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Today is a GOOD day!

By the subject line and the Homer picture you've probably guessed I have good news to share, huh? LOL

Well, I do. This isn't about publishing though. It's personal good news. Recently, my mother-in-law was diagnosed with uterine cancer. We were all pretty devastated by the news. At the time, we didn't know anything more than that. Cancer. We hear that word and our world falls apart. I didn't realize just how big an impact it would have on me, until someone close to me ended up with it. My first thought was how unfair it all seemed. She's the sweetest lady in the world. The type of person who rarely gets angry, never holds a grudge, and prays daily for everyone, including strangers. Why would someone so good have to go through this? But, I don't suppose I'm the only one who has felt that way about a sick loved one.



I struggled, but she was in good spirits. Her attitude (once again) quite frankly amazed me. Despite how I felt inside, I knew I had to put all that aside and do what I could to make this whole thing as easy on her as possible. It was our turn to be there for her. To show our support and be the caregiver for once.



Earlier this week the first big step in ridding her body of cancer took place. She had a hysterectomy. The operation went well, but we didn't have any news, good or bad, regarding the cancer. Had it spread? That question has been on all our minds for the last few days and I can easily say we've been holding our breath. Well, this morning we finally got word that her cancer has not spread into the lymph nodes. This is the best news!!



She's being released from the hospital today and will be going back in a few weeks for some type of follow up treatment. We aren't sure what sort of treatment exactly, but we're thrilled to know that she's feeling good, the surgery went well, and no cancer in the lymph nodes. Yes!



Between my dad's strokes and my MIL's cancer, it's made one thing very clear in my mind. Life is damn fragile. Live it to the fullest. Cherish your friends and family. Eat that piece of chocolate. Take that weekend away with your spouse. Enjoy the leaves falling from the trees. Read that book you have next to your bed....because you never can tell what tomorrow will bring!

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In other news. If any of you are around at noon est today come and party with me and a few of the other Red Sage authors at After Dark. I WILL be giving away a few ebooks, sharing hunk pictures, and posting a few hot excerpts. *grin*

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/rb_afterdark/

my first book signing

So, I told some of you that I recently had my first ever book signing. It wasn't a smashing success, but it was good experience. I came away having learned what I'd do differently. I don't think I showed any pictures, but my MIL came over the other day and gave me a few that she'd taken. So, I figured I'd scan one in and show you all.

This is at the Borders in our local mall. The staff was very friendly and made me feel very welcome. (click for a larger view) In other news....Taking Chloe gets 5 cherries at Whipped Cream. How cool is that? My first review from them too! *grin*

Here's a snippet: "Ms. Rainey writes a steamy novella, no doubt. Her characters are rich with life and human qualities that draw the reader into the story. The scenes are vibrant and filled with passion. The writing style flows well, hooking the reader from page one until the very end." --Tiger Lily

Read the full review HERE

snobs

Some of you may know that I went to a book signing this weekend. It was my first. It was held at a local Waldenbooks (Borders). The folks who worked there made me feel very welcome! My kids and husband went along with me, which was awesome. They hung out in the mall while I sat and waited for folks to come along and take a gander at my book. My parents even showed up. How cool is that? My mother-in-law and my niece came as well. I had lots of support and I feel so blessed to have had so many people backing me. Afterwards I took them all to The Olive Garden for lunch as a thank you.

I'm a major introvert, so sitting at a table alone, trying to get people to come over and check out my book and bookmarks was easily the most difficult thing I've ever done. I'd gladly walk over hot coals if it meant avoiding that type of thing.

The good news is, I did manage to attract a few readers, sold a few books, handed out lots of bookmarks, and got a little bit of experience under my belt. I know what I'd do different next time. I gathered lots of mental notes, trust me! LOL The bad news is, I recieved several frowns from customers who happened to look at my smokin' hot Seduce Me cover. Wait, let me explain. It wasn't frowns so much as actual disapproving looks. Nose in the air, tugging their child close, as if to keep them away from the 'riff-raff'. This, I'm learning, is all par for the course in the life of an erotic romance author.

Here's the thing, I don't judge people based on what they read. If you don't read erotic romance that's okay. Truly! I get that. I had a few readers smile, said they didn't read romance, but wished me luck on the signing anyway. They were kind and nonjudgmental. I appreciate that attitude more today than ever!

Of course, this isn't the first time I've gotten dirty, rude looks. It's not the first time parents tugged their child away from the 'freak'. Growing up with skin graphing scars has taught me how to smile through the pain. No one can smile through the pain quite like I can! No one can pretend it doesn't hurt quite like me. I'll never breakdown in public. I'll never let them see how much they can hurt me. Instead, I grin and focus on the nice people. The ones who wished me luck, took the time to say hi and made me feel welcome, rather than unwanted.

In other, happier, news...Taking Chloe, the 3rd in my Vaughn series releases tomorrow at Samhain. Yay! Here's a bit about it!

“Taking Chloe” by Anne Rainey
Read An Excerpt Online
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Red Hots!

ISBN: 978-1-60504-575-7
Length: Novella
Price: 3.50
Publication Date: June 2, 2009
Cover art by Scott Carpenter

The only way to keep what he has…is to surrender everything.

The Vaughn Series, Book 3

Merrick Vaughn couldn’t be happier with his life. His business is jumping and his marriage to the love of his life is about as good as it gets. At least, that’s what he thinks…until Chloe announces she wants to separate.

Stunned doesn’t begin to cover it, but it quickly becomes clear that she’s dead serious. And if he doesn’t take action, as in now, he’s going to lose the only woman he’s ever loved.

The last thing Chloe wants is a divorce, but she can’t go on living with a virtual stranger who spends all his time—and hers—behind a desk. It’s tearing her apart, and taking a break to sort out her thoughts seems her only recourse.

Then Merrick offers a wicked proposition: go to Hawaii with him for one week’s vacation. After that, if he hasn’t successfully changed her mind, he’ll let her go. No questions asked. There’s only one caveat. She must agree to give him complete control.

Chloe’s intrigued and scared. One week in paradise might bring them closer—or be their ultimate undoing.

Warning: This story contains graphic language, a touch of voyeurism, anal sex, and husband-and-wife lovin’ in lots of sinful positions. Have your significant other handy!