2010 is coming!

Here we are again--arriving at the dawn of a new year. Do you have any dreams or goals for 2010?

I’ve been thinking quite a bit about this and I’ve come to a conclusion…what I need for 2010 is perspective! It’s so easy for me to slip into the tyranny of the urgent rather than stepping back to see the bigger picture. You know that old saying, "You can’t see the forest through the trees?" Well, that about sums up life some days. My path and way seems hidden.

What would life look like if I saw each and every situation through God’s lens? Nothing is hidden from Him. I can’t help but think that some things that I stress over would seem inconsequential. And what about the challenges, fears, or even pain that I may face in 2010? Would I see these more as opportunities for God to be at work rather than focusing on the heartbreak they may be causing today?

Proverbs 3:5-7 says (New King James Version)
"Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths. Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the LORD and depart from evil."

That's my goal for this new year! Would you pray with me?

Lord, I praise You! You are the giver of all good things. Forgive me for my lack of faith when things don’t go or work out they way that seems right to me at the moment. Forgive me for often putting my own way above Your ways.

Thank you for the opportunity I have to bring in another year here on earth, to know You and love You more. I pray that You would give me (give us) the strength to rise above life’s difficult situations. Grant me the ability to see things from Your perspective. Give me eyes to see where You are at work so that I may join you there. Guide my footsteps this year and in the years to come that I may finish this race here on earth and one day hear you say, "Well done, good and faithful servant."

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

I’d love to hear what kind of goals you have for 2010. Feel free to leave a comment and share what’s on your heart and/or mind.

Living Nativity

Somehow, I've managed to go my entire forty-something years without ever being in a Christmas pageant. So, when my son told me he and his girlfriend wanted to participate in our church's Living Nativity scene this year and asked me to join them, I jumped at the chance.

I knew right away I wanted to be an angel. I was arguably too old to be Mary and I wanted something with a bit more glamour than a shepherd. I definitely didn't want to be one of Herod's dancing girls. (That's a bit too much glamour - LOL). So, I was thrilled when I got there and was appointed Head Angel. Woo hoo!

Our church is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. The Living Nativity has been a tradition for over 50 of those years. When our church was in its older building, the head angel had to climb out a Sunday School window and appear on top of the church roof!

My son and his girlfriend scored the roles of Joseph and Mary. They were thrilled. Being Joseph and Mary can be a tough gig - they stay in position thoughout all 6 consecutive performances and never go inside. The rest of us go out to perform, then come back in to feast on pizza and all the other "backstage" treats.

Luckily, the Wise Men hid hot chocolate and pizza slices in the boxes that were supposed to be full of gold, frankincense and mhyrr! So Cameron and Erin got some treats, too.

Here are some photos from last night. We had a great time re-living the greatest Christmas gift of all!

"And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.'"

"Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.'"

"So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told to them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart."

Merry Christmas to you and yours! May God bless you richly in 2010.

Blessings, Teri

Teri Wilson ~ Romancing the pet lover's soul

http://www.teriwilson.net/

Cup of Joe by Teri Wilson, A Night Owl Romance Reviewer Top Pick ~ available now at White Rose Publishing

The latest release...

DANIELLA is now available!

White Rose Publishing writes... Secretaries, disappearing contracts and handsome executives draw us into intrigue during these final days before Christmas! This is another great read from veteran author, JoAnn Carter, and just the right length to fit into your hectic holiday schedule.

Blurb:
When Harrison Beckman meets his father’s secretary, Daniella Duncan, she’s shy and self-conscious. Harrison, however, is determined to get to know her better. Before he gets to do that a rival comes along to steal Dani’s heart as quickly and thoroughly as the company’s contracts, which have been disappearing. As the mystery unfolds, Harrison has to fight for the woman he loves, even though this means crossing swords with his father and his determined adversary. Will Harrison be able to find the love that could await them or will it be too late?

Here's a little excerpt which introduces the two main characters...

"Oh, Dani fits me all right. It sounds short and fat." Her hand clamped over her mouth, and her eyes grew even wider. Harrison’s heart nearly broke when she asked, "Did I really say that out loud?"



It had been drilled into his head since he was a boy never to talk to women about two things: their age and their weight. Now, what should he do with this hanging hot potato? Ignore it. "I didn’t hear anything if you didn’t." He tried to continue with the previous introductions.


"Everyone calls my father Mr. Beckman, so I go by Harrison."



"Okay. I’ll try to remember that." Daniella seemed to have reached her limit; she looked like a cat being chased by a mouse, desperate for escape. "Um, I really need to get back now, so..."



"Sure. Thanks again." Harrison didn’t even know if she heard him as she turned and left with quick steps.



He stood quietly by his door and listened to the clickety-clack sound Daniella’s shoes made on the linoleum fade into a soft pitter-patter as she retreated down the hallway. He shut his door while contemplating the strange woman who was just in his office. Pretty but strange...yes, definitely strange. Finally, he shrugged his shoulders and went back to the tasks at hand.

Hope you'll be able to pick up your copy today. ($3.50) Don't forget, if you sign up for the White Rose Newsletter, you will get 10% off your order now through Christmas.

Be Careful What you Wish For

Today I’d like to share a personal story with you about being careful what you wish for. It happened to me back in the eighties. Does anyone remember the home jewelry parties? Well, I do and I’ll never forget my one and only experience. It happened one Christmas. Enjoy!

Diva Queen
“And here’s our show stopper,” the jewelry representative held up a sleek snake necklace with emerald green eyes. “Can’t you just see yourself at all the Christmas parties in this breathtaking piece? And it can be yours in a heartbeat. All you need do is host the next jewelry party at your house, sell enough jewelry to meet the quota—and this hostess gift is yours! Now which of you lovely ladies is gonna be the Diva Queen of all his dreams?”
I couldn’t take my eyes off it. The emerald green snake eyes had me hypnotized. Before I could stop myself, I shot my hand high in the air. Practically panting, I screamed with gusto. “Me! I’ll host the next party. That necklace is mine!”

For the next two weeks before my party, I walked around with my head in the clouds, dreaming of the gorgeous necklace I’d showcase at all the upcoming Christmas parties. I walked around with stars in my eyes. I dreamed of it and counted the days until it was mine. In between decorating the house, trimming the tree and baking cookies, I went shopping for a dress regal enough to complement my show stopper.

Humming a verse or two of All I want for Christmas, I called every friend, relative and co-worker I could think of, making certain I’d sell enough jewelry to win my hostess gift. On the morning of my party, I even went so far as to post signs on telephone poles, bribing the unsuspected with promises of cookies and hot buttered rum. Giddy with delight, I ushered the jewelry representative in on a blast of cold winter wind.
“Come on in. I have a table ready for you in the living room. Go on and set things up. I’ll just check on the refreshments.”
And before long, the house was bustling with excitement as guests chose accessories to jazz up holiday wardrobes. And by the end of the party, I far exceeded the points I needed to claim my hostess gift. The minute all points were tallied, I screamed loud enough to wake the living dead.
“YES!”

But two weeks later, guests began calling me, curious as to the whereabouts of their orders. Puzzled, I called the representative, who assured me the shipment was just running a little late due to the Christmas rush. But when guests began calling me and leaving irate messages on my machine, I got suspicious.
“How dare you try and pull one over on us,” a co-worker screeched. “Of all the people in the world, you’d be the last person I’d suspect of stealing money.”
Something inside me went ice cold. What was she talking about? My left eye began to twitch the way it did when I was upset. Biting my lip, I made a few phone calls, feeling the life being sucked right out of me.
And when I learned the jewelry representative had told my guests she’d delivered the shipment to me over a week ago, my heart sank. I smelled a rat. And after more phone calls to the company, I learned the jewelry order was never turned in. The trusty representative had pocketed my money and was nowhere to be found, leaving me in bad standing with my friends, relatives and co-workers.

After countless calls to the jewelry company, numerous apologies to my guests and more heartache than I’d ever known, I reached rock bottom. But when guilt finally caught up with the jewelry representative, she called with a full confession.
“I’m so sorry,” she choked out in between sobs. “I couldn’t afford to pay the rent. I had all good intentions of turning your order money in next week. Honest. I’m really sorry. I’ve never done this. Can you forgive me?”
Her sobbing disgusted me. Because of her jack-be-nimble fingers, I lost the respect of the people I cared most about. I just shook my head, unable to say the words desperately wanting to roll off my tongue. I simply slammed down the phone, feeling a whole lot older and a whole lot wiser.
And a few days before Christmas, when my jewelry order was at long last delivered, I opened it with a heavy heart. And when I unveiled my hostess gift, something I was ready to sell my soul for, an icy chill washed over me. The sleek gold snake necklace glistened on a bed of blue velvet, its emerald green eyes winking up at me like the eyes of a serpent. Closing the lid, I packed it away. I wanted no parts of it. Because of a piece of glamorous costume jewelry, I’d nearly lost sight of the true meaning of Christmas. Greed had taken hold of me, ensnaring me in its ugly web. I felt ashamed. Nothing was worth the price of that necklace.

The following day, I wrapped up the necklace and placed it under the Angel tree at my church. And the minute I did, I felt the weight of the world lift from my burdened shoulders. Humming along to the beautiful instrumental the choir was playing, the sound of flutes and harps filling me with inner peace, I left with a light heart and a valuable lesson learned. Be careful what you wish for.

Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas and Holiday Season!

A Nice Collection of Christmas Stories Available...

I don't know about you, but I love to read Christmas stories this time of year. Did you know that White Rose Publishing has quite a collection of them? (A few of the covers are shown above.) I didn't realize how many until I peeked at Holiday Theme link: http://whiterosepublishing.com/store/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=151

If you have read any of the Christmas titles, I'd love to know what you think. What was your favorite? Do you have any recommendations for us who are scouting them out?

*P.S. If you have signed up for the White Rose Publishing Newsletter, there is a 10% off coupon that is good through Christmas! Now would be a great time to pick up a book or two. For those of you who want to sign up for the newsletter--it's not too late. :)

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Devotions available for this Friday's Release!

This coming Friday, December 18th, Daniella will be released! You can watch the book trailer here: http://www.youtube. com/watch? v=rExz49PPw_ 4

In the meantime, if you're looking for a little something special to either end the year-- or perhaps a pick-me-up after the holidays, head over to my web-page http://home.comcast.net/~jo.glenncarter/site/ Click on the link at the top of the page that says Devotions for Daniella. There will be two full weeks of special Bible passages, thoughts, and plenty of room to journal your insights.

I hope you'll enjoy and be able to take advantage of this opportunity. Have a wonderful week!

Orchard Hill Trivia Contest Starts Tomorrow!

Everyone is invited to visit my blog tomorrow (and the two following days)to join in the Orchard Hill Trivia Contest. To find out more about Orchard Hill please visit my website karalynnrussell.googlepages.com/orchardhill. To find out more about the contest please visit my blog orchardhill.blogspot.com.

Plus, I'll post a few extras on my blog before the end of the year. Cora Applebaum, Orchard Hill's most informed citizen will be reporting on all the weddings that took place after the matchmaking contest. (They sure kept Pastor Isaac busy!)

And I'll give you a little sneak peak of a couple of new Orchard Hill stories. Hope to see you there!

Holiday Themed Romaces Continue

Hey Friends,

Run over to my blog and check out the Holiday Themed Romances!

This week.....

Susan Lyons, Elaine Cantrell and Kathy Otten!

Hope to see you there.


Pamela S Thibodeaux
"Inspirational with an Edge!"

Spend a Year in Orchard Hill and Win!

Think you'd like to visit Orchard Hill, a small town with big romance? There are a few ways to get there. You can

Try some short Orchard Hill stories for free!

Buy individual Orchard Hill stories at White Rose Publishing.

Buy the collected stories in print - volumes 1, 2 & 3 - at White Rose Publishing.

Buy the Orchard Hill Gift Set from White Rose Publishing. Includes all three print volumes, a White Rose Publishing Mug and Apple Cider mixes.

OR

You can enter the Spend a Year in Orchard Hill Trivia Contest!

This contest will take place on the Orchard Hill blog. I'll post 3 Trivia questions each day on December 10, 11, and 12. Answers to all questions can be found on my website, in the story blurbs or excerpts. Send me the answers at karalynn_russell@yahoo.com. Please include your email address so I can contact you if you win.



Every correct answer earns you 1 chance in that day's drawing. (3 correct answers means I'll put your name in the hat 3 times.) I will draw the winners' name on the day after I post that set of questions and announce the winner on the blog.

One winner each day will win a "Spend a Year in Orchard Hill" desk calendar and a download of any Orchard Hill story they choose.



The first person to reply each day will win an Orchard Hill magnet set, which includes one small magnet featuring the covers of the print volumes and a larger calendar magnet with the slogan "Spend a Year in Orchard Hill."



So pack your bags and get ready to visit Orchard Hill. Just make sure to lock up your heart if you don't want to lose it. You never know what will happen with Pansy and Misty competing for matches.

Spend a Year in Orchard Hill Contest

There are some are some big romances happening in this small town, thanks to matchmakers Pansy Parker and Misty Green. Each believes she's the best matchmaker Orchard Hill has ever seen. To decide once and for all who's really the best, Pansy and Misty agree to a matchmaking contest. Whoever makes the most matches in one year wins. From New Year's to Christmas, no heart in town is safe. Spend a year in Orchard Hill and watch the sparks fly!

Visit Orchard Hill: http://karalynnrussell.googlepages.com/orchardhill

Participate in the Orchard Hill Highlights blog trivia contest and win free Orchard Hill books, magnets and calendars.

The contest begins December 10th at Orchard Hill Highllights - http://orchardhill.blogspot.com/

More details available soon!

Holiday Themed Romances

Hello Friends!

Just want to drop a note and let you all know that beginning Nov. 24th -thru- Jan 8th I will be featuring Holiday Themed romances on my personal blog: http://pamswildroseblog.blogspot.com

I'll try and post the upcoming titles and authors here!

Nov. 24th - Cindy K Green - Snow Kissed
Nov. 26th - Susan Lyons - Thanks but No Thanks
Nov. 28th - My Saturday Spotlight is on Margaret Tanner and her book, Shatterd Dreams - this is not a holiday story but a previously scheduled spotlight - the holiday stories will continue on Dec. 1st.

Hope you'll drop by my blog and check out these stories!

Until later....Take care, Be BLESSED and remember.....life is a gift so offer God praise and remember to keep the Holidays holy days!

Pamela S Thibodeaux
"Inspirational with an Edge!" TM

Special Guest - Sandra D Bricker!

Please join White Rose authors in welcoming back Sandra D Bricker with her latest release, Love Finds You in Holiday, Florida!

Sandra D. Bricker has been publishing in both the Christian and general market for years with novels for women and teens, magazine articles and short stories. With 8 novels in print and 5 more slated for publication through 2010, Sandie has carved out a niche for herself as an author of laugh-out-loud comedy for the inspirational market. Sandie was an entertainment publicist in Hollywood for 15+ years for some of daytime television’s hottest stars. When her mother became ill in Florida, she left Los Angeles to provide care … and begin her writing career!

RECOGNITION:

• Love Finds You in Snowball, Arkansas is a 2009 finalist in the inspirational category of The Write Touch Readers’ Awards.
• Love Finds You in Snowball, Arkansas is a 2009 finalist in the inspirational category of The National Readers’ Choice Awards.
• Love Finds You in Snowball, Arkansas is a 2009 finalist in the Inspirational Readers’ Choice Contest.

WEB SITE: For more information, visit the author’s Web site at www.SandraDBricker.com.

BLOGS: Personal blog – http://sandradbricker.blogspot.com

Group blog – http://bestilldevos.blogspot.com

Prologue

Cassie rounded the curve of the street and pulled into the driveway, and there they were!

Those horrible neon pink flamingos, grinning at her from beneath the palm tree in the front yard. Just that morning, she’d deposited them in the trash receptacle, hoping that would be the end of them. Something told her she would never be rid of them.

Oh, what a thought!

As she climbed out of the car and stalked toward them, the horror of it buzzed around her like a swarm of gnats. The picture was a vivid one: Sitting on the back deck in her old age, sipping one of those terrible Southern beverages Zan was always experimenting with, her silver hair standing on end and frizzy from the Florida humidity. And poking out from beneath the dock … or peering at her from around the side of the house … or possibly standing tall in one of the large flowering plants … Those eyes. Those gawking, black eyes, just staring back at her, mocking her with their presence.

Cassie yanked the first one out of the ground where its hard plastic spike anchored it to the front yard, and she tossed it to the grass behind her. Just as she wrapped both hands around the beak of the second one, Zan’s laughter taunted her from across the street.

She turned her head slowly toward him, narrowed her eyes and stared him down, the distance between them bridged by a look her husband had come to know all too well.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Uh-oh sounds like Zan is in a heap of trouble LOL!

Hope you enjoyed this special spotlight!

Until later..... Be Blessed.

Pamela S Thibodeaux

"Inspirational with an Edge!" TM

Thankfulness

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite times of the year. I love looking back and counting my blessings. One of those blessings for me is to be able to write for White Rose Publishing. Nicola Martinez, our Editor-in-Chief, Personnel Director, Public Relations and Marketing gal has done a wonderful job since acquiring this new venture. She has brought a fresh breeze to this company.

One such way is how she's willing to try new things. I don't know if you've had the chance to visit Whiterosepublishing.com lately, but there are some beautiful gift sets now available...and just in time for those on your Christmas list. If your looking to give a special something--to a special someone--you won't want to miss out on this opportunity.

What is something that you're thankful for or someway that you've seen God at work in your life this year? We'd love to hear your comments!

The Ins and Outs of Snow

When I first started writing my story—Snow Kissed—I knew I needed some insight about SNOW from my friends who actually lived in the snow. I, myself, am a California girl recently transplanted in North Carolina. I’d visited snow, gone skiing, spent weekends in the mountains all while living in CA. Now in NC, we have the occasional snow fall which usually melts that same hour or within a day or two. But living with snow day in and day out all winter long, I knew nothing about. So I tapped into the knowledge of my good friend and critique partner who is a Wisconsin native. Here is just a part of what she told me are the ‘Ins and Outs’ of Snow.

Good Things

1. Snow is beautiful. Especially new fallen snow that has yet to be disturbed.
2. Winter sports and activities are great – skiing, sledding, ice skating, snow mobiling, snow shoeing and ice fishing to name a few.
3. It’s nice to look out at the snow from your cozy, warm house as you are curled up under an afghan with a good book.
4. Winter clothes are so cozy and cuddly (not to mention more forgiving of figure flaws than most summer clothes.)
5. Hot chocolate with whipped cream when you come in from the cold.
6. No road construction!
7. Snow days! Hurray for no school.

Bad Things

1. Dirty snow and slush are gross.
2. Shoveling the driveway and digging out cars after a snowstorm.
3. We miss gardening, picnicking and swimming outside.
4. It’s not nice when it’s twenty degrees below zero (before factoring in the wind chill) and your car battery is dead from the cold.
5. It’s a pain to have to put on so many extra clothes – coat, hat, mittens, scarf and boots – just to walk to the end of the driveway and get the mail. If you have kids, add snow pants as well to their outdoor ensemble.
6. Cold floors! Especially if you don’t have carpeting in your bedroom.
7. Bad driving conditions. Icy roads can send cars spinning into the ditch and drifts of snow can trap cars in them.

Do you have anything to add about snow? Love it—Hate it?

Here is an excerpt from my story, Snow Kissed, with my snow-loving heroine and the hero who hates it.

As soon as Muriel left, Logan’s mood seemed to shift from irritated to agreeable. His body language became much more relaxed with his hardened chin softening and a real smile moving onto his face. “So, what are you up to this afternoon?”

Before Holly’s expression could waver into a frown, she forced a smile. “I…I’m off for a snow walk.” Possibly my last in Meriden.

“That is what’s so stupid about this…this whole Winter Wonderland Carnival. There’s no snow!” He raised both his hands in aggravation.

“There might not be any right now, but there will be.”

“How do you know? There’s no snow expected. Cold, but no snow.”

“There’ll be snow tonight.” She stepped close to him, laying her hand in the crook of his arm. The contact brought a swirl of pleasure moving around inside her stomach—more so than normal. It must be from all the excitement of her news—nothing more than that.

“Just breathe,” she whispered to him, as she slowly took in a deep whiff. “You smell that?”

He shook his head. “What? Burgers from down the street?”

“No.” She laughed; he could be so dense sometimes. “It’s the first snowfall.” She inhaled another intoxicating aroma of winter air. “It’s coming.”

“And what’s so good about snow? It’s just annoying and inconvenient.” He pulled his arm away and folded them across his lean frame.

“Snow is beautiful…magical.” Her voice came out breathy with the idea of snow making her feel all tingly.

“It’s cold, wet stuff that falls from the sky.”

“Then there are the wonderful clothes: hats, scarves, gloves…”

“…galoshes, wool socks,” he countered.

She continued, not to be undone by his cynicism. “Fresh baked cookies, hot apple cider, hot cocoa, hot toddies…what is a hot toddy?”

He nearly laughed at her, a cute smile building in the corner of his mouth as he shook his head. “A hot alcoholic drink. You want to come in for some coffee? I just made a pot.”

She shook her head and took in a deep breath before releasing it. “No, remember I’m off to take my snow walk through Meriden.” She tilted her head up at him. “I’ll be at the carnival tonight, working the booth for the church. Of course, you wouldn’t dare show your face there, now would you?”

Pausing, she made a concerted effort to memorize his face, including his subtly uneven eyebrows. This was probably one of the last times they’d be together. A breath hitched in her throat at the thought of never seeing Logan again. They’d shared so many memories over the years: spring picnics at the lake, midnight movies, and disastrous cooking adventures. Life wouldn’t be the same without him.

She should tell him she was leaving town for good. This was the perfect moment. Maybe he would respond by telling her she should stay—stay because he loved her too much to let her go. In my dreams.

“Goodbye, Logan,” was all she could bring herself to say. Lord, help me. It was easier than being disappointed.

Snow Kiss is available now at White Rose Publishing. Feel free to stop by and visit me at my website.

Snow Kissed ~ Released

Hope everyone is having a great Friday. I’ve had a lot going on—like TWO RELEASES! And one of them comes out today. SNOW KISSED!

To celebrate I’m over at the Author Roast and Toast and plan to give away a copy of the book. Hope you can come by. http://authorroastandtoast.blogspot.com/

Blurb:

Today is one of those days Logan Reilly wished he’d stayed in bed. Not only does he have to deal with the annoying Winter Wonderland Carnival but his close friend, that whimsical lover of snow, Holly Armstrong, is leaving town forever. The question is why didn’t she tell him and why today, of all days, does he realize she might be more than a friend?

Holly can no longer stay in town knowing the man she loves only sees her as a friend. It’s time to move on; besides she has other career prospects.

As the carnival unfolds, watch God work in amazing ways. Can He change Holly’s mind and make her stay? Can He help Logan see beyond the friendship? Only time can tell.

Snow Kissed is Available Now at White Rose Publishing

Cup of Joe...in print!

What a cute dog on that book cover!

Today was an exciting day around my house. I came home and found four huge boxes on my front porch. And guess what was in all of them?

Hot-off-the-presses copies of my new book Cup of Joe.

Cup of Joe will officially be released from White Rose Publishing on December 4. I have a book signing scheduled for December 12 at The Foundry coffee shop here in San Antonio. (Cup of Joe...coffee shop...get the connection? I'm clever that way!)

My son, Cameron, came over tonight so we had an impromptu photo shoot. Of course, I wanted my puppy, Bliss, in the photo since she bears a rather striking resemblance to the dog on the cover (what a shocking coincidence). My English Cocker Spaniel, Angel, wanted to climb in my lap so she could be in the picture, so we tried to get them both in. Boy, it's hard enough to get a decent looking picture of me, much less a good photo of all three of us.

Look at our sad attempts...

Um, Angel, what are you looking at?

Look at Angel's glowing eyes. What the heck? Halloween is over.

Oh well. Maybe next time!

Blessings, Teri

Teri Wilson ~ Romancing the pet lover's soul

http://www.teriwilson.net/

Announcing the Grand Prize Drawing Winner...

And now for the very special, exciting announcement~

The winner for the Grand Prize of the Our Cup Runneth Over contest is... Crystal Renfro!


Crystal, you are one blessed woman! Not only have you won eight e-books, but some other prizes as well such as the tea, mug, etc.

Week Seven ~ Our Cup Runneth Over winner announced

Reporting, reporting... the lastest news is just in...

Week seven's winner for Our Cup Runneth over is... Kim W. She has won Sharon Donovan's, The Claddagh Ring!

Congratulations!

Stay tuned for the Grand Prize drawing info...

Grand Prize Drawing Week

Well, today is the day we've all been waiting for... Grand Prize Drawing week for the Our Cup Runneth Over contest. Carol Ann will soon be sending me the winner's name and I'll post it ASAP.

In the mean time, I'd like to share with you a bit more about week 7's featured books...

Sharon Donovan's - The Claddagh Ring

Struggling with her faith after her mother's death, Meghan O'Malley finds comfort in wearing the family Claddagh Ring, believed to be blessed by St. Patrick. When Meghan meets Rork, she finds love, friendship, and loyalty, but before everything comes full circle under God's plan, Meghan must face the biggest challenge of her life.
Rork McGuire is ruggedly handsome, sings Celtic music straight from his soul, and has a dark secret. When he sees Meghan O'Malley, he falls hopelessly in love with her and wants nothing more than to give her his heart.
Will the secret he harbors bring them together-or pull them apart?

PRICE: $2.00 Available now @ whiterosepublishing.com

Cindy Green's- Relationship Rescue

Two blind dates--one was stood up and the other one wishes she was. Have they both been set up in more ways than one?
After Mitchell Regan and Robynn Hartley broke off their engagement, they remained friends and continued attending the same church. They've attempted to keep their unhappiness a secret from each other and everyone else but they can't fool their close friends, Marina and Chad Anthony, who decide enough is enough. It's time for a Relationship Rescue.

PRICE: $2.00 Available now @ whiterosepublishing.com

CHECK BACK SOON FOR THIS WEEK'S WINNER AS WELL AS THE GRANDPRIZE DRAWING INFO!

Week 7 ~ Our Cup Runneth Over

I’d like to give a huge thank you to Carol Ann Erhardt, our fall contest coordinator. Without her efforts, this would not have been possible. Thank you too, for all the other authors who have been working behind the scenes to make this contest a success!

Week six winner is…Joy Isley! She has won a copy of JOSHUA'S HOPE.

Week 7 websites to explore:

http://sharondonovan.blogspot.com/

http://cindykgreen.blogspot.com/e-mail

e-mail the places you found them to Carol Ann @ carolann.erhardt@gmail.com (Please place in the subject line WRiB Contest.) to enter to win this weeks giveaway.


Featured books from week 6, Our Cup Runneth Over contest:

Carla Rossi
It Happened One Hurricane When Pittsburgh native Amber Kensington moves to the Texas Gulf coast to take a job, hurricane season is the last thing on her mind. That is until a massive storm named Ike appears, destined to make a direct hit just miles from her apartment. Evacuation is the answer, but what happens when your car won’t cooperate?
Alex Clarke has seen his share of tropical weather, but it never gets any easier. A childhood experience with lightning has left him fearful of storms. Still, his greatest desire is to participate in his church’s outreach program and assist hurricane victims. Now he’s discovered his new neighbor is stranded. Can he convince her to go with him? And can Amber and Alex find God’s comfort and healing despite the raging storm?

AVAILABLE for $2.00 @ whiterosepublishing.com

Carol Ann Erhardt
Joshua’s Hope : Hope Courtland escaped her marriage to save her life. Her only regret is leaving her four-year-old stepson, Joshua, behind. Though she wants custody, no attorney is willing to tackle her ex-husband in a custody battle. Hope's faith begins to falter. She learns that Joshua is paying the consequences for her freedom, and in an act of desperation, she kidnaps him. Suddenly, she becomes a suspect in her ex-husband's murder.
Zack Stone is content to be sheriff of Pine Cove, Tennessee, where the worst conflict he deals with is handing out speeding tickets. Though his faith is strong, he struggles with issues of forgiveness surrounding his wife's death. When he rescues Hope in a rainstorm, the last thing he expects is to find a woman who stirs his heart. Being a small town sheriff shouldn't involve kidnapping and murder, but Zack can't turn his back on Hope and the little boy she loves.

AVAILABLE for $6.00 @ whiterosepublishing.com

Finally, if you happen to be one of the folks who have won though out the previous weeks, would you consider leaving a comment or two about the book you read? I know it would mean a lot to the author(s)!

Week 6 ~ Our Cup Runneth Over contest

And this weeks winner of Smuggler of the Heart is... Karen Haas.
Congratualtions! Your e-book will be arriving in your in-box shortly. :)

Details for this week is listed below

~ Week 5 featured books were, Nicola Beaumont's The Lighthouse
DANGEROUS LIAISON...
Rachel is in love with her best friend, but when Malachi doesn't seem interested, she turns to an international stranger whom she meets on the internet. At first, conversation is just a pastime, but soon, romantic fantasies form in her mind. Why not consider a man who travels across an ocean to meet her-a man who makes her feel wanted? After all, Malachi might as well be a world away-even if his concern does seem genuine when he warns her about the intriguing Frenchman.
RESCUE ON THE WAY...
Malachi has sworn not to interfere in Rachel's relationship, but he's in love with the head-strong woman who is determined to continue her budding romance...Yet, Malachi senses something isn't right about the playboy who has suddenly consumed Rachel's time, so he vows to save her from the stranger-and herself-even if it means losing her forever.

Price: $4.50 Available now @ whiterosepublishing.com

--

Forever From Paris by Nicola Beaumont's

The Desire of her heart...
Finally, a man who doesn't think Marie is a bumbling fool for not being able to articulate her thoughts. Kind, thoughtful, attentive...handsome: He's definitely the answer to her prayer for a devoted husband.
A promise of forever...
Observant, funny, shy...gorgeous: Martin is tempted by the thought of a lifetime with Marie, but he must put aside his desire, for his heart is not free to love another woman.
Can the prayer for a husband and the prayer of a wife, heal hearts and craft a happily-ever-after for two unsuspecting strangers?
Price: $2.00
--
Smuggler of the Heart by JoAnn Carter
Disheartened and tired, Samantha Warren returns to Vermont during the winter break. Her passion for history rekindles after finding an old smuggler?s chest hidden in her grandparents' attic.
Will she be able to return to New Jersey without her heart being smuggled like the chest once was? Or is it already too late?

Price: $2.00 Available now @ whiterosepublishing.com

Details for week 6:

There are two web-sites to visit and they are~
http://authorcarlarossi.blogspot.com/
http://www.carolannerhardt.com/

By hunting for the WHITE ROSE MUG on these sites, and sending where you found them to carolann.erhardt@gmail.com (Please place in the subject line WRiB Contest)
you’ll be eligible to win either, It Happened One Hurricane or Joshua’s Hope. (Winner will be announced 10/24 /09) You'll also be entered into our GRAND PRIZE drawing which will be held on week 7. This consists of seven e-books, a box of White Rose Organic tea, your very own beautiful White Rose mug, and a little basket of Arbonne skin care products.

Thank you to the following authors who have donated copies of their books/or other prizes to make this contest possible:
Pamela Thibodeaux, E.A. West, Karen Cogan, Cami Checketts, Janelle Ashley, Wendy Davy, Diane Miley, Sandy Wickersham-McWhorter, Teri Wilson, JoAnn Carter, Nicola Beaumont, Carla Rossi, Carol Ann Erhardt, Sharon Donovan, Cindy Green, and Vicki Caine.

Hint for Week 5 ~ Our Cup Runneth Over Contest

For those who are having trouble finding Nicola Beaumont's beautiful cup, here's a hint:

Think books, reviews, and lighthouse.

Good luck!

Carol Ann Erhardt, contest coordinator
www.carolannerhardt.com

Week 5 ~ Our Cup Runneth Over contest

Week 5
This week there are three web-sites to hunt through for OUR CUP RUNNETH OVER contest. They are:

http://www.teriwilson.net/

http://home.comcast.net/~jo.glenncarter/site/

http://inicola.net/

Find the White Rose Mug on their sites, and e-mail the author’s name and what color their mug is to carolann.erhardt@gmail.com (with WRIB contest in the subject box) and you’ll be signed up to win either Smuggler of the Heart, The Lighthouse, or Forever From Paris. Not only that, but your name will be entered in the grand-prize drawing.

ANNOUNCING WEEK 4 WINNER: Congratulations, Abi Buening! You’ve won a copy of Cottonwood Place.

More information on last week’s books:

Cottonwood Place by Sandy Wickersham-McWhorter

"Where do you go when there's no place left to go? If you've been everywhere and done everything and aren't satisfied, come discover the mysteries of Cottonwood Place Bed and Breakfast Inn and the captivating American Southwest." Cottonwood Place Brochure
Megan MacCloud knows before meeting him that Ian Hunter is the neediest of the many troubled guests her inn has helped. Estranged from God, neither she nor Ian believe that He can bring them the harmony and love they crave. Ian says he couldn't resist driving across the country to her after her face on a brochure "hypnotized" him. Because of past abuse, her attraction to him is dashed when she learns he drinks. She resists loving Ian, but her family and almost-human pets frustratingly bond with him immediately, proving he's good. Megan, her Grandma, and pets resolve to help Ian stop drinking and be a doctor again. He helps solve major problems with guests and saves several lives as Megan and her mysterious, Navajo-and-White family show him religious and lifestyle philosophies that are foreign to him, yet truly American. When Megan's kidnapped by a guest for unknown reasons, Grandma says that to find Megan and have the life with her that he dreamed of, Ian must first "find himself." What does that mean? Can God use Megan's family, their Navajo ceremonies, and the police to find Megan and help her and Ian "walk in beauty" before she's lost forever?

PRICE: $6.00 Available now @ Whiterosepublishing.com
--

Alvarado Gold by Vicki Caine

As the hot, oppressive Texas heat takes the breath from her lungs, Addie Brown stands at her grandfather's grave. Deep within her, she senses her anchor to family is gone. She looks across the freshly dug chasm at three of her four cousins. Nothing more than smiling faces on Christmas cards and vacation photos, she remembers once when they were close but something happened.
Snapping her back to reality, the minister reads, To everything there is a season and a time to every purpose under heaven. She wonders when will be my time? But Addie has bargained with God and lost and she feels she can never share her secret with anyone. But through an unusual turn of events, she realizes there is a truth and meaning to the passage from Ecclesiastes that begins to drive her life.

PRICE: $6.00 Available now @ Whiterosepublishing.com

Week 4 ~ Our Cup Runneth Over Contest

Wow, it seems like we just started our contest, but here we are with week four’s details. So, here’s the latest scoop~ (Drum roll please….) The winner of Lilacs for Laura is Beverly Gordon. Congratulations!

Last weeks books were…

Night Waves by Wendy Davy
Newspaper reporter, Cali Stevens, boldly walks into Sheriff Nick Justice’s office with one goal in mind: To find her best friend who disappeared while vacationing. When the no-nonsense sheriff refuses to give her details of the investigation, Cali takes matters into her own hands and starts her own investigation. She never intends to fall for the sheriff…or into the clutches of Coral Isle’s first serial kidnapper.
Coral Isle’s recent abductions give Nick Justice enough to worry about without adding any complications into the mix, and his attraction to Cali Stevens is definitely a complication. When Nick encourages Cali to leave the island, she refuses. Now he must manage to find the missing women while keeping Cali and the rest of the women on Coral Isle safe.
Purchase Price $6.00 (whiterosepublishing.com)
--
Lilacs for Laura by Dianne Miley

Laura James loves working in her family's flower shop, but has to ward off advances from her brother-in-law. She distrusts men but cannot deny her attraction when she stumbles into Brett Mitchell. Drawn to one another despite their conflicting goals, Laura longs for a secure future in her Ohio hometown, while Brett yearns for adventure and an escape from his abusive father. When he lands a NASCAR job in North Carolina, Laura fears she will never see him again. Devastated, she withdraws just when she needs help most. Her brother-in-law is murdered and all evidence points to Laura. Brett knows members of her family, as well as the town gossip share motive and opportunity. Will he return to help clear her? Who will reveal the killer in a shocking twist? And will Laura ever find security in love?
Purchase Price $6.00 (whiterosepublishing.com)
--
The following addresses are where you need to hunt this week for a chance to win either Alvarado Gold or Cottonwood Place plus be entered to win the chance to win the grand prize! I guess by this point, you know what you need to do. (If you don’t, the post below explains the rules.)

http://victoriapitts-caine.blogspot.com/
http://www.sandywick.com/

Have fun!

Buddy Walk 2009

Today my daughter Trinity (pictured above), her sister Stephanie and Steph's friend Nadia participated in the 2009 Buddy Walk. Here's a little about the walk, taken from the official Buddy Walk site:

The Buddy Walk® was established in 1995 by the National Down Syndrome Society to celebrate Down Syndrome Awareness Month in October and to promote acceptance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome. Today, the Buddy Walk® program is supported nationally by NDSS and organized at the local level by parent support groups, schools and other organizations and individuals.

Over the past fourteen years, the Buddy Walk® program has grown from 17 walks to more than 280 expected in 2009 across the country and around the world. Last year alone, 250,000 people participated in a Buddy Walk®! They raised $10.5 million to benefit national education, research and advocacy initiatives, as well as local programs. These funds enable NDSS and local groups to offer services that support and enhance the quality of life for individuals with Down syndrome and their families.

The Buddy Walk® is a one-mile walk in which anyone can participate without special training. It is a wonderful, heart-warming event that celebrates the many abilities and accomplishments of people with Down syndrome.


No one is happy to learn that their child has a disability. But over the years, I have met many wonderful people because of my daughter Trinity. I've met wise and wonderful parents, dedicated medical professionals, tireless therapists, and caring teachers and aides. I am very thankful for all of these people.

Some of the most important have been the teachers and therapists in the Birth to Three program. That's why I chose to highlight that program in my upcoming release from 5 Star Press, The Prodigal Father. In this story you will meet Risa, the almost three year old daughter of the heroine. Risa has Down syndrome and single mom Beth has come to depend on the support of the professionals that work with Risa through this program. When Risa turns three she will no longer be eligible for the program and Beth is feeling a lot of anxiety about the future. This is completely and totally based on how I felt when Trinity was at this point.

Luckily there is help beyond that program! The National Down Syndrome Society and events like Buddy Walk are proof of that.

Week Three ~ Our Cup Runneth Over Contest

Congratulations… Lynn Fowlston

She won, The Broken Path by Cami Checketts
--
Want to join in the fun of the White Rose Author’s Fall promotion, Our Cup Runneth Over, but are not sure how? Look at the post dated September, 11th and you’ll find all the details there.

Here’s "week three" websites to peek at:
http://www.wendydavy.com/
www.diannemiley.com

Find the White Rose Mug on their sites, and e-mail the author’s name and what color their mug is to carolann.erhardt@gmail.com (with WRIB contest in the subject box) and you’ll be signed up to win either Night Waves or Lilacs for Laura. Not only that, but your name will be entered in the grand-prize drawing.

--
Want to read a book by the author’s you learned about last week? Below you’ll find a small blurb for their featured book and how much it costs to purchase at whiterosepublishing.com.

Cami Checketts – The Broken Path

Involved in a debilitating accident at age six, Ethan Searle believes women eye him with a mixture of pity and disdain. He’s tried love before. He won’t again.Autumn Reader escaped her abusive marriage with her daughter, a stack of debt, and fear. Autumn’s precocious two-year old becomes enraptured by Ethan. Autumn is on the path to following her daughter’s example when her ex-husband reappears.

Purchase for $6.00


Janelle Ashley – Wildflowers in Bloom

Barton Remington has always thought of his best friend’s little sister as an untamed dirty-faced tomboy, but after a six year absence he returns home to find this little wildflower all grown up and much too appealing for her own good.
Poppy Mandelville is merely a merchant’s daughter, so when Barton returns from the war, and she discovers her childish infatuation has bloomed into love, she must put aside all hope of a match with the future Earl of Birmingham…or must she?
Purchase for $2.00

On behalf of all the participating authors, thank you for your support!

Free novella at White Rose Publishing

Last week my serialized novella, Once Upon a Collar, launched at the White Rose Publishing reader's yahoo group. This fun read is available FREE for anyone who joins the group! We've been having a great time over there reading the first chapter and answering discussion questions. Come join us at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WhiteRosePublishing/ and get in on the fun.

Emilie Bonner, the heroine of Once Upon a Collar, is an artist who creates special wedding cake toppers. She's less than happy when she's forced to create a topper with a groom dressed in red pants as a cartoon-inspired Prince Charming. Since she's a dog lover, I thought I'd share a mini-gallery of wedding cake toppers she might find more fun.

 

 

 

Aren't these a riot? I never knew such things existed until I wrote this novella. Shhh. Don't tell Emilie. She's supposed to be working on something more like this...

Once Upon a Collar, by Teri Wilson. Available for FREE from White Rose Publishing.

Whenever Emilie Bonner meets a man, she can’t help but imagine what he would look like on top of a wedding cake. Since she spends most of her waking hours designing wedding cake toppers, it’s somewhat of an occupational hazard. Somewhere along the way--perhaps after the first two hundred or so--hand-crafted bridegrooms, Emilie begins to doubt she’ll ever find her own happily-ever-after.

Then, after a mysterious encounter with a woman who could be an angel, Emilie meets a handsome stranger at the dog park. At first, it seems as though Matt, with his big dopey dog and irrepressible charm, is the Prince Charming she’s been waiting for. Not only is he a sweetheart, but he’d look great on top of a wedding cake.

Soon, however, she discovers something about him that changes everything and leaves her wondering…does God believe in fairy tales?

For more information, visit www.teriwilson.net.

Blessings, Teri