Love Inspired Author Celebrate Mothers

Margaret Daley

My mother was such an inspiration to me and important to whom I am today.

The picture is four generations in the Daley family.

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Sandra Orchard

 Here’s a pic of my Mom and eldest daughter from many, many years ago, since my daughter now has a daughter of her own.

We lost Mom to cancer soon after and still miss her very much. She was an amazing woman whose patient endurance continues to be a true inspiration.

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Terri Reed

Here is my mom and me on my wedding day. This is one of my favorite pictures of us together.

 

My mom sacrificed a lot for me as I was growing up. Of course as a kid/teen/young adult I didn't see it. Now I do. Currently my mom lives with my younger brother, which is where she wants to be. She has an inoperable brain tumor. Her speech and her memories have been effected as well as her personality. But she's being well cared for and is content for the most part. Happy Mother's day. Remember to tell your mom, grandmothers, aunts, friends who are mothers that they are special and loved. 

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Merrillee Whren

Every day and on Mother’s Day especially, I miss my mother who passed away over thirty years ago, but I know part of her lives on in my beautiful daughters and granddaughters.
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Pamela Tracy

This is not the mother who gave me life.
This is Rosemary Tracy the mother who made me her life.
Mom and me, Easter, I was six

My mother's been gone for almost twenty years.
Every day I wish for the chance to tell her what a great mom she was,
and how I wish I'd appreciated her more.

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Sherri Shackleford

Motherhood

It's the toughest job you'll ever love.

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Leann Harris

Here's 4 generations of my family.

 Of course, my mom is going to go crazy. I don't look so hot with my perm.
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Missy Tippens 

Happy Mother's Day to my wonderful mother!

 Here's a photo of me with my own children. I'm so thankful to be their mom! They are the best part of me.

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Teri Wilson

This is me with my son Cameron, at his college graduation last year,
which fell on Mother's Day.

 I love this boy so much!

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Deb Kastner

 I couldn't find a single photo of me and my girls, and I don't think I've ever had one of my mother, which I thoroughly intend to rectify immediately.

I'm still celebrating Mother's Day...I'm just a little bit older. ;)

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Jean C. Gordon

Remembering my mom, Mary Jean Chelikowsky, for her love of children and unfailing ability to see the best in everyone.

Excuse the disheveled/bad pix. It's the only one I could find with both of us. Apparently, Mom and I were always the ones taking the pictures.

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Debra Clopton 

Happy Mothers Day mom!

 Love you always. 

FEATURED BOOK AND INTERVIEW: Her Unlikely Cowboy by Debra Clopton

A New Life 

Suzie Kent will do anything for her troubled teen son. Even if it means turning to her late husband's best friend for help. Rancher Tucker McDermott is convinced that the fresh air and hard work of Sunrise Ranch will do Abe and Suzie a world of good. But Suzie's not so sure that the man she blames for her husband's death knows best. Soon, spending time with the strong, handsome cowboy revives Suzie's spirits—and her heart. Can they heal their past sorrows and build a future as a family together?

How exciting to have Morgan McDermott the hero from HER UNFORGETTABLE COWBOY written by Debra Clopton a May 2013 release from Love Inspired Romance. Book 1 of her new Cowboys of Sunrise Ranch Series.

1.     Morgan tell me the most interesting thing about you.

I help run Sunrise Ranch, it’s our families 10,000 acre working cattle ranch and also home to 16 foster boys at a time. I love it. The boys keep us on our toes though. 

2.     What do you do for fun? With 16 boys ranging from 7 to 18 we have every kind of fun you can imagine. From seeing who can flip a calf the quickest to crazy fishing tournaments.

3.     What do you put off doing because you dread it? Looking for love…it hasn’t worked out so well for me in the past. I’ve gotten used to being alone. I’ll probably stay single. Getting practically left at the altar twice will do that to a man.

4.     What are you afraid of most in life? Letting someone get close to me again.

5.     What is the most important thing to you? Being a good role model for these boys and carrying on my mother’s legacy (this ranch was her dream before she passed away.)

6.     Do you read books? If so, what is your favorite type of book? I enjoy a good mystery.

7.     If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? I don’t really know—I guess I’d have a tougher heart if that were possible.

8.     Do you have a pet? If so, what is it and why that pet? My horse. He’s useful and a must have in the ranch business. I love horses and especially love foaling season. The boys hear at the ranch enjoy seeing the new foals running around too.

9.     If you could travel back in time, where would you go and why? I’d go back to the day Jolie handed me her engagement ring and chose her career as a competitive kayaker over life with me on the ranch. I’d try to figure out how to stop her from leaving.

Thursday Sisterhood with Pamela Tracy

Family Status: Husband (grumpy plumber; good kisser - age 49) Son (hates homework; loves legos - now age 9) Cat (seven toes; eats too much - age 3)

What Is Your Favorite Beverage: Diet Dr. Pepper 

What Is Your Favorite Food: Shrimp Fajitas

What Is Your Favorite Thing to do During Free Time: Free time?  What is that?  LOL, once work, little league, homework, and writing are out of the way, I most like to read. 

Who Has Been the Most Influential Person in Your Life: 

How do you answer something like this?  My life’s not over.  It’s a timeline answer... First both my parents, who adopted me when I was four days old and never considered me anything but theirs. (That's my dad to the left.  You can't tell by the picture, but he's wrapped around my little finger) Then, it was my high school best friend Patty McCoy who explored with me, cried with me, got in trouble with me, and is forever the friend of my heart. As a young adult, it was fellow teacher and mentor Elizabeth Weed. In the writing world, it's best friend Harlequin American author Cathy McDavid (There we are, at a booksigning, all blurry to the right).  Now it is my husband Donald Osback (standing next to me below) and my son, who both teach me patience and that love is glue with occasional bubbles.  And throughout time, Jesus.    

First Book You Fell in Love With: The Betsy Books by Carolyn Haywood

A Book You Wish You’d Written: The House at Riverton by Kate Morton

First Book Published: It Only Takes A Spark (Barbour Heartsong) 1999.

Most Recent Book: What Janie Saw (Harlequin Heartwarming) 2014 - it released just last week!  (To win a copy, click here Heartwarming Contest ) 

Out Next: Holiday Homecoming (Harlequin Heartwarming) November 2014 

How Many Have You Written:  Twenty-four published, Five under contract 

What Do You Know Now That You Wish You’d Known Then: To stop thinking that somewhere around the bend is more free time LOL

What is Your Favorite Bible Story: The Prodigal Son 

What is Your Favorite Bible Verse: Matthew 2:28 “A voice is hear in Ramah, weeping and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children and refusing to be comforted because they are no more.”  This verse has always spoken to me because it showed me how much emotion could be taken down to just one sentence.  One sentence.  Wow

 hat is Your Favorite Hymn: (Please Click)  The Greatest Command

What is an Ongoing Prayer Request You Have: That my husband becomes a believer

ACTING LIKE A BIG NAME AUTHOR

As you read my title, you may think I'm going to act a bit too big for my britches, but, well, maybe not.
I just spent a month in Florida. It was a dream vacation for my husband and me, and we did what we set out to do. 

On some of our evening walks, we enjoyed things like this.

 
I loved it, and the Lord really spoke to me through my time there. But that's a story for another time.
This time, I acted like a big name writer. 
You see, the day before I left, my editor asked for some revisions for Faith in the Warrior, my LIH out next year. What was to be done was simple enough, but it would also mean going through the whole manuscript. So I did what any big name writer would do. I packed up my laptop and promised myself I would do a little each day.
Big name writers aren't big name writers for no reason at all. They're not like Castle on TV, who is rarely seen writing. Big name writers put the keesters in the chair and work every day.

This isn't me. It's hubs checking sports, but this is where I wrote.

But, hey, I was in Florida. I did take some time off, but while my husband explored the neighbourhood where we were staying, I edited about 10 pages a day. As a result, I got through my manuscript and even had time to start editing another manuscript.
There's a lesson in this, Do you want something? Do you have a big project? You need discipline because it will probably take some time. Chip away at it. Make up a plan. Get rest and enjoy yourself. Celebrate your successes.
 

What better way to celebrate than a dip into the pool after work?

Then you can act like a big name whatever you are. Because success comes only after hard work and planning and just doing it.
The very best wishes for your success today!

Barbara Phinney tries to write each day, and as a result is pleased to say that her latest LIH is out in August. Look for Protected by the Warrior soon!

Hi Everyone, Debra Clopton here and I'm running late this morning! So sorry about that. 

I am so glad summer is here yesterday was a great day with my 3 tiny granddaugthers playing in the water and I got sidetracked by that and didn't get my blog written. But now I'm here and wanted to let you all know about my latest book HER UNLIKELY HERO. It is the 3rd book in the Cowboys of Sunrise Ranch and this series has really been popular with readers. This particular story is very touching and deals with fun with the boys of the ranch that is a foster home for them but also Tucker an ex marine who blames himself for his buddies death. His buddies wife also blames him, though it really wasn't his fault. But both of them are dealing with it while trying to help her son. I loved writing this story of healing and redemption. It was inspired by a our neighbors son, a Marine who gave his life for his fellow Marines. It was such a reminder of the brave men and women who protect our country. I hope you'll enjoy this HER UNLIKELY COWBOY. 

I also wanted to let you know that last month I released my first new Mule Hollow book in 2 years. I released it as an indy book and its on sale right now on Amazon and BN for .99 cents! If you loved Mule Hollow you'll love HER MULE HOLLOW COWBOY 

Cliff saw a woman in need and stepped in—because Maddie was too stubborn to ask… 

Cowgirl Maddie Rose has never belonged anywhere but she’s just inherited part of New Horizon Ranch—along with her partners, four handsome, extremely capable cowboys… Maddie’s trying to adjust to her new life and her new partners she’s still unable to believe she’s an owner of this fabulous ranch. Not sure why she was included, she’s out to prove herself worthy of the honor of the inheritance. Loving her new life in the small Texas town of Mule Hollow, she’s determined that, for the first time in her life, she’s going to finally belong somewhere… 

Professional Bull Rider Cliff Masterson has been chasing his dreams for years—or has he been running from his past? He’s searching for more in life and ready to dig in his spurs and put down roots deep in the heart of Texas. Rescuing a beautiful cowgirl from being trampled by a bull has him dreaming of romance, home and hearth. 

But Maddie’s had enough people in her life leave and she’s not willing to risk her heart on him—Sparks fly as he’s determined to prove to the feisty cowgirl that the only think he’s chasing now is wedding bells with her… 

Can the Matchmakin’ Posse of Mule Hollow help this couple find their happily ever after? 

A New Life 

Suzie Kent will do anything for her troubled teen son. Even if it means turning to her late husband's best friend for help. Rancher Tucker McDermott is convinced that the fresh air and hard work of Sunrise Ranch will do Abe and Suzie a world of good. But Suzie's not so sure that the man she blames for her husband's death knows best. Soon, spending time with the strong, handsome cowboy revives Suzie's spirits—and her heart. Can they heal their past sorrows and build a future as a family together?

Until next time happy reading and be blessed. 

Please drop by my website and sign up for my newsletter and contest and also check out my blog on being interviewed by Postcards Magazine! http://www.debraclopton.com 

Bodyguard Reunion Interview

Today we're welcoming Chloe Howard, the heroine of Bodyguard Reunion by Margaret Daley, May 2014, Love Inspired Suspense. 

Wow, you've just had quite an adventure.   

1.  Tell us a little about yourself and how you came to be in the midst of such suspense. 

I'm a bodyguard with Guardians, Inc., and I was hired to protect Mary and Paul Zimmerman with another bodyguard to help me. What I didn't know was that I used to date the other bodyguard, and we didn't end on a good note.

2.  So, during the book you met T.J. Davenport.  Tell us a bit about him.  What was your first impression?  When did you know it was love?  

My first impression when I discovered he was the other bodyguard protecting the Paul and Mary Zimmerman was anger. I didn't see how we could work together when he left me years before. I don't think I ever fell out of love with T.J.

3.  What strengths/skills do you have?  What is your greatest weakness? 

I'm a detail person which helps me in my job. I'm observant and dedicated to the people I'm hired to protect. I don't fear too many things. I used to dream of having a family, but fear keeps me from taking the necessary steps to see that happen.     

4.  What scares you? 

Being alone.  

5. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

I've lost my ability to trust in others.

6.  Where are you in your faith at the start of your story? 

I have a strong faith, but I still have lessons to learn, especially trusting the Lord.

7.  Where are you in your faith at the end of the story?

I'm learning to put my control in the Lord's hands, to trust Him. 

8. You've got a scripture at the beginning of the story.  Tell us why this scripture is significant.

"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." Proverbs 3:5-6. The answers to questions 6 and 7 explain the significance of the verse.

9. If you could be a dessert what would you be and why?

French silk pie--I love chocolate and pies.

FEATURED BOOK:Bodyguard Reunion by Margaret Daley

REUNIONS CAN BE DEADLY 

Teaming up with an old flame is not what bodyguard Chloe Howard would call a smart move. Nine years ago Chloe and T. J. Davenport worked on a case together, fell in love, then went their separate ways. Now she's reunited with the fearless bodyguard to protect a controversial couple on a book tour through Texas. And the reunion reminds Chloe of dreams best forgotten. She knows she has to keep her emotions in check so their clients' protection remains their top priority. Protection that is the only thing keeping them from falling prey to a stalker's deadly schemes.

Thursday Sisterhood with Lacy Williams

Family Status: married; three kids under age 5! 

What Is Your Favorite Beverage: chocolate milkshake. Little known tidbit: I don't like any kind of carbonated beverage. I don't like the taste of the carbonation and never have!

What Is Your Favorite Food: I love a good steak, also love seafood and Italian and Mexican... yeah, I love to eat. It's not as much fun now that I've got three kids behind me and the metabolism I had in my twenties is loooong gone!

What Is Your Favorite Thing to do During Free Time: Read. I have so little free time right now between the kids and writing that I haven't been reading as much as I want to. 

Who Has Been the Most Influential Person in Your Life: Probably my dad. He's been the most courageous example and I'm so proud of him!

First Book You Fell in Love With: Anne of Green Gables. I read it when I was about 10 and had the chicken pox. I had a three-book omnibus (thank you, Grandma!) and read through the whole thing while stuck in bed and itchy.

A Book You Wish You’d Written: I have a lot still percolating. So many ideas and so little time... The main one I want to write is a teenage cowboy romance (young adult). Rodeo, baby!

First Book Published: Marrying Miss Marshal, August 2011. A fun story about a woman marshal in the Wild West.

Most Recent Book: Kissed by a Cowboy, self-published in the Inspy Kisses "First Kisses" collection.

Out Next: The Wrangler's Inconvenient Wife (August 2014)

How Many Have You Written: 10+. Enough that I have to sit down and count them. :) 

What Do You Know Now That You Wish You’d Known Then: That writing is a really hard career to do part-time. With the kiddos, part-time is about all I can give to it, and there is so much that never gets done... marketing, social media, growing a platform... but at least I get the stories out. :)

What is Your Favorite Bible Story: Ruth and Boaz.

What is Your Favorite Bible Verse: Psalm 27:14

What is Your Favorite Hymn: I love "Blessed Be Your Name". It's newer and contemporary but I love the message. 

What is an Ongoing Prayer Request You Have: My sister, who deals with a chronic illness.

Hump Day Blues

Terri Reed here.  Its Wednesday.  I'm not sure why but this day of the week I tend to feel blue.
As in tired, cranky, needing some chocolate.  I think part of it is the adrenaline from the weekend has worn off by Wednesday but then next weekend doesn't start for another two days.  Not that every weekend is adrenaline filled.  Some weekends are lazy and relaxing which makes Wednesday hard because that laid back, life is good feeling has diminished.  However I remind myself that every day is a day the Lord has made and I WILL be glad in it and rejoice!
So Happy Wednesday everyone!  I'm raising my glass of orange Izzy's in salute to Hump Day.  Its a beautiful 79 degrees here in Oregon.  That is worth rejoicing over!
What's the crazy weather doing in your part of the world?

In case you're missing the snow you can still find my latest suspense
Treacherous Slopes for sale!  http://www.harlequin.com/storeitem.html?iid=50278

Sisters In Crime

Pamela Tracy here, and I love suspense (picture me looking around.  You did know that Tuesday on the Craftie site was Suspense day?) 

This past Saturday, I spoke at an all-day Sisters in Crime workshop at our main library.  The day was called Nuts & Bolts: So You Want to Write Crime Fiction. 

My topic was “Romancing Your Crime: Spicing Up Your Story”. Yup, I'm the lone straight romance writer in the group, so I get to be the romance expert.  In real life, I didn't marry until I was 40.  For some reason, I kept making commitment mistakes.  LOL, really.

For the workshop, I was paired with an indy writer Marsha Sandoval.  She handled the suspense elements of a book; I handled the romance.

[oops, won't copy.  Email me at pkayet@aol.com if you'd like a copy]

Pamela Tracy next suspense is What Janie Saw, a May 2014 Harlequin Heartwarming release.