The Writer Side of Life

I've moved!

2010-08-27T06:39:00.000-07:00

The Writer Side of Life has a new home!

I've updated my website and moved the blog over there. Same ol' chatter with a whole new look. Please drop by and let me know what you think!

See you there!

Lee

Sunday Fun—My New Umbrella

2010-08-22T07:57:00.000-07:00

Last night I attended a cocktail fundraiser for breast cancer research and won this fabulous umbrella for making the largest donation.

I can't believe I'm saying this, but I'm actually looking forward to the next rainy day!

Until next time,
Lee

Breakfast at Ginger's

2010-08-21T18:10:00.001-07:00

This is one of the cutest YouTube videos I've seen in ages!

Until next time,
Lee

Tuesday News

2010-08-10T08:59:00.000-07:00

With the July release of Firefighter Daddy, the past month has been a whirlwind of book signings and guest blog appearances. Exhausting, but so much fun!

Here’s a photo taken at the multi-author signing I took part in last Saturday.

[l. to r.: Golden Heart winner Jacqui Nelson with a copy of Firefighter Daddy in her hot little hands, Chelsea Bowles, me in my I “heart” SF T-shirt, and fellow author Susan Lyons/Fox]

I love the little gems that pop up on the Internet. Here's Firefighter Daddy listed in the Firefighter Gifts section of the United Firefighter website!

I’ve had to switch gears this week to work on the page proofs of my January 2011 release, The Wedding Bargain. I really love the characters in this story and I sure hope readers will, too.

Speaking of great stories, today you’ll find four new Harlequin American Romances on bookstore shelves.

Baby Bombshell
by Lisa Ruff

Dusty: Wild Cowboy
by Cathy McDavid
Third in the must-read The Codys: The First Family of Rodeo miniseries!

The Mommy Proposal
by Cathy Gillen Thacker

His Hired Baby
by Jacqueline Diamond

Check out the covers at eHarlequin.com. Happy reading!

Until next time,

Lee

Sunday Fun—Inspiration

2010-08-08T10:23:00.000-07:00

Some writers do storyboards and collages for the books they write, and I envy them that. That process has always intrigued me and I've considered doing it but have just never set aside the time.

I do look for things that inspire my writing, though, and I keep various things on and around my desk that help keep me in the moment while I'm writing, help with adding details to scenes, and so on.

So I thought I would share a couple of images I used while writing Firefighter Daddy—specifically Rory's bridesmaid dress and shoes. The dress I had in mind wasn't identical to this one but it was very similar.

Rory's strappy, sparkly shoes, however, were exactly like these!

I think they're gorgeous, even though my feet hurt just looking at them.

And of course Mitch liked them too. A lot!

Happy reading!

Until next time,
Lee

This Week's News

2010-08-06T07:33:00.000-07:00

I'm doing one last book signing tomorrow so if you'd like an autographed copy of Firefighter Daddy, please drop by!

Saturday, August 7
1 to 4 pm
Coles Books, Tillicum Mall
Victoria, BC

This will be a multi-author signing and I'll be joined by Sharon Ashwood, Mimi Barbour, Bonnie Edwards and Susan Lyons.

We're holding an instant win draw and everyone who stops at our table will win candy or a fun little prize. Those who buy books will also be eligible for the grand prize draw for a beautiful travel tote bag filled with goodies.

The page proofs for The Wedding Bargain are here so that's what will be keeping me busy for the next few days.

Until next time,
Lee

Food for Thought—Cranberry & Herb Turkey Burgers

2010-08-02T08:13:00.000-07:00

I was at the deli the other day and saw ready-made turkey-cranberry patties and thought...yum!

So I came home, searched for a recipe and discovered this.

Cranberry & Herb Turkey Burgers
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons whole-wheat couscous
1/2 cup boiling water
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 stalk celery, minced
1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
1 1/2 teaspoons chopped fresh sage
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1/4 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
1 pound lean ground turkey

Place couscous in a large bowl. Pour in boiling water, stir and set aside until the water is absorbed, about 5 minutes. If grilling the burgers, preheat grill to medium-high.

Meanwhile, heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Add celery; cook, stirring, until softened, about 3 minutes. Add thyme, sage, salt and pepper; cook until fragrant, about 20 seconds more. Transfer the mixture to the bowl with the couscous, add cranberries and stir to combine. Let cool for 5 minutes. Add turkey and stir until combined; do not overmix. Form the mixture into 6 patties.

To cook on the stovetop: Coat a large nonstick skillet, preferably cast-iron, with cooking spray and set over medium-high heat for 2 minutes. Add the patties, reduce heat to medium, and cook for 4 minutes. Turn and cook on the other side for 2 minutes. Cover and continue to cook until lightly browned but still juicy (the juices should run clear, not pink), about 4 minutes more. (An instant-read thermometer inserted in the center should read 165° F.)

To grill: Oil the grill rack and grill the burgers for 5 to 6 minutes per side, flipping gently to avoid breaking them. Serve immediately.

I followed the recipe exactly, except I used about half a teaspoon each of dried thyme and sage instead of fresh. It's like Christmas in July. So delicious!

Until next time,
Lee

PS: If you follow the above link, you can get a nice printable version of this recipe.

Tuesday News

2010-07-27T06:17:00.000-07:00

Two book signings down, one to go! Here are the details about my next and last signing of the summer:

Saturday, August 7
1 to 4 pm
Coles Books, Tillicum Mall
Victoria, BC

This will be a multi-author signing and I'll be joined by Sharon Ashwood, Mimi Barbour, Bonnie Edwards and Susan Lyons.

Any day now I expect to receive the page proofs for The Wedding Bargain, the sequel to Firefighter Daddy. And I discovered this week that it's already available for preorder on Amazon.com and Chapters.ca!

The Romance Writers of America's national conference is being held this week in Orlando, FL. I'm not attending this year, but I'm sending a special shout-out to this year's Rita and Golden Heart finalists!

Until next time,
Lee

Blogs and Book Signings

2010-07-24T08:41:00.000-07:00

Today is my regular blog day with the Harlequin American Romance Authors and I'm taking a stroll down memory lane to revisit the games we used to play during school recess. Remember those?

This afternoon you'll find me chatting with readers and signing copies of Firefighter Daddy at:

Save On Foods ~ Deli Department
3510 Blanshard Street, Victoria
1 to 4 pm

I'll be giving away chocolates and bookmarks so if you're in the neighborhood, please drop by!

Until next time,
Lee

Tuesday News—It Just Doesn’t Get Old

2010-07-20T07:05:00.000-07:00

What a fun week I've had! I did my first ever solo book signing last Friday, met and chatted with lots of readers, and autographed fifteen copies of Firefighter Daddy.

Last Wednesday the Saskatoon StarPhoenix ran a feature story about me, and as a result I've been invited to contribute copies of my Harlequin American Romance novels to a collection of books written by former students of the University of Saskatchewan. I feel completely honored.

On Sunday afternoon I dashed around to local department stores, drug stores, etc., that sell Harlequin American Romances, and did a little book merchandising. Snapped this photo of Firefighter Daddy on a shelf next to Marin Thomas’s Dexter: Honorable Cowboy.

Have you ever seen two more sighworthy heroes? I’m serious when I say THIS NEVER GETS OLD!

This week I’m teaming up with Sharon Ashwood for another book signing. Here are the details:

Saturday, July 24

1 to 4 pm
Save On Foods ~ Deli Department
3510 Blanshard Street, Victoria

We’ll have treats and giveaways, and everyone who buys a copy of Firefighter Daddy will get the recipe for my favorite potato salad. After all, if we're going to be in the deli, we might as well have a picnic!

If you can’t join me this Saturday, I’ll be doing another signing on Saturday, August 7. I’ll post those details in a week or so.

I hope you’re having a wonderful summer. Happy reading!

Lee

Sunday Fun—Garden Art

2010-07-18T09:28:00.000-07:00

Dragonflies are such beautiful and intriguing insects, so when I spotted this metal sculpture while touring a public garden this week, I just had to snap a photo.

I love that it's made from found objects and recycled metal, and I especially love the ball-bearing eyes.

My husband creates garden sculpture as well—here's one of his gorgeous driftwood herons.

I've now added a dragonfly to my wish list for the garden.

Until next time,
Lee

Friday Food for Thought—Favorite Snacks

2010-07-16T07:42:00.000-07:00

Healthy or junk food, we all have favorite snacks.

In Firefighter Daddy, Mitch’s daughter Miranda loves to go out for ice cream. Her favorite flavor? Chocolate chip cookie dough.

I’ve known people who'll make a batch of chocolate chip cookie dough and actually eat it raw instead of baking it. To which I say, ick!

In another scene in the book, Rory makes herself a bowl of microwave popcorn and then falls asleep on the sofa while she’s looking after Mitch’s daughter. Have to say I had a lot of fun writing that scene. There’s even a little snippet in the teaser blurb inside the front cover.

I happen to love ice cream and popcorn. I’m also a huge fan of dark chocolate (and getting huger by the minute, if I’m not careful) and potato chips (plain and salty).

Of course, some would say chocolate is not a snack but rather an important food group, and they’ll get no argument from me!

What’s your favorite snack? and is it healthy or junk food?

Until next time,
Lee

PS: I'll be signing books from 1 to 4 this afternoon at Save On Foods at Country Club Mall in Nanaimo, BC. And yes, there will be chocolate!

PPS: Marin Thomas is blogging with the Harlequin American Romance Authors today. Drop by for a chance to win an autographed of Dexter: Honorable Cowboy and one of her fabulous cowboy-themed giveaways!

Updae on My Guest Blogs

2010-07-15T06:55:00.000-07:00

My guest blog at Micole Writes Romance has been moved to next Thursday, July 22. I hope you'll join me then!

Until next time,
Lee

Tuesday News

2010-07-13T22:49:00.000-07:00

Today’s the day! The official release of Firefighter Daddy is finally upon us and I couldn’t be more thrilled! There have been Facebook greetings, emails from family and friends, bookstore sightings...it’s all good!

I’ll be posting several guest blogs this week and I would love it if you'd join me.

The first is on Wednesday at Riding with the Top Down where I’m blogging about San Francisco and the '60s, and giving away an autographed copy of Firefighter Daddy and some very cool peace sign earrings! For a chance to win, all you have to do is post a comment.

On Thursday you’ll find me at Micole Writes Romance.

On Friday from 1 to 4 p.m. I’ll be signing copies of Firefighter Daddy in Nanaimo, BC at Save On Foods in the Country Club Mall. If you’re in the neighborhood, please drop by. There’ll be chocolate!

And please remember...there are three other fabulous Harlequin American Romances on the shelves this month. Here’s what to watch for:

Dexter: Honorable Cowboy
by Marin Thomas
(the second book in Harlequin American Romance’s
first-ever continuity series)

The Lawman's Little Surprise
by Roxann Delaney

A Mom for Callie
by Laura Bradford

Happy reading!

Until next time,
Lee

Must Watch Friday

2010-07-09T07:45:00.000-07:00

Today is "Must Watch Friday" at the Pink Heart Society and I'm their guest blogger. I'd love it you dropped by and said "Hi!"

Until next time,
Lee

Tuesday News

2010-07-06T08:59:00.000-07:00

On Sunday I snapped this photo of a Great Blue Heron in a local park. I was only six or eight feet away and she stood there, calm as could be. Turns out she has been mugging for tourists all summer, and who can blame her? She (or he) is very photogenic!

Yesterday I finished the line edits for my January 2011 release, The Wedding Bargain, and sent those to my editor. It's good to have that off my plate so I can focus on next week's release of Firefighter Daddy.

To kick things off I’ll be a guest blogger this Friday (July 9th) with The Pink Heart Society. It’s “Must Watch Friday" and I’ll be chatting about a favorite film and TV show. I hope you’ll join me.

Speaking of blogs, the authors of Harlequin American Romance’s first-ever continuity series, The Codys: First Family of Rodeo, have created a blog to discuss the series with readers. Click on the link and head on over for contests, lots of talk about cowboys, and...well...why talk about anything else when you can talk about cowboys?

Unless of course it's firefighters! My first Firefighter Daddy booksigning is scheduled for next Friday, July 16 at:

Save On Foods
Country Club Mall
3200 North Island Highway, Nanaimo, BC
1 to 4 pm

There’ll be bookmarks and chocolate. If you’re in the area, please drop by and say “Hi!”

Until next time,
Lee

Happy Fourth of July!

2010-07-04T01:00:00.000-07:00

Here's how my nieces are celebrating.

Are these not the most adorable pedicures you've ever seen?

I hope your Fourth of July is as happy as theirs!

Until next time,
Lee

Happy Canada Day!

2010-07-01T08:04:00.000-07:00

Happy Canada Day to all of my readers and friends north of the 49th. I hope you enjoy the festivities, picnics and fireworks, and most important of all, that you get to do it with family and friends.

Planning a barbecue? Here's a great steak marinade.

Lee's Favorite Steak Marinade

1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 to 4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon sugar

Combine all the ingredients. Add the steaks, turn them to coat both sides. Cover and marinate for 30 minutes in the fridge. Season the steaks with salt before putting them on the grill.

Enjoy!

Until next time,
Lee

Tuesday News—Two Weeks and Counting

2010-06-29T07:45:00.000-07:00

The release of Firefighter Daddy is only two weeks away...July 13...and yes, I’m counting! It’s also available from eHarlequin.com.

I’m having new bookmarks printed—this time with the bookcover on the back. They’ll be ready tomorrow. As always, if you’d like one, please send your snail mail address via the email address on my website and I’ll send you one.

RT Book Reviews gave Firefighter Daddy an awesome 4-Star review.

Firefighter Mitch Donovan is a devoted father trying to adjust to life after the tragic death of his wife. Rory Borland, or “Miss Sunshine” to her students, is his daughter’s teacher and his mother’s tenant. As proud of her hippie roots as he is befuddled, Mitch and Rory are as different as night and day. As they get to know each other, Rory is not sure she is ready to be a mom to one small child. McKenzie’s characters are warm and inviting and keep the reader entertained throughout the story.

I’m thrilled!

Are you on Facebook? If so, it would be great to have you as a friend and a fan!

Next Tuesday News Day I’ll be posting a list of my upcoming guest blogs and book signings. I’d love to have you drop by if you can.

Until next time,
Lee

Firefighter Daddy—The Inspiration

2010-06-28T06:41:00.000-07:00

William R. De Avila School
Haight Street, San Franciso

Some books are inspired by a character, others by an event. Firefighter Daddy (Harlequin American Romance, July 13, 2010) was inspired by a former elementary school that's located a few short blocks from the world-famous intersection of Haight and Ashbury streets.

From the moment I saw it, I had my story.

Happy reading!

Until next time,
Lee

Friday Food for Thought—Two More Risotto Recipes

2010-06-25T18:50:00.000-07:00

Today I’m serving up my two top favorite risotto recipes. I hope your family loves them as much as mine does.

Butternut Squash Risotto

1 to 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried sage
a pinch of dried chili peppers
3 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced
1 & 1/2 cups arborio rice
4 cups hot chicken or vegetable stock
1/2 cup dry white wine (or 1/2 cup water with 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar)
1/2 cup Asiago cheese, shredded
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Gently saute the onion and garlic till soft. Season with sage and chili peppers. Stir in the cubed squash. Add the rice and stir for about 1 minute. Stir in 3 cups of hot stock (reserve 1 cup of stock for later) and white wine. Bring to a boil, give it a good stir, cover the skillet, reduce heat to low, and cook for 10 minutes. Stir the rice and then cook for an additional 10 minutes. Add the remaining 1 cup of stock, cheese and parsley. Stir until everything is heated and the cheese has melted. Serve and enjoy!

Butternut squash risotto is great on its own or served as a side dish. Enjoy!

And now...saving the best for last!...my absolute favorite risotto recipe. Trust me, it's delicious!

Shrimp Risotto with Spinach and Green Peas

1 to 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 teaspoon lemon rind, finely grated
1/2 teaspoon salt
1& 1/2 cups arborio rice
3 & 1/2 cups hot chicken or vegetable stock
1/2 cup dry white wine (or 1/2 cup water with 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar)
3/4 pound cooked shrimp, shelled and deveined
2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Gently saute the onion and garlic till soft. Season with lemon rind and salt. Add the rice and stir for about 1 minute. Stir in 3 cups of hot stock (reserve 1 cup of stock for later) and white wine. Bring to a boil, give it a good stir, cover the skillet, reduce heat to low, and cook for 10 minutes. Stir the rice and then cook for an additional 10 minutes. Add the remaining 1/2 cup of stock, shrimp, spinach and green peas. Stir until everything is heated through.

Variation: Omit the frozen peas and replace with blanched sugar snap peas.

This one is great as a main dish. Serve with a salad and, if you choose, your favorite chilled white wine.

Most of all, enjoy!

Until next time,
Lee

This Week's News

2010-06-23T13:27:00.000-07:00

I was beginning to wonder if summer would ever arrive here in the Pacific Northwest, and finally it has. Two warm sunny days, back to back. Hurray!

On Saturday my critique partner, Rachel Goldsworthy and I presented our blogging workshop to an enthusiastic audience of romance writers in Vancouver, BC. It was a fun day, and on the way home I found the coolest T-shirt to wear at my summer booksignings. It's turquoise and has a print of a VW hippie van on it - a lot like the one on my bookmark.

I'll post a photo of the T-shirt soon, possibly with me in it.

This week I have made great strides on clearing out my office. And yes, I know what you're thinking.

Wasn't she talking about this last year?

Yes, I was. My excuse? I've been busy! Now that I'm making progress, I'm also back to daydreaming about furniture, and this just might be the most beautiful chair I've ever seen.

It's a Harlequin wingback chair from a company called MacKenzie-Childs. Could there be a more perfect chair for the office of a Harlequin author named McKenzie? I think not.

Alas, I'm afraid it's out of my budget. But a girl can daydream, right?

Until next time,
Lee

Putting the FUN in Fundraiser

2010-06-17T08:06:00.000-07:00

I came across this blog by Eddie Ross, Inc. the other day and had to share because it combines two things that are very near and dear to my heart—scouring secondhand stores and flea markets for fabulous vintage finds, and raising funds for a cure for melanoma through the Noreen O’Neil Foundation for Melanoma Research and The Wistar Insitute.

The event was called A Date with a Plate and I have to ask, is this not the happiest and most beautiful tablescape you have ever seen?

Can you see yourself sitting here for lunch or dinner with seven of your BFFs, perhaps on a lovely terrace? Shaded from the sun, of course!

For the full story, though, you really must visit to Eddie Ross’s blog to discover how he put it all together.

I’m inspired!

Until next time,
Lee

Tuesday News

2010-06-15T17:48:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, June 19 my critique partner Rachel Goldsworthy and I are presenting a fun, interactive workshop - Blog a Little, Blog a Lot, or Not - to the Greater Vancouver Chapter of Romance Writers of America. Guests are welcome.

Last Tuesday I forgot to mention that four new Harlequin American Romances were released.

The Sheriff and the Baby
by C.C. Coburn

Walker: The Rodeo Legend
by Rebecca Winters

The Best Man in Texas
by Tanya Michaels

Second Chance Hero
by Shelley Galloway

Check out the covers and back cover blurbs at eHarlequin.com. Rebecca Winter's Walker: The Rodeo Legend is the first book in Harlequin American Romance's first-ever not-to-be-missed continuity series. Happy reading!

Until next time,
Lee

Friday Food for Thought— Mediterranean Risotto

2010-06-11T07:24:00.001-07:00

Here’s another of my favorite risotto recipes.

Mediterranean Risotto

1 to 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 and 1/2 cups arborio rice
3 and 3/4 cups hot chicken or vegetable stock
1/2 cup dry white wine (or 1/2 cup water with 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar)
1/2 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 cup Romano or Parmesan cheese
1/4 to 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced in half
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Gently saute the onion and garlic till soft. Season with oregano. Add the rice and stir for about 1 minute. Stir in 3 cups of hot stock (reserve 3/4 cup of stock for later) and white wine. Bring to a boil, give it a good stir, cover the skillet, reduce heat to low, and cook for 10 minutes. Stir the rice and then cook for an additional 10 minutes. Add the remaining 3/4 stock, cheese, olives and parsley. Stir until everything is heated and the cheese has melted. Serve and enjoy!

Tip: if using regular sun-dried tomatoes, soften them in boiling water for 5 minutes before chopping.

Variation: add some chopped prosciutto (Italian ham) along with the cheese.

This risotto goes well with a big green salad, and a glass of red wine if you’re so inclined.

Bon appetit!

Until next time,
Lee

Tuesday News

2010-06-08T08:24:00.000-07:00

Revisions to The Wedding Bargain are coming along nicely, I’m happy to say.

Went to one of my favorite farmers’ markets on Saturday and came home with a bag of garden-fresh produce—baby salad greens, Swiss chard, and some delicious turnips that went into a pot of stew on Sunday—and tickets to the local Shakespeare festival’s production of The Taming of the Shrew in July. It’s one of my favorite Shakespeare plays and I’m really looking forward to it.

Six of my neighbors had garage sales on the weekend and from one of them I acquired a huge concrete urn for my patio. And it was FREE! Now I have to make a trip to the garden center to buy plants for it.

I didn’t participate in the sale but I had two boxes of books that were looking for new homes. I put them on a table at the end of the driveway with a “FREE BOOKS” sign, and all but eight disappeared.

Have I mentioned that I’m now on Facebook? I even have a Lee McKenzie - Contemporary Romance Author fan page. Now I just need some fans.

Oh, wait...

Until next time,
Lee

Friday Food for Thought—Vegetable Risotto

2010-06-04T01:00:00.000-07:00

I love risotto because, depending on the serving size, it can either be a one-pot meal or a delicious side dish. This month I’m serving up four of my risotto recipes, starting with one of my favorites.

Vegetable Risotto

1 to 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1-1/2 cups arborio rice
3-3/4 cups hot chicken or vegetable stock
1/2 cup dry white wine (or 1/2 cup water with 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
1 sweet red pepper, seeded and diced
1 zucchini, diced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
2 green onions, sliced
1 cup corn kernels, cooked
1/2 cup Asiago cheese, grated

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Gently saute the onion, garlic, red pepper and zucchini until soft. Season with salt and the basil. Add the rice and stir for about 1 minute. Stir in 3 cups of hot stock (reserve 3/4 cup of stock for later) and white wine. Bring to a boil, give it a good stir, cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and cook for 10 minutes. Stir the rice and then cook for an additional 10 minutes. Add the remaining 3/4 stock, the green onions, corn and Asiago cheese. Stir until everything is heated and the cheese has melted.

Variation: to make this a little more elegant, add steamed asparagus spears along with the corn and green onions. Okay, so I happen to think asparagus is elegant!

Optional: garnish with sprigs of fresh basil.

This recipe makes four entree-sized servings or eight side servings.

Enjoy!

Until next time,
Lee

PS: for more of my risotto recipes, check back every Friday this month.

Tuesday News

2010-06-01T07:18:00.000-07:00

I attended the Write On, Vancouver Conference this weekend. Great workshops and speakers, reconnected with old friends, made some new ones and, best of all, got to spend time with my Harlequin editor, Johanna Raisanen.

This week I’ll be busy with revisions to The Wedding Bargain and plans for the July 13th release of Firefighter Daddy.

On Sunday while I was still in Vancouver, I bought a butternut squash risotto cake a take-out deli counter. A delicious twist on risotto, which is something I make fairly often, so this month I’m going to post my favorite risotto recipes on Food for Thought Fridays.

Until next time,
Lee

Tuesday News

2010-05-25T08:58:00.000-07:00

Lots going on this week.

First, thanks to my daughter's diligence, accompanied by a small amount of nagging and a lot of hand holding, I’m on Facebook. I have a regular page and a fan page where I’ll be posting info about upcoming events and other fun stuff. Feel free to "friend" me and "like" me!

Firefighter Daddy has received a 4-Star Review from Romantic Times Magazine, and I am a thrilled!

“As proud of her hippie roots as he is befuddled, Mitch and Rory are as different as night and day. McKenzie’s characters are warm and inviting and keep the reader entertained throughout...”

I’m attending the Write On, Vancouver conference this weekend. As you’ve probably guessed, it’s in Vancouver and I’m especially looking forward to meeting with my Harlequin editor, Johanna Raisanen.

Workwise, I’m busily revising The Wedding Bargain.

Oh, and perhaps the best news of all. The new housekeeper starts today. So all of the above and a clean house. Life is good.

Until next time,
Lee

Eagle Watch

2010-05-24T07:40:00.000-07:00

Today I'm blogging with the Harlequin American Romance Authors about the Hornby Island Eagle Cam. Drop by and see some wonderful photos of a baby bald eagle!

Until next time,
Lee

This Week’s News

2010-05-20T21:56:00.000-07:00

I’m deep into revisions of The Wedding Bargain (Harlequin American Romance, January 2011) right now, which partly accounts for my having been MIA for a bit. I thought the book was “done” when I submitted it, but my editor has made some wonderful suggestions that will make the story so much better. I’m excited!

Last Saturday’s foray into the farmers’ markets yielded a glorious bunch of fresh leeks that immediately went into a pot of leek and potato soup. Delicious. As the weeks pass, there'll be a greater variety of fruit and vegetables at the markets. Good things to come!

The official times for the Mother’s Day 10K Walk that my daughter and I participated in were finally posted. I finished in 1:25:47, shaving a little over two minutes off my time in the race I did two weeks earlier. Yay me!

On the home front, I have hired a housekeeper to come in twice a month. She starts next week and I can hardly wait! In addition to cleaning, she’s going to help with some decluttering. You might remember the ambitious office overhaul I embarked on last winter. Well...I did make some progress but then got stalled. Got started again this week and cleared out the storage closet, but there’s still much to do. Having someone to help will keep me motivated. I hope. I’ll keep you posted.

Until next time,
Lee

Tuesday News

2010-05-11T01:00:00.000-07:00

Lots going on this week.

My daughter and I walked in a 10K race on Mother's Day. It was a gorgeous morning and a perfect start to a wonderful day. We're still waiting for our official times to be posted, but we think we finished in about an hour and twenty-six minutes.

I'm anticipating revisions on The Wedding Bargain later this week, so it's nail-biting time!

Today is release day for this month's Harlequin American Romances.

The Baby Twins

by Laura Marie Altom

The Maverick

by Jan Hudson

The Accidental Sherriff

by Cathy McDavid

Dream Daddy

by Daly Thompson

Find out more about these four great reads and check out the gorgeous covers at eHarlequin.com.

Happy reading!

Untile next time,
Lee

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T01:00:00.000-07:00

Warm wishes to all the moms out there.

My daughter and I are walking in a 10K race this morning—it's a fundraiser for the local center for the Deaf and hard of hearing—and then we're heading home for a family brunch.

I hope you have a wonderful day with your family, and I hope someone else does the dishes.

Until next time,

Lee
xoxo

Food for Thought—Farmers’ Markets

2010-05-08T13:55:00.000-07:00

Summer must be right around the corner because the farmers’ markets are back! This morning was my first expedition to the markets this season. Today I bought a head of garden-fresh red butter lettuce—picked this morning!—and a jar of wildflower honey. I bought honey from the same vendor last year. Best honey ever.

I turned the lettuce into a salad when I came home and served it with grilled lemon-tarragon chicken. Yum.

Until next time,
Lee

Eagle Watch

2010-04-29T07:27:00.000-07:00

The Hornby Island eagles are proud parents this morning! I was up early enough to witness the hatch, just before 6:00 a.m. Check out Mom, Dad and baby Phoenix on the the Hornby Island Eagle Cam!

Now the pacing begins again as we wait for the second egg to hatch.

Until next time,
Lee

This Week's News

2010-04-28T08:18:00.000-07:00

I have a title! THE WEDDING BARGAIN, my second book set in San Francisco, will be out in January 2011.

Thanks to all who dropped by to help me celebrate the 10K. Found out yesterday that I placed 39th out of 169 competitive walkers (28th out of the 127 women walkers).

Last Thursday I posted a link to the Hornby Island Eagle Cam. As of this morning, a hole has appeared on one of the eggs and peeping can be heard from within. Oh my gosh, we’re having a baby!

Until next time,
Lee

10K Race Results

2010-04-26T07:11:00.000-07:00

I did it! I walked ten kilometres yesterday morning. I've been training for this since January and my goal was to complete the race in under an hour and forty-five minutes. My actual time was 1:27:59 at a pace of 8.49 per kilometre, so I have to say I'm pretty darned proud of myself. Last month I walked in a 5K race with a time of 45:22 (pace 9:02) so as of yesterday I have a new personal best. It helped that yesterday’s course was less hilly.

More than 13,000 runners and walkers took part in the race, which is a fundraiser for literacy and the heart and stroke foundation. The elite runners finished the race in under 30 minutes. I know . . . inconceivable . . . but as many of you know, my participation in this race has been part of my journey back to good health and I feel every bit as accomplished.

The day itself was pretty much perfect. It started out cloudy and cool with very little wind, and then the sun came out. Much of the course is along the ocean, so the views were spectacular for anyone who looked up long enough to appreciate them.

The energy was amazing, and I think that’s partly what kept me moving. Spectators along the route rang bells and shouted encouragement. Every kilometre or so there was a band playing. And of course there were the most-welcome water stations. And one of the highlights was a hug from my dear friend Anita around kilometre seven.

I truly appreciate all the encouragement I’ve received from family, especially my daughter who ran the race in 1:06:18, friends, and the everyone who took part in the training clinic, especially our coaches, Doug and Elaine.

Today, in spite of a few muscles that seem intent on reminding that I really did walk 10K in under an hour and a half, I feel great, and I’m already looking forward to next year.

Until next time,
Lee

The Eagles Have Nested

2010-04-22T02:00:00.000-07:00

Okay, this is the coolest thing.

Doug and Sheila Carrick, residents of Hornby Island on Canada’s west coast, have set up a web cam above the nest of a pair of bald eagles who reside on their property.

This year the eagles have produced two eggs, and the eggs are set to hatch any day. Thanks to the Carricks, we get to have a bird’s eye view.

Click here to visit the Hornby Island Eagle Cam and witness the birth of two baby bald eagles.

For more information about Doug and Sheila and the eagles, visit their website, The Eagles of Hornby Island.

Bird watching at its best!

Happy Earth Day!

Until next time,
Lee

This Week’s News

2010-04-21T07:06:00.000-07:00

Did you watch Glee last night? Wow. I think it was the best episode yet. Incredibly well written, and even with the all the musical numbers there so many engaging and fully developed storylines.

On a personal note, I’m looking forward to hearing my son’s band perform on Thursday evening.

And please join me on the Harlequin American Romance Authors’ blog on Saturday.

This Sunday I'm walking in a 10K race. Please keep your fingers crossed that it doesn't rain! I'll post my results next week.

That’s it for this week’s news and reviews. Short and sweet.

Until next time,
Lee

Sunday Fun—Spring DIY

2010-04-18T07:04:00.000-07:00

My taste in decorating tends to be conservative and uncluttered with calm, neutral colors but an entire room filled with beige and cream and tan can be, well, boring. Which is what my living room was. It needed some accent colors and I finally decided on a shade of turquoise-approaching-teal with smaller hits of green.

I found this desk in a secondhand store—this photo was actually taken while it was still in the store—and my husband painted it off-white.

The desk needed a chair and I found this one on Craig’s List, cheap. One leg was damanged, the upholstery was musty and the stained wood uninspired.

I’ve had this little spindle table for ages, also a secondhand store find.

Here's how the chair and table look now.

I’m really pleased with how well the desk and chair work together, tucked into a corner of the living room next to the fireplace. My husband received the vintage panther lamp as a Father’s Day gift from our kids.

The little table is great with this slipper chair. The duck was rescued from a thrift store and the rattan basket (purchased for a dollar at a garage sale) holds magazines. I’m still putting together a collection of photographs for this wall so eventually it won’t look so bare.

My next project will be some toss cushions made from what’s left of the floral fabric from the chair seat and a coordinating striped fabric.

It's taken a while to assemble all these pieces and it's still a bit of a work in progress, but I'm really happy with the outcome so far.

Do you have a spring DIY project in mind? I’d love to hear about it!

Until next time,
Lee

Friday Food for Thought—Mac ‘n’ Cheese

2010-04-16T06:33:00.000-07:00

Nothing says comfort quite like a piping hot, fresh-from-the-oven casserole dish of bubbling macaroni and cheese. This is my favorite recipe.

Macaroni and Cheese

8 ounces macaroni
1 tablespoon butter or margarine
1 tablespoon flour
freshly grated nutmeg
salt and pepper to taste
1 cup milk
2 eggs, lightly beaten
8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated

Cook the macaroni according to the instructions on the package. While it cooks, melt the butter in a small saucepan, whisk in the flour, nutmeg, salt and pepper, milk and eggs, and simmer till it thickens, stirring constantly. Stir in the cheese.

Drain the macaroni and put it in a greased, oven-proof skillet or shallow baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the macaroni and mix well.

Bake at 425 degrees for about 15 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden.

So delicious. I use whole wheat macaroni and aged white cheddar. You can also experiment by adding a little cubed ham, some finely diced and lightly sauteed scallions and sweet peppers, or...?

Enjoy!

Until next time,
Lee

Tuesday News

2010-04-13T07:18:00.000-07:00

After an extremely stressful month that included surgery—very minor and all is well, I’m happy to report—and the loss of a close and very dear family member, I’m starting to feel more settled and better able to focus on writing. Right now I'm working on book proposals and anticipating revisions on my January 2011 book.

Tonight I’ll be tuned in to Glee, which is back after an insanely long hiatus. Can’t wait!

Four fabulous new Harlequin American Romances hit the shelves today.

His Baby Surprise
by Lisa Childs

A Mother's Wedding Day
by Rebecca Winters and Dominique Burton

An Unexpected Father
by Lisa Ruff

The Officer's Girl
by Leigh Duncan

Check out the covers and more at eHarlequin.com.

Happy reading!

Until next time,
Lee

Sunday Fun—Kitsch and Collage

2010-04-11T08:19:00.001-07:00

The idea of creating a collage as a pre-writing exercise for a book has always intrigued me, but I’ve never actually made one. Partly because I can imagine myself getting caught up in a project like that and spending way too much time on it instead of on the actual writing, and partly because my creative abilities don’t extend to the art department.

Still, I tend to collect odds and ends that relate to my current project and I keep them on or near my desk. For my July 2010 book, Firefighter Daddy, I loved the story’s San Francisco Haight-Ashbury setting and had fun incorporating a little sixties culture into the book because the hero and heroine were both raised by hippie parents. Rory, the heroine of this story, still drives her mother’s old Volkswagen van, complete with painted flowers and affectionately dubbed “Vanna White.”

That theme is carried over to the bookmarks I’ve been using.

I also found this fabulous little toy hippie van and it’s been sitting on my desk—a source of inspiration and amusement.

Is this cute or what?

Someday I might try my hand at making a real story collage but for now I’ll settle for kitsch.

Until next time,
Lee

Friday Food for Thought—Butter Tarts

2010-04-09T07:34:00.001-07:00

I don’t have a recipe for you today, but I hope you’ll join me for a virtual cup of coffee and a butter tart.

For me, butter tarts are the ultimate comfort food but I have to confess I’ve never actually made them. As a child, I remember watching my grandmother roll out pastry dough, cut it into circles and fit them into muffin tins. She would carefully trim the dough so it was level with the edge of the tin, then spoon in the filling and pop them in the oven.

Mmmm.

There’s really no match for the ooey gooey goodness of a still-warm-from-the-oven butter tart.

I have made butter tart squares, which are a quick and easy version of the tart, although no match for the real thing. I looked for that recipe and couldn’t find it, but I might add that to this weekend’s to-do list.

Do you have a favorite comfort that satisfies your sweet tooth?

Until next time,
Lee

Tuesday News—I Have a Cover!

2010-04-06T22:19:00.000-07:00

Waiting to see a new cover is always a mixture of nail-gnawing trepidation and tummy-turning excitement. Harlequin invites an author’s input into the cover art, but even so I always wonder...will I like it? Will it suit the story?

I saw the cover for my July release, Firefighter Daddy, for the first time today, and I absolutely love it!

What do you think?

Until next time,
Lee

Happy Easter!

2010-04-04T07:31:00.000-07:00

I hope you and your family have a wonderful day filled with peace and harmony and love.

And chocolate.

Until next time,
Lee

Friday Food for Thought—Comfort Foods

2010-04-02T07:19:00.000-07:00

This month’s food for thought here on The Writer Side is comfort food. Those delicious, delectable foods that make me feel as though I’ve just been wrapped in a soft, warm quilt and transported back to Grandma’s kitchen.

One of my favorite meals is a one-pot stew with dumplings. Chicken stew is my all-time fav, but beef comes in a close second. I’ve been using the same dumpling recipe since grade nine Home Ec. In other words, I’ve a lo-o-o-o-ong time! More recently, I started adding a little rosemary and now I love dumplings even more.

Lee’s Rosemary Dumplings

1 1/2 cups flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons butter, softened
3/4 cups milk

Combine the flour, baking powder, rosemary and salt. I pummel the rosemary with a mortar and pestle to break it up and release more of its pungent flavor and aroma. Cut in the butter with a pastry blender. Add the milk and stir.

Bring the stew to a boil and drop the dough by spoonfuls onto the vegetables and meat. Reduce heat. Continue cooking uncovered for 10 minutes, then cover and cook for another 10 minutes. You might have to reduce the heat a little more to prevent the stew from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

I always make enough to have leftovers because stew with dumplings is every bit as comforting the next day!

Until next time,
Lee

The Country Diary of an Edwardian Lady

2010-04-01T07:29:00.000-07:00

Last year I posted several excerpts from Edith Holden’s The Nature Notes of an Edwardian Lady. I recently found a copy of The Country Diary of an Edwardian Lady and thought it would be fun to share that as well. Here are a few snippets from her April entries.

April 1: Very still, grey day. I went to a little spinney to see a large bush of the Great Round-leaved Willow, which is a perfect picture just now, covered all over with great golden catkins, that light up the copse like hundreds of little fairy lamps.

April 7: Another glorious day. Cycled to Knowle. On the way found some Marsh Marigolds and Blackthorn in blossom. The Tadpoles have come out of the balls of jelly and career madly about the aquarium wagging their little black tails.

April 12: Painted the pony and colt all morning in the field. Very hot sun and cool breeze. Saw a beautiful Peacock butterfly and found some Purple Orchis in flower.

April 15: Easter Sunday. Anther brilliant day. Saw a pair of House Martins, watched some Trout in the Leet and found a Chaffinch’s nest nearly finished in a young Hawthorn.

April 28: Showers of hail and sleet.

She also includes this little poem.

The Cry of the Children
by Elizabeth Barrett Browning

The young lambs are bleating n the meadows,
The you ng birds are chirping in the nest,
They young fawns are playing with the shadows,
The young flowers are blowing toward the west—
Go out, children, from the mine and from the city;
Sing out, children, as the little thrushes do;
Pluck your handfuls of meadow-cowslips pretty,
Laugh aloud to feel your fingers let them through!

A lovely reminder to our inner child to take a few moments from what we’re doing and appreciate nature.

Maybe even go tadpoling! I remember being so intrigued by them as a child—first poking globs of frogs’ eggs with a stick, coming back to scoop tadpoles into a jar and watch them swim, and then later catching them when they were tiny frogs that still had their tails.

What’s your favorite part of spring?

Happy April Fools Day!

Until next time,
Lee

Tuesday News

2010-03-30T01:00:00.000-07:00

This is shaping up to be a busy week, culminating in Easter weekend, with family coming to visit and a wonderful Sunday dinner to look forward to.

Right now I’m working on proposals for a third San Francisco book and a three-book series set in Seattle. My editor asked for title suggestions for the second San Francisco book and I submitted those on the weekend. I'll be sure to keep you posted on the outcome.

I’m still training to walk in a 10K race on April 25, and tomorrow my walking group will actually walk 10K. Wish me luck!

Coming up this week on The Writer Side:
Thursday, April 1: The Country Diary of an Edwardian Lady
Friday, April 2: Friday Food for Thought—Comfort Foods
Sunday, April 4: Sunday Fun

Until next time,
Lee

Sunday Fun—Queens of the Castle

2010-03-28T08:45:00.001-07:00

It’s not often that my two cats pose together for the same photo but here they are this morning, sharing the climbing tower. Before I showed up with the camera, they had been watching a pair of crows in the front yard.

The little white-and-grey sweetie on the top level is Lucy and the gorgeous tuxedo cat is Imilie.

Be sure to check back later this week for Tuesday News and Friday Food for Thought.

Until next time,
Lee

This Week's News

2010-03-24T06:53:00.000-07:00

Today's headline:

Norway gives nod to romance author

I'm blogging about it with the Harlequin American Romance Authors. Hope to see you there!

Until next time,
Lee

Sunday Fun—Happy Pi Day

2010-03-14T15:32:00.000-07:00

If you’ve used Google today, you will have figured out that today—March 14—is Pi Day because 3/14 are the first three digits of pi. It’s also Albert Einstein’s birthday, which I think is just about the coolest coincidence ever.

To celebrate, we’re having strawberry-rhubarb pie with “Happy Pi Day” written in chocolate icing. Are you geek enough to celebrate Pi Day?

Until next time,
Lee

Tuesday News

2010-03-09T17:24:00.000-08:00

Today I’m the Spotlight Author at Micole Writes Romance. If you have a few minutes, I’d love to have you drop by.

Saturday, March 13 I’m presenting a marketing workshop to the Vancouver Island Chapter of Romance Writers of America. The workshop is called Tag, You’re It, and participants will work on creating slogans that define them and their work. Kind of like tag lines for writers!

Last Sunday, March 7 I walked in a five-kilometre fun run/walk. That’s a little over three miles. My official time and new "personal best" was 45 minutes and 22 seconds, so about nine minutes per kilometre. Of the walkers, I placed 37th out of 83—which is in the top half!—and of the 18 women in my age category, I placed 5th. I'm still "training" for a 10K walk at the end of April.

That's it for this week's news.

Until next time,
Lee

Lee’s Cream-cycle

2010-03-01T08:53:00.000-08:00

Last month you might remember that I posted a couple of photos of my two bicycles—the polka dot bike my husband gave me for Christmas and the old coaster bike he salvaged.

Here’s the coaster bike before he started to work on it . . .

. . . and here it is after.

I love it!

Gillian, if you see this, you were absolutely right about orange being a great color, and I love the cream accents. Now all I need is a wicker basket, and I’m set!

Until next time,
Lee

Fitness 101

2010-02-24T07:40:00.000-08:00

I'm blogging today with the Harlequin American Romance Authors about my new fitness regime. Please join me if you can.

Until next time,
Lee

This Week’s News

2010-02-17T07:26:00.000-08:00

Here it is, the middle of February, and I’m way behind with many of my 2010 goals. To be honest, I still haven’t finished setting my quarterly goals for this year. My office overhaul is still in progress, my intention to blog more frequently is still an intention, and my website is in desperate need of an update. I think I need an assistant.

On the plus side, I’m writing more—a lot more—and loving it. Even better, it’s fun again. After two years of health challenges, this feels wonderful!

I have more energy and I’m getting quite a bit of exercise. Instead driving everywhere, I’ve starting riding my beautiful polka dot bike. And I’m taking part in a walking clinic. I’ll be doing a 5K walk on March 7 and a 10K walk on April 25. Me! Walking 10 kilometers! Who could have predicted that?

Other news:

on the weekend I completed the page proofs for Firefighter Daddy (July 2010) and sent them to my editor

four February Harlequin American Romances were released yesterday—be sure to check them out

on Wednesday, February 24 I’ll be blogging with the Harlequin American Romance Authors—I hope you’ll join me!

Until next time,
Lee

Sunday Fun—Lee’s Bicycles

2010-02-07T07:19:00.000-08:00

You might remember me telling you that my husband gave me a bicycle for Christmas. A polka dot bike!

Isn’t it gorgeous? And it goes so nicely with my bookmarks!

I finally went out yesterday and bought a helmet and lights and a bell for the handlebar, and took the bike for a spin. The bike still needs a new seat—I want a big, wide white one—but still haven’ t found exactly what I’m looking for.

We also found this old coaster bike, and my husband is going to fix it up for me, too.

Someone added front brakes, which he will remove, and left it out in the rain, hence all the rust. He’s going to clean it up and give it a fresh coat of paint—and this one definitely needs a new seat! I still haven’t decided what color it should be. It’s currently a drab army green, but I’ll definitely go for something livelier than that. Any suggestions?

Until next time,
Lee

ETA:
Click here to see my refurbished coaster bike!

Sunday Fun - How Much Is That Doggie In The Window?

2010-01-24T07:59:00.000-08:00

Woof, woof!

Today is my blog day with the Harlequin American Romance Authors. If you have a moment, please drop by and check out some fun photos from our vacation in San Francisco.

Until next time,
Lee

Tuesday News

2010-01-12T08:05:00.000-08:00

I'm writing like crazy and that means I won’t be posting very often this month. More than once in a blue moon, though.

Speaking of blue moons, how cool was it that we got to wrap up the decade with a blue moon on New Years Eve 2009? I was in San Francisco and snapped this photo on December 30, when an almost blue moon was shining on Macy’s Christmas tree in Union Square. I’m glad I took this picture when I did because the next night - New Years Eve - was overcast. If I had waited, I would have missed my chance.

Today is Harlequin American Romance release day, which means you’ll find four wonderful new reads on the shelves. To find out what you have to look forward to, please click here to visit the eHarlequin website.

Happy reading!

Until next time,
Lee

Tuesday News

2010-01-05T06:59:00.000-08:00

I have been holidaying in San Francisco since Christmas—part pleasure and part research for my next book—and while it’s great to be back home, I am now way behind on many things, including blogging.

Over the next week or so I’ll post a Christmas recap—wait till you see my gift from my husband!—and a couple of San Francisco blogs.

If you’re a regular reader of the Wet Noodle Posse, you may already know that The Posse has made the difficult decision to wrap up the blog. We’ll miss our readers, but you’ll still find most of us elsewhere on the web.

Did you make a new year’s resolution?

My only resolution is to continue clearing out my office, which had a bit of a backward slide in the weeks leading up to the holiday. I’ll continue to post updates here, mostly to keep myself accountable.

Happy New Year!

Until next time,
Lee

It's 2010 and the winner is . . .

2010-01-01T09:43:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

I had my husband draw a name, and the winner of the autographed firefighter calendar, an adorable firetruck Christmas tree ornament, and some mouth-wateringly delicious Ghirardelli chocolate is . . . Ellen E!

Congratulations, Ellen! Please send me your mailing address via my website and I will mail your prize this week.

I've been on a bit of blogging hiatus but will be back on Monday with some fun stories about the holidays! Until then, I'm wishing you all the best for 2010!

xoxo
Lee

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T08:09:00.001-08:00

Wishing you a wonderful Christmas filled peace, joy and love.

Until next time,
Lee

PS: I hope Santa enjoyed his milk and cookies at your house and has reciprocated in kind!

This Week with the Wet Noodle Posse

2009-12-21T07:18:00.000-08:00

The Posse is taking a break next week, so this will be the final week of Home for the Holidays.

Monday: Pam Payne—TBA

Tuesday: Theresa Ragan—TBA

Wednesday: Delle Jacobs—A Video Christmas Card

Thursday: Karen Potter—TBA

Friday: Special Holiday Greeting from the Wet Noodle Posse

Happy holidays!

Until next time,
Lee

Sunday Fun—New Bookmark

2009-12-20T17:27:00.000-08:00

As promised on Thursday, here’s my new bookmark for Firefighter Daddy (July 2010), set in San Francisco's Haight-Ashbury neighborhood. The designer added a couple of subtle light-blue flowers to some of the polka dots on the front.

I won’t see the cover art for quite a few months, so I gave the designer a brief description of the heroine and her van, and this is what he came up with.

What do you think?

I absolutely love it!

As always, if you’d like me to send a bookmark to you, please send your mailing address to :
lee (at) lee mckenzie (dot) com.

Happy holidays!

xoxo
Lee

PS: Remember that my firefighter calendar contest is running throughout the month of December, and every time you post a comment on one of this month’s posts, your name will be entered in the draw. To increase your chances, you’ll receive five bonus entries if you become a follower of my blog (click on the link in the sidebar) and ten bonus entries if you sign up for Lee McKenzie’s Very Occasional Newsletter. To sign up for the newsletter, simply send an email to lee (at) lee mckenzie (dot) com. I know you know the drill—remove the spaces and insert the symbols.

This Week’s News

2009-12-17T07:20:00.000-08:00

I have new bookmarks for Firefighter Daddy and I absolutely love them! I’ll be picking them up from the printer this afternoon and then I’ll scan one and post it here on the blog.

December is usually a non-writing month for me because I devote a huge amount of time to Christmas preparations, but this year is different. I spend at least a half hour or so every day working on the second book in my San Francisco series, and I’m really loving these two characters. I say that about every book, but this time their conflicts seem completely natural.

Work on my office also continues. This week I gave away two sets of plastic stacking trays and seven more cardboard magazine files. I’m happy to report that the contents of said trays and files are also history. I had a laptop network card—someone gave it to me for my old laptop—but I never used it. A friend posted it on a loop that advertises free stuff and the network card now has a new home.

I hope you're looking forward to the holidays as much as I am!

Until next time,
Lee

This Week with the Wet Noodle Posse

2009-12-15T07:14:00.000-08:00

Join the Wet Noodle Posse this week as we head “Home for Holidays.”

Monday: MJ Fredrick—Favorite Christmas Songs

Tuesday: Priscilla Kissinger—Family Reunions for the Holidays

Wednesday: Debra Holland—TBA

Thursday: Merrillee Whren—TBA

Friday: Q&A Day—What sort of books would you like to see on the shelves in 2010?

Until next time,
Lee

‘Tis the season . . .

2009-12-13T08:01:00.000-08:00

I encountered this group of elementary school Christmas carollers, complete with Santa hats, while out shopping on Friday afternoon. Within minutes they attracted a crowd, and those lovely young soprano voices put me right in the spirit when they sang “Silent Night.”

"Silent Night" was grandmother’s favorite Christmas carol. When I was a little girl, I remember her telling me that she felt a bit homesick during her first Christmas in Canada. She had immigrated from Finland in 1923. When she heard “Silent Night” on the radio, she didn’t know the lyrics but she recognized the tune and felt more at home.

While I’m on the subject of Christmas and shopping, how about a stocking stuffer for the readers on your list?

With This Ring is available in three electronic formats (Adobe PDF eBook (requires Adobe Digital Editions), Microsoft eBook and Mobipocket eBook) from eHarlequin.com.

Or, if you or someone you know has a Kindle, With This Ring is available from Amazon.com. According to the website, you can “read your book on your Kindle within a minute of placing your order.”

How’s that for instant gratification?

And remember, you have a chance to kick off the new year as the winner of my December contest. In addition to an autographed firefighter calendar, the winner will also receive an adorable shiny red firetruck Christmas tree ornament, and more! Check here for contest details.

Until next time,
Lee

Light up the Holidays!

2009-12-10T06:20:00.000-08:00

Want to try your hand at a little holiday DIY? Looking for an easy, fun and inexpensive craft project? Please join me over at the Wet Noodle Posse today!

Until next time,
Lee

Tuesday News

2009-12-08T07:12:00.000-08:00

Between writing, clearing out my office and holiday prep, there’s lots going on here.

I’m currently working with my graphic designer to come up with new bookmarks for Firefighter Daddy. It’ll be months before I see the cover, so we’re looking for some fun ‘60s-inspired clip art to use instead.

Not this clip art, but you get the idea!

Oh, and I now have the exact release date—July 13, 2010—so mark your calendar!

Why I have so much paper in my office is unclear, but my shredder has been working overtime.

I hope you’ll join me over at the Wet Noodle Posse on Thursday. In keeping with the Posse’s “Home for the Holidays” theme, I’m posting a fun and easy craft idea.

My Firefighter Calendar Contest is in full swing. Every time you post a comment on one of my December posts here on The Writer Side of Life, your name will be entered in the draw. To increase your chances, you’ll receive five bonus entries if you become a follower of my blog (click on the link in the sidebar) and ten bonus entries if you sign up for Lee McKenzie’s Very Occasional Newsletter. To sign up for the newsletter, simply send an email to lee (at) lee mckenzie (dot) com. I know you know the drill—remove the spaces and insert the symbols.

Have a wonderful week!

Until next time,
Lee

This Week with the Wet Noodle Posse

2009-12-07T07:20:00.000-08:00

Come “Home for the Holidays” with the Wet Noodle Posse.

Monday: MJ Fredrick—Favorite Christmas Books

Tuesday: Terry McLaughlin—TBA

Wednesday: Maureen Hardegree—Stocking Stuffing Tradition

Thursday: Lee McKenzie—Light up the Holidays

Friday: Q&A—What makes a story ending satisfying to you as a reader?

I hope you'll join me there on Thursday!

Until next time,
Lee

Sunday Fun—Meet Lily

2009-12-06T07:56:00.000-08:00

Several weeks ago, while traveling to Susan Wiggs’ writing workshop in Vancouver, I met a delightful woman on the ferry. Her name is Lily, she’s a poet, and she’s turning 94 in a couple of weeks. Lily was on her way to a wedding at which she would be reading some of her poetry.

After a bit of writerly chat, she graciously agreed to pose for a photograph. Here she is, holding my business card and one of my bookmarks, which we both thought went rather well with her outfit.

I especially love her hat. I can’t remember everything that’s on it but there’s a charming little blue and green bird perched right on top. When I'm 94, I'm going to wear a hat exactly like that.

Lily invited me to visit her, so we exchanged contact information and now I’m looking forward to tea with a fellow writer.

Until next time,
Lee

December Contest

2009-12-05T07:25:00.000-08:00

To celebrate the upcoming (July 2010) release of my next book, Firefighter Daddy, I’m running a contest here on The Writer Side.

The prize? A copy of the 2010 Greater Victoria Firefighter Calendar, autographed by all twelve calendar guys. And I'll throw in some other goodies, too.

All calendar proceeds will be donated to charity, and the goal is to raise $50,000!

My calendar contest will run throughout the month of December. Every time you post a comment on one of this month’s posts, your name will be entered in the draw. To increase your chances, you’ll receive five bonus entries if you become a follower of my blog (click on the link in the sidebar) and ten bonus entries if you sign up for Lee McKenzie’s Very Occasional Newsletter. To sign up for the newsletter, simply send an email to lee (at) lee mckenzie (dot) com. I know you know the drill—remove the spaces and insert the symbols.

The winner will be announced here on The Writer Side on January 1, and what a great way to kick off the new year!

Drop by often and help me celebrate the holidays!

Until next time,
Lee

Friday Food for Thought—Two Kinds of Cranberries

2009-12-04T07:38:00.000-08:00

Have you started planning your holiday menu?

Christmas dinner at my house is a traditional affair and not a lot of room for introducing new dishes. My family expects turkey with bread stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy, and two kinds of cranberries to satisfy various tastes.

Yes, two kinds of cranberries.

Every year I buy a bag of fresh cranberries and follow the recipe on the bag of the bag. Don’t quote me, but I think it calls for the entire bag of cranberries, a cup of sugar and a cup of water, brought to a boil and simmered for about ten minutes. It’s always served in an old pink depression glass sugar bowl that belonged to my grandmother.

I also buy a can of cranberry jelly. The jelly is removed from the can in a log, sliced into rounds, arranged on a small stainless steel tray and garnished with sprigs of parsley.

Yes, that’s a lot of cranberries for one meal.

How many people do I feed?

Six or eight.

Another tradition at my house is to freeze all the leftover cranberry sauce and jelly and have it for Easter.

Until next time,
Lee

This Week’s News

2009-12-03T08:00:00.000-08:00

Busy couple of weeks, which has resulted in my having ignored the blog just a little. Happy to say the revised book has been submitted and I’m back to work on the sequel. Perfect timing because now I can focus on Christmas preparations. Those of you who know me will also know that this is my favorite time of the year.

Right now I’m dabbling with a new and super-easy holiday craft project and will be blogging about it with the Wet Noodle Posse next week—Thursday, December 10.

My office overhaul got stalled while I was working on revisions, but it’s now back in full swing. This week I’m back to work on the storage closet, which is currently storing way too much stuff.

Speaking of offices, I just discovered See Jane Work, a fabulous online store with loads of fun stuff for organizing and decorating the workspace. Here are a few of my favorites.

Round magnetic bulletin boards

Magnetic wall pocket organizer

Colorful labels

Can you tell I love polka dots?

I swear I will not buy any new storage or organizational items until my office has been complete decluttered, but a girl can dream!

This month I will be running a contest here on The Writer Side and the prize will be an autographed 2010 firefighter calendar. Details will posted here on Saturday, so stay tuned!

Until next time,
Lee

This Week with the Wet Noodle Posse

2009-11-30T06:57:00.000-08:00

Wrap up November by “giving thanks” with the Wet Noodle Posse, and then join in the fun as we kick off December with our Home for the Holidays theme.

Monday: Debra Holland—TBA

Tuesday: Introduction to Home for the Holidays Theme

Wednesday: MJ Fredrick—Favorite Christmas Shows

Thursday: Maureen Hardegree—Tinsel on the Tree

Friday: Q&A Day—What holiday traditions does your family follow?

Until next time,
Lee

This Week's Tuesday News

2009-11-25T07:00:00.000-08:00

This week’s Tuesday News is being served up a day late.

I’m in the final stages of revising a book, so I was torn over whether or not to attend a workshop—Creating a Book Map—presented by Susan Wiggs on the weekend. In the end I decided to go and I’m so glad I did because the timing was perfect. The focus was on story structure, and I’m now tweaking this book to make sure it has one!

Susan is a wonderful speaker and if you have a chance to attend one of her workshops, you should go for it.

My office overhaul got stalled this week, although I did dispose of a pile of magazines that had taken up residence.

Can you believe that Christmas is one month away? I hope to squeeze a couple of craft fairs into my busy weekend. Next week, after I have turned in my revised book, I can start decorating!

Wishing a happy Thanksgiving to my American family, friends and readers!

Until next time,
Lee

This Week with the Wet Noodle Posse

2009-11-23T07:35:00.000-08:00

The Wet Noodle Posse finds more ways to give thanks this week.

Monday: Trish Milburn/Tricia Mills sends out “10 Totally Frivolous Thank Yous”

Tuesday: Theresa Ragan—TBA

Wednesday: Delle Jacobs—“Eat Your Peas”

Thursday: Karen Potter shares a “Happy Thanksgiving Poem”

Friday: Q&A Day—What are the challenges in writing a scene with a lot of people, such as a scene set during a Thanksgiving Dinner?

Have a wonderful week!

Until next time,
Lee

Tuesday News

2009-11-17T07:13:00.000-08:00

Things I’m doing this week:

revising Firefighter Daddy

working on the next book

attending a Susan Wiggs writing workshop

clearing out my office

The progress on my office was slow this week, but I freed up more space on one bookshelf, gave a bag of writing books to a friend and a bundle of file folders and a stack of magazine files to another friend.

The Christmas season is fast approaching and I found some great things at a craft fair on the weekend:

homemade antipasto

pickled beets

red pepper jelly

two catnip cat toys

an adorable candle lamp made from a wine glass, a tealight and a paper lampshade

If you missed my Sunday Fun post about the shirtless firefighters and my December contest, please scroll down and check it out!

Until next time,
Lee

This Week with the Wet Noodle Posse

2009-11-16T07:17:00.000-08:00

Here’s what the Wet Noodle Posse is Giving Thanks for this week:

Monday: Diane Gaston—Thanks to Harlequin

Tuesday: Priscilla Kissinger—Family Get-Togethers, Even the Dysfunctional Ones

Wednesday: Merrillee Whren—Thankful for Airplanes

Thursday: Maureen Hardegree—Thanksgiving Napkin Ring Craft

Friday: Q&A—What’s your favorite feasting scene from a movie?

Have a great week!

Until next time,
Lee

Sunday Fun—What Would You Do...?

2009-11-15T07:48:00.000-08:00

If you were at the mall and encountered a group of firefighters signing calendars, what would you do?

I stopped to buy a couple of calendars and have the guys autograph them.

Then, if you were a romance author who had a blog, what would you do?

After having the calendars signed, I decided to take a couple of photographs to post here on The Writer Side.

So I got my husband to hold my bag of calendars, found a good vantage point for taking photos, and before I could snap even one picture...they took off their shirts.

Seriously.

Well, I’m sure you would have done the same thing I did.

I snapped these.

The last one's a little out of focus. I guess my hands were getting shaky.

My husband was having a good laugh by the time I rejoined him, and I was congratulating myself for having such impeccable timing.

The calendar is great, by the way...you can take a sneak peek here...and all proceeds go to charity.

So...to celebrate the July 2010 release of my next Harlequin American Romance—Firefighter Daddy—I’ll be running a contest throughout December here on The Writer Side of Life. Contest details will be posted here on December 5 and the lucky winner will be announced on December 31.

What would you do for a chance to win an autographed 2010 firefighter calendar?

I hope you’ll enter my contest!

Until next time,
Lee

The Lighter Side of Life

2009-11-12T07:12:00.000-08:00

I'm blogging with the Wet Noodle Posse today, and sharing a few of my favorite YouTube videos. I hope you'll drop by and tell me about yours!

Until next time,
Lee

Tuesday News

2009-11-10T07:41:00.000-08:00

Things I’m doing this week, in no particular order:

meeting with my critique group

revising Firefighter Daddy

attending a Christmas craft fair

blogging with the Wet Noodle Posse on Thursday

clearing out my office

The work on my office continues. So far this week I have cleared out:

10 stacking trays

17 cardboard magazine files

1 large box of books

a blue box full of paper to be recycled

Since eliminating stuff and clutter is my goal, I also have to eliminate the things I would use to store the stuff and clutter. So the trays and magazine files will find new homes and the books will go a secondhand bookstore.

I’m making progress!

Until next time,
Lee

This Week with the Wet Noodle Posse

2009-11-09T10:13:00.000-08:00

This week the Wet Noodle Posse is Giving Thanks for:

Monday: Trish Milburn/Tricia Mills—Thankful for the Little Things

Tuesday: Terry McLaughlin—Lessons

Wednesday: Maureen Hardegree—Top Ten Tips for Writing Thank You Notes

Thursday: Lee McKenzie—Family and Friends

Friday: Q&A Day—What foods can't you pass up on the Thanksgiving table?

Until next time,
Lee

Sunday Fun—Archie

2009-11-08T08:32:00.000-08:00

Say hello to Archie. Archie is a BoShih, which is what you get when you breed a Boston terrier and a Shih Tzu.

One ear is perpetually perked, the other flops. His tail is as straight as a pencil and looks as though it’s been dipped in white paint. He's one of the sweetest and most energetic little dogs I have ever seen, he never barks, and although he’s only six months old, he’s already quite well trained.

Archie and his master often play ball on the lawn of a government building where I sometimes do temp work. In this photo, Archie is waiting for his master to throw his yellow ball, which he will chase and retrieve so it can be thrown again. And again, and again.

A visit with Archie always brightens my day.

Until next time,
Lee

Lee’s Office, continued

2009-11-05T10:04:00.000-08:00

Remember when computer software came in a great big box with several manuals and a dozen floppy disks that took more than an hour to load?

Remember when documents and data were stored on floppy disks that had to be labeled and stored in boxes that took up valuable real estate on your desk?

I’m guessing that all of this:

can now be stored on one of these:

I love technology almost as much as I love reclaiming all that valuable real estate.

Until next time,

Lee

Tuesday News—Writing and Dreaming

2009-11-03T08:29:00.000-08:00

November is NaNoWriMo—National Novel Writing Month—and many writers plan to write a novel (50,000 words) in thirty days. That works out to about six and a half pages every day, which really doesn’t sound like all that much.

I wish I could do this, but I can’t. The process simply doesn’t work for me. I have tried writing a first draft from start to finish without editing or revising as I go, and have ended up with an overwhelming mess, much of which has to be cut. So I will continue with my pattern of working on the new book and revising Firefighter Daddy.

If you've been following my blog lately, you know I'm also “revising” my office, a little at a time. A fellow writer recently suggested that, as an added incentive, I should create a vision of what I’d like to have in my dream office. I’ve been daydreaming about it my spare time, and have come up with one thing for sure.

I want a big cosy armchair and ottoman. A place where I can sit and lose myself in a book, or sprawl with my laptop and write.

Or maybe a comfy old chaise that has plenty of room for me and a couple of cats.

Good luck to everyone who’s taking part in NaNoWriMo, to everyone who’s plugging along at his or her own pace, and to everyone who's working to make daydreams come true.

Until next time,
Lee

This Week with the Wet Noodle Posse

2009-11-02T06:41:00.000-08:00

This month the Wet Noodle Posse explores the theme of Giving Thanks—everything from tips for writing a thank you note to fabulous recipes for a family feast. Here’s what’s on the menu this week:

Monday: Introduction to Giving Thanks

Tuesday: Five Things To Be Thankful For

Wednesday: Brownies—A Recipe Certain to Garner Thanks

Thursday: Movies with a Thankful Theme

Friday: Q&A Day—What are some novels and characters you’re thankful for?

Until next time,
Lee

Lee’s Office, continued

2009-11-01T07:55:00.001-08:00

Yesterday I rolled up my sleeves and got to work on the first set of shelves I described on Wednesday. So far I have:

packed up the old all-in-one printer, advertised it on a free website as was suggested by one commenter, and it was gone within two hours. I even delivered it!

earned $3 by returning the toner cartridge to Office Depot to be recycled. They didn’t give me cash, but it went on my Worklife Rewards as a credit. How cool is that?

sorted the books and filled a box with those I no longer need. The box is still here because I will be adding to it. Meanwhile, I will search out a secondhand book store that buys books.

filled my little blue box with paper

It would be great to dive in and work non-stop till this is done, but I’m also working on revisions plus writing a new book right now, and those are my priority. However, now that I’ve started clearing out a lot of the stuff I don’t need, I feel motivated to keep going.

Still to do:

sort the photographic slides and pack them away

find a home for all my freelance projects

admire all the empty shelfspace

Next up will be my storage closet. It’s filled with floor-to-ceiling shelves, and those are filled with a lot of stuff I don’t need and never use. The perfect home for archiving my freelance projects, if only there was room.

Until next time,
Lee

Food for Thought—Pumpkin Ale

2009-10-31T00:05:00.000-07:00

Happy Hallowe'en!

You might remmember that back in March, in honor of St. Patrick’s Day, I blogged with the Wet Noodle Posse about weird beer. I’ve recently discovered another "weird" one, made especially for Hallowe’en.

Crooked Tooth Pumpkin Ale, brewed by Phillips Brewery. This beer has a beautiful orange-amber color, an aroma that’s reminiscent of Grandma’s fresh-baked pumpkin loaf, and a smooth flavor that’s slightly sweet and subtly spicy. Perfect for a grownup Hallowe’en party.

Trick or treat, anyone?

Until next time,
Lee

Lee’s Office (part 3)

2009-10-29T07:49:00.001-07:00

A million thanks to everyone who left comments and shared their wisdom via private email. Some of that advice is so good, I just had to share.

“I don't think you need a professional organizer--you need to bribe one or more of your friends to come over for a day and help you. You can set up zones and do a few in the morning, break for a luxurious lunch someplace you both love (at your expense) and then spend the afternoon tackling the rest. And you can have keep, toss, and donate baskets set up so that you can make a decision and go on to the next thing. The one thing that is an absolute must is that you remove ALL of the recyclables, trash and items to be donated that day! Otherwise those things have a tendency to either migrate back to your shelves or sit there for months.”

And...

“After seeing these ‘pros’ on TV, I have a hard time seeing how they're worth the money. Promise yourself a gift to yourself with those hundreds of dollars IF you just do it yourself! Get organizing tips off the web and buckle down and organize on your own. I just think you need motivation.”

You are all brilliant!

I love the idea of the buddy system, especially since it involves lunch, and I also love the idea of rewarding myself with the money I save by doing this on my own! Stay tuned!

Until next time,
Lee

Lee’s Office (part 2)

2009-10-28T07:48:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I called a couple of home organizers to get an idea of what they can do for me and how much they’ll charge to do it. On the plus side, if I hire someone for six hours, we’ll book an appointment and I won’t be able to procrastinate my way out of it. On the minus side, it’ll cost several hundred dollars. I haven’t decided if I’ll hire one or not, but it’s under consideration.

Meanwhile I received several private emails from people who either didn’t believe my office was as bad as I claimed it was, or who thought it was probably even worse. Honestly, it couldn’t get much worse, but we’ll start with a photo of one of my bookshelves, which is one of the least problematic areas in my office.

On the floor:

an empty toner cartridge that has to be recycled

a basket of junk I don’t use (I honestly have no idea what’s in it)

Bottom shelf:

UPS unit (uninterrupted power supply)

two storage boxes (in use)

modem and router

an anthology of women’s literature

four stacking trays filled with printer paper, labels, overhead transparencies, envelopes

Second shelf:

the pile on the left: scanner, two empty storage boxes, a box of stationary and an old teddy bear

a storage box filled with promo stuff (bookmarks, biz cards, etc.)

two binders (white) filled with stuff I wrote as a freelancer

a magazine file filled with research material used when I was a freelancer

binders (black) filled with photographic slides from when I was a sessional lecturer in earth sciences

Third shelf:

printer (in use)

all-in-one fax machine (no longer in use, although the tray makes a handy paper caddy) and it’s accompanying telephone, which works when the power goes out

Fourth shelf:

a stack of recycled printer paper

books

a pile of photos on top of some of the books

assorted cat toys

Fifth shelf:

more books

Top shelf:

books I can’t reach—genealogy, gardening, plus a dozen issues of academic guidebooks for which I was the project editor

How much of this stuff do I actually use/need? Maybe twenty percent. Why do I have all this stuff? For one thing, I have the shelfspace for it. A lot of it seemed important when I put it there five or ten years ago, but I haven’t needed it since. Meanwhile, many things I do need and use are piled on desktops and the floor because I have no shelfspace for them.

For the rest of this week, I will ponder whether or not to hire a home/office organizer. If you or someone you know has worked with one, I’d love to hear about it.

Until next time,
Lee

Tuesday News—My Office Is a Disaster

2009-10-27T08:41:00.000-07:00

How's that for a headline?

I could come up with a long list of reasons and excuses for why it’s a disaster, but why bother? I’ve heard them all before. You’ve heard them all before. Maybe you even have a list of your own reasons and excuses for why things are the way they are.

Here’s the strange thing. The rest of my house is pretty well organized and clutter free, but my office has become a dumping ground.

A dumping ground for what, you ask?

Books, paper, shopping bags that might be handy some day, mementos, gadgets that used to work but no longer do, family photos, more books, more paper, knick knacks...

Wait a minute. Did I say knick-knacks?

I don’t even like knick-knacks. I don’t have knick-knacks anywhere else in my home, so how did all these pesky things find their way into my office?

And then there are the organizers. Those handy in and out trays, file boxes, plastic boxes that hold hanging files, etc., that are supposed to help me get organized. I have at least thirty-six of these things, and half of them are empty.

This chaos wastes my time and interferes with my creativity, and I’ve decided it’s time to take action. I might even call one of those home organizers to come in and help. I have taken some photos of this mess, but I’m too embarrassed to post them right now. I’ll hang onto them until I can do some before-and-after shots. Wish me luck!

Until next time,
Lee

This Week with the Wet Noodle Posse

2009-10-26T02:00:00.000-07:00

Can someone tell me where October went? The days are flying by! This is the Wet Noodle Posse’s last week of our “To Everything, Turn, Turn, Turn” theme, and here’s what we have line up for you:

Monday: Maureen Hardegree on “Turning Gray”
Tuesday: Merrillee Whren—TBA
Wednesday: Delle Jacobs—“The World Turned Upside Down”
Thursday: Karen Potter Breast talks about “Cancer Screening: Early Detection and Biopsies”
Friday: Q&A Day—What are you giving trick-or-treaters this year?

Have a wonderful week!

Until next time,
Lee

Food for Thought

2009-10-24T10:14:00.000-07:00

How do you make pancakes? From a mix or from scratch? That's the topic of my post today on the Harlequin American Romance Authors blog. Drop by if you can!

Until next time,
Lee

Firefighter Daddy—the setting

2009-10-22T12:43:00.000-07:00

I'm currently working on revisions to my next book for Harlequin American Romance—Firefighter Daddy—and of course that leads to a little extra research. The story was inspired by William R. de Avila Elementary School on Haight Street, just a few blocks from the famous Haight-Ashbury intersection, in San Francisco. As far as I know, it's no longer an elementary school and has most recently served as a satellite campus for a community college.

When I first saw the school, my initial thought was, what would it have been like to to be a student (and the product of hippie parents) at that school back in the '60s and '70s?

The answer to that question became Rory and Mitch's story in Firefighter Daddy.

I loved a couple of things about the school, including the absolutely gorgeous tile mosaic on the front of the building facing Haight Street, and the hopscotch courts and other play areas painted on the paved schoolyard. Believe it or not, hopscotch plays a significant role in the storyline. The playground is visible from the sidewalk on Waller Street and can also be seen in this satellite image from Google.

View Larger Map

Although I don't live anywhere near San Francisco, it sure is fun to zoom in and check out the neighborhood where Firefighter Daddy is set.

Click on "View Larger Map" to see the entire schoolyard. Can you recognize any of the other painted game courts in this playground?

Until next time,
Lee

Tuesday News

2009-10-20T08:33:00.000-07:00

On Saturday I attended the regular monthly meeting of one of my RWA chapters and took part in a fun and enlightening workshop based on the Writing the Breakout Novel workbook by Donald Maass. Plenty of food for thought as I forge ahead with my current project.

I’m also doing research for the new book. Now that the summer tourist season is over, I hope to have a chance to visit a winery or two and spend some time interviewing the proprietors.

Have you had a chance to check out the October releases from Harlequin American Romance?

Top Gun Dad by Ann DeFee
A Baby for Mommy by Cathy Gillen Thacker
Mistletoe Hero by Tanya Michaels
The Littlest Matchmaker by Dorien Kelly

You’ll find the covers and more posted on eHarlequin.com.

Happy reading!

Until next time,
Lee

This Week with the Wet Noodle Posse

2009-10-19T00:05:00.000-07:00

The Wet Noodle Posse’s theme—To Everything, Turn, Turn, Turn—continues this week.
http://wetnoodleposse.blogspot.com

Monday: Diane Gaston—TBA

Tuesday: Theresa Ragan—TBA

Wednesday: Maureen Hardegree with ideas for “Easy No-Sew Costumes”

Thursday: MJ Fredrick on “Favorite Scary Movies”

Friday: Q&A Day—What can writers do to improve the turning points in their stories?

Until next time,
Lee

The Writer Side of Life

2009-10-15T08:04:00.000-07:00

The writer side of life has been keeping me busy.

Three weekends ago I gave a workshop on "The Hero’s Journey: Creating Characters Hollywood Style."

Two weekends ago the Vancouver Island Chapter of RWA had a booth at a trade show—The BC Women’s Show—and I was busy with that.

Last week I submitted a partial (the first three chapters) of my second San Francisco book (the sequel to Firefighter Daddy, July 2010) to my editor.

And this past weekend I attended the Emerald City Writers Conference in Bellevue, WA.

I’m especially thrilled to share the news that my friend Jodie Esch’s YA manuscript, Almost Perfect, placed second in the Novel with Strong Romantic Elements category of the Emerald City Opener contest. After the results were announced at the Saturday luncheon, we met for a celebratory glass of wine in the hotel bar. Here’s Jodie (right) with her critique partner, Sharron Gunn.

Now that this whirlwind of activity is over, I look forward to settling into a quieter and much-slower-paced routine of writing, blogging and preparing for Christmas, which is just a little over two months away. Okay, maybe not such a slow pace, but quieter. I hope.

Until next time,
Lee

Tuesday News

2009-10-06T07:03:00.000-07:00

This weekend the Vancouver Island Chapter of Romance Writers of America took part in the BC Women’s Show, an annual trade show in Victoria. Hundreds of people stopped by to have a chocolate and chat about romance. It was heartwarming to meet so many enthusiastic readers, and to meet others who said they didn’t necessarily read many romance novels but would certainly pick up books by local authors.

Here are a couple of photos of the booth and a few of the writers who staffed it:

(l. to r.) Mimi Barbour, Daniela Hewson, Susan Lyons

(l. to r.) Mimi Barbour, Lee McKenzie, Susan Lyons

I gave away two “Afternoon Tea with Harlequin American Romance Authors” gift bags filled with a gorgeous mug, organic green tea from Silk Road, and books by Linda Warren, Cindi Meyers, Marin Thomas, Trish Milburn, Pamela Stone and, of course, me! Many thanks to my fellow Harlequin American Romance authors for generously donating copies of your books.

I wasn’t in the booth when one of the winners dropped by, but congratulations and happy reading to Valerie Wilson, winner of the second gift bag!

All in all a wonderful weekend for readers and writers alike!

Until next time,
Lee

This Week with the Wet Noodle Posse

2009-10-05T08:30:00.000-07:00

This month the Noodler’s theme is To Everything, Turn, Turn, Turn. We have lots of tasty and fun stuff lined up this week, as well as some chat about writing and RWA’s Golden Heart contest. Drop by the Wet Noodle Posse blog and join the fun!

Monday: Candy Corn Isn't What It Used to Be

Tuesday: Top Ten Tips for Turning a Pumpkin into a Jack-o-Lantern

Wednesday: Hot Buttered Cider

Thursday: Writing Turning Points

Friday: Q&A Day—What's the best reason why unpublished romance authors should enter the Golden Heart?

Until next time,
Lee