"Bond. James Bond." and Other Iconic Movie Lines

Hubby and I were out at dinner the other night, and we started talking about great movie lines. Being a fan of Gone with the Wind, the first one that came out of my mouth was, “Frankly my dear, I don’t give a damn.” GWTW has a few iconic lines, like “After all, tomorrow is another day,” and “As God is my witness, I’ll never be hungry again.”

The romantic movie, Casablanca, starring Ingrid Bergman and Humphrey Bogart, supplied many great one-liners:

• “Here’s looking at you, kid.” 
• “Of all the gin joints in all the towns in all the world, she comes into mine.” 
• “Round up the usual suspects.” 
• “We’ll always have Paris.” 
• "Louis, I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship."

The Wizard of Oz delivered as well with lines like:

• “Toto, I’ve got a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore.”
• “There’s no place like home.” 
• “I’ll get you, my pretty, and your little dog too!”

You know these lines because so many of them have made their way into our daily lexicon. Here’s a list of a few more that come to mind:

• “I’m going to make him an offer he can’t refuse.” – Vito Corleone, The Godfather
• “Go ahead, make my day.” – Harry Callahan, Sudden Impact
• “E.T. phone home.” – E.T., E.T. the Extraterrestrial
• “May the force be with you.” – Han Solo, Star Wars
• “I’ll be back.” – The Terminator, The Terminator
• “Houston, we have a problem.” – Jim Lovell, Apollo 13

Romantic one-liners:

• “You had me at ‘hello.’” – Dorothy Boyd, Jerry Maguire
• “Love means never having to say you’re sorry.” – Jennifer Barrett, Love Story
• “Nobody puts Baby in a corner.” – Johnny Castle, Dirty Dancing

Scene stealers:

• “I’ll have what she’s having.” Customer (Rob Reiner’s mother), When Harry Met Sally
• “Here’s Johnny!” – Jack Torrance, The Shining
• “You can’t handle the truth!” – Col. Nathan Jessup, A Few Good Men

What are some of your favorite movie one-liners?

Stop the Treadmill, I Want to Get Off!

Do you ever feel like you're on a treadmill and someone keeps upping the speed and you can't seem to slow it down and you can't get off the damn thing, either? That's where I am right now, running as fast as my little legs can go, desperately trying not to fall off.

September, and so far, October have been insanely busy, and November isn't looking much better. And don't mention holiday shopping! Hubby and I have a non-profit foundation (in addition to my day job and this writing gig), and September included a historical fashion show fundraiser. Two weeks later I had a surprise birthday bash for Hubby. Last Saturday we had a new event for us, the Halloweener Derby, and this weekend we host our 10th annual sports camp for kids with cancer. Next weekend is Hubby's big Rotary Club fundraiser. In the meantime, I received my revisions from my editor for Dreams of Her Own.

And did I mention I have a day job?

Some days it's all I can do to hold onto the treadmill hand rails while the belt goes round and round at ever increasing speeds.

There is a glimmer of hope on the horizon, however. I have a couple of work holidays coming in the next two weeks, and I think I might just tack on some vacation days. Hang out at home with Hubby, sleep in, maybe catch a movie. Nothing big. Nothing fancy. Just a little down time.

If I survive 'til then.

Guest Author Samanthya

I'm pleased to welcome fellow Soul Mate author, Samanthya Wyatt. Samanthya writes hot sizzling

romance, and her book, The One and Only (Book 3 in the One and Only Series) is now available on Kindle.

In the first book of the series, The Right One, Katherine’s brother is missing. Book 2, The True One, is Stephen’s story—why he was gone for two years, what happened to him, and a love story all his own. And now—book three. Giles was introduced in the first book as Morgan’s best friend—the duke. In the second book, he is asked to rescue Kat’s brother, Stephen. The Only One is his love story.



Blurb:

A dangerous lord’s warning sparks devastating results

One impulsive kiss to prove the young girl flirted with danger shakes Giles’ firm resolve. The young American is wild and reckless, and before long he realizes, she’s too much to handle. He surrenders. A duke must adhere to his duty. His title demands his home is in England. Tormented with longing for the woman who branded his very soul, he forsakes nobility and returns to claim the love he has carelessly thrown away.

A girl’s determination triggers a woman’s desire

From the first moment Alexandria saw the duke she knew he would be hers. Determined to get the man she wants, she devises a plan, curbs her reckless nature, and presents the proper lady his nobility requires. The interference of her brothers disrupts her amours pursuit, yet the feisty girl seduces the lord with a woman’s passion, and brands the duke hers forever.





Excerpt:

“I was not spying.”

“Of course you weren’t. Judging from the conversation I interrupted, no young girl would know the subject they were discussing anyway.”

Her face flushed scarlet. He arched a brow. Surely she had no idea the boys were speaking of tupping a girl’s skirts.

“You’re handsome,” the girl stated baldly, expanding a breath as if she’d held her mouth closed too long.

He didn’t know whether to be flattered or feel concern at a possible purpose behind her words.

“What do you know of handsome men?”

“My brothers, I guess are handsome. But they’re my brothers. I don’t care enough about other men to consider them handsome.”

Care?

“So then, why are you here?” He gave her his best glare.

“I’ve grown out of pigtails. I’m a woman now.”

Swallowing his amazement, he nearly choked. “Donning a dress does not make you a woman.” His gaze dipped in a slow, silent perusal. The damn girl’s breeches emphasized her curves, leaving nothing to a man’s imagination. Not that he should notice, of course, but . . . Damnation. She didn’t look the least like a child.

“I see you’ve resorted to breeches again. After your brothers’ reproaching insults, I would think you’d learned your lesson.”

She thrust out her chest. “Papa always said I had spirit. I am not unwise.”

“You think it wise to hide in a tackle bin? To be alone here with me?”

“You’re a duke. A gentleman.”

He gave a harsh laugh. “Being a duke does not make me a gentleman.”

“But Aunt Cornelia said English aristocrats live by their honor. You’re a nobleman. You have integrity, and morals.”

“Morals? Honor? A man lives by his own decree. What if I were to take liberties?”

“I can handle you.” Her eyes lit up and she seemed too sure of herself.

The gall of the chit.

With one quick movement, his hands shot out and jerked her against his chest. A gasp rushed from her throat, but she boldly held his gaze. With deliberate daring, his arms imprisoned her.

He watched the emotions flitting over her face. He meant to punish, to teach, to frighten. His gaze lowered to her mouth.

He’d send her fleeing for good.

He captured her lips in a forceful kiss.

Her fingers twisted his shirt.

Good God, she kissed him back. With such enthusiasm, he was flabbergasted.

Unconscionable, that one so young should kiss with such skill. Had the damned girl been coached? She should slap him, call him a knave. Push him away, scream at him. Instead, she twined her arms about his neck while her warm, seeking tongue pirouetted a mating dance with his.

Chest heaving, he grabbed her shoulders and thrust her away.

“Where the hell did you learn to kiss like that?”

About Samanthya:

Samanthya lives with her husband in the Shenandoah Valley. She left her accounting career and married a military man traveling and making her home in the United States and abroad. Once she found historical romance novels, she couldn’t put a book down. She fell in love with the characters and needed to know their happy ending.

One day she put words to paper creating a story of her own. The more she wrote, the more she became involved with the characters, and they seemed to take a life of their own. She relishes the challenge of penning a story with strong characters, a bit of humor, and active scenes. She enjoys creating new characters and bringing them together in a romantic tale. It took years of writing, joining RWA, joining chapters, entering contests, submissions& rejections which created the author she is today. By keeping her spirit and turning criticism into drive she has achieved her career as a published romance author.

You can find Samanthya on the internet at:

Website | Facebook | Twitter

Life in the Fast Lane

Whew! I almost missed my Thursday blog post! Life's been a bit out of control the last few weeks. I threw a surprise party for my hubby last week, which was months in the planning, and had a houseful of out-of-town guests who came to the party. I'm working on the revisions from my editor for Dreams of Her Own, due out at the end of the year. The day-job has been a little insane, and I have two community events in as many weeks. Not to mention all the regular stuff that has to get done on a day-to-day basis. I don't even want to THINK about the upcoming holidays.

Do you ever wonder why events seem to converge into a narrow window of time? You can go for weeks or even months just bumping along at a steady pace, and then WHAM! Three, four, five things are crammed into a short period. Even if they're all good, the stress can take a toll on you.

As an introvert, I crave downtime. Alone time. Me time. And when life gets crazy, and I don't get that, I turn into a bitch, um, grouch. Just ask my hubby -- he'll tell you.

What do you do when life piles it on? Do you thrive under the pressure, or cave like a cheap suitcase?  What helps you cope?

Driving While Distracted

I don't usually do this, but I feel a rant coming on, and it's been building for the past several weeks. In my daily commutes to and from my day job, I encounter, on a regular basis, my top five driving pet peeves, and all five of them come down to one thing: driver inattention/distraction.

1. Stopping five car lengths from the car in front of you, prohibiting the car behind you from:

a. pulling into the turn lane (where there is a green light);
b. pulling into the turn lane, so as to avoid having the car's tail-end in traffic; or
c. blocking the intersection.

2. Texting or talking on the phone. I passed a car the other day who was going ten miles an hour below the speed limit. When I passed, I noticed the driver looking, no, STARING, at his smartphone (and wasn't even trying to hide it). It was right there, in his face, at steering wheel level. His passenger? Also deeply engrossed in whatever cat video/puppy photo/Kim Kardashian post was trending that day.

I pulled around in front of him and stopped at a red light, fearfully watching in my rear view mirror as he never looked up from his phone, certain he was going to rear-end me. He finally stopped, just inches from my bumper, without ever looking up from his phone. As I accelerated after the green light, he didn't even bother to look up then. Honestly, I don't know how he made it to his destination without an accident.

3. Applying makeup. Ladies, please don't be one of those women who finish getting dressed in the car. Aside from causing an accident, you could poke your eye out. Seriously. In a previous life, I managed an ophthalmology practice. I can't tell you how many women we saw with corneal abrasions because they were applying (or I should say, attempting to apply) mascara while driving. Apply your makeup at home, in the privacy of your own bathroom. Or wait until you get to the office.

4. Reading. I kid you not. I've seen folks reading their Kindles, a paperback, a magazine, even a newspaper, which, by the way, was spread across their steering wheel like a blanket over a bird cage. Even if it's one of my books and you're at a really juicy part, don't read and drive.

5. Failing to accelerate at a green light. The light turns green and the cars in front tentatively tap the accelerator, barely reaching the speed limit. This has become my biggest pet peeve. You wonder why there is a long line of traffic when there doesn't appear to be any traffic obstruction. I call these people "unintentional drivers," because they drive without intention. They never really reach the speed limit, they're hesitant, distracted, and very, very annoying.

Okay. Rant over. Whew! I feel better now.

What are your biggest driving pet peeves?

A Dose of Fashion

So, two Thursdays ago I took the day off from blogging because Hubby and I were busy with a fundraising event. In addition to my day job, and my writing, Hubby and I have a non-profit foundation that raises money for cancer patient support programs. And this post is all about that event, which we called A Dose of Fashion.

There is a woman in our community who puts on historical fashion shows and she tailors them (no pun intended) to your subject matter. In the case of our fundraiser, she developed a show about fashion, history, medicine and women, from the 15th century through the 1960's. And here's the really fun part for me -- I was given the opportunity to model in the show, and I had an absolute blast!

About six weeks before the show I went to her home where she has an enormous room filled with costumes from every era you can imagine, from the Middle Ages, up to present day, and many of them vintage. And the hats! Oh, the hats! Then there were the accoutrements -- gloves and parasols, jewelry and shoes, handbags and undergarments. In a constantly dehumidified room I tried on a Victorian half-mourning gown, complete with vintage hat, parasol, and gloves. Then there was the fabulous Roaring 20's ensemble, the coat and cloche hat also vintage. Finally, I slipped on a vintage wool suit trimmed with a chinchilla collar that fit like it was made for me. I tried on a few more gowns just for fun.

What a day! Like playing dress up when I was a little girl. 

The fashion show included high tea, a table decorating contest, and dozens of beautiful costumes. All very girlie. I've included photos of me in my three costumes below, but you can see more photos at our Facebook page.

And best of all, we raised a good deal of money to support oncofertility programs for cancer patients.

Did you love to play dress-up as a little girl? Inquiring minds want to know.

Guest Author RB Austin

I'm excited to have RB Austin, fellow Soul Mate author, on my blog today with an excerpt and the beautiful cover from her latest book, Fallen Darkness, Book 2 in the Trihune Series. The book is available now on Kindle.

Blurb:

The war between Apollyon and the Trihune has begun.

Lucas scours the street in need of a fix. He captures his enemy instead of kills. Spins lies instead of truth. Seeks darkness instead of light. So close to the edge with no concern for the fall.

The map was foretold. Its key long lost.

Sent on a mission to find the key necessary to defeat Apollyon, Lucas meets Kate. Fiery, powerful, unable-to-touch-any-object Kate. As his feelings for her grow, the addiction inside him wanes.

Until he learns she is not meant for him.

Find the key. Find the way and triumph.

His future with Kate is bleak. The darkness, too hard to control. The key, still lost.

Can Lucas win the battle raging inside his body in order to win the war rising on the streets?

Excerpt:

For the first time, Kate allowed the fear she’d felt in the priest’s house to trickle in. She’d kept

it under wraps after making her decision to work for him.

Her mind flashed to the high metal gate closing behind them. She hadn’t heard the clank of metal as it latched, but, now, in her head, she did.

Trapped. There was no way to climb the gate. It was too high. The surrounding trees were tall, but not close enough to use to get out. She hadn’t seen a fence on the drive up to the house, but she’d known it was there. No one installed an entrance like that unless it connected three other sides.

Always have a way out. It was the first part of her plan. More often than not she needed that escape.

Kate jumped when Lucas touched her arm, just above her gloved hand. She jerked back. Heard a loud, quick rasp fill the car and realized it was her. She was breathing heavy. She tried to slow it. To quiet it.

She couldn’t.

“Kate.” He spoke quietly. “I promise you’ll be safe.”

Her gaze latched onto his blue one’s. She’d trusted him. She never trusted anyone. But for some reason she’d trusted him. Had willingly got into his car. Allowed him to drive her across the country.

She was the kid taking candy from the dirty, perverted old man. For her own idiocy, Kate deserved whatever happened to her. She was street smart. Proud of it, ‘cause she never made it through high school.

She was a fool. And this place would be her downfall. She’d never get out. Never see Stacy again.

It was hard to breathe. The frickin’ heat was finally off but it was so hot. She had to get out.

Get out.

She grappled for the door handle. Spots danced in front of her eyes. Panic swarmed in full force.

Don’t faint. Not here. Don’t lose consciousness.

Noises sounded from her left. Lucas was leaving the car.

What would happen to her? They could do anything to her. She’d be helpless.

Her door opened and she’d have fallen out if Lucas hadn’t caught her by the shoulders. The urge to pull away from his touch was strong, but she’d fall flat on her face if she did. Cold air blasted her. She lifted her head. Allowed it to push back the spots. Clear her vision. She sat in her seat sideways. Lucas’s hands were still on her shoulders supporting her as she half leaned out of the car. She sucked in gulps of air. Her gaze sought his through no will of her own and stayed.

Kate didn’t know how long she sat. Lucas never once shifted or acted like his arms were getting tired. Slowly her breath evened out. She braced her arms on the door jam and slowly leaned back against the seat.

“Better?”

She wasn’t going to pass out now, so that was better. But the fear was still there. She was still trapped.

“Kate?”

Her gaze darted around the grounds, searching the perimeter. Hurry. Find a way out.

“Kate, look at me.”

Again, her eyes found his.

“What can I do to prove you’ll be safe here? No one will hurt you.”

She made her own safety. Didn’t rely on others to provide it for her. She jumped from the car, making him back up. Spots danced crazily in front of her eyes. Maybe she was still going to pass out? Kate reached out, clutched something. She would not faint. Her gaze latched onto Lucas’s and she used him as a focal point to steady her breaths. When the dizziness passed and her vision had cleared she realized her hand was in his, squeezing it tight. She dropped it quickly. Leaned back against the door.

“Come on,” he said softly. “Let me show you. No one will harm you in any way. If you’re still afraid afterward I’ll take you anywhere you want to go.”

She stiffened. “I’m not afraid.” Was that her voice, weak and high-pitched? She pushed away from the door, making herself stand on her own. Then had to lock her knees to keep from falling back against the car.

His lips twitched like he was going to smile, but he didn’t. He just offered his arm, as if she were some damsel in distress and he was the dashing hero ready to save the day.

Yeah, right.

“Let’s go inside,” he said.

She ignored his still raised hand and walked past, keeping her arm out near the SUV in case she had to catch herself. For the moment, the dizziness had fled. The cold wind battering her cheeks helped. From the number of trees surrounding the place, she’d thought it would act as a buffer to the elements, but it seemed to have the opposite effect. Lucas stopped at the back of the SUV and retrieved his bag.

Her heart pounded faster as they neared the door.

Calm down. She could get out of anything. She wasn’t helpless. Would never be that way again. This was a job. Just a place to make money. Nothing more.

So why did it feel like if she walked into the mansion, she’d never leave?

The doors opened as they headed up the steps. Kate jerked, falling back two stairs until Lucas’s arm came around her. It was comforting. She moved to the side, breaking contact. Her heart slowed at the old man wearing a suit standing in the doorway. She could definitely take him. If it came to it.

“Welcome back, adohn,” he said and bowed.

Kate’s gaze shifted from the old guy to Lucas. What the hell?

Pick up your copy today. 

About RB:

RB Austin enjoys torturing dogs (dressing her Cairn terrier in knitted sweaters and booties), embarrassing her daughter (singing in the car . . . at the top of her lungs . . . with the windows open . . . at a stop light), and indulging in the second deadliest sin (chocolate, Swedish fish, chocolate, sour patch watermelons, and chocolate).

This author’s love of the sun puts in her in the more-than-likely-not-a-vampire category, unless you’re referring to the bloodsuckers in her Trihune series, then all bets are off.

Feeling stalkerish? You can visit RB at these internet locations:

Website | Facebook | Twitter

Taking the Day Off

On this blog day, Hubby and I are busy with a fundraising event. In addition to my day job, and my writing, Hubby and I have a non-profit foundation that raises money for cancer patient support programs. I'll be posting about the event the week after next, so stay tuned.

Next week I'll have guest author, RB Austin, on Rebecca's Reflections.

The Dog Days of Summer

Living in Florida, I have a love/hate relationship with summer. When I was young and carefree, summer was my favorite time of year — running barefoot, swimming, water skiing, sunbathing — I lived in swimsuits and didn’t put on shoes until school started again.

What I'd like to do in the dog days of summer. 

Now, not so much. Now, being the responsible adult that I am, I have to work year round, and work clothes don’t exactly scream easy, breezy summer. You'd think as a Florida native (a rare breed), I'd be accustomed to our summers, but in my more, ahem, mature years, I’ve become less tolerant of the heat. And in the heat and humidity that is North Central Florida, I have perpetually bad hair days.

I tell my husband that our summer is like the North’s winter.  We don’t go out unless we’re partaking of water-related activities, like swimming, skiing, paddleboarding, or kayaking. In the winter in the North, you don’t go out unless you’re partaking in snow and ice activities like snow skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, or sledding. While the North is freezing off important body parts, we are barbecuing, walking around in short sleeves, and just generally enjoying the great outdoors. It’s a trade-off.

Summer isn’t all bad. Living in a university town, I love summer because about 40% of our population leaves town. It makes for pleasant commutes, no waiting for tables in restaurants, and no lines in the movie theatres. You can shop in Target and Bed Bath, and Beyond without fighting over bath towels and Tervis tumblers, and Ann Taylor doesn’t sell out of your size the first day an item is in stock.

But all good things must come to an end. The students have returned, Target is filled with dorm supplies, my commute is now twice as long, and forget about grabbing a quick lunch.  

Too bad the heat and humidity hasn’t come to an end. That won’t happen until sometime in October. And if we’re lucky we’ll feel the first hints of fall around the middle of November.

Which season do you have a love/hate relationship with? Summer or Winter? 

Romance Awareness Month - Creative Date Nights

It's Romance Awareness Month and so far I've talked about how the little things count when it comes to romance, and alternative dinner venues. This week, I turn to alternative ideas for date night. Sure dinner and a movie is a wonderful date night, but there are so many other creative options out there.

Here are just a few:

Visit a planetarium. If you're lucky enough to have a planetarium where you live, this is a perfect romantic date. What's more romantic than gazing up at our amazing universe (or a scientifically created replica) with the one we love? Some planetariums have concerts. Those are really fun!

Take in a free outdoor play. Summer is a great time to enjoy the warm evenings with a little Shakespeare in the Park.

Baseball anyone? If your city has a major league team, or even a minor league team, take him out to the ball game. Have some peanuts and Cracker Jacks! Maybe you'll catch a foul ball as a memento.

Take a stroll. With the lingering light summertime offers, you can take a stroll hand-in-hand in your favorite park, along the river, or along the beach. Watch the sun set and the stars come out.

Take a drive. Put on your favorite tunes, map out some back-country roads and take in the scenery. Maybe you'll stumble across a charming restaurant for an impromptu dinner or drink.

Park. Come on, you remember parking, right? Cuddle up with your honey in some dark, out-of-the-way place. Just be careful out there! You don't want to get arrested for indecent exposure. Nothing douses a hot date like finding yourself and your honey in the clink.

Visit an amusement park. It doesn't have to be Disney World or Universal Studios to be fun. Some communities have local amusement parks with games, rides, those yummy, but oh-so-bad-for-you, funnel cakes. Throw caution to wind and eat all those artery-clogging foods, hold hands on the ferris wheel, take home a five foot teddy bear, because everyone needs a five foot teddy bear in their life. Be a kid again.

Go for ice cream (or gelato, or frozen yogurt). If you can ride bikes or walk to the ice cream shop, even better. Order different flavors and share.

Go out for a progressive dinner. Have drinks at one spot, appetizers at another, entrees at another, and dessert at yet another. If they're all within walking distance, enjoy a stroll between courses.

Go bowling. Midnight or Disco bowling is even better. Get your groove on with some disco music and a mirror ball. And nothing says cool like a pair of bowling shoes.

What are some of your alternative date night ideas? And don't forget to check my Facebook page for this week's giveaway.

Romance Awareness Month - Alternative Dinner Venues

It’s Romance Awareness Month, and this month I’m blogging about all things romance. Going out for a candlelight dinner for two is always romantic, but what about shaking things up a bit? Go for something off-the-beaten path. Here are five alternatives to the candlelight dinner for two.

1. Cuddle up for a night-time picnic. We’ve all had picnic lunches at the park, or by the lake, but what about at night? Put together a simple picnic basket, with cheeses, fruit, a crusty bread, wine or champagne, and of course chocolate. Toss down a blanket at your favorite park, or better yet, in your own backyard. If it’s chilly, cuddle up and listen to the night sounds and gaze at the stars.

2.  Enjoy a beach bonfire built for two. After a romantic dinner out, have desert on the beach next to a roaring fire. S’mores are perfect. Be sure to check local laws. Nothing is less romantic than spending a night in jail. 

3.  If you’re lucky enough to live on the water and have a boat, take the boat out and drop anchor. Dine on your favorite portable foods like fried chicken, potato salad, and chocolate cake. If you don’t have a boat, a dock will do just fine. 

4. Up on the roof. If you live in a city high-rise, dine on the roof, with the lights of the city spread out around you, and the sounds of traffic far below. 

5.  Take in an outdoor concert. Many concerts in the park allow patrons to bring food, so pack a cooler and a blanket for a little dancing beneath the stars.

Let's hear you ideas for alternative dinner venues. Two lucky commenters will win a free eBook of Ship of Dreams. 

Romance Awareness Month - It's the Little Things That Count

In honor of Romance Awareness Month, I’m blogging about ways to add a little romance back into

your life. Last week, I talked about the little things that show you care. I thought I'd continue that topic today.

We often think in grand gestures when we want to show our significant other how much they mean to us. Grand gestures are wonderful, but it’s the daily gestures that show you care. Here are five ways to make the little things count.

1. Give a gift just because. It doesn’t have to be a diamond necklace. It can be a jar of bath salts for her, or a cool gizmo for him. You might even see something among the impulse items at the register. Was he complaining the other night about never having a flashlight handy when he needed one? Grab one of those super-bright LED flashlight key chains. She loves to cook and always complains about not having the right food processor attachment. Pick one up for her. 

My husband loves peanut butter more than life itself. He could eat it every day if I let him. We love the all-natural peanut butter, but the oil separates from the peanut butter, and it’s hard to mix it up. I came across a really cool Peanut Butter Hand Crank Mixer in a cooking magazine, so I ordered it and gave it to him as a gift-for-no-reason. He loved it and thanked me for my thoughtfulness.

2. Guys, encourage a girls’ weekend away, or even a girls’ shopping day, and when she comes home surprise her with a clean house. You’d get lucky that night for sure! 

3. Girls, suggest a poker party for him and his buddies, then make gourmet subs or pizzas for the party. Bonus: after you feed the guys, you can go indulge in a hot bubble bath and a glass of wine for a little me time.

4. Ask your significant other how their day went, then stop what you’re doing and actively listen. Ask questions, offer suggestions, and just generally show you’re interested. 

5. Offer to give a foot or shoulder and neck massage. Guys, you see where this is going, right?

What little things do you do to show that special someone you care?

Don't forget to check my Facebook page for this week's giveaway!

August is Romance Awareness Month

August is Romance Awareness Month – the month to add a little romance back into your life. Whether that means special date nights with your significant other or curling up with a romance novel or romantic movie, set aside some time to focus on romance. I blogged recently about some of my favorite romantic movies, romcons, and classic romantic novels, just to give you a few ideas. 

I thought Urban Dictionary had the best definition of romance: 

True romance is doing something special or unexpected for someone you love, even though you don't have to. Romance isn't a greeting card, it isn't Valentine's Day, it isn't a box of chocolates, and it certainly isn't a dozen roses (unless you like that sort of thing). Real romance is not what modern society has been taught to think it is. Real romance isn't manufactured. It is completely individual. Romance is for showing the person you love that you're thinking about them. It shouldn't feel forced. There are no limits to romance; it can be shown by a handwritten note, by going for a walk, or even by making someone a sandwich. Romance is something simple and sweet that reminds your partner why they fell in love with you in the first place.

So, in that same vein, let's talk about some ways to add a little romance back into your life. Romance authors like writing about creative ways the hero and heroine can show how much they care for each other, and it’s often the little things that count. For instance, actively listening to your significant other is a perfect way to show you care. So are simple gestures. If you’re making yourself a cup of coffee, ask your SO if he’d like one too. And don’t wait for special occasions – stash a greeting card in a drawer or under a pillow for him to find, just because.

In Rescuing Lacey, the heroine shows her attentiveness to the hero’s interests when she gives him a beautiful watercolor set. In return, he shows he’s paying attention to their conversations when he gives her a very meaningful Christmas gift. 

Sometimes showing your love means giving, what looks like to outsiders, to be a very unromantic gift, but the gift means the world to the recipient. A friend once gave his wife a humidifier. Most people laughed it off, but to his wife, who’d been suffering with asthma related to the dry climate where they lived, cried over his thoughtfulness.

But showing how much you care doesn’t always have to involve gifts. During Thanksgiving dinner, in The Promise of Change, the hero notices the heroine is cold, and without prompting, rises from the table to get her a sweater. It’s all about attentiveness and genuine concern.

This month I’ll be blogging about all things romance. So stay tuned. And I love to hear your ideas for showing your significant other that you care.

I'll also be giving away print copies of my books, so check out my Facebook page for weekly giveaways!

RWA Wrap Up

The Romance Writers of America (RWA) National Conference in New York City ended this past Saturday, and my head is still spinning. So much great information, so many things to add to my to-do list, and so many new story ideas.

World Trade Center

The conference began with a little family time. On Tuesday and Wednesday, I got to hang out with my nephew and his beautiful wife who live in Queens. On Wednesday, I spent a solemn morning at the September 11th Memorial then headed up to Chelsea to walk the beautiful High Line from beginning to end.

High Line

On Thursday, the conference began in earnest, and I had my first fan-girl moment when I spied Jill Shelves having breakfast two tables over. Following an awesome session with Nora Roberts, I had several more fan-girl moments. Like when I saw first Jodi Thomas, then Jayne Ann Krentz, followed by Kristan Higgins and Julie James. Only at RWA can you see the rockstars of romance up close and personal, and they don't even call security.

Nora Roberts (left) and Kristan Higgins (far right)

I capped off the fun-filled week with a fabulous dinner at The View, New York City's only revolving restaurant, followed by the RITA and Golden Heart Award Ceremony – the Oscars of the romance writing world.

The Chrysler Building (left) not to be confused with my dessert (right).

Now it's time to put all that new-found knowledge to work and start the next book, Romancing Dr. Love. Sigh. Until next year . . .

Top 5 Most Romantic Classic Novels of All Time

Continuing my theme of "top five most romantic," since I'm at the national conference of the Romance Writers of America this week, it seems only fitting that I should list my top five most romantic classic novels of all time. So here they are. 

#5 Wuthering Heights – Wuthering Heights is the turbulent and wildly passionate love-story of Cathy and Heathcliff, two people who cannot love together, yet cannot bear to live apart. Their love-hate relationship and unresolved passion eventually threatens to destroy them and many around them. But they’re two parts of the same soul destined to be joined for all eternity.

#4 Jane Eyre – Charlotte Bronte’s classic story of a young orphan girl who overcomes cruelty,

loneliness and heartbreak and falls in love with her dark, dashing and handsome employer, Mr. Rochester, is one of great passions and dark secrets. A true Gothic tale complete with a shadowy manor house, unexplained noises, suspicious activities, and a brooding hero. But it’s the love of Jane and Rochester that make this number four on my list.

#3 Gone With the Wind – Margaret Mitchell’s sweeping epic novel about the South during the Civil War. The saga tells the story of Scarlett O’Hara and the dashing, roguish Rhett Butler, beginning on the eve of the war through Sherman’s March, the Reconstruction Era and beyond. Scarlett’s evolution from spoiled Southern Belle to tough, smart business woman is one of the main reasons I love the story. Many find nothing to admire in Scarlett, but I admire her grit in the face of war, hunger, and death.

Rhett is the quintessential bad boy, but the one soft spot in his heart is for Scarlett. He not only loves her for who she is, he respects her smarts and her determination. She leads him a merry chase, but she finally succumbs to his relentless pursuit. While he does leave her in the end, I believe the two are destined to be together in the story after the story.

#2 Emma - Jane Austen’s brilliant novel about the beautiful, wealthy, meddling matchmaker, Emma,

who refuses to listen to her friend George Knightley when it comes to arranging marriages. Emma is stubbornly certain she knows the best match for all involved. The complications Emma runs into, with Austen’s cast of droll characters, each mistaken in their beliefs as to who loves whom, including Emma herself, makes for delightful comedy. Emma must learn she isn’t always right, but it takes a spark of jealousy to make her realize she has loved Mr. Knightley all along.

#1 Pride and Prejudice – Austen’s “darling child” celebrated its 200^th anniversary in 2013! It’s astonishing to think a novel published 200 years ago is still relevant today. For those of you who don’t know, this wonderful novel tells the story of the fiercely independent, Elizabeth Bennett, one of five sisters who must marry rich.  Along comes Mr. Darcy, wealthy, arrogant, and of course, quite handsome. Confounded by her, he plays the aloof, superior gentleman, determined to snub his nose at her and her family. But he soon finds himself unable to resist her wit, charm, and beauty. With delightful twists and turns, this comedy of manners is far and above my favorite romantic novel of all time. 

What novels would make your top five most romantic classics?

RWA Style 2015

The National Conference of the Romance Writers of America (RWA) is less than a week away and this year it's in the Big Apple. What is RWA, you ask? It's the once-a-year extravaganza where over 2000 aspiring, newbie, and best-selling authors (mostly women, but not all) converge on a conference center to learn, share, talk, rub elbows with, and generally immerse themselves in all things romance. Think of it as Comic-Con for romance authors.

It's really quite extraordinary to see 2000 people in one place, all devoted to the romance genre and all it's sub-genres. There's something for everyone! It's also exciting to see your favorite authors up-close-and personal. The tried and true greats from Nora Roberts and Jude Devereaux, to the latest phenoms like Kristan Higgins and Julie James are all under one roof. The week culminates in the Golden Heart Award (unpublished works) and the RITA's (published works), the Oscars of the romance world. I have to admit I go a little crazy fan-girl when I see Nora.

For the last couple of years, I've blogged about my preparations for the Big Event, and by preparations I mean wardrobe, of course! It's important to look your best, because you never know who you might meet, but it's also equally important to be comfortable. The week involves long days, lots of walking, and Arctic conference rooms. I contend that you don't have to wear a suit and heels to look polished and pulled together. Smart combinations, stylish but comfortable shoes, and some well-chosen accessories create a look that says, I'm professional, fashionable, and confident, and can earn you styles points.

I have such fun putting together my wardrobe! What can I say? I'm a clothing junkie.

I've learned over the years that building a wardrobe around one or two colors helps cut down on the number of accessories, like shoes and handbags, because you can mix and match. And if you wear one of the pairs of shoes on the plane, that's one less pair you have to pack.

So, here are my wardrobe choices for this year's RWA.

For the flight, I've chosen a pair of comfortable leggings and a tunic sweater. I get cold on airplanes and in airports, so I like something with a sleeve. I'm wearing black ballets (easy on and off at security), and I'll also wear them at the conference with another outfit or two.

For two of the conference days, I've chosen skinny jeans that can be dressed up or down. Pairing

them with a structured jacket or a cardigan really pulls the look together. Add a pair of ballets, and you've got a comfortable, but fashionable outfit. Sweaters and jackets are a must for conferences. I don't know about you, but when I'm cold, I can't concentrate. It's also a good idea to throw a pashmina in your conference bag. More on the conference bag below. (And, no, I'm not pregnant. My bed pillows just make my outfits look like an ad for Pea in a Pod.)

Bring along a couple of dressy T-shirts, and those jeans become something a little more casual. The T-shirts also make a great choice for the flight home.

On one particular day, I have special evening plans, so I'm bringing ivory and black skinny pants, along with a breezy black top. I'll add a bold necklace to the outfit to up the chic factor. During the day I'll be wearing those black ballets. But in the evening I'll slip into a pair of black patten platform pumps and add a small handbag in teal to add a pop of color.

The Awards Ceremony (aka The Big Night), every guy and gal puts on their best. Everything from evening dresses to little black dresses, and everything in between. Whatever makes you feel special. This year I'm going with a pair of champagne silk dupioni skinny pants with a champagne and black blouse. Black strappy sandals and a turquoise handbag complete the ensemble.

Don't forget to bring or carry a handy-dandy tote bag for carrying all that swag and the free books you pick up. Select something that looks polished, but has great organization pockets. When someone asks for your card, you don't want to scrounge around for ten minutes looking for one. Have them handy.

On the subject of swag, bring plenty of business cards, bookmarks, pens, lip balm, whatever you have  with your brand front and center. You don't want to miss an opportunity to introduce someone to what you write.

Last but not least, have fun. Remember why we all go to RWA – to get out of our writers' caves, meet other like-minded people, and have a little fun. And what better place to have a little fun than the Big Apple.

What did I miss? What do you think are conference essentials?

Top 5 Favorite Classic Romantic Comedies

Last week I listed my top 5 favorite modern romantic comedies. This week I'm listing my top 5 classic romantic comedies. I had to create two separate lists – otherwise I might have listed all classic movies, because growing up, I saw more classic movies then I did current ones. I cut my teeth on black and white movies starring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, Katherine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy, and Cary Grant and, well, anyone. Musicals were my favorite. I loved the costumes, the dancing, the kitsch. But right behind musicals were the romantic comedies, especially screwball comedies.

When American Movie Classics (AMC) actually ran classic movies, I was a huge fan. Then I made the switch to Turner Classic Movies (TCM). And my favorite favorites? Well, I bought them so I could watch them any time I wanted.

What makes the classics so great? The were funny without being raunchy (not that I don't enjoy a little raunch), and being funny without the raunch takes skill. And the subtle innuendo – so well-finessed you almost miss it.

So what are my top 5 favorite classic romantic comedies? Well, here they are (in no particular order):

His Girl Friday  (January 1940) - This madcap movie stars Cary Grant as Walter Burns, a newspaper editor and Rosalind Russell as Hildy Johnson, his ex-wife and former reporter for the newspaper. When he learns about her impending marriage, he schemes to get her back by asking her to cover one more story. With great chemistry between Grant and Russell, snappy repartee and "inside" remarks, it's not to be missed. The movie came in at #19 on the American Film Institute's (AFI) 100 Years ... One Hundred Laughs list in 2000.







It Happened One Night (1934)  - Directed by Frank Capra, starring Clark Gable and Claudette

Colbert -- need I say more? Colbert stars as a pampered socialite who elopes against her father's wishes. When she jumps ship in Florida, she boards a Greyhound bus bound for New York, where meets Peter, played by Clark Gable. Peter, a newspaper reporter, recognizes her and blackmails her to get her story. The film follows their adventures, until, you guessed it, they fall in love. Aww. You'll recognize many a device used in other movies and television shows: the blanket rolled up and placed down the middle of the bed; the shapely bare leg to attract passing cars. Despite a less than rousing start at the box office, the film went on to win five academy awards -- the first film to accomplish that feat.

Bringing Up Baby (1938) - This hair-brained comedy stars Cary Grant, as David Huxley, a nerdy paleontologist, and Katherine Hepburn as Susan Vance, an eccentric scatterbrained woman. The movie boasts a complicated cast of characters, but here's the Cliffs Notes version: it involves a Brontosaurus skeleton, a baby leopard, and a dognapped intercostal clavicle. Just like It Happened One Night, the movie didn't receive good reviews. But decades later, it remains a critical favorite screwball comedy.







The Philadelphia Story (December 1940) - This George Cukor film stars Cary Grant (are you

beginning to see a pattern here?), Katherine Hepburn, and Jimmy Stewart. Hepburn plays Tracy Lord, a divorced socialite, whose impending marriage runs into trouble when her ex-husband (played by Grant) returns and a tabloid magazine reporter (plaayed by Stewart) shows up for the scoop on her wedding. Madcap adventures soon follow, with perfectly-delivered lines from the all-star cast. The movie received 6 Oscar nominations, and walked away with two. It's also one of Rotten Tomatoes Top 100 Romantic Comedies of all time.

My Favorite Wife  (May 1940) - Cary Grant (yes, you've guessed it, I'm a huge fan of Cary Grant) and Irene Dunne star in this hilarious comedy about a shipwrecked Ellen Arden, played by Dunne, and her unwitting bigamist husband, Nick, played by Grant. Ellen had been missing 7 years and declared legally dead. She returns to find her husband off on his honeymoon with his new wife. Determined to track him down before his honeymoon night, Ellen confronts him. Unsure how to tell his new wife that Ellen has come back from the dead, Nick devises all manner of schemes to avoid the confrontation,. And the courtroom scene is priceless.

How about you? Do you have any classic romantic comedies that make your top 5 list?

Top 5 Favorite Modern Romantic Comedies

Last month I wrote about my top five most romantic real couples, fictional couples, and movies. Today, I thought I'd talk about my top five favorite modern romantic comedies. So what makes a romantic comedy one of my favorites you ask? Romcons that I can watch over and over and always sigh with pleasure at the end.

The Proposal (2009) - Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds (cu-tie pie!) turn up the heat and the

comic relief in this story about a pushy boss (Sandra Bullock) who essentially forces her assistant (Ryan Reynolds -- did I mention, yum?) to marry her so that she can keep her job with an American publishing house. In the spirit of famous comedic couples like Katherine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy, Bullock and Reynolds on-screen chemistry is charming and oh, so sexy. Especially that last kiss -- made my Hollywood's Hottest Kisses list.

Love Actually (2003) - This movie, with it's all-star cast, follows the stories of eight couples/friends during the course of the Christmas holidays. I love these sweet, sad, and silly vignettes, and who doesn't love Hugh Grant, Liam Neeson and Colin Firth (again, yum!)?  The movie is on my list of must-see holiday movies, along with other holiday favorites like It's a Wonderful Life.









Four Weddings and a Funeral (1994) - Another Hugh Grant film, which follows the stories of

Charles and Carrie (played by Andie MacDowell) who repeatedly bump into one another at four weddings (one of which is Carrie's) and a funeral. I'm fond of British humor, especially when it involves Hugh Grant, and this delightful film didn't disappoint.

Sweet Home Alabama (2002) - Starring Reese Witherspoon (Melanie) and Josh Dempsey (Jake) as an estranged married couple. When Melanie gets engaged, she has to convince Jake to sign the divorce papers before her fiance (Patrick Dempsey -- so many yums!) finds out she's still married. This sweet, light-hearted romance leaves me sighing wistfully every time. And that kiss on the beach! Well, it made my Hollywood's Hottest Kisses list. Need I say more?









Pretty Woman (1990) - Julie Roberts and Richard Gere -- could there be any two more beautiful

people? Sort of Pygmalion meets Rapunzel (referred to in the movie), the RomCon explores the relationship between a high-powered corporate raider (Edward) and a reluctant hooker (Vivian). In the end, Vivian holds out for "more" than being someone's mistress, and gets her fairytale when Edward realizes he can't live without her. Le sigh.

So, what Romcons make your list?

Top 5 Most Romantic Movies of All Time

Who doesn't love a great love story, whether we're reading it or watching it? I've been talking about "top five most romantic" lately, from real life couples to fictional couples. Now let's talk romantic movies. Here are my top five in no particular order.

Casablanca (1942) – This romantic drama, set during World War II, tells the story of embittered ex-patriot, Rick Blaine, and his former lover, Ilsa Lund. Rick, who owns an upscale club in Casablanca, finds his life is turned upside down when Ilsa and her husband Victor Laszlo, a renowned fugitive Czech Resistance leader walk into his club.

Laszlo and Ilsa are trying to escape to America so he can continue his work against the German occupation.

Rick and Ilsa rekindle their love affair, and Rick promises to help Laszlo escape while leading Ilsa to believe that she will stay behind with him. Rick finds he must choose between love and honor. In the end, Rick makes Ilsa escape with her husband, telling her she will regret it someday if she doesn’t, “Maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow, but soon and for the rest of your life."

Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergmann’s performance brings tears to my eyes every time I see it. No wonder it’s the American Film Institute’s (AFI) number one most passionate film of all time.

Shakespeare in Love (1998) – This delightful romantic comedy depicts a fictional love story

between the great playwright, William Shakespeare, played by Joseph Fiennes, and his muse, Viola de Lesseps, played by Gwyneth Paltrow. Rich with references to Shakespeare’s works, the film is amusing and the screenplay witty. Shakespeare is writing Romeo and Juliet at the time, but is suffering from writer’s block. Once he meets Viola, the words flow, the imagination soars and he finishes the play. Clearly, their secret love affair serves as the inspiration for Romeo and Juliet, especially since the lovers know their future is doomed. Shakespeare is married, and Viola is being sold off by her father to marry Lord Wessex (played by the yummy Colin Firth).

Viola marries Wessex, and Viola and Shakespeare part, resigned to their fates. The film ends with Shakespeare drafting the beginnings of Twelfth Night, Viola still his muse, as he imagines her washed up on the beach of a foreign land following a shipwreck, "For she will be my heroine for all time, and her name will be ... Viola.”

Pride and Prejudice (1995 BBC Production) – Of course you knew this had to make the list, since Elizabeth and Darcy is my number one most romantic couple of all times. With the 200th Anniversary of Pride and Prejudice last month, I celebrated the momentous occasion by watching for the umpteenth time my DVD of the mini-series. Jennifer Ehl and Colin Firth will, in my mind, always be the Elizabeth and Darcy.

Emma (1996) – This is my favorite depiction of Jane Austen’s sparkling romantic comedy destined

some 150 years later for the silver screen. The cast is marvelous, including the snotty Mr. Elton, played with perfection by Alan Cumming. Gwyneth Paltrow plays a vivacious, sharp-witted Emma to Jeremy Northam’s gentle Mr. Knightley.

The Ghost and Mrs. Muir (1947) – One of my mother’s favorite movies, I saw this the first time when I was a young girl, and have loved it ever since. A young widow, Lucy Muir, played by Gene Tierney, and her daughter, move into Gull Cottage, reputedly haunted by its former owner, sea captain Daniel Gregg, played by Rex Harrison. Gregg appears to her on her first night in the cottage. Lucy is not afraid of him and finds him handsome, in a harmlessly roguish sort of way. After Lucy’s income dries up, Gregg offers to dictate his life story to her for a book. Their connection grows during this time, and the ribald memoir becomes a bestseller.

In the meantime, she meets a real live man, Miles, and falls in love. After he proposes to her, Gregg decides to leave her to her life, telling her in her sleep that he was only a dream. She later learns that Miles is already married. She lives out her long life in peace in the cottage.

**Spoiler Alert** At the moment of her death, Captain Gregg appears. Reaching out, he lifts her young spirit free of her body and the two walk arm-in-arm out the front door and into the fog to spend all of eternity together. Gets me every time.

The Young Victoria (2009) ­– This beautifully crafted film starring Emily Blunt and Rupert Friend,

depicts the story of Queen Victoria, before she ascends the throne, through her early years as Queen, and her courtship and marriage of Prince Albert. If you read my June 11th blog post, you know the story of their great love affair, which is one of enduring passion, deep commitment, and touching remembrance.

Other romantic movies that deserve recognition include An Affair to Remember, Out of Africa, and Gone with the Wind.

Your turn. What are your favorite romantic movies?