Loveahappyending Lifestyle Issue 4 by Loveahappyending Lifestyle magazine

Talking to photographic artist, Roger Stowell

In this edition: 5. Money Matters – living well on a budget

8. Lighting – setting the mood 11. Pretty in Pink – it’s fashion time 18. A Tale of Two Gatsbys – The Film Fatales 20. Film reviews: The Last Passenger & Gravity 22. Roger Stowell – a photographic artist 25. Livin’ La Vida Nashville 27. Apps for Children 32. Australia – a trip of a lifetime 35. The Beach – You Know? With Leonardo?? 37. Let Them Eat Cake – Food, Glorious Food! 44. Janice Horton’s Bookshelf Reviews 55. The winner of the LLm writing competition 58. To Be, Or Not To Be – writing advice 60. Bend So You Won’t Break - Yoga 63. Ski B.C. 68. Try Something New with Janice Ross 70. Nice Twerk If You Can Get It 74. Relationship advice: Bonnie Trachtenberg 76. The Witch of Plum Hollow 85. Meet the team 2

A Warm Welcome to Loveahappyending Lifestyle emagazine with contributors from the UK, US and Canada

Keeping our lives under control … I‘m thrilled to bring you another packed issue from our team of writers. We also welcome author Janice Ross, who is the host of Cultural Cocktails on Blogtalkradio, and her new feature ‘Trying something new is like walking in someone else’s shoes’. As usual, our writers are living life to the full and sharing it with you. But, of course, life‘s path meanders … It is said that marriage, birth, death and moving home are all at the top of the list of life‘s most stressful events. However, when faced with one of these significant turning points we have no option but to somehow keep everything else on an even keel. Having recently moved home, I can certainly vouch for the fact that it does put you under enormous pressure. We moved into an 1830‘s cottage on the edge of the Forest of Dean, in the UK, one week before Christmas. The UK was being battered by constant storms and floods that now, a few months later, seem unbelievable. It had been empty for over a year. We discovered that the central heating boiler had seized up and replacements parts weren't available until midJanuary, so we huddled around portable fan heaters. The kitchen was ripped out ready for the new one to arrive on the 23rd December, but amidst the flooding and constant rain the delivery lorry turned back. Christmas Day for us was a sandwich, then back to sanding and painting. The point is, we survived and we laughed—a lot! When faced with difficulties you have to gain strength from pulling together and making the best of a situation. It's a daily choice between the call of a paint brush, getting out the sewing machine to hem some curtains, or working online. Now the sun is out the garden too, beckons but not to relax, it is saying 'trim me now, or I'll become a jungle'.

So, how do you keep your life under control without sinking, when the demands on your time far exceed the amount of hours you have in a day? My personal top tips are: Have a plan: identify what NEEDS to be done, as opposed to what you'd LIKE to get done. Above all, be realistic. Where you have multiple priorities be clear about the order of importance and check/amend that order on a daily basis. Don't neglect one task to the detriment of another. Focussing on only one thing means something else will slip. Avoiding problems is the key, so don‘t bury your head in the sand. If something goes wrong, tackle it head-on. Factor in relaxation time, or you will end up exhausted and ultimately less productive. Have separate lists for work, special projects and home. Are there any tasks you can delegate? When something involves other people and deadlines, good communication is essential to avoid time-costly misunderstandings.

Most importantly, learn to forgive yourself if you have to let some things slide a little when you are under pressure. I'm a wife, mum, grandmother, author and magazine editor, as well as renovating an old cottage with my husband. Life is full to overflowing, but it‘s fun. I know people who have given up on their dreams because they became swamped. Keeping your life under control isn't a luxury— it's an essential part of surviving, while staying both sane AND happy.

“You can only life your life one day at a time!” Don’t forget to visit our two websites for lots more interesting articles and sign up for our MONTHLY newsletter: www.loveahappyending.com “LLm”& www.loveahappyending.org “The Bookshelf” You can follow us on Twitter @loveahappyend and @LAHEBookshelf

A special thank you to Production Assistants: Anneli Purchase (left) and Stephanie Keyes (right)

Pretty In Pink—It’s Flirty Fashion For Spring! I‘ve been waiting to write this post because I‘ve been waiting for Spring! After so many weeks here in the Northeastern US with below zero temps, I want to see the sun and soak up some Vitamin D. Spring is finally here! So why not kick off the season with a look at fashion for Spring 2014?

Pretty Pastels It‘s no surprise that pastels are in this spring—they always seem to be once we shed those heavy winter maroon sweaters. Sweet frocks adorned in lace will make you shine in hues of lavender, mint, and buttercup. 11

Partner those with a cool satchel and hip, movie-star sunglasses. Plus, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;t forget flowered jewelry and sweet shoes to perk up your outfit. Pretty Pastels by stephanie-keyes featuring miu miu sunglasses

Untold lacy dress $190 - houseoffraser.co.uk

J Mendel long sleeve top $2,925 - net-a-porter.com Mango grey coat $250 - johnlewis.com Badgley Mischka heeled sandals dsw.com The Cambridge Satchel Company satchel bag shopbop.com Aldo necklace aldoshoes.com 12

Miu miu sunglasses mytheresa.com Chiyogami â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Plum Branches in Pink (1/2 sheet) papermojo.com

Boxy Jackets Everything seems to be an Eighties throwback lately and jackets are no different. Check out cool jean jackets and zippered leather to enhance your spring flings.

Boxy Jackets by stephanie-keyes featuring a jean jacket

Urban Renewal jean jacket urbanoutfitters.com

Free People moto jacket freepeople.com

Diane

Von Furstenberg blazer theoutnet.com

Topshop leather jacket topshop.com

Fun & Flirty Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s time to get your bomber jackets back out! Woot! Bombers in everything from leather to satin will compliment trouser slacks. Add patterned sweaters to tea-length skirts. And donâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;t forget fab pastels partnered with button down shirts and fun chucks!

Flirty & Fun by stephanie-keyes featuring Laura Ashley

Filles A Papa shirts top $250 - brownsfashion.com

Burnout tee $25 - newlook.com Topshop black top topshop.com Collar leather jacket $125 - il2l.com Tome tea length skirt modaoperandi.com NYDJ petite wide leg jeans neimanmarcus.com American Living clothing macys.com Converse blue canvas shoes $83 - kurtgeiger.com Wood home decor brewsterwallcoverin g.com Personalized home decor uncommongoods.co m Laura Ashley clock $52 - lauraashley.com

The New Black by stephanie-keyes featuring a a line dress

The New Black Tired of drab blacks and grays? Make way for the new black. Shades of orange will be all the rage this spring as a replacement for the little black dress. Check out this shade in fun flats, belts, bags, and pants.

Diane Von Furstenberg a line dress matchesfashion.com

Orange jacket sheekshat.com

MARC CAIN orange pants $48 - yoox.com

Joshua Sanders orange sneaker modaoperandi.com

Cheap Monday flat $100 - office.co.uk

Victoria Beckham leather purse mytheresa.com

Wrap bracelet delias.com Well there you have it. Some fashion trends for spring. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;d show you more, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s time to pack my winter clothes away. Welcome Spring and happy shopping!

Brought to you by: Stephanie Keyes Website/blog: http://www.stephaniekeyes.com Twitter: @StephanieKeyes FB: Stephanie Keyes

Brought to you by: Film Fatales Website/blog: http://filmfatales.blogspot.com/ Twitter: @Film_Fatales FB: Film Fatales

Next up: for George Clooney and Sandra Bullock fans— Gravity. This is one to see in 3D … 20

Apps for Children – recommended apps for 2014 One of the most common questions I am asked as a teacher is for recommendations on iPad apps suitable for children. Many of the apps out there are branded (as are pretty much all childhood products, from cutlery to suitcases and everything in between) and most of these are games. Some are great fun for children to play, and come up easily when searching the app store, but some of the real educational gems are really well hidden. This article will show you some of the best apps I have found so far. One of the major problems with the app store is that of the hundreds of thousands of apps, only a handful will come up with any search. Some of the very best apps have little chance to hit the top rankings, and for every Flappy Bird making headlines there are hundreds of good educational apps hidden away. Recommendation is the key to providing your child with a range of excellent creative apps. All of the apps mentioned in this article are ones I have used either with my children at home or with a variety of classes aged 7-11 at school, and an increasing number of apps on my list have been introduced to me by colleagues in other schools I have visited, or indeed via a pupil running up to me excitedly and saying ―Sir, I‘ve got the best new app for you!‖ Recommended Apps for 2014

Doodlecast Pro This cool app is an excellent video production program that allows children to combine and narrate videos, photos, and drawings with relative ease. There is a bit of a learning curve but it is regularly updated by the makers and I‘d say it has started to get easier to use in the last six months. Having said that, I have not had a pupil not grasp how to use this app with a little basic tutoring, and once learnt, the controls are logical and easy to understand. This is an imagination app; any manner of story can be created in an hour or so, and each project can be saved, exported, and emailed easily. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ifn7kDHA_cA

Morfo Doing a project on Shakespeare? Grab a portrait of the man online and use Morfo to make him speak to your class. I once had a class listen to a toilet seat for ten minutes using this app. Crazy but true! With Morfo you take any photograph, place eyes, nose, and mouth, and you instantly have a talking face. The app records your voice and maps your words to the mouth of your photograph, allowing you to create and export a video clip. It‘s very amusing to use, and can really liven up an English or History project by creating a speaking, moving video character to present your child‘s words. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZaFAYwSyCBA

Hopscotch Want something that isn‘t a game but will relax your child? They can use this app to make their own games (There is no input needed from an adult. It does all the teaching work for you!) whilst Hopscotch will only entertain a child for a few days, it is a great introduction to programming, something which is making serious inroads into education as the National Curriculum for ICT is modernised. Children can also examine games other children have made directly through the apps home screen, and use these games as ways to grow their own knowledge of how various programming routines work. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HbrDio5Yp2Q https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sXVeYvpUSB8

If you happen to be a teacher, this is a brilliant introduction video to show a very confused class! Whilst it may not be in English, it conveys exactly how to use the app very succinctly - providing a real life lesson on overcoming language barriers via visual prompts. Something that is, at the same time, a bit fun to add in as a unique lesson starter.

Yellofier

This is an amazing introduction to iPad music creation. Prepare for headaches, or buy headphones in advance! The app has been produced by two professional musicians, including the very cool Boris Blank from the Swiss group Yello (hence the name). Although this app is incredibly simple, it manages to include many of the advanced features of professional level music apps, including sample splitting, reverb, delay, and sequencing. The music that a child can make from this app is pretty amazing.

My three-year-old had created a cool little tune using her voice, a simple recording of her favourite song taken via the built in iPad microphone, a little help from Dad, and a bit of a play with the buttons to see what effect they have on the song. She loved doing this. It‘s so much more than just using YouTube to hear her favourite song. The TED talk from the app inventors is a brilliant way of introducing both ‗lecture style‘ talks and the app itself to children. I‘m a big fan of using TED talks to enthuse 29

children, and to encourage them to ask questions about how the world works and how it is likely to progress in their lifetime. http://tedxtalks.ted.com/video/Yellofier-Boris-Blank-HakanLid;search%3Atag%3A%22TEDxHamburg%22

McLaren One of the most beautiful apps I have ever seen. This uses a classic animation style to inspire storytelling and the use of several media styles to introduce useful iPad skills. In this one app children can animate cartoons, structure classical music, and make short films that tell simple stories. The quality of the video files produced is quite amazing. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8j2xGCWcTNY

Tellagami Let a videogame character present your work to the class. This is a great storytelling device at home or in school, and can be used to help reticent public speakers make their initial engagements with an audience. Tellagami uses a skill that many children have already developed. Many video games let the player create their own avatar or character. Tellagami mimics this procedure, allowing a child to create a character with their selection of hair colour, skin tone, clothing choices, and facial features. Once the character is created, a generic background, photograph, or image grabbed from the Internet can be used as a backdrop for the character to stand in front of. The child records their voice, or can type the words that they want the Gami to say, and the resulting product is exported as a video file. A good example of the sort of work that can be produced by this app would be a video of a Gami talking about Roman life while standing in front of a sequence of famous Roman ruins. The result would be an excellent and evocative project that could really grab a classroom and impress any teacher. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4D8qJlL_DEk

These apps are all priced under £5 at the moment. Indeed, at the time of writing McLaren and Hopscotch are free! Choosing good apps for that expensive iPad is very difficult, but head away from the gimmicky Hello Kitty, Disney, and Marvel apps. Instead, choose a selection of apps which engage your children actively, and you‘ll be helping their education to progress, and helping them to build and improve skills while having fun. Technology is great, but use it as a tool to build your child a great life, rather than just something to have fun with, and they will fly.

Mark Hulkus has worked in a teaching environment for many years. He has been a primary school teacher in a Preparatory Department in a 150-yearold boarding school in Wales; he spent several years as a Head of IT. He currently provides a range of IT services in schools, helping them gear up for the recently announced changes in IT requirements. He has three children, is obsessed with the 1980s, and runs a fun design website at www.retroboombox.co.uk. If you have a question for Mark, or want to share a great app you‟ve found, email us at loveahappyending.com@gmail.com

Brought to you by: Kenneth Rosenberg Website/blog: www.kennethrosenberg.com Twitter: @IndieNovelist FB: Kenneth Rosenberg

“Let them eat cake!” Let them eat cake! Queen Marie Antoinette supposedly made this statement on learning that the starving peasants had no bread to eat during one of the famines that occurred in France during the reign of her husband, Louis XVI. Whether or not she actually said this is open to debate but clearly a lover of cake, she considered it a good substitute for bread. * Cakes have long been part of what we eat and the word ‗cake‘ can be traced back to the 13th century. It is a derivation of ‗kaka‘, an old Norse word. The very first cakes were much different from what we know today – resembling coarse bread sweetened with honey, and hard on both sides from being turned over. They were made by fashioning the mixture into round balls and baking on hearthstones or in shallow pans. The cakes were sometimes used in religious ceremonies – the shapes (generally the sun and the moon) symbolising the cyclical nature of life. Medieval European bakers made foods that we later would consider to be cakes. These could last for many months, often baked with fruit and ginger (gingerbreads). The Romans added eggs and butter to basic bread dough to give a consistency that we would recognise as cake-like. 37

Antonin Careme (1784 – 1833) is considered by many to be THE historic chef of the modern cake world. I treasure my copy of Cooking for Kings – The Life of The First Celebrity Chef (by Ian Kelly) which draws on Antonin‘s rich memoirs and his meteoric rise from orphan of the French Revolution to international celebrity, cooking for the likes of Napoleon and George IV. His extravagance with ingredients ensured that his desserts, pastries, and sugar creations became legendary.

The first ‗cakes‘ were baked in Europe in the mid-17th century. When refined white flour became available in the middle of the 19th century, cake makers honed their skills and cakes became more like the delicious concoctions that are now familiar to us. Today we celebrate special occasions – birthdays, christenings, weddings, etc., with cakes. This originates from olden times when sugar, spices, nuts, and dried fruit were expensive and it was an honour to be favoured with a cake.

I love cake and I love making it. It gives me enormous pleasure to fill the kitchen with the heavenly smells of warm baking and I find it very therapeutic. Most of us love a slice of something ‗naughty but nice‘ when we feel like indulging. In honour of the wonderful world of cakes and for all you brilliant bakers out there, here are the recipes for my favourite top three cakes. Please do comment and add your own, I‘m sure you‘ve all got a treasured recipe that granny handed down. 38

Enjoy and happy baking!

Caribbean Fruit Cake

To say that I love this cake would be an understatement. You can make your own version with different fruits and booze (see ‗note‘ below). I always have this cake somewhere in the pantry in an airtight tin, for unexpected guests – just make sure they‘re not driving! I love this cake so much that I chose the recipe for my wedding cake many moons ago. Because of the rum content the cake couldn‘t be iced until a couple of days before (or the icing would have turned yellow). It was three tiers and very grand, complete with a plastic bride and groom on top. The cake was seriously heavy (all that fruit and booze!) and to the horror of all the guests, it teetered over as my newly wedded husband and I walked into the reception. All three tiers headed south and broke up! Needless to say it was an omen – the marriage broke up a few years later!

However, don‘t let that put you off! 39

INGREDIENTS: For the fruit:        

1 3/4 cups whole raw almonds, coarsely chopped (optional) 1 3/4 cups dried or glace cherries, coarsely chopped 1 3/4 cups prunes, coarsely chopped 1 1/4 cups currants 1 1/2 cups large raisins, coarsely chopped 1 1/2 cups dark rum 1 1/2 cups port 3/4 cup candied orange peel, coarsely chopped

For the cake:           

3 cups plain flour 1 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 4 cups of unsalted butter, at room temperature 2 1/4 cups light brown sugar 6 large eggs 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1/2 cup treacle

Method: Fruit: 1. Combine all the fruit in an airtight container and cover with rum and port. Stir occasionally in a cool, dry place for at least a week. Cake: 1. Preheat the oven to 300°F. Grease and line 2 cake tins, 9-by-5-inch and set aside. 2. Sift flour, salt, baking powder, cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg in a large bowl. 3. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then add eggs one at a time, letting each mix in fully before adding the next. Add vanilla. 4. Carefully add flour mixture, pre-soaked fruit and nuts along with any unabsorbed liquid, and treacle, then mix until just combined. Divide mixture evenly between the prepared tins. 5. Bake for approx 2 hours until firm to touch and coming away from the sides of the tin. 6. Cool for 30 minutes in the tins then turn the cakes out onto a rack, and brush each with dark rum.

Note: This cake will keep for a long time and improves with age. If I am keeping it, I periodically add more rum by making small holes with a fork and pouring rum over the surface. Store wrapped in greaseproof paper in an airtight tin, in a cool place. I always have an airtight plastic box of dried fruits soaking in rum or brandy and use for this cake and many others – just top the fruit up when you take some out and pour more booze in. You can use tropical fruits – mango, pineapple, pawpaw – it‘s endless. There are so many varieties of dried fruit in the supermarkets these days. Dried cranberries are delicious too. Make your own version! Bacardi rum or a white rum is good with tropical fruits. Don‘t wait for a special occasion to make this cake – enjoy now!

Matrimonial Cake

My mum used to make this when we were kids and I never realised how easy it was until I got the recipe for myself. I just remember watching magic happen in the saucepan as the dates turned sticky and gooey, and the delicious smell as the cake cooked and the oats toasted. It‘s also known as date slice – if anyone knows why it‘s called ‗Matrimonial Cake‘ please let me know. Ingredients: I am using „cups‟ here as a measure as I find it quick and easy – just a standard teacup is fine. Topping & base: 1 1/2 cups flour, 1 1/2 cups porridge oats 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 cup butter 1 cup sugar Date Filling: 1 lb dates (pitted chopped) 41

rind of 1 orange – grated 1 cup water 4 tablespoons sugar 4 tablespoons orange juice 2 teaspoons lemon juice Method: Date Filling: Add orange rind to dates and cook the dates in the water with orange rind and sugar over a moderate heat until thickened and smooth. Remove from the heat and add orange and lemon juice and mix well. Cool. Topping: Sift the flour, baking powder and salt. Add butter and rub in until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Add sugar and oats, and mix well. Spread half of the mixture in a greased oven dish and press in smoothly. Evenly cover with cooled date mixture then cover with the remaining crumb mix. Bake for 30 – 35 minutes in a medium heat oven (180C/350F/Gas 4) until light brown on top. While still hot, cut into squares in the dish and allow to cool. Note: This will keep for several days in an airtight tin and possibly freeze – I‘ve never managed to keep any long enough to freeze. We eat it as it cools. It‘s delicious!

Strawberry Cream Sponge Cake

* The first recipe I learnt at school, a traditional all-in-one sponge cake! Our domestic science teacher (as it was in those days) was a dragon and simply terrified me. Woe betide anyone whose sponge sank or didn‘t instantly spring back at the touch of her leathered old finger. To this day, I thank her – she rammed basic cooking methods into me and little did I know that my fear would become a love and forge the way for my future career. This sponge is layered with strawberries and cream – can you think of anything nicer? I‘ve always found this recipe foolproof; it‘s so easy to mix all the ingredients in one bowl. 42

Ingredients: 225 g/8 oz. butter (softened) 225 g/8 oz. caster sugar 225 g/8 oz. SR Flour 2 tsp. baking powder 4 free-range eggs A good quality strawberry jam, whipped cream, and fresh strawberries Method: Preheat the oven to 180 C/350 F/Gas 4 Grease and line 2 x 20 cm/8 inch sandwich tins Break the eggs into a large bowl, add the sugar, flour, baking powder, and butter and mix together until all combined (using an electric hand mixer or wooden spoon). Divide the mixture between the two tins and bake for 25 minutes. The cakes are done when they are golden brown and coming away from the edge of the tins, they should be springy to the touch. Turn onto a rack and cool. Assemble by layering with jam and cream and add strawberries to the top. Note: The cake in this picture uses twice the recipe i.e. four cakes.

Brought to you by: Caroline James Website/blog: www.carolinejamesauthor.co.uk Twitter: @CarolineJames12 FB: Caroline James Author

*The Strawberry Cake photos are by chef and weight-loss guru, Justine Forrest â&#x20AC;&#x201C; author of Justineâ&#x20AC;&#x;s Journey, by kind permission of ThornBerry Publishing.

Neurotically Yours by Bonnie Trachtenberg Genre: Romantic Comedy

Smart, attractive, and ambitious, thirty-seven-year-old Dara Harrison is, nonetheless, still single—and on sabbatical from dating. Ironically Los Angeles‘ most renowned relationship advice columnist, Dara has become a Southland sensation with her ―tellit-like-it-is‖ approach to the mating game. When Dara launches a revolutionary dating service geared for the perennially single and romantically challenged, its no-holds-barred theme soon makes the company a roaring success, even catapulting Dara onto the national talk show scene—until, of course, it all backfires! Kate at MeMyBooksandI says: ―The writing style was captivating and kept pulling me back for more, making this a quick read for me. I became totally caught up in the day-to-day running of the dating service and also in each of the character‘s lives – the drama that seemed to follow them all was an added bonus! This was a thoroughly enjoyable, easy read with some touching moments thrown in too. I look forward to reading more from this author.‖ Neomie at Best Chick Lit also enthused: ―I really recommend this book to anyone, because it does have wide appeal and would sit comfortably in more than one genre. It is a rounded and fun read giving me the giggles one minute and leaving me exasperated with the main character making me want to shout in pantomime style ―he‘s right here for goodness sake!!‖ the next. This book is a definite keeper.‖

The Promise of Provence by Patricia Sands Genre: Contemporary Fiction June in Provence is full of promise when Katherine arrives from Canada, eager to feel renewed by her surroundings. Endless rows of lavender prepare to burst into pink and purple blooms. Fields of sunflowers flow in golden waves among vineyards and olive groves. Ancient hilltop villages beckon. It‘s the postcard setting she envisioned, but is that all she needs? Heidi at Cosmochicklitian says: ―I really loved the idea that The Promise of Provence explores the life of an ―older‖ person and not someone in their twenties or thirties that you encounter in most books. Although Katherine is young at heart, I had to keep reminding myself that she faces completely different obstacles than a younger person would. The Promise of Provence evoked a feeling of wanderlust in me. I always wanted to visit France, but even more so now after reading about this breath-taking and beautiful region in this book.‖ Kate at MeMyBooksandI commented: ―Katherine‘s emotions jumped out at me. She was a character who I easily connected with and enjoyed following her as she faced lots of difficult decisions. The main feeling I got from the storyline was all about learning to move on with life when massive changes are thrown at you, there was a strong sense of hope radiating from the pages. This was a book that left me with a smile on my face and the strong desire to visit France!‖

Learning to Love by Sheryl Browne Genre: Romantic Comedy Widower, Dr David Adams, has recently moved to the village where no one knows him, to start afresh with his ten-year-old son. Angry and withdrawn, Jake blames his dad for the death of his mother and David doesn't know how to reach him. Andrea Kelly has too many balls in the air. With three children and a "nuts" mother to care for, her fiancé can't fathom why she wants to throw something else into the mix and change her career. Surely she already has too much on her plate? When Andrea's house burns mysteriously to the ground and Andrea and her entourage are forced to move in with the enigmatic Dr Adams, the village drums soon start beating, fuel aplenty when it turns out someone does know him – the woman carrying his baby. Jo at CometBabesBooks says: ―The book flows along nicely as you get to know both Andrea and David, with added bits of their children along the way. There is a colourful array of other characters; Sally and Eve are the main ones that stand out. The author tells you the story from both Andrea's and David's point of view and also hints that things may not be as they seem with Jonathan but leaves you hanging with 47

questions. I enjoyed the book and the back story. It is nice read. The main characters are easily likable. Jonathan had made mistakes and I certainly didn't feel sorry for him. There was little bit of a twist to the story. It was well set up.‖ Fran at ReviewedByFran said of Learning to Love: ―Sheryl has done a fantastic job with this book. The main character Andrea is very well written, making the reader understand Andrea‘s life struggles. At the start of the book I had an instant dislike to Jonathan, but I didn‘t know why. I loved this. It made me want to read on to see what he had been up to. The book examines relationship, family, and friends in such a realistic way. Friendships of neighbours are examined and the reactions of a community rallying around to support the family was lovely to read, something you may not see in the large communities these days. It‘s a great easy read that I would definitely recommend!‖ Shannon‟s Law by Emma Calin Genre: Contemporary Fiction Wild child inner city cop Shannon Aguerri walks a dangerous line between her methods and justice. When the bosses lose their nerve, she is transferred to green pastures to play out the role of a routine village cop. In Fleetworth-Green she encounters signs of people and drug trafficking and homes in on serious millionaire criminals. Please note: This book contains joyful explicit sex between adults in a consenting relationship. There is also strong language in high-stress police confrontations with criminals. JB at Brook Cottage Books says: ―Shannon's law is fast paced from start to finish. Shannon is a strong willed female character and takes no nonsense from anyone. She is tough but fair and I liked that side of her. We get to see her vulnerable side where the Earl is concerned and she is unsure of her place in his world. At the heart of the book is a love story between two very different people who society would not expect to be together. There are some very very racy sex scenes in the book which are quite explicit and had me heading for a cold shower! An enjoyable read.‖ Nikki at Books4U agrees: ―The story is fast paced and it had me gripped from the very beginning. I liked Shannon as a character. There are strong scenes of an adult nature in this book and they seem to jump out of you just when you are getting into the storyline. If you are into erotica you will like these kinds of scenes and find them sensational.‖ Kate at MeMyBooksandI included these comments in her review: ―Shannon was a brilliant character, she was very strong and feisty, some of her comments had me laughing out loud! The criminal side of things was really interesting for me. I felt like a detective as I tried to solve the case alongside Shannon. A heart-pounding rescue mission was one of my favourite parts of the book. Once again there were times when I found the author's writing style to be almost poetic, especially the romantic/steamy/sexual scenes. Shannon‘s sexual encounters were described in detail so please bear this in mind when you choose to read this book – it may not suit 48

everyone‘s tastes. Another enjoyable read from Emma Calin, romantic and sexy with a twist of police action!‖

The Wind Weeps By Anneli Purchase Genre: Contemporary Fiction Andrea leaves big-city boredom in Ontario to search for love and adventure on B.C.’s rugged coast. The love of two men and a woman leads her into the world of commercial fishing. She is drawn into a rough life alternating between savage beauty and serenity. But when adventure turns to terror, and Andrea‘s survival is threatened, will her newly acquired wilderness skills be enough to save her life? The Wind Weeps is a pure Canadian tale of love, betrayal, and triumph, told with gusto, humour, and bold insight. Susan at Fascinating Books says: ―This is a well-written story of how our decisions affect our lives and the people we come in contact with. Anneli Purchase has woven the captivating tale of Andrea‘s life into a masterful cloth. The reader is drawn in and becomes part of the story. A superb, unputdownable read!‖

Forever: (Angels Among Us, Book 3) by Linn B Halton Genre: Paranormal Romance Novella Harper Impulse Publishing Ceri is alone for a reason. She’s not meant to fall in love. She‘s here for one purpose only. Love is a powerful emotion, but can it change the course of someone's destiny? This is a romance story that explores the possibility of there being something more than just the 'here and now'. Now, Ceri‘s journey comes to an end in Forever - the final part of the Angels Among Us trilogy. Heidi at Cosmochicklitian says: ―This last part of the series has been an emotional rollercoaster, even more so than the other two parts. Forever is the perfect conclusion to a truly beautiful and thought-provoking series.‖ Kate at Me My Books and I says: ―The previous book had left me on a cliffhanger so I was pleased to discover that this picked up where that one had finished. Ceri was struggling with what she wanted her life to be and what her life was destined to be - there was a part of me which wholeheartedly agreed with her but another part of me that understood she had an important job to do. This book certainly raised some conflicting emotions within me. 49

JB at Brook Cottage Books says: ―As usual, Linn B Halton doesn't disappoint through her fantastic writing style, keeping the reader engrossed in the plot and causing the reader to once more have some emotional investment in each of the characters. I really enjoyed this series and would highly recommend it. It‘s not only a fantastic story but a fascinating subject.‖

Made in Nashville by Mandy Baggot Genre: Contemporary Romance Harper Impulse Publishing An on-stage attack left Honor Blackwood with more scars than just the one on her face. It‘s been ten years since she left her spot as Nashville‘s brightest country music star. Is now the time to return? Country rebel and rock star, Jared ‗Jed‘ Marshall is hot property on the Tennessee music scene in more ways than one. He‘s wild, he‘s sexy and everybody wants a piece of him. But when he sets his sights on Honor, is it pure attraction or just distraction on his mind? Join the country scene to find out!‖ Kate at Me My Books and I says: ―This was a romantic, musical treat with an edge of mystery – another Mandy Baggot masterpiece!‖ Kim the Bookworm says: ―I loved this book with all of my heart. A really unique story line for me: music being the main background with completely lovable characters, a great plot and a whole lot of lovin' going on!‖

So You Think You‟re a Celebrity…Chef? by Caroline James Genre: Romantic Comedy Thornberry Publishing

When media agent Hilary Hargreaves travels to Ireland to look at a campaign for a new cookery school, she meets a blast from her past - the romantic but feckless chef Mickey Lloyd, who is hellbent on resurrecting his flagging career. Her tough demeanour is rocked as it becomes apparent Mickey's intentions involve more than a stint behind a stove in his quest to pursue her. Has Hilary got too much on her plate and is she really prepared to risk it all for love?

Carol at Dizzy C‟s Little Book Blog says: There are some very funny scenarios in this novel, but it is not all a laugh a minute. There are some tender moments in there, too. There is a "didn't see that coming" shock, too, in what I can only describe as Ab Fab meets Masterchef in a soap opera. Action packed, funny, and emotionally charged. Superb! Charlotte at Best Chick Lit says: ―The large supporting cast (similar to those found in Jilly Cooper and Fiona Walker books) is brilliant fun, adding heartfelt and comedic moments at regular intervals throughout the book. One of the most unique reads on the market and one not to be missed.‖

The Fine Art of Delusional Thinking by Bonnie Trachtenberg Genre: Humorous Non Fiction This is a refreshing and fun self-help book which encourages the reader to better their life by using the art of delusional thinking, using such things as fantasy and daydreams! Written in a tongue-in-cheek way and with good humour, with such chapters as ‗Be a Star or Just Act Like One‘. Nikki at Books4U says: ―The reader will find this book highly entertaining and it will really make you smile as you read Bonnie‘s thoughts and suggestions. The book is not that long either so can easily be read in one sitting. This is my kind of self-help, just good light-hearted fun, nothing heavy, and I actually did learn a few things too!‖

The Star Child by Stephanie Keyes The Star Child Series, Book One - Genre: Young Adult Inkspell Publishing Kellen St. James has spent his entire life being overlooked as an unwanted, ordinary, slightly geeky kid. When the sudden death of his Gran takes him from the East Coast to the rugged cliffs of Western Ireland, all that changes. That is until a beautiful girl, one who has haunted his dreams for the past eleven years of his life, shows up spinning tales of a prophecy. Not just any old prophecy either, but one in which Kellen plays a key role.

Jenny in Neverland says: ―This book is everything a YA fantasy novel should be; emotional, heartwarming and amusing at times with plenty of romance, excitement, 51

and action. It‘s weird and wonderful and truly unique. The epilogue gave me shivers as it indicates that Kellen‘s journey isn‘t over and there‘s more adventure to come in the sequel. Personally, I think Stephanie will definitely be a new, upcoming voice for Young Adult readers out there.‖ Charlotte at Best Chick Lit says: ―The story is shrouded in mystery and Keyes very cleverly ensures the book is unputdownable by reeling in the reader within the first few opening pages. A complete joy to read and sets up nicely for a sequel.‖

A Little Bit of Madness by Sheryl Browne Genre: Romantic Comedy Safkhet Publishing

Celia Summers, intrepid mother of two, is too cuddly for sweatpants, she suspects. But then, her class at The Harbour Rest Home are similarly clad. Celia loves her work as an art therapist. She's proud that she gives her elderly independents something to look forward to. She's even ready to abseil from a church steeple to bring attention to the plight of her old people, no matter that she might fall and end up splattered all over the flagstones. When she does fall, however, it's much more painful - in love with PC Alex Burrows. Will he be her white knight in blue and ride to her rescue? Kim the Bookworm says: ―I absolutely loved this book. I have now read all of Sheryl's books and this one is most definitely my favourite. The storyline was just so entertaining and with the normal Sheryl Browne hilarity thrown in to accompany a great storyline, I‘ll guarantee it'll put a great big smile on your face. Carol at Dizzy C‟s Little Book Blog says: ―A wonderful reminder of just how great the older generation can be - A Little Bit of Madness was just what I needed to brighten my day.‖ JB at Brook Cottage Books says: ―This book is a lovely romantic comedy that I simply could not put down. It has a few twists and turns throughout that totally surprise the reader and the plot is fantastic, leaving you desperate to find out more. Another hit for Sheryl Browne. If you've never read any of her books I suggest you do so right away.‖

Shades of Appley Green by Miriam Wakerly Genre: Contemporary Fiction

“A really enjoyable and highly entertaining read…” Steph juggles a very busy career with the very serious job of being a single mum to Faith and Barnaby. Her job is not made easy by the man who must oversee her work, Greg. Steph explores her past through a series of diary entries. A past filled with happiness and heartache. A past she must face before she can look to the future. Her mistrust of men threatens to lead her to a lonely life where she feels unloved. But her life begins to take many unexpected and at times difficult paths that she must deal with. Can she do this alone or will help come from a very unlikely source? JB at on Brook Cottage Books says: ―Miriam Wakerly has a writing style that shows a special relationship with her characters. She explores many issues within the book. Issues such as grief, loss, love and the need for family. The issue of how the elderly are affected by loneliness, separation from family and isolation is also explored and gives the reader some food for thought. This a great book for a lazy Sunday afternoon or for on the beach. It won‘t have your pulse racing but it‘s not meant to. It‘s a ‗feel good‘ book with an unexpected twist at the end. I‘ll definitely be reading more work by this very talented lady.‖

Voodoo Child by Janice Horton Genre: Romantic Comedy Novella “The Voodoo isn‟t over for Nola or for Louis!” Synopsis: In ‗Voodoo Child‘, ex-celebrity UK fashion model Nola and her handsome Haitian husband Louis are expecting their first baby. But as one precious life begins another is about to end. Louis‘s beloved old Uncle Sid is dying and has declared his last wish is to see Louis and Nola‘s new baby baptised on St John‘s Eve – the most important event in the voodoo calendar. The voodoo isn‘t over yet for Nola or for Louis! Voodoo Child is the third book in the voodoo romance series of novellas. The first book in this series is ‗How Do You Voodoo?‘ and the second is ‗Voodoo Wedding‘. Each novella is approximately 66 pages or 20,000 words in length. JB at Brook Cottage Books says: ―I have loved seeing how the characters have developed and grown throughout this series. The transformation of Nola herself is particularly interesting. She has gone from a complete sceptic were voodoo is 53

concerned to being very open-minded about the whole topic! This is the perfect little book for sitting down in front of a roaring fire with and listening to the wind beating against the window – which is exactly how I read it!‖

A Shadow in the Past by Melanie Robertson King Genre: YA/Historical Romance Publisher 4RV Publishing ‗…the ultimate romance fantasy every girl has dreamed of at some point.‟ Synopsis: Nineteen-year-old Sarah Shand finds herself thrust back into the past. There she struggles to keep her real identity from a society that finds her comments and ideas strange and her speech and actions forward, unlike Victorian women. When Sarah verbally confronts confining social practices, including arranged marriages, powerful enemies commit her to a lunatic asylum. After falling in love with the handsome Laird of Weetshill, Robert Robertson, she must decide whether to find her way back to her own time or to remain in the past with him. Nikki at Bestchicklit.com says: ―Shadow in the Past is the ultimate romance fantasy that every girl has dreamed of at some point in her life. Sarah is forced to accept the truth that somehow she has managed to time travel back to the year 1886 and must act carefully or she‘ll end up in the asylum and then she‘ll never work out how to get home. Melanie Robertson-King has written a truly enchanting, easy-to-read romance. It feels like the fantasy of a wistful, naive girl as it pushes aside the current conventions that have made big romantic gestures harder to find. Complete with a castle, a passionate heroine and the brooding Scottish countryside, this is a book for anyone who is tired of cynical, modern dating.‖

Brought to you by: Janice Horton Website/blog: http://janicehorton.co.uk Twitter: @JaniceHorton FB: Janice Horton Author

Bend So You Wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Break! You are never too old for yoga. Just ask the 95-year-old yoga instructor in Toronto (or the 92-year-old instructor at the yoga studio I attend twice a week when I am in town. They are perfect examples of the benefits of this form of exercise that helps us feel better in so many ways. Research shows there are plenty of yoga students over 60 and there are many people teaching yoga who are over 80. Yoga and seniors are a natural fit. Those who practice yoga in its purest form see it as more than just a simple form of exercise. As you take care of your body, your mind and spirit are also rejuvenated as stress and chaos are released through the movement and breathing practiced in yoga sessions. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s a win/win undertaking! Most people who get involved develop more confidence as they try new, more challenging poses. Studies have indicated that yoga is extremely helpful in combating stress, fatigue, and pain. Some poses increase core strength and balance. As well as improving mobility, practicing yoga diminished fears of falling. Yoga is definitely a form of exercise that can help us feel younger, happier, and healthier. When starting out, make sure you research studios where a beginning class is taught by a certified yoga instructor. Good instructors watch carefully to ensure you are moving into the correct body positioning. They will encourage you to learn your bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s limits and not overdo things. Particularly in the beginning, you may not be able to perform all poses or hold them for very long but good teachers understand that and only encourage you to do your best. You will find that most classes have people working at all different levels of ability. Bottom line: you are there to feel better, not worse!

A few tips for the novice: 1. Don‘t overdo it! Be comfortable with yourself and go at your own pace. 2. Don‘t be shy about asking to modify a pose or use props. 3. Do your homework. Find a certified instructor with whom you feel a connection. 4. Make sure you choose the right style of yoga. E.g. Hot yoga is not for us! 5. Hydrate before and after your class and keep water nearby in case you feel dizzy. 6. Don‘t eat beforehand. If you must, a light snack at least an hour before is best. Good yoga instructors will be aware of possible limitations and all medical conditions should be duly noted on a registration form. If you are not offered such a form, this is not the place for you … or anyone else! Many studios offer specialized yoga for seniors or Gentle Yoga programs and these would be good places to start. Having said that, you may be pleasantly surprised as you find yourself moving into regular, advanced classes as time goes on. I can assure you from my own experience that yoga has some amazing transformative powers. The postures, relaxation techniques, and voluntary regulated breathing can offer much-improved sleep patterns. Improved lung capacity and decreased blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol have been demonstrated in controlled-group studies. Anxiety levels and chronic pain have been shown to diminish. The simple positive effects of belonging to a sociable group add to the benefit of taking up yoga. Even though you may never be able to bend yourself into a pretzel, everyone is capable of learning simple poses that will improve your overall quality of life.

Check out these Yoga for Seniors videos if you wish more information before joining a yoga group. My advice though: do not simply start doing yoga from a video. The assistance of a proper instructor is essential. Have fun. Be surprised. Namaste! Yoga teaches us to cure what need not be endured and endure what cannot be cured. ~B.K.S. Iyengar The yoga mat is a good place to turn when talk therapy and antidepressants aren‘t enough. ~Amy Weintraub The beauty is that people often come here for the stretch, and leave with a lot more. ~Liza Ciano, co-owner & co-director of Yoga Vermont, yogavermont.com 61

Here are more links that offer further information: http://www.myyogaonline.com/about-yoga/learn-about-yoga/the-benefits-of-yoga-forseniors http://www.seniorfitness.net/YOGA.htm http://healthyliving.azcentral.com/beginning-yoga-seniors-7371.html

Brought to you by: Patricia Sands Website/blog: http://patriciasands.wordpress.com/ Twitter: @Patricia_Sands FB: Patricia Sands

Nice Twerk If You Can Get It! Above: The Founder of England â&#x20AC;&#x201C; King Alfred The Great

Recently I have been researching a novel. Rather like going up to the loft, I was often distracted by lines of enquiry unconnected with my actual quest. I started to wonder why this should always happen. Why does an interest in modern popular music appear to connect with Anglo Saxon politics? Why do the bones of King Alfred The Great lead at once to a shipwreck in the year 1899. Soon it was apparent that all of this connected to a deceased wonderful English lady poet and the man dubbed the worst poet of all time. The answer, of course, is obvious. Everything is connected. All knowledge leads along the same paths to the same point â&#x20AC;&#x201C; whatever that is.

Above: Twerking for knights in shining armour by Lady Godiva – Pre-Raphaelite painting by John Collier1898, Herbert Art Gallery & Museum.

OK – here‘s my point. Everything in a modern romance novel is about a heroine. I always wanted to be a full-time heroine but I failed my heroism exams at school. This led me to a life of making up heroines that I would have been in person if I‘d stayed in, ignored the boys, and got the grades. A recent character of mine was a kinda twerky starlet looking to get noticed. Within a few googles I‘m checking out the life of Lady Godiva who rode naked through the streets of Coventry in about the year 1050. Now that was my kinda gal. She ordered that no one look as she passed by. The one guy who did so was dubbed ―Peeping Tom‖ and was struck blind. Dear me! If I had the front to do such a thing I‘d be maxing-up the book sales all the way along the route. Watch this space. And, my dear, dear Tom, relax and enjoy – reading my books is a private pleasure. It doesn‘t make you go blind. I don‘t even wear glasses.

Above: The bells of St Bartholomew‘s open my latest novel Shannon‘s Law.

Next up was research into the church of Saint Bartholomew in Winchester, Hampshire near to my place in the UK. When Saxon legend dubbed this area as possibly the burial place of King Alfred the Great, I immediately set out to find a recipe for griddle cakes. Oh yes – forget all the battles with the Danes and his possible foundation of the Royal Navy and University of Oxford, this was the guy who burned the cakes. This was all I knew of him. The story is that whilst on the run from capture by tall blond men wielding cans of lager, he was hidden by a peasant woman. She popped out to buy a lottery ticket and left Alfie to get the cakes out of the oven. He was so busy thinking about battle strategies that he forgot the cakes. Multi-tasking lets these alpha-males down every time. The true heroine was that poor woman with nothing to eat. There‘s no mention of her getting a lottery win either.

Above: No blue plaque as yet, but new owners have named it after her, it‘s a matter of time.

Within a few yards of the church is an old flint style cottage which was the home of the English poet Elizabeth Bewick. She died quite recently but I did have the pleasure of meeting her when I used to hang out with proper poet types. She was a real lady and even presented me with a couple of her books. She also told me that the Bewick swan was named after her father who produced wonderful books with illustrations of birds. One day they‘ll put a plaque on the wall of her cottage. And just imagine having a father who invented a swan. I mean ―White Long Neck Bird Lake‖ just doesn‘t sound like a ballet does it? One of the things I discussed with her was the phenomenon of Sir William Topaz McGonagall who is often honoured as the worst ever poet. I had come across his work when researching a feature on a heroine named Mary Rogers, who drowned in the wreck of the SS Stella in 1899. You may begin to gather that I am on a female heroine quest. This lady has a monument on the sea front in Southampton which is also near my base in the UK. She was a stewardess on a ship that struck rocks near the Channel Islands. Instead of saving her own life, she led others to boats and finally gave her life belt to another. She went down with the ship. Another heroine was also identified in the same wreck. The then famous operatic soprano Greta Williams sang the hymn ―Oh Rest in the Lord‖ to survivors in her lifeboat. 72

Who will be remember‘d for a very long time…. And so to the poet McGonagall. This poor wretch died a pauper, was banned from venues and reviled all his life. Yet he is still remembered today and his works remain in print while many of his highbrow detractors have faded from view. The fact is that he created not poetic work but the poetic twerk. He did what you or I could do, gave it a bit of a spin and had the balls to put it in your face. His most famous poem was the Tay Bridge Disaster. Here are the opening lines to give you a flavor. Beautiful Railway Bridge of the Silv‟ry Tay! Alas I am very sorry to say! That ninety lives have been taken away On the last Sabbath day of 1879, Which will be remember‟d for a very long time. Now how‘s that for a poetic waggle? This is how he immortalized the wreck of the ―Stella‖. „Twas the month of March and in the year of 1899, Which will be remembered for a very long time; The wreck of the steamer “Stella” that was wrecked on the Casquet Rocks, By losing her bearings in a fog, and received some terrible shocks. All my inquiries have led me back to where I began except for the full story on griddle cakes. My latest novel ―Shannon‘s Law‖ comes with a companion cookbook called ―Cop‘s Kitchen‖. There‘s enough cakes to build you a bottom really worth shaking. You see – if you‘re prepared to dig in and follow the path, it all joins up. Brought to you by: Emma Calin Website/blog: http://www.emmacalin.com/Welcome.html Twitter: @EmmaCalin FB: Emma Calin

Left: The log cabin in which Elizabeth Barnes and her family lived

Local legends …

The Witch of Plum Hollow

Growing up in Eastern Ontario, about fifteen miles from the village of Athens, one of the legends we grew up with was The Witch of Plum Hollow. Her real name was Elizabeth Barnes. Of course, we had to embellish the stories as we passed them on to people who hadn‘t heard of the woman. When the weather is better, I like to take friends who have never heard of the woman out by her small log cabin. But since that isn‘t an option in the online world, you‘ll have to read about her here. So grab yourself a cuppa and sit back and I‘ll tell you about this woman who was known locally as The Witch of Plum Hollow. Elizabeth Barnes was many things – mother, grandmother, clairvoyant, soothsayer, and water dowser – but not a witch. She was the seventh daughter of a seventh daughter, which she claimed was the reason behind her ―second sight‖ and ―sixth sense.‖ A small woman, barely five feet tall, she had slender hands and tapered fingers. Her sharp penetrating eyes were of great value to her as she read not so much the tea leaves of the people who climbed the rickety steps to the room upstairs to see her, but their faces. As much mystery surrounds Elizabeth Barnes now, over one hundred years after her death, as during her lifetime. Some sources show her date of birth simply as 1794 and her death date as 1886 while others claim that she was born on November 5, 1800 and died on February 10, 1891. She was born Jane Elizabeth Martin in County Cork, Ireland, to a well-to-do family. Her father had arranged her marriage to a colonel friend of his, who was at least twice as old as his daughter. But she loved someone else. True love prevailed and the man she was in love with, Robert Joseph Harrison, also a military man, came to her one night as her impending wedding day approached and they eloped to America. Elizabeth remained completely devoted to her husband and loved him with all her heart. Early in their marriage they had a son (Robert Harrison, Junior). Tragically, her beloved husband died leaving her on her own to raise the young lad. 76

About four years after the death of her husband, Elizabeth married David Barnes, a native of Connecticut and shoemaker by trade. Together they had nine children; six sons and three daughters. In the autumn of 1843, David, Elizabeth, and her son from her first marriage moved to Sheldon‘s Corners near Athens, Ontario. It was after their arrival here that her use of her ―gift‖ was first documented which led to the fear that some area people felt towards her and the respect that others showed her. It was here that she was first referred to as ―Mother Barnes.‖ Elizabeth and David raised seven of their children here, but in time, David lost interest in farming and decided it was time to move on. He took their youngest son David with him and moved to Smiths Falls where the two stayed with an older son Sam, who had ten children of his own. Having a houseful of children to feed, Elizabeth turned to fortune telling to support them. It didn‘t take long for her reputation to spread and people from near and far were coming to have their fortunes told by the kindly woman. Her success was quickly followed by fame. Some of these people who came to see her offered her great sums of money, but she never accepted more than her usual fee of twenty-five cents. Her title ―The Witch of Plum Hollow‖ was coined by a young reporter who interviewed her. It wasn‘t meant to be derogatory, rather a title of respect, meaning ―wise woman.‖ The title stuck and Mother Barnes to this day is still referred to as The Witch of Plum Hollow. Former neighbours recall seeing many wagons and buckboards coming from all directions to the tiny house where Mother Barnes and her children lived. These same people also recall coming across a woman wearing a shawl over her shoulders, sitting at a table with a pot of tea beside her upstairs in her cabin. As a teen, I remember going to her ramshackle log cabin and wandering through it, wondering if the whole thing was going to come down on my head. I even climbed the stairs to the upper level. Since I‘m here now, telling you about the Witch of Plum Hollow, you know that no harm befell me. Stories of her clairvoyant prowess included her ability to tell where the body of Morgan Doxtader would be found. She was also able to tell that it was his cousin Edgar Harter who murdered him. Edgar was later hanged for the crime in Brockville. Another man who had lost several sheep came to her to find out where his missing animals were. She told him that the meat was in a barrel in his neighbour‘s cellar and that the hides were tacked on the walls of this neighbour‘s stable. When the man checked the stables, he found the hides of his missing sheep where she said they would be. This is probably the best story of her clairvoyant abilities. Before Confederation, Canada was two provinces – Upper and Lower Canada. The capital had been 77

shifted about many times. John A. Macdonald, then attorney-general for Upper Canada, went to Mother Barnes to see if she could tell where the location of the new capital would be. She told him that Queen Victoria would pick the city on the south side of the river, which was Ottawa, then known as Bytown. She also went on to predict that this young man would become Prime Minister. There are many more stories about her fortune-telling abilities but those are best saved for another day. Elizabeth Barnes was buried in an unmarked grave in the nearby Sheldon Cemetery. In later years, a headstone was erected by Claude and Ella Flood, cheesemakers at nearby Plum Hollow, to mark her final resting place. The little cabin still stands, and in much better condition than it was in back when I took the photos. The property was put up for sale and subsequently sold. The new owner had a cement pad poured and the building reassembled on it with new windows, a new roof, and most importantly, a new lease of life. I think Mother Barnes would approve. If you had the chance to have your fortune told, would you?

Brought to you by: Melanie Robertson-King Website/blog: http://www.melanierobertsonking.com/wp02/ Twitter: @Robertsoking FB: Melanie Robertson-King

ÂŠ Sonja Birkelbach - Fotolia.com

LINKS

Our Lifestyle feature editors: Left to right:

Janice Horton, Bonnie Trachtenberg, Caroline James, Linn B Halton

Bookshelf Reviews: Janice Horton lives in Scotland. She writes fiction with humour and heart and with a hint of tartan. Look out for her Amazon Kindle bestselling ebooks ‗Bagpipes & Bullshot‘ and ‗Reaching for the Stars‘ and her magically romantic novellas ‗How Do You Voodoo? and ‗Voodoo Wedding‘. Janice writes lifestyle articles, has also been involved in BBC Scotland‘s ‗Write Here Write Now‘ and is a member of the Romantic Novelist‘s Association. In Search of a Happy Ending: Bonnie Trachtenberg is the author of two bestselling romantic comedies, Neurotically Yours, and her debut novel Wedlocked, which won the Gold Readers Favorite Award, the Beach Book Festival Award and the Indie Excellence Award. Bonnie was senior writer and copy chief at Book-of-the-Month Club and has written seven children‘s book adaptations. She lives in New York with her husband, four cats and a dog. People with a Passion & Interior Design: Linn B Halton writes novels about ‗Love, life and beyond…but it‘s ALWAYS about the romance‘. There‘s often a psychic twist that will make you stop and think … ―what if?‖ Linn signed with US publishing house Sapphire Star in 2012 and Harper Impulse in 2013. Before becoming a writer Linn had two very different careers—finance and interior design. Linn is a member of the Romantic Novelists‘ Association. In 2013 Linn won the UK‘s Festival of Romance Innovation in Romantic Fiction Award. Food, glorious food! Fabulous recipes, whether you want to eat healthily or indulge: Caroline James has owned and run businesses encompassing all aspects of the catering industry from a pub to an hotel, restaurants and outside catering. She currently lives in Cheshire and when not writing, runs a hospitality related company. Caroline spends her leisure time cooking, climbing mountains and contemplating life.

Our LLm member contributors: Mandy Baggot brings you award-winning fiction! In 2012 she won the coveted Innovation in Romantic Fiction award at the UK‘s Festival of Romance. Her novel Strings Attached was also short listed for Best Author Published Read! Mandy writes strong contemporary romance and characters you‘ll fall in love with. Previously self-published, she was signed by US publishing house Sapphire Star Publishing in January 2012 and in 2013 by HarperImpulse. Mandy is a member of the Romantic Novelists‘ Association.

Sheryl Browne brings you Fabulous, Funny, Heart-breaking Romantic Comedy! Her novel Recipes for Disaster, commissioned by Safkhet Publishing, was shortlisted for the Innovation in Romantic Fiction Award. She now has four books published under the Safkhet Soul. A member of the Romantic Novelistsâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC; Association, Sheryl grew up in Birmingham, UK, where she studied Art & Design. She works part-time in her own business and is a mum and a foster mum to disabled dogs.

Emma Calin was born in London in 1962. She currently lives part of the year in the UK and spends the rest in France. She has been writing since childhood and has won numerous local, national and international prizes for poetry and short stories. She blogs about the contrasts in life on both sides of the English Channel, which she likes to explore on her tandem whenever weather and fitness coincide. She defines herself as woman eternally pedalling between Peckham and Pigalle, in search of passion and enduring romance.

Stephanie Keyes spent the first twelve years of her career in the telecom industry, wearing various hats. Last year, Keyes began consulting under her own business, Sycamore Road Design. In addition, Keyes is the author of the YA Fantasy series, The Star Child, which currently includes The Star Child and The Fallen, both released by Inkspell Publishing. Stephanie Keyes holds a certification in Instructional Technology, an undergraduate degree in Business/Management Information Systems from Robert Morris University, and a M.Ed. from Duquesne University.

Anneli Purchase has more hobbies and projects than she can pursue in one lifetime, but of them all, writing takes priority. Storytelling has been a part of her life since she was a child. Writing the stories is just another phase of the process. Traveling, camping, fishing, mushroom picking, and birdwatching are her preferred pastimes when she is not writing.

Anneli has lived on Vancouver Island, Canada, for most of her life. The island provides everything she needs for the activities she enjoys.

Melanie Robertson-King lives in Brockville, Ontario, Canada on the St. Lawrence River. She wrote non-fiction articles before she turned her love for the written word to short stories and novellength fiction. Her first book, A Shadow in the Past, was published in 2012. Melanie loves Scotland and all things Scottish.On one of her trips to her father‘s homeland, she met Princess Anne at the orphanage where he was raised.

Patricia Sands lives in Toronto, Canada, when she isn‘t somewhere else. An admitted travel fanatic, she can pack a bag in a flash and be ready to go anywhere … particularly the south of France. With a focus on women‘s issues and ageing, her stories celebrate the feminine spirit and the power of friendship. Encouraging women of all ages to stare down the fear factor and embrace change. Her award-winning debut novel The Bridge Club was published in 2010. The Promise of Provence was released in 2013.

Miriam Wakerly retired in 2008, the day after Gypsies Stop tHere was launched in Waterstones. There was more to say; so No Gypsies Served followed in 2010. Set in the same delightful English village, Shades of Appley Green offers new themes: family, community and love, written with both humour and emotion. Brought up in Tetbury, Glos, she has lived in Surrey for 35 years. With a BA Degree in English, French, Sociology, Politics, she is author of many published articles and short stories; her novels show a keen understanding of social issues and change.

Our guest writers: Nicole Dauenhauer (left) and Elizabeth Cassidy (right) are - The Film Fatales! Elizabeth Cassidy‟s favorite quote is: ―My soul was removed to make room for all this sarcasm.‖ She has excellent taste in movies and will argue to the death anyone who would dare disagree with her.

Nicole Dauenhauer is known for her acerbic wit and razor-sharp barbs. Her taste in film ranges from the absurd (Anchorman) and the zany (Young Frankenstein) to stuffy period pieces (A Room with a View) and classic suspense (Rear Window).

Adam‟s Rib (adult satire) - Irreverent and oddly observant, Adam Hornyak is a selfdescribed train wreck. For reasons unknown, Adam is a human magnet for wildly outrageous situations that only he can communicate in his own unique manner. Since nothing embarrasses Adam, he will happily share personal stories of arrest records, family catastrophes, and an atypical dating life. With no filter between his brain and mouth, Adam will periodically shock his audience by tackling taboo subjects and providing commentary on topics that most people would never dare say aloud.

How best to help your children utilise their IT skill than encouraging them to think for themselves? Children and education – Mark Hulkus has worked in a teaching environment for many years. He has been a primary school teacher in a Preparatory Department in a 150 year old boarding school in Wales; he spent several years as a Head of IT. He currently provides a range of IT services in schools, helping them gear up for the recently announced changes in IT requirements. He has three children, is obsessed with the 1980s, and runs a fun design website at:www.retroboombox.co.uk.

Award winning author Sue Moorcroft – Sue works full time as a writer, a tutor and a competition judge. Sue is head judge for Writers‘ Forum Fiction Competition. Her novel Love & Freedom was the winner of the Best Romantic Read Award 2011, presented at the Festival of Romance and Dream a Little Dream has been nominated for a RoNA (Romantic Novel Award) in the Contemporary Romantic Fiction category. Born near Monchengladbach in Germany, Sue comes from an army family. They spent time in Cyprus and Malta, the latter being Sue‘s favourite place in the world. She now lives in Northamptonshire. Sue admits she hates to miss a Formula 1 race!

Talking about some exciting travel destinations – and you really will wish you were „there‟! Kim Nash - Mom to 5 year old Ollie, is a reviewer with a huge passion for books and loves to spread the word about the amazing authors and brilliantly entertaining books that are in the world. Kim loves chick lit, thrillers & suspense and books about the afterlife. She is a Sales & Marketing Manager for The Marketing Room and a writer for Have a Lovely Time.

Fun sporting activities – Kenneth Rosenberg is a California writer whose work has appeared in the Los Angeles Times, Surfer Magazine and other publications. Kenneth attended UCLA where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature. When he is not writing, he spends his time surfing, snowboarding and traveling the world on a shoestring. Kenneth‘s first novel, ―No Cure for the Broken Hearted,‖ was a top 10 bestseller on Amazon UK. His second novel, ―Tinseltown Blues,‖ was a bestselling romantic comedy. His third novel is the suspense-thriller, ―Natalia.‖

Trying something new is like walking in someone else‟s shoes Janice Ross was born in Guyana, South America and migrated to the USA in 1980. Although her citizenship certificate now reads the United States of America, she considers herself a citizen of the world. Sure she has not physically been around the world and back, but she‘s travelled in her mind and dreams. Janice is an author of a range of titles, reviewer of every possible type of book and devout supporter of others like herself. Janice will be sharing some interesting interviews with people who have stepped outside their comfort zone to try something new! Janice is also the host of the popular Blogtalkradio show ‗Cultural Cocktails‘.

Thanks for joining us! 89

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