26/07/2004
Orange...
OK, who said spray tan was great? Own up!
I am now a very interesting shade of orange.
Yes, I've been tango'd, or worse- and, apparently, I've got a very brown botty- according to the girl in the old banger's maintenance shop- Well, won't that be a treat for all the lavatory seats I meet in the next week- For sure, no one else is going to see my 'very brown botty!'
When will I ever learn?
Never.
OK, now we've sorted that out, let's move on- except I can't- I feel all sticky, and I smell funny- funny peculiar, that is, not funny ha ha! And I taste like s***- Not that I've ever tasted any, you understand- but if I did...
Anyway, on with writing another couple of synopses... and smelling my study out, I have no doubt.
Let this be a warning to you!
Love to all from your sticky, stinky, and very odd-looking friend,
(Picture this if you will, orange hair and an orange body- how glamorous am I?)
Susan XXX (kisses straight from my sticky orange lips, you lucky things!)
I am now a very interesting shade of orange.
Yes, I've been tango'd, or worse- and, apparently, I've got a very brown botty- according to the girl in the old banger's maintenance shop- Well, won't that be a treat for all the lavatory seats I meet in the next week- For sure, no one else is going to see my 'very brown botty!'
When will I ever learn?
Never.
OK, now we've sorted that out, let's move on- except I can't- I feel all sticky, and I smell funny- funny peculiar, that is, not funny ha ha! And I taste like s***- Not that I've ever tasted any, you understand- but if I did...
Anyway, on with writing another couple of synopses... and smelling my study out, I have no doubt.
Let this be a warning to you!
Love to all from your sticky, stinky, and very odd-looking friend,
(Picture this if you will, orange hair and an orange body- how glamorous am I?)
Susan XXX (kisses straight from my sticky orange lips, you lucky things!)
25/07/2004
Shoes...
Will six pairs be enough?
24/07/2004
Ready...
Sorry for silence, just had to finish off everything for Dallas before allowing myself a treat- So, now I have finished, and here I am.
The fridge is packed to exploding with food for when I'm away, and having seen my best suitcase leave for Egypt with oldest sprog, I am leaving the packing as long as possible so that my clothes survive their trip in a disgusting old Wal Mart case that has definitely seen better days.
My conference itinerary is so hectic I will be back on that plane to the UK before I know what is happening. As for seeing anything of Dallas- forget it!
Still, as long as I see my friends, that's all that matters- but like me, their conference schedule is packed to bursting. We have our ways of getting together, however- The fabulous Sandra Marton, who also writes for Presents is having a Pizza Party after the literary signing, so that will be another excuse to chill out and spend some quality time with other romance authors.
I've already mentioned Jane Porter's sumptuous afternoon tea, and then I have more friends who live in the US, so I must catch up with them for drinks/lunch etc
I honestly don't expect to get a chance to leave the hotel unless to a Harlequin 'do', or to Jane's tea- not even to the shopping mall conveniently accessible by skywalk from the hotel...
Oh, well, perhaps I'll just pop across really quickly...
I can't wait to tell you all the news when I return, and with my fab' web mistress's magic fingers at the ready, I hope to have lots of photographs to uplift to the site when I return. (Just give us a week or so to get things organised when I return!)
Love to all!
Susan
The fridge is packed to exploding with food for when I'm away, and having seen my best suitcase leave for Egypt with oldest sprog, I am leaving the packing as long as possible so that my clothes survive their trip in a disgusting old Wal Mart case that has definitely seen better days.
My conference itinerary is so hectic I will be back on that plane to the UK before I know what is happening. As for seeing anything of Dallas- forget it!
Still, as long as I see my friends, that's all that matters- but like me, their conference schedule is packed to bursting. We have our ways of getting together, however- The fabulous Sandra Marton, who also writes for Presents is having a Pizza Party after the literary signing, so that will be another excuse to chill out and spend some quality time with other romance authors.
I've already mentioned Jane Porter's sumptuous afternoon tea, and then I have more friends who live in the US, so I must catch up with them for drinks/lunch etc
I honestly don't expect to get a chance to leave the hotel unless to a Harlequin 'do', or to Jane's tea- not even to the shopping mall conveniently accessible by skywalk from the hotel...
Oh, well, perhaps I'll just pop across really quickly...
I can't wait to tell you all the news when I return, and with my fab' web mistress's magic fingers at the ready, I hope to have lots of photographs to uplift to the site when I return. (Just give us a week or so to get things organised when I return!)
Love to all!
Susan
21/07/2004
I haven't forgotten- well, not much anyway...
Yes, I have my specs on (spare specs), and yes, I found my discs (one of them, anyway).
I only hope I don't fall asleep on the flight to Dallas and end up returning to England without disembarking.
I have so many balls up in the air, so many pieces of work to polish, I really don't know where I am in the world!
Tomorrow, I'm helping eldest sprog flat-hunt, and fitting in a lunch with my steam-clean friend, Val'. Friday I'm devoting to my elderly friend, and then it's the weekend, and youngest sprog returns from Spain. My son will also arrive with a long face requiring maximum tlc, because the lovely French girlfriend will have driven back to Paris...
Then it's Monday- and I'm into the local- well I can't really call it a Beauty Salon where I'm concerned- For me it's rather more of a body shop for an old banger- rub it down, shave off the worst of the rust, fill in the scratches, and spray paint it with instant tan ready for Dallas...
Yippee Ay Oh!
Hi Yo Silver!
Oh, and before I get completely carried away (by men in white coats), Here are Rosemary's books for your delight and delectation(both out with Kensington)
Kiss Me Forever, and Love Me Forever... and Immortal Bad Boys Yummy, I love the sound of that one, Rosemary. Endless naughtiness- marvellous!
Love to all
Susan
I only hope I don't fall asleep on the flight to Dallas and end up returning to England without disembarking.
I have so many balls up in the air, so many pieces of work to polish, I really don't know where I am in the world!
Tomorrow, I'm helping eldest sprog flat-hunt, and fitting in a lunch with my steam-clean friend, Val'. Friday I'm devoting to my elderly friend, and then it's the weekend, and youngest sprog returns from Spain. My son will also arrive with a long face requiring maximum tlc, because the lovely French girlfriend will have driven back to Paris...
Then it's Monday- and I'm into the local- well I can't really call it a Beauty Salon where I'm concerned- For me it's rather more of a body shop for an old banger- rub it down, shave off the worst of the rust, fill in the scratches, and spray paint it with instant tan ready for Dallas...
Yippee Ay Oh!
Hi Yo Silver!
Oh, and before I get completely carried away (by men in white coats), Here are Rosemary's books for your delight and delectation(both out with Kensington)
Kiss Me Forever, and Love Me Forever... and Immortal Bad Boys Yummy, I love the sound of that one, Rosemary. Endless naughtiness- marvellous!
Love to all
Susan
20/07/2004
Eyes a' poppin', heart a' thumpin'...
I'll be grey before I get to Dallas- Now I can't find the discs for a whole pile of work, and I need them NOW, and I need them DESPERATELY.
How much of our lives do we spend searching for things we've lost? (Or is it just me?)
Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaargh! Uh, that's better.
Had a super great day otherwise, making plans to meet up with chums in the US.
Jane Porter's invitation to afternoon tea arrived, and it is almost as beautiful as she is- a Renoir, I think on the front of it- anyway, very nice.
Also meeting my 'Top Pick' for Vampire romance, Rosemary Laurey, who writes for Kensington, and has two great books out soon, with, as I'm sure I mentioned before, the best covers I've ever seen.
Somewhere amongst all these papers, I've got the name of Rosemary's books- Hang on a minute, and I'll find them... Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaargh! Again.
If I could only find my specs I might have a chance of finding everything else!
You'll just have to tune in tomorrow to find out about Rosemary's books. Sorry.
Rosemary and I arrive in Dallas around the same time, and we're going to put our feet up together and swill tea until revived. (That's going to take a lot of tea after my 14 hours in the air, Rosemary!)
Better go and do some work (with my nose pressed to the screen because I can't find- Oh, you know the rest-)
Love to all
Susan
How much of our lives do we spend searching for things we've lost? (Or is it just me?)
Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaargh! Uh, that's better.
Had a super great day otherwise, making plans to meet up with chums in the US.
Jane Porter's invitation to afternoon tea arrived, and it is almost as beautiful as she is- a Renoir, I think on the front of it- anyway, very nice.
Also meeting my 'Top Pick' for Vampire romance, Rosemary Laurey, who writes for Kensington, and has two great books out soon, with, as I'm sure I mentioned before, the best covers I've ever seen.
Somewhere amongst all these papers, I've got the name of Rosemary's books- Hang on a minute, and I'll find them... Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaargh! Again.
If I could only find my specs I might have a chance of finding everything else!
You'll just have to tune in tomorrow to find out about Rosemary's books. Sorry.
Rosemary and I arrive in Dallas around the same time, and we're going to put our feet up together and swill tea until revived. (That's going to take a lot of tea after my 14 hours in the air, Rosemary!)
Better go and do some work (with my nose pressed to the screen because I can't find- Oh, you know the rest-)
Love to all
Susan
19/07/2004
Work, Work, Work, and thank goodness for it...
Some of us were born to be wild- other's were born to work. I may have imagined I belonged to the first group when I was in my teens, but later years proved beyond doubt that my place lies with the second group.
And I'm not complaining.
I love what I do, but right now my neck feels as if it has been hit several times with a hammer, and my eyes are revolving a la Tom and Gerry...
So, it's goodnight from me- and goodnight to you all
Happy reading and writing everyone
Love
Susan
And I'm not complaining.
I love what I do, but right now my neck feels as if it has been hit several times with a hammer, and my eyes are revolving a la Tom and Gerry...
So, it's goodnight from me- and goodnight to you all
Happy reading and writing everyone
Love
Susan
18/07/2004
Figuritas...
Thank you so much to Elise from Flitwick UK for this Greek recipe for marzipan 'dainties'.
It is an incredible coincidence, as I wrote about Figuritas, Spanish marzipan delights, in my latest book, The Spanish Billionaire's Mistress. Figuritas are often shaped into mice, or rabbits for children to eat.
However, I digress. Here is Elise's recipe, and some goodies will be in the post to you tomorrow, Elise. By the way, I love your name!
Ingredients
8oz Ground Almonds
4oz Caster Sugar
2tbs Fine Ground Semolina
1 Large egg, beaten
1tbs Rosewater
Icing Sugar for dusting, and Oil for greasing.
Method
Put almonds, sugar, and semolina in a bowl and mix well. Add egg and rosewater, and knead to a smooth dough.
Break off pieces of dough and shape as required.
Bake in a preheated oven @150C for around 20 minutes.
Leave to cool, then brush with rosewater, and dust with icing sugar.
Save one for me!
Love to all!
Susan
It is an incredible coincidence, as I wrote about Figuritas, Spanish marzipan delights, in my latest book, The Spanish Billionaire's Mistress. Figuritas are often shaped into mice, or rabbits for children to eat.
However, I digress. Here is Elise's recipe, and some goodies will be in the post to you tomorrow, Elise. By the way, I love your name!
Ingredients
8oz Ground Almonds
4oz Caster Sugar
2tbs Fine Ground Semolina
1 Large egg, beaten
1tbs Rosewater
Icing Sugar for dusting, and Oil for greasing.
Method
Put almonds, sugar, and semolina in a bowl and mix well. Add egg and rosewater, and knead to a smooth dough.
Break off pieces of dough and shape as required.
Bake in a preheated oven @150C for around 20 minutes.
Leave to cool, then brush with rosewater, and dust with icing sugar.
Save one for me!
Love to all!
Susan
17/07/2004
An abundance of riches...
Yes, this grumpy old author has left the home cave to eat out on two consecutive nights !
Tonight's meal was in celebration of my son's twenty-fourth birthday, and as he is a vegetarian this called for something special.
He came up trumps for us with a fantastic Hindu restaurant- and no, I didn't know until tonight that, 'Hindus are forbidden to kill any living creature, especially for food.'
Needless to say, after generations of cooking without meat of any kind, these guys have got things just about right!
The meal was historic: tasty, varied, nutritious, and delicious!
Our meal consisted of Starters (Sharuaat), a selection of vegetable curries, (Lilotri), and Beans, or Pulse curries (Kathor), and lets not forget the Puddings! (Mistaan)
And here's a really great quote from their menu to start the weekend for all of us...
'In the joy of others, lies our own.
In the progress of others, rests our own.
In the good of others, abides our own.
Tonight's meal was in celebration of my son's twenty-fourth birthday, and as he is a vegetarian this called for something special.
He came up trumps for us with a fantastic Hindu restaurant- and no, I didn't know until tonight that, 'Hindus are forbidden to kill any living creature, especially for food.'
Needless to say, after generations of cooking without meat of any kind, these guys have got things just about right!
The meal was historic: tasty, varied, nutritious, and delicious!
Our meal consisted of Starters (Sharuaat), a selection of vegetable curries, (Lilotri), and Beans, or Pulse curries (Kathor), and lets not forget the Puddings! (Mistaan)
And here's a really great quote from their menu to start the weekend for all of us...
'In the joy of others, lies our own.
In the progress of others, rests our own.
In the good of others, abides our own.
Know this to be the key to peace and happiness.'
Mahatma Gandhi
16/07/2004
Ohmagod!
I've just been out for a meal.
Yes, Yes, I know, you think I live on ambrosia, caviar and champagne. But actually, like every woman of my generation, married to every man of my generation, I am expected to slave over the cooker as if I actually know how to cook 7 days worth of meals- and make them interesting, nutritious, tasty and different- And you know what, girls, it's goddamned boring- in fact it's just a chore- or sheer drudgery, depending on how I'm feeling at the time.
And let me tell you, its far more interesting 'people watching' in a restaurant, than it is sitting like a piece of lard on the sofa watching TV after I clear everything up- There was this guy- at least seventy- with this woman (around 22), trying a lot too hard- with a tan like a toasted sandwich, and jeans at least two sizes too small- You see what happens when I'm let out, girls- I get over-excited. It's definitely time for a herb tea...
See you all tomorrow!
Love to all
Susan
Yes, Yes, I know, you think I live on ambrosia, caviar and champagne. But actually, like every woman of my generation, married to every man of my generation, I am expected to slave over the cooker as if I actually know how to cook 7 days worth of meals- and make them interesting, nutritious, tasty and different- And you know what, girls, it's goddamned boring- in fact it's just a chore- or sheer drudgery, depending on how I'm feeling at the time.
And let me tell you, its far more interesting 'people watching' in a restaurant, than it is sitting like a piece of lard on the sofa watching TV after I clear everything up- There was this guy- at least seventy- with this woman (around 22), trying a lot too hard- with a tan like a toasted sandwich, and jeans at least two sizes too small- You see what happens when I'm let out, girls- I get over-excited. It's definitely time for a herb tea...
See you all tomorrow!
Love to all
Susan
15/07/2004
Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeek! Ooooooooooooooooooooh!
I hope you appreciate my skilful use of the English language!
Eeek! - I just found a spider in one of the boxes holding my files- back to a scramble of papers on top of the desk for me!
Love spiders, cannot kill them, but they scaaaaaaaaaaaare me.
Oooh! - Just got title of new book, Dah daaaaaaaaaaah!
The Spanish Billionaire's Mistress
Now we've got over that excitement- am sitting here eating Marks & Spencer yummy raspberry jelly and drinking hot chocolate- sure sign that I am feeling the pressure.
It's a long way to Dallas, and the airline knows it too when they price up those tickets.
I have to have everything alsolutely polished to the nub, and ready to roll- and not just the work, but the old bod' too... Imagine, if you will, all that plucking, filing, shaving and buffing- No, you really don't want to know... And then the final ignominy when I'm spray-tanned by some youngster with a firm stomach (I hate firm stomachs),so that I don't look like the washed-out British author I am...
I just heard from another of my signing neighbours- Natalie Stenzel- Hi there, Natalie! We're going to be sharing sparkly sprinkles, lots of chocolate delight with my other neighbour, Jennifer Stevenson- and if I have anything to do with it- lots of mischief too.
I thoroughly recommend 'meeting' the neighbours before the signing, as it last for several hours, and congenial company makes the whole area around you glow.
At the RTNYC in March, I sat with my best writing bud' Pen'(Penny Jordan), as well as the fabulous Anne Hampson- not to mention the incredibly friendly, deservedly popular, and all-round good-egg, Bertrice Small.
Hi Bertrice! I absolutely love losing myself in your books- they're well worth missing the plane for!
I also just heard from the very beautiful Jane Porter, who not only writes for Presents, but looks exactly like a Presents heroine is supposed to look. Jane has invited me for another of her glittering afternoon teas- and we are to be whisked away from the conference hotel in a limousine...
Now, to all those people who ask me why I adore going to conference...
Happy reading, and writing everyone-
Love to all!
Susan
Eeek! - I just found a spider in one of the boxes holding my files- back to a scramble of papers on top of the desk for me!
Love spiders, cannot kill them, but they scaaaaaaaaaaaare me.
Oooh! - Just got title of new book, Dah daaaaaaaaaaah!
The Spanish Billionaire's Mistress
Now we've got over that excitement- am sitting here eating Marks & Spencer yummy raspberry jelly and drinking hot chocolate- sure sign that I am feeling the pressure.
It's a long way to Dallas, and the airline knows it too when they price up those tickets.
I have to have everything alsolutely polished to the nub, and ready to roll- and not just the work, but the old bod' too... Imagine, if you will, all that plucking, filing, shaving and buffing- No, you really don't want to know... And then the final ignominy when I'm spray-tanned by some youngster with a firm stomach (I hate firm stomachs),so that I don't look like the washed-out British author I am...
I just heard from another of my signing neighbours- Natalie Stenzel- Hi there, Natalie! We're going to be sharing sparkly sprinkles, lots of chocolate delight with my other neighbour, Jennifer Stevenson- and if I have anything to do with it- lots of mischief too.
I thoroughly recommend 'meeting' the neighbours before the signing, as it last for several hours, and congenial company makes the whole area around you glow.
At the RTNYC in March, I sat with my best writing bud' Pen'(Penny Jordan), as well as the fabulous Anne Hampson- not to mention the incredibly friendly, deservedly popular, and all-round good-egg, Bertrice Small.
Hi Bertrice! I absolutely love losing myself in your books- they're well worth missing the plane for!
I also just heard from the very beautiful Jane Porter, who not only writes for Presents, but looks exactly like a Presents heroine is supposed to look. Jane has invited me for another of her glittering afternoon teas- and we are to be whisked away from the conference hotel in a limousine...
Now, to all those people who ask me why I adore going to conference...
Happy reading, and writing everyone-
Love to all!
Susan
13/07/2004
It's been a cow pat of a day...
But only because I stuck my foot in a great big squishy one while I was out walking the dogs.
I was so busy keeping watch on the farmer's longhorn cows, wondering if they fancied sticking one of their perfectly hones horns up an author's ass to break the monotony of chewing the cud, that I didn't look where I was going...
Otherwise, all things are bling.
Eldest sprog found she passed law finals today- always useful to have a barrister in the family!
Waiting to hear title for new book- I find this the most exciting part of the whole process- after knowing the book is accepted, of course.
I haven't had any complaints with my ed's choice, because, as I never tire of telling you, she's great!
It's just so exciting to see what she comes up with to reveal the heart of my story in three or four buzzy words.
Well, that's it for today- in case you're wondering- youngest sprog doesn't want me to take her out in the car-
So there, mother- Yah boo hiss to you! Hiding in the bunker indeed! Who needs ya!
Thank you, dear, for that kind ps to my blog
Love to you all
From poor downtrodden mother, otherwise known as your faithful friend and author,
Susan
I was so busy keeping watch on the farmer's longhorn cows, wondering if they fancied sticking one of their perfectly hones horns up an author's ass to break the monotony of chewing the cud, that I didn't look where I was going...
Otherwise, all things are bling.
Eldest sprog found she passed law finals today- always useful to have a barrister in the family!
Waiting to hear title for new book- I find this the most exciting part of the whole process- after knowing the book is accepted, of course.
I haven't had any complaints with my ed's choice, because, as I never tire of telling you, she's great!
It's just so exciting to see what she comes up with to reveal the heart of my story in three or four buzzy words.
Well, that's it for today- in case you're wondering- youngest sprog doesn't want me to take her out in the car-
So there, mother- Yah boo hiss to you! Hiding in the bunker indeed! Who needs ya!
Thank you, dear, for that kind ps to my blog
Love to you all
From poor downtrodden mother, otherwise known as your faithful friend and author,
Susan
12/07/2004
I'm in hiding...
Is there anything scarier than going out on the roads with a learner driver??
I don't want to know if there is!
I am finding a thousand different ways to make myself temporarily unavailable whenever youngest sprog wishes to go out in her new car. I know I have to give in eventually- but let's get past the 'complete lack of spacial awareness' and 'kangaroo hopping and stalling at every traffic light' stage before I do!
More 'news from the bunker' tomorrow...
Love to all
Susan
I don't want to know if there is!
I am finding a thousand different ways to make myself temporarily unavailable whenever youngest sprog wishes to go out in her new car. I know I have to give in eventually- but let's get past the 'complete lack of spacial awareness' and 'kangaroo hopping and stalling at every traffic light' stage before I do!
More 'news from the bunker' tomorrow...
Love to all
Susan
10/07/2004
Editor: missing you already...
When I wrote non-fiction I once had three editors during one year working on a single book- and I don't mean simultaneously... I mean one after the other!
So, having satisfied the requirements of one ed', I was immediately thrown under another spotlight, and off we went again, re-hashing the same material to accord with another ed's view.
I can tell you that by the time I finished that book I felt like taking up another profession.
OK, so now for the bad news: My wonderful chum, mentor, cheer-leader and all-round very very nice and especially talented person (editor) is leaving Harlequin.
To start with its rather like having your 'blankie' snatched away- but we have to be grown up about these things. This is a career, not a hobby for her, and I am very happy to know that she is doing what she wants to do, when she wants to do it.
I will miss our e-mail exchanges, and the humour that made every day working with her a pleasure.
I have just been reading Kate Walkers 12 point guide to writing romance. If you don't have it, buy it.
Every word is true, and if you don't know Kate personally, let me tell you that she is one of the warmest, most genuine, and supportive people you could ever wish to meet. There is no better person to be sitting (in book form) on your desk, guiding you and encouraging you with your writing.
Have a great weekend everyone- even if its cold and raining as it is here in the North of England... Of course, I know some of you love it like this (Hi Wendy!! [my fab' web mistress for one])
Love
Susan
So, having satisfied the requirements of one ed', I was immediately thrown under another spotlight, and off we went again, re-hashing the same material to accord with another ed's view.
I can tell you that by the time I finished that book I felt like taking up another profession.
OK, so now for the bad news: My wonderful chum, mentor, cheer-leader and all-round very very nice and especially talented person (editor) is leaving Harlequin.
To start with its rather like having your 'blankie' snatched away- but we have to be grown up about these things. This is a career, not a hobby for her, and I am very happy to know that she is doing what she wants to do, when she wants to do it.
I will miss our e-mail exchanges, and the humour that made every day working with her a pleasure.
I have just been reading Kate Walkers 12 point guide to writing romance. If you don't have it, buy it.
Every word is true, and if you don't know Kate personally, let me tell you that she is one of the warmest, most genuine, and supportive people you could ever wish to meet. There is no better person to be sitting (in book form) on your desk, guiding you and encouraging you with your writing.
Have a great weekend everyone- even if its cold and raining as it is here in the North of England... Of course, I know some of you love it like this (Hi Wendy!! [my fab' web mistress for one])
Love
Susan
09/07/2004
Hip Hip Hoorah!!!!
Or in the words of Victor Meldrew, 'I can't believe it'
For all you parents out there who know how these kids can put you through the ringer at times- you'll appreciate how I'm feeling right now!
My youngest sprog has just been made Games Captain of her house at school for next year as well as Deputy Head of House (so it didn't hurt her to have a mother who used to hide up a ladder in the kit room during games, after all!)
Believe me, I am loving it, girls- really, really loving it!!!
Sharing hugs, smiles and happiness with you all,
Susan
For all you parents out there who know how these kids can put you through the ringer at times- you'll appreciate how I'm feeling right now!
My youngest sprog has just been made Games Captain of her house at school for next year as well as Deputy Head of House (so it didn't hurt her to have a mother who used to hide up a ladder in the kit room during games, after all!)
Believe me, I am loving it, girls- really, really loving it!!!
Sharing hugs, smiles and happiness with you all,
Susan
07/07/2004
Boo Hoo...
Don't be jealous of the designer slacks I bought half price in the sales- I just pressed them after shortening them and scorched them
Anyone who dares to mention scorch mark will be crossed off my Christmas card list- you have been warned!!!
Yes, of course I shall wear them- until they fall from my legs in shreds, if necessary. THEY WERE HALF PRICE
Val steered me in the direction of a very nice wine bar- yes, I'm an old stodge-pot, and grudgingly and grumpily admit that there are other places to eat other than Harvey Nicks...
Actually, it was very good
Going to look at my slacks again, just to see if scorch mark has spontaneously disappeared- well, you never know...
Love to all (except those of you with unscorched half-price slacks)
Susan
Anyone who dares to mention scorch mark will be crossed off my Christmas card list- you have been warned!!!
Yes, of course I shall wear them- until they fall from my legs in shreds, if necessary. THEY WERE HALF PRICE
Val steered me in the direction of a very nice wine bar- yes, I'm an old stodge-pot, and grudgingly and grumpily admit that there are other places to eat other than Harvey Nicks...
Actually, it was very good
Going to look at my slacks again, just to see if scorch mark has spontaneously disappeared- well, you never know...
Love to all (except those of you with unscorched half-price slacks)
Susan
Dallas Doodle Dandee...
Am getting so excited- scared too- what will I do without my best bud' Pen' sitting next to me, holding my hand on take-off and landing?!
We exchanged matching anguished glances, which grew even more anguished when we realised we'd been so busy reading the fabulous Patrice Small's books we'd missed our connecting flight at Charles de Gaulle
Will really miss Penny- we had such a great time together in New York- fortunately we like exactly the same things- writing, sleeping, and shopping. I think we made one party- Ellora's Cave- where I famously scooped up a handful of condoms on sticks to 'take home to the kids', thinking they were lollipops.
Yes, I've been married too long, and yes, my eyesight is atrocious, and YES, I put the condoms back on the table again!
Anyhow- have just learned from one of my US chums, who has already received her invitation, that the Harlequin party this year is to be held at the Womens Museum in Dallas.
What a fantastic choice of venue! I'm thrilled at the prospect of visiting and browsing the exhibits. When I was in Tucson last year I was very moved by the thought of all the pioneers who had travelled so far and risked so much to build a new country.
I'm off to see my steam-clean-kitchen, barbershop-singing chum, Val' today. We're going to set ourselves loose on the Sales after visiting the hairdresser together, where we will no doubt fling insults of the friendly/ironic type at each other all morning much to everyone's alarm- 'Oy, Baldy!', and Hey, Tufty!'is not uncommon banter between us...
At least its my turn to pay for lunch- so we're off to Harvey Nichols, and not to some damned Hippy joint!
Love ya, Val'!
Love to all, and happy reading and writing!!
Susan
We exchanged matching anguished glances, which grew even more anguished when we realised we'd been so busy reading the fabulous Patrice Small's books we'd missed our connecting flight at Charles de Gaulle
Will really miss Penny- we had such a great time together in New York- fortunately we like exactly the same things- writing, sleeping, and shopping. I think we made one party- Ellora's Cave- where I famously scooped up a handful of condoms on sticks to 'take home to the kids', thinking they were lollipops.
Yes, I've been married too long, and yes, my eyesight is atrocious, and YES, I put the condoms back on the table again!
Anyhow- have just learned from one of my US chums, who has already received her invitation, that the Harlequin party this year is to be held at the Womens Museum in Dallas.
What a fantastic choice of venue! I'm thrilled at the prospect of visiting and browsing the exhibits. When I was in Tucson last year I was very moved by the thought of all the pioneers who had travelled so far and risked so much to build a new country.
I'm off to see my steam-clean-kitchen, barbershop-singing chum, Val' today. We're going to set ourselves loose on the Sales after visiting the hairdresser together, where we will no doubt fling insults of the friendly/ironic type at each other all morning much to everyone's alarm- 'Oy, Baldy!', and Hey, Tufty!'is not uncommon banter between us...
At least its my turn to pay for lunch- so we're off to Harvey Nichols, and not to some damned Hippy joint!
Love ya, Val'!
Love to all, and happy reading and writing!!
Susan
06/07/2004
Snoring gently...
Got up so early this morning I had to go for a brisk walk around the block to wake up-
What the milkman thought of me reading ed's notes and alternately guffawing and swearing, I have no idea.
Suffice it to say, I returned home- completed said revisions, having exchanged numerous mails both cravenly grovelling, and of course, spirited, like a true M&B heroine, and another gorgeous Presents hero is on his way...
Goodness, I love those men- mad, bad and dangerous to know- All they're short of is a skirt (remember Troy?)
Then- and this is where the snoring comes in- I had a bath, lay on the bed and fell asleep- in the afternoon!
What do you mean, I'm getting old? I'm just adopting the traditions of my Mediterranean heroes and taking a siesta!
Love to all!
Susan
What the milkman thought of me reading ed's notes and alternately guffawing and swearing, I have no idea.
Suffice it to say, I returned home- completed said revisions, having exchanged numerous mails both cravenly grovelling, and of course, spirited, like a true M&B heroine, and another gorgeous Presents hero is on his way...
Goodness, I love those men- mad, bad and dangerous to know- All they're short of is a skirt (remember Troy?)
Then- and this is where the snoring comes in- I had a bath, lay on the bed and fell asleep- in the afternoon!
What do you mean, I'm getting old? I'm just adopting the traditions of my Mediterranean heroes and taking a siesta!
Love to all!
Susan
05/07/2004
All things Greek...
Yes, of course I arranged for the Greek team to win the European football cup just to promote The Greeks's Seven Day Seduction, how can you even ask??!!
Congratulations to all my wonderful friends in Greece- we are truly happy for you- Its absolutely fantastic to be able to congratulate a group of players who played like a team, and not like a collection of star players- now we see the difference- and now we understand how vitally important it is to stand by each other.
Now there's just the Olympics to come in Athens...
Ho Hum- JUST the Olympics, she says- Just the most life endorsing, spiritually enriching sporting event on the face of the planet! I, for one, can't wait. Seeing what we human beings are capable of must raise everyone's sights a little higher. Knowing you can't pole vault, or lift colossal weights isn't the point- knowing what you can strive for, and what YOU can achieve is the point, as well as the inspiration.
Happy reading and writing, everyone
With my love, as always,
Susan
Congratulations to all my wonderful friends in Greece- we are truly happy for you- Its absolutely fantastic to be able to congratulate a group of players who played like a team, and not like a collection of star players- now we see the difference- and now we understand how vitally important it is to stand by each other.
Now there's just the Olympics to come in Athens...
Ho Hum- JUST the Olympics, she says- Just the most life endorsing, spiritually enriching sporting event on the face of the planet! I, for one, can't wait. Seeing what we human beings are capable of must raise everyone's sights a little higher. Knowing you can't pole vault, or lift colossal weights isn't the point- knowing what you can strive for, and what YOU can achieve is the point, as well as the inspiration.
Happy reading and writing, everyone
With my love, as always,
Susan
04/07/2004
Born on the fourth of July...
Thinking of that great number 'I'm a Yankee Doodle Dandee', sung by Mickey Rooney as I celebrate the 4th today.
I got to sing it on board the QE2 when I was performing in cabaret on the Southampton, New York run... me in top hat and fishnet stockings... eeeugh! don't even think about it, girls!
My youngest is 17 today, and took possession of her first car. Celebrations all round! And a very, very happy July 4th to all my great friends on the other side of the pond!
A special hi! to Jennifer Stevenson- check out Jennifer's web site on: http://www.jenniferstevenson.com
Jennifer is going to be sitting next to me at the literary signing in Dallas- and had the great idea of contacting me in advance to see what type of chocolate I preferred.
Wow! I love you already,Jennifer!
What a great idea to do that, and how typical of all the really lovely people I've met in the US since I started writing romance. I
I know I've said it before- but I'm going to say it again- The best thing about writing romance is the fabulous people you meet.
Love to all, and happy reading and writing
Susan
I got to sing it on board the QE2 when I was performing in cabaret on the Southampton, New York run... me in top hat and fishnet stockings... eeeugh! don't even think about it, girls!
My youngest is 17 today, and took possession of her first car. Celebrations all round! And a very, very happy July 4th to all my great friends on the other side of the pond!
A special hi! to Jennifer Stevenson- check out Jennifer's web site on: http://www.jenniferstevenson.com
Jennifer is going to be sitting next to me at the literary signing in Dallas- and had the great idea of contacting me in advance to see what type of chocolate I preferred.
Wow! I love you already,Jennifer!
What a great idea to do that, and how typical of all the really lovely people I've met in the US since I started writing romance. I
I know I've said it before- but I'm going to say it again- The best thing about writing romance is the fabulous people you meet.
Love to all, and happy reading and writing
Susan
02/07/2004
Naughtiness...
I have been totally wicked today. Wimbledon was rained out. Yes, I know that means I should have been writing, BUT they have been really clever this year, broadcasting features on tennis players and today, Yippee!!! My absolute favourite, John McEnroe.
I did sit with my lap-top on my lap (surprisingly enough) pretending to work, so I didn't feel too bad.
Have finished three chaps of one submission and need to polish that, and I have sent for ten thousand reference books for my next two submissions.
Tell you what- I have just realised why I love writing so much- I am totally addicted to the scent of new books. Oh, I just need to make another order... See you soon
Hi to all my regular readers, and thank you for mailing me- you're the best!
Love to all
Susan
I did sit with my lap-top on my lap (surprisingly enough) pretending to work, so I didn't feel too bad.
Have finished three chaps of one submission and need to polish that, and I have sent for ten thousand reference books for my next two submissions.
Tell you what- I have just realised why I love writing so much- I am totally addicted to the scent of new books. Oh, I just need to make another order... See you soon
Hi to all my regular readers, and thank you for mailing me- you're the best!
Love to all
Susan
Exciting Times...
Most of my good writing buddies are away at the RNA conference being held at Leicester university this weekend. I can't go as my youngest is seventeen on Sunday, and the whole gang, plus numerous chums are all arriving in relays from today onwards. I just know they will be in sore need of feeding. So it's 'stand by the Aga' for me!
The 'Exciting Times' banner refers not just to the party, but to the really thrilling news that two of my best writing buds are very very close to being signed by new publishers.
I can't tell you who they are until they give me the go ahead, of course- but I am so thrilled for them.
A lot of you out there know what hangs on this- it's almost impossible to describe how it feels to be waiting for 'the call', and when it comes- as I know it will for both of them- there's no feeling quite like that either.
I often say writing has many similarities to my previous career as a professional singer, but there is one substantial difference. The world of the professional singer is highly competetive, and you have to be pretty thick-skinned to stay the course. Writers are treading just the same emotional tightrope, but somehow we hang together, support each other through bad times and good, and feel a genuine rush of pleasure when one of our number has a success.
I am so thrilled for my two friends- actually, I've just thought of another chum who is very close to signing for Harlequin- so, all I'm going to say to those of you I don't get to meet in person is: people do get signed, and if you believe in yourself and your manuscript, never give up, because you can be one of them.
Love to all, and happy reading as well as writing!
Susan
The 'Exciting Times' banner refers not just to the party, but to the really thrilling news that two of my best writing buds are very very close to being signed by new publishers.
I can't tell you who they are until they give me the go ahead, of course- but I am so thrilled for them.
A lot of you out there know what hangs on this- it's almost impossible to describe how it feels to be waiting for 'the call', and when it comes- as I know it will for both of them- there's no feeling quite like that either.
I often say writing has many similarities to my previous career as a professional singer, but there is one substantial difference. The world of the professional singer is highly competetive, and you have to be pretty thick-skinned to stay the course. Writers are treading just the same emotional tightrope, but somehow we hang together, support each other through bad times and good, and feel a genuine rush of pleasure when one of our number has a success.
I am so thrilled for my two friends- actually, I've just thought of another chum who is very close to signing for Harlequin- so, all I'm going to say to those of you I don't get to meet in person is: people do get signed, and if you believe in yourself and your manuscript, never give up, because you can be one of them.
Love to all, and happy reading as well as writing!
Susan
01/07/2004
Shake out...
All those disjointed sentences fell into place today- and I can take time off and watch the tennis. A fantastic call from my ed' has nothing- all right, everything to do with it.
I've been watching Wimbledon since I was a tiny tot, and my eccentric headmistress used to suspend all lessons while we trooped into her sitting room to watch the tennis.
I've been lucky enough to see Agassi win, and most of the great stars in person on the hallowed turf. This year work comes first, but I'm still making time to watch on TV, and its a great incentive to get organised, and get finished!
My favourite amongst all the great tennis stars? How can you ask? Has to be the one and only John McEnroe- That swinging serve, and that attitude has no parallel- and we were both rebels around about the same time. Now we're both poachers turned gamekeepers- nuff said!
Love to all- and back to the tennis!
Susan
I've been watching Wimbledon since I was a tiny tot, and my eccentric headmistress used to suspend all lessons while we trooped into her sitting room to watch the tennis.
I've been lucky enough to see Agassi win, and most of the great stars in person on the hallowed turf. This year work comes first, but I'm still making time to watch on TV, and its a great incentive to get organised, and get finished!
My favourite amongst all the great tennis stars? How can you ask? Has to be the one and only John McEnroe- That swinging serve, and that attitude has no parallel- and we were both rebels around about the same time. Now we're both poachers turned gamekeepers- nuff said!
Love to all- and back to the tennis!
Susan
