Jax's Artistic Journey...

I was sorting through my endless piles of boxes, over a decade of my life has resided in those dusty things...every now and again I'll come across elementary school report cards, awards and honors, old photos and the occasional love letters. Why did I keep them? I guess for sentimental value. My first love, my first kiss, my first discovery of all that is wonderful in a relationship...but that's not where I'm headed. I came across old pen pal letters. Over the years I've had quite a few pen pals from all over the world from Egypt to the UK and they're all very dear to me. I often wonder why I stopped keeping in touch. Sometimes I want to reach out and find my friends to see how their life has turned out. Vague memories fill my head and most of the reasons why we disconnected was because we allowed our lives to move ahead without notifying our friends, then one day the letters stop coming and the friendship has faded. It's sad to think about how easily it would have been to send a notice of moving...but then I remember what I've learned from each relationship. In the past few months I reconnected with my friends from elementary school and my long lost pen pal from Holland. There are some I still stay in touch with regardless and I like knowing about their lives. I like growing with them because they have shaped the person I am. As I grow older, I look back on my friendships and I realize that it's more important to be a good friend, to have a good friend, and to understand that friends are there for you no matter how much you want to push them away...they'll come knocking on your door and drag you out for drinks, drive you home while you're in a drunken stupor, and throw your ass in bed...I've had a few of those in my time and I won't name names--but I appreciate everything they've done for me and I'd do the same for them without hesitation...

The first romance book I ever read was a Harlequin Presents called SATAN'S MASTER by Carole Mortimer. Fitting title, right? Of course I'd snatch that one up. It was a brilliant, funny, and engaging tale of a grumpy musician, a journalist, and a cat named Satan...you'll have to check it out!

The humble beginnings...
My ex-sister-in-law was a voracious romance reader and she would go to the public library to check out a shopping bag full of Harlequin titles every week. On occasion, I would go with her. Every where we went, she would tote a new book around and when I stayed at her house she would be reading. Out of curiosity, I asked her if it was okay for me to read one. Since there was no sex scenes, she thought it would be fine to pick up this hobby. I think she was trying to make sure I stayed preoccupied. I was in my early teens and I became an instant fan! Reading only lasted a few years, but I remember how engaged I was at the storytelling and the aspect of finding Mr. Right. It was a way to escape when high school studies and life was weighing me down. Perhaps that led to my romantic streak, but all I know was that Harlequin was an indulgence that I could actually afford--because it was FREE at the Public Library! Those days are long gone but I stop into a library every now and then--and the same magic happens. The same rush of excitement fills my soul, makes my heart pound. Since the technology age, too often we forget that we should get a library card and show our own children the same magic. I've seen parents getting their young ones a library card and I've seen the eagerness of having that responsibility. I realize many people buy their books but libraries are a research and place of learning, especially engaging our kids into reading. Of course, I don't have children or pets but if I did have one, I'd endorse this wonderful place....

As a way for Harlequin to celebrate their 60 years in business, they are giving away 16 FREE, ebooks! Yes, that's correct...16! Thanks Katie Reus for giving me an idea for today's blog...

Come and get it HERE....!

I've been watching the news for the last two days and last night it fell below freezing...it had dropped as low as 19 degrees. Most of the school district closed and the roads were slicked, iced over. Glad I'm indoors trying to get writing done. It's easy to get so absorbed that you forget to check to see what the weather is like outside. It's still overcast and the sun is just trying to peek through. I know by the evening it should be in the 40s. We're going to attempt to go out for dinner. I've been stuck indoors for three days now. Most people get stir crazy, I normally get obsessed with work so I forget date and time. Even with the weather being so very cold, Mr. Right made dinner last night! It was delicious and I think he's giving me a run for my money when it comes to culinary skills.

He made Kung Pao Chicken and Shrimp and it tasted exactly like PF Chang's recipe. A girl can get used to this lifestyle...he even did the clean up! I have it easy...shhhh, I shouldn't say that. It's hard not to get comfortable when I've found a man who is so masculine, yet isn't afraid to brave the kitchens to create such scrumptiously delicious meals...and he brings me coffee in bed....sigh....

Believe me, I pinch myself every morning...

I've been thinking hard about a resolution and I've come to the realization that as long as I'm writing full-time, I need some sort of schedule. So, I've been pouring over a spreadsheet to create something that I can follow. Which will include writing time, graphics time, breaks, meals, and clocking out. As a serious writer, I need to be disciplined. Somewhere along the way I got a little off track. Okay, A LOT off track...but I'm rectifying the situation by getting things under control. I'm also planning on attending conferences different than the norm. With the heavy expenses of conferences, something needs to change. I'm still waffling about RWA 2009 in DC. As much as I love the professional conference, I'm a bit burnt out after San Francisco. I may look into smaller conferences like, Moonlight & Magnolias in Atlanta..or flashier ones, like PASIC in NY. I'm also planning to attend Lora Leigh's RAW 2009 (Readers Appreciation Weekend) in WV. I need to start testing the waters, sorta speak, and go to events that will allow me to meet current and new readership. I think a part of being an author is getting to know those people who are buying your products. It's interesting and it gives them a chance to get to know you. It's also a chance to just have fun and be sociable. I'm all about the socializing. Another thing, I have a big agenda for this year and I know that once things kick in, I will be thankful I have a schedule in place. This also means that I need to focus on my body in addition to my mind. I'm getting in shape. I started out yesterday with light yoga and today I'm hitting the gym after I get a few pages in. I'm thinking that if I force myself into a routine, it'll stick. All I can do is try....

2009 is the Year of the Ox and I'm celebrating with a quiet evening at home enjoying great company, food, and plenty of wine!

P.S...I have an interview up at Parker Publishing's Blog...come for a visit!


Here's to the OX!!

The Ox
Born in: 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009


Sturdy, earthy, no-nonsense – that’s the Ox. Affectionate and easy-going, the Ox can show a fierce temper when agitated. He is neat, tidy, quiet and studious, with a great love of his home. Music can be a great love. Family life and a loving partner are high on the Ox’s priorities. A wonderful loyal friend.

Forecast for 2009: The Ox sees overall improvements in his situation during his own year in 2009. The main area of enjoyment will be the interaction with others, either with friends and family or on a more romantic level. A key phrase to bear in mind this year is ‘hold fast’. There may be setbacks and delays in the general run of life, but keep calm and persist and all will be well. There will be an opportunity to study and learn (in common with other signs this year) which should appeal to the Ox and there will be a huge sense of pride with what is achieved. Between May and July there are significant developments on the work front, in particular important talks with a boss or superior, while September to November sees very interesting and delightful romantic encounters!

Interesting Ox Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Aquamarine
Special Flower: Carnation
Best Hours: 1-3 am
Season: Winter
Horoscope Colors: Green, Yellow, Black

**Updated** For your Chinese Zodiac horoscope, go HERE!

I've been cooking regularly for over a week now and it's the most amazing feeling to be in control of something you're creating. I grew up with the the exotic smells of ethnic spices, the aroma of fresh garlic toasted to a golden brown in sesame oil...the crackle and sizzle of the cast iron skillet roaring to life right before mom tossed in the meats and vegetables. Every mouth watering bite was pure heaven. My tastes buds always exploded at the intensity of the flavors within the delicious Vietnamese cuisine. Mom always made enough to feed an army and I was never one to complain. Her natural ability to measure spices without using any measuring tools was a skill she adapted over time. I've been lucky, I must have inherited her methods, including the ability to experiment with different techniques and still manage to cook up something tasty. Thanks mom!

This brings me to my weekend house guest. Mr. Right was shoo-ed off so I could invite my writing pal for a writing weekend. I tried my best to keep her entertained with my culinary skills and bartending abilities. We even managed to squeeze in a local chapter meeting and a bit of gossip. It's nice to have a friend in a new town and equally fun that there's little effort in just hanging out. It was definitely a food fest. I wined and dined her...even made a few pitchers of pina colada! Friday was steak, mashed potato, rice, and a crip green salad. Saturday I attempted to re-create my mom's Vietnamese Spring Roll recipe and also made baked chicken in Kalbi sauce. Of course, I'm a bit rusty at the stove but everything turned out pretty decent. I'm sure that once I spend more time in the kitchen, those rusty cooking skills will be revitalized. The place seems quiet now that NaughtyChick is gone and today I'm spending it being lazy. Mr. Right and I are going to have another date night. We picked up Flash Gordon not long ago..before you groan at the thought of the campy movie, it is fun and brainless and has eye-candy. It's a win-win for both of us...and with plenty of wine flowing, I'm sure it's going to be a great date!

Hope you're spending this Sunday with a bit of R&R...until Monday...I'm officially giving you all a break!

It's that time of year again when Romance Divas will offer FREE READS from their members to say THANK YOU to their readers. This is also a challenge we have to get our members fired up. The participants range from published to unpublished. It's a great way for our readers to sample our material and it proves how courageous the unpublished authors are for getting their stuff out there and read. Kudos for their attempts and I hope it will be just as successful this year!

Believe it or not, I'm participating! Yes, that's true. I'll be doing a steamy short story that will hopefully leave you wanting more... It's my first attempt at first person and it was kind of fun to write. For those who read my blog on a regular basis, you know I'm a hopeless romantic. Since I have Mr. Right, I'm even more mushy and my writing shows it. Don't know if it's a good thing...but I'll find out from my readers, that's for sure. I tend to write stories set in California or some exotic destination. This time around, now that I'm in Texas, I may just start writing about this part of the woods...maybe for next year's E-book Challenge, anyway.

I'm editing this piece as we speak...I think for my devoted readers, you'll get the first read as I'll be putting it up a few days before Valentines. JUST FOR YOU if you happen to be stopping by my blog for a visit....stay tuned.

I realized that 2008 was a rough year for many of us with all the dips and bumps in the road, so naturally we believe strongly that 2009 would be much better...okay, so things haven't started on an upbeat note for some of us, including me. That includes my mother's recent stroke. In that moment when I was told of this happening, I felt helpless being hundreds of miles away--but, I've never allowed myself to hold any pessimism or loss of belief because of these events. Frankly, we can't control something that isn't tangible. I am only relieved that it wasn't more serious...I can say, these life's hiccups put things more into perspective. More than ever.

Let me explain, I have always been a fighter, especially for what I wanted. Yes, I'm a dream chaser and I try to accomplish whatever I set my mind to. Sure I've had people hate my guts without really getting to know me based purely on my drive and enthusiasm to tackle something new. Should I be affected? Of course, but it doesn't change the fact that they've lost out in the chance of getting to know me. Then, there's my deep-seeded stubborn streak. For instance, last night Mr. Right challenged me...oh, no he diii-dn't...yes, he did. I can't remember what led to this but he bet me five dollars that I couldn't count to three hundred, out loud without taking shortcuts. He honestly believed I would quit. Well, let's just say he owes me five dollars. You see there, my stubborn nature can be a blessing and a curse--A blessing because I will always persevere. I'll never give up...a curse because I'm harder on myself, my expectations are higher and I beat myself up pretty good when I disappoint myself. I don't particularly find that a bad trait because my stubborn nature has kept my focus even when I drifted off on different roads in my life's journey...Bottom line: sooner or later, I will reach my destination.

When I was growing up I always dreamed of becoming an artist, whether it was in art, photography, design, writing, etc. I wanted to make an imprint on the world, I wanted to be able to make a difference and I wanted to prove to myself that you can be anything you want to be. Certainly I found my true calling, writing. Whew! Just in the nick of time because I almost gave up my love for the arts for a boring 9-to-5 forever...wouldn't that be sad...there would not be any Jax Cassidy books to enjoy if that were the case. Okay, I'm not selling millions of books yet, but my stories are floating out there and someday, someone will discover them...and that's all that matters to me.

I'm in this for the long haul. I know it may take years before I see the fruits of my labor, but I'm prepared for it. I also know that I am who I am because I grew up in a houseful of siblings. Being next to the youngest, you had to grow a thick skin to get what you want. Of course, what am I getting at? Well, the times may be trying but as writers, you should never let anyone tell you that you won't make it. Those who are truly meant to create will find ways and avenues to reach that goal. When you allow others to dictate and control your dream, you're giving them too much power. You are in control of your own destiny and even when you think the road is long and hard, NEVER GIVE UP. Those that do give up only proves that they really didn't want that dream...


It is hard to fail, but it is worse never to have tried to succeed.
—Theodore Roosevelt

Think about it.

Now what are you going to do about your dream?

Parker Publishing authors will be at the After Dark Lounge from 6:00-8:00 PM EST TONIGHT to answer your questions regarding the latest releases and get to know our readers. To participate go to: www.groups.yahoo.com/group/rb_afterdark/ and subscribe to the yahoogroup to join in the chat!

Authors participating include:

Jax Cassidy
Dyanne Davis
Natalie Dunbar
Seressia Glass
J.M. Jeffries
Abigail McKenley
Bridget Midway
Kelley Nyrae
Lisa G Riley

Here's you chance to ask those personal questions while learning more about their books and win a prize in the process! See you there!

I'm on a mission. I want THOSE abs..the ones to my left, thank you very much.

Over the years I've let myself go...before you all grunt and groan that I'm nuts...just because I'm petite does not mean I'm in shape. I've started to notice that I have no muscle tone. NONE whatsoever. The tight abs I proudly displayed in college are long gone...and all that is left is loose skin appearing in odd places. **Sigh** As of Monday (well, I need time to get all the bad eating habits out of my system by over indulgence)--I'm seriously jumping on a workout regimen which includes eating healthier and a splash of yoga on the side. I'm tired of feeling yucky and I'm sure everyone around me is tired of my complaining so I've decided to grab a buddy and put her on the same diet. She just doesn't know it yet. I'm going to spring it on her when I see her on Friday.

All my friends are on some kind of diet whether it's the Master Cleanse or the prepping for marathons to help them get back on track healthwise, so I figured if they can do it, so can I. After all, I can be committed and my goal is to be happy with the outcome once summer rolls around and I can squeeze back into my teeny tiny black skull bikini without feeling like my gut is hanging over...believe it or not, I do feel like its hanging over...**shudders*

I'll admit, I'm vain. Hey, when you are quickly climbing out of your 30s, it starts to poke at you to do something...I'm not getting any younger and I'm ready to make a life change. Exercise and good eating habits will get you a spiritual clarity that simply re-energizes you. I'm sure being a carnivore will be difficult for me to start cutting out red meat, but I'm looking forward to eating more veggies and fish. Being disciplined is the hard part and between working, deadlines, and life--it isn't going to be easy...GULP...

Truth is, not long ago I was a vegetarian for 9 years and a vegan for 1....so, this should be a cinch...right?

Okay, so I'm all set up in my office work-wise. I've been on the computer playing catch up in between trying to finish unpacking in the living room. I love my space. It's very Zen-like. tranquil, and I've surrounded myself with things that make me happy, like: my first check, all my printed books, my lucky bamboo plant, reference materials, and elegant sculptures that inspires me. Unfortunately, I haven't had time to purchase a bookshelf or paintings to adorn my walls, but once I get them, this place will look top-notch! Ooooh, I shiver deliciously at the thought...

I'm soooo very happy in this space!!!!

I've even got a comfy sofa where my friends can come visit or write with me. It also pulls out like a futon bed if I have a mini-retreat. Did I mention I love my office? I can feel all the positive energy swirling around. I really believe this will be the place I'll write my finest works! It's good to have my own secret retreat and Mr. Right is very supportive about me having this spot..okay, so he grumbles that it's the nicest spot in the place..but deep down, I know he's thrilled. A little envious, but I promised the living room would be his :) -- Just made myself another cup of French Roast a la Mr. Keurig and about to tackle some graphic design work I need to turn in.

UPDATED: Here's the full view of the room. Excuse the wires underneath my workstation, I didn't have a chance to hide them. :) I am also getting a chair to fit the table but haven't had time yet....

Laters...babe!

Let me introduce you to Mr. Keurig...he's the sleekest, most refined, and yummiest machine I've ever owned. When I roll out of bed in the morning, it's a quick one-step process and my coffee is made to order. It makes a perfect cup every day and it includes a little variety that will please even the pickiest at heart! My CopChick introduced it to me last year and I've been in love ever since. Although, I did get the new model so it's a little snazzier and has 3 cup sizes to choose from. No mess, easy to use, and available at any time! No one can replace this baby and I'm walking on clouds the rest of the day...Did I mention he lights up? Yes, he does and he does it so well. Even Mr. Right is impressed. It's a couples thing.

If you don't have one, you're missing out. There are 3 different styles but whichever you can afford...it is a sound investment...otherwise, come over for a visit and I'll have to let you have a go at it.

Now back to getting my mess under control...Happy Writing!

I brought 60+ boxes on my move and the past few days I've been shredding. I've filled up 2 whole trash bags so far and still have a few more boxes to go through. As far as clothes, I have enough to fill a department store. I am trying to clear the living room as fast as I can so when we get the furniture, it will actually look like a nice place. I think packing was less painful than the unpacking. Sigh.

I have watched 5 movies so far and 2 being Nora Roberts book adaptations: Montana Sky and Angels Fall -- they were decent films but if you ask me, Lifetime did a wonderful job with Jane Porter's Flirting with Forty. Just sayin'

I hear Ms. Roberts opened a B&B called Inn Boonsboro. Call me a dork but I kinda want to go check it out and her little bookstore, Turn the Page Bookstore Cafe. I'm not one of those fanatical fans of NR, but I do enjoy a few of her books. The headhopping kills me but her heroines are always so tough, smart, and amazing. She has a way with characters that are engaging. I loved her three sister's trilogy and the book The Three Fates. Actually, that was the first book I ever read of hers three years ago. I am guilty to say I haven't read that many, but I respect her and she's really rather approachable in person. Of course, who wouldn't want to be NR. She's on top in the romance publishing world and you can only respect and be in awe of her. So of course, when I heard they are making 4 more adaptations of her books, I am curious to see how they'll turn out.

After all, I plan on having movies made from my books someday...it will happen! :)

Now I'm inspired again. Will have to write today....you should do it too!

I grew up loving Disney movies...my all time favorite is Beauty and the Beast. A lot of my storylines are touched by the bit of magic that comes from this movie...who could love a beast with a tender heart? I'm certain I'm not the only one who uses this character as an example. Then there's another all time favorite character with the same temperament, Mr. Darcy....but, if you dissect it...he resembles Mr. Beast...The truth is, these guys make the best hero in any love story.

I got my washer/dryer delivered today! So while I was testing it out, drinking coffee, unpacking, shredding, etc. I popped in the Disney movie. Even though I've seen it at least fifty times, I still love it. I love the music, the storytelling, the illustration...it brings me back to that special place. Makes me miss being a kid again. I don't think you can ever out-grow cartoons, especially well written ones. Thank you, Mr. Walt Disney.

Did I mention that I have a phone line and DSL now? YES! I have wireless and I am typing on my pink mini while watching my movie. Unfortunately, my work computer is still not set up until I get my furniture Friday. It gives me a few days to finish up with the boxes and boxes sitting in my living room. I'm trying to get through it so I can finally get the rest of my furniture.

I plan on writing at least 5 pages today...any suggestions for some good romance movies set in the beautiful Italian countryside? I need some more visuals to keep me inspired.

Last Saturday my author friend was AWESOME enough to volunteer to come help me move into my new digs down the hall. The day seemed to pass pretty quickly since we didn't have furniture to haul. It was nice to spend time with her since I've been stuck indoors since the move to Texas. The rest of the day was spent hanging out at Starbucks and stuffing our faces with Mongolian BBQ for dinner. Okay, so that part of moving was possibly the easiest ever but considering the whole experience has taken a lot longer than I anticipated...

The fun has just begun.

I had to transfer all my utilities, phone, dsl, cable today and it was a real treat. I spent FOUR hours on the telephone to make this happen. I spent another hour trying to switch over my electricity, only to find out my new apartment 'does not exist'. Apparently, the apartment is so new that not all the buildings are listed in the system. Tomorrow I'll be getting the electric company to realize that, in fact, the building does exist because there happens to be electricity in our apartment. Sigh. At least I found a delivery company to pick up my furniture and assemble them this Friday. YAY! The highlight of my stay here in cow country.

I'm looking forward to a really awesome home office! I got a really cool desk, sleeper sofa, and chair so that my friends can visit or come over and write. Funny thing, it's going to be the only part of the home that's fully furnished! We still need to get living room furniture, our platform for our bed, dressers, etc. At least we have a dining table coming. Next step is the flat screen tv and washer/dryer.

Which leads me to the funniest laundry trip ever. We could not find a freakin' laundromat in Cowtown! We ended up downtown Dallas in search of a really hip place called Bar of Soap. It's a laundromat and bar, but sadly, it was closed down. Then we drove back to our area of town and there were NO laundromats. We ended up in another city and it wasn't the prettiest of parts. At 6:00 PM on a Sunday night, I felt like I was doing time--er, doing laundry in South Central. I went next door to the convenience store and when buying detergent and Bounce, the cashier was hitting on me. Then he proceeds to tell me that Asian's love watching a lot of porn! Nice conversation there. What a way to pick up chicks. During the excruciating hour wait for the clothes...I was expecting to hear sirens, car chases, gun shots, and all that other 'late-breaking news' stuff. Thankfully, we got the heck out of there before the laundry was barely dry :) Fun, I tell ya. We decided then and there we were getting the W/D ASAP!

As terrible as the endless series of mishaps, it's been entertaining. You couldn't make up half the stuff...One thing that's been the most constant part of my life is...

I've been so immersed in Italy and can't seem to deviate from my current project. I'm so in love with Tuscany, the countryside, the wine, the food, the language. I've spent hours reading up on this delicious region of Italy and brainstorming as I go. My mind has formulated a strong storyline and engaging fictious cast of characters. The more I think about this project the more I am excited about seeing this story completed.

Of course, my obsession always stems from some sort of avoidance. You see, although this story has been swirling around in my imagination for a long while...I couldn't fully put a finger on the element of the storyline that was missing. Yesterday, everything clicked. It started out as a fantastic morning filled with good news and then ended with a phone call...a dear family friend passed away right before Christmas...of course, sorrow is something really hard to express and as human beings we tend to either hold it inside or openly grieve. For me, I am one to try to be strong and close myself off to grieve alone.

It got me thinking about life and death. As much as I am saddened, I'm choosing to celebrate the life of this incredible person...remembering all the wonderful things that made him well-loved...and knowing that he will always be alive in my heart...


...and that got me thinking...this story encompasses the emotion of death in two parts. It also focuses on life and re-birth. My stories often showcase characters that have suffered and have grown from their experience. In this particular project, my heroine is strong and views death in a way that changes the lives of everyone around her. I've already started writing the first chapter and I think this is like nothing I've ever written before. Same voice, different mood, and a love story that isn't just contained to the hero and heroine...it's much more.

So, we're still unloading the 15 foot truck--ahem, modestly filled with my belongings...about a dozen boxes being romance and reference books...the necessities of a romance author--now that I've been in my unfurnished apartment two nights, it didn't sink in that there were a few things that we should have been alerted to before we started making the place homey.

For instance, there's a stretch of old railroad tracks running parallel to apartments (which my office faces) that Mr. Right was told was defunct. NOT. I witnessed the train swishing past and decided it was time to explore the city and grab my Starbucks while I was at it. But that's not the best part...how about hearing constant banging and clanging throughout the day. You see, there's the trash shoot that is conveniently installed next to my apartment. It's so close that I've heard the swoosh of the trash as is tumbles and slides down, then there's the quick BOOM! as the metal box slams shuts. Do people really throw out the trash at 1:00 AM?! Considering it's been in the 30s and 40s here, I'm too darn lazy to get my tiny butt out of bed to face the impending cold, let alone dump trash. Sigh. It looks like we'll be switching apartments...grrrr...more moving but at least the furniture hasn't come in so that's a plus. Too bad I'm going to have to re-forward everything that was coming to this place...another item on my to-do list...Universe, give me patience :)

To my friends, I'll be sending out a mass email soon with my new apartment number!

Enough about that.

Texas folks are really friendly. I'm still trying to get used to the southern twang all around, but it's unavoidable, I'm afraid. Where I am living, it's a tiny little city 20 minutes outside of Dallas. All the shopping strips and groceries stores are five minutes away--which I totally love! I'm a city girl but it's nice that people look you in the eye, say 'thank you' when you open the door, and they're quick to make small talk. It's kind of refreshing. In LA, people were nice, but they were always guarded, which made me more introverted at times. One thing's for sure, there's a lot of Tex-Mex and BBQ restaurants around. I'm not big on Mexican food but I'm certainly going to have to get used to it.

Yeehaw! How y'all doing...

Yeehaw! We made it into Texas late last night and would have gotten here sooner if not for the false alarm of a severe thunder watch (brewing hail storm) in Alabama. We stayed at a hotel in Pensacola, the longest freakin' stretch before exiting Florida, to avoid any road hazards since the moving truck was towing a car carrier which was practically the size of a semi! The road trip was actually fun and there was plenty of roadkill to count along the 18-20 hour drive...one in which I never plan on repeating for a long time! I will upload pictures once my desktop is up and running in my office. I'm currently on my baby pink Aspire mini--an awesome Christmas gift, I might add-- and too lazy to connect my digital camera. In fact, I'm too lazy to do a lot of things because I really need the R&R. We won't have full internet services until the end of the week or early next week, but I'm borrowing connection from the neighbors for the day...ahem...

I left warm, sunny weather and stepped right into icy cold front which requires insulated boots and bundling up. This morning I thought I'd take a ride through the town but one foot outside I was running back into the warmth of my home. Well, the trees are basically sporting ice formations outside my window, bare and beautiful even though it's been rainy and overcast all day. However, I am nice and snug under the blankets and ready for a nap. It's so beautiful at my new place and I plan on taking pics once we have furniture and my office is presentable. I'm estatic about decorating but I'm anxious to get started with my writing again. I've done a little brainstorming on the ride so I'm all jazzed up. I know there's a lot of work ahead of me in 2009 and it's already starting off with a bang!

Mr. Right tells me I'm a Texas girl now..but I say I'm still an LA girl at heart! I'm sure in time I'll be comfortable in the cowgirl boots but miracles doesn't happen overnight! LOL -- Well, I have a new home, new deadlines, and plenty of things to keep me busy the next few months...better get started.

I'll be back soon to keep you entertained...can't wait to have a sip of my Chai latte...