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Write This Way…

September 13, 2011 2 Comments

You must write this way...no, this way! BOTH ARE WRONG!

Most writers want to learn how to be a writer, right?  With all the books and websites that are accessible, shouldn’t every book that is written be published by now?  Shouldn’t the wanna’ be writers be famously known like Shakespeare, Poe, Salinger, Blume, Steel, King, just to name a few?  My bookshelves are filled with “how to” books on writing, but am I published?  No.  One thing that I’ve noticed with all of these are the title of the books; they grab you right away!  Yes, that’s the point of them, but shouldn’t what’s behind the flaps be the main selling point of an instructional or guide?  Every author or co-author has their own style of saying how to write and get published.  I have read and tried my best to follow their advice but nothing has helped.

YOUR WAY IS THE RIGHT WAY TO WRITE

On Saturday night I started Stephen King’s book “On Writing: A Memoir on the Craft,” a book that has been recommended for emerging and current writers.  After reading only a few chapters, I was hooked on this book.  THIS is the book that will teach you how to be a writer.  “Why,” you ask?  Because he’s not saying do this or do that, no.  He’s simply telling you his story and how he began writing.  Currently I’m only on chapter nineteen (each chapter very short, 3-4 pages at the most), but I am truly in love with this book.  His story gives me inspiration and confidence to write…MY WAY!  That’s what I’ve learned, to write one way, MY WAY!  

The following are some tips that I want to share with you.  Some of these have been given to me (thank you to my writer friends) or I had to learn (sometimes the hard way):

  • WRITE WITHOUT EDITING!  Write a lot!  It doesn’t matter what you write or how amazing or horrible it might be, just do it!  You can always go back and edit or get an editor
  • Share you work!  Don’t be afraid to have people (friends, family and/or writing pals) read over your work.  Often times they will suggest something that will click and will give you insight or advice, sometimes that you didn’t even know you needed
  • It’s okay to have Writer’s Block — I did when I was writing my 1st book, and quite often!  I would write day after day and I would be on a roll, and the next thing I knew the cursor would be staring back at me asking, “Where’d you go, lady?  Come on, write!”
  • If you use a computer, click “save” a lot!  Just trust me on this one!
To close, I encourage you to learn to be a writer, your way.  🙂

Filed Under: Isabella Tagged With: Books, Chick-Lit, Editing, Images, Isabella, Link, Random, Romance Books, Writing

It’s Fun Friday

August 5, 2011 1 Comment

As a Chick Lit writer and an avid sports fan, I’d like to put these two together and talk about my five favorite attractive men in sports.  Often when I’m at a Texas Ranger’s game or am watching football, it’s a perk to see these guys in action.

#5

Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Packers QB

I grew up being a Green Bay Packers fan!  I even have a cheese-head, though it’s in the shape of a cowboy hat — the best of both worlds, since I’m also a Cowboy fan!

A few years ago my dad bought me tickets to the Green Bay Packers vs. the Dallas Cowboys.  I was in heaven and I was beyond thrilled to go see a legend play, Brett Favre, was once my favorite quarterback.  Unfortunately, I was late to the game, but got there just in time for the second quarter to start.  I remember it like it was yesterday and I kept my eyes on the (old) QB, Favre, nervous that he was going to get hurt.  Well, sure enough that’s what happened, and guess who was his backup?  Aaron Rodgers!

Handsome!

Some might not think that he’s all that handsome, even at first I didn’t think he was that attractive, but as I’ve become to “know” this fun-loving man, I love everything he stands for.  From the time he was the new starting QB, not once have I seen this sexy man not seem focused on his job and his team.  Earlier this year he took his team to the Super Bowl and they won, reclaiming what belongs in Green Bay, the Lombardi Trophy!

#4

Mike Fisher plays for the Nashville Predators
Beautiful!

I didn’t know who this hot NHL player was until he married a certain American Idol winner, but one thing’s for sure, I was sure missing out!  From the moment I saw his picture in celeb magazines, he became one of the sexiest men I had ever seen.  (Just look at that sweet, sexy, adorable, charming smile).  He even looks great in a suit!  Recently he was traded from the Ottawa Senators to (ironically) be closer to his wife in Nashville, to play for the Predators!  (Aww…I know, how sweet)!  While his name is Mike Fisher, he’s also known as Mr. Carrie Underwood.  Yes, what a lucky lady she is and just imagine how beautiful their children are going to be.  I wish these two a lifetime of love and happiness

#3

Tom Brady, New England Patriot's QB

This man has it all — the looks, the personality, the build, and who can forget those seductive eyes and lips?  Tom Brady is one of the sexiest men in the world!  He’s a leader on and off the field (and I’m sure in the sack too).

MMM...yummy!

Why I haven’t been a fan of the Patriot’s, Tom Brady is definitely a reason to become a Pat’s lover!  This family man is very protective of his wife and son.  (His model wife, Gisele, is one lucky lady.  I love how she lets her man take the lead and get all the attention on the red carpet, what a sweetheart)!

#2

Oscar De La Hoya, Retired Pro Boxer

I grew up watching the greats fight…you know, Mike Tyson, Evander Holyfield and George Foreman, just to name  a few, but when I watched a fight with Oscar De La Hoya, also known as “Pretty Boy,” I thought I had died and gone to heaven – I mean, look at him…and look at that chiseled sexy body!

Sexy

When he was in the boxing ring, no matter how bad it got, the handsome boxer never gave up and he fought for the many titles he won!

Sadly a few years ago, this man retired , but he will always be my favorite boxer…and of course, I’ll remember his (fill in the blank here).  Is there really another boxer as sexy as he is?  I dare you to name at least one…

Whoever tags this man is certainly a lucky lady!  This man is certain to be a lover and a fighter!

#1

Josh Hamilton, Texas Ranger's Outfielder

Oh, my Josh, how I love you!

As a Texas Ranger’s fan and a season ticket holder, I have grown more fond of the game baseball, mainly since last year when we were in the MLB playoffs, but unfortunately we lost the World Series.  One man who helped get us so far was Josh Hamilton.

Aww, how cute is this face?

I pick Josh as my #1 main player because he is the full package wrapped into one.  Not only is he adorable in a manly way, his eyes have this calming look to them that makes me want to look at him forever, couldn’t you?  Besides him being attractive, he clearly has everything a woman could want — he’s respectful (each time I’ve seen him on camera), he’s funny (each time I’ve seen him on a talk show), he’s a family man (he talks about his family quite a bit).

He has had problems with drugs and alcohol, but Josh has been clean for quite a while now, and it shows to his teammates and fans.  He’s a likable guy in the clubhouse and it’s obvious.  (I loved how when we were in the playoffs, the team celebrated with Ginger Ale not champagne, when Josh was in the room, and then Josh left so that everyone else could have their celebration).  See, he’s just a good guy!

When I’m at the games and his name is called, it’s clear (to anyone) that he wants to do his best, that he is a team player and that he wants to be there and that he wants to win!

The Main Man in Action

As a fan of baseball, I will forever be a Josh Hamilton fan.  I’m also hoping that the Texas Ranger’s organization will retire Josh’s number, so that he will forever be a Texas Ranger!

Filed Under: Fun Friday Tagged With: baseball, boxing, Chick-Lit, football, Friday, hockey, Images, Isabella, Random, sports, Writing

Adding A Little “Hump” To Your Wednesday

August 3, 2011 4 Comments

**WARNING: MATERIAL MIGHT BE RACIER THAN NORMAL AND MIGHT CAUSE YOU TO NEED MOUTH TO MOUTH RESUSCITATION A.S.A.P.**

Happy Wednesday, ladies!  Wednesday is also known as “Hump Day,” so I’ve decided to put a little spark back in to your week, and in mine as well.  Today’s high in Texas is 110 and I am in need of a better excuse to be hot, instead of just the unbearable temperatures.

FANTASIES…We all have them, so you might as well enjoy and indulge your mind…and body

It all starts with a kiss.  Now I’m not talking about the kiss that your grandmother would approve of, but the behind closed doors kiss, the kiss that sends chills up and down our body.  This kiss is best when done spontaneously and with a light amount of aggression, followed up by the light brush of lip on lip action.  The intensity begins to grow and grow, until the sweet and saltness of his lips make you hungry for more of him.

It’s been a cliché that these kisses only happen on soap operas and in movies, but I beg to differ.  While relationships grow and evolve and everyday life begins and those little quirks that you use to think were so cute are now annoying, that’s when we (men and women) need to ignite fireworks to remind your significant other, or even rekindle the passion you two have for one another.

Eduardo Verastegul

I would like you all to be introduced to the man who inspired me to write this blog today, thanks to Kathie Lee and Hoda on The Today Show this morning.  They replayed a clip of their first episode extension of the morning show.  HERE is the clip.  Instantly, I fell in lust with him, and couldn’t remember wanting someone so bad, not even Bradley Cooper.  Now, it might have been the way he was dressed, only because I am drawn to attractive men in suits.  He is a very sexy Latino…HOT, HOT, HOT!

Pretend your on the beach and it’s just you and your man.  How much sexier can it get?  Not much!  There is a reason why so many couples want to go to a beach destination for a (romantic) vacation — and it’s all because of the intimacy that two people can share on what can be such an erotic location.  Think about it…you laying on dry sand and your man hovering over you, and there’s no one around.  When he’s kissing you and his hands are arousing your body.  All of the sudden get drenched thanks to a wave — at first your surprised and a little bit caught off guard, but then you ignore it and keep paying attention him, who has now eased his way down to your shoulders.  Instantly, your nipples begin to harden and chills cover your body…(I would keep going, but my own beach fantasies have taken over).

Some people might think of Texas men as non-attractive, well they are so wrong.  Cowboys are VERY sexy!  From head to toe, cowboy hat to cowboy boot and of course what’s in between!

There is something so sexy about a real cowboy, whether it’s the way they talk in that sweet charming accent from the south, or the way they are manly men with a touch of sensitivity.  These men are hard workers, on the land and in the bedroom.  Cowboys are known for waking up early, ready to take on the day of physical labor, and from what I hear just because the sun goes down doesn’t mean that they are ready to stop working, wink wink!  Their bodies are built to work overtime — and on you!  They take pride and cherish the women they are with.  **For quick sexy reads about cowboys click HERE.

This weekend I watched both Bridget Jones’s movies (Bridget Jones’s Diary and Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason) and fell in love with Mr. Darcy!

While Hugh Grant’s character, Daniel Cleaver, is that bad boy we always like for some reason and his smile makes me blush, everything about Colin Firth’s character, Mark Darcy, melted my heart.  I loved how he never bashed Daniel for sleeping with his ex-wife, I loved how Mark was honest about everything he said to Bridget, good or bad.  While he always acted strong and macho, he didn’t act like it, nor did he need to, to win Bridget’s heart.  Above is a picture of the movie where he says my favorite line.  While at first I didn’t think that Mr. Darcy was sexy at all, not even attractive, his actions made me love him and his words stuck with me.

I encourage you all to watch these two movies and find out why you love Mr. Darcy.

Filed Under: Isabella Tagged With: Chick-Lit, Images, Isabella, Link, Random, Writing

Click: An Online Love Story

July 1, 2011 7 Comments

Book Review for “Click: An Online Love Story”

“Click: An Online Love Story,” by Lisa Becker

When I was approached to review Lisa Becker’s “Click: An Online Love Story,” I was thrilled beyond belief that someone had asked me to review their book.  This was a first, and it was truly an honor.  After learning the storyline, I was very eager to get started, as it seemed to be in my desired genre.  My only doubt was that it was written entirely in email form.  When I began reading the book, I literally couldn’t put it down.

Renee Greene is twenty-five days away from turning the big 3-0.  When she receives an email from her best male friend, Mark, asking her to go along with him on the journey of online dating, she discusses it with her sexually vivacious friend, Shelly, who encourages her to try it.  Feeling a little bit “desperate” and hoping that nobody finds out about this, especially Ashley, her prudish friend, Renee takes Mark up on his offer and fills out a profile on the Choose Jews website.

After going out on an abundant amount of dates with some sweet and some psycho men, their careers ranging from a doctor, a musician, to a wardrobe stylist for a TV show, just to name a few, Renee finally finds her man…only to discover something that could break them up and end her friendship with one of her best friends. I won’t spoil it for you – it’s way too good, but let me say that I was very surprised by the discovery of a certain “cuddler” …(oops, did I say too much?)

The title stands for itself!  This is truly a modern-day love story that I will never forget, and I could tell that it was clearly written from the heart.  Lisa Becker’s comical way of showing us that online love can be real, is truly brilliant!  She gives an honest and in-depth view of how it really is in the online dating world, even if you’ve never considered or been in it.  As for the email format, I found it easy to decipher who had sent the email, thanks to the wonderful deciphering of the all the characters.  The only thing that I would change are the characters ages.  I think that having Renee be as “desperate” as she is, she would be all for online dating because she’s still young.  If she were 35, then I could see how she being an older person might not be as interested.

The next time I am asked what book to read, I will definitely say, “Click: An Online Love Story!”

I give this book 4 ½ out of 5 stars.

**Click HERE to read my Guest Interview with Lisa!

Filed Under: Book Review, Click: An Online Love Story Tagged With: Book Reviews, Chick-Lit, Guest Author, Images, Isabella, Link, Random, Writing

It’s Fun Friday

July 1, 2011 2 Comments

Around this time every year, I’m already dragging (because of the heat), which begins my search for a new summer drink — one that I can drink outside, cooling me down.

Mike's Hard Lemonade

Over Memorial Day weekend, my aunt brought Mike’s Hard Lemonade to a pool party and I loved it.  I had forgotten how refreshing they (there are various flavors) are!  While they might not be all that good for you, due to the sugar content, they taste great!

Smirnoff Ice Cherry Lime

This led me to search for other flavors and when I stumbled upon the Smirnoff Ice Cherry Lime beverage, I was in complete bliss!  What’s better than cherries and limes?  Them combined to create this heavenly and delicious drink!  The sweetness from the cherries and the sourness of the lime, balance the flavor, making it not too sweet, nor too sour.

If you’re still not cooled off enough, pout it over ice and add either club soda or any type of sparkling water.  (A cherry and a lime are optional for garnish)!

I’d love to hear back from you about how much you liked/loved/ disliked/hated it, so leave me a comment!

Stay safe, my friends, and have a great July 4th!!

Filed Under: Fun Friday, Isabella Tagged With: Chick-Lit, Friday, Images, Isabella, Random, Writing

Lisa Becker

June 15, 2011 3 Comments

I had heard about Lisa Becker’s book Click: An Online Love Story and knew instantly that I had to add it to my Book Review list.  A few weeks later, I received an email from Lisa asking me to review her book.  I was even more excited to start her book, so I moved it up on my list, (I’ll have the review up within the next two weeks).  After reading up on this very talented author from other bloggers and reviewers, I wanted to have her for my next Guest Author interview.  Not only is Lisa Becker true to her Chick Lit genre, but she’s also someone who I admire.

When did you start writing? I remember writing short stories and poems as a little girl and dabbled a bit in high school.  But, Click: An Online Love Story is my first real attempt at a work of fiction.

What motivates you? Fear of public ridicule.  Seriously, I wanted to write something light and fun that people like me could relate to.  I spent a lot of time trying to capture the humor we all need to have and find in life and love.

How do you deal with writer’s block? Chocolate!  No joke, I eat chocolate.  If I’m stuck on a certain section or not feeling motivated to write, I give myself little chocolate incentives to get past the blockage.  Judging by my thighs, I had some serious problems writing this book.  😉

Why did you choose to write within your genre? My husband and I met online on a popular dating website.  After we married, I was recalling some of the hilarious experiences that I had with both traditional and online dating.  I decided to capture some of them in writing and from there, a “chick lit” novel emerged.

Are you working on any projects right now? I’m a full time mom and wife to the best family ever; part time public relations professional for an international PR firm; part time professor of public relations courses at a state university in California; and I’m bringing to market a children’s education product that I’ve invented. Somehow in between this all, I managed to write a book.  And, due to popular demand, I’ve started drafting notes for a sequel, currently titled Double Click.  I’d love to incorporate reader feedback, so I’m hoping people will stop by the book’s Facebook fan page and tell me what they’d like to see happen next.   Needless to say, there’s never a dull moment around here.

How would you spend your perfect day? I get to sleep in…until 8:30.  (With two small kids around, that would be no small feat.)  The rest of the day would be spent with family and friends, food and wine, laughter and great conversation.  Essentially, that’s all I really need or want.   Oh, and fielding a call from Oprah’s Book Club editor.  That would be really nice too.

What is your advice for a beginning writer? Much like the other author advice that I’ve read before, I would say to: (1) write what you know; and (2) make a commitment to write every day.

Do you have a writing routine?  If so, what is it? I started writing the book after my husband and I married but before we had kids.  Then I had to take a break from writing due to the rigors of motherhood.  But I had always told myself – even as a little girl – that I would write a book one day.  So, I made the commitment to finish the book.  I wrote in the mornings while the girls were at school or at night after they went to sleep.  I made it a goal to write – even if only for a half hour – every day.

As a writer, what do you think is/are your greatest strength(s)? I think what comes across best in this particular work is a realistic and conversational tone coupled with a format that make people feel as though they’re talking with their best friends.

Is there a message in “Click: An Online Love Story” that you want your readers to grasp? I’ve said many times before, if it happened for me, there’s hope for you.  And, as my grandmother used to say, for every chair, there’s a tush.  Love is out there; just be patient.  And concentrate on being a complete, happy and fulfilled person on your own.  When you are happy and secure in your own life, you will be much more attractive to someone else.

What tool(s) do you think are must-haves for writers? A successful writer needs the following:  creativity, time to write, a great editor and a willingness to alter what you’ve written to make your story stronger, better and clearer.  I’m reminded of some advice I was once given. I had interviewed Charles Rosen, one of the producers of the original Beverly Hills 90210, for an alumni magazine article while I was in graduate school. And I’ll never forget what he told me, “Don’t fall in love with your words, because somebody above will probably change them.” A successful writer understands this and embraces it.

Once you finished writing your book, how long did it take before it was published? Click is a self-published novel.  I explored the traditional publishing route and got feedback from multiple literary agents. One in particular explained the current economic state of the publishing industry to me. Due to the large investment to edit, produce, distribute and market a work by an unknown author, many large publishers won’t take the risk. Self-publishing is a way to get your work out there.  So, once I decided to self publish, it was a matter of only a few months before my book went from finished manuscript to published work.

**Purchase Click: An Online Love Story, HERE

**Leave Lisa feedback on her Facebook page

Filed Under: Guests Authors, Lisa Becker Tagged With: Book Reviews, Chick-Lit, Guest Author, Images, Link, Writing

USA Today Chick Lit Article

June 5, 2011 8 Comments

CHICK LIT'S AREN'T JUST SUMMER READS!!

While clicking through the USA Today website, I found THIS article on Chick Lit books.  All four of these books are new and are supposedly great for “beach reads.”  It’s because of this that I think that people don’t really understand this sub-genre of Romance.  Also, HERE is another article I found from two years ago.

While I love Chick Lit to be advertised (especially in highly profiled papers) these books aren’t just good for the summertime, which is the message I want to share!  Yes, while the covers on the books can look like a great summer read, they are all-year-reads.  I can see how someone going on vacation wants to read a fun summer book and I understand why they would pick Chick Lit — the pink woman on the cover is either sipping on a drink with an umbrella in it, she’s lying on the beach staring at a lifeguard or, along with the attractive pictures are the words “hot,” “sizzling” or “heat!”  I think in this case, a lot of them are doing it for the wrong reasons.  I’m not saying that everyone does this, but it seems like Chick Lit is mainly and more popular in the summer.  For me, this isn’t true, because I read more in the fall and wintertime.  I’m inside more and I love sitting by the fire drinking hot buttered rums and losing myself into a good book.

What is your favorite time to read Chick Lit books?

Filed Under: Isabella Tagged With: Chick-Lit, Images, Isabella, Link, Random, Writing

It’s Fun Friday

June 4, 2011 3 Comments

About three years ago, I found the love of my life, in wine form!  It’s called Mommy’s Time Out!

Mommy's Time Out

I drink mostly white wines, pinot grigio’s or sauvignon blanc’s.  Mommy’s Time Out’s pinot grigio is light to the taste with a slight hint of fruit, which isn’t too sweet, nor is it bitter.  This wine is the only white wine that I can say that I love.

The only place that I know where to find it is at Central Market and it’s their speciality wine.

Try it and let me know what you think!

Filed Under: Fun Friday Tagged With: Chick-Lit, Images, Isabella, Random, Writing

It’s Savory Saturday

May 21, 2011 2 Comments

Oh, my gosh!  I just had a great dinner that was made by my amazing husband.

Tuna & Goat Cheese Empanadillas

These amazing little empanadillas were quite tasty!  Inside the puff pastry was canned tuna, green olives and pine nuts, amongst other ingredients.  They had a creamy richness to them, which the pine nuts complimented very well.  The green olives and tuna had a very distinct flavor, and each bite I took, a flavor seemed to come out.  When we make these again, we’ve decided to do canned chicken instead, as we both thought the olives and tuna needed to complement one another, which these didn’t.  I give these a 6 out of 10 stars.

Duck Foie with Jamon Iberico

These were my favorite appetizer!  Oh, my gosh, they were so heavenly, that I had three of them (and we even had guests over)!  On the toasted pan rustico bread slices, were onions that simmered for two hours — the first hour in olive oil and sugar  and for the second, he added dry white wine.  The next layer was jamon iberico and then on that, was the duck foie!  I have never had anything like this!  The sweetness soft onions mixed with the salty jamon iberico, melted in my mouth and the crispy bread was toasted just enough for a nice texture throughout each bite.  I give this 12 out of 10 stars!

Spanish Style Chicken with Saffron Rice

This dinner was so very good.  The rice was very flavorful, with the canned tomatoes and yellow bell pepper, which gave off a nice and comforting flavor.  While the chicken was juicy, I prefer my chicken not as cooked as most people do.  I would definitely have this dish again, only with a little less cooking time for my piece of chicken.  I give this meal a 7 out of 10 stars.

If you would like these recipes, please let me know!

Filed Under: Isabella, Savory Saturday Tagged With: Chick-Lit, Food, Images, Isabella, Writing

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