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Wednesday, 21 May 2008
A birthday excerpt
Topic: Miscellaneous

Since today is my birthday, I thought I'd share with you an excerpt of my own book, Storm!!  I hope you enjoy it.  When finished, please click on the link to your left that takes you to further excerpts and a place to meet Jane, as well as other characters.  Of course, if you'd like to make my birthday extra special, each of you will buy a copy :-)

*****

Jane jumped to her feet and it appeared to Storm as though she were hugging the air.  What's going on?  Storm knew abused children sometimes had emotional breakdowns and he wondered if that was what he was witnessing.  Jane stepped back, still smiling, and once again looked as though she were listening.  She nodded her head one last time and watched the empty spot for a moment longer, then turned to Storm.  When she saw him, she ran over to him.

"Did you see him?"

"See who?  The crow?"

"No, the nice man.  He always visits me here."

Storm hadn't seen anyone, but the child seemed happier and he didn't want to ruin that.

"He makes me feel happy when he talks to me.  He won't hurt me like my daddy."

Storm had no clue as to how to respond.  Jane didn't seem to be waiting for an answer, however, so he kept quiet and listened to her talk.

"He used to come see me at my house, but then he helped me find this place.  He says Daddy is a bad man and I will be safe one day soon.  He says I can come live with him."

Storm found his voice.  "Do you know this man's name?"

"He says he has many, many names and I can call him anything I want."

"What do you call him?"

"He is my Special Friend.  He loves me and says my mommy will be at his house when I get to go live with him." 

The little girl turned and pointed at the tombstone she had been kneeling near, "This is where my mommy lives right now."


Posted by joyceanthony at 1:05 AM EDT
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Tuesday, 20 May 2008
Dyan Garris -- Making it Easy to Decide
Topic: Blog Tours

The past few days, you have had a chance to get to know Dyan Garris better and see some of the items in her "tool kit".  Dyan has made it a mission to help people grow and connect with their higher selves to achieve all they possibly can.  Her music and angel cards are only part of the picture.  Today I want to tell you about two very special baskets Dyan Garris has assembled to help you achieve  your meditation or relaxation goals.  Whether you want to pamper a special friend or yourself, you will want to check these out :-)

The Meditation Basket is a beautiful, reusable 10" lined basket. It contains all six soul-soothing New Age music CDs in the series of music and guided meditation for Automatic Chakra Balance,TM relaxation, healing, and vibrational attunement of mind, body, and spirit, by Dyan Garris. The CDs included are A Healing Journey-The Voice of the Angels, Moment by Moment-Music for the Soul, Reflection, Patterns, Illusions, and Connections. The basket comes with an angelic scroll of healing affirmations, authentic and powerful Tibetan meditation crystal, high quality incense and holder, and a clean burning, heavenly smelling, Reiki charged meditation candle in its own jar, with its own special affirmation. Beginner to experienced meditator will find the "Journeys" on the last track of each CD healing and refreshing! Please choose the flavor of candle and bath salts from the drop down menus. You can also add things to your basket, by making your choices in the drop down menu below. There is no additional shipping charge for items that you add.

The Relaxation Basket is a colorful, reusable 6 inch lined basket. It contains your choice of one music CD, Release or Spiritus Sanctus Volume 1 or 2.
Also included is an angelic scroll of healing affirmations, heavenly smelling, clean burning, Reiki charged relaxation candle (soy) in a jar with its own angelic healing affirmation & a two ounce tin of 100% Dead Sea Bath Salts.

I wish we would have had more time to explore the other items Dyan Garris has to offer.  Her knowledge and talent is incredible.  Stop by the chat tonight to discuss chakras with Dyan and don't forget her tele-class.

Each person who posts a comment on any or all of the blog tour spots will be entered in a random drawing for a copy of Dyan Garris’ CD – Release. In addition – the blog owner that hosted the winning commenter will also win a free copy of Release. Share your thoughts and comments with Dyan. She will check in throughout the day to answer questions. You’ll learn more and you have a chance to win a CD.
Dyan is offering a FREE teleclass for anyone who has read Money and Manifesting - if you haven't already read the book, visit Dyan's website to order a copy - www.voiceoftheangels.com. For full details about the class, visit this page  http://virtualblogtour.blogspot.com/2008/05/begin-your-personal-healing-journey.html

Her website is full of great details about all of the items within her “toolbox” and there are many special features. She provides the tools you need to have a full and happy life – http://www.voiceoftheangels.com/ and it’s not as hard to achieve as you think. Visit Dyan’s Amazon profile for links to many of her products - http://www.amazon.com/gp/pdp/profile/AYREZNHQDLRFM/


Posted by joyceanthony at 1:42 AM EDT
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Monday, 19 May 2008
Dyan Garris and Angel Cards
Topic: Blog Tours

**Note to readers:  Come on guys, over 400 of you stopped by to visit yesterday--I KNOW you have something to say :-)  How about we drop Dyan a comment?  Don't forget, some lucky winner will receive a copy of her latest CD--and I guarantee it is destined to become a favorite :-)**

I want to introduce you to one of my favorite items in Dyan Garris' toolbox--her Angel Cards.  Dyan describes these as:

"Voice of the Angels - A Healing Journey Spiritual Cards. You will find these cards uncannily accurate in answering your questions. The cards were hand illustrated and originally made with crystals and other natural elements. Each card has a message from the angels. The angels speak to you in quatrain verse. Each card is a scene from A Healing Journey Guided Fantasy found on track seven of Voice of the Angels - A Healing Journey CD . This is the companion CD and the first CD in the series of six CDs for Automatic Chakra Balance,™ stress release, help in sleeping, relaxation, and vibrational attunement of mind, body, and spirit. These cards are very different from similar cards, as you will soon discover"

The artwork on these cards is beautiful!!  I stopped by Dyan's site and had a free reading done (stop here for yours-- http://www.voiceoftheangels.com/freereading.html ) and was amazed at the accuracy.  These readings are available in English, Spanish and Russian!!

There is also a journal that you can get that helps you keep track of your angel card readings.  Take time looking around while you are there and discover some of the other items available in this wonderful Toolbox.

Don't forget the chat on chakras Tuesday evening at 8 PM EST.  Just go to http://pub29.bravenet.com/chat/show.php/2488831080 and sign in. 

In addition, don't forget to sign up for Dyan's free teleclass (details below) and leave a comment for your chance to win a CD (details on that below also!!

***

 

Each person who posts a comment on any or all of the blog tour spots will be entered in a random drawing for a copy of Dyan Garris’ CD – Release. In addition – the blog owner that hosted the winning commenter will also win a free copy of Release. Share your thoughts and comments with Dyan. She will check in throughout the day to answer questions. You’ll learn more and you have a chance to win a CD.
Dyan is offering a FREE teleclass for anyone who has read Money and Manifesting - if you haven't already read the book, visit Dyan's website to order a copy - www.voiceoftheangels.com. For full details about the class, visit this page  http://virtualblogtour.blogspot.com/2008/05/begin-your-personal-healing-journey.html

Her website is full of great details about all of the items within her “toolbox” and there are many special features. She provides the tools you need to have a full and happy life – http://www.voiceoftheangels.com/ and it’s not as hard to achieve as you think. Visit Dyan’s Amazon profile for links to many of her products - http://www.amazon.com/gp/pdp/profile/AYREZNHQDLRFM/


Posted by joyceanthony at 1:06 AM EDT
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Sunday, 18 May 2008

Today I have a wonderful treat for you guys.  Dyan Garris writes and performs some wonderful music.  Is this music inspired by angels, listen and you decide :-)

From Sanctus CD

Dyan offers a series of CDs for Automatic Chakra Balance™. Each of the six CDs in the series is available separately, or together as a set in the Meditation Basket. Each CD vibrates to different chakra and each CD is for a specific purpose. Each CD will however, balance all of your chakras automatically and will help you unblock what is in your way. Each CD in the series consists of six or seven tracks of instrumental music plus a guided meditation on the last track."The song "Illusions" was recently #1 on Music Choice's Soundscapes cable TV music channel."

This in only the beginning of Dyan's lovely music--in all, she has recorded eleven CDs.  The music is intented to relax the body and mind, refresh the soul and clear the chakras.  Dyan Garris has definitely achieved all this and more.

Each person who posts a comment on any or all of the blog tour spots will be entered in a random drawing for a copy of Dyan Garris’ CD – Release. In addition – the blog owner that hosted the winning commenter will also win a free copy of Release. Share your thoughts and comments with Dyan. She will check in throughout the day to answer questions. You’ll learn more and you have a chance to win a CD.
Dyan is offering a FREE teleclass for anyone who has read Money and Manifesting - if you haven't already read the book, visit Dyan's website to order a copy - www.voiceoftheangels.com. For full details about the class, visit this page  http://virtualblogtour.blogspot.com/2008/05/begin-your-personal-healing-journey.html

Her website is full of great details about all of the items within her “toolbox” and there are many special features. She provides the tools you need to have a full and happy life – http://www.voiceoftheangels.com/ and it’s not as hard to achieve as you think. Visit Dyan’s Amazon profile for links to many of her products - http://www.amazon.com/gp/pdp/profile/AYREZNHQDLRFM/


Posted by joyceanthony at 2:59 AM EDT
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Saturday, 17 May 2008
Dyan Garris--A Woman of Many Talents
Topic: Blog Tours

I have the wonderful pleasure of once again visiting with Dyan Garris for the next few days.  She is going to give us a peek into the many wonderful tools she has to offer those of us seeking to make our lives better and happier.

Below you will find a bio of Dyan that includes links to many of her projects.  She dropped by to speak to us and I will be sharing what she had to say. 

Tomorrow, Dyan has agreed to allow us to hear a sample of the wonderful music she writes and performs.  Later this week, we will explore her Angel cards and, on Tuesday, Dyan will honor us with a live chat in which she discusses chakras--this is a must attend chat! 

Please be sure to read through to the end of this post for your chabce to win a copy of Dyan Garris' CD, which is a wonderful addition to any music library.  Enjoy our visit with Dyan Garris :-)

**Meet Dyan Garris**

For many years Dyan Garris has been counseling clients in order to help them move forward in their lives. She is clairvoyant, clairaudient, and clairsentient. In addition, Dyan is also what is known as a voice recognition psychic and trance channel. This means that she can help her clients via telephone, which is how she conducted her readings throughout her career.

Dyan is the author, developer and artist of Voice of the Angels - A Healing Journey Spiritual Cards. This is a thirty card deck of angel cards based upon scenes from A Healing Journey Guided Fantasy.  Each hand illustrated card has its own channeled message in rhythmic quatrain verse from the angels.  Free angel card readings are available on her main website. A journal is available separately as an integrative tool for use with the cards and a meditation journal is available for use with the CDs.

Dyan writes the Daily Channeled Message which posts on her website. Recently she authored The Book of Daily Channeled Messages which is a compilation of inspirational angelic messages to be used for daily guidance or as a bibliomancy tool.

Her book Voice of the Angels Cookbook - Talk To Your Food! Intuitive Cooking is an adventure in opening one's creative centers and communicating with your food so it can transform from raw ingredients into what truly nourishes you on every level.

In 2005 she created a CD series of instrumental music and meditation for Automatic Chakra BalanceTM, self-healing, relaxation, and vibrational attunement of mind, body, and spirit. Each CD is available separately, as well as together in a gift basket, and contains several tracks of relaxation music plus a guided meditation on the last track. The CDs have earned the National Health & Wellness Stamp of Approval.

Her new CD of instrumental relaxation music "Release" was released in late September 2007. Dyan's music can be heard nationally and internationally on numerous radio stations. "Release" recently charted at #3 on Music Choice's cable TV music channel Soundscapes and is currently nominated for New Age Reporter's "Best Relaxation/Meditation Album of the Year" and "Best Cover Art." "Illusions" recently charted at #1.

 She is a frequent radio guest on the Jay Grayce show at Tribeca Radio in New York City and has been interviewed by numerous other radio hosts.  Recently, Mystic Pop Magazine interviewed her for their January/February issue. Living In Style TV featured her products in their 2007 holiday show.

Dyan Garris is the author of Voice of the Angels Spiritual Cards, The Book of Daily Channeled Messages, Talk To Your Food! Intuitive Cooking, and Fish Tale of Woe - Lost at Sea. In 2005 she created a series of music and meditation CDs for healing, Automatic Chakra Balance,TM and vibrational attunement of mind, body, and spirit.

**A few words from Dyan Garris**

Flash

by Dyan Garris

Flashback circa 1993. Like Merlin in his crystal cave, I am surrounded by shimmering multi-colored faceted crystal as I sit at my desk designing a piece of jewelry. The sunlight flows in like liquid gold from the window, plays on the sparkling gemstones, and sends the gift of radiant rainbows all around me. I am surrounded and give up. It is awesome beauty and the magic of the universe at its finest. I breathe it in deeply.

As I am bathed in this pure magnificence, I hear, feel, and sense a presence. This is nothing new or frightening to me, as I am a clairvoyant. I listen quietly as many voices converge into one and these too, I breathe in. I remain still because I know that in the center of that silence is the Truth. I am being asked to write something down. I step over to the computer and begin to write what is soon flowing as smoothly as honey.

I am writing a "journey." It's a healing journey. We begin on an island and we pass through several colorful doors and cross a bridge.  There is a beautiful blue river and a raft that has no oars. We put the raft in the water, climb in, and float trustingly, since we cannot control where we are going. I feel as if I have visited this place somewhere in time. It feels that real. We play in the waterfall of rainbows, meet the friendly dolphins and receive a gift from them. We leave our troubles in the peaceful clearing and we encounter our guardian angels. The sheer beauty of the journey almost brings me to tears. We look into the mirror and receive answers to our deepest and most puzzling questions. We connect with the light; and when we emerge from this peaceful journey, we return with our whole selves. Yes, I think I have been to this place. It's as if I'm remembering and bringing that imagery back here.

Flash forward to the present moment. "A Healing Journey" was the beginning and foundation of my current body of work. From that healing journey evolved a deck of angel cards, Each card has its own message from angels in rhythmic quatrain verse and each card is based on a scene from that journey. Then eventually one by one came all of the other tools in the toolbox that I'm almost done building. Six music and meditation CDs for chakra balance and for relaxation and connection to inner wisdom evolved in 2005 and 2006. Words and music flowed like manna from heaven. In 2007 my CD "Release" was born. It is eleven tracks of relaxation music for the purposes of releasing whatever is stuck and keeps one from moving forward on the path. Each CD vibrates progressively higher and "Release" vibrates to the seventh chakra.

Along the path came a journal to use with the cards and one to use with the CDs. And then came other books, each also vibrating progressively higher. At the top of this is "Money and Manifesting," which teaches people how to unblock their core energy for manifesting. There are two more items that go into the toolbox and very soon it will be a complete system that people can use for spiritual growth and transformation.  

As I created this healing journey out of one rainbow filled moment, I lived it in every sense of the word. I pondered many times what it all really meant. I contemplated the bigger picture. In that process I came to have in my possession several keys, which I now share with you.  In order to be truly happy and in order to really manifest anything, one must move everything out of their way that blocks their path; and one must learn to align one's will with universal will. This is what gives us the ability to co-create with the truth of our spirits, rather than demand, like petulant children, that things show up in our lives just because we want them. Our lifetimes here are like a flash in a moment of time. Live like the shining light that you are. Everything here is a learning process, a process of remembering, a process that brings us full circle. It all truly is a healing journey.            

**A chance to win and a special class**

Each person who posts a comment on any or all of the blog tour spots will be entered in a random drawing for a copy of Dyan Garris’ CD – Release. In addition – the blog owner that hosted the winning commenter will also win a free copy of Release. Share your thoughts and comments with Dyan. She will check in throughout the day to answer questions. You’ll learn more and you have a chance to win a CD.
Dyan is offering a FREE teleclass for anyone who has read Money and Manifesting - if you haven't already read the book, visit Dyan's website to order a copy - www.voiceoftheangels.com. For full details about the class, visit this page  http://virtualblogtour.blogspot.com/2008/05/begin-your-personal-healing-journey.html

Her website is full of great details about all of the items within her “toolbox” and there are many special features. She provides the tools you need to have a full and happy life – http://www.voiceoftheangels.com/ and it’s not as hard to achieve as you think. Visit Dyan’s Amazon profile for links to many of her products - http://www.amazon.com/gp/pdp/profile/AYREZNHQDLRFM/


Posted by joyceanthony at 9:07 AM EDT
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Friday, 16 May 2008
If Only by Celia Cooper--A Review

http://www.wingsepress.com/CeliaCooper

We all have them...those "if only" events that we let pass us by and realize too late how much we'd miss them.  Can we go back?  Is it possible to regain what we allowed to slip through our fingers?

Celia Cooper answers these questions in her latest romance novel, If Only. The warm shores of Tampa, Florida, is the setting of this romantic adventure.  Celia Cooper deftly weaves several sub-plots together, creating a world we all dream of--the chance to undo what was once done.

 This isn't your typical boy-meets-girl romance.  Instead, it twists and turns in the most delicious ways, creating a need to continue reading to see how things will turn out. 

Ms. Cooper's characters are so life-like you will swear you know someone just like them.  It is obvious that she has studied the subtle nuances of human behavior and weaves these into a cast aof characters that will have you cheering them on, hoping for a happy ending. 

Is the ending a happy one?  Can Steven and Barbara return to a love they shared twenty-five years ago and make it work this time?  You'll have to read If Only tp discover the answers to these questions but I will tell you this--when you finish If Only you will look forward with great anticipation to the next creation that is painted with Celia Cooper's pen.


Posted by joyceanthony at 5:04 AM EDT
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Thursday, 15 May 2008
Talking With Celia Cooper
Topic: Author Interview

 

 

Celia Cooper the person:

1.   What three words do you think describe you as a human being?

Loyal, passionate and artistic

2.   How do you think others would describe you?

Reliable, loving, talented

3.   Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing.

 The ecology of my desert. People see it as a wasteland of sand and wind. I see the squirrels, chipmunks, eagles, kangaroo rats, rabbits, and yes, even snakes and coyotes that make this land teem with life. The Yucca draconis commonly known as the Joshua tree grows in only two places in the world: Israel and the Mojave Desert. All these **** developers who think this is a wasteland waiting for them to slap up poorly made, overpriced, elbow-to-elbow ticky tac housing projects to be filled with people the judicial system dumps here from the Los Angeles basin have people like myself with which to deal.

In the five years since I moved back, hundreds of acres have been lost to developers who have little respect for the life of the desert. The sad reality is that when it is gone-there is no recovery. Unfortunately, the people who should be taking action on this can't make themselves see past the bottom line.

Okay. Taking down the soapbox.

4.  Do you have any pets?  If so, introduce us to them.

 I have a cat named Sancha. She is 16 years old, very spoiled and referred to as a "tuxedo" kitty. Her overall color is black, but she has a white chest, paws, and snout, and looks as if she is wearing a tuxedo-hence the name.

5.  What is your most precious memory?

 I have two very important memories. When I meet the man who is my husband, we both had been battered a bit by life so when he wanted me to meet his dad, I was a bit wary. He'd just lost his mom and his father was the litmus test of whether I was keeper or not. His parents were divorced and his dad had remarried so I was going to be "tested" by Dad and stepmom. When we arrived at their home ( I was very uncomfortable as the home was extraordinarily beautiful, big and furnished with antiques), it took all of 30 minutes for me to fall in love with my future father-in-law and his wife.

The memory is of 6 years later. My husband and I moved back from paradise (lived in Hawaii, Oahu, for 2 ½ years) when we learned my father-in-law was terminally ill. We didn't know how long he had but we were going to spend the time being close. As the end came near, this sinewy, athletic man was reduced to a bed and breathing tube by his body but his mind was razor sharp.

I had been persistent enough (read nagging) to get my husband to go back to school to get his GED. Of the 4 boys in the family, only 1 had graduated from high school. When we brought the document to the nursing home and showed my father-in-law. It was a red-letter day in that he had been taken off the breathing tube and could speak clearly again and my husband had passed his GED. Disagreements of nearly two decades fell by the wayside. My father-in-law's eyes shone with pride.

My mother-in-law and I "took a walk" to let the two talk.

The second, most personal, moment was December 18, 2005. After a day in her art studio, my mom had noted she was going to lie on her lounge chair and take a nap. As my husband and I had been visiting and were on our way out, anyway, I leaned down and kissed her lightly on the cheek telling her I loved her. She smiled and put her hand on my cheek and told me she loved me.

Four days later, she was hit and killed crossing the street to go to choir practice at her church. When I get to missing her, I think of that moment. I'm glad I got to tell her I loved her.

6.  What is your most embarrassing memory?

To the best of my recollection-I had gone out after work and had one, no about five, too many without eating. I proceeded to throw up on the street in front of the Marriott Downtown in Portland, Oregon. Thankfully, my co-workers were discreet enough not to say anything. I was going through a very difficult period in my life and I think they understood.

7.  If you weren't a writer, what would you be doing with your life?

Working to make ends meet and pursuing the art of Middle Eastern dance. I started taking lessons on a dare to myself as I'm waaay too many pounds over my healthful weight. I knew I couldn't handle ballet or tap and wanted something that would celebrate the art of dance. I was a little hesitant, what with the preconceived notion I harbored, but having done some hula, I liked the flow of the dance. I've been able to isolate the movement of my individual body parts all my life.

Taking Middle Eastern dance, I learned several things-most countries in the Middle East celebrate women with meat on their bones, and the truth of "belly dancing" is that the moves were designed to assist a woman through labor (the original dance).

In the Middle East, men dance with men and women dance with women. It has to do with custom and faith. Professional belly dancers are for the tourists. It is a fascinating artform that celebrates the being not the body. 

8.  In two paragraphs or less write your obituary.

 Christie L. Kraemer, writing as Celia Cooper, spent a lifetime experiencing the world. She traveled the country learning new customs and appreciation for new places. Finding her "soul mate" later in life, they continued the journey. She discovered her muse later than most but once the floodgates opened, she was a prolific writer leaving a legacy of fantasy, romance, and mystery books. Fortunate enough to have her very first novel published, she continued the family tradition of paying forward by mentoring those who wanted to write but needed a little push. She gave seminars to help others traverse the publishing maze and encouraged all.

She was proceeded in death by her husband of 60 years, Lawrence, and leaves behind a brother, Gordon Cooper, a sister, Shawneen Staley and her husband Jim; 3 nieces and 3 nephews, numerous grandnieces and grandnephews, and too many friends to list.

Celia Cooper the writer:

9.  Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a "real" writer?

When I had entered a contest on the Diet Coke website- "Living life to the fullest"- and put together a story of 750 words. I sent it off and promptly forgot it as the contest was international, and I figured my chances were slim-to-none.

I had written a piece for my father-in-law, bed bound by a terminal illness after a life of activity, where he was able to get up, take a shower by himself, cook breakfast and take a walk with his cherished dog.

I was at my state accounting job and my husband phoned. He got off earlier than I and worked at the apartment complex where we lived. He told me we had this large envelope from New York addressed to me. My first response was "Who's suing us?" After a minute or two of baiting, I told him to open the envelope. He read the letter aloud to me and it was then I realized I was a "real" writer.

My story had been selected as one of 25 finalists out of approximately 700 entries. While I wasn't the big winner who went to New York and pitched a book idea to publishers, I felt pretty good about my writing. One of the reasons was the judges used by the contest: Maeve Binchy, Barbara Taylor Bradford, Jack Canfield and Mark Hansen, Mark & Chrissy Donnally, Elmore Leonard, Nora Roberts, and Lisa Scottoline.

The public relations house sent us guidelines on doing TV interviews and, in a conference call, told us that the judges kept coming back to our 25 stories; it was the push I needed to open the door to the possibilities of writing.

10.  What is going on with your writing these days?

Unfortunately, making ends meet to pay bills has taken the forefront in my life, but I try to get tukus in chair and write at least one page a day.

I have a story published under my C.L. Kraemer name involving a reverse Sleeping Beauty premise with dragons. My husband was so thrilled with it (he doesn't read much on his own. His ADD puts a damper on long novels with intricate plotlines.), he asked me to expand the story. Well, one novel became three and I promised him this last Christmas that I would finish the novel before Christmas.

As I have a mystery book coming out in December that I'll need to start publicity in November, I have until October to finish this book. Throw in my stepson's wedding/our vacation in August and I need to be putting tukus to chair more often.

Someone suggested, after reading a portion of the first book in the trilogy that I start with the middle book, which I had been working on slowly, because the middle book takes place now. Consequently, the first book that will be published (fingers crossed here) will be the middle of the trilogy. Then I'll finish the prequel and continue on to the sequel.

11.  What are your future goals for your writing?

 I have a dozen startups that I want to finish. I have a romance oriented family trilogy and numerous fantasy-sci-fi stories waiting to be written. They all lurk in the back of my mind and occasionally come out in a dream to haunt me. 

12.  Can you describe a typical writing day for you?

I get up fairly late because I work swing shift at the newspaper and don't get home until 12:30 a.m. Like most, I'm wide awake and going to bed is not an option. If I'm being good, I'll sit and write for a couple hours. If things are normal, I'll do reading or copy editing for the publishing house where I work.

In the morning, I get up do housework, laundry, yardwork or walk then I come in and sit down for an hour or so and try to put hands to keyboard. If I find my muse is being lazy or doesn't want to come out and play, I'll go practice on my drumset to get the juices flowing.

13.  Why do you write?

Because I can't not write. I realize that's a typical writer answer but there it is. Even if I was never to be published again, I would write. Now that I've found my passion, I revel in the feel of words to paper, characters that talk back to me and the amazement of sitting and reading something I've done and thinking, "Did I do that?"

14.   What writer most inspires you?  Why?

I must say I'm fascinated by the work of Dame Agatha Christie, and not because I suspect this is whom my mother named me after. Her work was lush and precise. She wound the reader through the story with deft expertise and, yet, sprinkled the clues in places so obvious that when she revealed the killer, you smacked yourself on the head and said, "Uh, I should have known!" She is one of the few writers I will reread. My memory, as of now, is very good and usually after the first paragraph or two of a book that I think I may have read, I'll know. If I've read it, I'll remember the ending.

Another is Mercedes Lackey. She creates fantasy worlds with such vividness the reader feels transported and doesn't doubt the laws of physics at all. (What we're supposed to do, isn't it?) Her stories have inspired me to write in the dragon genre even though it seems flooded.

15.  How do you define your writing?

 I don't like being defined, per se, witness my eclectic, gypsy life, but would say I write about real people in unusual situations. Not often you run into a dragon when you go camping in your favorite forest. My romance novels are about the guys and gals next door-a little older-but what many of us have become. For example, If Only is phrase everybody says but becomes more pronounced as you age...if only I would've married this guy instead of that one, if only I would've taken that promotion instead of moving to(you fill in the blank), if only I could go back and do it again...See what I mean? It becomes a mantra to many people.

My fantasy stories are crafted with, hopefully, my own twist on things. I'm a bit...different. My mind has a tendency to tweek situations. Phrases will induce an idea for a book. It usually begins with "what would happen if..." From that point, I'm usually scrambling to find something to write on if I haven't brought my notebook with me.

16.  In one sentence-what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

 I love her writing. When I found out she had other books, I bought them all. They have a special place in my library. She made me forget where I was for a while. She writes a good story.

Celia Cooper the details:

17.  Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website?  Blog?

I can be found at www.WingsePress.com  . Look under authors for Celia Cooper (careful-there is a Janet Cooper, I'm Celia) and my website at www.celiacooper.freeservers.com .

18.  Is there a place where readers can reach you?

I can be reached through my email but it is necessary to note in the subject line this is a reader question regarding for Celia Cooper or C. L. Kraemer, otherwise, I'll delete. Celia.cooper1@gmail.com

19.  Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

Under the name ;C. L. Kraemer:

Cyre Drake, in the anthology, Enchanted Realms II from Xlibris;                    

Cats in the Cradle of Civilization from Wings ePress, Inc.

From Celia Cooper: (All from Wings ePress, Inc.)

Old Enough to Know Better (January 2003);

Sun in Sagittarius, Moon in Mazatlan(June 2005);

If Only (April 2008)

20.  For new readers-what can they expect when they read your book(s)?

 Characters that will make you think of a next-door neighbor, details that help you visualize but don't take away your ability to create your own backdrop; and, most importantly, a good story well told. When my stories become hackneyed, I'll take up rock n' roll drumming for the Stones.

In conclusion:

21.  Take as much space as necessary to speak to our readers-what would you like them to know about you and your writing?

I was privileged to have a mother who emphasized reading above all. I grew up as the daughter of career marine and we traveled over the country. Money was tight and TV was in its infancy - there were only 1 ½ stations available to us through the antennae where we lived when I was a kid. My mom introduced us to the world of the library and helped me to escape reality through the written word.

I hope that my writing gives people pleasure and let's them "escape" for the time it takes to read my books. I would encourage them to read, not only my books but many different types of books. The act of reading makes a person slow down and take the time to breathe (unless you're reading Stephen King!). We all move too fast.

I will write until I can no longer move my fingers or speak into a microphone. I can only hope my books will maintain a high level of quality and entertainment.

And yes, I do put on my plus size jeans one leg at a time.

 


Posted by joyceanthony at 9:50 AM EDT
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Wednesday, 14 May 2008
If Only--An Excerpt

The blonde woman stopped before Barbara, tossing a fearful look in Rachel's direction, before reaching out, and gently lifting Barbara's hand to her, palm up, and peered at the opened extremity. She raised a bejeweled, ruby tipped finger and traced the lifeline. Her dark brown eyes peered deeply into Barbara's.

          "You have recently suffered a great personal loss."

          Rachel harrumphed behind Barbara.

          Ignoring Rachel, she continued. "You have come home seeking a glimpse of the past to answer questions of old. You will have to make a decision between two—brothers?—which will change your living arrangements as well as your life…"

          Before she could continue, Rachel grabbed Barbara's elbow and propelled her toward the front door, muttering under her breath, "Any fool can see the white circle where your wedding ring used to be and, of course, you're seeking something. You came into this bloody shop. What a fraud."

          The blonde turned and softly called to the retreating backs of the two friends, "By the way, Dylan says you are headed in the right direction, and he wants to thank you. Now he can rest."

          Barbara planted her feet to the floor. She whirled, and, grasping her throat, whispered, "Dylan?"

          The blonde approached warily, glancing at the furious face of Rachel looking over the head of her friend.

          "Yes. He said you," she pointed at Rachel, "would not believe me, but he was finding it difficult to get a message through to you. Barbara, he wanted very much for you to know the quest you have taken is the first step to setting him free. He knew he was your second choice."

          Barbara gasped, tears welling in her eyes. "He never said a thing."

          "He told me to thank you for all the years of love you gave to him and says he wants you to find your first love who now searches himself."

 

For More information on Celia Cooper, please visit her site at:

http://www.celiacooper.freeservers.com/

 

and should you be ready to pick up a copy of If Only hop on over to http://www.wingsepress.com/CeliaCooper and grab one :-)


Posted by joyceanthony at 4:55 AM EDT
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Tuesday, 13 May 2008
Visiting with Celia Cooper
Topic: Blog Tours

For the next few days, we will be visiting with author Celia Cooper.  We will talk with Celia and get to know her a bit better and you'll get a chance to read an excerpt from If Only.  We'll top off the visit with my review of the book on Friday.  Stop by often and drop Celia a comment :-)

Author's Bio: Celia Cooper has been a gypsy all her life. From her military child beginnings to her might-not-get-this-chance-again attitude after she left home, she's seen most of the continental United States as well as Hawaii and Alaska. She hopes to travel the world but is content to stay close to her family in the Southern California desert—for the moment.

Old Enough to Know Better and Sun in Sagittarius, Moon in Mazatlan were gifts from the writing , gods. Her current novelIf Only, explores the wistful saying everyone has said at one point or another in their lives and scratches a persistent itch.

She is currently working on a dragon trilogy and several short stories.


Posted by joyceanthony at 2:00 AM EDT
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Monday, 12 May 2008
Pampa by Janet Elaine Smith
Topic: First Chapter

I have a treat for you guys today--the first chapter of Janet Elaine Smith's novel, Pampas.  This book is available in both English and Spanish.  If you would like to see the Spanish version of Chapter 1 posted, leave me a comment and I shall see what I can do :-) For information on where you can find Pampas and the rest of Janet's books, please visit her website at

http://janet_elaine_smith0.tripod.com/

PAMPAS

(In English)

Señor Raul Escobar. A handsome gaucho, who came to Argentina to lose his past, suddenly becomes the richest man in Argentina after he inherits the huge ranch of Señor Pancho Mendoza upon his death. His devotion to his benefactor is beyond question, but his life and the mysterious way he appeared at the ranch several years earlier is definitely suspect.

Samantha Leota Manchester. A spoiled rich girl, trained as an archaeologist, shows up for Señor Mendoza's funeral, on the arm of the American Ambassador. She asks for permission to "dig" on the land. Her grandmother revealed a secret, on her deathbed, that has sent "Sam" scurrying to try to find the hidden secrets of her past, which she wants to uncover, as much as Raul wants to bury his.

Doña Helena. The faithful housekeeper of Pancho Mendoza, who inherits the large house itself, but there is one string attached: Raul cannot move into the house unless he marries. Doña Helena, who tries to keep peace on the ranch, learns of Sam's secret, and eventually those of Raul as well.

Can these two people, so different, possibly keep from killing each other in their quest to reveal-and to hide-their pasts?

PAMPAS is filled with love, hate, intrigue, secrets, and loads of laughs. Even "the godfathers" get into the picture.

 

**

PAMPAS

Chapter One

The tall, dark-haired stranger knocked on the door of the large hacienda. The house looked like an old southern mansion you might see in Gone With the Wind. It was early in the morning, but the man knew that life on the estancia, one of the huge Argentine ranches, began at the crack of dawn. He hoped to find the owner of the ranch at the house, before he left to make his daily rounds over the acres of land he controlled.

Opening the door, Doña Helena stood, wiping her hands on her apron. There was a smudge of flour on her face, and the man smiled as he saw it. Her appearance was meticulous; the blemish was definitely out of character.

"Is something wrong, señor?" she asked. "Why do you smile so?"

Not wanting to admit the truth, re replied, "It is because of your charm and beauty." He continued, "I would like to talk to the owner of the estancia, please. Is he in?"

Smiling sheepishly, as a young schoolgirl might, Doña Helena answered, "Yes, señor, he is in, but he is eating his breakfast right now. I do not like to disturb him, at least not until he has had his coffee." Doña Helena noted the disappointment on the man's face and added, "But you may come in and wait for him, if you like."

He accepted the invitation graciously and sat on a hard, straight-backed chair in preference to the lovely brocaded sofa Doña Helena indicated.

Doña Helena disappeared from the room, and the man sat, nervously twirling his large black hat, which was so typical of the gauchos. Although he appeared to be a gaucho-one of the wandering cowboys of the Pampas which stretched for 250,000 miles across Argentina-his speech betrayed him. He spoke with a strange accent.

Doña Helena told Pancho Mendoza, the owner of the ranch, of the stranger at the door.

"He probably wants work," Señor Mendoza said knowingly. "Everyone who comes wants work. Some day I will run out of land and out of work. Then what will they all do?"

Doña Helena joined him in laughter. The idea of Señor Mendoza running out of land was the most absurd thing she could imagine. He owned more than seventy thousand acres of ranch land, and it was continually growing.

As soon as he finished his meal, Señor Mendoza entered the huge living room where the man was seated.

"Doña Helena tells me you would like to speak to me," he said. ":How may I serve you?"

"It is I who would like to assist you, señor," the stranger replied. "I am a good, hard worker, and I would greatly appreciate the privilege of serving you on your estancia, Señor."

Señor Mendoza studied the man carefully. His dress was that of the gauchos. He had the same thick, black, wavy hair of the gauchos. He wore the traditional black mustache, which was almost a ritual among the gauchos. But there was a slight Italian accent to his speech, although his Spanish was as fluent as if it was his native tongue.

"Where have you worked before?" Señor Mendoza asked him.

"On many estancias," he replied. "Many of them far from here." Wishing to avoid too many questions, he added quickly, "But your reputation goes throughout the land of Argentina. You have the finest ranch in the country. It is my dream to work on your ranch, Señor Mendoza."

"Aha! A man after my own heart!" Señor Mendoza said with a laugh. "You know a good man when you see one! Flattery will get you everywhere!" he misquoted. "I will take you to meet the other men. I was just about to leave on rounds. Come along; we will get going before you get any later. I demand high quality work from my employees."

"Do you mean I am hired?" he inquired. Seeing the nod of the owner's head, he threw his hat high in the air and jumped up, clicking his heels together.

"Yippee!" he shouted.

Shaking his head in disbelief, Señor Mendoza said, "Of all the gauchos I have seen and hired, you have to be the strangest. You speak Spanish, but with an Italian accent, and you shout in English-like a Yankee. What is your name?"

"Raul Escobar," he said, extending his hand to shake Señor Mendoza's hand. "Pleased to make your acquaintance."

* * *

It seemed as if that had been a century ago, yet only five years had passed since Raul had appeared at the huge estancia. Now Señor Mendoza was dying.

Raul had been out on the pasture land checking on the sheep when the sound of hoofbeats echoed on the ground beneath him. The horse was going so fast, it instantly spelled trouble to Raul. Turning to meet the visitor as soon as possible, Raul rode his horse even faster towards the sound of the one approaching him.

"Raul! Come quickly! It is Señor Mendoza!" It was Doña Helena. Her face was pale, in spite of the hot sun which was pouring down on her.

"What is it?" Raul asked anxiously. Doña Helena turned her horse around, and they raced together towards the hacienda, not losing a second of the precious time.

"It is Señor Mendoza," she repeated as they rode. "Something has happened to him! I think he has had a heart attack!"

They rode together in silence, both praying and hoping against all hope that the man they both had grown to love so much would be there to greet them as he had been so many times before.

Hurriedly, they dismounted their horses and dashed for the open door. Señor Mendoza was lying on the floor, his head propped on the hand embroidered silk pillow, just as Doña Helena had left him. Raul tried to administer mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, but it was of no help. His pulse was extremely weak; the color had drained from his skin; he did not speak.

"Hurry!" he instructed Doña Helena. "Call Dr. Peréz. Tell him to get over here right away."

Doña Helena went immediately to the phone, and taking a small black book from the drawer on the table on which the phone was sitting, turned quickly to the doctor's name and phone number. She had almost completed dialing the number before the receiver reached her ear.

"Hello? Dr. Peréz? This is Doña Helena at the estancia of Señor Mendoza." She did not hesitate for him to say anything in response. "I think Señor Mendoza has had a heart attack. Will you please come to the hacienda right away? Please hurry!"

Replacing the phone in the cradle, Doña Helena turned to Raul. "He is on his way, but it will take almost an hour before he can get here."

Doña Helena went to Señor Mendoza and knelt on the other side of him. The worry and concern showed on both of their faces.

"You love him, too, don't you?" she asked Raul.

He did not answer, but the dampness in his eyes spoke loudly to Doña Helena. It allowed her to read into his heart. He ached for the man he had come to love as a father.

His thoughts traveled back over his lifetime. He had never known his own father. His mother had told Raul and his brother very little of the man. Only his uncle had ever dared to speak to the boys of their father as he had grown up. Raul knew that he had been affiliated with the mafia and that he had been killed by the mob when he refused to let them threaten his wife and children. He had been told that his father had loved them very much, but it was a love he had never known. Until Pancho Mendoza...

Raul had taken a new name when he came to Argentina six years earlier. He had tried to hide his heritage. He was ashamed of the background of his father, and he did not want anyone to know that he was Italian. Señor Mendoza had detected his accent when he first arrived at the estancia, but he never asked him about it. There were many things that Raul hoped would never be discovered. As close as the two men had grown, Señor Mendoza knew better than to ask questions about things that did not concern him.

* * *

A loud knock sounded at the door. Raul did not realize how long he had knelt beside the man-so hard on the exterior, but so tender in his heart.

Doña Helena, who had decided to go about the more mundane matters which were her duties, rushed to answer the demanding knock.

"Where is he?" Dr. Peréz asked. Seeing Señor Mendoza lying on the floor, he pushed her to the side and made his way to the silent body.

"Raul," he said softly, but with a great deal of authority, "please move out of the way. I would like to examine the old man. It is better if you are not here. If I need you, or as soon as I finish examining him, I will call you and let you know what I have found."

Raul rose to his feet, dazed at the condition of this man before him, and left the room, much against his better judgment.

Dr. Peréz moved quickly, checking the pulse of the once powerful man who now lay helpless before him. He withdrew his stethoscope from his worn black medical bag. Placing it in his ears, he took the end of it and warmed it with his hands before putting it on Señor Mendoza's chest. The thump, thump, thump of the heartbeat was barely audible. Dr. Peréz moved quickly, placing one hand on top of the other, then applied pressure to Señor Mendoza's heart. He hoped he would be able to revive him to a normal heart rate. He worked frantically on the nearly lifeless figure. For as small a man as the doctor portrayed, he seemed to be a giant as he put his whole weight and self into the efforts he was so deeply engaged in.

After fifteen minutes had passed, Raul could stand the suspense no longer. He broke into the room, intending to demand an explanation as to the treatment Señor Mendoza was receiving.

The body of Señor Mendoza was heaving violently up and down on the floor. Dr. Peréz was struggling to control it, but the weight beneath him was overpowering.

"Quick! Grab his arm and hold him down while I work on his chest!"

Raul raced to the unmanageable being and placed one of his powerful arms on each of the arms of Señor Mendoza. In spite of his great strength, he was unable to hold him completely quiet, but he fought desperately hard to maintain enough calm to enable Dr. Peréz to once again apply pressure to the heart.

Almost without any warning, the body was completely still. Feeling a tremendous relief, Raul removed his arms from the man and sat back, breathing as deeply as if he had just ridden after all the sheep on the entire estancia."He is okay now! That was close, wasn't it, Doc?"

Dr. Peréz looked at Raul. He did not speak. He took his stethoscope and placed it on the chest. The silence of the moment filled the room. He removed the stethoscope and placed it carefully in his medical bag.

"He is going to be all right now, isn't he?"

Raul's face was filled with a million unspoken questions. If he still needed help, he reasoned, the doctor would still be listening to his heart.

Dr. Peréz stood up and offered a hand to Raul.

"I am very sorry, Raul. I did everything I could for Señor Mendoza." He looked at the hardened face of the gaucho. The weathered cracks of the skin seemed to break into pieces as the tears rolled down his cheeks.

"What do you mean?" he demanded. "You don't mean..." His voice trailed off endlessly.

"I am sorry, Raul," Dr. Peréz said softly. "You cared for him deeply, didn't you?"

Raul did not speak. He could not speak. He opened his mouth, but his throat was parchment dry. He walked to the door and opened it for the doctor. He tried to say "Thank you," but once again, nothing would come out.

Dr. Peréz said, "I will get a death certificate and have it sent over here."

So final!

Raul knelt beside the lifeless figure on the floor. Just this morning, when they had eaten breakfast together, he seemed so vibrant-so full of life-so enthusiastic. He could not believe that this body was the same person. How could life end so abruptly? So without warning? So senselessly?

* * *

The next two days passed slowly. There was so much to do, but Raul did not have the heart to try to do anything. Doña Helena, who had been with Señor Mendoza all of her life, took full charge of all of the notifications, the funeral details, and the arrangements for the guests who would soon be swarming like a bunch of hungry bees.

The news had flashed over the radio and the television that Pancho Mendoza was dead. The people who had worked for him, those who had been involved with him in his business dealings, his attorneys, his friends, his enemies, the heads-of-state from many countries, were all gathered. The only people missing were his relatives. He seemed to be alone in the world, even now when he was converged upon by multitudes of people. He had never married, never had any children, and his only brother had died in a plane crash years ago.

With the funeral services over, the attorney went to Doña Helena and quietly conversed with her. There was a buzzing from one person to another. The disposition of Señor Mendoza's estate was a matter of great speculation. It had been, in fact, a matter of great betting odds in the casinos in Mar del Plata, the "Las Vegas of Argentina."

Doña Helena approached Raul. All eyes were fixed on them. Together they disappeared into the study. Señor Mendoza's attorney went to two other people, both who had been in his employ for a number of years. They joined the two who were already in the study. The attorney disappeared without turning to face the questioning eyes of the group that was standing, gazing at the door through which they disappeared.

"I know you all loved Señor Mendoza very much," the attorney began. "Señor Mendoza knew that, too. I have been instructed by Pancho to inform you of the disposition of his belongings as soon as the funeral is over. So, let's get down to business."

Raul squirmed on his chair. No one ever called Señor Mendoza "Pancho," he thought. How dare he?

The four members of the party stared in disbelief. They had no idea they would be the recipients of his kindness. They had partaken of his generosity during his lifetime; now they would indulge themselves in his goodness in his death.

"Doña Helena," the attorney continued, "You are to be the sole owner of the hacienda-the house proper. And you are assured of an income for the rest of your life from the profits of the ranch." He watched her as he relayed the news to her. She burst into tears. There was no need for words from anyone at a time like this. "There is one stipulation, however. You must continue to do the public obligations for the ranch, as Señor Mendoza always did."

The attorney turned to one of the two workers. "You," he said, "are to have the east five hundred acres of the ranch. You are to tend it as Señor Mendoza has always done."

Turning to the other worker, he went on. "You, on the other hand, are to have the west five hundred acres of the ranch. You also are to tend it as Señor Mendoza has done."

"Are there any questions?" he asked the group. No one spoke.

"Raul," he continued, "the balance of the holdings of Señor Pancho Mendoza are to go to you. The thousands of acres of the ranch proper are yours, as well as his grape vineyards in Mendoza Province. He has left detailed instructions at my office on how he wants to have you proceed, as if he were here watching you. I will get them to you tomorrow."

Raul stared in amazement. How could this be? The kid from the streets in New York City was suddenly a millionaire. He should feel like the luckiest person in the world, but at this very moment he would give it all up in an instant to have the man he had grown so fond o here in their midst instead.

Raul looked around the room at the other three who had just been given word that they too were beneficiaries of Señor Mendoza's great generosity. He could tell-from the look on their faces, from the damp eyes, from the quiet which penetrated the entire atmosphere, from the words which echoed off the walls without even being spoken-that the others felt the same way he did.

The attorney finally spoke, breaking the solemn stillness. It seemed almost sacreligious to even think of cracking a joke, and yet a deep smile was evident across his face.

"Oh, one more thing, Raul," he said, looking at him square in the face, "Señor Mendoza said that you will have to figure out where you are going to live. You are not allowed to move into the hacienda with Doña Helena, unless you should at some time decide to marry. Then you and your wife could reside there, but only if it is agreeable with Doña Helena. "

The group roared hysterically. One thing they had all appreciated about Señor Mendoza-or should we say the late Señor Mendoza-was his wry sense of humor. It was evident, even now. He would not want these people, whom he had depended on deeply to be there when he needed them, to grieve his departure, no matter when or how it came.

The people who were in the large living room beyond had grown nervous and anxious. The chatter had died almost completely. The ears and eyes were all centered on the door to the study. Astonishment filled the faces of the beholders. What could possibly be so funny at a time like this?

"What kind of joke did the old man play on us?" It was the U.S. Ambassador who dared to speak. He had served Señor Mendoza well on many occasions. He had helped him amass his fortunes. He had a right to be remembered. He belonged in that room! A fierce

rage overtook him. He nearly shook from the anger which was experiencing. He deserved something more than to be sitting here among all these people, listening to the laughter coming from inside, like he was some stranger. He probably knew more about Señor Mendoza's holdings and business than anyone else here, except perhaps the attorney. Jeremy David Whitcomb was entitled to more than he was getting! But for once he did not know what to do about the situation. For years he had known power, but he was totally powerless now. It was a feeling he did not enjoy.

* * *

The next morning the doorbell rang. Doña Helena went to answer it, and was surprised to find the attorney there so early in the morning.

"Where is Raul?" he asked.

"Raul?" Doña Helena said in surprise. "You, of all people, should know that he is not allowed to move into the hacienda." She smiled warmly. "He is out in the casita-the small house for the gauchos. Imagine that," she said, "a millionaire and still sleeping out there with the hired hands."

The attorney grinned. "Señor Mendoza would love it. He knew he could trust Raul. He said the one man he could depend on to not let his money spoil him was Raul. In fact, he said he could picture Raul living in the casita for the rest of his life."

"I did ask him to come in for breakfast," Doña Helena said. "It seems awfully empty in here this morning."

"If you don't mind," he said, "I will wait for him in here. I do have something I would like to discuss with both of you."

"Come join me in the kitchen," she invited. "I will give you a cup of coffee." She hesitated for a moment, then added, "Señor Mendoza always had a cup of coffee before breakfast. He always said he was a real bear before his coffee, but I never heard him say anything unkind about anyone."

The back door flung open and Raul came charging in. He sat down at the table, appearing completely oblivious to the presence of the attorney, and banged his fists on the heavy oak table.

"Where is my coffee?" he demanded. "I can't function until I have had a cup of that brew! Come on, woman! Bring me my coffee!"

Doña Helena laughed. His imitation of Señor Mendoza was almost perfect.

"Well?" Raul asked. "Did I pass?"

"He could not have done it better himself," she admitted. "If I had had my eyes closed, I would have thought he had been resurrected."

With no further hesitation, Doña Helena took a cup of hot, steaming coffee and set it before him on the table.

Turning to the attorney, Raul said, "Well, good morning, señor. What are you doing out here at the estaancia at this hour of the morning? I thought you people slept until at least seven o'clock."

The attorney smiled. "You learn very quickly, just as Señor Mendoza said," he quipped. "You sound as cynical as he tried to sound. As a matter of fact, Señor Escobar, I am in my office before seven o'clock most mornings. Now, shall we get down to business?"

Taking a large box from the floor, he said to Raul, "Here you are. These are the deeds for all of Señor Mendoza's land."

Raul gasped. He had never seen a deed before, much less held one in his hands. Now, these were his? All of them?

For the first time in more than six years, Raul thought of his mother. He had put her out of his mind-forever, he thought. Why should she invade his thoughts now? Suddenly, he wished he could share his newfound wealth with her. She had worked hard to provide a living for him and his twin brother when they were growing up. He wondered, too, for the first time, where his brother was and what he was doing.

Snapping back to reality, he pushed such thoughts far back into a corner of his mind, making a very conscious effort to forget that they were there. It was an uncomfortable area of his mind; he did not wish to dwell on it.

"Well," Raul drawled, "you can keep them for me. I presume you handled most of that end of the business for Señor Mendoza. Am I right?"

"You are indeed," he replied. "I shall be glad to continue in your employ, Señor Escobar."Señor Escobar! It sounded so formal. He hated it, but realized that he would have to accept a new role. He had become Raul; he would become Señor Escobar. Change was one thing he had learned to handle quite well.

* * *

The threesome was interrupted by the doorbell. Doña Helena, who had been busy about her duties, hurried to answer it.

"Is Señor Escobar here?" the man inquired.

"Yes, come in," Doña Helena said invitingly.

"I will wait here for him." Pointing behind him, he had a dozen sheep with him.

Raul went to the door, followed by Doña Helena and the attorney. Their curiosity had been duly aroused.

"May I be of service to you?" Raul asked the man.

"No, Señor. It is I who wish to serve you. I have heard that you are the new owner of the estancia. I wish to pay my respects to Señor Mendoza. He helped me purchase my first acres of land. I now have come to repay the debt I owe him. Here are twelve sheep to add to your flocks. Good day, Señor Escobar."

The three of them stood there, looking at each other. The man left in such a hurry, he virtually seemed to disappear.

"Well, well," the attorney chuckled, "you do seem to have that certain knack about you. A chip off the old block! That is the way Señor Mendoza started his first flock of sheep when he moved to the Pampas from Mendoza Province. You will do well, my boy. You will do very well."

As the three of them returned to the house, the attorney said to Doña Helena, "I do hope you can prepare for the fiesta."

"Fiesta?" she asked. "What fiesta? Señor Mendoza is barely dead! We cannot hold a party on the poor man's grave."

"I am sorry you feel that way," the attorney replied. "It was Señor Mendoza's wish that you have a party at the hacienda within a week of the time of his death to announce the new owner of the estancia to the world. They will all want to know. You must comply with his wish."

Raul, who hated publicity and crowds of people, shuddered.

"What must I do? I don't know how to give a party."

"It is no problem," Doña Helena said. "I have the guest lists from all of Señor Mendoza's parties. He never did anything but attend. I always did all the work. I can continue doing all of your work and you can get all of the credit. I can see it now," Doña Helena said, somewhat sarcastically," Señor Escobar holds party in the estancia in the traditional Mendoza style."

They all laughed. They knew Señor Mendoza would have been glad to see them laugh. They could almost feel his presence among them.


Posted by joyceanthony at 12:40 AM EDT
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