Andy Kim Christmas Show 2010 - The Mod Club.MOV

It's a Beautiful Wedding video

Our niece Amy and her beloved, Mike were married November 7, 2010 in Charleston, South Carolina.
I'm so pleased to share this lovely video slideshow.  Have your tissues handy and make sure your speakers are turned on for the music.
Enjoy!

Military Dream Wedding 2010 - Amy and Mike on Vimeo

Dear NaNoWriMo

National Novel Writing Month 

Dear NaNoWriMo,

Thank you for another fun-filled November.  I really appreciate the pep talks, the web badges, the badgering to keep on going, the egg throwing, the monkey buying, and I find the spaceship crashing most enjoyable.

Did anyone tell you that after one year I am still editing the NaNo Novel I wrote last November? I didn't think so.

I am also working hard on my NaNovel this year.  However, I refuse to surrender and give up everything else life has to offer this month.  So I'm a lil behind on my word count at the half-way point.

Therefore,  I am writing to suggest a novel idea; let's make it National Novel Writing Months!  I propose that we extend this through December as well so we can have even more reasons to hide out in our writing space during the Christmas season.

Oh, I don't mean to cheat and take two months to write a mere 50,000 words.  Let's double it up!  Double or nothing!  100,000 words by December 31st.

Let's run this by the other WriMo's, shall we and get a vote on it?

I'm going back to viewing the all important LOL cats and spewing typed drivel.

K Tkx  Bai

New book cover for "There's No Place Like Gnome"

During a NaNoWriMo morning break, and while I was waiting to find out just how my husband was going to go from stranded in Charlotte NC airport to where he needs to be in Charleston, SC, I decided to completely redo the book cover.  "There's No Place Like Gnome" is now on track for a Christmas season release, and book 3 is being drafted during this NaNoWriMo month!

Happy Halloweenie! Staring Azan, Rose, Geddy, Alex and Neil

Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!

Just the Facts: "Trickle Up Economy" The More Than "Inconvenient" Truth

 

Kindle Edition

Michael Savage has written a masterpiece on the current state of politics and economics and yes, encroaching socialism in the USA.
You might hear about this book and be led to wonder how he could possibly substantiate all the details of each chapter.  Yet you will find every chapter heavily annotated and documentation for every alleged instance of the manipulation of our economic and social systems.

This book is so very important for Americans to read to learn how, and indeed how quickly, we must act to save our country.  Borders, language and culture are just the tip of the iceberg.

Buy a copy for yourself.  Buy extras for your friends.  Spread the word.  If we don't save ourselves, we are sunk.  The meltdown (intentional) of our economy, the takeover of vast segments of our freedoms and the land grabs must be stopped.

A Nose For Hanky Panky

Well long time, no blog, eh?  I have to admit that I've fallen far off the blogging train and apologize for my neglectfulness.  I've been brought out of my "busy with other stuff stupor" to write about a really good new mystery book that I've recently had the pleasure to read and review.  Read on to discover more about "A Nose for Hanky Panky"

Author Sharon Love Cook lives in a city nearby to my own, and I first saw mention of her in an article in The Salem News last winter.  I was intrigued by the concept of her forthcoming book and sent her an email expressing my interest.  Some months later Sharon got in touch with me and agreed to send me a copy of  "A Nose for Hanky Panky" to read and review.  I was thrilled when it arrived just a day later, and was even enchanted by the classy wrapping paper she used.  That tipped me off that Sharon has a good eye for style and detail.

"A Nose for Hanky Panky" reflects the same: style and detail.  The book is winsome, charming, fun, funny, and suspenseful all wrapped together.  I particularly enjoyed how the characters are shown to be very human and pretty well rounded.  I'd like to bring a few of them to "real life" to have as friends.

The mystery tale revolves around the stunning murder of local hot shot psychologist Dr. Vivian Klinger.  The police have a suspect in mind and don't seem inclined to follow any other leads.  Rest assured, our intrepid reporter Rose McNichols is on the case and hot on the trail of the killer.  Unfortunately, she hasn't quite figured out whose trail it is she is hot on.

With wonderfully accurate descriptions of places, sights and sounds of the Cape Ann area, she evokes the sensibilties of readers so that they may feel transported enough to smell the ocean.  Ms. Cook has a knack for using just the right combinations of words almost make you forget you are reading a fictional story.  I felt as involved with the novel that I was sad when it ended.  That said, I have something to look forward to as the series continues and evolves.  I can't wait for the sequel!

Sadness at MyShelf- Kim Malo has passed away

My heart and soul are very sad this afternoon.  Earlier, I learned of the sudden passing of my colleague at MyShelf, my friend, Kim Malo.

Kim was undoubtedly the most intelligent person I have ever known.  She was so outstanding at everything she did and I found myself always in awe of her.  Despite difficulties that life threw her way, Kim did not complain.  Ever.

There are so many more things I wish to say about Kim, but as another colleague said "words are not coming easy."

The loss of Kim is palpable.  My heart aches.  I fervently hope that wherever Kim is in the great beyond, she has a limitless supply of books, a super speed computer and no more pain or suffering ever again.

God rest her soul.  Kim you are missed so much and we will never, ever forget you.

Frugal and Focused Tweeting review and Online Launch

 Today I'd like to congratulate my dear friend, Carolyn Howard-Johnson on the special Online Launch of her fabulous book "Frugal and Focused Tweeting for Retailers"

Carolyn is one of the smartest people I've ever encountered, and she is as generous, kind and thoughtful as she is smart.  I have learned and continue to learn so much from her, and it's an honor for me to share information on this latest book with you.  If you are a retailer who wants to learn about Tweeting to improve your business, or a Tweeter who wants to learn retail marketing and utilize your Twitter skills you will love this book.

I had the opportunity to read it recently & I've now read it three times.  While the information is presented in an easy to understand manner, there is so much knowledge within the pages that I wanted to be sure I didn't miss anything.  Carolyn sure doesn't- she never misses a trick.

Below is a link for information to her Online Launch using the services of Promotion a la carte (Hi Aggie!).  You can find out more about Carolyn's appearances at that site.

Next you will see Carolyn's smiling face on the image of the cover of "Frugal and Focused Tweeting for Retailers"

Last, but not least, the review I was delighted to write for http://www.MyShelf.com for their August update (coming soon).

It is my fondest hope today that readers/retailers/writers will take time to learn more about this accomplished and savvy woman who takes pride and delight in teaching and helping others.  I know you will find her books and her blog and her Tweets as insightful and educational as I do!

Enjoy!

Schedule of appearances/

http://www.howtodoitfrugally.com/frugal_and_focused_tweeting.htm

          

           Are you can experienced Twitter user?  Or are you a novice user or perhaps someone who has yet to dare to dip your toes into the Twitterverse?  If any of these circumstances apply to you, “Frugal and Focused Tweeting” will teach you things you probably don’t already know about Twitter, and will most certainly help you get off on the right “Tweet” if you are just starting out. 

            In her friendly, easy to understand, and fun manner, Carolyn Howard- Johnson shares the simple ways to make use of your Twitter account to help grow your online or offline business. While the book is targeted, as evidenced by the title, to retailers it offers important information to anyone who seeks to further understand how to use Twitter and gain maximum benefit from the time you spend doing so. 

            You will learn about the Twitter Interface, how to build a targeted group of followers, the best ways to integrate your Tweets with other Social Media.  Within a few short sections of this book you will be familiar with Twitter tools, statistics, and how to set your goals and follow through with them. 

            Once you’ve mastered the main content of the book, you’ll find a helpful appendix section which includes sample Tweets, a glossary of Twitter terms, and an introduction to some Twitter Applications to help you organize your ever burgeoning Twitter contacts. 

            Without a doubt in my mind, I recommend that anyone and everyone who wants to utilize Twitter to its fullest potential should read this book.  It’s one you’ll want to keep on hand by your computer or in E-book form on your desktop.

RUSH Intro/"Spirit Of Radio" Albuquerque NM June 29th 2010

What a day! What a week! What a sensation, eh? I'm having the great pleasure of finding more and more vids of the Rush Tour 2010 that I. Am. Not. Going. To. AGAIN this year. I suppose I'll just have to be happy with my memories of, oh, say 33 concerts over 25 years....
This is the opening vid and start of "Spirit of Radio" at Albukookie NM (HI JANIE!) June 29

#LowTech

Late last night, as I was listening to a CD on my personal CD player, I thought about how low-tech I really am. The thing is, I'm fine with that!

While I obviously have a PC, I saw a manual typewriter on Freecycle the other day and was tempted, but just for a minute. I must confess to having a digital camera and a flip video thingy, but I wouldn't cry over losing either one. There are only oh so many cat pictures and vids one can make, right?

I'm very happy to have an old-fashioned family doctor who knows me inside out and upside down rather than an array of specialists. Also love having a small local pharmacy who still delivers when you are ailing.

I have no Ipod, no Ipad, no Laptop, no Iphone, no Smartphone, hell not even a cell phone!
I have a DVD player, but not a DVR. I still have tons of things in VHS format.

We still own our LP's! Vinyl! Have CD's and DVD's but wouldn't know a Blue Ray if it stung me.

There is nothing that could be called "flat screen" in our humble abode.

I actually still check email before I log on to see what's going on at Facebook or what Twitter is trending. When I do any web site work, I code in HTML by hand- although I do know how to use WYSIWYG editors.

Newspapers are still delivered to our house by a kid. Sure, I read news online, but I do my crossword and read my comics the old style way. Much like with a book, I love the feel of actual news paper in my hands. Back in the day, late 80's I worked for a leading computer magazine. Unixworld. Now defunct. Today, if I want to do most freelance writing, I'm forced to do it on the net. For the most part, that's fine, but it somehow lacks the personal interaction and even personal conflicts that made work more human.

Our Mr. Coffee does not have a programmable timer, unless you count me, making the coffee same time every AM hoping I'm awake enough to measure properly.

The most prevalent furniture in our house are bookcases in every room. Books are the accessories of choice. My favorite places are libraries and independent bookstores, so, you guessed it, I don't own a Kindle or a Nook or any kind of e-reader.

I've never texted anyone in my life, don't plan to start, and frankly wouldn't want to learn how to un-spell. IMO texting has dumbed down our kids to a point that this country may never recover as any sort of educational leader.

Recently, I was part of a discussion about how rude it is for people to Text when they are at a restaurant or a gathering of folks visiting and just kicking back together. During said discussion, while participating in the discussion, two people were glued to texting or checking their I-phones! One got the hint, the other was oblivious. Obviously hypnotized and chained to the hi- tech products rather than actual human interaction.

I'm about to become even more "Stone-Age"...my 1995 Buick has bit the dust and with no plans, nor finances for a new vehicle, my only mode of transport will either be my feet or waiting for hubby to drive me around. Unless, of course, they bring ZipCars to Danvers! Now that I'd be willing to upgrade my status to that of 2010 gal with an environmentally good plan for resuming automotive capability and saving $$.

Some of you are shaking your heads and maybe even feeling sorry for me. Please don't! Other than not having a car for the foreseeable future, I'm happy!

#LowTech and proud of it. Not that there's anything wrong with that!

Cheers!
LowTech Mama,
Laura

Rush - Caravan (New Single!!)

Killer Characters

The Cozy Chicks have a Cool New Blog--written by the characters from your favorite cozy mysteries! How unique and fun is that!!!!

I'm excited to read it, and today it starts out with a character from author Ellery Adams.

Check it out!

Killer Characters

Latest book news

I know I keep saying I'm thisclose to done with the sequel to Banana. I really am! It's just that the characters aren't. They have more to tell and more to do and as their humble servant I must obey! Deadline approaches, no more flexibility, I'm on it! Meantime, refresh your memory (haha) of parts of Banana by clicking on the Widget above!
xoxo
Laura

The Sky Is Everywhere

I seem to be continuing to find fascinating new YA books and authors! Last night, I finished the truly wonderful "The Sky is Everywhere" by Jandy Nelson.
I loved everything about this book, and will likely read it at least 23 more times (grin to Jandy!)

While a sad story about the sudden and tragic death of 19 year old Bailey Walker, the tale features Bailey's younger sister, Lennie, and how her whole world is changed and how she herself fundamentally grows and changes as a result.

It's a romantic story too! Young love at it's purest with all the resulting emotions and fears well illustrated. The characters are all vibrant, alive to the reader and astonishingly unique, lovable, smart, funny and charismatic.

Jandy Nelson has published her first novel with "The Sky Is Everywhere". Her ability to spin a web of people and events so interconnected that they buzz with electricity right from the page into the reader's heart makes her a Master Storyteller in my book. Her way with words, the oft said "turn of phrase", the way she opens the souls of each person she has created are all indeed special gifts.

I'm recommending this book to all Young Adults and any and all Adults who love a truly well crafted book. As for me, I'm hoping that Ms. Nelson is hard at work on her next book and her next one after that and I wish her phenomenal success.

Go...buy this book today! You won't regret a minute of your time or a penny well spent! There's an Amazon link above to make it easy for you.

Happy Weekend!
Laura

RUSH DISCUSSES DOCUMENTARY IN TRIBECA FILM FESTIVAL

What can I say? I'm not going to Tribeca, not going to see the Rush tour this summer. Am happy with YouTube cuts and hope to see the movie when it's out this summer. See, I freaking told you guys Rush would endure.
Hi Ged! Hi Big Al!

If you loved reading "A Wrinkle in Time"..

As a youngster I adored "A Wrinkle in Time".  As an adult I still loved it so much that I added it to my ever growing book collection, read it again and hung on to it.

Yesterday, I had the great fortune to read the YA book "When You Reach Me" by the talented Rebecca Stead.  "A Wrinkle in Time" figures prominently in this story, so of course I had to find my copy.  You know what? Despite bookcases all over our house, I found it in a dark room, using just a flash light, in under 30 seconds!

I'm not going to give a summary review of "When You Reach Me".  You can find such reviews at Amazon when you click on the link above to go buy your copy.   What I will say is that the book is amazing, unique and a really great read for all ages and both boys/men and girls/women. Loved it, loved it, loved it!  My copy is going to live right next to "A Wrinkle in Time"

Thank you very much Rebecca Stead for sharing this story!!  I can't wait to read whatever your write next!
xo
Laura

Lovely Blogs Deserve Awards!

Today it is my turn to pass this award on to ten other Lovely Blogs.  It is my privilege to share the list with you:
The Frugal, Smart and Tuned in Editor
The Lipstick Chronicles
 Jane Ellen Music
 WUBS
Clea Simon
Joanna Bailey Weddings
Albert The Cat
Mystery Lovers Kitchen
Deborah Adams
Julie Hyzy and her blog

One Lovely Blog Award

With heartfelt gratitude to Heather at Heather Webber for the One Lovely Blog Award.
In accepting this One Lovely Blog award, I've posted it here on my blog, and given the name of the person who granted it to my blog.  I will next be passing it along to 10 other blogs and am pondering which 10 and they will be awarded within the next 24 hours.