Finding Motivation Again

 

It's funny the way life works. Just when you are catching your stride and making great progress on a project, life intervenes and throws you off track. Sometimes it's family or friend related, other times it's issues at the day job, but it all has the same effect of shutting down your creativity in favor of worry and stress.

So what do we do but put our project away and work on the real life problems. Meanwhile, our creativity fizzles and our project becomes a silly dream.

When things quiet down, as things always do in life, we look back on our project and can't seem to muster up the energy to continue. We see what we've accomplished so far on it, but where to begin again?

No one is there to motivate you, as you were there to motivate others. No, this must be done on your own. The inner strength you carry to fight for others must now be turned inward to fight for your creativity and project. It's time to regain some perspective and conquer our own doubts.

The reason this project idea came to you, is that you possess the ability to create something extraordinary. Though there are millions of romance books out there, I know that no one will ever write quite the same as I do. The characters are my perspective and so even when the theme is familiar, the writing is uniquely mine. Too often in life we question why we're the right person to do a project when there are so many others who might be better.

I'll tell you that you are unique. Your talents, abilities, mindset, and creativity are all the building blocks of a special person who is meant for success. Yes, you will be successful.

Shut down the negativity in your mind. It has no place in your life.

You'd bear down and fight for another, well it's time to put that strength of fortitude to work for yourself. Only you can complete your project. Recently, there was a story of a female astronaut that was told she'd never get to space. She was turned down time and again. Well, decades later she holds the record for the longest time in space. She didn't give up and fought on despite the naysayers who told her she wouldn't make it.

So what if your project is turned down. Offer it to someone else. Revise and resubmit. If you believe you are meant to be a writer, inventor, manager, or anything else then you must journey on.

At times that journey will feel very lonely, and it will seem as if there is no one to help you. Just remember, you're worth the time and work. Reach out or read inspirational quotes that can keep you going. One of the reason I enjoy Twitter is that I follow writers, but I also follow people who tweet out inspirational lines.

So what are we waiting for?

Are you ready?

Yes, so am I when it comes to the project I've been working on. Let's take the steps together, shall we, because I've been where you are.

You must ignore the negative thoughts in your head including those people that tell you something can't be done. Of course, it hasn't been done yet, you hadn't arrived. But you're here now and you can accomplish great things.

You have arrived, and as fate has given you the talent, it's time for you to succeed where others have failed.

I believe in you. Believe in yourself.

Success is waiting for you.

Take your destiny in hand and start/finish that project. Now, I have some writing to do. How about you?

Mary

 

Every #Writer needs some adventure: Good Friends and Golf

I never expected to have such an amazing time at an employer sponsored golf tournament, but with right friends/co-workers 'fun' becomes the word of the day.

So, let me say first off that I've never golfed in my life. In preparation, I've been watching golf on tv in an effort to get a clue, thinking I might as well learn from the best. Funny enough, those 'best' turned out to be the friends on the greens with me that day.

 

So out to the golf course we go and the adventure begins. I did borrow a friend's clubs for this adventure as I didn't want to buy clubs for something that might be a one-time gig.

Anyway, I've gotta say, I hardly expected to hit the ball very much, but then when you get such positive feedback and insight there's no accomplishment out of your grasp. The more holes we played, the little better I got at hitting the ball.

Of course, my first ever shot I hit straight into the water. Note to other; bring lots of balls when you go as they like to run away. Funny part is that even my horrible shots I garnered encouragement on.

At one point on the course I even had friends who were golfing behind us, cheer me on. Lol. The thing about golf is that you have to have fun. The right friends to play with make it all the more possible to enjoy a game that can really make you feel down right klutzy at times.

By the 18^th hole, I actually was the only one on who stayed on the grass. I'm proud of that. Oh, and I showed how to hit the ball out of the sand trap, which I did beautifully with a well learned butt wiggle. Thank you, pro-golfer Phil Mickelson.

Anyway, the laughter we shared, the camaraderie, and memories are something I'll cherish all my life. I couldn't have asked for better golf partners or friends to share the game with. Would I golf again? I have to say yes. I never considered I'd be the type to like golf but yes, its lots of fun and I want to go again.

Thank you to my friends, co-workers, and golf buddies for a great outing. You'll never know how special it was to me, because even a writer like myself can't fully explain the feelings of joy that stayed with me throughout the day. 

So what are some tips I can give you if you've never golfed but want to try?

1)      Get three good friends that know golf but don't take it too seriously.

A)    This keeps the atmosphere relaxed and doesn't put pressure on you.

2)      Clubs:

A)    Rent clubs or borrow a friend's

a)      Don't worry if you don't know what club to use. That's what your friends' expertise is for.

3)      Snacks/Water:

A)    Bring light snacks like beef jerky and plenty of water bottles. It's easy to dehydrate and not notice.

4)      Try the driving range first.

A)    A driving range is a great place to practice swinging and hitting the ball. It isn't as easy is it seems on tv. J

5)      Remember to have fun.

A)    It's really a bonding activity when you're out there so don't be too hard on yourself if you don't get a good score.

Finally, learn the etiquette rules of the golf course so as not to offend any other players or management. These places are meticulously taken care of so don't leave trash, and be respectful of the wildlife.

I hope I've inspired someone to try golfing. I'll admit I'd go again, and I never saw myself as the type to like golf. But yes, I've had a taste and want more. Lol.

It's good for writers to experience new things. It broaden our perspectives and gives meaning to the word life. Any adventures you're going to try?

 

Mary

 

I'm on the Couch. Join Me. #Erotic #Romance #Readers

I'm on the couch today and I've got a giveaway.

Hmm, maybe I need to work on my phrasing. Anyway, I'm visiting over at Abbie Roads blog and I'm her Author on the Couch interviewee.

We're talking deep thoughts and surprising secrets, so join me and enter a chance to win a PDF copy of  my paranormal fantasy, erotic romance, SINDRIEL.

The book is the sequel to Love's Demon Ways, but trust me that it is also a stand-alone novel.

He wouldn't have it any other way.

Click on the link above and I'll meet you at Abbie's!

Mary

In September, How do you celebrate Autumn?

There is a lot to love about this month including the fact that the first day of Fall comes on September 22^nd.

 I love the change in weather when a cool breeze sweeps over you and the trees shiver, dropping their leaves as they prepare to hibernate. That's how I see the changeover anyway.

Then there are those trees whose leaves turn yellow, red, and gold for the season. It's all so beautiful. It's the perfect month for changes, in my opinion. Do you want to paint a room? Do it. Have a closet to clean? Yes, now's the time.

Many would tell me to finish writing, at least one of, my books. I smile. I do intend to do just that. I'm thinking Clandestine Engagements. The story is so close to being finished, if only the characters would cooperate. We'll see what happens. We all know how characters can be. Sometimes, they just want things to keep going on and on, they are having so much fun.

How do you celebrate Fall? Do you decorate, change up your furniture, clean out the garden or a closet? Do you have a trip you are ready to take? What does the month of September hold for you?

We'll talk books and anticipated reads another day. For now, go out and treat yourself to something a little different. Change something up. Have some fun and remember to….

 Sexify your life,

Mary

The Intimacy of a Lover's Arms #writerslife #Romance

Just to be held can be far more intimate than sex. Why? Because the ability to provide a person with a place to take a breath and be safe is extraordinarily precious.

How many times have you ever had your lover's arms around you, while the two of you stood together, just holding one another? You ask him to squeeze you and he does, providing for your needs without question.

That type of loving moment is what makes touch so intimate. For a quiet moment while the two of you hold one another, the drama and doubts of the world fade away and all becomes manageable again. It's a powerful gift to give another person.

As females we'll curl up next to a man on the couch, snuggling in until he puts his arm around us. There's no need for us to speak. He knows our affectionate nature and it's only him who provides for us.

Men aren't as easy to read when they need to be held. They're stoic about such needs at times. Luckily, sometimes just our company is enough to thaw their exterior.

A woman must never take for granted what her company and touch mean to her man. It's all about the intimacy of touch.

To be held safely in the arms of another, while the storm of life swirls around, is a precious moment. It may be for one minute or one hour, but what matters is the touch and sense of security those loving arms bring.

Happy reading,

Mary Corrales

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Mary Corrales is a multi-published erotic romance author who brings to life the most wicked of characters to fall in love. She's most active on twitter and loves to hear from readers.

Dealing with Scam Debt Collection Calls

I recently received a call from a company that claimed I owned a debt. Let me tell you all that I live an exceptionally simple life; owe nothing, and never have. The caller left a message, used my full name, and claimed to this debt was tied to my social security number.

SCARY, right?

Not so fast. Why have I never received "written notification" of this supposed debt? Because there isn't one!

They said they had my social security number…*cue scary music* Well, liars lie and debt collectors are consummate liars who use fear and ignorance to intimidate average Americans.

So, after the lump in my throat calmed down, and I was able to think rationally, what did I need to consider? Here are my tips: Please remember that these are tips for those who KNOW they don't owe debts of any kind.

1)      Don't be intimidated and answer questions. If you should happened to answer the phone and not just let these calls go to voicemail, never confirm your identity or SSN to anyone, even if they claim to already have your information. 

A)    But they had my name? The internet makes name and phone number info. easy to find and easier to buy. Don't be fooled. I can find a wealth of information on anyone in today's digital age. Doesn't mean, I'm a long lost relative if I know everything about you.

B)    It's a legitimate company, though. Doesn't matter. If you know you owe no one, don't be fooled into paying. These companies survive on bulk collections. For every so many people they contact, innocents get caught up in the frenzy and it's a free payday for the company.

2)      Know your rights.

A)    What are the debt collection laws in your state? Find out, and find out your rights. Debts have a time limit, and once it expires a company has no legal right to collect.

B)     Also, research where you can enter a complaint with the Federal Government if the calls become harassing in nature. Keep and immediately submit those calls to your state's Attorney General if the caller threatens violence or harm to you.

C)    If you speak to the debt collection agency, ask that they submit the debt to you in writing. (Again, do not give or confirm you mailing address. They should already have it if they are legitimate.) The who, what, when, where, why, and how information of the debt should all be sent to you in written form.

3)      BLOCK. I immediately block these calls from my phone as I have no business with these companies, therefore I do not allow them the honor of my attention.

It's isn't always easy to shoo away the fear when you receive a call like this. The first and foremost thing to do is to "breathe before you react." Next, face your fears, check your finances and determine if you owe any debt, anywhere. When you've done this, breathe again, and decide how you'll proceed. Will you ignore them and block their calls? Will you speak with them? When you've decided, then know your rights.

There are plenty of articles on unscrupulous debt collection agencies capturing innocent Americans in debts that aren't real. Regular people pay money to stop the calls on debts that either aren't theirs or have expired. Don't let anyone victimize you and take your money.

Lastly, don't play mind games with these companies. They have the time and energy to make you miserable, so if you don't owe a debt, it's best not to engage with them on any level.

Kind Regards,

Mary

A beautiful Night for Christmas

MERRY CHRISTMAS

What a beautiful night for Christmas.

There will be a full moon on the night of Christmas day, and I encourage everyone to grab a warm drink and take a stroll outside to see its beauty. Maybe you have a fire pit that you can relax by or perhaps just sit in a comfortable chair.

Why?

Simple. After all the chaos for family, food and unwrapping of presents, it's good to take a quiet moment and reflect on the true spirit of the season. The miracle of the heavens above are mysterious and awe inspiring, as is the miracle of one child's birth leading to mankind's salvation.

I like quiet moments. It's easy to get lost in the busyness of things. Phones, emails, internet…and too easily life passes us by.

Another year is coming to a close, and while I have one more book release (Bet Your Sweet Aces) on the 29^th, the end of 2015 is on the exit ramp. For now, I think I'll just grab a hot chocolate and some gingersnap cookies, and stargaze.   

There's time enough for real life tomorrow.

Merry Christmas dear readers. May all life's blessing be yours this season.

Mary

Why do Vampires Ensnare our Imagination?

The darkness of the night hides a predator unlike any other. Sensual, powerful, this creature is a blood-hunter, a seducer….a vampire.

Vampires capture the imagination on a visceral level. Almost all cultures from around the world have their own legends about blood drinking monsters. Is it the fear of death which brings these legends to life? Perhaps, it's the human need to understand bad luck and illness.  

It's interesting that although the vampire is sometimes portrayed in books and movies as an unholy beast, there is also an underlay of humanity that connects us to this creature.

Is that connection the desire to live for eternity?

An intriguing idea to have an extended lifespan, while staying forever at a perfect age. Of course, the tradeoff is the terrible bloodlust that overcomes the mind. Eternity is an exciting concept until you think of the lost loved ones, and always being out of step with humanity. To haunt the streets at night, alone…always separate.  

Why does the vampire seduce its victim?

The need for love is very human. A vampire is often portrayed as debonair or sensual. His/her touch is often cold, but there is desire reflective in their gaze. 

Perhaps vampires ensnare our imagination because their blood-hunger represents our insatiable need for love; their ability to seduce is our secret hope to remain desirable; and their ability to live forever is our way of ensuring that eternity does exist.

Do vampires ensnare your imagination? What is it about those hauntingly beautiful creatures of the night that have you coming back for more?

Mary

Buy Links:

Cobblestone Press: http://www.cobblestone-press.com/catalog/books/tastingcamilla.htm

All Romance Ebooks: https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-tastingcamilla-1897356-349.html

Bookstrand: http://www.bookstrand.com/tasting-camilla-0

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Tasting-Camilla-Vampiric-Indulgence-Book-ebook/dp/B015VXE0O2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1443495539&sr=8-1&keywords=Tasting+Camilla+by+mary+corrales

May brings Changes in my Publishing Life

Hello lovers of sexy stories,

There are changes afoot in the month of May. First off, my publisher of six year, Breathless Press, has officially closed it's doors today. Sad new for all of us authors and readers who so enjoyed the great erotic romance they provided.

Publishing can be a very fluid industry, so for BP to have survived six years is a good run and I know they'd have continued if it has been economically feasible to do so. I will miss BP, and the great people I was privileged to work with. Thank you for a great six years.

What does this mean for me as one of their authors, and the three books I have with them?

First off, they promptly returned all my book rights to me, no fuss. Excellent news. Therefore, I've chose to move forward in the following manner.

I'm currently combining and rewriting, Dangerous Moves and Clandestine Eyes into a single novella. I'm hoping to find a new publisher once I've completed the story which is tentatively titled, Clandestine Engagements. Your favorite hero (Rob) and heroine (Coreen) will be as sexually titillating as always, but with a beta couple sure to steal your heart.

My choices moving forward with Tasting Camilla are somewhat different. I intend to search for a new publisher to republish the story but will not be making any substantial changes. The only difference readers may notice are a cover change and a few edits. There are few small presses that do republishing, so wish me luck that they see the great story all you readers have enjoyed for so long.

It's a lot to take in, believe me I've been living it, but I have great hope going forward. I'm writing daily on Clandestine Engagements and the story is really going to be amazing. For those who read Dangerous Moves and Clandestine Eyes, you'll get character depth in this new story along with plenty of suspense and action.

That's all for now. I've still got two books active out there. Love's Demon Ways and Dhampir Passions, are paranormal erotic romances with plenty of sexy action to keep you entertained.

I'll keep you updated on my progress as I have news.

Happy reading folks.
Mary

Mary Corrales is a multi-published erotic romance author who loves to write stories in several genres.

From Romance Writer to Published Author, What's Your Holy Grail?

When I first became a writer, all I wanted to do was be published. Of course, that many years back, the only publishers were of the New York variety. To get in with one of those major publishers was the ultimate goal if you were a writer. Sadly, you usually needed to have an agent before any of those big publishers would think to deal with you.

Times have changed with the rise of small presses and e-publishing. These smaller publishing houses have opened up the door to many first time authors and brought new and exciting voices to the romance reading community.

With these authors has come an enthusiasm for unconventional romance genres such as steam-punk, shifters and dystopian. Then there is the rise of the paranormal genre where we've fallen in love with demons, not to mention sexy angels that we never knew could be so naughty. 

Lastly, we've seen the securing of a place in book publishing history for the indie publisher. Thanks to modern technology, we all have the opportunity to publish our book and see it distributed around the world. These one ridiculed "self-publishers" are now on the cutting edge of new genres and as their rise to legitimacy gives readers a glimpse at their own possible futures as writers, if they wish to embark on the journey.

The key to a successful book has always been a good story, wonderful characters, and top-notch editing. I mention editing because nothing turns a reader off faster than misspellings, typo, and bad grammar.

This is where the big publishers and smaller presses can stay in business; by maintaining great editors that ensure high standards that don't leave room for sloppy, mass-generated books.

So is a writer's dream still to just be published? Writer's, is there one publishing house that you'd really like to have a book with? What's your Holy Grail of publishing?

Perhaps your dream is like mine…to hit that NYT Bestseller list, someday.

Write on!

NOTICE: Guest Author, Paty Jager, will be here on Thursday, November 8^th and she's bringing a Giveaway for one lucky commenter. Don't miss her post.

Reflections on September 11th and Forward

We all have our own personal memories of September 11^th. What strikes me most this day is how in 2001, I thought it would be just another day. It's said that every generation has a war to fight. I didn't get the war of my generation until that September 11^th 2001.

 These aren't my reflections of a time when I and my country were at our weakest. No, for me this is a defining day of strength. This is a day when we showed the world that though we may bleed, we are indeed an immortal force.

That horrible September 11^th an enemy rose up unlike any other we'd ever faced. Their motivation and fanatic hatred made them difficult to battle as they rely on cowardly weapons like IEDs. The enemy's insidious nature means that they may never stop trying to kill us. If so, then I would say to them that they picked the wrong country to fuck with.

I know long wars are unpopular and the public get weary of the stress. Think though, of all those men and women who step into harm's way without regret, and whose version of stress is the possibility of dying that day. Yes, we want our soldiers to come home, but it's weak of us not to support them in their mission. This war was brought to our soil, laid at our feet as Americans. Those brave soldiers who stand up to defend us should not be told their blood, sweat and tears were in vain and to just come home. If they have the strength to stick it out, then shouldn't we.

This war against terrorists is a battle of perseverance. On the home-front, I can tell you it takes more strength than one thinks they can bear to bid goodbye to your loved one and let them go to a warzone. It is a test of endurance in its own right.

That said, I would never dishonor a single soldier living or deceased, and say they sacrificed for a lost cause. Families wait at home worried and afraid, but do not speak ill of the mission, for the mission is and will always be, to protect the United States of America…both at home and abroad.

I would like to give great thanks to the brave men and women of the military forces who stand up for us, and willingly sacrifice their lives for ours. We own you a debt of gratitude that can never be repaid. In the entire world, the United States is the only country that will always hear the cries of those in need of protection and help, and respond. Why? Because we are a country built on the principles of freedom, justice and mercy.

I bear an emotional scar from that September 11^th, but I have not been broken. I will never be broken for no one will break those of us who call themselves Americans. We are a brotherhood beyond politics. We are a country of patriots, whose blood runs hot and whose weapons are always at the ready to defend.

God bless the United States of America!

Mary Corrales

If you'd like to give your support, here are some wonderful organizations that support the Armed Forces of the United States. Please consider donating to those deserving of our consideration for all they do.

Wounded Warrior Project: https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org/Default.aspx?tsid=66&campaignSource=CDRO&source=B100127

PTSD Foundation of America http://ptsdusa.net/the-statistics/

USO: http://www.uso.org/

Fallen Patriot Fund: http://fallenpatriotfund.org/

Gary Sinise Foundation:  http://www.garysinisefoundation.org/

Pat Tillman Foundation: http://www.pattillmanfoundation.org/

September Never Looked So Good!

What is everyone looking forward to in September? I'm looking at my calendar and am amazed at how it's filling up. A lot of personal business, but also some great blog visits. Here's a quick breakdown so far.

·         September 7^th – Ivy Bateman is here on my blog with her new release, The Fifth Story. This is a new release that you don't want to miss!

·         September 8^th – I'm guest blogging at Sophie Sansregret's blog. You know I'm bound to cause some mischief, so come on by.

·         September 23^rd – I'm at Tabby Nocturnal Nights. I'm loving guest blogging here on every 23^rd of the month.  

I'm hoping to get some significant work done on one of my WIPs. This plan is mostly because I will be working the "day job" more in the coming months, and won't have as much free time to spend writing. It's unfortunate, but that's just a fact of the writing life, so I don't fuss about it.

There are three more significant days to mark on your calendar or simply take note of.

1)      September 3^rd – Labor Day. The celebration of the American worker, and what they've contributed to the United States of America and its prosperity.

2)      September 11^th – Patriot Day is how it's marked on my calendar. For most of us it is simply September 11^th. Regardless of what name it goes by, we all know the day.   

3)      September 22^nd – First day of Fall. The autumnal equinox. The day when the length of day and night are equal.

Here is wishing everyone a wonderful September. Personally, I'm hoping that these last four months of the year are great ones for me and all of you. If life starts to press down on you, just remember the words that I sometimes like to use for those rough days: "This too shall pass."

Does anyone have exciting or good news to share that they are looking forward to in September? A new book release (yours or someone else), or trip to somewhere exciting, a conference you'll be attending.

Mary

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