Getting Those Juices Flowing...

No, not those juices! Geesh, where's your mind at?

I'm talking about those creative juices. You know, the inspiration, the ideas, the stuff needed to breathe life into stories.

Writing is a pretty solitary job. I mean, think about it—we sit in front of a computer all day, putting those snippets of scenes that flash through our minds onto our version of paper. We'll stare off into space, watching our own imaginary world unfold—while anyone who sees us doing that is thinking we're probably having some kind of break from reality. And okay, maybe we are. Not necessarily a bad thing, right?

We create characters, real live people (to us and—if done right—to the readers) with their own hopes and dreams and fears and interactions.

But when it comes to interacting in real life? Hmm…maybe not so much. When your job involves living in a make-believe world, shut away from the real one while you create your own, you don't always have time to "hang out". Then throw in the fact that quite a few writers also happen to be introverts and…well, you get the picture.

Creative juices are flowing in Nashville!

That's why writers love hanging around other writers. Have you ever been to a conference or booksigning, near the beginning during set-up? It's a huge hug-fest, with lots of smiles and laughter and talking. That's because writers get writers. It's normal to stare off into space (sometimes in the middle of a conversation). It's normal to talk about a character and her problems and issues and goals as if she was a real live person (because, you know, she is). Other writers get that, in a way nobody else can.

And that's why writers' retreats are the next best thing to falling into a vat of chocolate. You can sit down, discuss ideas, talk about those real characters. Plan and vent and rant and bounce ideas off each other. Get a group of writers together and that plot bump you've been struggling with suddenly disappears. Get a group of writers together and the inspiration and motivation takes off like that proverbial runaway train.

I just got back from a writers' retreat—this one in Nashville, with four fantastic ladies who kick some serious butt when it comes to inspiration and motivation. We're all at different stages in our careers but that doesn't matter—because we're writers.

Enjoying some downtime in Nashville--all in the name of research, of course!

And no, it wasn't all business. I mean, we were in Nashville—of course we're going to go out and play. And we did—from eating popcorn and watching Beauty and the Beast in our pj's, to hitting Opry Mills Mall and eating German food, to seeing the Grand Ole Opry and hitting up a honky tonk or three on lower Broadway (alcohol may or may not have been involved). It was a week of bonding, of writing, of bouncing around ideas and creating grand business plans. Of motivation. Of accountability.

Of friendship.

That's the other great thing about writers. Because of our jobs, we don't get a chance to see each other in person very often. But the distance—in both physical location and in time apart—doesn't matter. Months can go by until we see each other again and it doesn't matter. We'll hug and scream and laugh and carry on as if only a day has gone by. Then we'll get right down to business and talk about our characters and problems and inspire one another. Motivate one another.

Kicking it up at the Nashville Palace.

And I wouldn't have it any other way.

But for now, I need to get back to my characters and their world. I have a schedule to keep to, and four wonderful ladies who will be kicking my butt if I don't stick to it!

***************

Lisa B. Kamps is currently juggling three series about real characters with real lives and real problems living in her head: The Baltimore Banners, The York Bombers, and Firehouse Fourteen. Her latest title, Second Alarm, is scheduled for release July 26 and can be ordered by clicking here.

To learn more about Lisa, please visit her website or follow her on Facebook and Instagram.

Hey, 2016, Looking Forward To Knowing You -- Michelle Monkou

Not sure if I'm the unusual one who loves the winding down of the present year, while anticipating the steady approach of the new year. For me, the feeling is like slipping off a well-worn coat and picking a new, lighter wear as my accessory. I have no choice, but to go forward through that door marked 2016.

Because really, 2016 doesn't care if you're ready or not.

The new year isn't waiting to hear if we have prepared for it or, likewise, isn't disappointed if we just lazed around and stayed comatose on the couch. Doesn't matter if the weather is picture perfect or there're storms harkening to the Old Testament, upon its arrival.

The New Year will not be denied.

If we don't really have to prepare and we don't have to do anything spectacular, then why not welcome it with a smile and a happy heart. It's my philosophy these days.

With a big grin, I shout with a cheesy grin  - Welcome! Welkom! Ongi etorri! Bien Binidu! Tervetuloa! Maeva! Croeso!

And, I look forward to walking through that great big door and sharing with all of you my 2016 book releases. The writing cave will be in heavy use with a little bit of sexy romances, urban fantasies, and women's fiction coming your way.

Here's January's release coming soon: TO SEDUCE A BILLIONAIRE

What it's about: Take a trip to Monaco and meet the Laurent brothers—Damien, Dane, Dallon. Seducing A Billionaire is three connected stories of this powerful dynasty that thrives in the high-end real estate market. While this next generation continues the Laurent legacy, they are also Monaco's eligible and downright sexy bachelors. Falling in love may not be on the agenda. Yet, romance knows no bounds when the right women—Anna, Yasmin, Nicola—seduces her man.

Stay connected with me via my newsletter, Facebook or through my website for the release date information and buy links.

Tell us, how you're planning to welcome 2016.


Happy Reading and Happy New Year!

Michelle Monkou

When Music or Movies Make Everything Brighter by Michelle Monkou

We can all acknowledge that writing is a solitary venture. Short of co-authoring, only one person will sit in front of the computer and type the story. But once there, in front of the blank screen, we tend to need things like snacks, maybe music, or even TV. Of course, quite a number of people may need absolute quiet.

I will often write the first draft to music. I have an eclectic taste that ranges from R&B to Pop to Rock, Korean Pop, to classical, and Big Band music. But lately, I found that I’ve been reaching for my favorite movie series to accompany those writing marathons.

My go to selection is J. R. R. Tolkien’s Lord of The Rings directed by Peter Jackson. How can I go wrong with an epic series that is over a gazillion hours long combined. The soundtrack alone is the perfect accompaniment for those long haul moments in front of the keyboard.

Then I move on to Harry Potter series. Now this isn’t really about music, but nostalgia. I know a lot of the key lines and can’t wait for the scenes so that I can repeat them with matching feeling.

Then there’s the Outlander series on Starz, but that is so visually distracting, along with the beautiful lines spoken between the characters that I end up pausing to watch entire scenes. No, I really shouldn’t include this one LOL

Occasionally I will pull out my Twilight series, which I do love. I also have the soundtracks that are just wickedly great compilations.

This last go-round when I had to complete my latest project, Netflix, my new writer’s companion, provided Grease and Dirty Dancing for my viewing pleasure. Not only can I really really go down memory lane, but I can sing at the top of my lungs to every song. And I have no problem stepping away from the computer to do a couple of the dance moves from Grease.

As you can see, my writing can be quite active depending on the playlist or movie list. If you can make writing fun, then why not entertain the other parts of the brain and body.

I hope you’re tapping your foot to a fun beat to make the mundane go by easier or faster, or just to fill the air with beautiful sounds.

All the best,

Michelle Monkou

Michelle Monkou (http://michellemonkou.com) is a multi-published author with over 20 books in print and digital. She’s also a weekly contributor on USA TODAY’s Happy Ever Blog providing commentary on romance fiction. She resides in Maryland writing many more stories to fill the hands and e-readers of romantic bookaholics. Michelle's One to Love is available.

How Many Are Happy Book-a-holics -- Michelle Monkou

I spent a beautiful and restful two weeks in Barbados a few weeks ago. While I enjoyed the vivid blue beaches, tropical breezes, delicious food, and a rum punch or two, I embraced paradise whole heartedly.

At first, I thought that I would write madly. Rise early, eat, dawdle, and then write until the moon rose. HAH!

From Day 1 through Day 13, I entered a new level of happiness. The two houses where my family stayed had a library. In a snap, I was doing the happy dance.

I read so much that my son asked why was I doing something that I could have done at home. After all, the library was only for decoration. Obviously, he's not a book-a-holic.

One particular day, I encouraged everyone to go to the beach. Then I put on my swimsuit, got munchies and my beverage, and headed for the poolside. I got so entrenched in the story that I almost forgot to take a dip into the pool. And then, I couldn't wait to get out and continue reading.

So many books, so little time.

What are some of your book-a-holic moments?

Happy Summer!

Michelle Monkou

http://michellemonkou.com

If I Had You - March 2012

Popular Romantic Theme Comes To Life -- Michelle Monkou

Romance stories and day dreams go hand in hand. As a romance writer and an avid romance reader, I enjoy a story of opposites meeting and falling hard for each other. In my heart, it's a cause for celebration.

One of the biggest romantic premises is about to happen on April 29, 2011 (BTW, my 21st wedding anniversary) when a "commoner" marries a prince and heir to the throne. The event has taken on the trappings of a celebrity event opened to the world for viewing and commenting via social media networks. No matter how jaded we may feel with our realities, we can't turn a hard heart on the beauty of the romantic journey.


Cinderella kind of started this fantasy, right?

Then we had Hollywood A-list Grace Kelly turn into a beautiful stunning princess. Meanwhile, my fellow romance writers created and continue to write wonderful stories of the everyday-woman marrying the prince, king, or sheik.

This fantasy is beyond just a trend; it's the epitome of the romantic couple.

Our stories do have the implied happy ever after. So I'm purposefully not talking about the burden of the couple's new public status, the baggage of numerous failed royal marriages, and the work needed to make a relationship work. That's called women's fiction. LOL.

As a romantic at heart, I raise a celebratory glass to Kate and William (LOL - I'd written Harry). Cheers!

While we're in the full bloom of all things romantic this week, enjoy my free e-book at http://www.everyonesreading.com/the-millionaires-ultimate-catch/

Michelle Monkou

Romantic Vegas Weddings -- Michelle Monkou

My October release - The Millionaire's Ultimate Catch - is all about a millionaire hero seeking the heart of a professional basketball heroine. She's a tough cookie. He's got his hands full as he works for her attention and ultimately her love.

This past week I saw the fruition of that romantic courtship in Las Vegas, Nevada. Who knew that the end of August and early September was "let's get married in Vegas" time. Yet, with the backdrop of hotel settings like the Venetian or Palazzo Italian-themed hotels, you can understand why the location was chosen.

I also saw the guys who were there for the bachelor parties - pre-alcohol laden which then turned into blitz-out-of-their-minds ugly. I wondered what was the underlying reason to have to get blindly drunk right before the marriage.

The few bridal showers I came across usually consisted of a table of young women giggling, squealing, and toasting the bride, their friendship, and any other handly reason. Many had bridal veils pinned to their hair to highlight the bride-in-waiting. I also raised my glass in honor as their infectious delight carried over to nearby tables.

While walking through the Bellagio Hotel, a bride was making her way up a winding staircase. Everyone stopped and talked in hushed tones. Strangers with their cameras ready formed a semi-circle at the head of the stairs for the bride's entrance. I wondered what they would do with the footage of a stranger's wedding. And yet, I also waited excited and hopeful for the new couple.

So, for all the couples who shared their vows in Vegas -- Congrats! May your lives be filled with love and sweet romantic realities.

Michelle Monkou

The Ultimate Millionaire's Catch

Available October; pre-order now

Living Life To The Fullest List -- Michelle Monkou

I had never heard the term -- bucket list, until the movie starring Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman in 2007. Now I find myself using the term often. For those who don't know, the bucket list is a wish list of things to do before you "kick the bucket" in other words before you die.

We tend to avoid thinking about dying or its inevitability. Yet, I wonder why do we put off doing certain things or expressing our feelings until we have no other options? A wish list to enjoy life should be continuously renewed because the key reason is that you are completing the tasks, sooner than later.

This year I went to Milan. Many friends said--"Oh, I wish that could do that." Believe me, I know there is a financial issue and/or family responsibilities that may slow down taking the leap. But if those are taken care of, what's stopping you from taking such a trip.

The items on the list don't have to be grandiose. A car drive around the picturesque part of your state, region or country may be your choice. Since I live outside of Washington, D.C., there are tons of museums and other historical sites that are often taken for granted by the locals. Last year, I took my daughter to various museums in D.C. The museum docent asked if we were there on a school assignment. There were many school groups. But I told them that we weren't and the docent responded, "Good for you." Again, why not. Spending the day with my daughter talking, even snickering, over some of the museum pieces was a precious moment in my life.

After recently celebrating another birthday, that bucket list is being renamed Living Life to the Fullest List. My next item list is going to Vegas with girlfriends to laugh and play and laugh some more because we are a bunch of characters who teach each other to live to the fullest moment.

Somewhere on my list, I have writing a screenplay; directing a movie; being fluent in two other languages. Think about what you'd like to do - throw out the doubts, the logic, just write five things and then go live life to the fullest.

Michelle Monkou

The Millionaire's Ultimate Catch

Available for pre-order NOW

Release: October 2010

It's All Good -- Michelle Monkou

Let me start of by saying this has been one hellafied year in the life of Michelle Monkou. When I have dreams about life and my glorified ambitions, they usually take place in locations that have the quality of paradise (non-specific, just gosh darn beautiful). The pace is calm and the mood is so inspiring and motivating-- Shrangi-la in the making.

But the reality resembles a piping hot, spicy pot of gumbo that bubbles over a roaring flame. While the cooking heats up, the expectation and hope are that the end results will be freaking fantastic.

Behind me, in the past, I (not personally) had to deal with the responsibility of relocating a writer conference due a natural disaster; my 78 year old mother's dismal post-operative state from back surgery; a book deadline; kids' end of school bustle; and my sister-in-law's battle with breast cancer.

At a self-imposed writer retreat from the world or I'll-go-crazy moment, a black bear came out of the woods and proceeded to rip apart the trash receptacle. He couldn't get in, but that didn't stop him from trying. I watched his tenacity instead of writing--more fun and it required less of me to watch his progress.

A friend suggested that maybe that's my animal totem. I'm not of native American tradition or any religious group that follows animal totem. So I mean no offense to anyone. However, I looked up the meaning of a bear. Just as the bear rests during the winter and awakens during the spring, a person should rest and reflect, achieve a higher consciousness and rejuvenate when the time is right. But then there is time to be assertive and step up to be a leader and fearless in defending her belief.

So looking ahead, I will be attending a fantastic conference with over 2,000 people. My mother is doing well and on the road to recovery. My book deadline, well, now I have another one. My sister-in-law just finished her treatment and is heading back to work as she also heals and recovers.

So instead of thinking - What the bleep is going on with my life!

I'll simply count my blessings. Ya'll have a wonderful day.

Michelle Monkou

The Millionaire's Ultimate Catch

Ready for Pre-order

October 2010

Love Makes The World Go Round--Michelle Monkou

Once again, St. Valentine's day, is almost upon us. A day where we express our love for that special person in our life. We may get or give flowers, candy, and jewelry. Whether it is celebrating friendship between friends or a romantic relationship between a couple, Valentine's day is that symbolic poke to remind us to say I LOVE YOU.

This year I experienced the Mid-Atlantic winter storm with just me and my kids, while my husband was stuck in Florida after the Super Bowl because flights were cancelled and stand by on available flights was near to impossible with the large amount of stranded passengers. The first snow storm brought close to two feet of snow, which took 2 1/2 days to dig from my door to the street. Then the second snow storm hit and dumped another 1 1/2 feet of snow. By the time I got to the street, there was a large hump of snow-turned-ice from the snow plow that shoved the barrier along the width of my driveway. At this point, cupboards were getting bare, the refrigerator shelves were emptying, and I was tired of eating the large quantity of spaghetti, I'd made at the beginning of the first storm. Luckily the nearby Pizza Hut delivered and we were the family standing in the street at the end of the driveway waiting for their driver.

Now, I'm settled down, waiting for that block of ice to melt. My husband is due home tomorrow. My kids and I have bonded. Thank goodness for computer games-LOL. And so Valentine's Day will arrive without much fanfare because I haven't had time to go out and get anything. But you know what? It doesn't matter. I've had the best Valentine moment laughing and joking with my husband over the phone, hours of shoveling snow with my son, watching episodes of Bones and CSI with my daughter, even the cat has been affectionate. So there is no need for expensive greeting cards, flowers, chocolates or jewelry to say how much I love my family.
I'm also reminded that while I may have felt the discomfort of a winter storm, I need not complain given what the people of Haiti have suffered and will have to endure in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake. Many are without home, clothing and other basic necessities. Unfortunately, many are without their loved ones.

This Valentine's Day share that expression of love with a donation to a Haiti Relief Fund. A little demonstration of love for humanity can certainly be a part of the St. Valentine's tradition.

Namaste,

Michelle Monkou

Trail of Kisses - Available NOW

Count Your Blessings--Michelle Monkou

Happy New Year, 2010!

The new year, beginning of the next decade, came in with a blast of cold temperatures and lots of snow for many parts of the U.S. But why shouldn't it come in with fan fare. Life shouldn't be blah and boring, right?

Despite disappointments, sacrfices, even loss, there are so many things about life that call upon our gratitude and appreciation. Family, friends, career and my faith keep me going.

I love my family. They make me laugh. We enjoy each other's company. We are very close and like to do things together like traveling, going to the movies, playing Beatles Rock Band, and even exercising.

I love my friends. They accept me with all my imperfections. We really really laugh a lot together. Our getaway trips are fun and memorable. Each person has a special place in my heart.

I love my career. Yeah, sometimes, I may whine. But talent shouldn't be abused or taken for granted. I learn to appreciate the good, with the not so good. I treasure the opportunities that have been afforded me and the many readers that I meet along the way.

Life is good. I plan to enjoy every minute. I will continue to laugh. I will continue to love.

What are some blessings you'd like to share. A random winner will receive my new February release - Trail of Kisses. All commenters will receive a bookmark, pen, and a one page calendar of Kimani Romances 2010 Hotties. Please have an email contact in your profile information.

Take care,

Michelle Monkou

Monkou wraps up the Ladies of Distinction series with an emotional powerhouse of a story. Each character's heartaches and triumphs are well depicted...This story is a definite keeper. - 4.5 from RT Reviews

Finding The Perfect Setting -- Michelle Monkou

Setting has always been a crucial element with my fantasy of a romantic interlude. As a child, the stories about the heroes and heroines always had a wonderful backdrop--the castle sitting high on a mountain top, the family house as a firm immovable part of large acreage, or the expensive home perched at the shoreline of a fantastic beach.

When I started reading the early romances, the settings more than the back blurb pulled my attention. I was always partial to the Australian outback, the Italian countryside, the ranch set in Montana, Wyoming or Texas. Remember those gothic romances? Loved those creepy manor homes sitting close to that always-needed cliff. Love it.

When I started plotting Trail of Kisses, I gave great thought to my location. After all, the characters were pretty much city dwellers. So I needed to think outside of the box and pulled out a U.S. map. I paid attention to geographic details because the setting does play a role in the story. Maybe the wild landscape underscores the hero's wild ways. Maybe the craggy rock facing is part of the ugly, dangerous backstory of the heroine.

Then I looked at the types of weather extremes for that place. Will I need a snow storm, hurricane winds, a drought? Will this weather bring them together, challenge them individually, almost tear them apart, or bring one to sacrifice a part of them to save the other?

So I took Asia Crawford and Trace Gunthrey to the Colorado Rockies in the spring. Earth's renewal with blossoms and vivid green landscape has a daily battling pushing the cold and snow conditions away. Some days, it's successful and, as we've seen with a late season snow storm, the push can be unsuccessful.

Then I gave the couple a beautiful cabin that looks rustic and natural on the outside, but is beautiful and modern on the inside. And won't you know? The place has been double booked. The heroine decides to be a Good Samaritan and allow the hero to stay, but only out of the goodness of her heart. Because she doesn't want to admit that it could be for the other reason like he can spark a swirl of emotions that makes her want to turn her charitable act into something more . . . sinfully delicious.

Of course, a setting can only do so much. A story still needs a hero willing to step up and display good hero material, along with a heroine who isn't afraid to be strong, romantic, and self-sufficient.

I introduce you to Trail of Kisses, now available for pre-order from Amazon.com, Borders.com or BarnesandNoble.com.

Michelle Monkou

Random Acts of Kindness -- Michelle Monkou

"Whenever I get gloomy with the state of the world, if you look for it, I've got a sneaky feeling you'll find that love actually is all around"

This quote is from one of my favorite movies - Love Actually - that has a star-studded ensemble cast.

This idea of love all around can be translated into our acts of kindess to each other. Coming out of the Lenten season has made me feel reflective and hopeful, despite the bleak headlines about the economy, the war, and other social ills.

If you are so inclined, for a week, perform random acts of kindness. If you perform an act that is not anonymous, feel free to tell the person to share an act of kindness with someone. Basically, pass it on. Comment on your random acts so we can share, celebrate, and be inspired.

On April 7, I will draw two winners to each receive a Sterling Silver - Hope * Dream * Believe Cuff Bangle Bracelet. Acts of kindness do not have to be monetary-based. This is on the honor system because I do believe that bad karma will take care of those who take advantage.

Hope your lives are overflowing with lots of Blessings and love.

Michelle Monkou

Romance Stories--Just What The Doctor Ordered

The most common description of a romance novel is the Happy Ever After. The courtship of a couple has a satisfying ending that speaks of a lifetime of romantic bliss. Whether the romantic themes in a novel inspire fantasies of real life experiences or soothe our souls, these stories have a purpose beyond the obvious.

Recently there was a CNN article titled: Unhappily Ever After: Why Bad Marriages Hurt Women's Health. The premise is that the stress of a bad marriage causes physical symptoms in women that lead to overweight in the abdomen, rise in the blood sugar, and high blood pressure. As women, we focus on the relationship and suffer deeply when it's not working.

The CNN article isn't advocating that more couples should divorce. Instead it shows that, if a relationship is hazardous (physically or mentally), then there will be physical consequences that are more likely present in the woman, than in the man.

Here's my take, as a non-medical or non-psychiatric, romance author. While exercise and counseling are advised and I wholeheartedly agree with such a remedy, I would also offer the average romance novel as a supplement.

The romance novel is like a power-packed, multi-vitamin. A woman would read a story that suggests ways to appreciate her mate and how she should be respected and not be taken for granted. She would read about sensitive heroines who trust their mates with their secrets, who aren't afraid to say what's on their minds, who share what they want in life, in bed, or in their hearts.

A woman could see a heroine who mirrors who she is or at the very least, some part of her. Maybe that heroine is who she wants to become. Immersing herself into the story, the woman can learn solutions to challenges that will test any union. She can seek that mentor, best friend, supportive extended family that provides a sounding board or good counsel.

But on the most basic level, a romance novel allows for a few hours to escape and enjoy a story that makes her sigh with satisfaction. What better way to de-stress.

Share your thoughts on the role of romance novels. A lucky winner will receive my March release - Only In Paradise. Read an excerpt on my blog.

Michelle Monkou

Looking For A Random Winner -- Michelle Monkou

And the winner of the $25 Macy's Gift Card is....Raven99. Thank you everyone for participating. Until next time. -- Michelle

I was having a conversation with a few of my writer friends today about recently viewed movies that drew me in.

One such movie is Twilight. I'm 42 years old and consider myself far away from my teen crushes and fantasies. Yet, despite my brother's thumbs down on the movie, I came away (with my 14 yr old daughter) with a smile on my face and a warm coziness in my heart. I'm now reading the book.

My reaction motivated to think about why I was moved so much. When I think about what other movies caused similar reactions, I can name a few: Dirty Dancing, Bend It Like Beckham, Across The Universe. There has to be more than a simple declaration that they are romance stories for young people that make them addictive.

I think there are several themes/fantasies that capture our imagination -- it's the awkwardness of not fitting in, struggling for independence, dealing with the first blush of romantic feelings, and heroes that will risk everything to be with that person who the world (but not the viewers) thinks is unsuitable.

Think about what are a few fantasies in young adult or adult stories that strike the right chord in your heart. What makes you feel cozy and warm?

By tomorrow evening (PST), I'll pick from the comments one person to receive $25 Macy's Gift Card for you to enjoy this Holiday season.

Michelle Monkou

P.S. BTW, here's my March cover. I love it!

Barbados, Here I Come -- Michelle Monkou

At the end of June, I'll be hopping on a plane to head to the Caribbean. And I am an island girl at heart. This year, the destination is Barbados. It'll be my third time on this island. My writing career goal is to make Barbados, a second home.

For a glorious week, my family, my brother and his family, including our mother will hang out, connect with family friends, and hopefully make more friends. I can't wait.

I do have some sizzling romances set in the Caribbean. But I've used fictitious islands.Now that I'll be there as tourist and hanging with the locals, I'll be sure to make Barbados one of my settings. Of course, for tax purposes, this will be business and pleasure LOL.

As the excitement builds, I have to make sure my work is in order before I leave. Must have my pet care in place for the cat. And for the most important thing, I need to have clothes and beachwear. Since we're coming out of the winter months, I do have the same spring and summer clothes from last year and the year before. I won't go further back because I'm not sure those clothes still fit :-)

But I sense a day of shopping ahead. My daughter will be close to me, since she relishes any opportunity for money to be spent on her. But we must get our shorts, tank tops, fun skirts, and swimsuits. With the sun and my daughter's vitiligo, sunscreen is important and critical.

Speaking of swimsuit, I know it won't be a bikini. The last time I wore a bikini I was probably 9 years old and when I came out of the pool the top was sitting above my flat chest. And everyone laughed. Scarred for life, I never put on another one. Now that I'm pleasantly thick, there's no freaking way that I'm doing that for another laugh fest.

But I've jumped on the treadmill. I'm walking and walking and walking. Last night I actually put the slice of pizza that I was going to sample back in the box. I ate my bran cereal instead and imagined the cheese and tomato sauce. But with Barbados on the horizon and RWA's San Francisco conference just around the corner, I have incentive.

Twenty-three days and counting. Barbados, here I come!

Michelle Monkou