Welcome Guest Blogger Cait London!
VIBES
So I was talking to Wilson this morning about my dining experience with two psychics. Wilson was his usual stoic self, but then large pumpkins don’t often have a lot to say.
I’ve become somewhat attached to Wilson, named after Tom Hank’s Wilson. My Wilson is not pretty, the usual dull tan of a “cowfield” pumpkin. I bought him last October; I knew his kind made great pies, especially when mixed with molasses. But writing heavily, I didn’t have time to deal with Wilson and he remained in the cool basement until late February. It was time to visit my daughter and family and help with their newborn. (Yes, I’m a grandmother.) And that is how Wilson became my traveling companion and quite the conversationalist. As I drove through snow and ice on my way to Lexington, KY, this from Branson, MO, Wilson sat happily in my large bread bowl. Again, I was too busy to deal with Wilson, and he came home with me.
This morning, he sat in his bread bowl on the couch (I hadn’t unpacked yet), and while the conversation was silent, I’m certain he understands about psychic vibes.
There I was, sitting between two psychics after lunch. One gave me a tarot reading, while the other conveyed her “spirit guides” conversation to me. Both readings were possible, sometimes true, and equally hair-raising.
In preparation of writing my romantic suspense Aisling Psychic Triplets trilogy, I’d previously interviewed psychics and understood something of their personalities and experiences. Generally, there’s some trauma in their pasts, just as with my triplets—Claire, Tempest, and Leona.
As I sat between these two psychics, tarot cards and lunch leavings on the table, I felt their vibes mixing around me. I came to wonder if the readings were actually mine. Did I have psychic ability? Okay, reportedly my family has touches of the abilities and sometimes do connect with each other, though miles apart.
With three daughters, I understand the family dynamics of the Aislings, and how the familial position affects their personalities. My middle daughter is a really good character study and Tempest in A Stranger’s Touch was created from her personality. Likewise Claire, the youngest in At the Edge, derived from my youngest, and Leona, the fighter, the most fierce and powerful emerged from my eldest daughter’s traits. (Leona in For Her Eyes Only is a 10/08 release.)
Explaining psychic vibes can get a little chancy, because the whole field is a bog of uncertainties and nonrealities. I’m certain that when psychics of any kind are near each other, their vibes mix, much the same as my triplets’ emotions and thoughts mixed, when in close proximity. That is why the Aislings, contemporary women descended from a Celtic seer and a Viking chieftain, must live a distance from each other. No way would you to romance a hunk, such as Marcus Greystone with your sisters and mother understanding what’s going on. Which is why Tempest Storm, the middle-born, and heroine of the 2nd book in the trilogy, stays away from water, a universal transport for psychic sensations/thoughts, when in Marcus’s arms.
Wilson, sitting in his bowl with the Hawaiian leis I’d placed around him (after all, he’d been through several states, but never Hawaii), understands Marcus perfectly, probably a male-to-male thingie. After a one-night stand, Marcus isn’t happy with the woman who left his bed, without saying good-bye. He wants a rematch with Tempest, this time without her protective gloves, and he also wants her psychometry ability to solve a cold-case murder. Tempest is psychic-hand endowed, able to feel the history of an object, and the person who held it. To save her family, she’s after an ancient brooch, which is in Marcus’s firm grip and she’ll do anything to get it.
A Stranger’s Touch is set on the shores of Lake Michigan. Wilson’s vibes seemed to shudder when I told him that, but then pumpkins float, so he’d be safe.
Wilson is safe … for now. He understands how very different each book in the triplets’ trilogy is, how very individual the characters are, and how unique they fit within the story arc of all three books.
I think that all writers have their own individual vibes or use those given off by others as we create our stories. We’re probably sucking vibes from each other right now, so watch out J
Or that’s what I told Wilson.
For more on the triplets’ trilogy, please visit Cait London’s Psychic Triplets.
Note: Don’t forget to register at Love is an Exploding Cigar so you can have a chance to win a copy of my latest romantic suspense with a psychic touch, A Stranger’s Touch!
After my own heart...
Psychics and pumpkins... two of my favorite things! Welcome to Cigars, Cait, and thanks for such an entertaining blog. I haven't tried brainstorming with fruits and vegetables yet, LOL, but it could be worth a shot. The dogs don't do much -- they either go to sleep or wag their tails at everything I say, which is not much help for a writer. The quiet receptiveness of produce could work...
I generally buy into the theory that we're all psychic, though maybe we repress or ignore any particular abilities, because our conscious minds are too occupied with conscious things, or we just don't have faith. But it's the old "we only use part of our brains" argument -- what about if we used the rest of it? Maybe it's better most of us don't *G*
I read tarot, actually, though mostly for myself. Sometimes for friends. I enjoy it, and have worked it into my writing here and there, but largely it's a personal thing. I used to read for others, but stopped. I also like astrology, if it's done well.
Anyway, cool books -- psychic sisters -- I'm just glad that's not the case for me and my two siblings, LOL.
Sam
Behold! Another Pumpkin Lover
I put a lot of me into my books and whatever I'm doing, well some of it, usually ends up in a book. Go out and get yourself a pumpkin, Sam. Much better than dogs, etc. Last night Wilson sat in his bowl, on his stool, watching TV while I did a chat for A STRANGER'S TOUCH. He minds perfectly.
And I'll bet you communicate more with your siblings than you know. If you grow up together, there are common experiences and create small sensation ties in adulthood. If that makes sense. A certain scene can remind you of something that your sibling may remember at the same time.
As for Tarot. I have 2 decks, bought one because I thought it would come easier with it. Did a few hours of special deck hunting at our local New Age store. So many decks, so little time. I really never got as far as I did with runes. I'm still at the reference the book stage, which is further than I got with Tarot. I did have a great tarot reading at lunch the other day. Runes play a huge part in the Psychic Triplets trilogy. I even designed a bracelet that Tempest creates. I'm an artist, so some of the artistic things within the trilogy were easy for me to create, that affinity.
And btw, big BTW, congrats on your Rita nomination! Big Whoop for Sam!
Hey, thanks...
Three days later,and it hasn't gotten old yet, hearing that, LOL.
Please don't wish a psychic connection on me with my sisters, LOL -- I don't think they'd want it either.
Though I do think my mother and I were closely connected that way.
I've never done anything with runes -- I had some once, but they never really spoke to me. Tarot really has been my mainstay. Funny how different things work for different people...
I'm not very artistic, though I did create some cards for a community forged tarot deck put together by an online tarot community about 8 or 9 years ago. I did the "Three of Pelicans" (wands -- I had a Florida picture of three Pelicans floating in the water, and their bills all lined up perfectly -- it was cool) and "Justice" which was computer-generated, and not as interesting. I don't have that deck anymore -- people's cards were all different sizes, some more well done than others, and I think I just didn't care for a lot of it, though I appreciated the chance to come up with my own cards. It was an interesting challenge. I still like having ref books around, though I don't really use layouts or positions, I just deal cards and read intuitively, for the most part, though I do like to use some numerology and elemental dignities.
Sam
Keep Floating, Sam
Hey, you float, your feet above the ground, as long as you want.
I think mothers and daughters have a special connection. However, I disagree with your statement that you are not very artistic. If you created those cards, you are artistic. I tend to think artist-type people are more receptive to do things around them, absorbing more.
Oh, I just discovered something. I am using Dragon Speech, and when I said the word "more" it jumped me back to the left column's, Flyboy.
And you definitely intuitive. In fact we may be on the same wavelength, which might be scary for you. :)
Speaking of being artistic, and Tempest's story, I designed a bracelet with silver detachable runes. I loved the idea, and set about finding my own. No luck. But I did see dose of other styles. Part of the fun of writing this trilogy, was that I got to explore my artistic side. And Claire's story, AT THE EDGE, I used my sewing background and love of colors in the creation of her location, that of designing one-of-a-kind handbags. This got to be really interesting, because Claire was very much into fabrics, colors, designs, which was a great playground for me, as a writer.
I'll be on your wavelength anytime... ;)
I think a lot of folks here end up back at the Flyboy cover... ;)
Oh neat, you sew too? I haven't done as much as I'd like to lately, but like to make quilts, though sewing the tops is my favorite part... I've come to start hiring out the quilting, and yes, love using colors... find every year I am attracted to new colors... this year it's been oranges and pinks so far...
Sam
Pumpkins! I love pumpkins,
Pumpkins! I love pumpkins, and fall...though right now I am wishing spring would hurry up and come. I want warmth!
and I am really looking forward to this book
Ashley
Spring and Midwest Floods
I'm with you. Our Midwest flooding hasn't been fun. I haven't downloaded the flooding pictures I took on a drive--when I could finally get out. Our area wasn't hit as badly as others, but still a lot of water in one day, 6 inches. One MO town had 13. If you go to my blog, you'll see my yard's daffodils and maybe they will remind you of spring. I love daffodils and lily-of-the-valley, which I use in my books, too. This year, with all the rain and cool, the daffodils are doing great. I took a picture of them all slumped over in the rain, too. Poor things.
Hi Cait!
Hi Cait. I love pumpkins. Makes me think of fall. I have always been intrigued by psychics. Your series sounds great.
Another Member of the Pumpkin Club
Hi, Crystal.
I get out from my desk a lot in the fall. Not crazy about the Midwest's heat, but really love the fall. I pack up my cameras and take off. You can see a lot of my photos at my website, http://caitlondon.com
I'm so hoping people enjoy this trilogy. It will only have the 3 books, AT THE EDGE, A STRANGER'S TOUCH, and FOR HER EYES ONLY. This is not an add-on, add-on project, but completes with the last book. Rarely does a trilogy do that, as the writer usually leaves an opening in case the trilogy really hits big, and they can add on.
If you're intrigued by psychics, you should be getting a big dose of it here at Cigar :)
It is a very special trilogy with lots of layers and very different characters using the same storyline/threads, so I'm hoping readers love it.
Pumpkin lovers, unite! :)
You've brought this lurker into the light
Hi Cait! I started reading your books back in the early 90s. The Tallchiefs remain one of my all-time favorite romance families.
Your new series sounds very intriguing. I think the ability to be "psychic" is in many (maybe all) of us but we just don't have the ability to tap into it. There have been times when I've had "feelings", known that something was going to happen or known I should do something. One of my brothers is the same way. Those "feelings" have always been right on the money.
I'm looking forward to reading the new books. The fact that I grew up close to Lake Michigan is an added bonus!
Ahoy, Lurker
Hi, PJ.
I just did a whole post about the Tallchiefs, esp. for you and Dragon zapped it somehow. Gosh, one wrong word and it takes you all over the Internet! If it shows up somewhere else, I apologize, but then I didn't say anything really offensive :)
I'll try again, this time with my fingers.:) Did you know that I submitted the proposal for the original 5 Tallchiefs all at one time? I also sent each dowry item legend, the format for it, the genealogical chart, the logo design at the same time. When the Tallchiefs hit well, just under Nora's MacGregor's I understand, I was asked to add more. The 5 were so perfect as they stood, I didn't know, but did add 3 more, the brothers of the man who killed the Tallchiefs' parents in that shooting. I've thought about adding more, this from many, many requests, esp. those people wanting more of Emily and her Black Knights. I wanted to "age" Emily before writing her. But other requests for the Blaylocks and The Cowboy's twins pop up all the time.
I love Lake Michigan and took a private retreat there at Benton Harbor, overlooking the harbor. Got several books out of that trip. You'll recognize it in A STRANGER'S TOUCH, Tempest's story. Also an earlier book, WITH HER LAST BREATH. Also, WHAT MEMORIES REMAIN. Just loved it. Mm. I need to check out the writers groups up there and see if they need me :)
You should explore your "feelings." I think we ignore them, when we could open to them. Not that I am a psychic by any means. I did research a lot for this trilogy, including interviewing psychics, which got a little spooky when they started talking about solving crimes. At FreshFiction's blog yesterday, I wrote a lot about the resources I used in developing the trilogy.
Glad you wrote, PJ. But you are a lurker, no more. :)
It's a small world
I liked the additional three books you added to Tallchiefs. They were all terrific and it was interesting to meet the family behind the man who killed their parents. I felt it gave the series balance, if that makes sense. I've always wondered about Emily. I'd love to see her story someday.
If you got your ideas while staying in Benton Harbor I can guarantee I'll recognize things. I grew up 10 miles from there and still have a lot of family in the area. I was up there last October and enjoyed a lovely stroll along Silver Beach and the St. Joe Pier.
Adding several books to my "must buy" list.
Tallchiefs
I'm glad you liked the idea of adding the 3 brothers. My editor called the idea, "Genius."
But on the first 5, I guess I shocked Silhouette at the time. I was "nudged" into writing a series and not a clue as to how to do it. So when I laid down all the proposals and dressed the book with a look, the charts, I guess they were shocked. "We've never seen anything like it."
Tempest's Port Salem is fictional, but you'll recognize the tulip, riprap, hills, small tourist town, perhaps even the bistro. All dressed with my own images, of course. There's an artist painting near the harbor, and that would be me, of course. Pick up those other books as they have a lot of Benton and South Harbor, as I walked all over those dunes.
Funny story. At South Harbor, out on the dunes, I took several photos of the lighthouse. I painted it by the way and it's in the Studio of my website, in 2 large canvases. Back to the story, but that day, the wind was fierce and some of my photos came out slanted :)
Bought some bulbs up there, bought some wooden shoes. :)
Hi Cait! It's great to see
Hi Cait! It's great to see you here today!! Your post really resonated with me; my grandmother was born and raised in Wales and throughout my childhood, people said she was a "white" witch. She was always "projecting" good thoughts, and had an uncanny ability to know when people would call or stop by, or when one of her children was in need of her. She read Tarot cards and rune stones, and I remember she spent a lot of time holding people's hands with her eyes closed. She's still alive, and although her memory isn't what it used to be, she's never surprised when I stop by the nursing home to visit her. Her nurse will tell me, "She told me this morning you'd be visiting her today." I have no established visitation schedule; it's actually pretty sporadic, so it always surprises me when she knows.
I have two sisters, and I truly believe I have a psychic connection with one of them. We're Irish twins, born just 10 months apart, and I swear we're attuned to one another's emotions.
I can sometimes freak my family out by predicting who will be on the phone, or when somebody will stop by...actually, I'm always the most surprised since I don't really know, it's more like a passing thought, and then it really happens. It happens less and less these days, but I think my creative energies are being consumed with writing, so maybe I'm not as attuned to my surroundings.
Anyway, your triplets series sounds wonderful, and I can't wait to pick it up!
That's exactly what I mean
"I can sometimes freak my family out by predicting who will be on the phone, or when somebody will stop by...actually, I'm always the most surprised since I don't really know, it's more like a passing thought, and then it really happens."
That kind of stuff happens to me all the time. A couple months ago I was talking with a friend in the doorway of her shop downtown. We witnessed a hit and run (two cars)accident across the street. About 30 minutes later, as I was turning into the Walmart parking lot, a thought flashed into my mind. "The car is here". I pulled into a parking space and my eyes were immediately drawn to a car in the next row that was identical to the one involved in the hit and run. I checked it out and it had a fender dent and paint the color of the car that had been hit. Spooky, huh?
TOPIC
Your books have always provided me with hours of pleasure. I enjoyed your romantic suspense and this new release looks wonderful. What a great combination of psychic ability and suspense. Nothing could be more riveting. Yes, I have experienced psychic or intuition or feelings many times. These occur from time to time and I can almost predict something that happens and it does. Nothing extraordinary I am sure but still a sense of timing and things about to happen.
A Humble Thank-You
Principessa, I thank you. I loved painting before I started writing, but I also love writing so much, so it's nice to know that it's appreciated.
I wanted to mention somewhere, but this trilogy has a story arc, which is a big, big gamble for a writer. My editor, Lucia Macro, really wanted the trilogy, but I had to finish other contracts first, so this trilogy actually took a long time to just begin the writing part. I think I had to do 2 other books before I could start working on this trilogy. But I really, really love those books with a little eerie touch, FLASHBACK and SILENCE THE WHISPERS.
We've been talking about those feelings, but this is actually what I think--and remember that I am untrained, not a clue, just winging it out here. As I've said, I think it can run through families with members who are more open. I think there is an artistic element involved with intuitives. On the flip side, I think that someone who has those dormant gifts, but does not take time to step back from a busy schedule, or to know themselves, may not develop.
I have lots of theories on everything. Just ask :)
Thanks again, principessa for writing about my romantic suspense. They are not forensics, detective, sheriff, blood and guts, but I enjoy the play between the characters and unraveling the stories. In A STRANGER'S TOUCH, it is a cold-case murder, filled with lots of surprises. FOR HER EYES ONLY, Leona's story in Oct 08, it all comes together. Readers have already asked for a prequel, but I think I'll probably move on.
It Runs in Families
Hi, Karen. I think you'll really enjoy this trilogy as it refs the ancient Celtic seer and her Viking chieftain quite a bit and they are in the main storyline. I do think it runs in families, or like PJ mentioned earlier, some people do not "open" to their feelings. My sister and I are definitely connected, but then we talk a lot. Like you, I can predict those of my family who might be on the phone, sometimes.
A psychic laid cards for me for a past life experience and then I asked her to continue with whatever she could see about the rest of my family. She came up with the correct number of women, in birth order, and who was the most powerful. Pretty scary.
I wonder if you opened to your heritage, i.e. wore Celtic jewelry, etc. if that would aid you? BTW, the Celtic circle at my website, http://caitlondon.com/triplets/triplets.html is my own earring. Not to advertise, but then I am looking for prizes, etc. for my contests :), Overstock.com has low prices on some of that with pendants, too.
While I'm at it, I might toss in that Claire's story, AT THE EDGE, features her handbag designs and part of that story idea-nugget for her occupation began with my daughter starting up her own monogrammed handbag/tote/diaper bag business at kentuckychic.com There's a great book on making handbags and I reffed to it a lot for textures, fabrics, styles.
Best of luck with your website and career, Karen.
Thanks, Cait!! Actually, I
Thanks, Cait!! Actually, I think I'm going to like the series a lot! My husband's maternal family (the Sorensen's) come from Norway, while the name Foley (or O'Foghladha) actually means "plunderer," so maybe there are some Viking roots there, as well.
Off to check out Celtic jewelry and handbags (I have a thing for handmade bags!).
BOOKS
I am intrigued with the subject today and how your new book has captured this fascinating and interesting psychic talent. It has always been an interest which appeals to me and when it is portrayed within a novel that is even better. I am doubly rewarded with this story. The setting sounds great for this type of book. Thanks for this glimpse into your new release.
Vikings
Karen, I am in love with Vikings. They are a tough sell these days, so I was able to use my favorite elements in this contemporary romantic suspense, (yes, Avon calls it RS :)) Remember Woodiwiss's Wolf and the Dove?
I have some 1900 volumes of Viking research books. I think I may read more research books than fiction.
If you haven't read Olaf's Saga, do. Great epic poem, bloody, swaggering stuff with lots of lore in it. I would love to visit Norway and actually go to their museums. In my trilogy, the blend of Celtic and Viking was already waiting. You'll see a lot of that lore filtered in, i.e. the intertwined snakes facing each other. I hadn't realized that there were so many different types of Runes. Really interesting exploration of a topic I love, all topics that I love wrapped up in this trilogy.
Hi Cait
Wilson must be the perfect traveling companion since he offers no opinions on your driving and will listen to any music you put on. The whole psychic field is interesting and always makes me wonder what the human mind is capable of.
Wilson
Wilson has been through many states with me, sitting in my bread bowl. When I visit my daughter's families, I cook a lot and make their favorite, Denver Biscuits, recipe at my website. I also include cooking in my books. I've grown attached to Wilson now. He may never make it into the molasses pie mix. (I bake from scratch.)
But I really don't listen to music, unless I'm really tired at the end of a long driving day. This last trip, some 9-11 hours through snow and ice and sleet and rain, I listened to my iPod's podcasts. Love podcasts. I don't have any music on my iPod, but rack up the old Rock and Roll when I get really tired and driving alone.
Some people write with music. I just need pure silence. Interesting, isn't it?
UNIQUE
I enjoyed the introduction to Wilson which was entertaining and totally different. I do know that vibes are out there and sometimes if we are sensitive enough about receiving them we can relate to them. It is interesting to experience this weird phenomenon which others cannot quite grasp. I enjoyed learning more about your books and their characters.
Wow.
That's it. Just wow.
There have been a lot of guest bloggers here and, of course, the lovely ladies who host Exploding Cigars.
But, Cait, you are such an idol of mine. Like PJ said, it all started with the Tallchiefs.
I feel like I've been reading you forever and here you are! And teasing us with your new trilogy to boot!
As far as being psychic, well, my birth name is Rhiannon and, yes, there are white witches in our family tree. Rhyahnon has been a named passed down for 7 generations now in my family.
When I was in my 20s I was visiting Washington DC with my then boyfriend. We were at the National Zoo when I felt something. I asked him the time and said, My gran just passed on.
When we returned to his parents home that evening, his father told me that my father had rang to say my grandmother had passed. My father's call was at the same time I'd said something to my boyfriend.
Another time, my mother and I were in a car together and I said My brother is in trouble. When we got home we found out he was in jail (minor).
But my sight failed me with the birth of my first child. We all, doctor included, were certain I was carrying a girl. I still remember (23 years later) my doctor's voice of confusion when he said "ani, you have a ... boy??"
ani
Generation Names
Hi,Ani.
If you're reading the previous posts, you'll see that the triplets are descended from an Celtic seer, Aisling. Her name is used throughout, so if I hadn't already gotten the idea and written the books, I could have gotten that idea from your post! :)
Okay, now this is where I get into Universal Vibes. Beware. :)
So, some writers and I were talking about universal ideas, that in writing proposals, there may be the same ideas, but it is how the writer approaches those ideas. We talked of ideas flowing over our coffee house table like digital readouts, and that some circle us because we have common experiences, read the same newspapers/TV incidents, etc. We have common experiences which lend themselves to universal takes and sensations that develop at the same time. It was a deep discussion, but one time, I knew an editor would not be happy with me. I sat in my living room chair, the African violets so sweet in front of the window looking to NY's east. I felt something so stark, I knew it was her anger leaping at the moment she would have received my message. Later, I found out that was true. So, like you, there have been incidents like that in my life.
Again, I don't profess to know anything about psychics, other than my research, and my FEELINGS, which would have been a good title for these books. While my psychic triplets (I have 3 daughters, so I understood the birth order, etc.), have those gifts, they each feel differently--and they really don't want them. Imagine being so receptive to all the sensations around you, like Claire, the empath in AT THE EDGE. It would be scary. Or to be like Tempest in A STRANGER'S TOUCH, forced to protect your psychic edges by wearing gloves. Or like Leona, a precognitive, who is really fiercely opposed to being like her psychic mother or grandmother, in FOR HER EYES ONLY, 10/08.
Ethnic background is a big consideration in my writing, if it applies to the piece, and it really does in the triplets' stories.
Universal Consciousness...
This is hooking into Jung, I think, yes? I think it's right -- funny how you will see books around certain themes, ideas all kind of emerge at any given time, and it's partly trend, the market's response, supply and demand, but it's also got to do with how the ideas and creativity are flowing... Have you ever been to the Christian Sciene Mapparium and Hall of Ideas in Boston? The way you describe the ideas flowing like digital text over the table is a lot like standing in the middle of the Hall of Ideas -- they have it set up so quote on issues like truth, etc scramble and then form on the fountain, the walls, the ceiling, the floor -- it's *very* cool. In the Mapparium, where you can stand inside of a geographically correct globe made of glass (correct in 1935), you can stand suspended on a bridge and the best thing is if you just listen, you can hear all the voices around you equally. It's an amazing experience -- if you ever saw the Buffe episode where she could hear people's thoughts, all the voices, or any other situation like that, that's what it's like -- it's really hard to describe, but incredibly cool. (What's not cool is that they only give you 10 minutes in there, and part of it is a dorky "guided" tour video).
I don't know how I got on that, LOL, but it's about all these ideas and voices flowing around, I think...
Sam
Semantics
Hi Cait -welcome to the Cigars. I love your post and am giggling at the image of the great traveling pumpkin *g*
I'm so intrigued by your Triplet trilogy and have to check it out! Any story with an element of psychic, magic or intuition is an instant draw for me. For years (more than I'll admit) I've read Tarot and for awhile did the psychic fair circuit. I'm also a Reiki Master and while I'd love to learn Astrology, I can never get past the rudimentary level because so much is math based. Give me a good picture card over math anyday!
I have to say, I haven't explored the possibility of intuiting from vegetables before, though. I'm intrigued *g* But if crystals, flowers and herbs can do it... why not a pumpkin??!!
Oops. Another Tarot Person
Hey, Tawny. You LoveisanExplodingCigar people are terrific. Many thanks AND congrats to Sam, here, too.
Somewhere at my website, I've posted a photo of my crystals, etc. I keep things around me that I enjoy esthetically for color and shape, even the giant shell with the pink insides on my mantle. As an artist-mentality, I really enjoy the sunlight on crystals of different kinds and I've always loved stones. I mention the CA beach stones in my earthenware pot in Tempest's story, A STRANGER'S TOUCH. Picking up those stones on a CA beach was one of the most peaceful times. You can see some of my CA beach photos at my website. I really should put up more of my photos, but whenever. On my shelf of crystals, shells, candles, sage, etc., I also have some Montana sweetgrass braids, which I used in FOR HER EYES ONLY, 10/08, Leona's story, and the last book.
Once I was burning sweetgrass, just a little for cleansing, etc., whatever, one of the many things I do, including making jams and canning, and my neighbor came into visit. She sniffed a little at the scent as if she recognized it. No way would she have had a sweetgrass experience, so it must have been from something else :)
Amazing how many LoveisanExplodingCigar authors are into tarot and creative things, did you notice?
Energy
Cait, I love your take on the crystals and shells, sweetgrass and candles :-) It sounds like its a major visual inspiration for you. I keep much of the same around, I even have crystals tucked away in the garage (hey, hubby can get grumpy working on a belligerent car) because I love the energy and feel of them.
I envy you that you do the canning and jams. I've tried once or twice, but never mastered the gift :-)
and its cool, isn't it, how like attracts like. We're just one creative bunch here LOL - and we get such amazingly creative guests!!
Creative Guests Give Back to Creative Hosts
Tawny, my Subject says it all. I think crystals and shells and stones are more visual pleasure for me than anything else, appealing to that artistic side. Now don't get the idea that I really can anything and everything, only what I want, but last Christmas I gave my 3 daughter's familys a big mix of jams that should hold them for a long time. Don't think this is difficult either. I made apple butter last year with my slow cooker, which is really easy. Put 'em in a pot, leave the lid a little and wash your jars in the dishwasher.
Again, I only do this when I want to. The great kraut experiment went stinky and so wrong :)
Thank you for having me, Cigars
Hi Cait
I love Wilson. And this is totally off topic, but when my nephew was young, he pulled a potato out of a field while visiting Idaho, and kept it for months. He slept with it. It had a name, too. He loved his spud. Idaho roots run deep, I guess.
Your books sound fascinating. The only psychic ability I have is when my brother and I, after months of silence, will try to call each other at the same time.
Thanks for visiting!
Oh, Jeannie, this had me
Oh, Jeannie, this had me laughing out loud. My younger daughter once formed an intense attachment to a stick (actually, more like twig) that sort of resembled a little person. I think she was around six years old. She carried it everywhere until the day she was climbing into the back seat of the car and dropped it on the driveway, and her sister stepped on it and snapped it in half. I actually miss that little stick-figure!
Too funny, Karen. I guess
Too funny, Karen. I guess this harkens back to the days when kids played with everyday objects, because real toys were rare, and used their imaginations (imagine!) to make them into other things. :)
Idaho Spud
If you only knew how many of those Idaho spud trucks, loaded down, that I've followed, just wishing I could pass them. :)
I drive everywhere in the Northwest. Which is where the triplets' mother lives, on the coast. Water also plays a big part in the universal medium transport thread in this story, which is why the triplets cannot live by it, as they are too easily accessed. They also cannot live close together as they would interfere with each other's thoughts/lives.
That could get chancy in romantic scenes. Imagine your mother or sisters popping in to visit psychically while you're steaming :)
Back to Jeannie's note on spuds. There are many, many different kinds now. When I was growing up, my mother always cut the "eyes" for garden seedlings. Just give me a big Idaho spud, baked with sour cream, butter and chives, and I'm happy :)
Cait--we must be familiar
Cait--we must be familiar with the same general regions, although, being from north Idaho originally, I never got to eat a real Idaho potato until I moved to Denver. We had North Dakota, California and Washington potatoes. Now I live practically next door to the largest potato farm in the nation--it's in Nevada of all places.
I've never read any of your
I've never read any of your books Cait but after reading this discussion I may have to go out and see if I can find them. Altho I don't feel I have any psychic leanings I certainly believe that some people do. Hope Wilson will be around a long time to keep you company. He deserves a reprieve from the pie.
Sympathy for Wilson
I don't know how much longer Wilson can last. But I'll collect his seeds, dry them and store them with my dried seed collection. I grew a couple like Wilson one time, one was 42 lbs. I canned it. That was before I started writing heavily.
I come from a German background and my mother had a huge, spotless pantry filled with all sorts of canned stuff. I do a little bit of different jams now and then, but also did can years ago. I have stories brewing about this on my proposal outliner, but don't know if they will ever come to life.
You know, not all people would enjoy the Wilson story. I'm having fun with it, and apparently this bunch at Cigars is too. People need fun. I just told a friend about Wilson, and I got this big, Hmm. You know, the sound where they question if you're missing a brick or two? :)
Very nice!
Both the pumpkin and your covers! Wilson seems like an excellent companion--a very attractive shape and size! Plus a good listener! (There are days when I might happily consider swapping a kid or two for one of Wilson's buddies ;))
And that's a pretty neat concept--I really enjoy connected stories, and ones about three sibs have a lot of terrific possibilities!
Many Elements in the Triplets
I really have enjoyed the trilogy and painting it with all the elements I love. So many stories to write, so little time :)
PSYCHIC AND BOOKS
Your wonderful novels have always attracted me and now this new release which sounds fascinating. Love the locale for this novel. What a fun and amusing post with Wilson as a companion. Your psychic experience sounds absolutely great.
I love Wilson! That was just
I love Wilson! That was just the cutest punkin, Cait!
I don't think I'm psychic, but I do love to have my cards read, runes read for me, whatever. I'm a skeptic, though. I always want to believe and yet can't quite force myself not to scoff!
M
Wilson Says He Loves You, too.
I love to have readings, too. However, my triplets do not do readings or having anything to do with divination. They're all mental. Have a past-life reading sometime. In one past, I was supposed to be a Mayan rain maker priestess, which is why I love her colors (that's how our preferences are explained, by influences of our past lives.)
Tempest in A STRANGER'S TOUCH is the odd one in the family, because she can actually do well between them all. Her gift is in her hands, psychometry. So as long as she wears gloves, she's safe. And Marcus of course, wants those naked hands on him
Of course he does, woo
Of course he does, woo hoo!
My friend has taken a course in past life regression and I'm going to have her do one with me!
As one of four sisters, I
As one of four sisters, I totally agree about the strong bond and connection that can form, and that close friendship that has developed over years of shared experiences. I really enjoy stories about sisters, and would love to read your book.
A Fourth Sister?
Who knew? Takes you back to a Nora Roberts series in which another sister is discovered from her father's old letters.
I'm very close to my sister, years older than me. When she says she has a feeling...everyone pays attention.
BTW, Gerald at BookRak did a fabulous job on the cover of A STRANGER'S TOUCH on his catalog and posted the review from Huntress, there, too. If you're a writer who wants publicity, Gerald is your man :) If you're a reader, check out his BookRak.com
I read At The Edge and
I read At The Edge and enjoyed it very much. Am looking forward to reading A Stranger's Touch.
Wilson
You can't make him into a pie after all this! Isn't it kind of like having pork chops after you've raised Wilbur? I know, I know, a girl raised in the Midwest should understand farming and all its ironies, but really, I prefer my pork in plastic. At this point, Wilson is part of the family. How would you feel about canned pumpkin?
Thanks so much for a fun topic today. I've always wanted to learn to read Tarot cards and even bought a deck once. I just couldn't figure it out from there. Maybe I should give it another shot. Who knows, maybe I can figure out what ever happened to Waylene. She was our cow and dad swore she went to a good home...
-Tasha
Wilson
I love your traveling buddy and the way you talk to him. Congrats on being a grandmother!! You didn't say weather you enjoyed your trip to KY. I live about 40 miles from Lexington. I love KY.
This trilogy sounds like something I would love to read. Keep up the good work on your books.
Lead Bottom
I go to Lexington quite a bit. This time was to help with a newborn and family, but I also sign at Joseph Beth, B&N, and Waldens there. I'm really interested in any good bookstores near Lex, (which is where Leona's story is set by the way). If you have favorite bookstores, please e-mail me privately as I'll be around there promoting this year. Also, you might want to send me your e-mail so that I might contact you for anything in the area.
As for enjoying this last trip: Not especially, not the travel and with the newborn, I really didn't see the outside world much. :) I drive a lot, but this last time was harry. I started out in sleet and snow and ICE and some of the Interstate ramps weren't that sweet. Trucks washed me off the road as they passed and chat hit the windshield. Ok, so I got to Lex. The weather was summer. Then a week or so later, the return trip: Lex was in ice and snow and really bad around St. Louis (ice), then summer in Branson :)
The time before I took the Paduka southern route and everything was flooded. Not fun driving between two raised fields and water everywhere.
But yes, I love KY. The places I've been, around Lex. When Leona's story comes out, I'll be showing off pictures of the Kentucky River, which actually plays a part in her story. I've driven around Georgetown, etc. The historical buildings are great, and some of that is in Leona's story, too.