The Wine Country Word

10 Day Book Club

2011-12-30T10:38:00.000-08:00

I am, obviously, a sometime blogger, but would love to follow yours. Good for you!

Health On My Mind

2011-06-03T05:22:00.000-07:00

April 2011 issue of Consumer Reports has an article titled, Safeguarding Your Brain, that is worth checking out.

Also, the FAST method of checking for signs of stroke. F: Face—Ask the person to smile and look for droop on one side of the face; A: Arms—Raise their arms to see if one drifts down; S: Speech—Repeat a simple phrase, to determine if speech is slurred, and T: Time—Call 911 right away if any such symptoms are observed.

This is important stuff. Pass it on!

Taxes

2011-04-11T13:53:00.001-07:00

Yikes! I haven't done my taxes yet!

Rainy Portland

2011-04-11T13:51:00.001-07:00

Off to Portland to sit and watch the rain come down, and maybe get some revision work done on my next book.

Wanted to plant seeds before leaving, but maybe no time. There's always the Farmers' Market.

Chronic Pain

2011-03-18T12:30:00.000-07:00

Coping with chronic pain is bad enough, but most of us still have to work while we cope.

As one who has had to deal with tendinitis and related repetitive stress problems as a freelance writer, I'd like to direct others with similar problems to Page 10 of the American Chronic Pain Association Chronicle this month, where there is a helpful diagram for those who work all day with computers.

If you don't know already, a proper workstation is of primary importance for both avoidance of and living with pain in your workplace.

Believe me, RSS (repetitive stress syndrome) is a lot easier to prevent than cure. Check it out, then email them at the address below to become a member. They do great good for those of us who suffer as we work.

email:

Sun!

2011-03-07T11:12:00.000-08:00

At last! A crystalline day in Northern California! I rejoice and prune raspberries. Three chapters of my new book revised yesterday. Rainy days are good for writing—sunny days for gardening.

Post-Christmas Slump

2010-12-27T09:27:00.000-08:00

Settling in to the post-Christmas blues. Actually, it's a relief that it's over. I'm sure I'm not alone in that. This Christmas was weird, however, as we didn't get back from a trip to the South Pacific until the 20th (I know, but somebody has to do it), and then spent Christmas at relative's, so made close to zero preparations for the holiday.

We enjoyed not having to lift a finger, though, and still ending up well-fed. Not going through the agony of decision over whether to buy or cut a Christmas tree was refreshing, too. We didn't put one up at all. This meant I didn't have to crawl on hands and knees to the back of the closet to retrieve ornaments.

This year, I was the Grinch.

Top 12

2010-08-25T17:11:00.000-07:00

I'm happy and proud to report that my book, Accidental Cowgirl, was chosen as one of The Spirited Woman's Top 12 Books.

Work

2010-08-24T10:15:00.000-07:00

My blogTour is over. It was fun, but also work. So much of life is like that. But if you love your work, what's the problem?

Do you love your work? Tell me about it.

Win a Copy of Accidental Cowgirl

2010-08-18T13:05:00.000-07:00

Today is the day to win a copy of Accidental Cowgirl: Six Cows, Nor Horse and No Clue.

Check it out at Silver and Grace, where there is also a link to a book review.

Good luck!

Food

2010-08-16T16:32:00.000-07:00

My article on food today on "This Mama Cooks!" might be if interest, as it deals with a subject we all confront sooner or later. If you garden, or even think about it, I hope you enjoy it.

Here's the URL: . Click on "This Mama Cooks on a Diet."

The Wine Country Word: Hear it Here First!

2010-08-15T20:01:00.000-07:00

Here's the link to National Association of Memoir Wtiters. Enjoy!

Interests

2010-08-14T09:07:00.000-07:00

Well, Joe, it looks like you have even more interests than I do. Where do you find the time? BTW, my daughter is a singer/songwriter, too, but you have me at a disadvantage, communication-wise, as I don't speak German.

Hear it Here First!

2010-08-13T16:21:00.000-07:00

If you'd like to join NAMW (see below), Have I got a deal for you! Please go to their site and use the coupon below for special savings:

"In honor of Mary Lynn’s stop over at the National Association of Memoir Writer’s, we’ve created a coupon code for a $10 discount off any membership level at NAMW. This info isn’t published on our site, but as a member of NAMW Mary Lynn may choose to publish it elsewhere. This coupon can be used in addition to any other sale price offered on the NAMW website."

The code is FRIENDOFMARYLYNN
Expiration date: 8/31/2010

If you're interested in Accidental Cowgirl, please go to the National Association of Memoir Writers (NAMW) link above to hear me reading excerpts from the text.

"What, Me Ruralpolitan?

2010-07-29T13:18:00.001-07:00

I'm pretty stoked! Please read my article on AOL News today. And check out Red Room, too. Gina Misiroglu of Red Room put me in touch with the AOL people, which is one of the great ways in which she's bringing traffic to Red Room and getting attention for Red Room's authors.

Pretty cool, huh?

The Wine Country Word: WOW! Women On Writing Blog: Mary Lynn Archibald, author of Accidental Cowgirl, launches her blog tour!

2010-07-29T13:18:00.000-07:00

The Wine Country Word: WOW! Women On Writing Blog: Mary Lynn Archibald, author of Accidental Cowgirl, launches her blog tour!

WOW! Women On Writing Blog: Mary Lynn Archibald, author of Accidental Cowgirl, launches her blog tour!

2010-07-20T15:37:00.000-07:00

WOW! Women On Writing Blog: Mary Lynn Archibald, author of Accidental Cowgirl, launches her blog tour!

Indie Press Tries Minimum Advertised Pricing

2010-04-09T12:02:00.000-07:00

Indie Press Tries Minimum Advertised Pricing: ""There's such rampant discounting. The idea is really to keep the ..."

Accidental Cowgirl Appears in Person!

2010-03-26T12:45:00.000-07:00

If you live in Sonoma County, check this out:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Mary Lynn Archibald
707-395-0542 Phone
707-529-9873 Cell
marylynn@winecountrywriter.com

“Accidental Cowgirl” to Appear at Cloverdale Seniors’
Annual Spring Literary Luncheon

Healdsburg, CA March 26, 2010—Mary Lynn Archibald, long-time local resident and three-time award winner for her second book, Accidental Cowgirl: Six Cows, No Horse and No Clue, will be the guest speaker at Cloverdale Senior Center’s Spring Literary Luncheon, Saturday, April 17th.

The theme of the book, the saga of how two suburban greenhorns spent twelve years attempting to raise a herd of Polled Hereford cattle in the remote wilds of Trinity County California, has a much wider appeal than even the author expected. As one magazine columnist put it recently, “Don't we all, deep down, long to be cowgirls and cowboys?

It was, however, something that the then interior designer had never planned to do—shoveling manure being somewhat incompatible with manicured nails and chic business suits.

“In 1990, we heard the wilderness call to us, and God help us, we answered,” says Archibald. Her book, now in its second printing, is the humorous account of what happened next. Says reviewer Alice Berger: “Rarely do I find a book so enjoyable that I savor it in small nibbles, like fine chocolate. Accidental Cowgirl is such a book.”

Mary Lynn believes in the personal essay and memoir form. “People nowadays are truly interested in sharing their own history as it is made,” She also teaches the art of memoir.
Her next book contrasts her small-town idyllic childhood with her young adulthood in the big, bad city of San Francisco, learning the ropes as a chorus girl, fashion model, sales clerk and switchboard operator.

Archibald will speak about and read from her work at the Senior Center Literary Luncheon from 1-3 P.M. on the 17th. The Center is located at 311 Main Street in Cloverdale. Call 894-4826 to reserve a table for 4-6, or to make an individual reservation. A $25 donation is requested. You may also reserve online at their website: http://www.cloverdaleseniorcenter.com/?p=466.

The author will also be signing her books at the event.

Hands

2010-03-17T09:50:00.000-07:00

Don't know if you have this problem, but I have to take some time away from the computer. My hands hurt and go numb. Tendinitis. Nasty. Back soon.

What To Do About Publishing?

2010-03-10T14:56:00.000-08:00

As noted so ably by my recent guest blogger, Julia Lindsey, there are many options to consider nowadays, when it comes to deciding how to publish what you write.

If you're an author, it's always tempting to go with a conventional publisher, especially if you desire hand-holding and instant prestige. But wait! Unless you're the Next Big Thing (or a recycled Last Big Thing), don't count on either one.

Unless you can sell 10-25,000 out of the gate, you may not even be able to make back your advance. And that's after you've spent it!

Self-publishing may be the answer, but that's only if you're a do-it-yourselfer, like me. There are many pitfalls to be overstepped there as well, but at least you have a lot more control over the process and the product.

The two biggest obstacles to overcome with self-publishing are decisions about printing and distribution. And if you don't employ someone to help you market, then you have to spend the time to learn all there is to learn (or all you can) about marketing, and believe me, there is a lot to learn. It helps to have a buddy who can do some info-sharing with you, especially if your budget is tight (and whose is not?)

Just in case you didn't have enough to worry about.

Guest Post from an Independent Publisher/Bookstore

2010-02-20T09:50:00.000-08:00

Are You An Author, Small Publisher, Or Independent Book Seller? How Can We All Work Together?

The book market is changing rapidly and it is time for the small publishers, authors and independent booksellers to unite to keep a small piece of the pie. No matter if you are an author, small publishing company or independent book- seller, you are generally passionate about what you do and most likely do not do it just for the money.
If you are an author you may have difficulty getting your book noticed by a large publishing house, and if you self publish you will have trouble getting noticed by the bookstore chains. Small publishing companies do not have the marketing budget to promote the authors or give large advances on royalties. Independent book sellers are often reluctant to buy from small publishing houses and self published authors because they cannot offer the standard 40% discount that the booksellers require to make a profit. We all struggle in our own way and if we are all going to survive we must learn what we can do to help each other.

So what can we do to work together?

Authors must take on the responsibility of promoting their own books. They have the passion to sell and promote their books. Since most authors do not have the money to do a big marketing campaign they can develop an online platform. They could have a blog to promote their book or topics related to the book. They could guest blog on other sites to promote their book, or on a topic related to their book.

If you are trying to get a bookseller to have your book on the shelf you should be aware that they are also trying to make money. You will have to give them a discount of at least 40-50%. Independent bookstores are in competition with the large bookstore chains. Most of the owners love books and are in the business because it is their passion. Authors with publish-on-demand books can sometimes convince a bookstore to stock their books by offering them on consignment. The authors provide copies of their books and give them to the bookstore to place on their shelves. The bookstore doesn't pay the author for the book until it sells. If it doesn't sell, the book is returned to the author. This can work with an author who has a strong local following.

Independent publishers are likely not independently wealthy and they typically are not in the business for just the money. Most independent publishers do not have the volume of sales to be able to have large marketing budgets. Publishers can have blogs related to writing, publishing and marketing books. They could also write book reviews and author interviews, with a link to a small bookseller to buy the book. The bookstore could offer a commission on sales from the referrals.

Independent bookstores generally do not have the time to do social networking. They should have a website, but probably do not have time to blog or promote their store on Twitter. But they could run a promotion on the book at the same time the author and publisher are promoting it with social networking. A book signing could also be set up at the same time. During that time total book sales could increase.

These are just some ideas for cooperation instead of competition. Let’s brainstorm other ways we can work together.

Bio

Julia M Lindsey is a published author and a student of personal development. Her love of reading and her mission to inspire others to find their inner passion, led to the co-founding of Our Little Books. Our Little Books is a small independent publishing company dedicated to publishing inspirational, educational and fun little books that fit into a pocket or purse. A little book is a great way to promote your business and to be seen as an expert in your field. For more information and to request a free publishing consultation, visit http://www.ourlittlebooks.com/contact/.

Great New Service for Authors

2010-01-13T10:08:00.000-08:00

Check this out if you're an author with books to sell.

Who's Afraid of Obamacare?

2009-08-10T10:57:00.000-07:00

Me, for one! This whole deal is a giant power grab. Does anyone realize how much power Obama will control when he pulls this giant bit of wool over our eyes?

Wine Country Writer Hangs Out There

2009-06-08T11:10:00.000-07:00

Gotta simplify. Please look for me on either Facebook or Twitter. No time for other blogs.

Thanks, ML

Wanderlust

2007-10-04T18:50:00.000-07:00

Off to Albuquerque to sell books and meet new family members.

I'll get the newsletter out when I return, I promise!

If you're a Sonoma County resident, Accidental Cowgirl will be available next week at Copperfield's Books. Pick up a copy, and let me know what you think.

Thanks, ML

"Problems are good, not bad. Welcome them and become the solution. When you have solved enough problems, people will thank you."
- Mark Victor Hansen

Amazing OpenSource Software!

2007-09-28T15:09:00.000-07:00

If you are ready for some easy (well, relatively easy) web development software (which YOU control yourself, even though you are a programming virgin), then check out Joomla! I'm getting some help from an aficionado in Scotland, no less, and I'm starting to understand it, a little.

You can do an awful lot with it, and you are your own webmaster. Gotta love that.

Still speaking to fraternal organizations, etc., and selling books! (Distributor still doesn't have them in the warehouse, but I have some, and I'm selling those.) What an education in marketing I'm getting with Accidental Cowgirl. And what fun!

Rain on Sunday, they say. Fall is here. Get your pumpkins ready. Our dog always helps!

Ciao,

ML

Back In The Saddle

2007-09-05T12:44:00.000-07:00

Got back from Yosemite last Tuesday, but hard to get back to deadlines, writing my next book, etcetera.

I had two free days before the conference, so we saw some of the park, had lunch at the Ahwanee Lodge, and checked out the wildlife (not at the lodge). Saw lots of chipmunks, but no bears. Fine with me! Yosemite is very dry this year, and that's sad, whether you believe Al Gore or not.

Met lots of nice folks, sold lots of books, and learned a bit while renewing an old acquaintance in Bonnie Hearn Hill, a former writing teacher, who started the conference four years ago.

Speaking of nice folks, check out the Spirited Woman website link above. Nancy Mills has a great newsletter. Mine (Wine Country Words) will publish again, as soon as I get caught up—promise.

I'm starting to market in earnest—I plan a book launch party for Accidental Cowgirl this month, and will do a road trip in Oct., Nov., to meet with book clubs, speak at bookstores and to other interested parties. Please let me know if you'd like me to speak to your organization.

Ciao,

ML

The Mountains are Calling

2007-08-21T22:03:00.000-07:00

Well, we're off to the Yosemite Valley for the Yosemite Writers' Conference. It should be a real trip!

I'll give you the rundown when I return, but I know it will be amazing, even though I haven't seen it for nearly 50 years.

Downloaded a useful item from the site: "What To Do If You See A Bear." Hope we don't need that one.

Great news! Accidental Cowgirl will be sold at the conference, and will also appear on the August 27th cover of Publisher's Weekly, along with 14 others. I am greatly honored.

Stay tuned. Newsletter soon.

Ciao,

ML

Go Northwest, Young Woman!

2007-08-07T10:05:00.001-07:00

Hello All,

I'm just back from Portland, OR, where I had the best Sunday Brunch experience I've ever had.

The restaurant in question is the Screendoor. I had the Blueberry and Cornmeal Pancakes, with Maple Syrup and Homemade Chicken/Apple Sausage,and my companions had Crab Benedict with Home Fries, and Mushroom Hash with crispy Pommes Frites (French fries), and a side of Screedoor Praline Bacon (maple/pecan glazed bacon), from which I could have made an entire meal!

Topped that off with Ramos Fizz, Apple Cider, and a couple of Prosecco Mimosas. That, plus tasty bottomless cups of Stumptown Coffee, and we were set for the day!

One word: Yum!

I also had a wonderful time with a local book club whose members had read my latest book, and it was so good to meet enthusiastic readers. Portland is full of them, by the way.

Before that, I attended the Hollywood Book Festival in Hollywood, CA. Great weather, but the festival itself was underwhelming. Maybe next year.

Great trip, but good to be home.

Ciao,

ML

Women's Voices

2007-07-20T10:58:00.001-07:00

If you want a woman to speak at your next event or seminar, Women for Hire is a great place to start.

This is a new service that has received much press of late.

As one who is just beginning to speak about my books and about the process of writing the memoir or autobiography, I think this is a great service, both for the women and for the people who hire them to speak.

If you are a trained speaker with a message, check it out right now, as they have a special price for a short time only.

If you want someone to speak about writing the autobiography or memoir, that would be me. I'll be in L.A. from the 27th-31st, and in Portland from the 1st-7th. Send me an e-mail if you need a speaker at those times and in those places. Meanwhile, the newsletter will be out before I leave northern California next week.

Best,

ML

Accidental Cowgirl Coming Soon!

2007-07-03T09:48:00.000-07:00

Accidental Cowgirl: Six Cows, No Horse and No Clue, is finally at the printer's and poised to be released August 1. It's been a long ride (especially without a horse), but it's finally in the works!

I'm starting my road trip early, to Los Angeles, where I will attend the Hollywood Book Festival, and go thence to Portland, to meet with a book group. The August calendar of my scheduled appearances is on the website, on the media page. If you live in either of these cities, let me know if you'd like me to attend your book group meeting while I'm there.

Subscribers! Check Your E-mail!

2007-06-15T11:34:00.000-07:00

Hey, troops! The newsletter (Wine Country Words, for the uninitiated) is finally in your "In" boxes, and as they say in the "Publisher's Lunch" newsletter ("Published daily except when not"), this one is more like "Published monthly except when not."

In my efforts to give you a variety of content, I sometimes fall down on the publishing part. From now on, no more apologies. That's just the way it is.

What can I say? I'm a flawed human being...mea culpa. Now stop crying and get used to it.

Ciao,

ML

If Lateness is A Virtue, I am the Virtue Queen!

2007-05-31T10:49:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking (that's why I'm late with my newsletter—I can't do two things at once), and as the galley proofs of my latest memoir have just come of the press, my thoughts of course turned to farming and ranching, both of which I've tried, and don't recommend if you enjoy leisure and money as much as I do.

But it was fun (and exhausting) while it lasted (12 very busy years).

Should your thoughts turn to something similar, check out the web page link above. I write for New Holland, but for a different branch, ACRES: Innovative Country Living Magazine (see it at your friendly neighborhood New Holland dealership). Great general and specific ranching and farming and country living articles abound in both ACRES and the New Holland News, so if you're serious—and you'd better read "Accidental Cowgirl" before you throw your cowboy hat into the ring—browse the site above. You can see a preview of "AC" at my website, .

I'll keep you posted.

Newsletter is coming soon! Meanwhile I just have one thing to say: "Yeehaw!"

—ML

New Link for Writers, Editors and Publishers

2007-05-10T12:02:00.000-07:00

Hey, Savvy Ladies,

Check out my new blogger panel, (at bottom),featuring the Publilsher's Lunch Job Board.

Lots of new listings are created every day, so if you're jobhunting in the literary mode, it's a great place to look, and it's updated every day.

Meanwhile, I go back to writing my next newsletter, and figuring out how to market my new book, Accidental Cowgirl, in the next few months.

It's going to Book Expo America in New York City, as is Briarhopper, my first book.
I'm excited!

Question: Would you like to see decorating snippets, or gardening, or herbs or writing or small business or country living thoughts, or health, or...what? I'm open to a conversation about any or all of these topics, and if you ask a question I can't answer, I'll let you know, or try to find one.

Best,

ML

Back in the Saddle Again

2007-05-07T11:34:00.000-07:00

I'm back from L.A. (Big book expo there last weekend—44,000 people!)

Ready to start marketing my new book, Accidental Cowgirl, though the official publication date is still a couple of months away.
I'll have a few "unofficial" copies before then, and it seems it is never too late to start flogging your book (or so they tell me).

If you'd like to order an early printing, let me know.

Just finished another newsletter (go to my website to sign up), and I have a new article at the link above, on antique roses, should you have an interest.

That's all for now. Drop me a line and let me know how you're doing, and what kinds of articles you'd like to see in the newsletter.

Best,

ML

Some News from the Silent One

2007-04-15T12:58:00.000-07:00

Hi there,y'all,

The silent one would be me. The good news is that the next newsletter is nearly done, and should hit your desktop some time next week.

What with Easter and getting my manuscript to the book designer, I've been busy.

Whew!

Hope you all had a great Easter!

Best.

ML

Still A Blogging Virgin

2007-03-20T10:42:00.000-07:00

Yep. I read all the posts, especially those of the savvy ladies above, but I still don't get it—could some dear soul please explain tagging and pinging to me?

I guess I have to read more of the info on Technorati. As noted, I just cleared the way for you, dear reader, to post to this blog, so please be my guest. But be gentle. Us computer and Internet dummies don't particularly like having our stupidity pointed out to us.

Thanks. Meanwhile, I'll be in the garden, digging holes, though I don't do nearly as thorough a job as my dog, Fizzbo, when she is after gophers. If I could only channel and direct that energy! Hmmm...

ML

P.S.: The only reason I'm allowing myself some time to putter is that I've finally, as of today, finished the final draft of my book, Accidental Cowgirl.

YeeHaw!

GottaBook

2007-02-27T08:53:00.000-08:00

GottaBook

This is an utterly enjoyable site for kidlit aficionados, or humor aficionados, or both. If you're looking for a lift, visit this blog!

Thanks, Greg

ML (from the wilds of Northern California).

Better Late Than...

2007-02-22T11:57:00.000-08:00

Lots of new things on my website soon, but first of all, let me apologize for taking so long to post. I have had two lovely lady friends visiting this week, and what with the holiday, etc., etc., I have been remiss.

I'm in the process of recording my first book, Briarhopper, on CD, so if you like to listen more than you like to read, this is for you. I know I often find I get more learning and entertainment while I'm in my car than I do at home, because it's so hard to find the time (and a quiet place) to read anymore. When I DO read, I feel guilty because I'm not multitasking! What a world we live in...

Please write to me here or by the e-mail address above, and let me know what you'd like to see in the newsletter, on any of the topics above. It's YOUR newsletter, so make it work for you.

Thanks, we'll talk soon.

ML

A Veritable Valentine Whirlwind!

2007-02-14T16:39:00.000-08:00

Hello all,

First of all, Happy Valentine's Day to you!

I'm getting ready for a power-packed, really big finish on my newsletter (available free at the website above), say, sometime next week, and then you won't hear from me until mid-March or so.

Why? Because I really must buckle down and finish my book, Accidental Cowgirl, in time to enter it at Book Expo America in NYC in June.

So check out the next newsletter, and wish me luck!

ML

Rain, Rain, Rain

2007-02-11T21:32:00.000-08:00

Back from the coast, where all the storms arrive first. It is a truly elemental experience, watching them arrive on land.

I spent the last week there, and without Internet access, I felt really cut off, but there was always the local Internet café, and though I had to buy overpriced coffee for the privilege, I was able to check my e-mail. I'd forgotten how dependent I was on that.

Good to be home. Gotta work on my free newsletter, the next installment coming up next week, I hope.

ML

Tiptoe Through Your Past

2007-01-23T11:55:00.000-08:00

We're back from a whirlwind trip to the East Bay to visit four sets of relatives (one visit to ex-inlaws, one to my brother's house to drop off Christmas presents (!), and see two sets of children and their cousins), all in one day! Not terribly satisfying and a lot of driving, but when your kids live out-of-state, you have to see them when you can, even for a few hours.

Dog complained bittely the whole time, as my brother's dog had to stay inside and Fizzbo had to stay outside, except for a quick romp through the flower beds when we arrived.

Ate too much and talked too loud. The usual family gathering.

Back at work on my memoir, Accidental Cowgirl. Will it never end?

ML

Thank God its January!

2007-01-13T14:49:00.000-08:00

As many have observed before me, being your own boss means you can write in your pajamas, anytime. That's the good news. The bad news is, that being your own boss means you can write in your pajamas, anytime.

So here I sit in my pajamas, slovenly and content. I think my husband has forgotten what I look like dressed up.

It's mighty cold here in Northern California these days, but it least the Christmas rush is behind us and we can get down to more serious things, which in my case means marketing like mad. I've gotten a few reviews of my book, Briarhopper, and so far they're favorable. This has emboldened me to finally finish Accidental Cowgirl, which I started six years ago. I'm almost done. Then I can market them both at the same time—isn't that what they call working smarter? I hope so—wish me luck.

The garden is under 6 inches of hay and the citrus orchard, which is in pots, has been moved as close as possible to the house for reflected warmth. It was 27° on our back deck this morning. Saw great blue heron on my chilly doggie-walk. Wish us luck tonight. So far only one of our pipes has burst.

Fruity!

2006-12-08T11:21:00.000-08:00

I'm pleased to report that we have achieved that most enviable of states for a small ranch: Year-round fruit from our own garden. Right now, we have Fuyu persimmons ripening, as the pears go from ripe to overripe and are recycled into our compost. I still have a handful of raspberries every morning for breakfast, and there are a few winter apples left.

My lavender is ready to harvest, though I missed my chance for rose hip tea, as the first frost took care of that as well as the tomatoes and basil. A few strawberries are hiding in the weeds.

And the cycle continues, with persimmons into spring, and blueberries in May. Something to look forward to.

Here's wishing you a healthy and lovely Christmas, and a Happy New Year.

ML

Winter Winds

2006-11-29T11:27:00.000-08:00

You know what they are—those winds that cut to the bone, right through your clothes. Cold feet, cold hands. Time to head for milder climes. It was 28º last night, which may not seem like much to you Easterners, but those of us who live in NoCal (Northern California), forget what winter feels like and are astonished every year when it comes.

Tomatoes are truly dead now, but I still have fresh raspberries from the garden every morning, so it's not too bad here!

I'll be incommunicado until next Monday, so will post again next week.

Ciao!

Mary Lynn

Post-Thanksgiving Blues

2006-11-25T12:59:00.000-08:00

Well, it was a quiet Thanksgiving. Our children were elsewhere and we two just made a couple of yummy recipes out of the November Gourmet (the Turkey Roulade and the Brussels Sprouts with Wild Mushrooms and Fried Shallots). It was yummy! Still is.

Now, my sweetie has me out fertilizing the roses (we have about 100) before the rain which is promised tomorrow. It better happen, is all I have to say! But I think about the thousands of lovely blooms we will have in May, and I am cheered.

Hope your holiday was wonderful.

—ML

Rain and Publicity

2006-11-16T16:26:00.000-08:00

I can't get enough of Joan Stewart—She's a genius!

Anyway, she's helped me so much with my marketing. She's been at it a lot longer than me, and it sure shows...

Tomorrow is the Big Launch! My press release goes out all over the country. Scarey! But I'm ready. I just hope the world is ready for me!

My book sales go okay, but I really need them to climb, to pay off my book expenses. If you've ever published a book, you know what I'm talkin' about. Whoee. But it's fun.

Rainy and gray in Northern California. I hate it, but it's great writing weather.

Later.

ML

Here Comes the Sun!

2006-11-11T12:35:00.000-08:00

Today finds me, little freelance writing beaver that I am, writing about alternative energy systems for one magazine, and tiny hamlets in Sonoma County California for another.

It's a good thing it's not difficult for me to switch gears, even on a burnout Saturday, but I can't complain. I get paid for the articles, the sun is shining, (appropriate don't you think?) and soon I plan to be out in it, pulling weeds to my heart's content. To add to the thrill, my house is finally clean and my desk is nearly organized.

I find when my weeds are pulled, my book is published, and my house is clean, I'm happy little freelancer.

How about you?

—ML

More Tomatoes, Plus a Rumination on Blogs

2006-11-06T20:16:00.000-08:00

We still have tomatoes, even outside. I hear it's getting more difficult to find them for sale, according to our local paper, the Press Democrat, which I write for from time to time (usually quarterly, and lately in the weekend Simply Real Estate section, where lately my writings have been about local history—a little column called, "Hamlets."

But on to blogs. How do people find time to read them?

That is the question of the week.

Also, my erstwhile newsletter should be appearing on my website later this week, so keep the faith!

ML

Tomatoes

2006-10-29T21:47:00.000-08:00

Folks are starting to wonder what to do when the fresh, garden-raised tomatoes are gone. Some have already had enough frost to kill their tomato vines.

We had a surplus this year, and I froze some for soups and stews as the weather cools. Rain tomorrow, or the next day. We need it. I already miss the extra sunlight, though.

The folks at Simple Living have some terrific gardening expertise. Check 'em out. And if you've got any tomatoes left, pick 'em now, before it's too late. There's always spaghetti sauce.

New Technology

2006-10-26T17:00:00.000-07:00

Well, I finally bought what is now called a "thumb drive," but what is actually a SanDisk® Cruzer® Micro USB Flash Drive. Reminds me of Pampers™, but will, I hope, serve me better than those!

Now I can put both of my books (Briarhopper: A History, available so far at my site www.winecountrywriter.com, booklocker.com, and barnesandnoble.com) and Accidental Cowgirl: Six Cows, No Horse and No Clue, on this handy 1 GB storage device that I can carry on my key ring! Quelle miracle!

I'll let you know how it works.

Meanwhile, have you tried acupuncture for what ails you? I don't get migraines any more (though I've suffered from them since I was fifteen—right after the earth's crust cooled).

That's got to be a miracle: one in which I participate once a month, for the balance that's in it (I am a Libra, after all!)

If you've had a similar experience, please let me know.

ML

Thoughts on Aging

2006-10-21T20:11:00.000-07:00

I happened to be thinking about aging the other day, as it was my birthday.

Also, I'm about to have another publicity picture taken, to promote my new book, Briarhopper. I worry about this, as I have noticed recently that I don't take good pictures anymore.

I try to be philosophical, but even my dog looks at me with pity.

Will nanotechnology rescue me from the knife?

Will it rescue you? If you're a good deal younger than me, it's possible.

ML

Another Reflection on Aging Gracefully

2006-10-21T19:59:00.000-07:00

On the other hand, even though nobody asks me for my ID anymore, I sat next to a woman recently whom I thought to be nearly 10 years my senior, and she said she was the same age. I was shocked.

Guess I should just be happy with good genes (and maybe good jeans, as well).

ML

The Book!

2006-10-17T08:44:00.000-07:00

I almost forgot! My memoir, Briarhopper, is finally at Booklocker.com, for viewing and/or buying. Check it out, at: Booklocker.com or BarnesandNoble.com.

She's Baaack!

2006-10-17T08:29:00.000-07:00

Well, NYC was a mixed bag. Weather was great, Ground Zero was profoundly depressing and difficult to comprehend, train trip was a blend of equal parts gorgeous scenery, lateness and mediocre food.

The dog was mildly glad to see us, but since she had been allowed into her host's bed in our absence (something we never allow), she was ready to go back to her house where the accommodations are better and the treats show up more frequently.

Back to the grind, and getting caught up!

ML

Greetings from Sunny New York

2006-10-05T09:32:00.000-07:00

Big storm last night, but all is mostly sunny today.

Took the train to Newark from Martinez, CA. 3 1/2 days of terrible food and gorgeous scenery, but it was worth it. I love the train, and I've got the bruises to prove it!

Met a lot of nice people on our travels. We had a roomette. This is a compartment so small that you need to be well acquainted with your fellow traveler or it is terribly awkward, especially when you go to sleep.

More expensive than a plane, for sure, but feels safer. NY skyline looks naked without the Twin Towers. So unbearably horrific, what happened here 5 years ago, it strains the mind's credulity.

Change of subject: If you can, get your flu shots, and soon. People over 50 are especially vulnerable (not that I'm admitting to anything, you understand).

Back to CA on the 14th. Many heavy-duty family affairs between now and then. Wish me luck!

My first book, Briarhopper, has just been uploaded to Booklocker.com. Yay! It's a memoir, and a long time coming. Wish me luck on that one, too. Anyone want to review it? If you do, it's free!

Best,

Mary Lynn

Wine Words

2006-09-11T13:35:00.000-07:00

According to Kevin McCallum of the Press Democrat, "Sonoma County's $2 billion wine industry is in a broad recovery from the lean years of 2001-2004..." This is good news and bad news.

We who live in wine country would like to see the wine industry grow more slowly and sustainably, but it sure helps the local economy. But that's a minor thought for today.

Today, my thoughts go out to the survivors of 9/11 and their fragmented families.

I've heard folks referring to 9/11 as a "tragedy." It was that and more. We must never forget that on that day in 2001, the U.S. was attacked. This made it not so much a tragedy, which it was, but an act of war on our own soil. Looked at that way, I think we need to stop being so politically correct (which the enemy, rightly, regards as weakness, and remember we are, and will be for generations to come, at war, with terrorists who have no regard for human life, least of all their own.

Plant your victory gardens and keep the faith.

Dieting Again...

2006-09-10T14:43:00.000-07:00

Got to fit into my new jeans and the black cocktail dress. Problem is, I never diet. At least not lately. Does anybody out there know of a good one, besides of course, eating less and exercising more.

I did go back to the gym last week, but fretting over publication of Briarhopper (my first book), and finishing my second has me searching for chocolate and something stronger, which hasn't helped yet as far as the diet is concerned.

More later. Gotta go to a writer's group meeting on book marketing.

ML

The Wine Country Word

2006-09-03T17:30:00.000-07:00

The Wine Country Word
Ahhh...holiday weekends. Sleeping late, doing a little gardening, thinking about what to plant for the winter garden.

Still enjoying the summer's bounty: Tomatoes, summer squash, watermelons, peppers (both hot and tame), strawberries, raspberries, cucumbers. A freezer full of blueberries. Fresh pear tart. Blueberry and rhubarb pie. Apples dropping. Figs getting ripe. Heaven!

Ongoing Struggle

2006-09-02T09:54:00.000-07:00

Still trying to add a photo and a voice message. Shot half my day trying yesterday. I am a self-confessed HTML dummy.

I'll keep trying, but now I have to get back to my forthcoming book, Accidental Cowgirl: Six Cows, No Horse and No Clue. I'm in the editing stage now—sigh. But it has to be done.

I also must write my September 1st newsletter—it being September 2nd already.

Harvest has already begun in the wine country. I'm predicting an early winter.

More later.

Ciao,

Mary Lynn

New Month; New Resolution

2006-09-01T14:13:00.000-07:00

Okay. I failed miserably at posting regularly in the past, but I've changed! Honest. (I'm even writing in my journal again).

First, thanks for the visit. Second, I'd also love it if you'd visit my brand new website. And third, I'm going to make another stab at posting a photo. I got so balled up last time I tried, I gave up. If any of you blogging vets out there can talk me through it, I'm open to help. Help!

When that works, my disposition is sure to improve. So will my husband's. Heck, even the dog will feel better, because as they say, "If mama ain't happy, ain't NOBODY happy!"

—ML

More Grammatical Faux Pas

2005-05-11T10:01:00.000-07:00

How about another favorite of mine (usually, but not always uttered by the younger set): "Anyways, it was SO fun!"

More Grammatical Agony

2005-05-03T08:01:00.000-07:00

I used to cringe at the current usage of "hopefully," finding it difficult to accept "Hopefully she will come soon," rather than, "He looked at her hopefully," but now I find it creeps into my own sentences.

Am I bowing to currency, or just getting lazy? I fear it is the latter.

How about you?

—ML

Where the Heart Is

2005-04-29T09:55:00.000-07:00

According to many experts, women have still not received the message that heart health is of utmost importance to women. As one who follows the latest developments in prevention, I now realize that taking care of my heart needs to be a top priority for me. Female or male, It should be for you, as well.

The symptoms of a heart attack can be very different for women than for men. If you are female, be aware that you might not even experience chest pain as most men do when having a heart attack. According to Web MD, you "may just have a little bit of jaw pain, shoulder ache, nausea, vomiting, or shortness of breath."

Eat your veggies (and your fruit), nuts, beans, greens, etc. A little fish. A little poultry. Very little beef, fat, sugar and alcohol. The good news? A little dark chocolate is okay. Enyoy the summer's bounty. Be well.

Trippingly on the Tongue?

2005-04-26T09:42:00.000-07:00

Like most people I don't always use grammar correctly, at least when speaking. That can work to good effect sometimes, especially where humor is intended—although I don't find it particularly humorous when a recorded voice on the telephone is forever reminding me that, "Calls will be answered in the order they were received." Where did that come from?

If the statement grates on your nerves, it should. The correct statement is, "Calls will be answered in the order IN WHICH they were received."

Now I've probably really spoiled it for you.

I have to tell you I'm concerned. Just because you hear something repeated constantly in the media doesn't mean it's correct. I fear our language is languishing.

What's your English grammar pet peeve?

Please let me know by posting at this site. I'm making a collection of the most annoying grammar gaffes. I hope (not HOPEFULLY) we'll all learn something.

—ML

2005-04-25T11:57:00.000-07:00

I have some new ideas, some opinionated statements, and some tools I think might be of help to many.

Watch this site for news tomorrow. I promise.

Health, wealth and happiness to you.

Mary Lynn

Confessions of a Virgin Blogger

2005-01-26T12:09:00.000-08:00

As one who to whom words come more easily than technology, I must attest that this process of creating a blog could not have been easier! (Now all I need is the time to post to my new blog, and the inspiration to make it of more than passing interest to many).