Survey: Ladies, What Makes You Feel Sexy?

I tried to set this up as a poll, but it didn’t work :(

I want to know what makes you feel sexy. Number one for any woman would be compliments from others, be it a verbal or just a I like what I see look. But what else makes you feel sexy?

Some possibilities:

* wearing sexy underwear--even if no one else knows you’re wearing it/will see it

* well-fitting clothes that flatter your figure

* wearing a certain type of shoes (ie high heels, strappy sandals, etc)

* a good hair day

* the perfect shade of lipstick/other makeup

* getting your nails done

* pampering yourself (bubble bath, facial, lotions, etc)

* a great perfume

* fabulous jewerly

* alcohol ;)

* all of the above

* something else you didn’t mention (and tell me what it is!)

Sexy Music Video

I love this song. It's the song on MySpace Page. A few days ago, I saw the music video for the first time, and damn, it's sexy. Check it out.

"Must Be Doin' Somethin' Right" by Billy Currington

America's Most Lustful Cities/Only One Southern City Listed?

Per research firm ACNielsen, based on over-the-counter contraceptive purchases, Denver, Colorado is the most lustful city in the US, followed by:

San Antonio, Texas
Portland, Oregon
Seattle, Washington
Salt Lake City, Utah
Boise, Idaho
Washington, D.C.
Cincinnati, Ohio
Columbus, Ohio
Baltimore, Maryland
Buffalo, New York
Rochester, New York

You can read the full article HERE.

Of course, you have to take into account that lots of people don’t use over-the-counter contraceptives. I haven’t used an over-the-counter contraceptive in many, many years, but that doesn’t mean there’s not lots of lust in my life ;)

I did find it interesting that San Antonio was the only southern city to make the list. Why is that? I'm sure there are numerous factors that come into play, but I suspect one reason might be a lack of safe sex education programs/awareness of the youth. Being a southern I can tell you that there are still plenty of parents who don’t discuss safe sex with their children. And in my area they refuse to allow the schools to do it either—the schools here teach abstinence only. They’ve tried to change the policy several times to make the sex education instruction more comprehensive, but too many (very vocal) parents object.

Are our young people abstaining from sex? I’m sure some are, but apparently not enough, because we rank in the top ten states with the highest teenage pregnancy rate. They’re having sex, they just aren’t using protection. And that’s why I’m very sad to see that my city didn’t make this list, not because it would prove we were lustful, but because making it would mean more people are having safe sex.

I swear when I started this post it was not supposed to be a rant about the importance of teaching young people to practice safe sex, but it kind of veered off in that direction, didn't it?

Sexiest Movie Kisses

Check out this article from MSN Movies.

They ranked the sexiest screen kisses as:
10. Joel McCrea and Jean Arthur in The More the Merrier (1943)
9. Cary Grant and Ingrid Bergman in Notorious (1946)
8. James Stewart and Kim Novak in Vertigo (1958)
7. Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall in To Have and Have Not (1944)
6. Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal in Brokeback Mountain (2005)
5. James Stewart and Donna Reed in It's a Wonderful Life (1946)
4. Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson in Lost in Translation (2003)
3. Naomi Watts and Laura Harring in Mulholland Dr. (2001)
2. Tony Curtis and Marilyn Monroe in Some Like It Hot (1959)
1. Tobey Maguire and Kirsten Dunst in Spider-Man (2002)

I found it interesting that more than half of these are from movies in the 40’s and 50’s. I guess actors really knew how to kiss back then. I also found it interesting that there are no movies listed from 1960-1999.

I agree that the kisses from It’s a Wonderful Life and Brokeback Mountain (two of my favorite movies) definitely deserved to make the list. The rest? Well, with the exception of Spiderman, I haven’t seen them, but now I want to.

If you have seen any of these movies, do you agree with the sexiest screen kiss title?

Is there a movie that you think deserved to make the list, but didn't?

What Your Cell Phone Color Says About You

I read an article recently that stated a person’s choice of cell phone color signals something about them.

A brief breakdown:
Red--provocative, dramatic, powerful
Orange--social, optimistic, energetic
Yellow--lively, friendly
Green--peaceful, values harmony and balance
Blue--dependable, soothing, calming
Purple--artistic, desire to be unique and different
Pink--innocent, playful, flirtatious
Brown--dependable
Black--dignified, impressive without being showy
White--values simplicity
Gold--reflects a desire for prestige

While I agree that sometimes the colors you choose say something about you, in the case of my cell phone... I have a red cell phone. What it says about me is simply this--the red phones were on sale when I bought my cell phone :)

Then again, in considering it further, if another color had been on sale--for example, purple--I might have spent more money and bought a different color. While purple is a beautiful color, I don’t own many purple things, because the color is just a bit too flashy for me. Soooo, maybe the red phone does say something about me. Do I consider myself provocative and powerful (I definitely am not dramatic)? Not especially, but maybe I want others to view me that way.

What color is your cell phone, and do you think the color says something about you?

Something To Make You Smile

Two women friends went out without their husbands for a Girls Night Out. As they were walking home, both of them incredibly drunk, they suddenly realized they both needed to pee. They were near a graveyard and one of them suggested they do their business behind a headstone.

They realized they didn't have anything to wipe with. One of the women took off her panties, used them and discarded them. Her friend, however, was wearing a pair of expensive underwear and didn't want to ruin them, but she was lucky enough to salvage a large ribbon from a wreath that was on a grave and proceeded to wipe herself with it. After finishing, they made their way home.

The next day the first woman's husband phones the other husband and says, "These damn girls nights out have got to stop. My wife came home last night without her panties."

"That's nothing," said the other. "Mine came back with a card stuck between the cheeks of her butt that said, From all of us at the Fire Station, we'll never forget you!"

What I'm Reading

Trouble in High Heels by Christina Dodd

Happy Easter

For those who celebrate the holiday--have a good one!

Which Hunk Was The Favorite?

I thought you might be interested in knowing the results of the "Favorite Hunk" Contest. The winner was a tie! Of the eight choices given, the two gentlemen pictured below each received 26% of the vote.

The Winner is...

I had a total of 69 entries in my March/Favorite Hunk contest. A huge thanks to everyone who participated!

I had my oldest son draw a name out of the hat, and the winner is...Laura D. from North Carolina.

Congrats, Laura! You should receive your prize--an 8 oz bottle of Tropical Passionfruit body cream from Bath and Body Works and a 12 oz bag of Hershey’s Kisses--sometime next week.

If you’d like to see which 'hunk' received the most votes, come back tomorrow!

Please check my website and blog over the next few weeks for information about a Spring Scavenger Hunt I'll be participating in and my April contest.

2nd Annual Favorite Hunk Contest (ends 03/20/08)

Last March I ran a Favorite Hunk Contest, and it was so successful, I've decided to make it an annual event.

I’ve posted pictures at my website of eight gorgeous hunks, and all you have to do is tell me which one is your favorite.

The last date for entry is March 20th, 2008. On March 21, 2008, I will randomly draw a winner from all entries received.

The winner will receive a 12 oz bag of Hershey’s Kisses and an 8 oz bottle of Tropical Passionfruit body cream from Bath and Body Works (because hunks, kisses, and passion just seem to go hand-in-hand!).

Visit my website HERE and click on the contest page for all the details.

Good luck!

Ladies--Today’s Your Day to Pop the Question!

Still waiting on that proposal? Today you can propose to him!

This tradition supposedly began in Ireland in the 5th century when St. Bridget complained to St. Patrick that the sisters in her nunnery were unhappy that they weren’t able to propose to men, and apparently the men weren't beating down the nunnery door to propose to them. (Did you think that nuns weren’t allowed to marry? Me too! It seems things were very different then.) In response, St. Patrick agreed to allow one day every four years--Leap Day--when women could propose.

Is the story true? Who knows. Some feel that it's doubtful, but still the legend persist.

Public Sleeping Day

We've had an issue recently with #2 son falling asleep in English class. His excuse--"we’re reading Tom Sawyer and it’s boring".

Well, he has a new excuse today...it’s Public Sleeping Day! Of course, I doubt his teacher will consider that to be a valid excuse for sleeping in class, but I’m sure he’ll try to get away with using it.

Her Protector Finally Available At Fictionwise

I’m so excited because my New Concepts Publishing book, Her Protector, which was released in September 2006 is finally available for purchase on Fictionwise. Yay! You can purchase it by clicking HERE. It’s currently 15% off :)

I'm really proud of this book. It was my first published work, and it received some great reviews, including a Recommended Read from Rites of Romance Reviews. It also won the Ecata Romance Best First eBook of 2006 award.




Her Protector by Pamela Tyner
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Rating: Sensual

Fleeing the law and a violent boyfriend, Tricia Stephens returns to the hometown she left years ago, never intending to return. But when Matt follows her she has no choice but to seek protection from the one man she learned early on that she could not trust.

Clint's sister was killed by her abusive husband, and he isn't about to allow that to happen to anyone else he cares for. Unfortunately, their past still haunts both of them and the act of love he used to set Tricia free has destroyed her trust in him.

A Letter To The IRS

Dear IRS,

For the first time I am filing taxes with a 17-year-old dependant.

As I was working on my taxes, I discovered that I can only receive the child tax credit for my dependants who were under 17 as of December 31, 2007.

As I was researching the details of the Economic Stimulus/Tax Rebate Plan, I discovered that I only receive the $300 rebate for dependants who were under 17 as of December 31, 2007.

What idiot made these rules? What’s the reasoning behind them?

Do you realize that in every single state of the US, a 17-year-old (unless they’ve been emancipated in some manner) is a minor and their parents are legally responsible for providing for them? Do you think it costs any less to provide for a 17-year-old than it does to provide for a 16-year-old, a 15-year-old, etc? It does not.

Common sense (which frankly, seems to be in short supply in Washington) dictates that you need to change these rules.

Signed,
A very unhappy taxpayer

Ready, Set, Don't Go

I’m not particularly a fan of Billy Ray Cyrus or Hannah Montana (although I have some nieces who think she’s great). But I saw this video the other day and absolutely loved it. Now granted, that may be because I can relate to it. #1 son turns 18 in about two months, graduates a month after that, and about three months after graduation will be packing his suitcases and heading out to conqueror the world (well, to go to college anyway). Right now, I’m not quite sure how I’ll handle that, but I suspect tears may be involved.

Something To Make You Smile

One evening a husband, thinking he was being funny, said to his wife, "Perhaps we should start washing your clothes in Slim Fast. Maybe it would take a few inches off of your butt!"

His wife was not amused and decided that she simply couldn't let such a comment go unrewarded.

The next morning the husband took a pair of underwear out of his drawer. "What the hell is this?" he said as a little "dust" cloud appeared when he shook them out.

"April," he hollered into the bathroom, "Why did you put talcum powder in my underwear?"

"It's not talcum powder," she replied. "It's Miracle Grow."

What I'm Reading...

The Doctor's Wife by Elizabeth Brundage (yes, sometimes I read books other than romance :)

Increasing Blog Traffic

Every once in a while, I check to see what google search queries are bringing people to my blog. Here’s the winner (by a long shot)---"average number of sexual partners" from this post. So, apparently one way to increase my blog traffic is to blog more about sex. No surprise there, I guess ;)

The Winner Is...

A huge thanks to everyone who participated in my February contest. I had my youngest son draw a name out of the hat, and the winner is…. Maria M. from New York.

Congrats, Maria. A one-pound box of Godiva chocolates is en route to you. Enjoy!

Don't forget to check my website and blog the beginning of March for information about my next contest. I have something very fun planned :)

Happy Valentine's Day!

How would you like to get a valentine like this?














I know some might find it a tad bit crude, but it made me smile :)


Here's a more traditional Valentine for you...

February Contest (expires 02/20/08)

In honor of Valentine’s Day, the winner of my February contest will receive a box of Godiva chocolates. YUM!

To be entered just send me an email and list the award that I was nominated for last moth (you can find that information here at my blog).

Click HERE to visit my website for all the details of the contest. The last date for entry is February 20, 2008.

While I didn’t win this award, I was thrilled just to be nominated! The winner was author Anne Rainey. I’m a HUGE fan of Anne’s work. I think she is an incredibly talented author, and I consider it a tremendous honor just to be nominated in the same category as her and all the other nominees.

Brava Novella Contest--Please Vote!

My fellow critique partner, Liz Falkner, has finaled in the Reader's Choice portion of the Brava Novella Contest.

I’m so proud of Liz! She’s a fabulous author (not to mention an all-around great person), and I encourage you to support her by participating/voting in this contest.

Click HERE to access the Brava Forum. You can read the entries (there are 20 total) by clicking on the Brava Novella Reader's Choice Finalist Thread. Liz’s entry is #310, TREASURE’S PLEASURE. Then vote for your favorite three by clicking on the Official Voting Thread. Please note that you must register for the forum in order to vote.

Voting will be open--I believe--for approximately one more week.

January, Month of Empty Pockets!

"January, month of empty pockets! Let us endure this evil month, anxious as a theatrical producer's forehead." -- Sidonie Gabrielle Colette

For those of you who aren’t familiar with Sidonie Gabrielle Colette, she was a French novelist, who wrote, among other things, Gigi, which became a Broadway play. Click HERE to read more about her. This woman led a very interesting life.

But I’m getting sidetracked...

How many of you are suffering from 'empty pocket' syndrome?
*raising my hand high and waving it madly*

How many of you are dreading receiving your credit card bill?
*raising my hand high and waving it madly*

How many of you have a significant other who doesn’t know how much that credit card bill is going to be?
Thankfully, I don’t fall into that category this year, but only because I forced my husband to go Christmas shopping with me, which is not something he normally does.

2007 Darwin Award Winner

For those who aren't familiar with the Darwin Awards: Named in honor of Charles Darwin, the father of evolution, the Darwin Awards commemorate those who improve our gene pool by removing themselves from it.

Back in July, I blogged about one of the 2007 Darwin Award nominees. Click HERE to read the post. The couple that I blogged about won first runner up. So, who was the 2007 Darwin Award Winner? This brilliant guy from Texas...

Michael was an alcoholic. And not an ordinary alcoholic, but an alcoholic who liked to take his liquor...well, rectally. His wife said he was "addicted to enemas" and often used alcohol in this manner. The result was the same: inebriation. And tonight, Michael was in for one hell of a party.

Two 1.5 litre bottles of sherry, more than 100 fluid ounces, right up the old address!

When the rest of us have had enough, we either stop drinking or pass out. When Michael had had enough (and subsequently passed out) the alcohol remaining in his rectal cavity continued to be absorbed. The next morning, Michael was dead.

The 58-year-old did a pretty good job of embalming himself. Toxicology reports measured his blood alcohol level as 0.47%.

In order to qualify for a Darwin Award, a person must remove himself from the gene pool via an "astounding misapplication of judgment." Three litres of sherry up the butt can only be described as astounding. Unsurprisingly, his neighbors said they were surprised to learn of the incident.

If you'd like to read about the other Darwin Award nominees, click HERE.

Most Embarrassing First Date

A friend emailed this to me the other day. I actually saw this show when it aired years ago, and I’ve never forgotten this story because it was so hilarious.

On The Tonight Show, Jay Leno went into the audience to find the most embarrassing first date that a woman ever had. There was absolutely no question as to why this woman took the prize!

She said it was midwinter...snowing and quite cold...and the guy had taken her skiing in the mountains outside Salt Lake City, Utah. The outing was fun but relatively uneventful until they were headed home late that afternoon.

They were driving back down the mountain, when she gradually began to realize that she should not have had that extra latte. They were about an hour away from anywhere with a rest room. Her date suggested she try to hold it, which she did for a while.

Unfortunately, because of the heavy snow and slow going, there came a point where she told him that he had better stop and let her go beside the road, or it would be the front seat of his car. They stopped and she got out of the car, yanked her pants down and started. In the deep snow she didn't have good footing, so she let her butt rest against the rear fender to steady herself.

Her companion stood on the side of the car watching for traffic and indeed was a real gentleman and refrained from peeking. All she could think about was the relief she felt despite the rather embarrassing nature of the situation. Upon finishing however, she soon became aware of another sensation. As she bent to pull up her pants, the young lady discovered her buttocks were firmly glued against the car's fender.

Thoughts of tongues frozen to poles immediately came to mind as she attempted to disengage her flesh from the icy metal. It was quickly apparent that she had a brand new problem due to the extreme cold. Horrified by her plight and yet aware of the humor of the moment, she answered her date's concerns about 'what is taking so long' with a reply that indeed, she was 'freezing her butt off' and in need of some assistance!

He came around the car as she tried to cover herself with her sweater and then, as she looked into his eyes, he burst out laughing. She too, got the giggles and when they finally managed to compose themselves, they assessed her dilemma.

Obviously, as hysterical as the situation was, they also were faced with a real problem. Both agreed it would take something hot to free her chilly cheeks from the grip of the icy metal. Thinking about what had gotten her into the predicament in the first place; both quickly realized that there was only one way to get her free.

So, as she looked the other way, her first-time date proceeded to unzip his pants and pee her butt off the fender.

As the audience screamed in laughter, she took the Tonight Show prize hands down. Or perhaps that should be 'pants down'.

Jay Leno's comment: "This gives a whole new meaning to being pissed off."

Oh, and how did the first date turn out?

He became her husband and was sitting next to her on The Tonight Show.

Now I’ve had some embarrassing moments on dates, but they did not begin to compare to this. Had it been me, I doubt I would have ever seen this guy again, because I wouldn’t have been able to look him in the face after that.

Compliment Day

Today is Compliment Day. Compliments are a powerful thing. They have the power to brighten someone’s day...maybe even their entire week. They even have the power to soften feelings. Don’t believe me? Try paying a compliment to someone you’re normally at odds with and see if they don't warm up to you just a tad (after they get over the shock of it :) The only clincher is the compliment must be sincere and can’t be 'overdone' (don’t gush!), because people can spot a phony compliment a mile away.

So, hand out a few compliments today. It costs nothing. It makes the recipient feel good. And doesn’t it make you feel good also to know that you brought some happiness to someone with just a few simple words?

I suggest you start with your significant other--because too often we forget to compliment them/thank them--and go from there.

National Handwriting Day

Today is National Handwriting Day. It’s celebrated on January 23rd because it’s the birthday of John Hancock. He was, as I’m sure you know, the first person to sign the Declaration of Independence and is famous for his large signature.

The purpose of the day is to "alert the public to the importance of handwriting". And frankly, I think we need something to remind people how important it is, because it’s becoming a lost art.

Years ago when I was in school, a huge emphasis was placed on handwriting. In elementary school, we received a handwriting grade. We practiced it every single day. Once we were taught to write in cursive, we were then required to write everything in cursive. If our handwriting was sloppy, it decreased our grade. If it was too sloppy, we had to re-do the paper.

Today, it’s a different story.

My kids spent very little time in school--in class or in the form of homework--practicing handwriting. They were taught cursive, but were never required to use it beyond the 'lessons'. Both of them, now 17 and 13, still print. Frankly, I doubt they even remember how to write in cursive, beyond writing their signature, and they’ll print that if they can get away with it. And sadly, even their print isn’t especially 'pretty'. In fact my oldest son’s handwriting boarders on illegible. But in his defense, he is left-handed and I think his teachers, who were right-handed, didn’t know how to teach a left-handed child to write (and I certainly didn’t know). But, I digress. That’s a subject for another time.

It’s not just my kids who are lacking in cursive ability and penmanship. I’ve talked to other parents about this. I’ve talked to teachers about this. It’s a growing trend.

According to this article in The Washington Post: When handwritten essays were introduced on the SAT exams for the class of 2006, just 15 percent of the almost 1.5 million students wrote their answers in cursive. The rest? They printed. Block letters.

So, why is this becoming a lost art? There are a lot of reasons. In the elementary schools, time that was previously spent on handwriting is now being gobbled up by other subjects, such as computer class, foreign language class (we didn’t take foreign language until high school), PE (we had PE in high school, but not in elementary school--we just played at recess--and yet, we were healthier than kids today are), etc. And let’s not forget the increased importance of year-end testing. The teachers are more concerned with other things. Legible handwriting is not 'tested' and required for a student to pass. What’s that you say? The teachers still have to be able to read the students' work? Sure they do, so the solution is simple--have them type their papers.

Obviously, computer usage/dependency plays a BIG part in this issue.

Even I rarely handwrite anything anymore. Given a choice, I prefer to type. It’s faster. When I write by hand, my hand can’t keep up with my brain. When you type, it’s easier to edit your work--to add passages, to delete passages, etc. The computer also offers me the convenience of spell-check.

These days, other than my signature, about the only things I handwrite are my grocery list and my checks, and with debit cards, electronic banking, and automatic draft, I rarely write checks anymore.

So, today I encourage you all to handwrite something!

Heath Ledger Dead At 28

Wow, what a shock.

I’m a big fan of Mr. Ledger’s work. I thought he was brillant in Brokeback Mountain and Monster’s Ball (which I actually found to be a very disturbing movie, but it was a good movie). I loved him in A Knight’s Tale, The Patriot, and Ten Things I Hate About You.

A tragic loss. It’s such a shame that his daughter will have to grow up without him in her life.

The Winner Is...

Thanks to all who entered my January contest! I had my husband draw a name out of the hat, and the winner was...Anna M. from Ohio.

Congrats, Anna! You should receive your prize--a copy of Caine's Reckoning by Sarah McCarty--sometime in the next week. Happy Reading!

Please remember to check my website and blog the beginning of February for information about my next contest.

I Got Nominated For An Award--GO VOTE FOR ME :)

I just discovered that I was nominated for an award--Best Contemporary Author--at Rites of Romance Reviews! I was shocked and absolutely thrilled to get this news.

If you’d like to vote for me (and please do!)....

Voting is being held in the polls section of the RoRRChatters Yahoo group. You must be signed up with the group in order to vote. If you’re not yet a member of the group, just go HERE and then click Join This Group.

Thanks in advance for your support. I really appreciate it!

January Contest (expires 01/20/08)

The winner of my January contest will receive a copy of Caine's Reckoning by Sarah McCarty (Harlequin Spice, November 2007). I chose this prize because one of the entrants in my December contest listed Caine as the person they’d like to meet under the mistletoe :)

If you’d like to meet Caine--or at least read his story--all you have to do is post a comment on this blog entry between now and January 20th stating that you want to be entered into the drawing. The winner will be chosen at random and announced on January 21, 2008.

Be aware that if you are the winner, your name and state (or country) of residency will be posted on my blog and website. I DO need your email address so I can contact you in the event that you win the drawing. If I can backtrack and locate an address for you (for example, an email address listed on blogger), then that’s wonderful. If not, then you need to send your email address, along with a copy of your post, to pamelatyner@hotmail.com The winner will be notified by email and will have one week to reply. If there's no reply after seven days a new winner will be drawn.

*Please note--due to the erotic nature of this book, you must be at least 18 to enter the contest.*



The Hell's Eight is the only family he's ever needed, until he meets the only woman he's ever wanted...

Caine Allen is a hardened Texas Ranger, definitely not the marrying kind. But when he rescues a kidnapped woman and returns her to town, the preacher calls in a favor. One Caine's honor won't let him refuse. From the moment he beds Desi, Caine knows turmoil will follow. Desi might have the face of a temptress, but she also has a will of iron and while she needs his protection, she's determined that no man will control her again. They establish an uneasy bond, but it isn't enough for Caine. He wants all Desi has to offer. He wants her screams, her moans, her demands…everything. Yet there's still a bounty on Desi's head, and keeping her sexually satisfied is proving easier than keeping her alive.

Happy New Year!

May 2008 bring many wonderful things your way!

My usual reminder--if you plan to ring in the New Year, please remember to BE SAFE!

Internet Problems

My Internet connection has been giving me fits over the last week. Problems connecting, when I could connect, it was slooooooooow going, and it would randomly and suddenly shut-down. It was very frustrating. But thankfully, hopefully, it’s now fixed. It’s a good thing too, because I was about to begin suffering from withdrawal symptoms.

Happy Holidays!

What I’m Reading

I went digging in my HUGE to-be-read stack for a book with a holiday theme, and here’s what I found...

Secret Santa (Harlequin Blaze, December 2006)
with stories by Janelle Denison, Isabel Sharpe, and Jennifer LaBrecque

Who We'd Like To Meet Under The Mistletoe

So, who would my December contest entrants like to meet under the mistletoe?

Many opted for someone that they personally know...a sexy co-worker, a guy who lives down the street, etc.

A couple of people mentioned characters from a book, such as Caine from Sarah McCarty's Caine's Reckoning (a book I have yet to read, but it's definitely on my to-buy list!).

Of the celebrities mentioned, there were a few musicians:

Jon Bon Jovi

Rod Stewart

Willy Braun (from Reckless Kelly)

Tim McGraw


And there were several actors:

David Boreanaz

Gerard Butler

Johnny Depp

David James Elliot

Colin Farrell

Andy Garcia

Ryan Gosling

Hugh Jackman

Jude Law

Matthew McConaughey

Viggo Mortensen

Robert De Niro

Alex O'Loughlin

Will Smith


The name that was mentioned the most often...Orlando Bloom

The Winner Is...

A huge thanks to all who entered my December contest. I enjoyed hearing who others would like to meet under the mistletoe :) If you’re wondering which names were mentioned, then come back tomorrow and find out!

I had my oldest son draw a name out of the hat, and the winner of the 2008 Studs ‘N Spurs wall calendar is...Martha L. from Mississippi. Congrats, Martha! Enjoy!

December Contest (expires 12/20/07)

The winner of my December contest will receive a 2008 Studs 'N Spurs wall calendar (photo below).

To be entered, just send me an email and tell me who you’d like to meet under the mistletoe this year. It can be anyone but your spouse/significant other (because this is about a fantasy kiss :). Can't narrow it down to just one person? Okay, I'll let you choose two if you must.

Click HERE to visit my website for all the details of the contest. The last date for entry is December 20, 2007.




Who would I like to meet under the mistletoe? Kyle Schmid, the actor who stars in the Lifetime series, Blood Ties.



But on second thought...I'm feeling a little like a pervert now, since he’s only 23 and therefore young enough to be my son.

So, someone more age appropriate would be Roarke from J.D. Robb’s In Death series. He's just yummy!

Brighten A Soldier’s Day!

When our children were very young, my husband and I decided that one of the many things we wanted to teach them was the importance of giving back to the community. While we try to do this year-round, we always make sure to do it during the holiday season. Some years we donate items to a local charity. Some years we choose a child from the 'Angel Tree' to purchase gifts for. Some years we simply volunteer our time.

This year we decided to send some care packages (personal hygiene items, snacks, etc.) to deployed soldiers. I found numerous organizations that can assist in doing this. After visiting many different websites (and researching them to make sure they were legit!), I choose to use AnySolider.com

If you’re interested in brightening a soldier’s day, click HERE to visit AnySolider.com. At their website, you’ll find a HUGE list of units to choose from and requested items from those units. And if you’re short on funds and unable to send a care package, send a letter. Unfortunately, there are many soldiers who get very little mail, or no mail at all. A letter from someone letting them know that they are appreciated will put a smile on their face.


And finally, since I can see this coming….for anyone who feels the need to tell me that they don’t support the US involvement in Iraq (or anywhere else)--please don’t. I’m not saying I do or don’t support it, but I always support our troops and am very grateful for the sacrifices that our soldiers make.

I've Been Absent

I fully intended to blog every day this past week, but life got in the way :(

My kids got the entire week out of school for Thanksgiving and Hubby took the week off work. So with the holiday activities and everyone being home all week, I got very little accomplished, and I had to spend this week playing catch-up. But, thankfully things have settled down and are returning to normal.

Happy Thanksgiving!

November Contest Winner

I received 64 entries for my November contest. Thank you to everyone who participated!

I had my husband draw a name out of the hat, and the winner is...Melissa K. from Rhode Island. Melissa won a $10 gift card to Barnes & Noble (her choice from either Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million, or Borders Books).

Congrats, Melissa!

Please remember to check my website and blog the beginning of December for information about my next contest.

Winners of Raven Halloween Hunt and Amy’s Halloween Blog Party

I just realized that I never officially announced the winners of the Halloween activities that I participated. They were...

Raven Halloween Hunt:
Angela L. from Massachusetts won an 8-oz bottle of White Jasmine Body Lotion, and I tossed some Dove chocolate into the package too :)

Amy's Halloween Blog Party:
Pam K. from Alabama won a download of my novella, Finding Passion.

Congrats, ladies! I hope you're enjoying your prizes.

Thanks so much to Amy S. and to The Raven Blog (run by authors Michelle Pillow and Mandy Roth) for allowing me the opportunity to participate in these fun events!

November Contest (expires 11/20/07)--Win A Gift Card!

The winner of my November contest will receive a $10 gift card to either Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million, or Borders Books (winner’s choice).

The contest will run through November 20th, 2007.

Click HERE to visit my website for all the details of how to enter (it's simple, I promise!).

Good luck!

Happy Halloween!

Two Great Reviews for Finding Passion!

BrandyWine at Enchanting Reviews gave Finding Passion
5 Enchantments! Here's some of what she said:

FINDING PASSION is the perfect combination of love, lust, and marriage.

Ms. Tyner shows how we can all make mistakes but at the same time make them right by giving the person we love everything we are and treasuring everything they give back.

I rate this book a perfect 5 Enchantments.


Click HERE to read the entire review.



I also received a review from Rosemary at Joyfully Reviewed. Here's what she had to say:

Finding Passion is a lesson in lack of communication. Pamela Tyner illustrates the pain and misunderstandings that comes from not expressing your wishes. I enjoyed the sensual revelations in this second-chance love story.

Click HERE to read the entire review.

Bat Out Of Hell

Thirty years ago this month, in October 1977, Meatloaf’s Bat Out of Hell album was released.

This is my absolute favorite album. Over the years, I’ve purchased many copies of it (I wear it out and have to keep replacing it).

Even my teenage sons, who normally aren’t impressed at all with the music I listen to, love this album. So, today I’m posting videos of their favorite songs from it. The videos suck, but the songs are fantastic!

#1 son’s favorite: Two Out Of Three Ain't Bad



#2 son’s favorite: Paradise By The Dashboard Light
(I wonder if that has anything at all to do with the fact that #2 son is a baseball player, and this song includes a portion of a baseball game broadcast?)

Reminder--I’m Guest Blogging Today And Giving Away A Prize!

Just a reminder that I’m guest blogging today HERE.

Please drop by!

Leave a comment on the post and your name will be entered into a drawing for a pdf download of my novella Finding Passion. The winner will be announced on Halloween.

And while you’re there, be sure to take at look at the other authors’ guest blog posts from this month. Many of them are also giving away prizes.

Rain At Last!

We’re finally getting some rain, which is desperately needed since we’re in the middle of a drought. It’s been raining for a few days now (off and on), but it’s supposed to end today :(

They’re predicting a grand total of approximately 4 inches. Considering that our lake levels are more than 8 feet below normal, it’s a far cry from what we need, but it’s certainly better than nothing.

And at least there have been no fires here, something I'm very thankful for. I’m beginning to think that California’s just going to burn completely up.

Birth Order Characteristics/Continuation From Yesterday's Post

Characteristics of the oldest child:
* High achievers
* Perfectionist
* Responsible
* Take on a leadership role
* Play by the rules/concerned with 'fairness'
* Want approval from others


Characteristics of the middle child:
* Flexible
* Diplomatic
* Peacemaker
* Good at negotiation and compromise


Characteristics of the youngest child:
* Outgoing
* Have the ability to 'charm' others
* Risk takers
* Question authority
* Often considered spoiled, demanding, impatient, self-centered
* Remain 'the baby' by expecting others to do things for them, make decisions, and take responsibility


Characteristics of an 'only' child:
* Only children tend to have a lot of the same characteristics as oldest children.


Of course, not all children display all tendencies associated with their birth order. But, generally speaking, I think most people tend to have the majority of those traits (to some degree, at least). And I think when writing, authors benefit a great deal from being aware of the traits and incorporating them into their characters' development.

I just realized that to date every single one of my heroes and heroines have been first or only born children. I wonder if that’s because I’m an oldest child so it’s easier for me to identify with them? Hmmm. I’ll have to keep that in mind with my upcoming stories. It would be fun, I think, to write a middle or a youngest child.

Using Birth Order To Develop Characters

A few years ago, I read the book A Passionate Proposal by Emilie Rose (Silhouette Desire, August 2004). The hero (a youngest child) and the heroine (an oldest child) grew up in the same town. They meet up at their high school reunion, and here’s a part of the conversation that they share:

Hero: "What you doing now?"
Heroine: "Teaching."
Hero: "I didn’t know you wanted to teach."
Heroine: "We never discussed my plans. We focused on your goals."
Hero: "Ouch. Was I selfish SOB?"
Heroine: "No. You were the youngest in your family. The world tends to revolve around the one occupying that niche."

I smiled when I read it, because, in my opinion, it’s generally true of youngest children.

As I continued reading, I was thinking, “This author has nailed these characters.” One way she did that was by using their birth order personality traits to the fullest advantage in the story.

There are some psychologists who feel that birth order does not affect personality development, but they’re definitely in the minority. Most psychologists believe that it does, and I happen to agree with them. Of course someone’s personality is not based on birth order alone. Many other factors come into play, but I think birth order does contribute tremendously.

Come back tomorrow and let’s talk about the different traits associated with oldest, middle, youngest, and only children.

Domestic Violence Awareness AND Breast Cancer Awareness

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month AND Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

These two very important issues deserve all the attention they can get, so please take a minute to click on the links below and learn more.

National Coalition Against Domestic Violence

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

The Winner Is...

A huge thanks to everyone who participated in my October blog contest/drawing. I really enjoyed reading your comments, and I hope you’ll continue to visit my blog and share your thoughts on other subjects.

I had my husband draw a name out of the hat, and the winner is...Cynthya P. from Indiana.

Congrats, Cynthya! You should receive your prize--a copy of Bewitched, Bothered & BeVampyre--sometime next week. Happy Reading!

Please remember to check my website and blog the beginning of November for information about my next contest.

Halloween Blog Party--Win Prizes!

Amy S. is hosting a Halloween Blog Party HERE. From October 10th through the end of the month a variety of authors are guest blogging. Many are giving away prizes!

I’m scheduled to guest blog on October 28th and will be giving away a pdf download of my novella Finding Passion.

Come and join the party!

The Raven Halloween Hunt

Click HERE to play

Contest/Drawing! Tell Me Your Turn-offs

When you were dating, what thing(s) could a person do that would make you move them from the category of "I might like to date them/continue dating them" to the "Never in this lifetime would I date them/go on another date with them" category?

Here are a few of mine:
** constant bragging
** making critical/belittling remarks about others that are uncalled for
** being self-centered
You know the type--it’s all about them. Apparently as children they never learned that the world doesn’t revolve around them.
** being judgmental
I think we’re all judgmental to some degree, but some people take it to the extreme

Leave a comment on this post and tell me your turn-offs!

As an incentive, everyone who replies will be entered into a drawing for a copy of Bewitched, Bothered & BeVampyre. Since we celebrate Halloween this month, I though a book containing witches, vampires, shifters, etc, would make a very appropriate prize :) This book is a collection of short stories by twenty authors, including Gena Showalter, PC Cast, Susan Grant, MaryJanice Davidson, Vicki Lewis Thompson, Rachel Carrington, and more.

You have until October 20th to leave a comment. On October 21st, I will choose one winner at random. Be aware that if you are the winner, your name and state (or country) of residency will be posted on my blog and website.

I DO need your email address so I can contact you in the event that you win the drawing. If I can backtrack and locate an address for you (for example, an email address listed on blogger), then that’s wonderful. If not, then you need to send your email address, along with a copy of your post, to pamelatyner@hotmail.com The winner will be notified by email and will have one week to reply. If there's no reply after seven days a new winner will be drawn.

Supply And Demand

One of the basic laws of supply and demand is: when demand is greater than supply, prices rise.

Earlier this month, I was looking to purchase a paperback copy of Bewitched, Bothered & BeVampyred. This book is no longer in print, because the publisher, Triskelion Publishing, has recently gone out of business (bankruptcy). However, I hoped that I would be able to find a bookseller that still had a new copy available at a reasonable price. Thankfully, I did.

But, I was shocked at the prices some are charging for this book. $50, $75, $100, all the way up to $200. Supply and demand in action, I guess. A demand for the book + zero new supply = outrageous prices. Sadly, the authors won't see a penny of those increased prices. Or actually, the Red Cross won't see a penny, because 100% of the authors' royalties were to be donated to the Red Cross.

Why I was looking for this book? Come back tomorrow and find out!

Banned Books Week: September 29–October 6, 2007

This event is held each year to remind Americans not to take their freedom to read for granted.

If you’d like to read about my personal experience regarding a banned book, Click HERE to read my previous post on the subject.

Because I Got High

Last night my family saw the movie Disturbia. #2 son actually chose the movie, but I thought it was pretty good. There’s a song in the movie that got stuck in my head (I hate it when that happens!). So all day, I’ve been singing:

I was gonna clean my room until I got high
I was gonna get up and find the broom but then I got high
My room is still messed up and I know why
cause I got high
cause I got high
cause I got high

This was the only part of the song I knew, and I was sick of just singing the same few lines over and over again, so I looked the lyrics up on the Internet. I figured if I was going to sing it, I might as well sing the whole song.

As I was reading--okay, actually I was singing--the lyrics, I was thinking, This is kind of a depressing song. But maybe it will make kids think twice about lighting up. And since I’m always looking for ways to drive home my don’t do drugs, it will screw up your life message with my kids, I was thinking that discussing this song with them might be a good way to reemphasize the point.

And then I got to this part:

I was gonna make love to you but then I got high
I was gonna eat yo p*ssy too but then I got high
now I'm jacking off and I know why
cause I got high

Oh, my! Well, I sure won’t be discussing that part of the song with them!

If you’re interested in reading the lyrics, you can do that HERE.

Average Number Of Sexual Partners And Throat Cancer

According to this article, based on data collected from 1999 to 2002 for the National Center for Health Statistics:

The median number of lifetime female sexual partners for men was seven; the median number of male partners for women was four.

Four? Four?

I’m sure there are plenty of women who have had four or less partners, but on average...? Well, in this day and age, that number just seems kind of low to me.

But, I guess it’s an especially good thing for these women that they’ve had a low number of sexual partners, since according to this article:

People who had one to five oral-sex partners in their lifetime had approximately a doubled risk of throat cancer compared with those who never engaged in this activity – and those with more than five oral-sex partners had a 250% increased risk.

Which brings to mind this question--when participating in the survey for the National Center for Health Statistics, did these women take the Bill Clinton approach…it’s not sex unless actual penetration is involved?

Perception Of Beauty

This is a video from Dove's Campaign For Real Beauty. Take a peek. It's very interesting to say the least.



You can find out more about Dove's Campaign For Real Beauty, by clicking HERE.

Great Review for Finding Passion!

Valerie at Rites of Romance Reviews gave Finding Passion 4 Lyres!

She said:

For as short as the story was it had all the right stuff. The plot, flow, content and conclusion were all done clearly and smoothly.

This is a great quick little read!


If you’d like to read the entire review, click HERE to visit RoR's website and download the August issue of their ezine. In addition to reviews, the ezine also includes interviews, articles, and other goodies.

I'm On Fire!

Well, it feels that way anyway.

#2 son had baseball games yesterday. Yes, gameS. Two of them, back-to-back. So I spent four hours sitting in the blistering sun...90+ degrees (a full 10 degrees above normal for this time of year), no shade, no breeze...I was melting!

And now, I’m sunburned. My skin feels like it’s on fire.

On the plus side, son’s team did win both games!

Two Contests That May Interest You :)

CONTEST #1

Fellow North Carolina author (and critique partner :) Nicole North is celebrating her first sale, a novella called "Devil in a Kilt" to Red Sage Publishing for a Secrets anthology, by holding a contest.

What is the prize? Two winners will get to choose 2 books each from a list of 10 books in different subgenres (historical, contemporary, romantic suspense, chick lit, paranormal, etc).

How to enter? There are two ways. You can enter by answering the question "What's worn under a kilt?" which is posted at her blog, or by joining her Yahoo newsletter mailing list. Do both and be entered twice!

Click HERE to visit Nicole's blog all the details.

The contest runs through the end of September.


CONTEST #2

Author Linda Warren is celebrating the release of Adopted Son, by holding a contest through the end of October. There will be four winners.

The prizes are:
**Texas Ranger Teddy Bear (a Wilde & Wolly Bear especially made by Terry Spear, who in addition, to being a talented bear creator, is a fabulous author, and another one of my critique partners :)
**Handmade Baby Quilt made by Marlene Urso
**Cowboy Jewelry in a Red Boot
**a stuffed dog that barks

Click HERE to visit Linda’s website for all the details.

The Winner Is...

A huge thanks to everyone who entered my September contest! I received over 50 entries.

I had my hubby draw a name out of the hat, and the winner is....Denise M. from Nebraska.

Congrats, Denise! You should receive your prize--an assortment of some yummy chocolates--sometime next week. Enjoy!

Please remember to check my website and blog the beginning of October for information about my next contest, as well as information about a few special Halloween activities that I’ll be participating in.

Winning Wednesdays at Whisper Your Fantasies Group

On September 12th, Whispers Publishing will begin Winning Wednesdays.

The Whispers' authors will pop into the Whisper Your Fantasies Group throughout the day and tell you something about themselves which is not posted on their website. At the end of the day, all readers will have until Friday to gather up all the responses and e-mail them (at an address provided at the group) for a chance to win some prizes.

If you're not already a member of the group, join now by sending a blank e-mail to: whispersauthors-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

We hope to see you there!

September Contest (ends 09/20/07)--Win Chocolate!

This month I’m celebrating my first year as a published author. In September 2006, my debut book, Her Protector, was released from New Concepts Publishing. I was extremely pleased with the reception of this book. It received some excellent reviews, including a 'recommended read' from Rites of Romance Reviews. It also received the 'Best First eBook of 2006' award from EcataRomance.

So, since I’m celebrating--and what’s a celebration without chocolate--the winner of my September contest will receive an assortment of some of my favorite kinds of chocolate (includes Ghirardelli Chocolate Squares, Lindt Lindor Truffles, and a Godiva Chocolate Bar).

Contest entry will require reading the blurb and a short excerpt from Her Protector, and correctly answering two brief questions.

The contest will run through September 20, 2007. One entry per person please.

Click HERE to visit my website, then click on the contest button for the full details.

Good luck!

My First Reviews for Finding Passion

Brenda at The Romance Studio gave Finding Passion 4 & 1/2 hearts!

Here’s what she had to say:

This short story is packed with explosive sexual situations and tear-inducing arguments. There are few other characters involved; however, the couple managed to captivate this audience with their multiple circumstances that helped them work on the disastrous state of their marriage. Even though short in words, the plot is solid and believable. It was a quick story which is perfect for a lunch hour read.

Ms. Pamela Tyner has written a great book which reminds us how important communication is to any type relationship. I recommend you read Finding Passion as quickly as possible.

Click HERE to read the entire review.



I also received a review from Maura at Coffee Time Romance. Here's what she had to say:

This is a sensual story of a couple at a crossroads. Long working hours and her family have torn the two apart until they are more like roommates than a married couple.

...this is a very well written and entertaining story.

Click HERE to read the entire review.

Want Some Free Bookmarks?

I received my bookmarks today for both Finding Passion and Her Protector. I’m eager to give some away! All you have to do is send your name and address to pamelatyner@hotmail.com. Please put 'bookmarks' in the subject line.

What I'm Reading

Currently Reading: Match Me If You Can by Susan Elizabeth Phillips

Why I chose to read it: A few months ago I read Ain't She Sweet? by Ms. Phillips, and at the back of the book was a excerpt for Match Me If You Can. I loved the excerpt, so I bought the book.



Reading Next: A Hunger like No Other by Kresley Cole

Why I chose to read it: Someone gave me this book almost a year ago, and it’s been sitting in my to-be-read stack ever since (yes, that's a long time, but my to-be-read stack is huge). Recently I saw that it won the 2007 RITA Award for Best Paranormal Romance, and that convinced me to move it to the top of the stack.

It's Not Public Domain?

On this day in 1963, Dr. Martin Luther King gave his famous "I have a dream" speech in Washington, DC, which is considered by many (myself included) to be one of the greatest speeches in American history.

In honor of that, I had hoped to post a video of the speech in its entirety, but I nixed that plan after reading THIS article (The Washington Post, January 15, 2006) which states that Dr. King’s speeches are not public domain. They are owned by his family and "those who want to hear or use the speech in its entirety must buy a copy sanctioned by the King family, which receives the proceeds."

I can certainly understand that the family doesn’t want others to make money off of Dr. King’s speeches, but by denying people the right to even hear them (unless they pay for it)...well, there’s an entire generation of kids who may never hear this very powerful, inspiring speech (although they might hear small portions of it).

I am not criticizing the family for their decision, because I have no right to do that. The situation just makes me sad. And I have to wonder if maybe Dr. King himself would have been sadden by it. Personally, I think he might have been.

Something To Make You Smile

A man and his wife were working in their garden. As she was bent over pulling some weeds, he said, "Your butt’s getting huge. I bet it’s bigger than the barbecue."

With that, he proceeded to get a measuring tape and measured the grill. Then he went over to where his wife was working and measured her rear. "I was right, your butt is two inches wider than the barbecue!"

The woman chose to ignore her husband, and she continued with her work.

Later that night in bed, the husband felt a little frisky. He cuddled up to his wife and started to kiss her neck. She looked over her shoulder at him and said, "If you think I'm going to fire up this big-ass grill for one little weenie, you better think again."

Guess What I Did Today....

Here’s a hint:



This was my first experience with this procedure, and while it wasn’t pleasant, it wasn’t nearly as horrible as I had imagined it would be.

If you’re over 39, and haven’t gotten yours yet this year, call and schedule it, because it is important to do. Besides, if I had to go through it, you should too :)

Percentage Who Agree/Disagree With My Pet Peeve

I thought you might be interested in knowing how many people agreed/disagreed with my pet peeve.

For those who didn’t read the interview (and go read it!), when asked if I have any pet peeves, my reply was: "I have a few, but my biggest one these days is when someone uses text message spelling, such as 'u' for 'you', in anything other than a text message. It just makes me cringe."

In order to enter my August contest, people had to tell me if this is also one of their pet peeves. They could either state simply 'I agree' or 'it doesn't bother me' or they could elaborate on their answer. For those who elaborated, thank you! I enjoyed reading your thoughts on the issue.

61% stated that they also dislike it (although maybe not to the degree that I do). 39% stated that it doesn’t bother them at all.

So, I was pondering why this might bother some and not others. I think:
1) Maybe it’s an age issue. Maybe those who are younger find it more acceptable, because it’s pretty much always been the norm. Note: I’m not saying I’m old! But, I didn’t grow up in the age of text messaging either.
2) Maybe those who use text message abbreviations more often aren’t bothered by it, because it’s easier for them to read. Part of my frustration is that it takes me 5 minutes to decipher something that I could read in 1 minute if all the words were spelled properly.
3) Maybe I’m just anal :) It could have something to do with the fact that as a writer I have to spell correctly.

At any rate, I suppose I’d better learn to get used to it, because I don’t think this trend will disappear anytime in the near future.

August Contest Winner/Reminder for RJ Summer Fantasy Contest

I received over 40 entries for my August contest. A huge thanks to everyone who entered!

I had my youngest son draw a name out of the hat, and the winner is....Dawn M. from the UK.

Dawn won a Fictionwise gift certificate for a download of my novella Finding Passion from Whispers Publishing AND a download of a second novella from Whispers Publishing of her choice. She chose the book Derailed by Rhiannon Neeley.

Congrats, Dawn! I hope you enjoy the books.

Please remember to check my website and blog the beginning of September for information about my next contest.

In the meantime, don’t forget about the Romance Junkies Summer Fantasy Contest that I’m participating in. You can find details about it by visiting my website HERE and clicking on the contest link. The last date for entries is August 31st.

August Contest (ends 08/20/07)

The winner of my August contest will receive a gift certificate from Fictionwise (you must have a Fictionwise account, but it’s free and easy to set up) for a download of my novella Finding Passion from Whispers Publishing AND a download of a second novella from Whispers Publishing of their choice.

Here’s how you can be entered in the drawing:
When Cassandra from Coffee Time Romance interviewed me, she asked if I have any pet peeves. Send me an email and tell me what I said is my biggest pet peeve these days, and also tell me if it’s one of yours. A simple "I agree" or "it doesn’t bother me" will suffice, but please feel free to expand on your answer if you wish.

Visit my website HERE for more details. Please note that you must be 18 or older to enter the contest!

The contest will run through August 20th, 2007.

Good luck!

Two Interviews!

I was excited this month to do my very first author interview with Cassandra at Coffee Time Romance. You can find the interview HERE.

My excitement was then doubled when I did a second interview with Tammy at Fallen Angel Reviews. You can find that interview HERE.

Huge thanks to both Coffee Time Romance and Fallen Angel Reviews!

Need Glasses?

I was surfing the internet recently, and I came across this video. It made me smile, so I thought I’d share it with you.

Warning: Do not play in the presence of children!

Shelfari--A Cool Website for Readers

Have you heard about this website: www.shelfari.com

I recently created a page over there, which you can find here: www.shelfari.com/pamelatyner

This is a really cool website. You can create a bookshelf and add books to it that you’ve read or that you want to read. If you wish, you can write comments/reviews for the books. You can also find other members with the same book(s) on their shelf, so you can talk to them about the book(s) and/or browse their shelf to see other books they liked (similar reading taste and all that).

My only complaint about it is that you can’t add ebooks to your bookshelf, but I’m hoping they will add that capability soon.

If you’re a reader and you haven’t checked this site out yet, then you really should :) And if you join, please feel free to add me as a friend!

Darwin Award Nominee

For those who aren't familiar with the Darwin Awards: Named in honor of Charles Darwin, the father of evolution, the Darwin Awards commemorate those who improve our gene pool by removing themselves from it.

Here's one of the 2007 Darwin Award Nominees:

(20 June 2007, South Carolina) An hour before sunrise, a 21 year-old couple was found naked in the road by a passing cabbie. The unconscious, injured pair was taken to the nearest hospital where, despite treatment, they died without regaining consciousness. Authorities were at a loss to explain what had happened. There were no witnesses, no trace of clothing, and no wrecked cars or motorcycles.

Investigators eventually found a clue high on the roof of a nearby building: two sets of neatly folded clothes, and nothing else. There was no indication of foul play, only of foreplay. "It appears as if the two individuals have accidentally fallen off the roof," Sgt. Florence McCants said.

Safe sex takes on a whole new meaning when you are perched on the edge of a pyramid-shaped metal roof! This is a true Darwin Award trifecta: TWO people die, WHILE in the act of procreation, due to an ASTONISHINGLY poor decision. Bottom line: If you put yourself in a precarious "position" at the edge of the roof, you may well find yourself coming and going at the same time.

< shaking head at the stupidity of some people >

If you'd like to read more about the Darwin Awards, click HERE.

I Got Tagged

I got tagged by Tara Nichols. Thanks, lady ;)

I'm supposed to list 8 facts/hobbies about myself, so here we go...

1) I have a thing for cowboys, and I’m sure most people have already guessed that about me.

2) I also have a thing for cops. I think it’s the whole 'serve and protect' pledge ;)

3) I love broccoli.

4) Heights make me extremely uneasy and nervous.

5) Other than my wedding ring and watch, I rarely wear jewelry.

6) I dislike horror movies/books, because I don’t enjoy being scared. In other words--I’m a big chicken.

7) I’m practically computer illiterate. If it requires anything beyond very basic knowledge, it takes me forever to figure it out.

8) Every time I see a kid with their pants hanging halfway down their butt, I have this urge to go pull them up. Thankfully, so far, I’ve been able to resist doing it.

Failed Attempt at Making a Book Trailer

I should have been writing today. Instead, I spent the day trying to create a book trailer. I spent a good amount of time messing around with this--looking for photos to use, learning how to use Movie Maker (which I knew nothing about this morning), etc. I learned a good bit, but the end result...not too impressive.

Someday when I have more time, I may go back and work on it some more.

America's Got Talent--Part Two

Three of the four contestants that I liked from last week’s show are going on! The cowboy didn’t make it :(

Here’s who I liked from this week:


Fault Line
I thought they were great.



Cas Haley
Great voice, and he’s just so darn likable.



Jason Pritchett
I think he should have chosen a different song, but he can definitely sing, and he has one hell of a stage presence.



The Duttons
Yes, I liked these people!



Southern Girls
Personally, I didn't like the song that they choose, but they have beautiful voices.

Readers vs Listeners

Was anyone standing in line at midnight waiting for the Harry Potter book to go on sale? I wasn't this time--we waited until the next day to go pick it up--but we did it when the last book came out.

But speaking of Harry...

Not long ago, I had a child tell me that he had read all the Harry Potter books. It certainly appeared that he had because he knew the books (the characters, the plots, etc). Later I mentioned it to his mother, and she told me that he hadn’t actually read the books, he had listened to the audiobooks. In fact, he was seeing a reading tutor because he was struggling in school due to the fact that his reading skills were so far below grade level.

Which brings me to this question: Are you a 'reader' if instead of actually reading a book you listen to the audiobook?

Personally, I think there is a big difference between the two, especially where children are concerned. Now for an adult who CAN read...listen away. But kids need to be reading. That’s just my personal opinion, of course.

Now with all that said, let me admit to two things:

1) I’ve only read two of the Harry Potter books, and I struggled to get through them. However, I love the movies. I like the characters, I like the plots, I think they’re wonderful stories. But I don’t like the author’s writing style. Of course, there are millions of people in the world who do :) #1 Son is the Harry Potter reader in our family. He’s read each book numerous times--to the point where I have to keep replacing them because they fall apart. So, he reads the books and then tells me what happened.

2) I’ve never listened to an audiobook. I just prefer reading. People have suggested listening to them in the car, but in the car I enjoy listening to music, since that’s basically the only time I do listen to music. However, I am considering buying an audiobook and trying it.

Get Your Facts Straight!

I try not to blog about political type issues, although it’s hard, because I do try to stay informed about current topics, and I love to discuss these issues with others. However, I’m not sure that my blog is an appropriate place to talk about these things.

Today however, I’m going to talk (somewhat) about a legal case. But I’m going to try to talk about it without getting specific, because this post is not really about the case itself, but about people forming opinions without having all the facts.

There is a legal case that has received a good bit of attention over the past few years. There’s been a recent development that’s once again put it in the media spotlight. Recently, I was somewhere where a group of people were discussing this case, and they were outraged by what they considered an injustice. I mean these people were pissed. I almost expected one of them to say, "Let’s drive down to (such-and-such state), picket in the street, and start a riot!"

During the course of the conversation, one of them said, "According the law, xxx." And they were completely wrong. The law does not say xxx, it says zzz (boy, it’s hard to talk about this without giving specifics!). One issue which they had failed to take into account--the laws do vary somewhat by state. And then it became apparent that they were missing important pieces of information about the case. Information that had the potential to change everything.

I’m a firm believer in everyone’s right to have an opinion, even if their opinion is in direct contrast with my own :) But, please get your facts straight. Make an effort to obtain all the facts, and the correct facts, before you form an opinion.

And in this case, obtaining all the facts wasn’t that difficult because it’s been reported in the media many times. All they had to do was goggle it and take the time to study it.

America's Got Talent

I’m not a big TV watcher. When I do watch TV, I rarely watch the 'talent' shows, because I don’t particularly care for them. Although, I did watch one episode of American Idol last year, because I was curious about Sanjaya--it seemed like everybody was talking about him.

But I have been watching America’s Got Talent. Want to know who I liked in last week’s show?


The Glamazons

I LOVE this group. They're very talented ladies, and I love their confidence and their attitude.



Julienne Irwin

This young lady has an incredible raw, natural talent. On top of that, she is absolutely adorable.



Sideswipe

These guys are just plain fun.



Johnny Lonestar

Yes, I liked the cowboy :) I think his act is very entertaining, and I love his smile.


If you've been watching this show, who do you like?

The Winner Is….

A huge thanks to everyone who entered my July contest!

I had my hubby draw a name out of the hat, and the winner is....Tara W.

Congrats, Tara! I have a Passion for Women by Elizabeth Taylor Gift Set to be mailed to you. I sent you an email requesting your address. You have one week to respond.

Please remember to check my website and blog the beginning of August for information about my next contest.

July Contest (ends 07/20/07)

To celebrate the release of my novella, Finding Passion, the winner of my July contest will receive a Passion for Women by Elizabeth Taylor 2 Piece Gift Set, which includes 1.5 oz Passion Eau de Toilette Spray & 6.8 oz Body Lotion.

To be entered in the drawing, just send me an email and tell me the name of the hero and heroine of Finding Passion (the answer can be found on my website).

The contest will run through July 20th, 2007.

Visit my website HERE and click on the contest page for all the details.

Good luck!

And don’t forget about the Romance Junkies Summer Fantasy Contest which I’m participating in. You will find details about that on my contest page as well.