My Say What Blog Archives - Page 9 of 53

Jan 27th A Book/Movie/TV Show That Influenced My Life

Welcome to #L&SR’s Wednesday Weekly Blogging Challenge for January 26, 2021. Today’s topic is a book/movie/TV show that influenced my life. Several books, movies and/or TV shows have given me pause for various reasons. But one series, actually the first book in the series, Twilight, gave me a kick in the pants resulting in my journey down the road to a new career. Yep, it Influenced my life. Pull up a chair, grab a drink. Take your choice of a Chocolate Chip, Snickerdoodle, or Peanut Butter cookie from the plate and let me tell you how Twilight changed my life. No it wasn’t the sparkly vampires. LOL

First let me say, that it was a difficult time in my life. I’d just been downsized from my job of fourteen years. Seems I was at a crossroads and didn’t have any idea which way to go. I’d just finished reading the first book in the Twilight series and recommended it to my best friend, while telling her what had happened in my life. A few days later, she called and wasn’t pleased with my book suggestion. In fact her exact words were, “You write better than the author of that book.” Hence the book/movie/TV show that influenced my life. She along with my husband had been sounding boards for the novels that I wrote and left on the computer with a promise of someday.

Apparently, someday had come to call. I polished up one of my more promising manuscripts, A Demon’s Witch and sent it to several publishing houses, this was September of 2014. By November of 2014, I had a signed contract for publication with The Wild Rose Press and I never looked back. Fifteen books published and five years later, I’m still living my dream. Granted that dream of becoming a New York Times Best Selling Author hasn’t materialized yet, but…. in February of 2014, being a published author wasn’t on my radar either. LOL Strange how things happen. I guess reading that book was the catalyst of a major upheaval in my life. Any one that knows me, will tell you change is not something I embrace. In fact, most will say I was dragged from my warm fuzzy rut February of 2014, kicking and screaming and dropped into a new adventure that eventually resulted in living my dream as a full time published author.

Alas, I must return to my writing cave. Stay tuned! Chocolate Raspberry Magic release date been extended until April 2021. As I indicated, I’ve turned in the sixth book in A Demon’s Witch Series to my editor at The Wild Rose Press and I have a Contract!! Now the edits to begin. Yippee! AND A new project is well underway Wylder West Assignment. Keep an eye out for more information. Now let’s see what book/movie/TV show influenced the other authors in their life. LOL L&SR

Pssst… While you’re here, don’t forget to check out my paranormal romance/mysteries click here.

Click on the cover to read more or purchase.

A quick gander at my featured read this week, A Demon’s Witch. Betcha didn’t see that coming. LOL

Keeping a lid on all the paranormal beings inhabiting Washington D.C., is a daunting job. Bruce, a six hundred year old demon and the Territory Overlord of the Western Hemisphere, keeps his finger on the pulse of DC’s power players through the activities at his highly successful Wycked Hair Salon. His movie star good looks and body builder physique keeps his dance card full and the rumor mills running. Within these walls, his anonymity is safe, mostly.
Bruce’s world spins out of control when Angelique, a pint size, gorgeous witch, with an attitude breezes through the doors of his salon. She is the younger sister of Tristian, Bruce’s long time trusted enforcer, whose professional skills are second to none. Tristian is furious at the relationship between Bruce and Angelique, a dangerous situation, but something darker awaits them all. Yet undeniable attraction between demon and witch promises to tear apart both their professional and personal worlds.

A peek between the pages of A DEMON’S WTICH– (the hook)

A feeling of dark foreboding, like storm clouds forming on the horizon before a violent storm, washed over Bruce as he maneuvered the SUV into the parking lot behind The Krystal Unicorn.

Tristian was already there and it wasn’t to give his report. Bruce could feel the fury in Tristian’s magic signature hanging in the air. A silver tipped arrow penetrated the windshield, split the arm securing the rearview mirror, and stuck in the headrest a quarter inch from Bruce’s neck. Blue liquid oozed from the tip and a stream of red mist escaped from the other end of the arrow.

“Hold your breath and don’t open the door or windows. The influx of fresh air will spread the poison.” He hissed though his teeth not daring to take a breath.

Air pressure inside the vehicle changed, Angie’s head felt like it was going to explode. “Bruce.” She whispered into his mind, a benefit of being mated.

“I know, just a few seconds more, I’ve got it handled.” His deep smooth voice floated reassuringly in her mind, as he reached over caressing her shoulder.

The pressure eased and the red mist sucked in on itself disappearing along with the oozing liquid. He pulled the arrow from the headrest, fingering the hole in the upholstery.

Through gritted teeth, Bruce growled. “His first mistake was that he missed me. His second deadly mistake was he risked your life. That is unforgivable.” Those two things also told Bruce that Tristian wasn’t thinking clearly, fury was coloring his judgment. That gave Bruce an edge, though the attack caught him off guard. He hadn’t expected Tristian’s attack to put his sister at risk.

Hope to see you next week when we’ll explore aa few of my favorite things. How about you? What are a few of your favorite things?

Posted in My Say What Blog and tagged #L&SR's #Wednesday's Blog Challenge, A Demon's Witch, Beauty Salon, Demons, Paranormal Romance/Mystery, Tena Stetler, Washington DC, Witches by Tena Stetler with 19 comments.

Jan 20th Something I Collected As A Child #L&SR Blogging Challenge

Happy New Year! Welcome to #L&SR’s Wednesday Weekly Blogging Challenge January 20, 2021. Today’s topic is “Something I Collected As A Child”. Pull up a chair, grab a drink of your choice. Take your choice of a Chocolate Chip, Snickerdoodle, or Peanut Butter cookie from the plate and lets take a peek something I collected as as child.

First of all I was an only child. Contrary to the stereotype not all only children are spoiled. I was raised by a single parent, my mom, who worked a lot of hours just to make ends meet and put food on the table. I spent a lot of time with babysitters and on my own as I grew up, which explains my answer. However, as a child, I collected little bottles. Strange huh? I had all shapes, sizes, and colors. Sometimes I filled them with tiny colored beads, water with food coloring in it, others simply with sand I could pour from bottle to bottle pretending to be a pharmacist with magic elixirs to restore health to anyone. Weird, I know. But not for a child with severe asthma who wished so badly that she could go outside and play with the other kids. I guess that’s probably why I made up imaginary playmates, turned them into characters, and created stories for them as soon as I was old enough put pencil to paper. But I digress. How about you, what is something that you collected as a child? Tell me about it in the comments. I’d love to know.

Alas, I must return to my writing cave. Stay tuned! Chocolate Raspberry Magic release date been extended until April 2021. I’ve turned in the sixth book in A Demon’s Witch Series to my editor at The Wild Rose Press and I have a contract!! Now the edits to begin. Yippee! AND A new project is well underway Wylder West Assignment. Keep an eye out for more information. Now let’s see what the other bloggers collected as a child. L&SR

Pssst… While you’re here, don’t forget to check out my paranormal romance/mysteries click here.

I have a New Year sale going on. Mystic Maples is 99¢ for a limited time. Download you copy today!

A little more about Mystic Maples!

Earth/Fire witch Mercy Rose’s insatiable curiosity always gets her in trouble. After a break-in at her Colorado flower shop, and a court battle that comes to a screeching halt in her favor, she arrives at Deerbourne Inn for a much-needed getaway. Looking for peace and quiet, she finds just the opposite in a startling handsome but mysterious man and his dog.

Silvanus Forrest’s gypsy/fae heritage is a double-edged sword. The land he inherited from his parents is rumored to be enchanted. But when Mercy discovers the truth, his well-ordered life unravels, and they’re catapulted into the past to right a wrong. Along the way their lives intertwine, and they discover the true meaning of family and love. Will they change the past in time to save their future?

A peek between the pages of Mystic Maples: The hook.

It was a beautiful summer evening lit by a full moon. What harm could come from simply popping over to Mystic Maples, digging my toes into the earth and see if there is any truth to the rumors? She shrugged. Sis wouldn’t have told me about it, if she hadn’t thought it worth investigating. Right?

She toed off her shoes, pulled off her socks and straightened. With a snap of her fingers she left the room without a sound and landed smack dab at the edge of the maple trees. Glancing around, she could see the house in the distance and the outline of the sign. “Good, I’m in the right place.” She wandered farther in among the trees, the dirt beneath her feet was cool. Wiggling her toes deeper into the earth, she felt the warmth of the day and something else—a connection.

Several trees had a slight glow to them, then it was gone. Am I imagining…She raised her arms out from her sides and turned her face to the starlit sky letting the magic surge through her. It had been almost a year since magic of any kind called to her. It felt so good, she was lost in the moment.

Suddenly a male voice broke through her revelry. “What are you doing here?”

Her heart thundered in her chest. She hadn’t heard a sound. Yet, there he was standing not three feet from her, hands on hips, and glaring at her.

Hope to see you next week when we’ll explore a book/movie/TV show that influenced my life. How about you? Do you have a book/movie/TV show that influenced your life?

Posted in My Say What Blog and tagged #L&SR's #Wednesday's Blog Challenge, Mystic Maples, Something I collected as a child, Tena Stetler, Witches by Tena Stetler with 21 comments.

Jan 19th Steamboat Lake, Colorado Destination For Travel Tuesday

I hope your New Year is off to a fantastic start. This week Travel Tuesday takes a peek at Steamboat Lake, Colorado.

Kayaks parked for the night a campfire started for dinner and s’mores.

Lake surface smooth as glass.

I can’t wait for warmer weather and camping/RVing. We have to make our reservations six months in advance to get spots in Colorado’s State Parks. So guess what I’ve been doing? LOL We spend most of our weekends from spring to fall traveling around in search of a place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the big city. This year I thought it’d be nice to share the places that we’ve enjoyed.

Steamboat Lake is one of the true jewels of Colorado. Steamboat Lake State Park has something special for everyone. Whatever your preference, well-deserved relaxation and recreation awaits you. We love kayaking on the lake. Especially along the no wake areas. Early morning and at dusk, you can find an amazing amount of wildlife lakeside in the deep grass or on the shore.. Blue Herons, ducks, a variety of fish, and river otters just to name a few.

Hahn’s, Peak frames the breathtaking scenery of Steamboat Lake State Park offering family fishing, camping, picnicking, trail and boat recreational opportunities. A full-service marina and swim beach provide amenities for active water play.

Several campgrounds inside the state park provide a relaxing area, and great views around the lake offering a spectacular opportunity to immerse yourself in the clean, crisp air and true Rocky Mountain living.

Winter comes alive with snowmobiling, ice fishing, and peaceful cross-country skiing or snow-shoeing in a valley surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Ten camper cabins down by the marina welcome adventurers for a cozy night.

Full Moon Reflection over the lake

Serenity

Dawn Mist

Flora at lake’s Edge

Kayaking with the pup.

Great Blue Heron

I hope you’ve enjoyed this first installment of my Travel Tuesday Blog and will return week after week to see where we’ll be next. I’d love to know what you think. Please share in the comments.

Winter doldrums got you down? Escape into a heart warming fantasy Mystic Maples for only 99 cents!

Posted in My Say What Blog, Travel Tuesday and tagged camping, Colorado, Full Moon, Relaxing, RVIng, Steamboat Lake, Travel by Tena Stetler with 7 comments.

Jan 13th Five Best Places I’ve Visited #L&SR’s Blogging Challenge

Happy New Year! Welcome to #L&SR’s Wednesday Weekly Blogging Challenge January 13, 2021. Today’s topic is Five Best Places I’ve Visited. Wow what a coincidence. On January 19th , I’ll be posting Travel Tuesday a blog about my RV travels. Make sure and check back to see where I been and what I loved and didn’t. Pull up a chair, grab a drink of your choice. Take your choice of a Chocolate Chip, Snickerdoodle, or Peanut Butter cookie from the plate and lets take a peek at Five Best Places I’ve Visited.

Okay, lets start with:

Graceland in Memphis, Tennessee

Gates with Graceland in the background

Okay it’s no secret that I am a big fan of Elvis Presley as my mother was too. The gates Graceland really intrigued me. The #1 American attraction is just a road trip away. Well, for us a long road trip, but well worth it. Did you know they fry everything in Memphis? They even fried our dinner rolls when they ran out of cornbread. Wild huh? 120 acres dedicated to the life and career of an American legend, Elvis Presley, the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. See the gold records, the jeweled jumpsuits, the classic cars and, now, all-new interactive exhibits that let you experience Elvis like never before.

Through the mansion tours, you will have the unique opportunity to walk in Elvis’ foot steps. I really loved this.

A visit to Graceland will leave you with a lifetime of memories. At least it did my family and I. We stayed in a great little campground not far from the mansion. It actually offered free rides to Graceland.

Mammoth Cave in Kentucky

Mammoth Cave

Its been several years since we explored Mammoth Cave National Park, the longest cave system on Earth, featuring the richest known habitat for cave wildlife in the world.

It may be difficult to think of caves as spacious and grand, but these are no ordinary caves. Humans first discovered this complex limestone labyrinth some 4,000 years ago beneath the Green River Valley of Edmonson County, Kentucky. To this day, explorers have yet to find an end to it, despite mapping more than 400 miles of passageways.

The last time we were there a boat tour was available through the cave.

Monterey Bay and Aquarium, California

Yellow Seahorse in habitat

Monterey Bay Aquarium is a nonprofit public aquarium in Monterey, California. Known for its regional focus on the marine habitats of Monterey Bay, it was the first to exhibit a living kelp forest when it opened in October 1984. (It’s temporarily closed due to COVID19)

I could spend hours, days, weeks there. I love all the exhibits, there are three floors and always expanding over the years we’ve visited. Overlooking the bay from the observation deck at the aquarium you can see lots of ocean live frolicking in the waves. The whole area coast line is teaming with ocean wildlife, from the tide pools to the beaches and in between.

We stayed in Mari Dunes RV Park a wonderful campground near the beach and walked along the shore line every day of our visit. So much fun and great exercise. Yes dogs were allowed on the beach. Mystic chased the seagulls into the surf. You haven’t lived until you’ve tried to get salt water out of a chow chows long heavy fur. WOW!

Disney Land in California at Halloween! What a thrill.

Disneyland Park, originally Disneyland, is the first of two theme parks built at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California, opened on July 17, 1955. It is the only theme park designed and built to completion under the direct supervision of Walt Disney. (Currently temp closed due to COVID)

Obviously, Disneyland is fun anytime, except when it’s really hot. But our visit during Halloween was a blast. Yep Halloween is my favorite holiday. The entire park was decorated for Halloween. There were trick or treat stations, haunted houses, pumpkin popcorn treats, and a fantastic fireworks show and parade. We stayed in a fantastic RV Park not far from Disneyland and road a bus the the amusement park everyday. Didn’t have to worry about parking or traffic. Perfect.

Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon ancient look out

Grand Canyon National Park, in Arizona, is home to much of the immense Grand Canyon, with its layered bands of red rock revealing millions of years of geological history. Viewpoints include Mather Point, Yavapai Observation Station and architect Mary Colter’s Lookout Studio and her Desert View Watchtower. Lipan Point, with wide views of the canyon and Colorado River, is a popular, especially at sunrise and sunset. It’s been a long time since we’ve been there, and I couldn’t find my photos. That was before they were digital. In recent years, I have them all categorized on my computer for easy access.

Alas, I must return to my writing cave. Stay tuned! Chocolate Raspberry Magic release date been extended until April 2021. As I indicated, I’ve turned in the sixth book in A Demon’s Witch Series to my editor at The Wild Rose Press and I have a Contract!! Now the edits to begin. Yippee! AND A new project is well underway Wylder West Assignment. Keep an eye out for more information. Now let’s see what the other author’s Five best places they visited. LOL L&SR

Oh, one mote thing. my book award winning HIDDEN GYPSY MAGIC is nominated in the Annual Critters Readers Pole this year. I would greatly appreciate your VOTE in the category #Magical Realism Novel Here is the link! https://buff.ly/34Nb8se Thank you so much! Voting ends January 14, 2021.

Pssst… While you’re here, don’t forget to check out my paranormal romance/mysteries click here.

A bit more about my 2020 award winner Hidden Gypsy Magic, available in digital, print or audiobook

The Salem Wildlife Sanctuary is Gwen Taylor’s life work. Her Irish Gypsy heritage provides a hidden talent she uses to help the creatures under her care. But even her magical skills can’t help new rescues in dire need of veterinary care.

The opportunity of signing on as the vet for Gwen’s sanctuary dropped into Brock Scutter’s lap after he expanded his practice to include wildlife. The personal attraction he and Gwen experience is undeniable the more their professional and personal lives collide.

Touring the only “non-haunted” house in Salem they both feel a spark of magic. A trip to his family’s cabin uncovers a heritage he didn’t know existed. If they want a future together, it means facing the consequences of awakening hidden Gypsy magic and a race against the clock to correct past wrongs.

A peek between the pages of Hidden Gypsy Magic:

In the soft light he’d left on, he could just make out both pupils were the same size. He breathed a sigh of relief. I can rule out head injury, so far anyway. The bird toppled over hitting its injured side against the enclosure and screeched.

“Its okay girl,” he cooed. “No one is going to hurt you.”

Gwen sucked in a breath behind him. “What a beautiful bird. And huge.”

Only Gwen could see the beauty in the blood matted feathers of an injured owl. He shook his head. It was the reason he was drawn to her. There was no way he was going to let her get away.

“Never saw one up close before.” Her gaze was full of compassion and understanding as she turned to him. “You’re going to need a bigger enclosure. That one’s not even big enough for her to spread one good wing. She does have one good wing. Right?”

Posted in My Say What Blog, Uncategorized and tagged #L&SR's #Wednesday's Blog Challenge, Five Best Places I've Visited, Paranormal Romance, Tena Stetler by Tena Stetler with 15 comments.