Notes Along the Way

Turn On Your Creative Self

2012-01-20T15:11:00.000-08:00

Milwaukee Art Museum MMSikes

How many creative people do you know? How many are super creative? I'm talking about folks who never seem to lack for ideas--those who are forever inventive.

This morning I watched Charlie Rose interview George Lucas. We first knew him as the Star Wars genius, and, of course, he's gone on from there to ever-escalating success. No doubt, Lucas has more projects in mind than he has years left to create them. It was enlightening to hear him talk.

Who does not marvel at the genius of the artist who created the Quadracci Pavilion at the Milwaukee Art Museum? This masterpiece spreads its glorious wings at certain times each day, and crowds gather to photograph this magnificent spectacle. Santiago Calatrava is the artist behind the creation of this amazing structure.

Like these brilliant men, each of us has creative potential, but how do we turn it on? We have only to use our imaginations, and everyone of us can do that.

Here are my tips to turn on your creative self:

1. Close your eyes and focus on an object or a shape that intrigues you. Perhaps it's a star or a circle. Take a deep breath and see what else comes to mind. Focus once again on your star.

2. Now, open your eyes, and take a piece of paper. Let new ideas flow through your pen. Perhaps a poem will come to you or the beginning thoughts for an essay. Write them down.

3. If you are an artist, stand before a blank canvas and visualize the new image you want there. Imagine the colors and the flow of the brush. Make a thumbnail sketch.

4. Keep a book filled with the new ideas that come to you, the poems, the story ideas, the paintings, even visions of new inventions. Each week turn one of your ideas into realization. It can be another chapter in your book or a new addition to your portfolio.

You can become the next creative genius. Just allow the ideas to flow...

Pan Am TV Show Is Great Period Drama

2012-01-15T10:20:00.000-08:00

Sometimes television gets it right and produces great period drama that reminds us of times past we want to remember. Pan Am on ABC Sunday nights does just that. When I Googled the program name, I was disappointed to see that the show may be cancelled. That's despite the fact that the first episode garnered as many as 11 million viewers. Later shows attracted "only" 5 or 6 million viewers. That sounds like a lot of people watching to me. There is a petition you can sign requesting that ABC keep Pan Am on the air for next season.

Pan Am reminds me of those wonderful days when designers created the uniforms flight attendants wore. They called them stewardesses during the times the ABC show depicts. It must have been a fun job for those women who got to travel all over the world to exotic destinations, especially with an air line like Pan Am. I always enjoyed seeing Pan Am planes with their distinctive logos in the air or parked on the airport tarmacs prior to the demise of the airline. We flew Pan Am more than once on trips to St. Martin back in the 90s.

The television production depicts a era when traveling was fun. People dressed up and enjoyed getting pampered with good meals aboard the flight. First class often meant dinner service with filet mignon and other goumet foods and a variety of wines. Like on Pan Am, they were met with the offer of a glass of champagne.

If an airline, like American, would bring back TWA as part of its fleet, I suspect some of the public would relish the opportunity to fly pampered once more. Pan Am has helped us remember and long for a time past.

Consider signing the petition to keep the show on. It is drama at its best.

Exciting News!

2012-01-11T15:28:00.000-08:00

I just learned from my publisher that A Rainbow for Christmas is now available as a Kindle book from Amazon. That's exciting news for me because I made five resolutions for 2012, and the first one is about marketing e-books. Here's my list:

1. Study the market for e-books. Look at results for Kindle, Nook Books, and more.
    I now have seven books available on Kindle, so the e-book market is growing ever more important for me in my marketing plans.

2. Make a plan and follow it. Spend 30 minutes a day, twice a week, checking out leads for marketing.
    I wonder how many of you are doing that. An hour a week is not a lot of time. I suspect most of you are spending more time than that.

3. Keep a book with records of marketing leads. Record what works.
    Having a little book I can pick up, hold in my hands and check out what I've done or plan to do, contact names and numbers, and much more is extremely important. Each book needs its own section separated with colored Post-its. It doesn't hurt if the record book is red or another bright color that stands out. I haven't started that book yet, but I plan to begin later this week.

4. Blog about marketing and promotion one day a week.
    This is a worthy goal because what you learn can help others. Networking is essential in a good marketing plan.

5. Work on a new book with the e-book market in mind.
    So many of the folks I follow are self-publishing new e-books. I'm watching and learning from them. Since e-books can be any length, they don't take forever to write. For those, like me, who are technically challenged, this may not be as easy as it sounds.

Do you have New Year's resolutions that involve marketing? If you do, please post links to your plans. It's exciting to consider all the possibilities!

Art Show

I'll be one of the Virginia artists in a group show hosted by John Paxton of Claris Financial for their Third Anniversary Open House Party, Thursday, January 12, 2012 from 4-7 p.m. If you're in the area, please come by for hors d' oeuvres, music, and socializing at 4551 Cox Road, Suite 220 Glen Allen, VA.

How Brave Were Those Who Crossed by Wagon Train?

2012-01-08T09:59:00.000-08:00

"Stormy Midwest" MM Sikes

As I researched wagon trains for my novel, A Rainbow for Christmas, I started to wonder how these brave people managed to cross the plains and rugged mountains to reach destinations in the far west. Getting over the mountains to California must have been an unbelievable journey. Looking down from the window of an airplane always convinces me how brave these people must have been. Or perhaps, they had no idea what they actually were facing as they crossed the amazingly beautiful yet sometimes terribly rough terrain.

As in my story, many of the wagons were filled with supplies in Independence, Missouri. I learned it cost about $1,000 (a lot of money then) for a man to cross with his family from the Mid-West to Oregon or California. The journey took about six months, traveling at two miles an hour with wagons that were most often pulled by oxen.

The canvas tops of the wagons had to be waterproofed with linseed oil. The wagons also were reinforced with iron at strategic points. However, they couldn't use too much iron or the wagons would be way too heavy for the oxen to pull. Those traveling sometimes brought along furniture and other items from their previous homes, but these were often discarded along the way. The travelers had to carry many pounds of flour, lard, beans, bacon, salt, and more and thus had little room for extras. They also needed cooking utensils and a shovel.

Although mules and horses were also used by the pioneers, I chose oxen for Meg to use to drive her wagon. These animals were the most popular because Native Americans were less likely to try to steal them. They were also less likely to stray away from the night encampment.

The new settlers continued on despite storms, attacks by Native Americans, sometimes savagery and trickery by their own people. They crossed raging rivers and much more. I admire their bravery and endurance. Those are the kinds of people who make America strong.

Thanks again to Diana Cosby for being a guest on my blog. Congratulations to Ashley, the winner of a copy of His Destiny.

Diana Cosby, My First Ever Guest Blogger

2012-01-05T18:00:00.000-08:00

"A New Year’s Guide To Achieving Your Goals!"

“Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great make you feel that you too can become great.” - Mark Twain

Dreams are visions of what we can become. But, dreams are also an invitation to doubt, to wonder if you’re good enough, or if you have what it takes. When I retired from the Navy, I decided to pursue my dream of becoming a published author. After 100 rejections, I quit counting as I figured I knew how to achieve a rejection. Then, after 9 ½ years, I finally sold. The journey taught me many things, which I’d like to share with you.

-Take yourself seriously: If YOU don’t, no one else will.

-Associate with people who inspire you, and encourage you to achieve your dreams. Encourage and inspire others as you grow in your own writing.

-Set a clear goal: Once you know exactly what you want, break down steps to achieve it. If you’re unsure how to start, read biographies of people who have achieved a dream similar to yours. What steps did they take? Are there comparable avenues you can pursue?

-Success is a compilation of small steps toward one focused goal.

-Affiliate yourself with professional organizations: Join accredited groups to educate yourself about the industry you’ve chosen. In addition to net-working, you will have opportunities to learn from on-line or local sources.

-Self affirmation: Each morning reaffirm that you are good enough and clarify your goal of the day. Then, move forward with positive, focused steps.

-Inspirational quotes: I’m a huge fan of inspirational quotes, they ground and remind me that each of us struggle as we pursue our dreams. Each day, I find a quote that touches me and post it on my Facebook page in hopes others find inspiration in the message as well.

-Permission to fail: Success is not a moment, but a journey. As we grow within our craft, there will be times when we fail at certain steps. Focus not on the failure, but on the lessons learned. What worked, what didn’t? Move forward and make wiser decisions with the knowledge learned.

-The way we act, and talk about our goals reflects our commitment to them: What are you telling yourself? “I WILL do this!” Or, are you assuring yourself that one day you’ll really try?

-Give the gift of example: When you make the choice to follow your dream, you are doing more than commitment to self, but teaching your children an important life lesson — dare to dream, and follow through. So, be bold. Believe in yourself.

I hope you’ve found inspiration from my comments. Remember, there is no right path, but the steps right for you. Believe in yourself, YOU have what it takes!

*How do you encourage others to go after their dreams?

**One person will be drawn from all posts today. The winner receives a signed copy of His Destiny!

Bio for Diana Cosby

After retiring at 36 from my job as a Navy Chief Meteorologist/Oceanographer, I dove into my passion – writing romance novels. With 33 moves behind me, I was anxious to create characters who reflected the amazing cultures and people I’ve met throughout the world. Nine and a half years later, I received “The Call” from Kensington and sold the first two books in the MacGruder brother’s series.

I have many passions, but one that resonates most in my life is that of giving. I firmly believe that each of us can make a positive difference in another person’s life. With each book I sell, I tithe 10% of my royalties to a charity of my choice. I’m currently working on the next book in the award-winning MacGruder brother’s series, and look forward to the years of writing ahead and meeting the amazing people who will share this journey.

Diana Cosby, International Best-Selling Author

www.dianacosby.com

His Captive-Alexander MacGruder/ His Woman-Duncan MacGruder

His Conquest-Seathan MacGruder / His Destiny-Patrik

(Updates on the MacGruder brothers series coming soon!)

Highland vampire anthology: Title/Release date TBA
. http://www.dianacosby.com/
http://www.dianacosby.com/books.html

Thank you, Diana, for being my guest today! I first met Diana several years ago at a meeting of the Virginia Romance Writers. I was impressed with her poise and charming personality. Since then, I've been amazed at the interest she shows in all the writers in our VRW group. Although she moved to Texas soon after we met, she has continued her connection with Virginia Writers. I very much admire her interest in a variety of charities and her dedication to giving a portion of her royalties to those of her choice.

Please comment on this post. I will leave it up though Saturday, and a winner will then be chosen to receive a copy of His Destiny.

Diana is my first ever guest author. I hope to make this a new feature on Notes Along the Way for 2012 with a guest once or twice a month.

An Author's Dream--Having a Reader Love All Your Books

2012-01-01T15:03:00.000-08:00

Customer awaits signing at bookstore event

At one of my last book signings for 2011, I had a wonderful reader come up and buy a copy of each of my novels and more than one copy of a couple of them. What a delight! Isn't that every author's dream--to have readers love your books? It makes me wonder what will happen if everyone gets an e-reader. Will some people still want a "real" book to hold in their hands?

I hope so.

My wish for 2012 is more readers who love my books. It makes life as a writer feel worthwhile!

On Friday, January 6, Diana Cosby, International best-selling author, will be my first ever blog guest. She will give away a copy of her latest novel, His Destiny, to one of the folks who comment on her post. Please stop by for a visit.

My Three Best Hotels of 2011

2011-12-30T13:32:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year when people start reflecting on the past 12 months--what was good and what was not. I like to remember our travels for the year--especially visits to hotels. This year I have selected three unique and wonderful hotels. Each is special for a reason beyond the facilities they provide.

3. Hyatt Regency Incline Village Lake Tahoe

1. Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort -
Lake Tahoe, a destination I've always wanted to visit, did not disappoint me. The scenery was amazing and spectacular. Even in June, at 7,000 feet, snow covered the mountains. The Hyatt Resort is lovely and even has a nice sized sports bar where we watched baseball and enjoyed good dinners at the same time. Many cozy little restaurants adorn the quaint streets of Incline Village. Scenic parks are only a short drive away and are a must for visitors. Eight inches of snow fell on the village the week before we arrived, and we were unable to take a planned side trip to Yosemite because the main road through the park was still closed due to snow. Even so, June is a good time to go to Lake Tahoe because it's an in-between tourist season, too late for skiers and too early for a barrage of summer visitors.

The Pfister Hotel, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

2. The Pfister Hotel in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
We had been to the Pfister before and I wanted to return. In fact, I included this historic old hotel in my book, Hotels to Remember, because it is an unforgettable edifice located within easy walking distance of the newly-expanded Milwaukee Art Museum. The hotel is a museum on its own, featuring original paintings and sculpture throughout the facility. Getting to see the ceiling of the lobby is worth a visit to the Pfister. A major disappointment for me was the discovery that the awnings are now red instead of green as I painted them in the hotel portrait for use in my book. It was exciting to meet the artist in residence who has a studio/gallery in the hotel and also the resident blogger who changes every six months. (The artist stays for one year.) I was delighted to see Peter Mortensen, the chef concierge, again. Peter was most helpful when I worked on the Pfister entry in my book.

Roses for a wedding, Embassy Suites lobby.

3. Embassy Suites, Palm Beach Gardens, Florida

Because our transportation plans got diverted to a different airport, we arrived at our hotel after the restaurant stopped serving food. Exhausted from the long day of travel which included a side trip to Boston en route to Florida from Virginia, we were thrilled when room service offered to serve the meal we ordered at a table in the restaurant. Everyone was courteous and helpful. Not only did we enjoy meeting other St. Louis Cardinals fans staying at this Embassy Suites, we also got to see Alan Craig, a star of the 2011 World Series, who was also staying there. The prepared-to-order breakfasts (included) were awesome. We enjoyed watching a wedding that took place in the lobby near the scenic bridge that crosses a little pond which is home to a pair of beautiful swan. The Palm Beach Gardens Embassy Suites is a special destination in late February and March each year because of its proximity to Roger Dean Stadium, home of the Cardinals in Jupiter.

Swan at Embassy Suites Palm Beach Gardens

It's time to turn the page on the 2011 calendar. I look forward to hotel visits in 2012 and hope to find more properties that are a joy to visit.

A Spirited Gift - Getting Caught Up in a Setting

2011-12-29T12:03:00.000-08:00

Settings intrigue me. Because we live in an area of Virginia where people flock to vacation in the Outer Banks of North Carolina, I was especially interested in the setting of A Spirited Gift by Joyce and Jim Lavene. The book begins when hurricane winds damage the hotel where a group of area governing officials are meeting. The descriptions of the low-lying terrain so easily devastated by storms captivate me. I've often wondered why people build homes in these locations, then refuse to leave when warned to do so. As in this story, the area's bridges are often closed during and following storms, and tourists as well as residents are cut off from the mainland.

A Spirited Gift features a heroine who has the gift of psychometry that helps her solve a murder, the ghost of a pirate, and much more. It is part of the Missing Pieces Mystery series.

Still, it is the setting and how the elements of nature affect this story that attract me. I tend to get caught up in a setting!

Coming Next Week

Next week on January 6, Diana Cosby, Amazon Bestselling Author, will be a guest on Notes Along the Way. Diana who is author of the MacGruder historicals set in Scotland will be my first guest blogger.

Mystery and Mystique - Who Are the Maya?

2011-12-26T15:30:00.000-08:00

"Early Evening Sky" - MM Sikes

Since I first visited the dramatic, expansive ruins of the Maya that lie buried deep beneath the thick, green jungles of Mexico and Central America, I've been hooked. Then, when I started reading about the end of the Maya Calendar in 2012, I was spellbound. It's like gazing at the sky in wonderment as early evening settles in.

Did the Maya know things we do not? Is the end of their calendar on December 21, 2012 the sign of a doomsday event?

Because of their advanced abilities in mathematics and their primitive knowledge of astronomy, the Maya were able to develop a calendar that was considered by some to be the most accurate in the world. Their Long Count calendar begins in 3114 BC and ends December 21, 2012. The calendar has time divisions of 144,000 days (a little more than 394 years) called Baktuns. The 13th Baktun ends December 21, 2012. Long ago, the Maya predicted a solar shift at that time. A stone tablet found in the 1960s at the Tortuguero archaeological site in the Gulf of Mexico tells of the return of a Mayan god at the end of the 13th Baktun.

So much of the Maya history was destroyed during the European conquest that sometimes myths have grown to take the place of knowledge. I love the adventure of uncovering the ruins of the lost buildings of the Maya. I even fantasized about it in my latest Passenger to Paradise book, Jungle Jeopardy.

Who knows what still may lie hidden beneath the lush, tropical jungles?

Mexican tourism will take advantage of the 2012 phenomena. A year-long celebration is planned for the heart of the Maya ruins that lie buried in southern Mexico. Palenque in Chiapas is one of those sites. As many as 52 million tourists are expected to flood the area. That compares with about 22 million during an average year.

Who knows what we may learn? Perhaps we will know more about who the Maya were in those long ago lost times.

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T08:02:00.000-08:00

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas!

Over the years, our own Christmas traditions have changed. Because one of our daughters is an airline pilot, we vary our celebration depending on her schedule. Sometimes we have Christmas on December 26 or 27. This year, the turkey goes into the oven mid-afternoon, and we will open our gifts later tonight.

We have learned flexibility. Christmas is not a specific date. It is a time for celebration together, whenever and wherever that time may be.

Happy holidays!

Joining a Festive Tradition

2011-12-18T13:25:00.000-08:00

Jefferson Tree viewed from the stairs MMSikes

For well over 100 years, people have celebrated Christmas in style at the Jefferson Hotel. I joined the Richmond Branch National League of American Pen Women at the historic hotel for lunch and enjoyed seeing the women I've known for many years. We used to have a much larger group and we met every month except in the summer. Now the group has grown older in age, and we only meet four times a year. In recent years, we have gathered during the Christmas season to celebrate together.

The Jefferson was beautiful and very, very crowded. On one side of the tall, lavishly decorated tree sat three temporary tables filled with young children. As I watched, three of the little girls, each wearing a red and green velvet holiday dress, escaped from their seats and danced about near the giant sparkling tree. The quaint scene made me wonder how many other little children have danced and played in the Jefferson lobby over the years.

I noticed that the elegant Lemaire Dining room was closed for a private party. The largest gingerbread house I've ever seen sat by the restaurant entrance, cordoned off for protection from the crowds by thick velvet cords.

While I waited to go into TJs, I watched a large group of ladies dressed in their finest line up. For many of them, this must be a yearly tradition that has gone on for decades.

Alligators Remembered MMSikes

As I observed everything happening all around, I was glad that our group has become part of the Jefferson tradition. We enjoyed our little piece of Christmas history. Even as we departed, we found decorations everywhere, including in the mouth of one of the alligator bronze statues that greets visitors at the valet parking entrance.

Who Are Our Heroes? The View of a Romance Writer

2011-12-10T10:55:00.000-08:00

Who are our heroes? As a romance writer, I want happy endings. As I work, I strive to create characters who are heroic and provide happy endings for my readers. Although most characters start out a little flawed, they grow and become better heroes as the story develops.

When I first started writing romance, one of the rules for category was no sports heroes. I wondered why. I also wondered why the big New York houses frowned upon heroes and heroines from the art world which was where I often wanted to go with some of my characters.

Of course, with the coming of age of e-books, everything has changed. There are fewer rules; the lines are grayer for what a writer can and cannot do. Perhaps there are no lines at all.

As I ponder about my experiences as a writer and as an observer of people, I believe the heroes in our world today are the teachers. They are the ones guiding and instructing for the future. The profession is not filled with the glamour and glitz some other jobs might hold. Teachers are not paid $48 a minutes even when they are sleeping. Yet, they are the unsung heroes.

One of my next books will feature a teacher as the heroine.

Who do you consider the heroes in today's world? I would like to know.


Heroes can be musicians who share their gifts with us. Petersburg Regional Art Center Open House 12/9/11

Greed and Gluttony - What Will the Children Think?

2011-12-09T20:18:00.000-08:00

It was will great disappointment and anger that I observed the Albert Pujols fiasco unfold. Greed and gluttony, what will the children think? That was my amazed and traumatic reaction. After all, I have watched Albert Pujols during at least five spring trainings in Jupiter, Florida and have thought he cared a lot about the children who followed him as great and growing fans.

He did not.

In the end, nothing mattered as far as loyalty was concerned. He did not care about the children. He was not a role model. He was not a hero. He cared about money. How much money does one man need?

As someone who has worked with children for many years, I know they need role models to follow. They need heroes.

Albert Pujols is neither of these. He is a fallen hero.

It is sad because he could have followed in the footsteps of Stan Musial.

He did not.

So sad to see a lost opportunity.

Greed and gluttony...what will the children think?

I hope the St. Louis Cardinals soon will give out number 5 to another player. We do not want to keep bad memories of the player who has dishonored that number this week. Perhaps a new number 5 will grant us good memories as St. Louis Cardinals fans!

Fallen heroes do not.

.

Busy, Crazy, Insane Weekend and a New Book

2011-12-03T18:17:00.000-08:00

Holiday Marketplace at Tides Inn

Combining a book signing with an art event is trying, cumbersome, and exhilarating. For as long as I can remember my first love has been both, and try as I might I can't seem to change that. The love of color and form is far too strong to separate myself from art, and my love of words is equally compelling. It has reached the point that when I didn't still have the painting that became the cover art for Jungle Jeopardy, I had to create a new painting to show with my book. There it is, far left, in the photograph.

Earlier this week, I received the first copies of my latest book, A Rainbow for Christmas. This is my first western. It's a sweet romance set in 1869 on a wagon train traveling from Missouri to Denver, Colorado. During my research I read the dairies of many women who experienced the hardships of crossing the prairie amidst all types of challenges. I was intrigued and lost in the journey of my heroine as she careened along a rough wagon train trail learning to drive a team of oxen along the way. It was thrilling to sign the first copies of my book in the middle of a festive room at Tides Inn filled with artisans of all kinds, including jewelry-makers, painters, potters, and two writers.

Crazy, busy! I love the excitement. Art and writing. I live for the confusing mixture of the two!

Power of Positive Thinking

2011-11-27T08:48:00.000-08:00

"Reaching to Forever" MM Sikes

This morning, CBS Sunday Morning had a segment on Positive Thinking that I watched with great anticipation. What a disappointment!

The main conclusion one could draw from the presentation was that positive thinking may be bad for you. That was the view I gathered from comments made from several folks in the medical profession. What?!!

I believe in positive thinking. I know that if I get down and negative about things, I get sick. That's when I'm more likely to have colds and other ailments.

People with positive outlooks spread cheer. They seem to have an aura of brightness around them. That kind of aura promotes well-being. It is not negative to think positively. It is not a bad thing for one's health to believe he/she will get better. The mind has a great deal of power. I would like for CBS to revisit this issue with a more in depth investigation of the power of positive thinking.

I Have a Magic Wand

2011-11-21T14:16:00.000-08:00

I have a magic wand. The way I obtained it is a magical story all by itself.

Two years ago, we visited Carmel-by-the-Sea on the coast of California. This is an enchanting, unique area with some of the most gorgeous scenery I've ever seen. While touring several of the shops that populate the lovely village, I decided to enter a small jewelry store, Robin's Jewelry. While in the shop, I spoke with a charming young woman who was creating some of the items for sale there. Then, all of a sudden, I realized it was getting close to sunset and I wanted to go into the nearby state park to photograph the setting sun amidst a spectacular background.

As I headed to the door, the young woman followed me. She said that she had something for me and then handed me a silver-colored wand formed from heavy aluminum wire. A swirl of pink and blue ribbons floated at the end. I was both surprised and delighted.

"Carmel Sunset" MM Sikes

Even the glorious sunset of which I took dozens of pictures was no match for my gift of a magic wand. You see, I brought my wand back to Virginia and have used it in my art classroom ever since. My elementary school children love to close their eyes and make a wish before they leave my room. Touched by an amazing California magic wand, who knows how many special wishes have come true?

I wonder now how a stranger knew that I needed a magic wand. She surely has the kindness gene and has passed along an abundance of magic sprinkled over the heads of smiling little boys and girls a continent away.

Magic and dreams. I'm glad I have a magic wand.

The Kindness Gene - Do You Have It?

2011-11-20T11:33:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, while watching the CBS Early Show, I heard about the kindness gene for the first time. The interviewer was discussing a study in which people appeared able to tell if someone had the gene or not. Apparently, in many cases they can.

Some people appear to be naturally kind; others, not so much. The teachers at our elementary school are working hard to teach young children to be respectful and responsible. The students are learning to have good manners, and I often see them demonstrate acts of kindness for each other.

All of this has started me thinking about the importance of kindness in society. If everyone had the kindness gene, perhaps there would be no wars. Maybe if people possessed empathy, they would figure out ways to peacefully resolve their problems. Perhaps even members of Congress would be able to work together.

Obviously, everyone does not have the kindness gene. Do you?

Words That Show Are Like Paintings That Tell

2011-11-18T13:28:00.000-08:00

"Pure Caribbean sunlight fell in sparkling sheets across the freshly-painted counters of the expanded Sugar Mill Gift Shop."

These words show a picture. During my radio interview earlier this week with Neal Steele, on EXTRA 99.1, Neal read this sentence that begins one of the final chapters in my new book, Jungle Jeopardy.
I was pleased that he likes my writing, and his response started me thinking about the importance of visualization in writing.

As writers we struggle to use just the right words to allow the readers to see inside their own minds the images we are attempting to picture. We need for our readers to view the story in the vivid way we are trying so hard to reveal to them through our words. The artist is doing the same thing in a different way because, as artists, we are painting the picture to show our viewer a story.

"The Ponderer" by MM Sikes

I suppose that as writers and as artists we are stimulating the imaginations of our readers. As an art teacher, I love to encourage children to use their imaginations by closing their eyes and seeing images in their minds. After all, words that show are like paintings that tell.

On Sat., Nov. 19, 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., I have a book signing at Twice Told Tales, Main St., Gloucester Court House, VA

The Jefferson Hotel - Breaking Out from the Coffee Table

2011-11-12T15:07:00.000-08:00

Several years ago I was thrilled to create a coffee table book, Hotels to Remember, that featured not only my writing but also my art and my photographs. Most of the photographs for this book were taken not with a book in mind but for the joy of recording a time and place we were visiting. Eventually, I realized that because I loved so many of the hotels I was documenting, perhaps I actually had a book.

When I pitched a romance novel I was writing to an agent at a conference, I also mentioned my idea for a "hotels" book. To my delight, the agent called back several weeks later and asked me to write the book that eventually became Hotels to Remember. I included my favorite hotels, most of them historic from many different locations, and highlighted each section with original paintings of the hotels. To make the book more interesting, I wrote articles about side trips associated with the areas. This book became not an ordinary travel manual but an art book. Eventually, we decided that the book might become too big if I used every hotel I wanted to include. Although I already had paintings, photos, and stories, I removed my Hawaiian destinations, a few Caribbean hotels, and several from the States. My intention was to create a second book, More Hotels to Remember. That book has not yet come to fruition.

Not long after publication of Hotels to Remember, I began to realize how quickly hotel properties can change. Before the ink was dry on my book, one of the hotels had expanded to double its original size. Another hotel had reconstructed its exterior, so the front entrance was gone, replaced by a restaurant. Others had switched from one hotel chain to another. I was upset.

Then, I came to realize that to be viable hotels must change. What I had written about them and the photographs I had taken were only a snapshot in time. But they were wonderful snapshots that depicted a special time and place.

You can imagine my excitement when a few months ago my publisher decided to take some of the hotels from my coffee table book and create the "Snapshot in Time" series. The Jefferson Hotel is the first of this series. A hard cover book focusing on only one hotel, this little book is perfect for libraries and gift shops.

My publisher describes these new books as break out books. For me, they are breaking out from the coffee table into a wider arena. I love the concept.

Magic in a Box

2011-11-07T17:14:00.000-08:00

I'd forgotten how many wires crisscross beneath my desk as I write at my computer. Yesterday, I was amazed as I looked at the puzzle that stretched out beneath my feet. My husband patiently untangled each wire and handed them to me one by one to attach to the appropriate opening on my new computer. I was thankful he knew the meaning and purpose for each of those little wires with the pretty colors on the ends because I didn't have a clue.

I wonder how many writers are out there like me, setting up scenes, lost in the magic of story, yet completely unaware of how our computers work, how we string words together and place them in a file to retrieve again electronically whenever we need them.

The other day I watched a movie about Virginia Wolfe and saw her writing her stories on paper with a pen that she dipped into a bottle of ink. Writing was so much harder then, I think. There was no magic locked in a little black box.

Perhaps though, the writer of that time had a far greater sense of accomplishment when he held the final product--a finished book--in his hand. It's much easier now to get published. There are so many writers out there that seldom is one writer unique.

Still, I am surprised, and pleased, when a perfect stranger walks up and is in awe of you, the writer.

As I look beneath my desk today, the maze of wires appears to have grown. I still don't know what they are. I only know there is magic inside the box that is my new computer. And I am glad!

Making An Impact

2011-10-31T15:21:00.000-07:00

Every now and then, someone comes along who is bigger than life. Sometimes we don't realize or appreciate the impact of that person until he/she is gone.

Earlier this month, our little town lost a special citizen--a man who adopted this community just over a decade ago. He saw possibilities where others saw problems. He was a visionary who believed in a small southern town that sometimes got lost in its own history.

Now, as I look down the main street, I see a roadway and sidewalks transformed and updated because of his dedication and efforts that helped propel the community into action. Because he was a beekeeper, I'll always think of him when I see a jar of honey. When I watch people play tennis on the town courts, I'll remember the joy he gained from early morning matches.

He was involved in so much. I interviewed him at least three times for profile stories in the Daily Press. He worked with Meals on Wheels, the Good Neighbor Center, the local schools, Kiwanis, and more.

When I look at the daylillies blooming along the town streets, I'll remember the cold day he went with my husband to dig up the donated plants from a nursery field in a neighboring county. I'll remember and be glad I knew this man and that he came to our community.

He made an impact. Are you making an impact?

Not Having My Computer Changes Things

2011-10-24T14:50:00.000-07:00

Not having my computer with all my files and photos on it is really hard. Normally, I work on something every day, especially during the weekend and on Mondays after tennis. Now I don't have access to any of my files. The laptop is a convenience to take a look at e-mails, but I really miss my usual tools and my normal e-mail format in Outlook. Although my husband and daughters are working diligently on getting back my hard drive, I don't know what will happen. I will probably get a new computer since I understand that old ones wear out. I didn't realize I had owned this one long enough for it to wear out. Time has a way of slipping by.

I now have some resolutions to keep once my life is back up and running.

1. Use a flash fob to back up new files each day.
2. Have an auxiliary computer as a backup in the event of computer failure.
3. Store photos in My Documents, not on the "C" Drive.
4. Make copies of important photos and other work on CDs.
5. Learn more about Drop Box and make use of that free storage space.

I'm thankful so many people are willing to help. Eventually, I'll have another computer holding my life in its clutches. I hope I'll know better then and will not take my electronic life for granted!

Do You Depend on Your Computer?

2011-10-21T17:03:00.000-07:00

Today has been a dismal Friday. I knew I depended on my computer but didn't realize until this morning quite how much.

My major computer is down. It's the one with all my documents, photos, and addresses. It's my life in cyberspace all on one computer.

Tomorrow, I'm making a talk about writing for the Fredericksburg Writers Group in the morning. I also have a book signing scheduled tomorrow afternoon from 2 to 4 at the Griffin Bookshop on Caroline St. With my crowded weekly schedule, today was the day for me to get my talk ready, make new business cards, and create new flyers and other graphic materials. That didn't happen. I was going to send last-minute reminders and information about the book signing. That didn't happen either.

This evening, I also planned to attend a Homecoming Reception for alumni art students at the College of William and Mary. I'd looked forward to that event for quite some time. That also didn't happen because I lost so much time trying to fix the computer problem. Instead, I stayed home and found materials for Plan B tomorrow.

How much do you depend on your computer? Do you live your life in cyberspace?

Loving the Cardinals - It's Hard for the Fans

2011-10-17T17:07:00.000-07:00

Tony LaRussa at Spring Training

It's been about eight months since my husband and I flew into Ft. Lauderdale, Florida and headed to Jupiter for Baseball Spring Training with the St. Louis Cardinals. The first day we were there, we learned that the co-ace of the pitching staff, Adam Wainwright, would be out for the season with Tommy John surgery. That was a terrible blow for the team and diminished their hopes for a post-season run. All the while, Cardinals manager, Tony La Russa, remained upbeat. Spring training is such a special time because every team has hope, some teams more than others. Despite everything, Tony and the Cardinals had that hope.

In late March, the Cardinals started this season with a flurry of losses, making their prospects seem even more dismal. With a multitude of injuries, they plodded along and eventually spent a while in first place before they eventually went on an eight-game losing streak.

During the baseball season, on every trip we took, I had to find a sports bar with satellite TV so we could see the Cardinals play. We discovered sports bars in Boone, NC, Lake Tahoe, CA, Las Vegas, NV, Hilton Head, SC, and up and down Lake Michigan and Lake Superior in Wisconsin and Michigan.

The last week of August, the Cardinals were far behind the Central Division-leading Milwaukee Brewers and 10 1/2 games behind in the Wild Card race. How could they possibly make it to the postseason playoffs?

But they did.

David Freese at Spring Training

The team began a magical run and overtook the Atlanta Braves on the last day of the season to take the Wild Card. Then, in an unlikely scenario, they defeated three outstanding pitchers from the Philadelphia Phillies that had been hailed as the best team in baseball with the best pitching staff. Who would have dreamed it?

Last night, the Cardinals won over the Milwaukee Brewers and will now head to the World Series against the Texas Rangers. And, it was not Albert Pujols, but it was instead third baseman David Freese who was named most valuable player in the National League Championship series.

All the while, dedicated fans like us watched every game. For the last six weeks, each game we followed was a "must win" situation. It's been really hard on the fans because we have no control over what happens.

Still, this year, 2011, the St. Louis Cardinals have been the team of destiny. And we've watched every pitch from beginning to end.

Will this team of destiny become baseball's World Champions? It's still an unlikely scenario, or so I've heard. But, I'm hoping...

Pay It Forward Blogfest

2011-10-14T14:41:00.000-07:00

The Pay It Forward Blogfest from Matthew MacNish at The Quintessentially Questionable Query Experiment and Alex J. Cavanaugh is designed to get participants to spread the word about three blogs that are special for them. Hopefully, you will visit the ones suggested by blogfest participants.

Here are my three:

Sunny Room Studio because it's magical to visit there. Daisy Hickman writes beautiful messages and posts gorgeous photographs she has taken. A visit to her studio makes you feel good about the world. Please take a look.

In Time because there's always a story posted. Michael Di Gesu writes amazing Y A stories that will capture your imagination.

Straight from Hel because of the informative articles. I always learn something interesting or important when I visit Helen Ginger's blog site.

I hope you'll visit these blogs as well as those of Matthew MacNish and Alex Cavenaugh. Also, as many others from the blog fest participants as you can. That's well over 200 at this point.

What Do You Do to Advertise Your Books?

2011-10-10T00:01:00.000-07:00

How should authors go about advertising? That's a question we all ponder on a daily basis. Should we set up a blog book tour? Should we hire someone with more knowledge and contacts than we have to set it up for us? We do interviews. We visit lots of blogs. We post on as many sites as possible. Yet sometimes we can't help but wonder if much of what we do is simply lost in cyberspace.

I hope not.

The people I've met by blogging in the last year and a half have been wonderful and inspirational. I don't know that meeting these folks has resulted in any book sales, but my life is richer just from getting to know them.

I was interested to read an information request on one of my lists yesterday. A writer wanted to know if she had a well-edited book, could she expect to realize $1000 in sales each month from that book? She has received a variety of answers from that question, including one that said she should expect to put sales proceeds back into promotion, advertising, and building name-recognition for about the first five years.

How and when to advertise is a complicated issue. What's important to you about advertising? Do you have a magic formula to share?

Here's my next event in advertising. There'll be a lot of writers tailgating, so hope we find some new readers along the way.

Fall for a Writer Tailgate Party-Book Signing
October 15th, 2011, 10Am-2Pm
3714 Richmond Rd., Keswick, VA

Writing an Adventure Story and Being a Guest on In Time

2011-10-07T00:01:00.000-07:00

What kind of story do you like to write? Before I began Jungle Jeopardy, I had never actually written an adventure story. My field was romance with some mystery and a murder or two thrown in. I thought adventure might be fun, but I didn't realize how much until I was well into the story. Then I could hardly wait to get back to work day after day. Like so many stories, the characters took over and led the way. How exciting!

I started to wonder about what drives writers to create their work. Do all writers love what they do or is it work for some, maybe work they don't really enjoy. Recently, I helped a writer with a blog. I realized she was struggling, but I didn't understand how much until she told me she didn't really like to write. That truly surprised me. Probably because I have always been driven to write. I loved to write at an early age. Last Sunday, when Andy Rooney told his CBS audience that it was his last show for 60 Minutes, he said he was not retiring. Writers can never retire, he pointed out. And he was so right.

How can anyone retire when he/she is driven? Writers are like that. They discover new things, other styles, a different muse that they must follow.

I discovered adventure. Think Indiana Jones. Now I must write adventure stories maybe for just a little while.


"Jungle Beat" MM Sikes

Today I am a guest of Michael Di Gesu's blog, In Time. Michael has reviewed my new adventure story, Jungle Jeopardy, and we'll talk about it. Please take a moment and visit Michael's blog. I'd love to see your comments.

"Jungle Beat," the painting that inspired the cover for Jungle Jeopardy is shown on the left. Art and writing will be forever linked in my mind and in my work.

Bringing People to Your Blog

2011-10-01T08:22:00.000-07:00

You've spent a lot of time. You've researched your subject, and you've written a wonderful, informative post on your blog. But no one visits. No one comments. How can that be?

Several years ago, I started writing occasional blog posts, but no one ever saw them. No one came to visit. I had no followers.

That changed when I took the blog book tour class taught by Dani Greer. Her class was intense but productive. It turned my blogging life around. I just went to her Blog Book Tours site and found some of her excellent instruction there ready for review by anyone who visits. I hope you'll take a look.

During that class, I discovered a number of wonderful bloggers like Alex Cavanaugh who surely never sleeps because he comments faithfully on everyone's blogs, writes new blogs virtually every day, sees every movie known to man and reviews most of them, writes books, has blogfests, etc., etc. I would love to be like Alex, but my life appears to be too scattered.

Here are some tips I have learned that can help one become a better blogger:

1. Focus. Pick a topic and become known mostly for that topic. Alex is known for his movie reviews. And, no, scattered is not a good topic!

2. Visit the blogs of others. Follow the blogs you like.

3. Tweet about your blog and the blogs you follow.

4. Post regularly, even if it is only once or twice a week.

5. Write often about those things that will help others. Write sometimes about the things you love. Although I don't believe I have many artists among my followers, I sometimes cannot resist writing about art. Occasionally, I need to write about baseball as well. That's definitely breaking the rule on focus.

6. Join blogfests that interest you. You'll meet new people there and make friends. You'll expand your horizon.

7. Spend an hour a day, if you can, developing your blogging skills. If you can only spare 30 minutes, use that time to your advantage. It will be time well-spent.

8. Take a look at your blog statistics and see which posts attract the most visitors. I have never topped the number of visitors I got the day I posted my thoughts on the sudden ending to the Medium television series.

Good luck with blogging. It's an exciting way for a writer to touch readers.

If you have a chance, please visit the Night Writers blog where I am posting twice a month, 1st and 15th about travel.

Painting En Plein Air

2011-09-26T07:27:00.000-07:00

"Hats by the Powder Horn" acrylic/canvas MMSikes

Painting en plein air has always sounded intriguing to me, but I never tried it before last Saturday. Although it rained some off and on, the weather was not too bad. Since I use a variety of materials and larger canvases than many artists, I can't move my work station quickly in the event of sudden rain showers. Because of that I found a protected alcove where I could paint using photographs I'd taken earlier in the week in the restored area of Colonial Williamsburg.

"Colonial Garden" MMSikes

I was thrilled to create two new paintings from scratch. Normally, I would never have spent all day Saturday painting. This was fun! Next time, hopefully the weather will be sunny. Maybe I'll get a French easel, but for my work it will have to be a big one.

What I Did On My Summer Vacation Blogfest

2011-09-23T07:50:00.000-07:00

Usually my vacation trips are all about writing. This summer was no exception.

With camera in hand and a notebook at the ready, we explored Lake Tahoe in early June. How strange to see the snow-covered mountain tops soon after leaving the heat and humidity of Virginia. The lovely crystal clear lake forms an unforgettable scene. I learned from several people that it's not always so lovely. The lake can have high winds and waves that once fooled early explorers into thinking they had reached the ocean.

Our next summer trip was to Las Vegas. No, this was not a journey to visit the casinos or the shows, although I spent a lot of time parading among the slot machines to get to meeting rooms in the sprawling hotel. Instead, it was a trip to the Public Safety Writers conference where I appeared on several panels. I loved meeting with my publisher, Billie Johnson of Oak Tree Press, and other writers I knew or had wanted to see in person.

Between those two trips, I set up an artist show of my "Monti Just for Fun" loose little acrylic paintings of various glasses, bottles, and more in the Glen Allen Cultural Arts Center in Richmond, VA. These paintings feature the joyfulness of pattern and color and created a happy Slantwall display at the Center for the month of July.

In August we headed to Wisconsin where our daughter drove us over much of the eastern section of the state along Lake Michigan into the Upper Peninsula. There, at the tip of the land projection into Lake Superior, we learned a lot about the old copper mines that once brought great wealth into the area. We had dinner with Mary Ann Beckwith, one of my favorite artists, during a stay in Hancock. Later, we headed to Milwaukee for three days at the Pfister Hotel, visits to the art museum on the waterfront, and much more. Along the way, we discovered the Fonz statue by the river side, and I was happy to have my camera.

This sounds like the summer of the lakes! I'll be posting more about these trips as I find time.

Please visit Michael Di Gesu's blog and find the names of others participating in this blogfest.

On Saturday, September 24, I'll be in Williamsburg as one of the En Plein Air artists. This sounds like a fun event if only the rain will stay away.

Artist in Residence at the Pfister Hotel

2011-09-20T14:21:00.000-07:00

Artist in Residence Shelby Keefe - MM Sikes Photo

What fun to be the artist-in-residence! Especially at the historic Pfister Hotel in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Shelby Keefe was named the hotel's third artist-in-residence last February. A contemporary impressionistic painter and performance artist, Shelby follows a portrait painter in the residency program.

During her year at the Pfister, Shelby is occupying a large studio and gallery space right off the lobby. She keeps regular hours in the hotel, painting on her easel and chatting with visitors about her art. She also maintains a studio in the city at Hide House where quite a few artists create their work.

Besides maintaining her studios, Shelby also paints to music, performing in front of an audience where she creates 20-minute paintings. Since 2002, she has worked on 30 by 30 inch canvasses in front of viewers, often painting to music that she herself has created.

"The work is much quicker and intuitive," she says because she's performing under the pressure of time, audience, and loud music.

Because of its extensive Victorian art collection that is the "largest of its kind in any hotel in the world," the Pfister Hotel has a special relationship to the arts. As a painter, I am thrilled to walk into the Pfister and view all the special and wonderful art on view there.

Jungle Jeopardy, An Adventure Story

2011-09-16T08:02:00.000-07:00

Jungle Jeopardy, an adventure novel, will be featured during my book signing today at Discover Teas, Village Shops at Kingsmill in Williamsburg. I'm excited about this book because it's my first adventure story--think Indiana Jones--and it focuses on the Maya ruins in Central America, a subject that fascinates me. Dana and Clifton, the heroine and hero, from Secrets by the Sea continue their search for the Brasher doubloon in this book. Tyler Hunter is a new character who intrigues me.

While Jungle Jeopardy is a stand-alone book, readers may want to first learn about Dana and Clifton in Secrets by the Sea before opening the new book. I still find it amazing that characters come in and take over their own stories. Things have a way of turning out not at all the way I planned!

Branding - What Can It Do for You?

2011-09-12T07:40:00.000-07:00

Branding is the concept that developing a specific image for you or your product will make you more recognizable and memorable in the marketplace. One of the most important components of branding is a logo. The Nike logo is a perfect example of great branding. You recognize it everywhere. The font on the Coca Cola can is an example of using another kind of imagery in branding. After experimenting with several different font designs, Pepsi appears now to have settled on a Pepsi Max font. All the while, Pepsi has an unmistakable logo that make its products stand out in the marketplace.

For writers, branding can be especially important. Over the years while attending conferences and book signings, I've noticed that certain authors really know how to use branding to their advantage. Several who write paranormal fiction wear long, dark skirts and have the appearance of their heroines. Those authors with western themes may arrive sporting boots and cowboy hats. The ideas for dressing the part and developing a brand are endless and compelling.

*As you develop your brand, keep in mind your logo and use it everywhere you can.

*Use only one or two fonts and stay with Times New Roman, Arial, or Verdana whenever possible.

*Choose a color theme, and stick with it.

*Use the fonts and colors on your blogs, e-mails, web sites, brochures, posters, and wherever else it's appropriate.

What can branding do for you? More than you think.

Try it and find out.

The Day That Changed the World

2011-09-11T07:09:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful, bright sunny day, but it was a dark and turbulent day. It was September 11, 2001. It was the day that changed the world.

"Bright Day, Dark Day" MMSikes

I was at the elementary school with my young art students when it all happened. In the teachers' lounge, I watched the buildings collapse. Wisely, our principal cautioned us not to tell the children. I thought, the world will never be the same for them. It will never be as it was before.

Our daughter, a pilot with one of the airlines involved that day, was supposed to be flying. I didn't know where.

Today, I listen as the roll call goes on for those who lost their lives that day. My heart is heavy for their loss and for our loss. We all lost our innocence that day ten years ago.

And now the good angels look down...

Getting Things Done and Organized

2011-09-08T17:46:00.000-07:00

Organize your schedule.

Easier said than done.

Do all writers have the problem of organization? Or are some folks naturally more organized than others?

I have two new novels coming out this year. Jungle Jeopardy, an adventure story set in Central America, was recently released by my publisher. A Rainbow for Christmas, a sweet romance set on a wagon train, will be out in late October. That means I now have a double problem of organizing and promotion because I have two new books.

Unfortunately, although I know better, I have done little to promote either book. During the summer, we took trips that I would be unable to undertake any other time of year. Those trips put me way behind in setting up events for my books. However, those trips also gave me background and exotic settings for future books.

I have scheduled a radio interview with Neil Steel, several book signings, a talk, and a tailgate art show which sounds like lots of fun. But there is way more to be done. Jungle Jeopardy has a big tie-in with Maya ruins. A few years ago, I painted a big series of large acrylic paintings of the Maya ruins we had visited. Now, I want to set up art exhibitions with those paintings tied to my book signings. Hopefully, I can figure it out by connecting with art departments of the universities I attended.

So much to do.

I'm making a list of all the possibilities. Of all the potential. There is more to do than will fit into a normal seven day week.

It would help a lot to be organized.

I'm trying ...

Are you organized? I would love to know how other writers think.

Hotels to Remember -- The Pfister

2011-09-02T13:44:00.000-07:00

As an author of travel articles for many years, I think one of the nicest compliments you can give an old, historic hotel is to say that it hasn't changed a lot. Hotels have to change and update to keep up with the times, attract new business, and maintain loyal customers. However, if old hotels change too much, they will no longer retain the image that made them special. On a recent visit to the Pfister in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, I was happy to discover that while changes have been made, the overall appearance and ambience of the hotel has remained the same.

The amazing lobby ceiling still gives the sensation of viewing early 16th century art by Michaelangelo in the Sistine Chapel in Rome. Other valuable original paintings and sculptures remain on exhibition throughout the hotel. While featuring modern amenities, the guestrooms in the original century-old building retain an early 20th century charm.

The Old English Tavern downstairs has been replaced with a spa, but the Lobby Lounge is still filled with strains of piano music provided by talented musicians. The change I noticed most was that the green exterior awnings are now red. Since I created my painting of the Pfister when the awnings were green, I was a little disappointed. However, change is good, and the red attracts attention. Maybe I'll be inspired to make yet another painting of the Pfister.

Whatever is written or painted about historic hotels can only be "a snapshot in time." That is true of all Hotels to Remember.

Fortunate in a Damaged Area -- Americans Can Be Proud

2011-08-30T14:03:00.000-07:00

This morning I heard that well over 400,000 Dominion Power Customers were still without electrical power. Yesterday, the number was 1.2 million, so that was a big improvement. People in lower King William County (Virginia) may not get their power back for quite some time because trees fell across the lines in so many places along the main highway.

Although we live in the midst of countless trees, we were quite fortunate. The only tree that fell on our property was uprooted and dropped over into the branches of another big sturdy tree. Since it poses no danger for anyone at this point, this scarlet oak will remain as is for a while. We were surprised to see such a shallow root system for this mighty oak. Many homes and yards sustained damage during this storm that hammered our area with dangerous winds for over five straight hours. Unlike Hurricane Isabel we were spared the flood waters this time. Our power was out about 36 hours, so we are so much better off than many others who do not know when their electricity will be restored.

We all owe thanks to the many Dominion Power employees and community volunteers who are working day and night to restore services and safety. People helping people. Americans can be proud.

Do We Own the Land? Fire, Earthquake, and Hurricane

2011-08-26T11:46:00.000-07:00

This has been quite a week in Virginia. I returned home with plans for doing a lot of write in between attending teacher workshops and meetings. We were met with a smoky haze and the news from a nearby neighbor that the previous week one day she couldn't see our house from her window because of the smoke. That smoke is coming from an uncontrolled fire in the Great Dismal Swamp located in southeastern Virginia. If the wind shifts in the right direction, we get the smoke. The smoke is not pleasant.

Then, earlier this week, as I stood in my art studio, some gigantic animal raced back and forth across our roof. I stared at the skylights, certain they would shatter at any moment. My husband was in another upstairs room and thought a large helicopter was landing on the roof. He also watched trees and the building sway during the commotion. All the while, in my studio, the angel wind chimes played a magical tune. Of course, since they hang against the indoor wall as decoration, I had never before heard them play. It all turned out to be a 5.8 earthquake. The only earthquake I'd felt before was a small shaking in California a few years ago. The skylights didn't break, but I had a funny, unsettling feeling for the remainder of the day.

"Remnants of a Storm"

Now, here comes Hurricane Irene, and we are right in its path. In 2003, Isabel dealt our community a terrible blow as hurricane winds blew directly up our three rivers at high tide. Many people living on the point of the peninsula where our town is located lost their homes or suffered severe damage to them. Our house is on higher ground, but I recall looking out the window at the height of the storm to see the Mattaponi River and West Point Creek united into one vast body of raging water. We lost many trees during that storm, including a tall oak and most of the fruit trees nurtured in our orchard. One tree, located close to our house, blew down but fell away in the opposite direction blocking a street.

What is going on? I wonder. Do we really own the land? Nature has control; we do not. Sometimes we need to remember that. Sometimes like now.

Just joined the Campaigner Challenge. Paying forward. I like the concept.

Getting There by Bus and Visiting Rhinelander

2011-08-22T16:32:00.000-07:00

It's been a very long time since we've traveled anywhere by bus, so I was pretty reluctant when Olen suggested we use a bus during our trip in Wisconsin. However, we were in Milwaukee, and we needed to get to Wausau to meet our daughter. When we checked on renting a car one-way, we found it would cost over $200, plus we would be driving in a congested unknown city without our GPS. Since there was no train service to throw into the mix, I decided to reconsider. Olen had spent time researching Lamers Bus service in Wisconsin and wanted to try it out.

We truly enjoyed the five-hour bus ride to Wausau because we got to tour parts of Wisconsin we hadn't seen before. Some of the towns were university communities, so we drove through a variety of pretty areas. Our daughter met us at the bus terminal located not far from the hotel where were spent the night.

The next day en route to Upper Michigan, we stopped to tour Rhinelander. This is a pleasant community with a sewing machine shop in the midst of the downtown. Although I used to make many of my clothes using my Singer sewing machine, I had not seen machines for sale in quite a few years. The new versions, no longer Singer, fascinated and amazed me with their versatility and possibility.

Oneida County Courthouse MM Sikes

We had lunch at the Rhinelander Cafe and Pub, then decided to walk to the Oneida County Courthouse, a building with a truly impressive Tiffany glass dome. Built in 1910, the courthouse is worth a visit just to see the famous dome.

One of the Hodags MM Sikes

We discovered that Rhinelander is also famous for its Hodags. This fierce creature from folklore has gained quite a following there. Some of the athletic teams bear the name Hodag.

Ever seen a Hoday? There are a few different versions scattered around Rhinelander.

More to come ...

Turning a Trip into an Adventure

2011-08-19T18:20:00.000-07:00

As the "Passenger to Paradise" I love to travel and to discover new places and adventures for my writing. It seems no matter where we go, some part of our journey turns into an unexpected adventure. Our latest trip to the Midwest was no exception.

"Looking Down from 40,000 Feet" MM Sikes

On August 8, we headed to Richmond International Airport with a planned destination at Wausau, Wisconsin. However, because the airport's long runway is closed for repairs, the regional jets have been forced to use a shorter runway. That means weight limitations, and that day about eight passengers were cut from each flight. When we realized we probably would not make it out of Richmond that day on the regional, we made a quick decision to inquire about a flight on another airline with a plane ready to depart for Atlanta in 10 minutes. On the other airline, we would fly into the Milwaukee Airport instead of Wausau. We made a snap decision to purchase tickets on that flight and just made it on the plane prior to takeoff. We changed planes in Atlanta and landed in Milwaukee in early evening without knowing where we would stay.

Along the way while flying at 40,000 feet, I enjoyed gazing down at the clouds. I kept thinking that in the not too distant future, we may be looking down from space stations orbiting high above the earth and seeing entire continents and oceans, not just clouds. It will be as routine as flying on commercial airliners today.

The General Mitchell International Airport is an attractive facility. We quickly found the hotel display area and started calling around. Although Best Western hotels had fallen into disfavor with us, I liked the display photos as well as the nearby location and decided to call. A pleasant young man named Ricco answered and because of the restaurants located within the hotel and the guest room overlooking the pool that he mentioned, I was persuaded to try Best Western. Ricco turned out to be the shuttle driver as well as the desk clerk who checked us in. His outgoing personality was an important determining factor which will make me consider Best Western Plus on another travel journey.

Moral of this story is when traveling, be flexible, be aware, and enjoy the journey. And, of course, be ready for any adventure that may present itself. More about this trip in my next blog.

Coming Home

2011-08-18T13:42:00.000-07:00

We just returned from a magical trip to many beautiful locations in the Midwest, including Lambeau Field, home of the Green Bay Packers! We even journeyed up to the tip of the thumb of Michigan that sticks out into Lake Superior. I'll be blogging about these adventures in the coming days.

I'm sorry I didn't have time to line up blog posts during my absence, but time caught up with me and I couldn't do everything. Thank you to those who continued to visit my blog and found nothing new!

Thank you, Alex Cavanaugh, for the Liebster Blog award given me while I was gone. This recognizes bloggers with less than 200 followers. I'll pass this along later to some other bloggers. My goal is to gain more than 200 followers before the end of the year!

Yoga, Being Present, Being a Writer

2011-08-07T19:03:00.000-07:00

Grand Canyon area MM Sikes

For almost a year, I've taken a yoga class once a week. It's important to me for stretching, balance, and an overall feeling of well-being.

Tonight, at the end of the class where I tried to practice poses and more, I thought about how yoga and being present are related. As a writer, I always seem to be thinking and living in the future. Perhaps that's the way writers have to live their lives--writing, planning, and conceiving ideas for the next book. Sadly, we have to plan how to schedule and promote that next project. As workers and planners, we are never in the present. At least, it seems I'm not.

However, when I'm in yoga class, I have to be in the present, following directions for the stretches and poses. There, I am being in the present and living for the moment.

Living for the moment. What a refreshing concept!

Being a flower. Being a mountain. Being a piece of the magnificent Grand Canyon. Not thinking, not planning.

Being in the present! How good is that!!?

Soul Survivor Book Review - A Child Remembers Past Life as a Pilot

2011-08-04T15:17:00.000-07:00

For all my life, books about reincarnation have intrigued me. My mother was shocked by the interest of her young child in the subject. My grandmother was not. A couple of months ago, my daughter Allison noticed Soul Survivor on the Amazon page with my reincarnation novel, Hearts Across Forever, listed as bought along with it. She ordered a copy for me.

Because Bruce Leininger, like my mother, was not a believer in reincarnation, I found this story compelling. Imagine a two-year-old, just learning to talk, with screaming nightmares saying, "Plane on fire! Little man can't get out!" James' mother was terrified for her child, yet captivated as she discovered more unusual things her child "knew" that he couldn't know. His parents were surprised by James' fascination with World War II aircraft, especially the Corsair.

Using the Internet, Bruce started investigating the word James mentioned, Natoma, and eventually found a World War II aircraft carrier by that name. When he discovered a group of World War II veterans from the ship who held annual reunions, Bruce wound up attending some of them under the guise that he was writing a book about the Natoma Bay. In his at first skeptical investigations, he discovered many things that James actually knew including the name of the pilot whose life James remembers that was killed at Chichi-Jima.

There are photographs of drawings James created of airplane battles as a three-year-old that he signed "James 3." Bruce tracked down the family of James Huston, Jr., the pilot who died the day he was expected to return home, including his sister Anne who was still alive. What little James remembered and told Anne amazed her--things no one else could possibly know.

I've read about cases suggestive of reincarnation before, but these children lived in India and other countries in that part of the world where the belief is prevalent. This is the first book I've encountered in the United States about a case of a child recalling a past life.

If you've ever wondered about the possibility of reincarnation, you'll want to read this book. I would love to see the ABC Primetime show that aired in April 2004. Perhaps the TV show will run a repeat or even follow up on what James is doing now.

Where Are the World's Best Crab Cakes?

2011-07-31T12:25:00.000-07:00

For many years, crab cakes have been my favorite entree. My mother made the most delicious crab cakes using back fin crab meat and no filler except egg to bind the meat together. Once when I was about 12, Mother was called away for an emergency, and I was left with crab meat to create cakes on my own. Since I didn't know what to do, they were a disaster and my father took me to a restaurant for dinner.

In recent years, I've tried crab cakes in a lot of restaurants. Often, they are made with too much filler and are more like bread or stuffing cakes. Since I've gotten used to the blue crabs found in the rivers off the Chesapeake Bay, it's hard to travel far and find good crab cakes. Early in the summer, when we were at Lake Tahoe, I ordered the crab and found it had a completely different flavor there. Once, I ordered the crab cakes in an Irish pub in Hilton Head, SC only to discover they weren't at all what I expected.

Back Fin of Williamsburg, VA usually has good crab cakes especially in the summer when back fin crab is abundant. Last week, I dined in Amuse Restaurant at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and discovered the best crab cake entree I've had in a long time.

I've never learned to cook crab cakes myself, but wherever we travel, I'll continue to try to find the world's best crab cakes.

What about your area? Do you have the world's best crab cakes?

Deciding How to Label Your Books

2011-07-29T17:17:00.000-07:00

How do you decide what label to put on your book? Is it sweet romance, romance, mystery/suspense, contemporary, Gothic, or even a combination that makes it more difficult to tag or label? Any of those categories may be easier to label than a book with paranormal elements like I often write.

My first novel, Hearts Across Forever, has a reincarnation theme, so I labeled it paranormal. That seemed to work out fine. Secrets by the Sea has ghosts, so paranormal works okay for it as well. Then along came Night Watch, and things got a little sticky. You see, my main character may or may not be a "walk-in". Readers may or may not like the concept of a "walk-in". What's that? you ask.

A walk-in is someone who has agreed to come into the body of a soul who for some reason wants to leave. The two souls make an agreement, and the second takes the place of the first. The "walk-in" has memories of the previous soul but also has some of his or her own. It's a little like reincarnation except on a more immediate level.

Night Watch is more difficult for me to label as paranormal because so many readers think of paranormal books as ones having vampires, shape shifters, or werewolves. Anyone looking for these elements probably won't like Night Watch. A contest judge may not understand the walk-in concept and will find this book hard to judge. Someone suggested that it should be labeled occult/supernatural. That label doesn't seem right to me either.

What to do? I don't know what label to give my book. For the future, I think it might be best to write a book that doesn't have elements that lie in the gray area. I need to write books that are easier to define.

But that may be easier said than done.

Are You a Professional Writer?

2011-07-24T10:08:00.000-07:00

Writing is hard work. I don't do it for fun nor do I do it for the satisfaction of seeing my name in print.

The exhilaration of viewing my byline on an article vanished long ago after my name had appeared many times on feature articles published in a major city newspaper. Those articles often took weeks to compile after numerous phone calls and research in old books, magazines, and newspapers. I spent hours digging up information for the stories I wrote about people, locations, and events in my rural location in Virginia before I would even start writing. Then I would go to the site and take the photographs necessary to go with the story. My outstanding editor taught me to how to edit, a skill that has aided me in all the writing I have created since that time.

For breaking news and for coverage of local governing bodies, I had to call in and dictate my articles to someone on the state news desk in the city. All of this was done using an electric typewriter without the luxury of instant correction we have now on our computers. Because I wrote for one of those afternoon newspapers that no longer exist, I submitted my stories early in the morning before I left home for my job teaching school.

Although the pay was meager, my writing provided extra funds to enhance our family income. It provided money for trips our family of five might not have taken otherwise.

In addition to the hundreds of stories written for newspapers, I also have written many travel articles including my favorite ones about journeys to the Caribbean islands. Some of these stories have appeared in magazines for airlines and other places. Because I love to relive these often exotic experiences, stories about the islands don't seem quite as hard to write.

Some of my adventures are now turning up between the covers of books. My publisher has labeled these novels, "Passenger to Paradise." A couple of years ago, she designed a logo for them which is the same image I use for my Notes Along the Way blog. I love the logo because I learned long ago to travel light and am often seen pulling my roller bag through the concourses of airports.

Writing novels is a job. I consider myself a professional writer.

If you are an author, don't you consider yourself a professional?

(Passenger to Paradise novels by Mary Montague Sikes include: Hearts Across Forever, Eagle Rising, Secrets by the Sea, Night Watch, and Jungle Jeopardy.)

Writers and A Writer's Conference in Las Vegas

2011-07-19T14:32:00.000-07:00

Las Vegas seems an unlikely site for a writer's conference. At least it does to me. As you enter the city, the buildings shimmer with reflective walls and some of them lean with peculiar tilts that make you wonder what you've been drinking. Then, later as you pull your bags through the "lobby" you wonder even more. After all there are slot machines every place you look. There's an area with TVs displaying every horse race in the country, and there are TVs with every baseball game going on at the time. That's in case you want to bet on one of these events. Within the same complex you find more than a dozen movie theaters, a bowling alley, and another theater featuring the Poynter sisters for weekend shows. Las Vegas is truly amazing.

Still, for four straight days last week, members of the Public Safety Writer's Association were able to forget all the glitz and concentrate on some wonderful talks, presentations, and panels. We learned about dialog, editing, promotion, forensic evidence, writing with a partner, changes in publishing, setting, movie writing, police psychology, and much more. And we heard it from the experts. All the while we wandered through the unique sights and sounds that make Las Vegas special.

The writers learned a lot and came away ready to tackle anew the world of often not so glamorous publishing.

Going Full Circle

2011-07-14T00:01:00.000-07:00

Last year, when the Public Safety Writers Conference in Las Vegas opened with a brief history of the organization, I was delighted to hear about its beginning as the Police Writers Association with Roger Fulton serving as the founder. Roger was a member of the Chesapeake Bay Writers Club (in Virginia) at the time. Jane Deringer was his mentor. Roger, Jane, and I were all founding members of the CBW. In fact, Roger came up with the name--Chesapeake Bay Writers--which was selected as the winner of a contest. Jane was also instrumental in the founding of the Police Writers Association. I remember her advising Roger, judging contests, and attending some of the earliest conventions, at least one of which took place in Williamsburg, VA near my home town.

Roger moved away from the area, and I lost track of him. Jane died a few years ago--a tremendous loss to the Tidewater Virginia writing community.

As I attended the excellent conference presentations, I thought about how things have a tendency to come full circle and how pleased my friend and writing teacher extraordinaire, Jane Deringer, would be to see the evolution of PSWA.

Earlier this week, I asked my publisher, Billie Johnson, to take a look at the blog I had written about book promotion. She was pleased with it, and I pointed out that this was another case of things going full circle. This time last year, I knew nothing about writing and promoting blogs. Billie turned me in the direction of Dani Greer and urged me to take her blog book tour class. I did and learned so much from her and from the other members of the class. That was another case of going full circle.

In writing, and in life, it's amazing and rewarding when things go full circle.

One Hot Day in July and Book Promotion

2011-07-11T08:00:00.000-07:00

It's hot today here in Virginia, and I am thinking about book promotion for the fall. My publisher has my new novel Jungle Jeopardy on the fast track for release at a writer's conference in Las Vegas later this week, so I need to get on the fast track for promotion.

What is best--focus on one type of promotion, or do everything?

Unless you're topping the New York Bestseller List week after week, you'd better think about doing everything and more. This is the list I'm making for myself right now:

1. Create or update a media kit.
2. Write press releases for the new book and get them out.
3. Send out a newsletter about the new book.
4. Look for reviewers. (This should be done much earlier but the book wasn't ready.)
5. Plan a launch event.
6. Contact bookstores.
7. Contact college alumni groups. Also, other groups that may relate to the book and its content.
8. Contact libraries about the new release. Do they have book clubs? Do they need speakers for any events?
9. Search for travel organizations and travel groups. Other niche markets. Contact them
10. Set up a schedule for promotion. Set aside time each day for promotion on the Internet.
11. Write a blog. Schedule guests on the blog and become a guest on the blogs of others.
12. Tweet and write on Facebook about the new book, but don't be rude.
13. Make brochures, business cards, and posters for the new book.
14. Follow the marketing plan outline from my publisher, Oak Tree Press.
Much more!

"Jungle Beat" Copyright MM Sikes

One hot day in July has made me think hard about some cool book promotion. I'll keep on working until I have an organized plan, then I'll follow it.

(Take a peek at my painting that will be part of the book cover.)

Are Romance Novels Really to Blame?

2011-07-09T12:03:00.000-07:00

An article by Anita Singh "Mills and Boon 'cause marital breakdown" created a little stir yesterday on one of the writer's lists to which I belong. I was interested that the article said the British Medical Journal had published a warning that these romance books are a cause of adultery and unwanted pregnancies.

Wow! Amazing to know how influential we authors are.

While I haven't read any Mills and Boon romances for quite some time, I was a little surprised to learn all the problems they may be causing. Years ago, the ones I read were simply sweet romances, nice little straightforward stories with happy endings. Those would hardly be books I would believe could lead to problems causing marital breakdowns.

Perhaps the books have changed with the times. Perhaps they are no longer innocent little romances. I don't know, and I don't plan to research the Mills and Boon books. (Looking at the titles, they do sound rather spicy.) However, I do like the idea that we can influence our readers. Only, I want to influence them for the better. I want my books to give them a few hours lost in a fantasy story. Hopefully, readers know it is fantasy and won't, because of what they read, make unfortunate choices they may later regret.

What do you think about blaming romance novels? If they are to blame, there are no more happy endings. That would be sad.

A Fun and Creative Way to Promote a Book

2011-07-05T13:25:00.000-07:00

Recently, I've gotten way behind in scanning the couple hundred e-mails I get each day. When I started looking over and picking out the ones I needed to read, I discovered one from Tammy Kaehler in Murder Must Advertise, a group that I joined a while back. Although I don't know Tammy, I was intrigued by the promotion she is doing for her first novel, Dead Man's Switch, coming out in August. She has two videos, one about her and another about her book. Her reasoning is that since she wants to get speaking engagements, she would like people to see what kind of speaker she will be. The video about her book is a little more along the lines of some of the book trailers I've viewed.

Tammy has been a writer for a number of years, but she never wrote fiction until six years ago. The book she decided to write is about auto racing, so she approached this subject like a good news reporter. She visited tracks and interviewed the race car drivers. She became an expert on the subject of auto racing.

Now, a bookseller in Connecticut is partnering with the race track about which she wrote her novel to have a book launch party for her on July 9. Since Tammy lives all the way across the country in California, this is quite a special event.

I'm fascinated that she became a car-racing expert. I'm impressed that she took plenty of photos and video along the way, so that she had material handy for the videos. This is a fun and creative way to promote her book.

Those of you with books to promote, what unusual things can you do to promote them? Make a list. Even the craziest ideas could have merit. Be creative and have fun!

Signing the End on a Book Manuscript

2011-06-30T13:41:00.000-07:00

Signing the words "the end" on a book manuscript has usually been a magic time for me. After weeks of intense work and dedication, it's fulfilling to accomplish a special goal.

Last Saturday, I typed those words on my latest manuscript, Jungle Jeopardy. I was happy, and I was sad at the same time.

You see, along the way, I fell in love with the characters. I relished the adventure in the jungle. My characters took over the story and wandered off in directions I never imagined when I began writing this book in March. I had a villain at the beginning whom I loved in the end. That was certainly never planned nor was it expected. I even had a jaguar play a major part in the plot.

Imagine that!

It was so much fun that I want to return to the jungles of Central America for more adventures. I want to find my way back into the unexplored Maya ruins. And I want to continue to wonder why I never heard much about the amazing Maya civilization in history classes.

What happens when you complete your manuscript? Are you willing to leave your characters or do you want to keep on going?

Painting and Writing - Sometimes They Conflict

2011-06-24T08:49:00.000-07:00

"Checkered Cloth" MM Sikes

Painting and writing. Sometimes they relate, and sometimes they don't. And sometimes they even conflict with each other.

Next Friday, I'm scheduled to hang a month-long art show of my "Monti Just for Fun" paintings at the Glen Allen Cultural Arts Center in Richmond VA. The show will be displayed on the Slantwall Gallery from July 1 to August 1.

On July 14, during that time, "The Colors of Haiti" will open in the Gumenick Family Gallery at the Center. I love Haitian art and was invited to be a part of the opening reception at the Center from 7 to 9 p.m. on that date. Sadly, I will be unable to participate because of a writing event conflict.

"By the Chair" MM Sikes

The paintings in my show are unusual for me because they are small and painted with very bright colors. Much of the work starts on an orange background which I think relates to much of the Haitian art that I enjoy.

Here is the description from the Cultural Arts Center web site: "This series of light- hearted paintings are a departure from artist Mary Montague Sikes' more intense and powerful art. They explore pattern and design on canvas with a carefree delight and without concern for realism."

"Just for Fun" is just that, but sometimes I long for a return to the serious and the intense. And sometimes I wish there were no conflict between the writing and the painting. Sometimes I wish my writing and my painting would always relate and always fall into separate slots on my calendar.

Conflict is good in novels but not so good in real life.

Art for Science Fiction

2011-06-17T16:24:00.000-07:00

"Jupiter Rising" with Olen in reception room, Womancare

Science fiction images intrigue me. They always have.

Today, I had a chance to revisit a painting I created a few years ago. This acrylic painting on canvas, "Jupiter Rising," is owned by Womancare of Williamsburg. It is part of a series in which I painted planet images in unusual ways, sometimes with forceful waves crashing in front of the fantasy planet.

Because I enjoy this type of imagery so much I often wonder if I should write science fiction or fantasy.

Perhaps not. After all, it is the imagery I love, not the fantasy writing.

What kinds of images do you like? Do you enjoy science fiction or fantasy? Does the imagery you prefer influence your writing in any way?

Sunset Taken from the Air

2011-06-14T13:25:00.000-07:00


"Sunset from the Air" MM Sikes

En route home from an awesome trip, I took yet another sunset photo. We were flying from Los Angeles to Chicago and were about an hour away from our destination when this picture was taken. Digital photography is truly amazing because the smudgy airplane window was partially covered with frosty ice particles.

Years ago, when I took my first photos from the air, they inspired a fascination with air views. Although the quality using 35mm film was not great, I used many of my pictures as working sketches for a series of large acrylic paintings that I called "Air Views." After that, I did another series--this time of mountains as seen from the air.

Do you like to take photos from the air? Have you sometimes been excited with the results? I would love to hear about your photos.

Another Sunset

2011-06-11T09:48:00.000-07:00

Another Sunset in the Sierras - MM Sikes

From what we've heard we were lucky to have wonderful weather while in the High Sierras. The day before we arrived, it was snowing. The week before, it was raining and unpleasant. Since I'm always on the lookout for pretty sunsets, I was happy to find this one.

Sunset in the Sierras

2011-06-08T11:22:00.000-07:00

Sunset in Sierras - MM Sikes

Living in humid Virginia with a very long summer that often begins in April, I was surprised to discover it's still winter in the Sierras. Where we visited is 6300 feet above sea level. Our home is perhaps 14 feet above sea level which creates quite an adjustment as well as a different look to the sunsets.

It's amazing to view sunsets in different parts of our magnificent country. Seeing the mountains in the late afternoon light creates exciting views for the photographer. Comparing views from the North Carolina Blue Ridge Mountains with those in the Sierra Nevada Mountains is intriguing.

How many of you enjoy creating your own study of sunsets in different parts of our country?

Night Watch, a Painting and a Title

2011-06-03T08:34:00.000-07:00

Night Watch by Rembrandt van Rijn is one of the world's most famous paintings. Although I've never liked the dark colors, this intense painting has intrigued me from the moment I first saw it in the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. Apparently, over the years, it has drawn negative as well as positive response resulting in attacks on the painting by people who wanted to inflict major damage to it. One incident, in 1975, resulted in zigzag knife slashes in the canvas which I've read are still evident despite restoration.

Because my novel, Night Watch, features art theft and work by Rembrandt in the story plot, I decided to use the name of the painting for the title of my book. When I checked out the title on Amazon, I found there were other books with the same name which I thought might be a good thing for promotion and visibility of my book.

It wasn't.

There are so many books with that same title that I have to type in my name along with the title to find it. A new release, May 31, 2011 by Suzanne Brockmann, has the title, Night Watch. I have a Google alert for Night Watch, but the information I receive almost never includes my book.

It surprises me that anyone would want to attack a painting created in 1642. It also surprises me that the choice of a popular title for a book can be a big mistake. My advice to other authors is to take care in the words you choose to put on the cover of your next book. The best choice may be a title that is one of a kind, if that's at all possible.

The Weather Touches Us All

2011-05-28T13:46:00.000-07:00

"What Kind of Weather?" MM Sikes

When I looked out from the deck of our condo located near the top of Sugar Mountain in North Carolina, I was awed by the scene at sunset. This was Tuesday evening following the horrific tornado that struck Joplin, MO Sunday evening. The weather pattern passing over us was part of that storm system. How beautiful the light and clouds appeared in the western North Carolina skies. Although it was windy and there were weather warnings, the storm clouds brought only heavy rains. At one point, we drove through a downpour of large hail. We were a little surprised the noisy nuggets of ice did no damage to the surface of our vehicle.

Although the weather touches all of us, we have no control over where 200 mile tornado winds will strike. When a tornado hit the Lambert International Airport in St. Louis last month, it swept through the terminal building with full force but did no damage to cars in the lot where our daughter's vehicle was parked. The St. Louis Cardinals baseball game was played at the same time that night.

The sweeping clouds in the late evening light were like a piece of art to us. How savage and ugly they were earlier.

We are little people on a large planet moving through space. We have no control.

What About the Mentalist?

2011-05-22T10:53:00.000-07:00

I've been a fan of the Mentalist for a couple of years now. Last week, I stumbled upon the season finale by accident and was caught completely by surprise with what happened.

Patrick Jane has been a pretty off-beat character from the beginning. He tends to say strange things to people but usually what he says turns out to be an insightful device to get at the truth. However, meeting the infamous Red John in the middle of a shopping mall and then shooting him in cold blood was shocking to me. This terrifying killer has been the subject of Jane's search since the first episode. Red John deserved what he got, but is Patrick the kind of person to shoot a man in cold blood, then sit down near the body and finish a cup of tea? I didn't think so.

What will happen to Patrick next season? Will we have a season filled with a long, drawn-out murder trial? I hope not. What have the writers accomplished?

What did you think about the season finale of the Mentalist.

Getting Lost in the Setting

2011-05-20T11:46:00.000-07:00

When you're writing a book, do you ever get lost in the setting you've created? I do.

Right now, I'm writing an adventure novel, Jungle Jeopardy, that's set in the jungles of Central America. I have a wonderful National Geographic map of Mexico and Central America spread out across a third of my desk. As I write about my characters' experiences in lost Maya ruins, I am captivated by the subject. When I leave to proceed with my own daily life, I think about my characters as though they were real living people.

Sometimes for past books, I've made a big chart and stuck post-it notes all over it as things happen. That can be pretty helpful when you want to check on the timing for some event. For this book, I have a little black spiral notebook that's 4 x 6 inches in size. So far, I've almost completely filled it with research notes about the Maya, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras, and Guatemala. It's amazing what you can find on the Internet, even including the sounds certain animals make.

Since Jungle Jeopardy is a sequel to Secrets by the Sea, I keep a copy of that novel close at hand as well. I also make little notes on sheets of paper scattered about my desk on both sides of the computer. And there are photographs torn from magazines from some of the destinations in my setting.

Getting lost in the setting is a lot of fun. Now, I can hardly wait to see how it all turns out because my characters have taken over. I truly won't know how this book ends until almost the last page. It definitely will not end the way I originally planned.

I'd love to know what happens when you're writing a book. Do you ever get lost in your setting?

Reincarnation Conventions and More

2011-05-16T00:01:00.000-07:00

"Road Once Traveled" MM Sikes

Reincarnation conventions have become popular in our country, according to a segment on CBS Sunday morning. Dr. Brian Weiss, a specialist in hypnotic regression, was one of the speakers at a recent convention in New York. I have read about Dr. Weiss and learned that he was skeptical about reincarnation when he regressed one of his patients who instead of going back to an earlier age went back to a previous lifetime. He is said to have lost his skepticism when the patient began channeling about the space between lives.

According to the CBS segment, 18% of Americans believe in reincarnation. Those who believe in reincarnation think we are spiritual beings having a human experience. The theory dates back nearly 4000 years.

Dr. Jim Tucker at the University of Virginia doesn't trust past-life regression. He believes the results of that therapy are unreliable. However, his research at the university is on reincarnation and focuses on children. Many of the children he has interviewed remember past lives that ended violently. These children often have scars or birth defects featuring an injury from the prior life they recall. Photographs of these children's scars were part of the program.

Some of the research I studied for my novel, Hearts Across Forever, was done by the late Dr. Ian Stevenson at the University of Virginia.

Writer's Conferences, Artist's Workshops

2011-05-14T08:04:00.000-07:00

This is the time of year when I begin thinking about attending both writer's conferences and artist's workshops. Actually, I'm really thinking about what I will take and what I'll wear because I've chosen and paid for my workshops well ahead of time.

After I first joined Romance Writers of America, I attended the annual conference every year. I loved visiting new places that often were the sites for the conferences. Seattle was one of the most interesting destinations, and prior to the conference my husband and I took the ferryboat over to Victoria, British Columbia. We visited San Francisco for another conference and also attended one in Anaheim, California. We went to St. Louis during one of the flood years in downtown which added a bit of adventure to the richness of the experience. In New York, a travel writing editor took me to lunch at the Waldorf Astoria which created a wonderful memory.

The RWA conferences always provided for me an amazing array of workshops about every aspect of writing. I learned so much during those years of attending conferences, and I got to meet and talk with many of the stars and the rising stars of the industry.

More recently, I've attended the Public Safety Writers Conference in Las Vegas--not because I'm a public safety writer but because my publisher and many of her authors attend that conference. We are part of the panels, and it's fun to visit with and get to know other authors in our group.

My artist's workshops are yet another story I'll share another time. What conferences do you attend? What have you found most helpful?

The Pursuit of Happiness

2011-05-09T00:01:00.000-07:00

"Daffodils" 3-panel glass MM Sikes

"Happiness is a journey, not a destination." That topic was the subject of the CBS Sunday show yesterday.

The program began with a brief discussion of Jim Axelrod's new book on the pursuit of happiness. The book is due for release on May 10.

Unfortunately, I was left uncertain whether the rest of the segment was information from his book or from other sources. According to the program, Boulder, Colorado is the happiest community in our country. People in that city have the highest feeling of well-being. Obesity there and smoking are found in only 13% of the population. Good health means happiness is high and stress is low.

Hawaii is the happiest state. The top 10 in happy states include mostly states in the northwest including South Dakota. No southern states are included in the top 10.

Huntington, West Virginia was at the bottom of happiness for cities. A struggling economy, unemployment, aging population, and poor health were cited as the major reasons for unhappiness there.

Getting enough sleep and getting exercise are two happiness factors, according to the Sunday program. Being happier starts with taking the first small step in the right direction.

Happiness for me is often found in the color yellow. I feel happier wearing yellow clothing. Yellow flowers attract me. What can be nicer than the beautiful yellow forsythia that heralds the coming of spring?

What makes you happy?

Google Changes Everything for a Novelist

2011-05-05T14:25:00.000-07:00

Parking Lot at Sunset - MMSikes

How quickly things change. An ordinary parking lot turns into magic at sunset. And a novel you think is going one way suddenly takes a U-turn in the opposite direction. That change in my novel happened because of Google.

When I first started writing books, as the Passenger to Paradise, I spent a lot of time at the local library using various reference materials to enhance what I already knew about the destination I was visiting. For my first novel, Hearts Across Forever, set in Jamaica, I not only researched that island nation, but I learned more about subjects such as hypnotic regression and reincarnation because my characters were involved in both.

For my current project, Jungle Jeopardy, I planned to have my characters get involved in a kidnapping and much more in Costa Rica. But then Google and my characters took over. I remembered my own adventures in the Maya ruins and started reading and Googling the ruins of Central America. What I've learned has been compelling, and my characters are out of control having a wild adventure in the jungles of Guatemala. While in the past the Passenger to Paradise has always written from personal experience, now I've discovered a journey so dangerous only Google can handle it for me.

Because so much is available at the touch of a key, Google changes everything for the novelist. Have you changed the way you research and write. Do you still spend hours at the library researching? Or do you have your own system.

Tennis and Writing

2011-05-02T00:01:00.000-07:00

March 2011

The A to Z Blog Challenge is over. I learned so much and met so many wonderful bloggers during the month of April. I hope I'll be able to keep up with posting often, maybe not everyday, but often.

Since I have a book deadline that means I need to write seven pages or more each day, so I'll keep busy. Besides writing, teaching, and creating art, I need to give some time each week to another addiction--playing tennis. Exercise is a good thing, especially for writers who spend so much time sitting! My times for exercise are set ahead of time into my weekly schedule, and I do my best not to change or cancel those activities.

What cuts into your writing time?

Thanks again to everyone who made the Blog Challenge possible. And a special thanks to Alex Cavanaugh who encouraged so many to participate!

Thanks also to all my followers. It was exciting to go over 100 last week!

"Z" Is For Zorachs, Unforgettable Artists from Maine

2011-04-30T00:01:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe that an entire month has passed, and the A to Z Blog Challenge is at the final letter "Z" which at first seemed difficult for the Passenger to Paradise. But it wasn't difficult after all because I remembered the famous American Modernists, Marguerite and William Zorach, and their home on Georgetown Island in Maine.

When our daughter attended a summer program for gifted young writers, she met and became friends with one of the Zorach great-grandchildren. We later took her to Maine to visit her new friend and had the unique opportunity to see where Marguerite painted and where William created his pieces of sculpture. Original art was on view all over the grounds and in the home of their son and daughter-in-law, Tessim and Peggy Zorach. We got to see the wall murals, created by Marguerite, as well.

As an artist, I especially appreciated the opportunity to see original works by artists I had studied in college. Over the years after that, I corresponded with Peggy and enjoyed the opportunity to get to know her. Seeing the Zorach art gave me a new appreciation for Maine and for the contributions of the Zorach family there.

Thanks to all of you who made the A to Z Blog Challenge possible. Although I was able to visit only a few blogs each day, I plan to keep the list and continue my visits. Thanks to all of my new blog followers. I was delighted to almost double the number and cross over the 100 followers milestone.

"Y" Is For Yellowstone

2011-04-29T00:01:00.000-07:00

"Falls" MM Sikes

A two-week stay in Yellowstone National Park may be the highlight of travels for the Passenger to Paradise. Four years ago, one of our daughters planned a special family trip to Yellowstone, and it was unforgettable. We discovered a photo op in every direction no matter where we were in the park.

Along the way we found that buffalo actually roam free and block the roadways as everyone stops, gets out of their vehicles, and takes pictures of the big lumbering animals. We learned that might not be a good idea because of the danger of being trampled or gored by one of the wild creatures.

Old Faithful MM Sikes

We spent part of our time at the Lake Yellowstone Hotel, a beautiful and delightful place with its own resident artist displaying work painted on site. We also stayed at the Old Faithful Inn with a view from our window of Old Faithful geyser which actually erupts every 90 minutes or so.

Among the highlights of our trip were the cowboy trail ride with a BBQ dinner that featured unlimited steaks. We enjoyed the Yellowstone Grand Canyon and Mammouth Hot Springs.

"A Mudpot" MM Sikes

Touring the amazing mudpots was yet another unforgettable experience.

I would love to return to Yellowstone, but for now I'll just enjoy looking at some of the many photographs I took on this fantastic journey.

"Y" has to be for Yellowstone.

"X" Is For the Temple of Xtoloc at Chichen Itza

2011-04-28T00:01:00.000-07:00

"Pathway to the Ruins" MM Sikes

For the past few weeks, as the Passenger to Paradise, I've been researching the Maya ruins in Central America. During that investigation, I came across the Temple of Xtoloc. The remains of this small temple are located on the edge of the famous cenote at Chichen Itza known an the Well of Sacrifice.

According to my research, this cenote is quite large, covering a surface of about one acre. The well was used for perhaps as long a period as 500 years and contained not only treasures but also the skeletons of people of many different ages, including children, who were sacrificed in rituals. This information came from A Guide to Ancient Maya Ruins by C. Bruce Hunter which shows a photograph of the well with the temple in the background. From the Internet, I found a description saying that there are actually two cenotes at Chichen Itza and that the one the temple is on is not the sacrificial one but may have served as the source of fresh water supply for the people.

Chichen Itza is a Maya ruins site we visited a few years ago. The well was one of the locations on our tour. I later created a large series of paintings from photographs taken of the many excavated buildings. The painting on the right is one of the series. I made a very large painting of the Well of Sacrifice but not of the Temple of Xtoloc.

Jungle Jeopardy, my WIP set in the jungles of Central America, includes exploration of some of the Maya ruins. Copan in Honduras, where many of the most intriguing ruins are found, may have been settled as long ago as 2000 BC. Stela B, a large stone carving found at Copan, contains images some people believe are elephants. Sad we know so little of the true history of this part of our world.

Have you visited any of the Maya ruins? If so, what was your reaction?

"W" Is For Williamsburg, Virginia - Land That I Love

2011-04-27T00:01:00.000-07:00

"Williamsburg Inn" painting by MMSikes

Williamsburg, Virginia is the community of my heart. For many years, it has been a central location in my life. As an art student at the College of William and Mary, I commuted to the school at least three times a week, studying painting, sculpture, printmaking, and ceramics. I've exhibited art in exhibitions and in galleries in Williamsburg. As a correspondent for the Newport News Daily Press, I covered Williamsburg and wrote feature articles for several years. Now I play tennis there three times a week.

"The Historic Area--stretching from the College of William and Mary at one end of Duke of Gloucester Street to the Capitol building at the other--attracts droves of admiring visitors from all over the world. Nearby, at the edge of the restored area, the Williamsburg Inn offers gracious accommodations, graceful decor, and delightful gourmet dining."

That's what I wrote as part of my entry in Hotels to Remember featuring the historic inn. My painting on the left is actually of the back of the inn as seen from the golf course. I love this side of the inn because it seems more like old Williamsburg to me.

We are fortunate that in 1926, John D. Rockefeller, Jr. decided to support the project to restore the historic area to eighteenth-century glory. Now every year thousands of people flock to the community to tour the colonial buildings and absorb the history. Those who retire here often serve as guides for the tours or become interpreters.

As the Passenger to Paradise, I cannot think of a better destination for travelers. Have you ever visited Williamsburg? If not, it's a worthy place to add to your travel list.

"V" Is For Vienna, Austria

2011-04-26T00:01:00.000-07:00

Right before my senior year in college, I spent a summer working on building a kindergarten for a church in Linz, Austria. During that summer we took a side trip to the city of Vienna (Wien). As soon as I saw the ornate building facades, the church spires, and the art I felt at home. The streets seemed familiar to me as well. This was my first experience with deja vu.

Years later, when I returned to Vienna, I had a similar sense of great familiarity with the old city that I was visiting with two of my daughters. While one of them flew an airplane between Vienna and Istanbul, Turkey and the other recovered from a cold, I explored the streets alone. Although I was by myself, I felt comfortable and secure. From that experience, my interest in reincarnation grew, and I eventually used that interest as I developed the plot of Hearts Across Forever.

For me, "V" must be for Vienna, Austria. Perhaps the spark of the wanderlust for the Passenger to Paradise was born there.

What do you think about deja vu? Ever had any experiences with it?

"U" Is For Union Station St. Louis

2011-04-25T00:01:00.000-07:00

St. Louis Union Station MM Sikes painting

As the Passenger to Paradise, I enjoy viewing the beautiful St. Louis Union Station among the photographs shown prior to the Cardinals' baseball games on satellite television. This picturesque structure that first opened in 1894 is also the subject of one of my paintings included in Hotels to Remember. Of course, it was my choice for "U" in the final week of A to Z blog challenge.

As I was completing my coffee table book, I was amazed to discover a complex with a similar appearance in the south of France. We were visiting the medieval walled city of Carcassonne and were fascinated by the relationship in design between it and the architecture of Union Station. On our return home I learned that Carcassonne, a fortified town that has stood in some form for 20 centuries, was indeed the basis for the Union Station design. At that point, I decided to use two of my Carcassonne photographs in my book.

Because Hotels to Remember is a "snapshot in time," it is not surprising that when my book was published the hotel that occupied Union Station was a Hyatt Regency. Today that hotel is a Marriott.

Change is certain. Nothing else is. We only have snapshots in time!

"T" Is For Thomas Jefferson, A Hero in Virginia and America

2011-04-23T00:01:00.000-07:00

Jefferson statue, Jefferson Hotel - MMSikes

In considering my post for the letter "T", I thought of a lot of possibilities. As the Passenger to Paradise, I've gotten quite involved with "T" words researching the Maya Ruins at Tulum and Tikal for my WIP set in the jungles of Central America. But I kept coming back to the man who meant so much to both Virginia and American history.

Thomas Jefferson attended one of my alma maters, the College of William and Mary. He was the founder of the University of Virginia, and he designed and built historic Monticello. He drafted the Declaration of Independence, served as the nation's third president--the list goes on and on. One of the most interesting facts in Jefferson's life was the date of his death, July 4, 1826. Jefferson and John Adams, second president of the United States, both died on that date. Both were deeply involved in creation of the Declaration of Independence and were signers. They died on the nation's 50th birthday. How ironic!

"S" Is For Sedona

2011-04-22T00:01:00.000-07:00

"Stormy Rocks" MM Sikes

The Passenger to Paradise has found that exotic destinations inspire the creative spirit. As a child I dreamed of travel to far away places, and I read everything I could find with picturesque settings. As an adult I still crave the discovery of magic destinations and am delighted when I find the unforgettable like the amazing Red Rock Country of Sedona, Arizona.

In the early 1990s we made our first trip to Sedona. It was amazing to drive through the awesome scenery I had viewed only in movies as a child. With my 35 mm Minolta dangling from my neck, I trudged over dusty trails searching for medicine wheels along the way. Then, I viewed with reverence those that I found, and I watched, entranced, as a few fellow wanderers chanted softly into the quiet calm of vortex sites.

The rock formations such as Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock, Courthouse Rock and other fascinating views rose high against a clear blue sky, and we took amazing photographs that I used later to create paintings. Just being in the midst of the vortexes and on the sacred land was a spiritual experience. Although we did not see the flying saucers others have claimed to view over Bell Rock, the sight of that magic formation did inspire a fantasy print I created of saucer images above a rocky landscape. It also inspired my novel, Eagle Rising.

In addition to the "S" for Sedona, I have to claim also the "S" for my novel, Secrets by the Sea. Characters in that book have been revived and are part the book I'm now writing--Jungle Jeopardy. It's fun to be caught up in all sorts of discoveries related to the ancient Maya as I travel with my characters through the jungles of Central America.

"R" Is For Rose Hall Great House

2011-04-21T00:01:00.000-07:00

"Rose Hall" pastel by MM Sikes

"An odd misty haze hung over the porch, obscuring some of it from her view. The filmy fog held particles of smoke-like dust that glittered in the diminished light. Stranger yet, the sun had shifted in the sky to signal the onset of early evening twilight.

"The large porch exuded elegant splendor, as the fog around it dissipated. Lavish floral arrangements proclaimed opulence and wealth, and lighted candles in the center of each table projected wispy shadows all around..."

This is from my novel, Hearts Across Forever, when Kathryn visits Rose Hall Great House and suddenly finds herself shifting in time and viewing a scene from another lifetime in Jamaica.

When I first saw Rose Hall Great House, I was captivated by the charm of the beautiful old mansion and I was intrigued by the tale of the "white witch" who murdered her husbands and intimidated all those around her. I had to connect that story in a book. Thus Hearts Across Forever was born.

If you go to Jamaica, don't miss a side trip to Rose Hall Great House. You won't soon forget your visit. Thank you A to Z blog for bringing back my memories.

"Q" Is For Quebec

2011-04-20T00:01:00.000-07:00

"Chateau Frontenac" MM Sikes

Several years ago, we spent a marvelous vacation in Quebec. Everything about that trip was different and memorable. Because the Passenger to Paradise is intrigued by old hotels, we had to make a side trip to the Chateau Frontenac, a hotel I'd heard about over the years.

According to history the location of Chateau Frontenac was discovered long before the 1892 first construction of the hotel that now stands high on a hill overlooking the city of Quebec. Samuel de Champlain built the first Fort of Quebec on the site in 1620 and so began a long and storied history of what has become a beautiful luxury hotel.

Another famous landmark, the Basilica of Sainte Anne de Beaupre lies 19 miles from Quebec City. The first church was built on this site in 1658. Although I am not Catholic, I was especially drawn to this cathedral that attracts a million and a half or more visitors and pilgrims each year. In fact, an angel prosperity metal, a souvenir of that trip, sits at the base of my computer screen to inspire me.

Inspirational trips, unforgettable journeys--what trips do you remember most? If another Hotels to Remember book ever comes about, Chateau Frontenac and the related side trips will be a part of it.

"P" Is For Paris

2011-04-19T00:01:00.000-07:00

As the Passenger to Paradise, I have to have a little of the bohemian artist in me. That's why I love Paris. The last time we visited the city, we took a bus in from the airport and got off at the Opera stop. From there we pulled our roller bags (Passenger to Paradise style) for several blocks along the streets to Hotel Opera Cadet. This is a lovely little hotel located a short distance below Montmartre, a destination filled with art lore and history.

The art museums and galleries may be what I love most about the city. Sadly because of a strike La Louvre was closed most of the time we were in Paris. But the art galleries were open, and it was wonderful to visit them. We also enjoyed strolling along the River Seine and using the train system which became another problem later due to the strike.

Paris is truly the "City of Light." I look forward to another visit and the inspiration it will bring.

"O" Is For Oahu

2011-04-18T00:01:00.000-07:00

Moana Surfrider MM Sikes

As the Passenger to Paradise, it is difficult for me to leave the Hawaiian Islands, so "O" must stand for Oahu as a fabulous destination in my journey through the alphabet. When we first arrived in Honolulu on Oahu, I was terribly disappointed because where we were booked to stay for a week overlooked the top of a Jack-in-the-Box. Although I have nothing against this fast food chain, it was certainly not the image I had for Hawaii. However, after contacting RCI they were able to relocate us on the top floor of a high rise with a view of the ocean.

Because the famous Waikiki Beach was overloaded with tourists, I was again disappointed. However, the Moana Surfrider, built in 1901, and the Royal Hawaiian, constructed in 1927, and both located on Wakiki made the trip to Oahu worthwhile. We spent several days in the Royal Hawaiian, affectionately called the "Pink Lady". I created paintings of both the Moana Surfrider and the Pink Lady and plan to include them in More Hotels to Remember which has not yet been published and would be a coffee table book with hotels I wanted to have in Hotels to Remember but did not have room.

"Pink Lady" MM Sikes

The Polynesian Cultural Center provided an outstanding side trip for us, and on another visit to Oahu we went out to see the USS Arizona Memorial on December 7. Oahu is a great beginning point for a visit to the Hawaiian Islands. Thank you A to Z Blog Challenge for the chance to remember.

"N" Is For Night Watch Set in Trinidad

2011-04-16T00:01:00.000-07:00

"Pounding Waters" MMSikes

As the Passenger to Paradise, I discovered Trinidad and Tobago a couple of decades ago. Trinidad, an exotic island with ancient caves that once served as hiding places for Caribbean pirates, became the setting for my last book, Night Watch. There was so much to remember about my journey to Trinidad that I had to use our adventures in my writing somehow.

Our arrival in Trinidad was unlike anything I'd experienced before. We were met by two unlikely resort escorts who took us in an old car down a dark, remote road all the while using walkie-talkies to communicate with their base on an off-shore island. The two of us then traveled in a small leaky row-boat equipped with an engine and a flash light over rough ocean waters to reach the island resort.

Much of what happened is woven into the plot of Night Watch which is available in paperback, Kindle e-book, and Nook Book from Amazon and Barnes and Noble. It was truly an exciting time, but we've never gone back to Trinidad. I wonder what it's like now.

"M" Is For Maui

2011-04-15T00:01:00.000-07:00

"Hawaii" - MM Sikes

You must know by now how much the Passenger to Paradise adores the Hawaiian islands, so "M" has to stand for Maui. And the most memorable adventure for me on that spectacular island was the journey on the Road to Hana.

We took the long scenic drive from Kapalua to Hana without suspecting until we were well along the way how dangerous this little trail actually was. When we began to see white crosses, it was already too late to turn back. I'm not sure that was even possible because the road was so narrow we wondered how any car traveling from the other direction would be able to pass us.

From seascapes to waterfalls to volcanic ash, Maui has it all. We enjoyed the visit to Hana but decided to return a different way and visit the volcano.

Lahaina, full of upscale art galleries, was a special treat for me. And for golf fans, there are 14 courses from which to choose.

What's your favorite Hawaiian island? Do you want to go back? The Passenger to Paradise longs to return and see more of the islands.

"L" Is For Los Cabos

2011-04-14T00:01:00.000-07:00

"Los Cabos" Photo by MM Sikes

As the Passenger to Paradise, I have discovered some of the most amazing scenery in the world. However, none of it surpasses the beauty I found while visiting Los Cabos on the Pacific coast of Mexico. After taking this photograph, I was surprised to also discover the angelic formation in the sky which only added to the magic of our adventure.

"By the Beach" MM Sikes

The beaches at Los Cabos have the whitest and, when we were there, hottest sands of any place I've visited. Still, wearing tennis shoes or sandals, walks along the beaches are glorious and unforgettable. And who would ever forget the glowing blossoms coloring the edge of this Pacific coast beach?

So for the A to Z Challege, "L" is for Los Cabos. It is the only destination choice the Passenger to Paradise considered making.

"K" Is For Kauai

2011-04-13T00:01:00.000-07:00

"Bali Hai" MM Sikes

"K" is for Kauai, the favorite Hawaiian Island for the Passenger to Paradise. Of course, it's my duty to love to travel. The first time I saw Kauai, my experience was magical. From the Princeville Hotel with its impressive golf course, I saw the glorious mountain formation known as Bali Hai that was made famous in the musical production South Pacific.

Kauai is truly a fantasy place. Not only does it have its own Grand Canyon, but the Na Pali can only be reached by boat. There are some trails, and we started up one but found it pretty rugged. It was shocking to discover a Grand Canyon almost as awe-inspiring as the one in Arizona.

If you want photo ops in every direction, make your destination Kauai.Thanks A to Z Blog Challenge for a chance to showcase the destinations I love as the Passenger to Paradise.

"J" Is For Jupiter

2011-04-12T00:01:00.000-07:00

Albert Pujols bats in Jupiter

"J" is for Jupiter, not the planet but the beautiful little community in Florida that comes alive each spring when two big league teams descend on the town to begin practice for the coming baseball season. The St. Louis Cardinals and the Florida Marlins are the teams that share Roger Dean Stadium.

For baseball fans, this should be the most exciting time of year. So much hope lies with the teams. The potential is there among enthusiastic players who may or may not make the final cut. Fans are close to the players. They can talk, get autographs, and take hundreds of photos as they wander from one practice field to another.

The Passenger to Paradise looks forward to her journey to Jupiter each spring to see the St. Louis Cardinals. There's no time better than spring training when hope reigns supreme!

Meet Marilyn Meredith, Guest Blogger and Author of Angel Lost

2011-04-11T00:01:00.000-07:00

Today, Marilyn Meredith is my guest on Notes Along the Way. Since meeting Marilyn as a fellow author at Oak Tree Press, I have been impressed with her knowledge of the publishing industry and also by her willingness to help other authors. Despite her busy family life, writing several new books every year, keeping up her Web site and blogging, she always has time to plan conferences and answer questions. Marilyn even attends several conferences each year where she is a speaker and/or panel member. I am delighted to know this amazing woman and to have her as my guest to tell about her latest book, Angel Lost.

Where the Angel Inspiration Came From for Angel Lost

That was the question Monti asked me to address for my visit here to her blog. She probably wonders what place an angel has in a crime novel.

One night while I was driving home from my writers’ critique group, I spotted a large

crowd gathered around a store that I knew sold floor coverings. It was dark out, yet, people jostled for a space around the plate glass window. Some of the folks held up cell phones and cameras taking pictures. Two police cars with their emergency lights on were parked in the middle of the street and the officer leaned against their cars. Vehicles filled the adjacent lot, and more were turning in.

I couldn’t tell what was going on and didn’t find out until I read the morning paper. An angel had made an appearance in the store’s window. People came to view the angel every night and the crowds grew bigger and bigger. No, I never got to see the angel myself. Ultimately, it turned out to be a reflection from the street lights on the window—or so that was the decision. Maybe it was, but maybe it was a miracle put there to make people draw closer to God. Certainly the people who actually saw the angel felt that there was a spiritual reason behind the angel’s appearance.

I knew that I would one day use a similar manifestation of an angel in a book—and of course that’s what happens in Angel Lost. There is a double meaning for the title, but you’ll have to read the book to find out what that is.

Frankly, I think we tend to brush off these miraculous sightings instead of embracing them as a gift from God.

F. M. Meredith, author of Angel Lost, who is also known as Marilyn.

Bio: F.M. Meredith, also known as Marilyn Meredith, is the author of nearly thirty published novels. Her latest in the Rocky Bluff P.D. crime series, from Oak Tree Press, is Angel Lost. Marilyn is a member of EPIC, Four chapters of Sisters in Crime, including the Internet chapter , Mystery Writers of America, and on the board of the Public Safety Writers of America. Visit her at http://fictionforyou.com and her blog at http://marilymeredith.blogspot.com

Here a Blurb about Angel Lost - As plans for her perfect wedding fill her mind, Officer Stacey Wilbur is sent out to trap a flasher, the new hire realizes Rocky Bluff P.D. is not the answer to his problems, Abel Navarro’s can’t concentrate on the job because of worry about his mother, Officer Gordon Butler has his usual upsets, the sudden appearance of an angel in the window of a furniture store captures everyone’s imagination and causes problems for RBPD, and then the worst possible happens—will Stacey and Doug’s wedding take place?

Thanks for visiting, Marilyn!

My A to Z Blog Challenge post for "I" follows:

"I" is for islands especially the tropical islands of the Caribbean which have fascinated the Passenger to Paradise since my first visit to Jamaica in 1980. The light, the sweet fragrances of sand, sea, and flowers all intrigued me. Visits followed to St. Thomas, St. Johns, St. Croix, St. Martin, Antigua, St. Barts, Anguilla, Barbados, Guadeloupe, Trinidad, Curacao, the Bahamas, Hawaiian Islands, Key West, and many other beautiful tropical islands. We have never been on a cruise, so all of our visits have been stays on the islands.

Not only have I written about these fantastic destinations in travel articles and books, but I have painted them as well. During our travels, a camera has never been far away. I have thousands of 35mm color slides stored in my art studio which I've used as resort materials for hundreds of drawings and paintings. Sadly 35mm slides are a thing of the past, but I love the convenience and quickness of my digital camera.

Do you love the islands as well? Do you have your own special island or retreat?

"H" is for Huatulco, Exotic on Mexico's West Coast

2011-04-09T00:01:00.000-07:00

For the Passenger to Paradise, Hualtulco became a dream destination. It's been more than 20 years since I visited this resort location, but vivid memories remain etched in my mind. The light was clear and crisp. From our bed we could view the dark starry night sky and watch star formations I'd never before seen.

Huatulco is actually a scenic nine-bay area located well below Acapulco on the Pacific coast of Mexico. We spent a week there at a Club Med that later closed. Some of our most memorable experiences came from side trips taken by air and by bus. A two-hour bus trip took us to the quaint fishing village of Puerto Escondido which was wonderful for shopping and local color. The more important side trip was to the Mayan ruins at Palenque which was reached by flight on a six-passenger Cessna 414.

What travels have left the most vivid memories for you? What places would you like to revisit? I'm happy the A to Z Blog Challenge has given me the chance to recall so many travel memories!

"G" Is for Guadeloupe

2011-04-08T00:01:00.000-07:00

Guadeloupe is a Caribbean island with which I have a love/hate relationship.The Passenger to Paradise has spent two long vacations on this scenic destination and has a lot to write about both these trips. One of the most memorable events occurred when a thief entered our resort bedroom in the middle of the night and made off with all our valuables including our passports. Imagine being in a French-speaking country without your passports and with no money.

Another traumatic experience there occurred when my husband blew out his knee playing tennis. After that, he spent almost all of our two-week vacation hobbling around on crutches.

Although the scenery is lovely, like that of the others islands we've visited, I don't plan to make another trip to Guadeloupe. After all something even more traumatic might happen the next time around.

Have you had a vacation trip you'd rather forget?

"F" - La Fonda - Another Old Hotel

2011-04-07T00:01:00.000-07:00

Along the lines of famous and fabulous old hotels, La Fonda in Santa Fe, New Mexico is a memorable choice. For me, Santa Fe is a special place to visit. I went there to see the art in the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum and I found the La Fonda as well.

In 1610, the year Santa Fe was founded, an inn (fonda) was already located there. A fonda has been on that site near the Plaza ever since. The current La Fonda was built in 1923 on the original site and in 1926, the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railroad which had acquired the property leased it to the famous Fred Harvey Company. It became a prized location for the "Harvey Girls" until 1969. The hotel is worth a visit if only to see some of the art housed there.

The historic old hotel and my original painting of it became part of my Hotels to Remember coffee table book. The Georgia O'Keeffe Museum not far away is also worth a visit. La Fonda was destined to be part of the A to Z Blogfest!

"E" -- The El Tovar, On the Edge of Wonder

2011-04-06T00:01:00.000-07:00

Years ago, my husband and I took a cross-country trip from Virginia to California, and one of the stops along the way was the Grand Canyon where we stayed at the El Tovar. More trips followed for the Passenger to Paradise who never stopped being amazed by this rustic old hotel that opened in 1905 and sits right on the edge of the Grand Canyon. Sunsets viewed from the dining room of the El Tovar are dramatic and unforgettable.

I have visited the Grand Canyon and the El Tovar other times over the years and have taken many photographs, some of which I used to create working drawings for large acrylic paintings. The El Tovar became one of the 20 hotels in my coffee table book, Hotels to Remember.

A few years ago, a newspaper that carried an article I wrote about the El Tovar used the headline--"On the Edge of Wonder." I loved that headline which is so appropriate for this unique destination. Everyone should visit the Canyon one time and walk through the hotel to the dining room where magnificent windows reveal an unforgettable light display across multiple canyon facades..

"D" - Dunn's River Falls in Jamaica

2011-04-05T00:01:00.000-07:00


"Budding Falls" MM Sikes

Dunn's River Falls in Jamaica is another destination that the Passenger to Paradise loves. The first time we visited Jamaica, we took a side trip to the falls. I took dozens of photographs from the walkway and steps that border it. Then I developed a series of paintings from the photographs. I also wrote several travel articles later published in newspapers and magazines. Two of the paintings are 4 by 6 feet. One of those was purchased by the Marriott Hotel in Richmond; the other hangs in our bedroom. "Budding Falls" is smaller, about 42 by 54 inches, and from the same painting series.

We have visited the falls on subsequent trips to Jamaica and have been disappointed to see the commercialization growing all around. This is a unforgettable place of amazing natural beauty. It is a destination worthy of more than one visit.

"C" - Cozumel, the island of the Swallows

2011-04-03T00:01:00.000-07:00

Cozumel (Mayan for island of the Swallows) is a favorite destination for the Passenger to Paradise and provides interesting and wonderful memories of crystal clear waters and a time of adventure. On our first trip there we visited Mayan ruins on the island and took a small plane to Chichen Itza to tour those Mayan ruins. I took lots of photographs at that site and later created a series of large acrylic paintings based on our visit there.

One of my most vivid memories from the trip came soon after we boarded the airplane in Cancun to fly over to Cozumel. Although people was still standing in the aisle and there were not enough seats for everyone, the airplane started to taxi for take-off. That was when I realized that safety is not important everywhere, especially in Mexico.

I have long had a fascination with silver jewelry created by Mexican jewelrymakers. During our week on the island, I found a cute little shop and purchased several silver bracelets and a necklace for gifts and souvenirs.

Cozumel is a destination the Passenger to Paradise would like to visit again.

"B" - Butterfly Conservatory in Key West

2011-04-02T00:01:00.000-07:00

Beware of hitchhikers

As the Passenger to Paradise, I travel whenever possible to gather ideas for my books. One of my favorite trips was one last summer to the Butterfly Conservatory in Key West, Florida.

I know there are lots of butterfly conservatories around. On many occasions I've passed signs for one in St. Martin, but this is the first one I've actually visited.

Not only did I get some wonderful photo ops for the beautiful and colorful butterflies, but the conservatory was filled with exotic birds and amazing tropical flora as well. Near the end of the day, most of the visitors left, and I enjoyed the opportunity to sit on a butterfly metal bench and meditate with the sounds of falling water in spectacular tropical surroundings.

So my travel "B" is for the Key West Butterfly Conservatory. Wonder what "C" will be?

"A" What Do You Remember from Your High School Days?

2011-04-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

The Blog Challenge got me to thinking about posts to go with the letters. No one could be more surprised than I was when the first thought I got for the letter "A" was the title of a play I was in years ago when I was a sophomore in high school. The play was Now That April's Here. Although I don't recall any lines from the play, the significant point for me was that I had the role of Mrs. Harris and my husband (now) had the role of Mr. Harris.

Even then I enjoyed the excitement of drama and the thrill of opening night. Now that excitement has been replaced by the unforgettable experience of the release of a new book.

What unique or special memory do you have from your high school days?

As the "Passenger to Paradise" for the remainder of the A to Z Blog Challenge posts I plan to select travel destinations I've visited and loved or places I've dreamed of visiting. My blogs will tell you where and why.

Monti

How Important Are Women in History?

2011-03-28T07:26:00.000-07:00

Roundtable Discussion Participants

How important are women in history? The recognition of their importance is not as great as we would expect.

The panel I was part of last Saturday expressed concern that March Women's History month was not well-promoted in local libraries and businesses. Some libraries had no displays. Was it promoted in schools?

Women on the panel discussed a number of questions prepared by organizer Brenda Seward of Simple Pleasures Books and Gifts. The panel talked about books we first read growing up, authors we wished to emulate as writers, personal writing heroines, and mentors who helped in our careers as authors.

The event was enlightening about the roles of women in the world and in our own lives. For the future, we need to do what we can to raise awareness of Women's History month.

Women's History Month - What Woman Most Influenced Your Writing?

2011-03-25T10:03:00.000-07:00

March is Women's History Month. Thinking about women and history, what woman in your life most influenced your writing?

Since I am part of a roundtable discussion on this subject, I've been thinking about the women who have greatly influenced my writing. The one with the most profound inspiration for me was the late Jane Deringer.

When our daughter Amy was 14 years old, we received a telephone call from Rappahannock Community College inviting her to participate in a creative writing class they were offering. Amy had been in gifted programs for young writers since she was in the sixth grade, and I was happy for the opportunity for her to further develop her talents. However, since she wasn't old enough to drive, I drove the ten miles to the college and decided to take the evening class with her.

Jane was the instructor, and I loved her and I loved being in the class. With her encouragement and guidance, I started writing a romance novel. The class fascinated me. I enjoyed listening to others read what they were writing. Amy wrote as well, but she was growing up and didn't continue taking Jane's classes in the following years like I did.

When Jane encouraged me to become a member of the Richmond Branch of the National League of American Pen Women, I joined as an arts member. Since I was not published at the time, I did not qualify in letters. I learned about travel writing from Jane and from other members of Pen Women. With their helpful tips, I submitted travel articles and photographs to newspapers and magazines that published them. I was thrilled to actually get paid for my writing!

Jane was a huge advocate for writers. She encouraged everyone and actually started the Chesapeake Bay Writers Club. I was a charter member of that group. Roger Fulton was one of Jane's writing students. A retired police officer, he started the Police Writer's Club with Jane's help. That group is now the Public Safety Writers Association with members who are among my writing friends now. Jane also started the Chesapeake Bay Branch National League of American Pen Women. Since she needed six members to have a branch, I transferred my membership from Richmond and became a charter member of the new group.

Jane also planned an annual writer's conference at the community college that continued for at least 16 years. In the beginning the college served an outdoor barbeque as part of the event which became quite popular and drew people from several states. Each year she invited me to help with it, and on several occasions I was one of the speakers.

Because of her dedication to others, Jane didn't publish many books herself. She encouraged Dr. George Ritchie in his writing about his near-death experience. She was instrumental in many authors getting published, including me.

As writers and creative people of all types, we need mentors. These are people we will never forget. I will certainly always remember Jane Deringer and the influence she had on my writing life.

Simple Pleasures Books and Gifts is sponsoring the roundtable discussion March 26, 1 to 4 p.m. at Ashland Coffee and Tea in Ashland, VA about the women who influenced the lives of authors Ruth Doumlele, Sylvia Wright, Pamela Kinney, and Mary Montague Sikes. Due to a death in her family, Joanne Liggan is unable to participate.

Hang on to Your Dreams and Write, Write, Write

2011-03-19T16:35:00.000-07:00

"Veil of Dreams" (detail) MM Sikes

If you have a dream, hold on to it and write, write, write. I recently read an article about best-selling author Cathy Maxwell, and it made me remember how important it is to hang onto your dreams, especially if you are a writer.

I've known Cathy for over 20 years, from the time before she was a published author. She joined Virginia Romance Writers a few years after it was founded and soon undertook the role of a vivacious leader in the organization.Cathy has an amazing smile, and long after she leaves a room you remember her smile. That beautiful, happy attitude has helped Cathy become and remain an outstanding, successful author in historical romance. The article I read said that it took Cathy two years to sell the first novel she wrote. She now has 22 published novels and has been part of five anthologies.

Cathy had a dream, and despite adversity when she lost her husband in a tragic accident, she hung on and continued to write. Romance novels account for nearly 50% of mass market paperback sales. Her books are part of that popular market.

But you don't have to be a romance writer to be a selling author. If you dream about writing mystery or even non-fiction paranormal books, hang on to those dreams and keep writing. Write, write, write until you sell. That is a real key to success.

Presenting a Workshop on a College Campus

2011-03-16T17:22:00.000-07:00

Earlier this week, when I arrived at the campus of the University of Mary Washington to present a writer's workshop, one thing I did not have to worry about was finding a place to park. Barbara Quann, trade book specialist for the university bookstore, had arranged a parking spot for me as well as many other special accommodations. That made for a pleasant and positive experience at the university from which I received my undergraduate degree in psychology.

So much of the campus has changed since I was there, but as I was preparing one of my talks for the day on creating a gathering book I began to realize how much I owe my university.Years ago, I took my first art class ever while attending Mary Washington. Drawing and Design was offered in a wing of duPont Hall. In that class, we created a portfolio for the art work we made as well as for the sources of some of our creative ideas. That was indeed my first gathering book. Many more gathering books and portfolios have been created in the years that followed, but, as with many other things, the first one was very special.

I wanted to major in art there, but my father did not approve. After all, art wasn't a good way to earn a living. He was right, but in my heart of hearts I've always yearned to create art.

And I've always had to write.

That was another place where the University of Mary Washington played a large part. While I was working as a student assistant in the English department, a retired professor emeritus hired me to type his novel written out in his sometimes difficult to discern handwriting. I typed the manuscript, and I learned a great deal from the experience.

As I think back, my four years gave me a lot more than I realized at the time. And I am still using what I learned in my art, in my writing, and also in my teaching.

Encaustic Artist Workshop - Loving Art

2011-03-11T13:49:00.000-08:00

Because I love art, artist workshops intrigue me--especially those close to home. Arts Alive!, our local support group for the arts, has a marvelous schedule of artist workshops. One of my favorites is the Encaustic Painting Workshop, sponsored by the Virginia Museum and taught by Karen Eide.

Karen drives her giant van into town and sets up an array of heating ensembles, trays of molten wax (both bees and paraffin), lumps of wax colored pigments, piles of paint brushes, heat guns, mat board pieces, books, and much more. She demonstrates some of the techniques for painting with this beautiful hot colored wax, then for five hours her students get to experiment with the process.

Molten wax heats on hot plate

Projects in progress

Heat gun fuses wax

Some students may choose to use a collage technique incorporating photographs, drawings, beads, sequins, and many found items. Others just enjoy discovering what happens as colors mix in transparent overlays. Whatever techniques are chosen, the entire process is a lot of fun!

Nook Vs. Kindle - What's the Story?

2011-03-09T19:27:00.000-08:00

My mystery/suspense novel, Night Watch is available as both a Nook and a Kindle book as well as a trade paperback. Ever since my publisher released the Nookbooks version, I have wondered what the difference is in sales between the two e-book formats for other authors.

I've watched the ads for both. Kindle looks like a good e-reader, and Nook looks great for the visual folks among us who like to see color whenever we can.

So far, I hate to admit it, but I do not own an e-reader. If I had one, I don't know when I would use it. Life just gets in the way.

Still, I find the technology fascinating, and I long to try one out. But I don't want anything else I don't have time to use right away.

What about you? What's the story between Kindle and Nook? Or does each have its own place in our ballooning technological society? I'd love to hear your story...