We’ve Come a Long Way, Baby!
Feb 14th 2008
Your Friendly GoddessesGoddess Classics
Happy Valentine’s Day to all Goddesses and visitors to Mount Oly! And Happy Birthday to us!
Can you believe how time has flown over the past year? It seems like only an eyeblink ago when Soon To Be Goddess Karen Hawkins caucused with Nearly Almost Goddess Sabrina Jeffries and invited some of their near and dear author friends to participate in a brand new adventure in the Internet world. Thus, The Goddess Blogs Dot Com was born one year ago today on Valentine’s Day.
And then many wonderful other Goddesses joined us on Mount Oly to talk about love, life, heroes and heroines, books, and everything else under the sun.
What a splendid adventure it has been! We’ve enjoyed loads of fun and laughter, met great new friends, and shared our love of romances with kindred spirits who understand our passion. Thank you all for making it a super year!
So now it’s time to take a brief look back and take stock of what’s happened with us since last Valentine’s Day – and then look to the future. Therefore, lovely Goddesses, answer any or all of the following questions…
In the past year what would you say is your:
1. Proudest achievement?
2. Most embarrassing moment?
3. Best learning experience?
4. Happiest time?
And…
5. What are you most looking forward to over the next year?
6. Any special birthday wish(s) for your fellow Goddesses?
100 Comments »
Maggie Robinson on 14 Feb 2008 at 8:07 am #
1. Proudest achievement? Having a full manuscript requested and placing first with another one in a contest.
2. Most embarrassing moment? Posting something I shouldn’t have here!
3. Best learning experience? Revising something I wrote over a year ago, discovering it was bad but not dead.
4. Happiest time? Being present for my granddaughter Sadie’s birth!
And…
5. What are you most looking forward to over the next year? Watching Sadie grow, spending time with my family.
6. Any special birthday wish(s) for your fellow Goddesses? May the clouds on Mt. Olympus provide cool shade for contemplation and continued success!
cail on 14 Feb 2008 at 8:20 am #
Happy Birthday TGB!!!
1. Proudest achievement? got a new job
2. Most embarrassing moment? i’ve clearly repressed this
3. Best learning experience? interestingly, i’d say that i learned that love can be right infront of you and you might not notice it.
4. Happiest time? i’d say the last 6 months have been wonderful
5. What are you most looking forward to over the next year? vacations, spending sunday lounging with my guy, my friend’s new baby that will arrive this summer…
6. Any special birthday wish(s) for your fellow Goddesses? health, happiness and their own real live romance stories.
Gannon on 14 Feb 2008 at 8:21 am #
1. Proudest achievement? Having all three of my children receive awards at their schools in San Diego, before we moved.
2. Most embarrassing moment? Hmmm, nothing immediately comes to mind, but I’m sure I can come with several if I think about it.
3. Best learning experience? That renovating a house never goes as smoothly as you think or is completed on time. I’ve just learned to go with the flow. It’s either that or go crazy!
4. Happiest time? Last Valentine’s Day, when my dh returned home after a year long deployment!
5. What are you most looking forward to over the next year? Enjoying our new home now that the work is (almost) finished and exploring the area with my family. Pursuing a possible business opportunity.
6. Any special birthday wish(es) for your fellow Goddesses? May your days be filled with happiness, success, and yummy FROS hotties to cater to your every whim!
ladydawgfan on 14 Feb 2008 at 8:42 am #
1. Proudest achievement? The class I took updating my AutoCad and losing 3 pants sizes in my weight loss attempt.
2. Most embarrassing moment? As with Maggie, posting something I shouldn’t have. They really should have an “edit” button on these pages for second thoughts!!
3. Best learning experience? The aforementioned ACad class. Loved it!!
4. Happiest time? Any time I have been on this blog with my fellow Goddesses. Also last summer when I was down in Mississippi visiting friends whom I hadn’t seen in 3 years.
5. What are you most looking forward to over the next year? Continuing to lose weight, visiting family and friends, finding a job in my field.
6. Any special birthday wish(s) for your fellow Goddesses? The happiest of Birthdays to all of the Goddesses on Mt Oly and their handmaidens. May Zeus smile on your creativity, and may he point his finger and ZAP all those critics who can’t keep their venom in their pens RE your books, which we love!!!!
Karen Hawkins on 14 Feb 2008 at 8:44 am #
Oh, I have a lot of birthday wishes for all of the goddesses!
1. Proudest Achievement: Getting both of my kids on a happier, more even keel as they settle into their new schools. Whew! It was a rough Fall, but things are great now!
2. Most Embarrassing Moment: I’m blogging about it later, so I can’t say.
3. Best Learning Experience: Working with Handmaiden Kim who is helping me to get organized and be more proactive in my business life. She’s a doll and sooooo together!
4. Happiest Time: Taking my kids to Italy and hearing them say, “I love this!”
5. Most Looking Forwards To This Year: Writing new and exciting books and visiting everyday with you guys. You all are the bright beginning of my days!
6. Special Birthday Wishes? Happy Birthday to us all! May everyone have an even better year this coming one, may your star shine even brighter, your family be even healthier and happier, and may you spit coffee all over your computer at least once a week!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, GODDESSES!
KariE on 14 Feb 2008 at 8:48 am #
1. Proudest achievement? Getting over my nervousness about chatting with the women that write the books that I love to read.
2. Most embarrassing moment? There are many. Probably any time I make a typo and realize it after I hit the submit button. Then of course there are the stupid comments I have made.
3. Best learning experience? Even though I make stupid comments, I’m still welcomed. I’ve learned that I will never find a more wonderful group of women to talk about nothing and everything with. Thanks ladies!!!
4. Happiest time? When I won my autographed book by Goddess Julia London. I was literally star struck when I got it. I think it will now be my mission to get one from every Goddess now. Not sure how, but I will try.
5. What are you most looking forward to over the next year? The laughs. I am fortunate to work from home so I get to laugh out loud a LOT!!!
(cont)
KariE on 14 Feb 2008 at 8:49 am #
6. Any special birthday wish(s) for your fellow Goddesses? Happy Birthday Goddesses!! I wish you everything you’ve earned and dreamed. Also, neverending FROS!!!
KariE on 14 Feb 2008 at 8:55 am #
ALMOST FORGOT…..I am sporting my pin today!!! All day long!!!! Even to the store. It’s our birthday, I’ll do what I want to!
SnikyWhite on 14 Feb 2008 at 9:22 am #
1. Proudest achievement? Finishing my audition piece for the owner of a production company. Hopefully at some point soon, my proudest achievement will be my acceptance as a staff writer.
2. Most embarassing moment? the one that comes to mind is sitting in church and trying to fix my jeans so that my underwear wouldn’t show but realizing AFTER the service that i wasn’t pulling up my jeans, but actually pulled my underwear all the way up on the sides…that explained the wedgie too.
3. Best Learning Experience? this year i gave my heart away completely, and though it didn’t end how i planned or how i wanted, i have learned more about myself and what love can be because i went all in.
4. Happiest time? All of the time hanging with my girls (kari and our other muskateer) and getting to know you ladies every day.
5. Most looking forward to? The future. Seeing where this path is going to lead. Life is looking really good right now.
SnikyWhite on 14 Feb 2008 at 9:25 am #
(continued…I’m long winded)
6. Special Wish? Happiness in any storm, laughter being the cause of any tears, success in every area you reach for it AND finally, another fantastic year to spend getting to know all of you Goddesses or Handmaidens, Groupies or Lurkers here on the Mt. everyone holds a special place in my heart! Thank you for welcoming me into your group.
SuzyQ on 14 Feb 2008 at 9:49 am #
1. Proudest achievement? Getting to help out KarenR with some research for her book. Thanks Karen!
2. Most embarrassing moment? Telling my daughter to be careful on the ice and not to fall, only to wipe out myself (in front of the parents at school)
3. Best learning experience? Taking a belly dance class.
4. Happiest time? Vacationing with my family. No work, no schedules, just pure fun.
5. What are you most looking forward to over the next year? Continued health and happiness and watching my kids grow everyday. Also all the fun times here on the Mt.
6. Any special birthday wish(s) for your fellow Goddesses? Happy Happy Birthday to all!!! May all your dreams and wishes come true!
Sabrina Jeffries on 14 Feb 2008 at 9:53 am #
Will do my full post later (have to get ready for lunch with Deb Marlowe and a Valentine’s Day signing/panel at Eva Perry Library in Cary at 1 pm), but I just wanted to say that I missed all these embarrassing moments on the blog, so clearly they weren’t as bad as you think!
Y’all are the best, and if I had a dime for every time I’ve put my foot in my own mouth, well, let’s just say that the writing gig wouldn’t be necessary!
Lisa H on 14 Feb 2008 at 10:07 am #
Hi Ladies!!! Happy Birthday!!!! Happy Anniversary to me, today is MY 15 YEAR anniversary….whew….
1. Proudest Acheivement - My son making the high honor roll (his acheivement really) and me having 2 publishers ask for my mms.
2. Embarassing moment- I discussed it on another blog, the time I was waitressing and thought a man’s wife was his “little boy” Ugh!
3. Best learning experience - comments received from contests I entered which helped me see some errors in my writing.
4. I am looking forward to: going to NJRW Conf. in the fall, going away for the weekend with my 2 girlfriends the end of the month and potty training my 2 1/2 year old.
5. Happiest Time - Playing with 2 1/2 year old—trip we took to Disney world last spring.
6. Special wishes - Keep writing ladies…you are all awesome, warm, funny and talented women, and I love you guys!
Nicole Jordan on 14 Feb 2008 at 10:10 am #
Y’all are awesome!!! Those are amazing achievements. And your wishes for your fellow goddesses are just lovely.
1. Proudest achievement? Managing to stay relatively sane while finishing two books, starting a third, totally revamping a website, starting to blog with all you great Goddesses, buying a new horse, more fixes on the house….
2. Most embarrassing moment? I’ve had several, but one is hitting reply to an e-mail that I meant to foward, so I ended up saying things about the original poster to her face. The other is mistaking an acquaintence’s new boyfriend for her ex and recalling a time when they were last together. Boy, did I have egg on my face!
3. Best learning experience? Getting over my butterflies and learning to regularly blog here in public. You guys make it easy!
4. Happiest time? I think I’ve been too busy to be happy!
5. What are you most looking forward to over the next year? Taking time to smell the roses and watch the sunsets from our greatroom window.
6. Any special birthday wish(s) for your fellow Goddesses? You all have said it so beautifullly, I’m just gonna steal your wishes and say ditto! Love you guys!
SuzyQ on 14 Feb 2008 at 10:23 am #
Happy Anniversary Lisa!
Kim on 14 Feb 2008 at 10:33 am #
KarenH–awww! Thanks. You’re a sweetie and its truly an honor to work with you and all the Goddesses! smooches!
1. Proudest achievement? That’s tough. I actually had a couple. 1. Hitting 20 years together with my DH. Tuesday is our 17th wedding anniversary too. YAY. 2. Taking something I love passionately and being able to do it everyday with people I admire and look up to like non-other. Everyday it takes my breath away that I can be this happy.
2. Most embarrassing moment? Well, the long john post is right up there. As is bowing to SEP and blanking on Erin McCarthy’s name in the elevator at RWA.
3. Best learning experience? Actually listening to my friends and getting over my fears so I’m able to admit that Yes! I do want to write.
4. Happiest time? Everyday! I get to work in my pj’s and have long lunches with my Valentine. Oh, and mail time! I love getting the mail. LOL Dallas RWA was a stellar week and I’m still floating on the high from it.
Kim on 14 Feb 2008 at 10:37 am #
cont…
And…
5. What are you most looking forward to over the next year? San Fran RWA! Its going to be awesome!
6. Any special birthday wish(s) for your fellow Goddesses?
Of course! Its been such a wonderful thing to be brought onboard with such a great, fun community, Goddesses. Truly every day you give us is a gift. There’s something special here where we can all be silly and make naughty jokes. Its always a day filled with laughter and comraderie. I look forward to many more years of Goddess love and laughter. Happy Birthday Goddesses! xoxo
Kim on 14 Feb 2008 at 10:37 am #
Happy Anniversary LisaH! Hope you’re feeling good enough to celebrate with your special Valentine.
LauraR on 14 Feb 2008 at 10:50 am #
Happy Anniversary everyone! I’m so glad I found you.
Freshechelle on 14 Feb 2008 at 10:50 am #
I’ll answer the great questions later, right now I have a near miss to report. I’m walking out the door this morning, coat and scarf on, keys in hand, when it hit me it’s freakin’ VD. And me in my red lace tank and red sweater. I was an hour late for work today because I refuse to be the office cliche - a single girl of wearing red on VD. Now, properly attired in my black sweater with the “Kristi Yamaguchi” sleeves, I can have a productive, romance-free day. Valentine’s Day blows when you’re single.
Sherri Browning Erwin on 14 Feb 2008 at 10:59 am #
Congratulations on your first year! Best wishes to all goddesses everywhere.
1. Proudest achievement? My invitation to be a guest goddess, of course.
2. Most embarrassing moment? People realizing that I reviewed one of my own books on Amazon because I brazenly (okay, stupidly) posted my real name. Never again.
3. Best learning experience? Julia London is older and wiser. (okay, I just said that to work in the fact that she is older- neener!)
4. Happiest time? Spending the end of August with my family at Disney World, our happy place.
And…
5. What are you most looking forward to over the next year? Reading all the new goddess books, of course. (angling for an invite to return as a guest goddess- too obvious?)
6. Any special birthday wish(s) for your fellow Goddesses? Much success, glory, love, and joy to you all.
SnikyWhite on 14 Feb 2008 at 11:00 am #
Fresh- I too am single this Valentine’s Day, however, coining the phrase I learned here on the Mount, I am CELEBRATING Single Awareness Day!!! I have literally made a logo, submitted some card ideas to hallmark and am determined that not having a date today is not going to make me sad. (The way I feel about myself after eating a calorie filled dinner followed by cake however, is up for some debate) Enjoy your day Fresh!!
(but um, can you explain “Kristi Yamaguchi” sleeves?)
ladydawgfan, the Valentine's Scrooge on 14 Feb 2008 at 11:06 am #
Yes, Fresh, Valentine’s Day DOES blow chunks when you are single!!! I have never had cause to celebrate it, being single every time it came around, so I usually celebrate it in cynically, with red sweater and heart socks. This year I went one better - a migraine that hit about an hour ago!!! God bless the person who discovered Zomig!!!
claudia dain on 14 Feb 2008 at 11:13 am #
I love this place!! I don’t know, we may give Disney a run for the money as the happiest place on earth. And it’s so much easier to get here, too!
Proudest moment: being asked to be a goddess. I mean it. It’s sappy, but true. Being a part of such a great group of women is a privilege and a delight.
Embarrassing moment: being the neat goddess. Being neat…conjures up images of a button-downed kill-joy. Okay, so I believe in using coasters, but I’m a fun girl. Really. Just use a coaster, ‘k?
Learning experience: that the book will come. No matter how I fight the book, no matter how I try to slam it into the shape I *think* it should have, it will fight me back. And win.
Happiest time: right now. My kids are thriving, my husband adores me (and why shouldn’t he?), and the dog follows me from room to room.
Looking forward to…getting better and better at letting the book have its way with me.
Happy Birthday fellow goddesses! I’m so glad we have this place to hang together.
Ellen on 14 Feb 2008 at 11:15 am #
1. Proudest achievement? Befriending an elderly patient in the local veterans’ nursing home. AND having Julia London complement my writing.
2. Most embarrassing moment? Sheeesh…the day is young! I guess my most current embarrassment was writing “pee soup” on a day when we had a guest goddess.
3. Best learning experience? Blogging. Didn’t even know it existed before my dear girl, Karen Rose, invited me to visit.
4. Happiest time? Vacationing in Maine with my men was great. I also have to include those afternoons I shot soda through my nose laughing at you gals.
5. What are you most looking forward to over the next year? Writing a new novel and marketing my completed manuscript.
6. Any special birthday wish(s) for your fellow Goddesses? Stay healthy and happy and laugh until you “pea” your pants.
Ellen on 14 Feb 2008 at 11:18 am #
I am also looking forward to reading Karen Hawkins “To Catch a Highlander.” I am flying to Spain and Morocco this weekend and plan to read it on the plane. I’ll be back in 10 days. Can I pick up anything for you while I’m there?
elsiehogarth on 14 Feb 2008 at 11:19 am #
Happy Valentine’s Day Everyone! Happy Anniversary to all the Goddesses!
Proudest Achievement: Seeing an article I wrote, in March’s, Romantic Times magazine. It wasn’t an achievement, it was a shock.
Most embarrassing moment: Too many to list
Best Learning Experiencing: Some people just want someone to listen to them while they vent–don’t judge, don’t comment just listen.
Happiest Time: Spending time with my niece-Julianna because I really enjoy hearing her laugh and it makes me smile.
Looking forward to in the year: I do have a project that I am working on and I hope that it will bring fruit in 2008. I’m just keeping it under my hat for now.
Wishes for the Goddess: All the best in health, happiness, creative writing and lots of love on this special day. I know Aphrodite and Cupid are very busy today.
claudia dain on 14 Feb 2008 at 11:22 am #
Oh, Ellen! Spain and Morocco? How fun! Have a great time. Come back with lots of stories to make us pea.
Nicole Jordan on 14 Feb 2008 at 11:24 am #
That “pee” soup was a really good one, Ellen. But at least you can laugh about it now! Spain and Morocco? That sounds so cool. Is it vacation? Can you bring us back pics?
Elsie, super cool about your article in RT!!! We’ll have to go look it up. What page is it on?
SnikyWhite on 14 Feb 2008 at 11:35 am #
OOO Ellen, could you bring me back something tall, dark and handsome? I promise I won’t bring up “pee soup” ever again if you do
(Yes, I will resort to bribery for a fling with a foreigner. Desperate? Perhaps.)
KariE on 14 Feb 2008 at 11:37 am #
Ellen- You can pick me up on your way out of town!! I will be your bag handler. I will be your lady’s maid. I will rub your feet when you return from sightseeing. I wanna go!!!! But I will settle for pictures. Lots of pictures.
Ellen on 14 Feb 2008 at 11:45 am #
Thanks Claudia and Nicole. Yes it is a vacation and I promise to take tons of photos.
Mia Rose on 14 Feb 2008 at 11:50 am #
Proudest achievement? I think getting married and buying our first home ties with eachother. They’re both such a big deal to me, I can’t pick just one.
Most embarrassing moment? HA, I wore 6″ heels on my wedding day (I have pics on my myspace page) and while dancing with an intoxicated dancer, I fell flat on my ass. That’s just one of many I’m sure…
Best learning experience? Everything I’ve learned about writing, the writing world, & myself as I persue it all. Not to mention, I learned that blogging could be a ton of fun. Who knew.
Happiest time? I’ve had so many! The wedding, Garth :), housewarming party, birthday parties, New Years. I can’t pick just one!
What are you most looking forward to over the next year? RWA in San Fran for sure. I am beyond excited. I’m a nut case.
Any special birthday wish(s) for your fellow Goddesses?
LIVE WELL, LAUGH OFTEN, LOVE MUCH.
And do it with a big glass of wine.
Ellen on 14 Feb 2008 at 11:51 am #
Should the “tall dark and handsome” be wearing a Fez and nothing else? LOL I wish all my “gees” could come with me…what a hoot we would have. Maybe it’s for the best. I kinda think that the combination of Sniky, Kari and Ellen would result in some seedy Moroccan jail time.
“But your honor…we were just admiring his, um, Fez.”
Freshechelle on 14 Feb 2008 at 11:52 am #
Sniky, love your Hallmark card idea!!! I’d buy a few.
My Kristi Yamagucih sleeves - they’re 3/4 length, fitted to just below the elbow, with a flounce on the ends. Like every junior skater’s costume or a low key “engangeante” (finally using the Fashion History course from college). More answer than you wanted, eh? Did you get yourself a rearview mirror for your computer? I should have sent you one for VD.
Thanks to Sniky and Ladydawg for helping form the HeWoman Valentine Haters Club/support group. Did I mention I lost my blackberry in a cab this morning? It’s gonna be a great day.
Ellen on 14 Feb 2008 at 11:59 am #
Claudia…Embrace your neatness. I have. For years, all my messy friends have tried to use terms like “control freak” and “anal” to describe my need for a clean spot. I have decided to turn the table on them. I think they are messy because they are trying to hide something…maybe under one of those “piles” they so love to surround themselves in. LOL
Live clean, Baby!
Nicole Jordan on 14 Feb 2008 at 12:00 pm #
So sorry about your migraine, Ladydf. That just ads insult to injury.
I can see why VDay would be no fun if you’re single or in a bad relationship. On the other hand, I never have understood the appeal of VDay. My dh and I never ever do anything special, don’t give cards or flowers or chocolate or anything. So from my perspective you’re not missing much.
However, I can see why you would call VDay special, LisaH. Congrats on your fifteen years! That’s a huge milestone!
>>>I am CELEBRATING Single Awareness Day!!!
Love this, Snik! As much as I love my dh, there are times when I also love sending him off somewhere so I can be single for a little while.
Nicole Jordan on 14 Feb 2008 at 12:02 pm #
Ahem, ladies. I don’t believe anyone can beat me for the title of Anal Control Freak. Claudia and Ellen, I challenge you to a match.
Ellen on 14 Feb 2008 at 12:04 pm #
I’m picturing Fresh doing a triple toe loop in her office! Thanks for the costume information. I look forward to using the word engangeante in a sentence today.
Wanna come to Morocco with us? We will need someone to bail us out.
SnikyWhite on 14 Feb 2008 at 12:05 pm #
Ellen - LOL guess we’ll just have to try it and see HAHA and for the record I think that wearing a fez only is totally acceptable attire for Mr. Tall Dark and Handsome.
Ellen on 14 Feb 2008 at 12:06 pm #
You’re on Nicole. Let me just hook up the Windex I.V. to build up my strength for the challenge.
SnikyWhite on 14 Feb 2008 at 12:10 pm #
Fresh - not too much at all. I am a Project Runway junkie and while I cannot sew very well and I’m certainly no designer, I like knowing the how and why. Plus I had the sleeve looking all sparkly and hooked to your middle finger with a small piece of fabric, so the explanation was QUITE necessary.
As for the Blackberry…here’s how I see it. Some Tall Dark and Handsome is going to find it when he got in the cab after you. He’s going to check through the phone, find your phone number/address and ask you out to dinner and you’ll live happily ever after.
Barring that version of the story, hopefully the toothless balding fella that actually found the phone will return it and not hold it hostage in exchange for sexual favors.
SnikyWhite on 14 Feb 2008 at 12:18 pm #
Who would like to join me on the sidelines while watching Claudia, Nicole and Ellen fight for the Anal Control Freak award? Cause the way I figure it after the nachos, the popcorn fight, and me spilling the slushie, whoever wins the fight will make the losers clean up. LOL way to embrace your compulsion ladies! Wish it was contagious, my house would look SO much nicer.
Maureen on 14 Feb 2008 at 12:22 pm #
My happiest time last year was the day my daughter graduated from high school. I know that almost all children do this but when you’re sitting there and her name is called you can’t help but feel proud.
KariE on 14 Feb 2008 at 12:24 pm #
Can it be called something other than ANAL Control Freak?? Please.
Ellen-See if you can get some maracas from Morocco. Even if just a picture of you holding maracas in Morocco wearing a Goddess pin!!!
In my mind, I have totally played out the scene that has landed us in jail.
Good Times!!!
Speaking of jail, now you need to take a picture of a Moroccan jail.
Karen Rose on 14 Feb 2008 at 12:31 pm #
Hey all - Happy VD and BD to the goddesses!!!!
1. Proudest achievement? Two this year - making the Times list with DIE FOR ME and getting my yellow belt in karate.
2. Most embarrassing moment? Oh, the list is too long. I’ll have to give this some thought.
3. Best learning experience? The college app process with my oldest daughter. I learned patience and a few new inventive curses.
4. Happiest time? Any time I’m with DH. Awwww.
5. What are you most looking forward to over the next year? More great moments with the goddesses, getting my blue belt, my first hardcover in May (SCREAM FOR ME), going to London TWICE in 2008!!!
6. Any special birthday wish(s) for your fellow Goddesses? May your road rise before you, may the wind be at your back, and may your pants be lined with that super absorbent stuff for all of the PMP moments.
Have a great time in Morocco, Ellen! And Claudia, I pick on your for being the neat one, but that’s just because I’m jealous.
Ellen on 14 Feb 2008 at 12:32 pm #
Damn…I never got a Goddess pin. What must I do to earn one?
SuzyQ on 14 Feb 2008 at 12:37 pm #
Snik - we can hold the competition at my house, and we’ll just shorten the name to the ACFA (better Kari?). I’ll even roll out a red carpet, which will need to be vacuumed, of course.
Ellen on 14 Feb 2008 at 12:55 pm #
Hiya Karen Rose…Guess what. I was cleaning out a closet (ACF) when I found a copy of one of your books that I never got around to reading. “Nothing to Fear.” What a treat.
I have a question: Is your next release in May the book you just finished last month? Just curious.
KariE on 14 Feb 2008 at 12:55 pm #
Much! Thanks Suzy. There something about that word I don’t like. Someday I will get to the bottom of it.
Lisa H on 14 Feb 2008 at 12:57 pm #
I want to be an anal control freak…I try I really do, but these people I live with keep messing up my house!
Ellen, first, let me say I will buy anything you write. I know I will be howling on the floor, and let’s face it, who doesn’t like howling on the floor?
Also, have a great trip!!!! Bring home potential FRO’s pics, and maybe some computer literate person can post them on the Forum and we can rate them or vote for them, or just drool over them.
And did anyone read Doglady’s comment yesterday about her mother-in-law? I think she should elaborate!!!
Thanks for all the well wishes. I am looking forward to going out for Mexican tonight!
Suzanne Enoch on 14 Feb 2008 at 12:57 pm #
1. Proudest Achievement - The day I got “the call”. It’s all been gravy since then. Or yummy hot fudge topping.
2. Most Embarrassing Moment - I would have to add another one to the list if I answered that question.
3. Best Learning Experience - Working at my “real job” for 11 years and then quitting with a mortgage payment, without a writing contract, and realizing I could make a living doing what I love.
4. Happiest Time - Taking my nephews to Disneyland, and rooming with KarenH at Nationals. She makes my sides hurt.
5. Looking Forward To - Having the first two books in my new series come out, seeing my fellow Goddesses in San Francisco, & having 7 months to write a book after I turn in my May manuscript.
6. Birthday Wishes - Thanks for inviting me to be a part of this, and can’t wait to see what happens next!! Yay, us!!!
Ellen on 14 Feb 2008 at 12:57 pm #
LOL Kari. God I love a cute pun.
Ellen on 14 Feb 2008 at 12:58 pm #
Thanks Lisa. “Write” back at ya!
Karen Rose on 14 Feb 2008 at 1:04 pm #
Ellen, nope, my May book, SCREAM FOR ME, was finished last May. The one I just finished last month is KILL FOR ME, the final book in the trilogy that started with Simon Vartanian in DIE FOR ME.
SCREAM - May - is Daniel’s book. KILL (2/09) is Susannah’s book.
Hope you like NOTHING TO FEAR. I think that was the hardest book I’ve written so far, and the villain that scared me the most.
Oh, and we gave away Goddess pins at RWA last year. Are we giving any away through the Forum? DOn’t know - maybe Kim or one of the other goddesses will know
Lisa H on 14 Feb 2008 at 1:09 pm #
Kim Kim Kim - Happy Anniversary…I think you are the sweetest goddess of them all! So happy to know you!
KariE on 14 Feb 2008 at 1:17 pm #
There are some words that I don’t like. The “A” word happens to be one of them. There are some people that are replused by spiders or rodents or dust. For me, it’s a word (or two).
Sniky needs to get her head out of the gutter.
SnikyWhite on 14 Feb 2008 at 1:31 pm #
How’d my head get in a gutter? Last I knew I was throwing popcorn at Suzy and spilling my slushie with my head firmly attached to the rest of me.
MoabReader on 14 Feb 2008 at 1:35 pm #
I got the chance to spend a month in Argentina this year, on a cultural/professional exchange. One of the most challenging things for me, as an American, was learning to get past the “personal space” issue. I have never kissed so many strangers in my life, and now I’m not so afraid of being a human being.
KariE on 14 Feb 2008 at 1:47 pm #
That sounds amazing MoabReader (the month in Argentina). I’m lucky to get a week out of town. I like my personal space so I don’t know if I would be able to adjust to that custom.
Karen Hawkins on 14 Feb 2008 at 1:50 pm #
Snik, put me down for a front row seat, please! I gotta see the Anal Wars!
YIPPPEEEE, DOUGAL AND SOPHIE ARE GOING TO SPAIN AND MOROCCO WITH ELLEN! The only downside, I’m not going with them. *pout*
Ellen, we want pics, ok? We NEED pics!
And Karen Rose, you are going to London TWICE? How so, girl? Btw, I sent Kim a box of them so she’s putting them in the giveaways. Lotsa buttons! If anyone else wants one, send me your snail mail address through my email.
Moab, I had the exact same problem when my parents had exchange students when I was a kid. Now, I just go with the flow — I’ve let my personal space contract and expand so many times that I don’t know where it is anymore.
You know, that sounds bad, but I’m sure you all know what I mean!
SnikyWhite on 14 Feb 2008 at 1:54 pm #
Um ok. Its official. After reading Karen’s post my head has landed firmly in the gutter. It’s funny too cause my mouth is still trying to find the straw for the slushie….very strange.
Ellen on 14 Feb 2008 at 2:03 pm #
LOL Karen H. I Got a visual of your personal space expanding. I hope you’re wearing an elastic waistband.
Let’s hope they don’t have to ground my plane because of “unusual weather patterns” brought on by Dougal.
Keri Ford on 14 Feb 2008 at 2:05 pm #
1. Proudest achievement? -in writing terms, I was asked for some full requests.
2. Most embarrassing moment? -Uh, I need to ask my hubby this one. He always remembers my screw ups, where as I do my best to forget them.
3. Best learning experience? -RWA in Dallas!
4. Happiest time? -Giving birth to my first baby, who was very healthy, and I had little problems. (I would be a bad new momma if I didn’t say that one!)
And…
5. What are you most looking forward to over the next year? Success! I hope :O)
6. Any special birthday wish(s) for your fellow Goddesses? Stay healthy, get wealthy, and never become wise–it’s so overated and makes a person stiff.
Ellen on 14 Feb 2008 at 2:07 pm #
Gee Whizzz Sniky. I kinda thought you were on your best behavior today. If you are in the gutter, I am afraid to find out where I am hanging out. Maybe I’m the one sucking the slushie out of SuzyQ’s carpet.
Freshechelle on 14 Feb 2008 at 2:09 pm #
Ellen, I’ve always wanted to spring a friend from the clink. I’m all over Morocco for you, make sure your crime makes good copy - you’ve got writers on Mt. Oly looking for inspiration. Have a wonderful trip. Bring the two Karens’ books and the flight will, well, fly by. While in Spain, don’t spill any sangria on your engageantes or on your mantilla (the double whammy of fashion history vocabulary)
Sniky, the sequin visual - you’re killing me girl. I used to work with Robert from season one of Project Runway. A kind woman found my blackberry, she was very quick to wish me a Happy VD. I hired a messenger to retrieve it. Had it been a man who found it, you’re right, I probably would have found the time and cab fare to get it myself.
Gannon on 14 Feb 2008 at 2:21 pm #
Ellen, have a safe and wonderful trip!! Can’t wait to hear about it when you get back!
Ellen on 14 Feb 2008 at 2:22 pm #
So let me get this straight…I’ve got to somehow get myself arrested in Morocco, in some inspirational manner and you will come skating in to free me? Will you distract the guard with your sequined mantilla?
One question: Will you show up before or after the cavity search?
Haven Rich on 14 Feb 2008 at 2:25 pm #
In the past year what would you say is your:
1. Putting out several new websites for clients and getting contracted for cover art for an epublisher.
2. Forgetting I met someone at conference only to remember after exchanging a few emails. Oops..
3.Hosting the auction to raise money for scholarships over at RI! Whew!! Who knew it’d be so much work! Well worth it though.
4. Happiest time?
So far it’s any day since Jan. 1st! Last year was so horridly bad for a great many reasons and this year *knock on wood* has been very good so far.
5. I’m looking forward to attending the 2008 RWA conference! My daughter’s 16th birthday, my son officially becoming a teen and more contracts for my designing business :D.
6. I wish you all many New York Times Best Sellers, sexy hunks to serve you chocolate (that WONT go to your hips) in bed every morning. Oh and you’re hubby’s won’t mind the sexy hunks serving chocolates because he’ll know he’s #1
Whew getting this under the 1000 was hard.
SnikyWhite on 14 Feb 2008 at 2:26 pm #
I WAS on my best behavior Ellen! But what had happened was, Kari said something about me saying Anal…so I giggled. Then she made a funny pun. I laughed. You brought up Moroccan jail because of that fella in a fez. Then Karen said something about her personal space expanding and my head popped off!! LOL besides my best behavior is rarely as fun as this! And after you’re done sucking the slushie off the carpet, could you kindly carry mine over to the gutter? It’s on the floor next to the nacho’s that I dropped when Karen said “anal wars”. Thanks. I’m parched.
SnikyWhite on 14 Feb 2008 at 2:27 pm #
*closes her eyes and crosses her fingers* I hope Fresh says after.
Ellen on 14 Feb 2008 at 2:30 pm #
Oooops. Let’s not forget. I’m supposed to take a ton of pictures of the above mentioned prison.
Would trying to smuggle maracas under my fez be considered inspirational enough for you demanding goddesses?
Ellen on 14 Feb 2008 at 2:32 pm #
Wow…not like me to walk past nachos.
SnikyWhite on 14 Feb 2008 at 2:38 pm #
Fresh - I am glad to hear that the blackberry was returned, although I was hoping for the hunky fella. Speaking of hunky fellas…Robert on season 1…gay or straight?
SnikyWhite on 14 Feb 2008 at 2:40 pm #
LOL are you ONLY wearing a fez too because then yes, the smuggling of maracas would be sufficient!
SuzyQ on 14 Feb 2008 at 2:47 pm #
Hey Ellen! In between getting arrested, smuggling maracas and taking pictures - could you pick me up a Lladro while in Spain? Thanks, and I’ll be waiting to greet you at the airport with a tray of nachos and a slushie when you return!
Freshechelle on 14 Feb 2008 at 3:00 pm #
Robert was straight (and probably still is). He had a girlfriend. He was so charming it was like looking into the sun. Haven’t seen him since the first season finished airing.
Ellen on 14 Feb 2008 at 3:22 pm #
Suzy…My Mom left me several Lladros when she passed. I smile every time I dust them…which is quite often! (ACF)
Too funny Sniky
Freedom Writer on 14 Feb 2008 at 3:30 pm #
1. Proudest Achievement was finishing the first half of my book.
2. Embarrassing Moment? I am so wonderful that I never have any embarrassing moments. No really, it’s true.
3.Learning Experience. Everyday is a learning experience for me.
4. Happiest Moment. Being able to quit my job and become a full-time writer.
5. Most Look Forward To. Finishing the second half of my book and starting a new one.
6. I wish all of the goddesses here on Mt. Oly all the half naked men and chocolate they can consume. Happy Anniversary!
Julia London on 14 Feb 2008 at 3:42 pm #
Proudest Achievement: Making the Times printed list with a hardcover and a mass market…and having the two books be on the list at the same time. A dream come true!
Embarrassing Moment? Forgetting the name of a fan I had JUST MET and chatted with, maybe an hour earlier.
Learning experience: Several about myself, but I have to say for me, the biggest learning experience has been raising Jack London’s grandson. Long story, but he came to us when he was 8 months old and is 17 months old now. For a chick who never had children, that was one steep learning curve, but one I am so glad I didn’t actually miss in this lifetime.
Happiest Moment: The many times that little boy has smiled at me with love.
Most Look Forward To: Getting all the weight off! (15 pounds, another 10 to go).
My wish for every single one of you is that whatever your dream is, it comes true and that you love your life like I love mine. Happy Anniversary, ladies!
Julia London on 14 Feb 2008 at 3:54 pm #
I read through all the posts. You guys are amazing! Freedom, Maggie, Sniky, Elsie, Keri — and anyone else who had a writing achievement this year (I’m probably missing a few), HOO-RAY!!! That is so cool!
Claudia — xoxoxox
Sherri, you little pipsqueak, just you wait!
Ellen, have fun!
Lisa H — congrats on 15 years!
Fresh, Sniky, I, too, am a huge fan of Project Runway. I am thinking it will be Christian, but wish it was Jillian. I love her stuff.
catslady on 14 Feb 2008 at 4:06 pm #
I just want to say HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!
SnikyWhite on 14 Feb 2008 at 4:50 pm #
Julia - I am in agreement there. I prefer Jillian but based of consistency and whatnot Christian is…well, he’s fierce. That coat that Jillian did for the challenge with the faux hawk was absolutely amazing!
Kim on 14 Feb 2008 at 5:31 pm #
Yup, we’ve got buttons! I’m sure we’ll have some in San Fran too.
KarenR–speaking of Scream For Me. *ahem* Any tidbits, teasers, arc’s you want to share with me?
Nicole Jordan on 14 Feb 2008 at 5:38 pm #
>>Maureen
My happiest time last year was the day my daughter graduated from high school. I know that almost all children do this but when you’re sitting there and her name is called you can’t help but feel proud.
Maureen, I can just see you bursting with pride! Congrats!
And congrats to you, too, Freedom, for finishing the first half of your book! That is well over half the battle!
Julia, I can’t imagine a bigger life change than inheriting a todler! So glad it’s working out and that you’re finding joy in having him.
Haven, do you design websites?? And you designed some cover art for a pub? How cool is that?
And I still think y’alls wishes for your fellow goddesses are fab!
Freshechelle on 14 Feb 2008 at 6:11 pm #
1 Proudest: pride is a sin. (jk). Getting an “LOL” response from a goddess and/or fellow blogger.
2 embarassing : sending an email to my bosses about a company we work with. Here’s what I wrote “966 people were laid.” Lucky them.
3 - Best learning - obviously not proofreading.
4 - Happiest Time - Y’all wrote Disney. My family knows after a nuclear holocaust, we’re to meet in front of the Haunted Mansion, but don’t go in ‘coz then we won’t know you’re there. Real Happiest: my oft-mentioned summer vacation sitting in a lounge chair on a pier under an umbrella reading books on beautiful Payette Lake. I didn’t speak to anyone for a week. I learned folks in Idaho don’t want to know your name or where your from or what you do for a living - sweet. Oh, & discovering Karen Rose’s scary books through this site. I wish she were a robot churning out a new book every month.
5 Looking forward to: getting a job at the company where “966 people were …”
6 HB Goddesses! You’re swell!
Jane on 14 Feb 2008 at 6:30 pm #
1. Proudest achievement? Helping my cousin take care of her baby.
2. Most embarrassing moment? Falling down the stairs while other watched and laughed.
3. Best learning experience? Learning how to feed and burp the baby and how to change diapers.
4. Happiest time? The birth of my cousin’s baby.
And…
5. What are you most looking forward to over the next year? Vacationing somewhere I’ve never been.
6. Any special birthday wish(s) for your fellow Goddesses? May you have many more birthdays.
LauraR on 14 Feb 2008 at 6:32 pm #
A Birthday wish for all the Goddesses: #1 NYTimes!!
Sabrina Jeffries on 14 Feb 2008 at 8:56 pm #
1. Proudest achievement? Hitting the New York Times print list for the first time.
2. Most embarrassing moment? Ah, there are SO many. The most recent was not remembering the name of one of our long-time members who showed up at our panel discussion today. Sigh.
3. Best learning experience? This blog! I discovered that I CAN blog.
4. Happiest time? Our vacation in the Smoky Mountains in a cabin with a gorgeous view. The first morning I was there, I sat on the deck and cried for joy. I grew up going to the mountains for vacations, and I miss it.
5. What are you most looking forward to over the next year? Finishing this series! I’ve got two tight deadlines, and I’ll be very glad when they’re done.
6. Any special birthday wish(s) for your fellow Goddesses? May all of us have a very successful year in whatever we do, and be able to share the joy of our success with people we love!
Lisa H on 14 Feb 2008 at 9:34 pm #
Julia - I didn’t know you had a little man around your house…how do you manage to write so much?
Kay on 14 Feb 2008 at 9:38 pm #
Happy Birthday, Goddesses!!!
In the past year, my……
1. Proudest achievement? I completed 2 short stories, entered them in contests, and won an honorable mention for one.
2. Most embarrassing moment? Too many to count.
3. Best learning experience? Taking a writing class.
4. Happiest time? A surprise Disney trip with DH & kids (surprise for the kids)
And…
5. What are you most looking forward to over the next year? Completing my novel-lemgth WIP.
6. Any special birthday wish(s) for your fellow Goddesses? Many more years of writing and blogging.
Pamela Bolton-Holifield on 14 Feb 2008 at 10:27 pm #
1. Proudest Achievement? Finishing my first novel. Having it final in three contests and win one - the Royal Ascot. Having a chapter published in the Avon FanLit Novella.
2. Most embarrassing? Bent over a bucket of pink icing to get to the white icing wearing a navy shirt resulting in two pink blobs of icing in two strategic places and carrying on an entire conversation with a District Mgr. before anyone told me about it!
3. Best learning experience? Entering writing contests and getting so much helpful advice and encouragement.
4. Happiest time? The week my chapter made the top ten in the Avon Event. My BFF and I were both on vacation and spent the week IMing and checking the results until we heard I had one AND that Teresa Medeiros had made my chapter her pick! It was so much fun to share that with her. Then two weeks later another chapter made the top ten and Victoria Alexander made it her pick!
5. Completing revisions in first novel and finishing second novel. Getting one
Pamela Bolton-Holifield on 14 Feb 2008 at 10:28 pm #
or both published and / or getting an agent.
6. Happy Birthday to all of the Goddesses. Thank you for all of your humor, your insight, your generosity, your talent, your openness and all of the fun we have here!! Many, many happy returns!
Julia London on 14 Feb 2008 at 10:40 pm #
Pamela, you definitely win my vote about the most embarrassing moment, LOL!
Lisa, I’ll blog about it next time around.
Pamela Bolton-Holifield on 14 Feb 2008 at 11:03 pm #
Julia, I was completely mortified! And of course the girls in the bakery didn’t tell me ON PURPOSE!! The expression on the poor guy’s face and I had no clue what it was about until he left and someone from another department walked by and said “Why have you got icing on your ….. ” Well, you get the picture!
evlqn on 15 Feb 2008 at 1:31 am #
Happy Birthday Goddesses!
My proudest moment this year was when my sister’s 11 year old grandson was nominated for the People to People Sports Ambassadorship in Holland. He decided not to go this year because he was feeling a little scared to be away from us. We were okay with that because the thought of him going so far away was scary for us too. We have had he and his brother for nearly three years this time, and we get to keep them.
At my age I refuse to be embarrassed any longer, now I get to embarrass others. So much more fun!
Best learning experience, discovering I could actually attain some of my dreams from years gone by. Like photography, I take really good pictures.
Happiest time this year was my granddaughter Molly’s birth. Seeing the meeting between her and Bella, her sister is one I will always treasure.
I am really looking forward to spending more time with all the grandkids.
And I wish everything great and glorious for all the Goddesses. And many more birthdays!
DebMarlowe on 15 Feb 2008 at 7:16 am #
I’m way late to the party! But Happy Valentine’s Day and Happy Birthday to all the Goddesses! Thanks for creating such a warm and friendly and TAB spitting, pea-your-pants, amazing community!
Ellen, have a blast!
Pam, I’m DYING for you, here! LOL!
Lisa H on 15 Feb 2008 at 7:31 am #
Oh Pam….love the icing story. A huge congrats on your Avon wins. My dream of dreams is to be published with Avon. I am so happy for your success.
elsehogarth on 16 Feb 2008 at 12:28 pm #
Thanks Nicole. The article is, on page 16, of the March issue of The Romantic Times magazine.
Nicole Jordan on 17 Feb 2008 at 11:22 am #
What a great article in Romantic Times, Elsie! Loved it!
And I love Kasey Michaels, too. I have a half dozen of her traditional Regencies on my all-time keeper shelves.
That was so very sweet of you. Sounds like you’ve given Kasey much pleasure in your friendship, just as she’s given you pleasure with her wonderful books.
NicoleJ