Poet's Corner

I Wonder

I wonder if you know
how much you mean to me.
I wonder if it shows
how wonderful I think you are....
or how many times a day
I think of you
and look forward
to holding you close.
I wonder
if you can read my mind
or see into my heart
and know just how happy I am
to be sharing this life with you.

Sometimes I don't know how
to let you know,
and it keeps me from telling you
as often as I should....
Because you are the one
I want to live with
and dream with
and laugh with every day
for the rest of my life...
and I just wondered if you knew

- Anonymous

#MindfullMomentMonday - Respect

I love tea and several tea companies such as Yogi and Traditional Medicinals put wonderful little inspirational quotes on the tea tags. After I've enjoyed the tea, I pop the tags and collect them in a jar. On Monday, I pull a tag out to inspire me for the week. Hopefully, these little thoughts brighten your day or move you to improvement.

"You must have self-respect; 

only then 

can you respect somebody."

Thursday 13 - Tips for Successful Flirting

 

1: Don't Come On Too Strong

Flirting is all about subtlety, and being too aggressive when pursuing someone can turn him off. Levine agrees: "Women are more likely to strike out when they try too hard, act too available, or take the mystery out by making the outcome obvious," she notes.
Likewise, it's not smart to play too hard to get either. Although most men enjoy some degree of a challenge, if you continue to discourage or reject them, they will give up.

2: It Takes Confidence

Although you may be secretly quaking in your boots anytime he even looks at you, it's important to project a confident attitude. If you are a naturally shy person, this may be easier said than done, but Levine recommends wearing a new outfit or something that makes you feel good about yourself. "Sexy shoes can make you feel especially powerful!" she adds.

3: Drop Physical Clues

If the object of your affection is at a distance, making eye contact and smiling are sure-fire ways to grab his attention. Within closer distances, try gently touching him on the arm or chest while he's talking, but be careful not to linger too long and create an awkward moment.

"If time is flying by, you're both having fun, and neither of you is wasted, he'll likely ask you out and follow through. If not, and you want to see him again, tell him in a flirty way. If he's doesn't ask for your number at that point, leave it be-you're saving yourself a headache later on. And, most importantly don't take it personally."

4: Don't Forget to Be Yourself

Lastly, "to have a relationship that's real and lasting, the bottom line is to be yourself," says Levine. "To get to that point, it's trial and error. What doesn't work with one guy will work on another. Your heart is on the line, and until you make your move, you won't know the benefits or the ramifications."

5: Smile.

It seems obvious, but one of the best moves is a big smile. Do you smile enough? Practice smiling in the mirror -- your smile needs to get noticed. For the most impact, it should be a genuine smile, not forced. Make sure your teeth are white and your breath is fresh.

6: Hold eye contact.

See that cute guy across the room? One of the best ways to let him know you are interested is to get caught looking. Look him up and down, stare and wait until he notices. Then, make eye contact and hold it until it's almost uncomfortable, then look down and away.

7: Make "accidental" contact.

Touch is powerful. Touch his back as you walk by his desk. Brush his hand as you sit at the bar. Touch his shoulder briefly when you are introduced. If he's interested, he'll welcome this type of non-intrusive touching. If you feel him pull away, don't do it again.

8: Do the foot jiggle.

The dating advice book, Love in 90 Days: The Essential Guide to Finding Your Own True Love, suggests the foot jiggle move. And it works. While sitting down, cross your legs and then jiggle your foot in his direction. If he's interested, he'll get it.

9: Whisper.

At a crowded party or club, where everyone is yelling to be heard, lean in and whisper. It's a great excuse to get closer. Whisper softly, so he'll have to lean in even closer to hear you. After a few minutes of intimate whispering, don't be surprised if you hear, "Do you wan Talk about sports.

A hot woman who knows about sports is a guy's dream. Brush up on your sports knowledge and then take your flirting game to a sports bar or sporting event. Just a few (correct) observations about his favorite team will get his motor running.

10: Rub your shoulder.

Rub your shoulder or neck like you have a crick, then just sigh. If he's interested, he'll find it sexy and probably offer you a quick massage. While he's massaging, be sure to compliment him on his strong hands.

11: Laugh a little.

Laugh at his jokes if they are funny; be a little sarcastic if they aren't. He'll enjoy the banter. Relax and laugh a little, but don't laugh at everything he says or try to be a comedian yourself. Just act natural and comfortable.

12: Have a line.

Corny lines actually work sometimes. Ask if you can have a look at his cell phone. After giving it the once-over, say, "It's pretty nice, but it's missing one thing" -- which is, of course, your number. At least, you'll get a laugh. At best, you'll have given him your number.

13: Be straightforward.

Sometimes, the best flirting move is the boldest one. Being straightforward is especially effective if you are looking for a one-night stand. Place your hand his knee, make direct eye contact and tell him he's hot. If he's interested, you'll be between the sheets before you know it.

 

Monday Mojo - skin care

Things that make you go Hmmm....

SKIN CARE 

 Fascinating Fact: Sperm is good for the skin

The proteins in sperm have a tightening effect on the skin. When sperm is left to dry, the evaporation of the water in it leaves behind protein which can help to reduce wrinkles. While this may be an excellent anti-aging treatment, the obvious downside is that you have to walk around with sperm on your face.

I think I'll continue using Olay.

Monday Mojo - Weight loss

Things that make you go Hmmm....

WEIGHT LOSS

Fascinating Fact: Sexual acts lead to weight loss

The average human loses 26 calories when kissing for a minute. Furthermore, vigorous sex for half an hour burns 150 calories (you can lose three pounds in a year – if you have sex 7 to 8 times a month). Kissing is also very good for your teeth: the extra saliva released during the act helps to keep the mouth clean – reducing the risk of decay.

 

Monday Mojo - condoms

Things that make you go Hmmm....

CONDOMS

Fascinating Fact: Condoms were originally made of animal intestines or linen

Condoms were invented in 3000 B.C. in Egypt. Ancient drawings clearly depict men wearing condoms–sometimes made of material that may have been animal hide. It’s not clear however, whether condoms were used for sex or ceremonial dress.

In Asia before the fifteenth century, some use of glans condoms (devices covering only the head of the penis) is recorded. In China, glans condoms may have been made of oiled silk paper, or of lamb intestines. In Japan, they were made of tortoise shell or animal horn (ouch).


In the 16th century, condoms were often made with linen sheaths soaked in a chemical solution and allowed to dry before use. The cloths were sized to cover the glans of the penis, and were held on with a ribbon.

Replica 18thC style condom and wrapper

Efficiency was partly due to how carefully they were used, and partly a matter of hoping your condom maker had used good quality materials and worked carefully. Evidence suggests many condoms were reused a number of times, so careful washing and drying in between would have been necessary.

Thursday Thirteen - Find Time for Love

In a recent weekly poll, statistics showed that most people believed a typical couple should have sex three times a week if not every day.   How does this compare to you and your significant other?

If you feel you'd like to improve the amount of sensual time you spend with your partner here are a few ideas to help you!

1. Make it a point to go to bed at least an hour to a half-hour before you normally do.
2. If you're a morning person, try getting up an hour to half-hour earlier.
3. On days you have an hour or so lunch or mid-day break, meet each other at home or at a hotel for a fun quickie!
4. When you or your partner comes home, don't speak to them. Just grab their hand, drag them to the bedroom (or stay where you are) and make love.
5. Take your showers together.
6. Order out for dinner and make love before your food arrives.
7. While your children are taking a nap or engrossed watching a movie, steal your partner away and make love.
8. Hire a housekeeper to free up "needless" time.
9. Take a "sick" day from work and spend the day recovering together!  (My personal fav!)
10. Clean the house together while sipping wine, and then relax.
11. Go for a drive and park.  Just be careful not to get caught.
12. Send your kids off to a sports event with an older child, friend or relative.  That will give you at least 2-3 hours alone.
13. Whenever you're alone together... make love!

 

13 Sexy New Year Resolutions

So many New Year Resolutions are made and quickly forgotten. Not only are these promises easily forgotten when we are caught up in the hustle of everyday life, but also we can forget about the love in our lives. Try making a few resolutions that won't be forgotten and easily obtainable. Make your relationship with that special someone a priority, put pleasure first on your resolution list.

1. Plan to have more sex. We schedule time to shop, get our hair done, take the kids to soccer... Being spontaneous is not always easy and by some simple plans to be more sexual, you'll actually end up having more sex.

2. Get away from it all. Send the kids away for the weekend or escape for a night alone. Grab a movie, dinner and a romp in a cheap hotel. Use this time to NOT talk about family, friends or work. Focus on each other.

3. Do some redecorating in the bedroom. Our surrounding have a significant impact on how we feel. Turn your bedroom into a sensual room. Add some sexy satins, new pillows, mirrors, incense or candles, artwork to create an environment to bring out your sexual animal.

4. Exercise more. I'm talkin' the horizontal mambo three /four times a week. Not only are calories being burned in a super fun way, but with each orgasmic session your endorphins (the chemical in your brain that makes you happy) will do miracles for your mood and zest for life!

5. Stop the sensory deprivations. Get off the computer, turn off the cell phone, put down the e-reader. It's time to get your hands into life! Cook with your honey and savor every tasty moment. Inhale life's scents and enjoy the fragrance of the world around you whether it be a sensual perfume or the way the air smells after a rain shower. Gaze into your partner's eyes and drown in the lipid pools of desire.

6. Save your money and give each other full body massages. Invest in some scented massage candles and let your inhibitions fly out the window. Pick up some edible massage oil. Don't leave out the happy ending!

7. Eat in bed. Whipped cream, chocolate body paint, honey dust! Decadent and suggestive foods coupled with steamy sex make a rather delicious combination.

8. Make food a sensual part of your life. Forget the chips and go for the juicy, creamy and succulent stuff. Fresh strawberries, ripe peaches, and bananas can be cut into bite sizes. Finger food can be very sensual; take your time eating to experience the textures and flavors. Savoring food can be great practice for savoring sex.

10. Make yourself feel more sexy every day. Go through your panty drawer and buy yourself some new sexier styles. Lose the flannels, the old rugby jersey and stop lounging about with holey socks. Try some sexy silk pajamas or simple lingerie you can wear under your clothes. Treating yourself to sexier underclothes will help you tap into your sexy side. Indulge in a new fragrance that makes your partner hot. Wax, shave, work out... whatever makes you feel good about yourself and sexy.

11. Have an affair - with your partner of course! Here's your chance to have fun with a sexual fantasy. Share your fantasies with each other or create one together then act on them. Dress as a seductive stranger and meet at a secret location, hotel, or bar. Have fun with costumes, they can be just what you need to get started.

12. Get back to the basics. Rediscover the art of kissing. Spend a night simply "making out". Just be careful if you go "parking". Be open and honest with your partner by sharing what really turns you on. Be romantic by leaving notes with hints and sexy suggestions where your honey will find them. Take time to explore each other's bodies to learn likes and dislikes. Be open to pleasure.

13. Be more playful and creative. Try something sexually new. Play with sex toys. Visit a swingers' club. Get a book on sexual positions and try all of them at least once. For a more spiritual sex life, study Kama Sutra. Take a class on strip tease or belly dancing. Pick up a couple sex games and play. Feel free to visit your local adult store, the staff is very discreet and helpful.

One of my favorite shops is Lovers' Lane.   I feel comfortable working with the staff and have enjoyed every purchase!

Stuff Your Stockings Christmas Blog Hop 2011

Welcome to the Stuff Your Stocking Blog Hop.  You probably just hopped in from Romance Writers Behaving Badly.  I hope you had a Holiday beverage handy as you read those HOT posts from those naughty authors. Do you need a minute to catch your breath?

Remember to leave a comment for a chance to win a PDF download of my latest book Handcuffs & Silk.

Your next stop on the hop after here will be exciting as you dive into a writer's world with erotic author Louisa Bacio. 

"The mistletoe is hung up near a doorway or in the kitchen and young men have the privilege of kissing girls under it, plucking each time a berry from the bush. When the berries are all plucked the privilege ceases."

*****************************************

The tradition of kissing under the mistletoe is one of my favorites and I believe a lot of kissing under the mistletoe has been going on for ages.  In today's tradition the part about plucking the berries (which, incidentally, are poisonous), and then all kissing under the mistletoe ends when the berries run out!

As a little girl, my mother told me how a young lady standing under a ball of mistletoe, brightly trimmed with evergreens, ribbons, and ornaments, cannot refuse to be kissed. Such a kiss could mean deep romance or lasting friendship and goodwill. If the girl remained unkissed, she cannot expect not to marry the following year.

*******************************

I found references of "kissing under the mistletoe" in Celtic rituals and Norse mythology. In Gaul, the land of the Celts, for instance, the Druids considered it a sacred plant. It was believed to have medicinal qualities and mysterious supernatural powers.  (Hmm... I wonder what kind of "power" I would have if I wear a piece of mistletoe on my coat.  After all... I am Scandinavian.)

The Norse myth of Baldur. Baldur's death and resurrection is one of the most fascinating Norse myths and stands at the beginning of the history of mistletoe as a "kissing" plant.

Baldur's mother was the Norse goddess, Frigga. When Baldur was born, Frigga made each and every plant, animal and inanimate object promise not to harm Baldur. But Frigga overlooked the mistletoe plant -- and the mischievous god of the Norse myths, Loki, took advantage of this oversight.
Ever the prankster, Loki tricked one of the other gods into killing Baldur with a spear fashioned from mistletoe. The demise of Baldur, a vegetation deity in the Norse myths, brought winter into the world, although the gods did eventually restore Baldur to life. After which Frigga pronounced the mistletoe sacred, ordering that from now on it should bring love rather than death into the world.

Happily complying with Frigga's wishes, any two people passing under the plant from now on would celebrate Baldur's resurrection by kissing under the mistletoe.

**************************************

I have my mistletoe hanging.  Do you?

Leave a comment for a chance to win a PDF of Handcuffs and Silk

Decadent Publishing A 1 Night Stand Story Stephanie "Stiff" Johnson, is a tough Las Vegas cop who many men find too intimidating to date. Steph begins to wonder if something is wrong with her so she turns to Madame Eve to find a man who could be the yin to her yang, even if it's just for one night. Hunter Morgan left behind years of living as a sub to a female Domme in New York. Upon return to his hometown, he questions whether he wants to continue with the "lifestyle" or find something different. Turning to 1 Night Stand, he hopes to sample his options. A simple one-night stand opens a whole new sensuous world to both. Genre: Contemporary romance, erotic romance, BDSM

Your next stop on the hop after here will be exciting as you dive into a writer's world with erotic author Louisa Bacio.

Love Me Knot

Once a month, a bunch of authors get together and post excerpts from published books, contracted work or works in progress, and link to each other. You don’t have to be published to participate just an writer with an excerpt you’d like to share. For more info on how to participate, head over to the Excerpt Monday site.

The air was unusually warm for March. Snow was melting quickly, leaving puddles on the street and sidewalk. Strong green shoots of hyacinths and crocus pushed through the hard soil around the trees planted along the store fronts. Shopkeepers were preparing their store fronts for the day and were taking advantage of the mild weather.

He stepped out of an apartment located over the local shops. Walking along the sidewalk with determination in his step, his flannel shirt fluttered open.

"Well if it isn't Robbie Mac Donnell." The pub owner stopped sweeping the porch to lean against his broom. "Good to see you back, lad."

"It's good to be back, Mr. Murphy.

"Off to the coffee shop to see a particular young lady on this glorious morning?" The older man winked.

"Maybe," Robbie smiled, "I'll stop in for lunch."

"Maybe," Mr. Murphy laughed. "We'll see."

Robbie continued walking, smiling to himself. Life was good and could only get better; he was sure of it.

"Hey, Robbie, my boy! Think quick!"

He turned just in time to catch an apple that had been tossed in his direction from the grocer. Mr. Jennings came out of his door with a bin of fresh fruit to display in an effort to attract customers.

"Good to see you home, son!" Mr. Jennings put the bin down to clasp Robbie's shoulder.

"Thanks, good to be home." Wincing a bit from the rough grip on his shoulder where a wound from his adventure lay under his shirt.

"What's in the fancy box? A little gift for a little lady?"

"Maybe," he smiled and continued walking.

"Hey there, Robbie," boomed a large voice from a small woman fussing over a pot of polar pansies outside the book shop. "The book you ordered on Irish castles came in while you were gone."

"Thanks, Mrs. Stork." Robbie stopped to give the woman a kiss on her cheek. "It's a gift for my mom. I'll pick it up later."

"Off to the coffee shop, dear?" Mrs. Stork's eyes sparkled a brilliant blue.

"Yes, ma'am."

"Good. That's very good." She muttered to herself as she adjusted her worn sweater and turned her attention back to her plants.

Stepping around several women patiently waiting for the craft store to open and begin a quilting class, Robbie flashed a smile at them. He loved traveling but home was were his heart would always remain. During the last month spent in Ireland, he had plenty of time to look closely at his life. As a marine investigator, he enjoyed beautiful beaches around the world and women where ever he went. It was high time he settled down with a good woman and he knew exactly who she was.

Without pausing, he flung open the door to the coffee shop. Rows of tea nestled on shelves with various muffins made with dried fruits. The odor of fresh brewed coffee permeated the air. A couple sat huddled in intimate conversation next to the crackling fireplace. A little girl lay cuddled next to her mother on a couch. Several others focused on the morning paper or had their noses in a laptop. Mimi Cates owned the coffee shop where people enjoyed gathering. He felt himself smile, thinking of the petite spitfire of a woman.

Cory was standing behind the counter filling a customer's order. Tattooed with many piercings, Cory was popular around town not only for his friendly demeanor but his talent for writing folk songs.

"Hey, dude!" Robbie fisted Cory. "Where's your ole boss lady?"

"Shit man, if she hears you call her that, she'll cream you." Cory and the customer both laughed. "She's upstairs working on a painting. It's from one of those postcards you sent."

"Thanks," taking a cup of coffee from the young man, Robbie walked past the counter to a door that led to the stairs.


Mimi put her mug down and reached for a paint brush to add the finishing touches to the fantasy landscape. Several postcards from Robbie hung by clothespins on a line against the wall next to her table. She rarely left town but traveled vicariously through him. Combining the lovely scenes he picked out for her and a imagination full of folklore, she created fanciful works that not only filled the walls of the shop but also pulled in extra cash.

Touching the silver chain around her neck and fingering the tiny shamrock charm, her thoughts went to her neighbor who had given it to her. After years of friendship, she wondered if it would be possible to take their relationship to a different level. However, at thirty-four she was a homebody and needed stability; he just a couple years older suffered wanderlust and thrived on the unknown.

Satisfied with her work, she set her brush down and picked at some green paint left on a fingernail. A draft swooshed up the stairs as a door below was opened. Mimi recognized the heavy footsteps and turned just as Robbie entered the room.

"Well... you're a sight for sore eyes!" Mimi grinned.

Dressed in black jeans, black boots, black tank under a plaid shirt with hunky muscles peeking out. His reddish blonde hair was its usual mess as if he just crawled out of bed. Dark brows arched over beautiful green eyes and those lips...so kissable.

Without saying a word, Robbie placed the box he was carrying onto the table and walked towards her. His hand slipped under her hair to cup the base of her head, while his other arm circled around her. When his lips came down on hers, Mimi had to grab onto him to keep from falling over in surprise. With a tilt of his head, Robbie took the kiss deeper. The scent of milled soap and masculinity made her heady. Robbie slowly pulled away, tugging at her lip with his teeth as he did.

"Ah... welcome home?" She choked on the words.

Thursday 13 - Ideas for Dates in the Beginning

First dates can be incredibly tricky and nerve-wracking. It is therefore very important to establish in your own mind what you expect from the date beforehand. If possible, arrange to meet in a public place that you are familiar with, and do not forget to take your cell-phone, or change for a payphone in case of an emergency.

The important thing to remember is to have fun on your date and do not expect too much. After all, what is a first date other than a fun way to get to know one another, and to explore the possibilities of developing a strong and lasting relationship?

1. Go out for dinner then a movie. Having dinner together lets you get to know them better while watching the movie together provides the perfect atmosphere to just get used to them without having to talk too much.

2. Go out to eat, sit and talk and give a small kiss goodnight.

3. Have a picnic at a lake under the moonlight.

4. Walk along the beach or in a park at night. My honey & I used to enjoy walking in a ritzy area and pick out our dream homes and cars.

5. Have dinner, watch a movie and end the night by playing video games at a local arcade together.

6. Holding hands while walking in the park, getting to know each other.

7. Go out to eat, watch a movie, have a moonlight walk on the beach or through a park ending the evening with the perfect kiss.

8. Go out to dinner then spend time together at a coffee shop getting to know each other.

9. Attend a theater play, museum or art gallery opening followed by coffee.

10. Laying by the fireplace with romantic music and candlelight getting to know each other.

11. Go out dancing together.

12. Visit an amusement park or county fair.

13. Sit on the porch sipping wine, sharing a snack and talking.

Happy Thursday 13!

For another Thursday Thirteen zip over to Romance Writers Behaving Badly.

Free Read & Download

Thursday Thirteen - 13 Love Surprises

Little things mean alot. I'm sure you've heard that before... but it's true. Some things such as a smile can brighten one's day. My hubby is a pilot and is gone often so I enjoy hiding things in his suitcase. My mother lives in an apartment and I have fun leaving goodies in her fridge or on her dresser for her to find.

Here's a list of some items for you to leave in often over looked places for your honey or someone special to find.

For your honey:
1. Handcuffs.

2. A sexy photo of yourself.

3. A pair of panties scented with a favorite fragrance.

4. Small bottle of massage oil.

5. A key (to your heart).

6. A love poem.

7. A love letter.

8. Love coupons.For someone special:
9. A greeting or inspirational card.

10. A photo of the two of you.

11. A small book.

12. Favorite CD.

13 Favorite magazine.

Other items may include Hersey kisses, a teddy bear, jewelry, a list of why that person is special to you, small artwork, and a small bottle of their favorite fragrance.

What other items can you think of?


Be sure to visit Romance Writers Behaving Badly for another Thursday Thirteen list from me!

Excerpt Monday - Tormented Soul

EXCERPT 3
A white curtain billowed as a soft breeze blew into the room. The sound of bustling vehicles traveling the streets in Mayfair came through the window. Erick’s eyes fluttered; he couldn’t remember the last time he slept so well and wasn’t ready to wake yet. A warm figure stirred next to him. Suddenly the memories of the night came to him. A slow smile spread across his lips as he felt fingers run through his hair.

He opened his eyes and saw Lynn on her pillow facing him with the same smile.

“Good morning.”

“Hmm. Good morning,” he said as she caressed his rough cheek.

Under the covers he ran his hands across her naked body and pulled her closer. She snuggled under his chin. He sighed, full of sheer happiness.

“This is a little different than last time,” Lynn purred.

“How so?”

“I’m not afraid of you.”

“So you really were afraid of me that morning! Did you really think I was going to ravish you?”

“I was secretly hoping you would,” she admitted.

“Well, I’ll be damned!”

“But it was nice, anyway.”

“Yes it was, and so is this.” Erick stroked her exposed shoulder. “This feels so good. I could stay here forever.”

His stomach took the moment to growl.

“I think it must be around lunch,” Lynn laughed as she sat up.

Her hair had been damp when they went to bed and was now sticking up in many different directions. She had a pillow mark on her face. He watched as she tried to calm her mane with her hand. To Erick, she was the most beautiful creature in the world.

“Oh, I’ll have to wet it down again,” she groaned. “I think I’ll jump in the shower. Then we should think of getting something to eat.”

“Yes.” He rubbed his stomach. “I’d better shower as well. I’m sure I don’t smell like roses.”

“You’ve got that right!”

“Are you saying I stink?” He reached out grabbed her and began tickling her.
“I’ll wash you if you want,” she giggled.

“That sounds good.” He released her.

“Give me time to wash my hair and shave my legs.” She teased him with her walk. “Then come and join me.”

“OKAY I’ll go find some coffee to make.”

“You don’t drink tea?”

“Some days I want coffee. Today is one.”

“Do you always get what you want?”

“Most definitely.” He winked at her.


To celebrate, I'm giving away two special items this month.
A signed copy of Tormented Soul and a gift from my favorite store, Lover's Lane.

All you have to do is leave a comment on any post from Feb.1st until midnight the 14 th, the holiday for love... Valentine's Day.
Names will be placed into a drawing and the winner will be picked and announced on February 15.

Write A Love Poem

Trevor Dillinger is not only a good friend of Erick McAlister but also a song writer. He has been known to feed off his friend's pain as inspiration for his work. Sometimes he'll surprise everyone and rise from his self-inflicted darkness and give advice.

Today, Trevor is offering some tips on writing a love poem.

The underlying basis of a love poem is to convey your amorous feelings towards another person. In this light, there is no wrong or right way to write a poem. If you keep this in mind, you'll find writing your poem will be a more enjoyable experience overall.

To begin with you'll need to note down the following:

■Reasons why you love your partner


■Specific physical qualities you love about your partner. For instance, their deep, blue eyes.


■What they have provided for you. Example: Your constant support and encouragement has given me the wings to fly.


■Any special words you call each other.


■What specific message you are ultimately trying to convey with your poem. For example, my life would be nothing without you, thank you for being in my life, etc.


■Tone of your poem. For instance, humorous, sentimental, etc.

You will also need access to a thesaurus, dictionary and a rhyming dictionary if you want your poem to rhyme. You can find these tools online at the following links:
Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com
RhymeZone.com

Now that you have the data and ideas you need, you can begin structuring your poem. If you're a novice poet, start first with a rhyming poem. By now you should have some lines already written out. Put them in an order that flows and then fill in the rest with sentences that rhyme.

When you're done, read the poem aloud. You will most likely find a few spots that don't flow properly. Make your changes and read the poem aloud again. Continue doing this until the poem is easily read. Remember, a poem is a personal gift from the heart. As long as you are conveying an overall thought or idea it will be received with much pleasure.

Enhance your love poem!
■Write it in calligraphy.

■Use romantic stationary.

■Spray it with your perfume or cologne.

■Put it in a love card.

■Leave it on your love's pillow with a rose.



To celebrate, I'm giving away two special items this month.
A signed copy of Tormented Soul and a gift from my favorite store, Lover's Lane.

All you have to do is leave a comment on any post from Feb.1st until midnight the 14 th, the holiday for love... Valentine's Day .

Names will be placed into a drawing and the winner will be picked and announced on February 15.

Waiting

One of Erick McAlister's best buds is Trevor Dillinger from the band Dark Cloud. There was a time when Erick's voice filled in for the voiceless bass player.


They stood next to each other behind their own microphones. Erick closed his eyes while Trevor nodded to start the music. The music consisted of soft dreamy sounds from keyboards, drums and controlled guitars that had been recorded earlier. Erick’s hands held the headphones he wore as he let out a scream that broke the beauty and tranquility of the music. As the anguished cry softened, Trevor’s voice came through close to a whisper.

“I gave you my heart; you gave it back to me in pieces.”

“Broken, like the man I am,” Erick added with his raspy voice.

“Sitting in silent darkness, afraid to trust, ashamed to love.”

“Broken, like the man I am.” Erick’s eyes never opened.

“Sitting in silent darkness, waiting for you to return to fix.”

“The broken man I am,” the pair sang together.

The music increased in volume and hard-driving instruments. Trevor’s face contorted with anger as his powerful voice gained strength.

“Don’t look back as you walk from me, you won’t like what you see, not the beast but only me.”

“A man dying and weak,” the pair sang.

“Our little arrangement became something true, you know it did, you felt it too. My insides tearing, ripping in two.”

“How could you? How could you?” Erick’s emotion came through his voice.

“You are something I can never have; you are all I ever see, sitting in my
silent darkness, please come back to me.”

“Sitting in silent darkness, please, please come back to me!” They turned
and yelled into the same microphone. Anguish showed on their faces.
Erick’s head dropped as Trevor’s voice softened to the near whisper
again.

“Sitting in my silent darkness, trying to disappear, chained by memories, waiting, wanting, needing you here.”

“Waiting in silent darkness, please, please come back to me!” Pain reflected in Erick’s words as he sang them alone before being joined by Trevor. “Waiting, waiting, waiting! Come back to me!”

The music faded and Erick let out another scream like the one that began the song. His face was full of anger and pain. She felt it. The room felt as if it was closing in, but she refused to let the others know she was affected.



To celebrate, I'm giving away two special items this month.
A signed copy of Tormented Soul and a gift from my favorite store, Lover's Lane.

All you have to do is leave a comment on any post from Feb.1st until midnight the 14 th, the holiday for love... Valentine's Day .

Names will be placed into a drawing and the winner will be picked and announced on February 15.

Thursday Thirteen - Quotes from Erick McAlister

1. Talking to his brother, Michael, on the phone. "Gotta have a Frisbee dog! That reminds me, can you send me a few disks? Penny used my best one as a teething toy.”

2. An email sent to Lynn. "Greetings from the Queen! I’m glad to hear everything is going well for you. I’m sorry if I overstepped my bounds having Michael check up on you. But it sounds like he would have anyways. I’m glad to hear your date was so fun. Wish I could have been with you, what a sight my brother must have been! Singing in front of people! I would have made him mess up! Enjoy your ski trip with him. Let me know if he gets out of line. I’ll fly to NY and take care of him myself. I hope you’re sitting down when you read this… I bought a motorcycle. Can you believe it? Remember when I told you I wish I could ride like the motorcycle couriers in London? Well I ordered one similar to the bikes they use! I’ll take you for a ride when you visit! Penny sends slobbery kisses. Erick."

3.“I bought a bike and I want to hire you to teach me how to ride it. I’ll pay
you well for your time and your silence.”

4.“I want to feel the freedom you feel. I want happiness. I hate what I’ve
become. Every woman I date wants only one thing from me. Not one can see past
my money or my reputation.”

5.“Oh, baby! Do me good!” Erick wrapped his arms around Andrew’s
waist as he pretended to pump him.

6. “I’m going to fuck you, Lynn. That’s all it is. I’ll violate you. I’ll
penetrate you until I reach the soul of your being.”

7.“If this child is truly mine, he or she will be raised as a McAlister, in my
house. I’ll give you money all right, but for the baby. Not to run away!”

8.A real nerd, eh?” He whispered. “You must remember, I don’t just ‘do’
business in my office. I did you the other day. And I’ll do you over and over if you
come to my office again.”

9.“I canna sleep.” Erick lay down. “Every time I close my eyes I’ll see her
face, the pain, the tears. Why did I...? I knew I’d hurt her but I didn’t want to!
Especially like that! She hates me.”

10.“You don’t fight fair, Antonio,” Erick croaked.

11.“Andrew, what was done is in the past now. I never blamed you and never
will for what happened, or for my faults. I am responsible for what I’ve become.
We went through hell together and survived. We have the rest of our lives now.
You have Elizabeth; be happy. Live for your future.”

12. “Yeah, I get it.” Erick wiped his eyes. “My black heart is probably the
only virgin part on me.”

13. “No shit! I’m fucking angry! I can’t even fuck another woman without
seeing her face. I can’t stop wanting her. I’ll never have what I want. How can I
bring the broken pieces of my soul back together? He won’t let me.” Erick pointed
at his reflection. “The wretched beast!”

To celebrate, I'm giving away two special items this month.
A signed copy of Tormented Soul and a gift from my favorite store, Lover's Lane.

All you have to do is leave a comment on any post from Feb.1st until midnight the 14 th, the holiday for love... Valentine's Day .

Names will be placed into a drawing and the winner will be picked and announced on February 15.

Tormented Soul

Blurb:
Erick McAlister is known as London’s Most Dangerous Bachelor; he enjoys scotch, women, and spending time in the London underground club The Skunk’s Den. He’s never had a real relationship, women only want him for one thing but he desires more. When the one he vowed he would never toy with, Lynn Westmore, gives him an unexpected proposition, his life takes an enjoyable turn.

Just as he is beginning to find happiness, tabloids headline him, a woman from his past announces she’s expecting his child, someone is trying to kill him, and he finds himself questioning his relationship with the young courier he’s hired to teach him to ride his new motorcycle. Even though his life is in torment, he begins to believe in love, something he never thought he’d feel. Unfortunately, Lynn doesn’t think Erick could ever be faithful to one woman, let alone be in love with her, so when she finds herself in love with him she runs.

Erick falls into a spiral of depression, and it takes his brother and closest friends to bring him to his senses. When he finds out a magazine has rated him as the World’s Most Dangerous Bachelor, he agrees to do the interview only if Lynn is the photographer and uses the opportunity to let Lynn know how he feels; he offers his heart to her one more time.

EXCERPT 1
“British Airways’ Flight 112 to New York will be boarding through gate sixty-five momentarily.”

Lynn quietly reached down and picked up her flight bag. She looked at the boarding pass in her hand. Funny that she didn’t feel like she was going home, but more like she was leaving home. This last trip had been so different from all the others and had taken an emotional toll on her. Perhaps an uneventful stay at her father’s would be just what she needed before returning to finish her photo shoot.

Erick McAlister reached out and adjusted the strap on her shoulder. He glanced toward the gate Lynn would be going through and noticed a young couple saying their good-byes. They spoke softly in between tender kisses, holding each other in a tight embrace. His black heart thudded in his chest. He wondered if that would ever be him; if he was capable of loving, or being loved.

His best friend, Andrew, had been a tormented soul like himself, and against odds found love and happiness with his sister, Elizabeth. Erick thought back to a time when he tasted the sweetness of comfort and contentment. Andrew had been determined to pay Elizabeth and Lynn a surprise visit at Hampton House and persuaded him and his brother Michael to join him.

Through Erick’s life, Lynn Westmore was the only woman to affect him like she did, and he didn’t like it. The night he was changed, he drank himself to oblivion to avoid his uneasy feelings. Unknown to him, his sister had put her best friend in his room during her stay. After retiring in a drunken state to his old bed, he woke in the morning with Lynn in his arms.

She had become a first of sorts. The first woman to sleep with him in his bed at Hampton House, the first to wake with him in the morning, and the first woman to share a bed and not be ravished. As tempting his lustful desires were that morning, he enjoyed the quiet conversation and her presence more than any sexual conquest. With Lynn he found a small piece of serenity he’d only dreamed of.

“Well, it’s almost time,” Lynn’s voice brought him back to the present. “I’ve been gone from the States so long; I hope I haven’t forgotten where I live.”

“Well if you can’t find it, Erick said, “you know you are always welcome at Hampton House. When did you say you will be back?”

“Some time in the spring; depends on the weather. I have a couple of locations I need to go back to. These books on English gardens are scheduled to go to press during the summer, so I have a time factor to work with.” She tilted her auburn head, her brown eyes sparkled, her smile teased. “Are you going to miss me?”

“Yes. I will.”

Lynn put her arms around his waist to give him a hug before she boarded. She felt his arms tighten around her and wondered what it would be like to be loved by him. She felt she could never compete with the beautiful women he surrounded himself with; he was just out of her league. She knew he was a man with worldly knowledge of women, a man capable of incredible passion; a man with such sexual prowess and confidence he would never find satisfaction in someone with her lack of experience.

Erick wanted the moment to last forever. He felt faint stirrings in his black heart. He had broken hearts and strained some marriages. Over the years his reputation grew as a lover, a prince of seduction and passion. To him, women couldn’t be trusted and were nothing but a sport. But he refused to get involved with Lynn because he couldn’t bear to hurt her. Lynn was too good of a person to be played with. He trusted her and her friendship.

He ran his hand up her back, along her neck and cupped her face. He looked deep into her eyes.

“Sweet Lynn,” his voice was a husky whisper. “These last few months have probably been the best as well as my worst. You have heard my secrets and you know of the monster that lives inside me, yet you’ve been a good friend to me. I want you to know I trust you as I would trust my own sister. Thank you.”

He caressed her cheek with his thumb. Her lips were so inviting. He remembered the shock he had felt when he kissed her on New Years Eve. Only a few days had passed and he still felt their heat. He dipped his head and brushed his lips across hers.



“Good bye, Lynn.” He pulled away from her. “Have a good flight.”

It took everything Lynn had to remain on her feet. On the inside, she shook head to toe, from his touch and his kiss. Looking into his green eyes, she saw sadness. She smiled as she bade him farewell, then turned toward her boarding gate.


What a lousy way to start the year, he thought. All alone. His best friend had married his sister over the holidays and they were honeymooning in the American Southwest. Lynn was gone. His father and brother would be leaving in a few days. Perhaps he should visit the Underground Clubs as soon as he returned to London and find someone to warm the cold winter nights. For some reason, the thought didn’t sound very appealing at the moment, but would surely change by the time he dressed in his favorite leathers and disappeared into the London night.




To celebrate, I'm giving away two special items this month.
A signed copy of Tormented Soul and a gift from my favorite store, Lover's Lane.

All you have to do is leave a comment on any post from Feb.1st until midnight the 14 th, the holiday for love... Valentine's Day .

Names will be placed into a drawing and the winner will be picked and announced on February 15.

Fire Up For February - Tormented Soul Celebration Give Away

Tormented Soul is the second book in the Soul Series.
Tormented Soul was released in February, the second month of the year.
Tormented Soul was released two years ago.

To celebrate, I'm giving away two special items this month.






A signed copy of Tormented Soul



and a gift from my favorite store, Lover's Lane.















All you have to do is leave a comment on any post from Feb.1st until midnight the 14th the holiday for love... Valentine's Day.


Names will be placed into a drawing and the winner will be picked and announced on February 15.

Get excited and celebrate with me!

Advice for Guys

Ok, guys...want to be romantic without being cheesy? You can do it! Simply express your romantic nature with small but sweet gestures.

According to Marla Martenson, author of Diary of a Beverly Hills Matchmaker it’s important for a guy to show a woman his romantic side since so many women believe guys seem to have commitment issues.

“A woman wants to be shown that a man cares and that he’s a protector. Even though women are tough and working as CEO’s of companies and doctors and lawyers, they still have that dream of Prince Charming riding up on the horse and showering her with love and affection and having that fairy tale romance,“ says Martenson. Martenson believes the lack of romance in a relationship can seriously affect a couple’s emotional intimacy, sex life and friendship. A relationship simply cannot grow and thrive without it.

“Without romance a relationship gets stale, boring and unexciting,” notes Martenson. “Both partners may eventually start looking outside the relationship to find that special spark, and that’s the beginning of the end. By reinforcing that you care about the other person, that your relationship is worth the effort, it will helps you live in the now and enjoy each moment of time spent together.”

According to Martenson the best romantic gestures are ones that demonstrate that a man isn’t afraid of being a gentleman and is more than willing to be chivalrous. “In our modern times of women being equal to men, a woman still wants to be treated like a lady, protected and cherished,” says Martenson. “If a guy shows his caring, yet manly side to her, the combo will surely win her over.”

5 romantic gestures that aren’t cheesy

#1 Pay attention to what she likes and enjoys.
Notice what her favorite candy bar is or that she likes Coke instead of Pepsi.

#2 Call her during the day to check in.
She will feel secure and love that you are thinking about her.

#3 Be nice to her pet.
Bring a treat or a toy for her dog or cat, which she most likely considers her child, and you will score big points.

#4 Listen when she talks.
Most men subscribe to the idea that women talk too much, so they often tune out. Really try to listen and show that what she has to say matters.

#5 Brag about how beautiful and intelligent she is in front of your friends.
Let them know how lucky you are to be with such a treasure.