I’m in a deadline cave right now and comepletely forgot to write a blog this month, so with your indulgence, I’ll re-purpose a blog I wrote for the Sizzling Pens before we all moved over to the Blaze blog. I beg forgiveness if you’ve read it before, but it’s one of my favortites from Sept 09–freshened up.
To make up for my forgetfulness I think it only fair I give away a book. Anything from my backlist. (Only one I don’t have any of is LET IT RIDE)
And now, without further ado…
My husband and I got started on our family a little later in life, and as a result, my hubby will be 65 when our youngest graduates from high school. Needless to say, he doesn’t anticipate retiring then unless I, by some miracle, hit it big like Nora. Yeah, like I said.
But becoming the next Nora isn’t even a goal for me. I don’t aspire to be on the NYT bestseller list or even win a Rita. (Ok, I’d like to win a Rita, but I don’t see it happening) I just want to write a couple of sexy little romances every year and use the money to fix up my house and–my great love–travel.
Those of you who follow my blogs know I checked off a couple of big ones off my bucket list the past several summers: Disneyworld and DC. But there’s still so much more I want to do before I go “sing with the angels” as my mom always puts it.
There’s Europe, of course. London, Paris, the south of France, and Tuscany are on the “Must See” list.
Then there’s New York City, where I hope to go in 2015 when RWA has its National conference there.
I’d also like to take my family to see the Grand Canyon. Hubby went before he knew me. I’ve been too, before I knew him, but we’ve never been together and the kids have never seen it. And one more place I’d like to see someday is the Bahamas. I’d love to lie around the beach under a swaying palm tree and take in the brilliant turquoise waters lapping onto shore while Daniel Craig brings me another frozen Pina Colada. Ok, ok. I realize the Daniel Craig part is NOT going to happen.
In fact, none of these dreams may ever come true. But if I’m lucky, I’ll get to experience the really important things in life. Like my kids growing up to be happy, healthy adults. Maybe a wedding or two…or three. Maybe even a grandchild or two to spoil. But these are all just dreams I hope will come true. I can work toward making them happen, but when it’s all said and done I need to enjoy every day that comes along, and be grateful for my family who love me, (mom and sisters) my kids and hubby all home safe and sound, eating dinner together around the table on an ordinary weekday, squabbling about who’s turn it is to do the dishes. These times may not be on anyone’s Bucket List, but they are the moments that make up a lifetime of memories.

Today I have the privilege of interviewing drool-worthy Jason Baca, a sweet guy and a hunky cover model.Jason was born and raised in Los Gatos, CA. He started off wanting to be an actor, then realized he was terrible at it. But he was a natural at modeling. He’s posed for such prominent magazines as Exercise & Health, Men’s Workout Magazine, Inspire Quarterly, and, our favorite, Romantic Times Magazine!
Jason enjoys anything athletic and can often be found at his local health club or on his bike somewhere. He’s a private person most of the time so I feel very lucky Jason agreed to share a little about himself today.
Welcome to the Blaze blog, Jason! How’d you get started in the modeling business?
Jason- Well I was discovered when on location for the movie, I KNOW WHAT YOU DID LAST SUMMER. The photographer of the movie asked if he could take some photos for his camera as a set up for the main actors. When those photos were developed a photographer that worked at the lab saw them and asked if he could use me as a model. From there… shoots came in easily.
Juliet: I imagine it takes a lot of discipline to maintain such a fabulous bod. What is your fitness and skincare regime like?
Jason- Yes actually it does. When I awaken I immediately put on an ice pack to rid my face of any puffyness or tiredness. I leave that on for 7 minutes during which time I stretch. Then I shave using Gilette’s Fushion Proglide which gives me a smooth clean shave. In shower I begin with Olay’s Spa Exfoliating Body Wash Plus. Then I use Tree Hut’s Shea Body Wash combined with Olay’s Restore Rosemary & Jasmine Body wash. I lather and rinse. Then I apply St.Ives “Mineral Therapy” Body wash which is an intense moisturizing wash that rejuvenates my skin and replenishes nutrients the skin loses daily. For my face I use Clean & Clear’s morning burst apricot scrub followed by an aloe moisturizing beauty bar. After the shower, I use Loreal’s Anti-Dark Circle eye moisturizer for men, then K Laboratories Daily Anti-Age Moisturizer w/ green tea. For around the eyes where you often see crow’s feet appear, I apply Dermitage’s Eye Balm which is also an anti-wrinkle ointment. Then Clinique’s Dramatically Different moisturizing lotion. Then final protective lotion from The Body Shop which is a daily defense against environmental aggressors. Jason – After I’ve completed my morning ritual, I make my way to the local health club where I usually perform a rigorous workout for approximately 1 hour making sure to give it all I’ve got for that particular day. I do a little bit for my body each day which is one of my secrets to success.
Juliet: You’ve been in several blockbuster movies, Flubber, I Know What You Did Last Summer, and The New World. What was that experience like?
Jason – Well, I wasn’t an actor in these. I had the luxury of being able to be around all of them as a double. I made a lot of friends from all different walks of life. It was a neat experience, but one I won’t return to. I never enjoyed being a double. They treat you differently than if you are the lead actor. I didn’t need that, and felt very less than.
Juliet: Tell us about your nickname, “Chewy”.
Jason – haha… well it is short for Chewbacca…from Star Wars. When I was in little league baseball our coach gave all of us a nick name. Mine being chewy. That name stuck all through high school. Even now, when I run into those baseball friends, they still call me Chewy.
Juliet: Is it true you’ve dated Jennifer Love Hewitt? Or does being a gentleman prohibit you from commenting?
Jason – I will say that she and I got along for a period of time up there in Bodega Bay, CA during the filming of I Know What You Did Last Summer. She was a wonderful girl and enjoyed singing Doo Wop Doo Doo Doo Wop by Hansen to me in her Honey Wagon back then
Juliet: Posing for magazines seems like an exciting career, but you’re the perfect kind of man to be a hero on a Blaze cover. Would you consider modeling for Harlequin?
Jason: Oh I certainly would love to. They can reach me straight through my agency here – http://www.hmmodels.com/model.asp?modelID=395
Juliet: If an independent publisher or author would like to get a hold of your stock, is there a link to that?
Jason – Yes there is, any stock photos that were not used on shoots in the past end up here and are available for covers as well – http://www.theauthorsredroom.com/stock-photography/jason-baca/
Jason, thank you so much for stopping by today. I’m looking forward to seeing you on a Blaze cover soon. Does anyone have any questions for Jason? If he’s not gone to a modeling shoot today, he should be available to answer.

Today I turn fifty. Wow. That’s going to take a while to sink in. I feel young on the inside. But, though I really miss my energetic, thinner, more limber 20 year old body, I can’t complain. I’m wiser now. More content. And having lived fifty years gives one a perspective that is more hopeful.
There’s a lot to be worried about in this world. Teens committing suicide from bullying. Wall Street and corporate greed. So many people out of work and losing their homes. Politicians lying and only serving themselves. Some days it seems like there’s nothing good left in this world.
Then the other night, I went to my daughter’s Jr. High school parent orientation. I listened as teachers, coaches, choir teachers, and band leaders talked with such enthusiasm about their jobs. Even the principal seemed excited about teaching teenagers. I couldn’t believe it, but I could tell they were genuine in their joy. Some of the teens from the choir sang, a few “steppers” performed and these kids were good. Teenagers! Aren’t they all supposed to be disrespectful, spoiled, drug addicted bullies? Maybe we feel that way because so often we only hear about the troubled ones. What’s that old news adage? “If it bleeds, it leads?” But if we look around we can notice small acts of kindness, people giving of themselves, helping each other. Families struggling through hard times and still loving each other. So, today I’m giving myself the birthday gift of hope. I choose to keep believing in the good things in this world. I believe that right will win over evil, and that love will triumph over hate and fear. And isn’t that what Romance novels are all about? Love wins in the end. If you want help feeling hopeful, listen to the new song by country artist Dierks Bentley Homehere
If you don’t have time to listen to the whole thing, here are words:
West, on a plane bound west, I see her stretching out below
Land, blessed motherland. The place where I was born
Scars, yeah she’s got her scars. Sometimes it starts to worry me
Cause lose, I don’t wanna lose Sight of who we are
From the mountains high To the wave crashed coast
There’s a way to find Better days I know
It’s been a long hard ride Got a ways to go
But this is still the place That we all call home
Free, nothing feels like free Though it sometimes means we don’t get along
Cause same, no we’re not the same But that’s what makes us strong
Brave, gotta call it brave To chase that dream across the sea
Names, and they signed their names For something they believed
Red, how the blood ran red And we laid our dead in sacred ground
Just think, wonder what they think If they could see us now
It’s been a long hard ride And I won’t lose hope
This is still the place That we all call home
And oh yeah! My new Blaze, Once a Hero… is on shelves now! My hero and heroine both learn to hope again.
Tell me something you’re hopeful about and I’ll send one of you a copy!

Today I won’t be able to respond to comments because I’m out of town for the weekend on an annual retreat with my 2 critique partners.
I look forward to this retreat all year long. It’s fun getting away from my usual routine, and there’s always good food and wine and sitting by the fireplace chilling out.
We arrive late Friday afternoon and get settled into our rooms, then meet in the kitchen to catch up with all the non-writing news each of us want to share over chips, salsa, and homemade guacamole, (and wine, of course) And then we get to work.
With only 3 of us, we each get a 4-5 hours long session where we all 3 concentrate only on that person’s writing needs. One session Friday night. One Saturday morning into the afternoon, then we break and go out to dinner, then another session Saturday night. Sunday morning is reserved for anyone to address anything they’ve thought of since their session.
One can use a session to plot an entire book, or plot the bare-bones of a trilogy proposal, or to figure out a difficult black moment and resolution, and then just brainstorm ideas for a new proposal. Sometimes we might even use a session to talk about our writing life in general, deal with burn out, or changing strategies or goals, or even taking a time-out from writing.
The retreat helps start the year out renewing my love for writing, energizing my excitement for plots and stories, and generally refreshing and de-stressing my life. I love talking about writing with other writers. But especially with my 2 critique partners. We’ve been together now for 10 years! I can’t believe it. We’ve grown to be not only really good critique partners, but very close friends. We talk with each other weekly, if not daily, and we’ve all been there for each other through the good and the bad times. I can’t imagine my life without my 2 CPs. And I know I’ve said this many times before, but, Linda, Pam, I wouldn’t be published without you. I love you both.
HAPPY 10TH ANNIVERSARY, LPJ!!!!
To celebrate my 10th anniversary with Pam and Linda I’m giving away a copy of my NEWEST BLAZE (It doesn’t even come out until March!) ONCE A HERO… to a random commenter. I’ll announce the winner as soon as I get back in town Sunday night or Monday morning.

Once a hero…always a hero
Subject: Captain Luke Andrews, M.D.
Current Status: On stress leave in beautiful Hawaii
Mission: Rest and recovery
Obstacle: There’s no rest from the wicked chemistry
Mission: Rest and recovery
Obstacle: There’s no rest from the wicked chemistry
he’s found with her

Captain Luke Andrews has to get some serious R & R,
but he can’t keep his hands off Kristen. She’s wild
and irresistible, and spending his nights with her
seems more dangerous than his last mission.
But is their hot little vacation romp an escape from
real life…or will the survivor and the hero battle it
out and learn to live each day as a gift?

In the Catholic church, the Christmas season has only just begun. The four weeks leading up to December 25th, liturgically speaking, is called Advent.
Advent is a time of waiting, of preparing. The first Sunday of Advent the scripture is usually John the Baptist calling out to the people, “Prepare ye the way of the Lord!”
And as adults, it’s all about preparing. Decorations, shopping, wrapping, mailing out cards, baking, cooking, and cleaning.
But as a kid, it was all about the waiting. I couldn’t wait for Christmas morning. And the waiting seemed to take forever. The month of December seemed to creep by one slow second at a time. Waiting and waiting for that wondrous day to come.
Now? Days fly by and my To Do list seems never ending. I wish for a personal assistant. Or a clone. And I tease my Jewish friend that I’m going to convert to Judaism.
Don’t get me wrong, I still love this magical season. I enjoy shopping for those perfect gifts and wrapping them with beautiful paper and bows. I love baking those special cookies and breads I only make at Christmas time.
But this month, I’ve been waiting eagerly every day for weeks and weeks for something. And I realized this anxious, nail-biting waiting, this longing for something to hurry up and get here was just how I used to feel as a kid waiting for Christmas morning.
Finally, the other day, I saw it for the first time. My NEW BLAZE COVER!
Isn’t it gorgeous? The book comes out in March and takes place on Maui and the background looks just like my research images. I’m a little anxious because I struggled with this story. Some books, (for me, it was Primal Calling) seemed to flow from my fingers like magic. Others seem to take their time in revealing themselves to me. But one thing I don’t have to worry about, thanks to the geniuses at the Harlequin Art Department (You all rock!) is the cover.
Anything you’ve been waiting for finally come or happen? Three commenters will win a copy of my September Blaze, NIGHT MANEUVERS!

This time last year I blogged about my list of things I’m grateful for. And that’s something that never gets old, I think. Being grateful, I mean. It’s so easy—especially in this economic recession—to feel depressed. To worry about losing a job, or to be scared because we’ve been laid off and haven’t been able to find another job. Nowadays it seems like we’re all just trying to keep our heads above water, just to pay the mortgage and put food on the table, much less afford Christmas or send a kid to college.
I’m not a worrier by nature and even I have been worried lately. I find myself looking around at the bankers who posted their “highest profits for the third quarter” and the Corporations like Exxon who make billions in profit and yet paid not ONE dime in taxes last year, or the famous 1% who make more money every year off the backs off the middle class, and I get angry.
But worry and anger are so negative they can be debilitating. If I let myself wallow in those negative emotions for long, I think I’d soon become a bitter old hag.
My only remedy is gratitude.
That old song from White Christmas still rings true today. “When you’re worried and you can’t sleep, just count your blessings instead of sheep.”
So, I have to remember to look around at all the true riches in my life. My loving husband, a mom who’s always there for me, three healthy children, and many really good friends who would always be there for me. You can’t put a price tag on any of them.
When I remember to be grateful, suddenly things become so simple. Worries take a back seat to enjoying the gifts I’ve been given. The people I love and who love me.
And when it’s all said and done, it’s really all about the love.
I’m wishing you all love and peace and simple gifts this Thanksgiving holiday.
Enjoy a simple beautiful song here:
Simple Gifts

In one interview I gave to my local RWA chapter soon after becoming published, I said I loved the 3 Cs: Chocolate, Cowboys and Country Music.
You might be thinking, Chocolate? YES! Cowboys? You bet!
But…Country music?
Yeah, I know. But Country music isn’t all Mamas, Truckers and Coon dogs nowadays. It’s very romantic. Very…inspirational.
For instance, watch this music video for a song by Chris Young.
Tomorrow
There are so many wonderfully masculine “hero” inspirations in those few minutes and I’m not just talking about a tight black shirt and a cowboy hat.
How about that moment when he looks up and clenches his fist.
You can see when he takes a deep breath, and I especially love it when he pushes off the doorframe.
And oh, that kiss.
But, you say, this is a sad song. Where’s the romance in that? Okay, so this particular video is more inspiration for the black moment. I’d love to take this mini-romance gone wrong, give the blonde and the cowboy a backstory, and goals, and motivation and conflicts and then write my own happy ending to poor Chris Young and his Tomorrow.
For another super sexy Country music video with a Happy Ending there’s Billy Currington’s Must Be Doing Something Right
And for love gone wrong in a humorous way, watch this one by the cutie pie of Country, Brad Paisley with his future wife , Kimberly Williamson.
I\'m Gonna Miss Her

So, do you listen to Country music? If not, have a made a convert out of you?

Usually when the subject of guilty pleasures comes up, and everyone starts naming something wicked or decadent they enjoy, I draw a blank.
Don’t get me wrong, it’s not that I don’t have vices. I do. It’s just that I don’t particularly feel guilty over them. Why should I? We’re all human. We all have flaws, bad habits, or what I like to call NEEDS. As long as I’m not hurting anyone else, why feel guilty?
However, I must confess to one guilty pleasure I’ve acquired over the past couple of years: DROP DEAD DIVA.
I’ve never been one to watch soaps. They’re a little over the top for me. I tend to like my drama more realistic and gritty (like Southland for instance) And I realize Drop Dead Diva has a paranormal plot. But the MOST believable part of this show so far has been that a skinny model’s soul has been sent into a full-figured attorney’s body. The attorney meets with the client one day and they’re in court the next. I’ve been involved in a lawsuit. 2 years, people. TWO years. And that was a settlement that never went to court. I don’t know how long we would’ve waited to get a court date.
But I digress.
In Drop Dead Diva, the protagonist has her own Guardian Angel, right? Except he becomes human and starts dating her best friend. I mean, really? Then her fiancé just happened to get hired in the law offices where she works, but he thinks she’s dead and she can’t tell him who she really is. And don’t even get me started on all the trial cases the heroine wins that are so out there…
But I LOVE it. I get happy looking forward to watching it. It’s fun and clever, and silly and exciting, and…maybe it’s because I’ve always been that fat girl. I just love to see a full-figured chick save the day, win the case, get the guy, and generally live a happy, fulfilling life. But, you might argue, the heroine is really a skinny model living inside the fat chick. But the skinny girl has to live as a full-figured woman. She learns about inner beauty when she’s judged for her weight. And as a full-figured woman, she learns not to let a little weight keep her from going after all the things she wants in life. It’s like walking a mile in someone else’s shoes. Literally. And couldn’t we all benefit from walking in the shoes of someone we might’ve previously judged?
PS: OMG! I just watched the Season finale! Omg omg omg
So what’s your Guilty Pleasure?

I’m so excited about the release of my September Uniformly Hot Blaze NIGHT MANEUVERS (The conclusion of the Las Vegas trilogy featuring Captain Mitch McCabe and Captain Alex Hughes) that I want to celebrate in a BIG WAY. So, I thought it’d be fun to play a game where answering questions correctly about Mitch and Alex will win you a copy!
Since this couple was in the first two books of the trilogy, these questions will pertain to those two books, LET IT RIDE or SEDUCE AND RESCUE. The first TEN people to answer THREE questions correctly will win a copy of NIGHT MANEUVERS before it even hits the shelves! OK, are you ready? Here we go:

1. In Let It Ride, at the motor Speedway, how does Captain Alex Hughes wear her baseball cap?

10. Alex is from the Texas Panhandle. What city and/or state is Mitch from?
Good Luck, everyone!

Ack! I’ve been in my deadline cave the past several weeks, with a book due mid-August, and I completely missed my day to blog!
I’ve never done that before! I’m actually on my way to take youngest to her orthodontisdt appointment and so the the only way I can see to make it up to you is to give away some books!
OH and I’ll show off my BEAUTIFUL, GORGEOUS, EYE-CANDY COVER for the long-awaited end to my trilogy of Las Vegas Air Force elite team of air combat trainers, NIGHT MANEUVERS! The first book was LET IT RIDE, the second was SEDUCE AND RESCUE.
Anyway, back to giveaways, I’ll give away 5 books out to 5 randonly drawn commenters today. Oh, and look for Blaze 10th Anniversary Blogs all next month–lots of special things going on!