Christmas Baking Has Begun

Queen Elizabeth Cake.... my mother's recipe.... loaded with dates and nuts.

Blessings to all for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

~S~

http://www.shirleyannhoward.com/

A Deer Came into our Back Yard

Wild turkeys, a coyote, a red fox, and now a deer... close enough to touch.

Then he turned...

And walked away...

He barely heard me adjust the zoom.

~S~

http://www.shirleyannhoward.com/

New Hampshire Romance Writers Conference

I had a blast speaking on the Joy of Writing at the New Hampshire Romance Writers conference in September. I met so many friendly people and enjoyed workshops on creating characters and adding emotional impact. Here I am at the book signing.

I finished A WOMAN'S TALE IN A MAN'S WORLD and look forward to its release in April, 2012.

~S~

http://www.shirleyannhoward.com/

Branding

Expecting company next week... and I have finished cleaning! Yay!

Now I get to sit and read on my sunporch all afternoon. And what am I reading, you ask? My own work... my next book to be released April 2012... A WOMAN'S TALE IN A MAN'S WORLD. Wish I'd discovered this author sooner.

After five books, I've finally found my brand... social issues through fiction.

I also like to include literary themes, lyrical language, and sexy main characters.

Hope everyone reading this has a great weekend.

~S~

http://www.shirleyannhoward.com/

Heart of Excellence Readers Choice Award

I have been overwhelmed by the support TALES FROM HOME has received.
This time, second place, Heart of Excellence Readers Choice Award.
They sent me this beautiful banner trophy for my website.

This recognition of my work is gratifying.
Thank you to everyone who continues to encourage me.
Much love,
~Shirley

New Hampshire Fall Fling

Are you doing anything Saturday, Sept 24? I'll be speaking on The Joy of Writing at the New Hampshire Romance Writers Fall Fling conference. Portsmouth Sheraton Harborside Hotel, Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Book Fair at 4 pm open to the Public.

I'm so looking forward to seeing the wonderful folks from New Hampshire. We always have such a great time talking writing, networking, learning craft, and selling a few books.

Hope to see some of my Massachusetts writer friends there too... only one hour from Boston.

Happy Fall !!

~Shirley

http://www.shirleyannhoward.com/

A real-life Romance

Today, my sweet sweet husband and I celebrate our fortieth anniversary. It so doesn't seem possible. The time has flown like the jet plane we used to sing about leaving on. 

We've had a wonderful life, blessed with two wonderful sons and a lovely granddaughter.

Are there some things we're sad about? Of course, but I have faith the Lord will take our lives and lead us beside pure, still waters.

Blessings to all as we have been so richly blessed.

Peace and love,

Shirley & Leland