while we were hanging in the sun, more than once someone mentioned, "This is weird." Or, "It doesn't feel like Christmas." Listening to Christmas carols while the sun's beating down on your face and your feet are buried in hot, sugar-soft sand is strange.

And we enjoyed every minute of it. I have a feeling my kids will be wanting some NEW traditions because ... this is what we came back to on Sunday!

I'm absolutely positive I was not prepared for 24 or so inches of snow and 20 degree weather. But even with 70 spf my freckles are vivid, so I won't complain too much.

Have you had a favorite Christmas or other holiday? What made it so special? Ever do something unexpected for the holidays? How'd it go?

Happy Holidays everyone!
Helen

And the winner of Donna Grant's book is...

...SILVIA!

Congrats, Silvia! Please email toastfaery@gmail.com and state whether you'd like Mutual Desires or The Pleasure of His Bed sent to you by Donna. Include your snailmail address!

Merry Christmas!

CINDY'S MERRY CHRISTMAS POEM FOR OUR READERS!

This is my collection of Pipka Santas on the the mantle in our living room. Wish you could see the detail on the figurines - they're just lovely. All of these Pipkas have animals as part of the design. Gotta get my critters at Christmas too. :o)

Have a joyous holiday season and enjoy this little Christmas poem from me to you.

T’was the day before Christmas

and in Cyberland

the ladies of Topdown

are all feeling grand.

I feel fortunate, indeed,

to ride with this crew;

they’re insightful, delightful

and write GREAT books, too!

We love vampires and fairies,

cowboys and cops,

homespun and historicals

and of course, Special Ops.

We write to entertain you

and we treasure your thoughts.

We’re so happy you’re reading

our blogs and our plots.

We’ve had a fantastic year

as our books will attest

and we LOVE all our riders.

You guys are the best!

Lots of hugs we all send you.

From our course we won’t veer.

Here’s a promise from Topdown:

There’ll be more books next year!

So on behalf of Deb, Lois and Kathy

Michele, Helen and Susie,

Betina, Christie and Kylie

and me, Cindy, (the floozy)

Merry Christmas everyone!!!

We hold you all very dear.

It goes without saying, but...

Have a Happy New Year!!!

AND A VERY MEOW CATSMAS FROM BUDDY AND SLY

Guest: Donna Grant

Please welcome Donna Grant to the convertible today!  She wants us to think magic and do you believe or don't you?

First, thank you, Michele, for inviting me to guest blog!

It seems in every culture throughout history there has been mention of magic.  Some would say it doesn’t exist, some would argue it does.  How can something so widely spoken about not be real?  And if it is real, how do you prove it?

The wonderful thing about writing fiction is that I can create whatever kind of worlds I want and/or need for my story.  The world in my new Dark Sword series is most definitely filled with magic.  Both my heroines and heroes hold magic, though in different ways.

My heroes are warriors with primeval gods inside them giving them immortality as well as enhanced senses and the ability to control something be it water, people’s minds, or the very air you breathe.  It has been fun matching heroes to their powers.

My heroines are Druids, blessed with certain magical abilities that will aid the heroes in defeating the evil spreading over their world.  There are two sects of Druids in my world – the mie, or pure Druids, who practice healing and using their magic for good.  Then there are the droughs who go through a ritual that binds their souls with evil to create black magic.

In DANGEROUS HIGHLANDER (Dec 29, 2009) the heroine, Cara, has no idea she’s a Druid.  As a Warrior, Lucan is able to sense the magic in Druids, so he realizes what Cara is before she does.  As she’s drawn into his world of evil and magic, she must learn to control and harness her Druid abilities or all could be lost.

Here’s the blurb for DANGEROUS HIGHLANDER:

A DANGEROUS MAN…

He is magnificently strong — and dangerously seductive. One of the fiercest of his clan, Lucan MacLeod is a legend among warriors, inspiring fear in man and woman alike. For three hundred years, he has locked himself away from the world, hiding the vengeful god imprisoned in his soul. But then, a young lass caught in a raging storm awakens his deepest impulses…and darkest desires.

A DANGEROUS PASSION…

Cara doesn’t believe the rumors about MacLeod castle—until the majestic Highland warrior appears like a fiery vision in the storm, pulling her into his powerful arms, and into his world of magic and Druids. An epic war between good and evil is brewing. And Lucan must battle his all-consuming attraction for Cara—or surrender to the flames of a reckless, impossible love that threatens to destroy them both…

Tell us if you believe in Magic!  I’ll be giving away a signed copy of either MUTUAL DESIRE or THE PLEASURE OF HIS BED to a commenter.  

To find out more about the Dark Sword series or my other books, please visit my website at www.DonnaGrant.com.  And don’t forget to check out my month long contest!

Happy Reading and Merry Christmas!

Hugs,

D

www.donnagrant.com

Creativity is everywhere

 

I’m constantly amazed at the creativity that surrounds us.  I know everyone is busy with last minute holiday traveling, decorating or shopping.  So, today I’m not going to tax your brain.  I’m just going to share something I think is fabulously creative.

Especially if you’re a fan of Harry Potter.  This clip is hysterical, and I think I’d actually go see the movie.  If it was a real movie!

 

Just think of the other possibilities for extending the Potter franchise:

To Sir Dumbledore, With Love

Wizard Side Story

Dead Wizards Society

St. Elmo's Fire Demon

Owls in the Hood

Fast Times At Hogwarts High

Sometimes reinventing the wheel can be fun.

Since this is my last post before the holidays, I’ll wish everyone Happy Holidays!

BeGifted

So do you have all your Christmas shopping done?  Yes?  No?  You don't even want to think about it?

My answer is 'no'.  I thought I was all done, had only the gift for my mother to go get.  It involved a stealth mission involving my son, stopping by grandma's, and then sneaking into her garage to check the model number on her garage door opener.  She locked herself out a few weeks ago, and we thought one of those electronic entry pads would be perfect.  No keys?  Punch in a few numbers, and you're golden.

My son texted me in dismay: Marty (my brother) is getting Gma (grandma/my mom) the same thing.

Aggh!  That's the second year in a row my brother has scooped me on the present for my mom.  How does he do that?  It's like he can read my mind all the way across the city.  Evil, I say!  But not really.  We just both know what mom needs.  And yet, now I have to figure out a new gift.  My mother is a very hard person to buy for.  I'm sure you all have people like that in your life.

So what do you get for the person who has everything, or has such particular tastes that not just anything will do?  It makes gift-giving such a challenge, and not as much fun, in my opinion.  Are you a gift-giver who gives something you know they will like?  Or do you give something you like that you want to share with others?  And another question: Do you give what they want or what they need?  Needs seem so...utilitarian.  Wants more wondrous.  But perhaps a 'need' (like textbooks for my college-age son) is the best gift?

Let's dish about finding the perfect gift and shopping and—oh man, they unwrapped it all in less than ten minutes?  After all that shopping time?  :-)

Michele

Holiday Cheer !

Move over, Martha Stewart! Here comes the convertible, and look how decorative we are!

Four people sent pictures with such lovely notes that I want to give each one a spotlight. Books all around. You get a book, and you get a book, and you....Everybody gets a book!

First up: Kirsten...

Hi Kathleen !

How are you. My family has the holiday tradition to wait with decorating the tree till the afternoon of December 24. So I can’t send you a picture of our tree as it isn’t up yet. We come together on the 24^th to unpack the boxes with lots of eclectic ornaments collected over the years. There’s such a giddy and expectant atmosphere. Waiting so long I believe increases the excitement. We share stories often told : remember when… you made this when you were 6 years old … oh no not that ugly gift from auntie, do we have to include it?.... We also haven'tgot many lights outside. It is sadly not a possibility. A shame for I have seen many memorable shows in gardens close by and loved how it just screams Happy Holidays.

Often it’s difficult to ignore that call of Christmas that makes you want to run to the attic and pull out some sparkles or snow. So this year I was a little naughty and decorated our cabinet with early Christmas spirit. I hung up an angel. Picked a apple branch, tradition says it has to be on St. Barbara day dec. 4, placed it in a vase of water and it will bloom on Christmas day. As I was late I don’t know if it will make it but blossom is always beautiful even after xmas. I bought at Ikea a standard that holds some hearts a peace dove and pair of ice skates. Also a little gold star. In the middle is a chocolate wreath and green sprig with plaited bow. Added two candles and a vase with two (unfortunately fake but still) very pretty poinsettias. In the front I placed sparkling snowballs that won’t melt for years and years. Some snow at last for the weather has not provided it. I wrote it down on my wish list but alas. And a wooden box that has cross stitch xmas cookies on it. Like a gingerbread guy. A gift from my mother last year, despite her being in much pain she took the time and effort to make me this gift. Knowing how much it cost her I treasure it dearly.

I made the angel, hearts, skates and dove myself using a fabulous book of patterns by Tonne Finnanger. It was very fun and easy as I’m not usually so gifted with the needle. But if you ladies do not have the patterns and want to make a heart it’s easy. Any heart shape will do. (Cut two hearts out of a scrap of fabric and sew together. Turn inside out, stuff firmly close opening and sew thin ribbon as hanger in the middle. Decorate with button, glass beads or other fun trinket. Simple and super.) Mine did come out just like the pictures in the book. If I may say so myself without sounding arrogant I’m very proud of them. I have much more decorations and even some more handmade ones but they are still in their boxes. For we still go ahead with our tradition and leave the decorating of our tree till the day before Christmas. I’m really looking forward to it, fun and family time, what joy.

When the tree stands in all it’s glory we leave it up for the 12 days of Christmas, another tradition passed down to me from my parents and grandparents which I wouldn’t change for the world. And I’m sorry Santa for being naughty. It’s just so that I no longer could (completely) ignore that jazzed feeling of: Christmas is coming! Does this mean I’m not getting my wish for snow?

Heeere's Anna...

This is a photo of our tree. The ornaments are mostly disney and we've been collecting them since the children were born. This year my son helped with the lights and my daughter helped put the thing together. The advent calendar on the wall is from our time in Hawaii and says Mele Kalikimaka, which means Merry Christmas. If you look out the windows you can see the first snowfall of this year, nothing like Michele's neck of the woods but pretty all the same. Our traditions are a bit different because we are military and usually travel back home for the holidays. We always put this tree up on Thanksgiving and take it down on New Years. While decorating we have snacks, chosen by the children, and watch movies, chosen by all. Hauling the boxes is Flyboy's job and he mutters (and curses) about too much stuff, but he still lets me have more. We decorate the entire livingroom and kitchen areas even if we aren't going to be home because the kids like it. The tree and household decorations are our constants during the holidays because everything else is changeable.

Dagmar on her adorable display...

I always put my decorations together by species. They look better in a group.

Have not much room for christmas being a student. Here a picture of my little collection.

Gingerbread and Soldiers. Love a man in Christmas uniform.





Our longtime friend Candace always does Christmas up big, bright and beautiful. Here's her tree ...


...and her
Santa mantel...














....and the piece de resistance
Candace's holiday dessert buffet!
All deliciously, meticulously home made. She hosts a party every year and bakes for days in preparation. Mmmm...

Happy holidays, everyone! Thank you for sharing your wonderful stories. God bless us, every one.

'Tis(zy) the Season

One more week, two big questions: What are you doing for the holidays? and/or Are you all ready for Christmas? Does anyone else feel pressured?

This is Kylie's tree. Love the way the packages look, don't you? Here in The Eagles' Nest we have an old rocking horse who comes out this time of year, too. He's painted red, and he has different riders every year--babies, teddy bears, Barbie dolls, whatever's handy.

Did you put up a tree? Real or artificial? Do you have a color scheme, or is your tree like mine--decorations collected over the years, each with a story behind it? Last week when I told my sister over the phone that I was almost finished decorating, she said she wasn't putting up a tree this year. I've heard that from a few people--"keeping it low-key this year." I've had years like that, when, for whatever reasons, I just didn't feel like dragging all that stuff out only to have to pack it all up again a few weeks later. Most years, though, once I get started, I don't know when to quit. I'm a pack rat. I save everything and the story to go with it. I'm going to have to downsize one of these days. But not today.

I made these felt frames backed with magnetic tape a few years ago. The grandchildren weren't with us for Christmas that year, so I put them up
where I could see them a lot. I haven't taken them out since, but I put them up again this year, and the kids love them.








Michele says: "In the Hauf household, we use the traditional means of measure to determine snowfall. The cat toss. I’d say we have about a half a tail’s worth (about four inches) right now." What a gorgeous photo, huh?








Cindy's kitty says, "Don't mean to be catty, but I'm much prettier than that guy in red."













And how about Lois's beautiful Sage in his holiday
finery?

Do the critters in your house get stockings? One of my favorite gifts for humans who have everything is a wildlife adoption from Defenders of Wildlife or the MN Wildcat Sanctuary.






This is a wonderful season for those of us who love to collect. My brother's wife collects gorgeous Santas. Over the years I've collected bear ornaments, and we always have a special bear tree. What's your ornament collection like?

Kylie accents her Santas (right) with lights. It's so much fun to arrange groupings like this. It's like seeing old friends once a year.














Kylie displays miniatures on a beautiful antique dresser.










Here are some of my Christmas collections. The candles are E-bay finds that brought back memories. Anybody recognize them? Mama had some of these--snowmen, trees, choirboys, angels, deer, Santas (Gurney and Tavern companies, late 40's early 50's). Some of them were premiums that came with Prell shampoo. Decorations were simpler then. I love the stories that go with these keepsakes, and I tell them every year as we unwrap each piece and make a place for it.

The Wizard of Oz dolls are more recent. They're McDonald's toys. Most of these came from E-bay, too, although the grands collected the first ones with the very occasional Happy Meal. Then I decided it was healthier--and cheaper--to bid on them.

And then there's my Barbie collection. Upwards of 50 of the vintage variety--1959-1973. I get teased a lot, but not by my granddaughters. They understand. They're 5 and 7. I've told them they get the Barbies when I die. (The 5 year old has taken to getting her dibbsies in on other things, too. "Nana, when you die, can I have these shoes?")








And what Christmas would be complete without our favorite stories? I like to incorporate the books into the scene.

Now, it's your turn. Share your decorating ideas. Even better, e-mail your snapshots (kathleen.eagle@comcast.net) and we'll feature them here, riding around with us as we dash through the snow, laughing all the way. We'd love to hear about your traditions, your memories. An autographed book for anyone who sends a picture with permission to post it here on RWTTD! But comment with or without a picture. 'Tis the Season!

Oh, and per our movie discussion the other day, I have a recommendation. We saw Invictus today. Two talons up from the Eagles! If you're looking for feel-good, this is it. Clint Eastwood scores again with a terrific story and wonderful performances by Morgan Freeman as Nelson Mandela and Matt Damon as the captain of the South African rugby team that won the World Cup.

Secret Santa Nightmares

Now that I have co-workers again, I'm starting to remember some of the less pleasant rituals and customs associated with working "the day job." Like the tradition of "Secret Santa." You know, the quaint little custom by which people unload ghastly knick-knacks and re-gift awful items onto their office-mates in the name of Christmas cheer. Or take the opportunity to buy strange or overly explicit gag gifts (emphasis on the "gag" part) for people they believe are too prudish or aggressive or clueless. Or use the occasion as an excuse to lavish unsought and embarrassing largess on people they've harbored a secret crush on for months. . . years. . . decades.

There are pitfalls aplenty in the Secret Santa tradition. The whole "secret" thing, for starters. I mean who wouldn't like the opportunity to give a coworker what we think they deserve? Especially the jerk who keeps emptying the candy jar and the coffee pot without once replenishing the Hershey Kisses or bothering to make a new batch of coffee. Unfortunately, the secret only lasts until the Christmas party. . . then you're outed and have to own up to the six-pack of Speed Stick deodorant you left with a big red bow on "Stinky's" desk. sigh. I say, if it's a Secret Santa exchange, then keep in a secret. . . FOREVER.

But even on those occasions where you draw a friend or respected colleague's name, you still have problems. There's that pesky $1, or $10, or $20 limit that everyone swears they'll abide by. And of course, they lie. You hear what other people are buying and it seems like everyone is ignoring the limit. . . you don't want to seem chintzy, so you overspend. And then you feel like an idiot when the person who drew your name gets you an angel ornament made out of doilies from some church bazaar or a puke green nose warmer crochetted by a little old neighbor lady. There is no such thing as equity in the world of Secret Santa. Karma seems to have totally disappeared in that warped social Black Hole. What goes around does not necessarily come around.

I confess, I did it again this year. I overspent. We had a $20 limit and I ended up with a cocoa set (with 2 cute mugs) and a cozy blue microfiber throw for cuddling up under while sipping the cocoa. Then I saw these really cute ornaments that you put your kids' photos in. . . and of course I had to get some additional gourmet cocoa. I'm thinking about making the receiver of my fabulous "Secret Santa" gift sign a joint custody agreement. . . so I can use the throw on alternate weekends.

What about you? What was the best or the worst Secret Santa gift you've ever gotten? given? Are you a big spender or a penny pincher? Do you shop at a "dollar" store or try to score a bit of luxury for your giftee?

Such gifts -- done in secret-- may say as much about us as they do about the one we buy them for. MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Uno, Dos, Tres...Movies!

I'll go long lengths of time without hitting the theaters, but this last week I saw three movies! Let me tell you what I think...

My mom came for a visit and as she's a Jake Gyllenhaal fan (think he looks like her husband!) we had to see "Brothers." Tobey Maguire (nominated as best actor for a Golden Globe) is Sam, the "good" brother and a Marine officer about to be dispatched to Afghanistan. Before he leaves, he retrieves brother Tommy (Jake's character), who has done time for a robbery, from prison. The brothers obviously care for each other, but bad boy Tommy feels out of step with his brother's family, including two daughters and wife Grace (Natalie Portman). When tragedy strikes, the family dynamic changes. Forever?

I thought the actors did a great job in this movie but it is violent and the premise is tragic. I had my hands over my eyes several times and my heart broke for the characters involved. This is not a feel-good movie, but one that is powerful and poignant. You'll need hot chocolate and cookies after seeing this.

I went with a group of girlfriends to see "The Blind Side." I felt guilty going to see this movie (mid-day, hurray!) without the guys in my life. Except, really, it's a woman's movie. A mom's movie, in particular, though I think all of us with the XX will get Leigh Anne Tuohy's (as played by Sandra Bullock, nominated for a Golden Globe for best actress) determination to help the quiet, gentle giant, Michael Oher, who comes into her life through her childrens' school. Tears started early from my row while watching this one. This is feel-good, feel-powerful, feel-for-others in the very best way. It's not a sports movie in any elemental sense, and they went over the football aspects of it slowly, and with small words, which worked for me. Great way to spend some holiday time.

George! What's the delightful secret George Clooney knows that has him grinning that delightful grin? Certainly not the job he has in "Up in the Air" (nominated as best picture for the Golden Globes, George for best actor) as the character Ryan Bingham who flies around the country firing people. We see how disconnected he is from others and we also see real film of real people losing their jobs. Their reactions tug at your hearts and gut as well as the fictional predicament of Ryan. He's self-deprecating and self-aware, which makes him all the more charming...and sad. I enjoyed this movie, but not sure I recommend as holiday fare. I like a more...um, satisfying ending, and if you want to know how I rewrote it, email me and I'll give you the Christie edition!

Now I'm eager to see "Nine," the musical with everyone from Fergie to Sophia Loren. What about you? Is a movie on your holiday list?

Breakfast of Champions

I breakfasted on potato chips this morning. I’m not sure what that tells you about me, but I don’t think it says anything positive. I think, in fact, it suggests something like ‘I have officially hit bottom.’ There are other signs. Such as the length of my leg hair. It should be harvested soon. Someone could make a nice rug. Well, not ‘nice’ exactly, but you know what I mean. I have also ceased to wear makeup. And one day last week I wore my pjs under my snow suit when I stumbled outside to do morning chores.

What’s the reason for all this bottom hitting, you ask? I’m not exactly sure. I believe it has something to do with my broken arm. I’ve recently discovered that fractured bones don’t have much respect for deadlines. Hence, my book is going to be late, REALLY late, for the first time in my life. So, in my all or nothing way of thinking, I figure, what’s the use…I might as well be YEARS late. And become hirsute, and get fat. And so what if there’s a half an inch of top soil on every horizontal surface in my house?

As it turns out, hitting bottom is pretty liberating. And while it’s a nice place to visit I don’t think I can afford to live here. So, what do I do about rising above it and all that?

Truth to tell, I got my cast off today. It was duly replaced by a removable splint, which allows me to type with all ten lovely (if somewhat misshapen) digits. Yay! Except, I no longer have a reason to avoid shaving, and cooking, and there are those who expect me to get out of bed sometime before late afternoon.

Hence I need suggestions about how to motivate. Have you ever hit bottom? What precipitated the fall? Did you find yourself dining on substances that should only be eaten by the Inuit during the dark season? Or do you have other methods of ruining your life?

Winter Memories

Cindy's post yesterday sparked the thought for mine today. Winter has settled not so gently over the area with a blizzard last week and freezing rain expected early this week. As I check the weather forecasts daily and mentally adjust schedules in case of bad weather, it occurs to me that I now look at winter and snow through an adult's eyes.

I'm not quite sure when this happened. I suspect about the same time I started carrying gloves in the pockets of every coat and buying winter boots again. Sometime between that teenage oblivion to the temperature and the day I started insisting the automatic battery jumper was in my vehicle before setting out on a trip.

And when I look outside at the gorgeous snow (and yes, it's beautiful before it's all crusty and gray and dirty), sometimes I miss being able to see it with a child's eye. Granted, I still enjoy snow days just as much :) but now they are accompanied by the worry of how far into June my school year will extend. I'm not going to lie and say I do *any* shoveling, but I do feel sorry for my sweetie when he's out there for hours.

When I was a kid I remember having far more snow than we get these days. Snowdrifts were as high as the curbside mailbox. Of course I never thought of the work my dad put into getting the snow into those drifts. With the rosy memory of youth I figured he enjoyed his time shoveling as much as we enjoyed digging a fort into the side of drift. When we got older and more sophisticated we'd drag the hose out and spray it so it'd ice over, ensuring our work would last all winter.

Sometimes when the drifts were high enough we'd have a fort on either side of the driveway, one for the boys and the other for the girls. The snowball fights that ensued most likely created another shoveling issue for my dad. I just remember they tended to be vicious and short-lived. No matter how many snowballs we had ready, we lacked the throwing ability and sheer bloodthirstiness that propelled my brothers to victory, every time.

We used to ice skate. There was a large outside rink at a nearby park that had live music and romantic moonlight circles around the rink (or at least as romantic at twelve year olds can get.) Although our parents never knew it, we also skated indiscriminately on the creek nearby, jumping the barb wire fence and the dam with a fearlessness that has long since escaped me.

When the snow was piled especially high, yes, we'd even jump off the bridge onto the drift. I will admit being petrified to do it, but I mentioned having three older brothers, right? The possibility of breaking a leg didn't measure up to being called a 'baby' by any of them.

We had a toboggan and sleds with the old-fashioned metal runners. We'd use them on a huge hill outside of town. The next door neighbor had a snowmobile and the dad would have all of us pile on a toboggan hitched to the back and take us sledding for hours.

When I was older a large group of us would trek to MN or WI to go skiing and I'd pretend to have fun. Okay, I am so not athletic. And falling down gets old fast! But when my kids got old enough I'd don my winter clothes and take them outside and help build snowman, and teach them how to build snow forts (if you don't have a drift handy.) For several years my husband and I had snowmobiles and that can be fun if you travel to where they have trails through the woods and lakes to ride across. There's a sort of spiritual quality to riding along pristine snow and seeing the evergreens boughs heavy with the latest snowfall.

Somehow I seem too busy and cold these days to contemplate the snow with anything other than a wondering eye. But I'm making a vow that as soon as the grandchildren get here next week, I'm teaching them how to make snow angels. And try to recapture a bit of the wonder that used to accompany snow.

Visions of an Iowa Winter

I took a few photos of the snow and other ...things :o). Just for fun I thought I'd share them with you on this cold winter day. Enjoy! Cindy

This is the path to our deck and screened porch after the big blizzard hit. That's not fake snow on the Christmas wreath :o)
Now I realize that for you tough Minnesotans and Mountain Westerners, this doesn't look like a lot of snow - but this early in Dec, it's a lot of snow for us so soon in the year.







Here's a shot of the front of our house with the shrubs all covered with that pretty white stuff we love to look at but hate shoveling :o)














A view from the back yard. That's about a 5 foot drift covering the ground in front of the little play house my DH built for the grandkids.














Meanwhile, inside the house, I was going on about my business, cleaning and doing laundry and keeping warm while the wind howled and the temp hovered around zero. In this pic, I'd just removed a batch of clothes from the dryer and was about to toss in another ... but wait. Buddy found a nice warm place to sit out this cold winter.






So I shooed him out of the dryer and finished my laundry and decided it was a great day to wrap presents.
Oh course, Buddy decided the packages were a great place to take a nap.










Here's one final shot of the pasture beside our house. It's hard to see it but that drift in the middle is over 6 feet tall and about forty feet long. I love how the wind cut swirls into the snow and made all those pretty patterns.










Stay warm everyone!!

Romantic Times Award Nominees

Yay! Our crew has some Romantic Times Reviewer's Choice Award nominations to celebrate!

Congrats to ...





Michele - The Devil to Pay was nominated for Best Silhouette Nocturne.











Betina - Make Me Yours was nominated for Best Harlequin Blaze.












Christie - I Still Do was nominated for Best Silhouette Special Edition.











Lois - Seduced by Your Spell was nominated for Best Historical Paranormal











Cindy - Feel the Heat was nominated for Best Romantic Intrigue











And Helen - From the Outside was nominated for Best NASCAR and Next Comes Love for Best Superromance.







Go go Riders!