Something Worth Watching?

Hey Everyone!! :-)

I'm back today with another video I wanted to share. This is just one more reminder that, while Trump is certainly not a viable option for POTUS, neither is Biden. Peace!

Don't Forget The Greens #Recipe!

Hey Everyone!! :-)

This is an easy, versatile dish that can be made in just a couple of minutes. You can use it as a side or mixed with rice or pasta and make it into a main course. Enjoy!

Ingredients:
4 cups broccoli florets
6 cloves garlic minced
2 tbsp sesame seeds
1 tbsp red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp rice wine vinegar
1 tbsp sesame oil
3 tbsp olive oil

Add the oils and broccoli to a saute pan and cook until broccoli starts to wilt. Add the garlic, sesame seeds, soy sauce, pepper flakes (optional), and vinegar and cook until the seeds are toasted. Remove from heat and serve as a side or mix with cooked rice or pasta and beans and eat as a main course.

Bon appetit!

Questions & Answers...

Hey Everyone!!

I thought it might be fun to start the weekend off with a little question/answer session. Enjoy! 😉

Excerpt from Rainbow Dreams:
Sadaka stared at Petri and asked, "Do ya eat people?"

Grimacing, Petri turned her attention to the child and reached out to tickle her, "Yes. Especially silly, little girls!"

Giggling, Sadaka asked, "Then what do you eat?"

Gesturing at the remains of their meal, Petri answered, "Food."

"Truly?" asked Daji. "You have no other nutritional requirements beyond the same type of foods other species consume."

Slumping, Petri put her face in her hands and rubbed her eyes. "I also can absorb energy from strong emotions."

"Other people's emotions?"

She nodded.

"What kind of emotions?"

"All kinds, as long as they're strong."

"Do you kill when you feed this way?"

Raising her head from her hands, she glared at him. "Not usually."

"There is something you're not telling me. What is it?"

"Nothing of importance."

"I'll be the judge of that."

Flicking her eyes toward where Sadaka sat watching them with fascination, Petri answered, "There's nothing else that's important enough that I need to tell you right now."

Following Petri's eyes, Daji's tense posture relaxed when he realized the child was still listening to their conversation. Turning to Chessie, he said, "Would you mind escorting your young friend to the entertainment area at the back of the ship. She may find some items there that will amuse her." He nodded toward the hall where the lavatory was located. "Just follow the hallway to the end."

Nodding, Chessie rose and held out her hand toward Sadaka, smiling. The girl looked momentarily disappointed, but then she smiled and took Chessie's hand. The two of them walked out of the room giggling over a whispered joke.

Turning back to Petri, Daji said, "You were saying?"

Petri sighed and shook her head. "I can feed from any emotion, but I can't keep from absorbing the feeling along with the energy."

"So?"

"So, it's dangerous for me to feed from things like anger, fear, hate, and other dark moods. I can't control the way they make me feel, and I can do things while under the influence of those emotions that cause problems later."

"Such as?"

She glared at him. "Such as murder."

"So you do kill when you feed?"

"No! I mean, not usually. I can, but what I mean is that if I feed from negative emotions, I might kill someone in a normal way before the feeling from the emotion wears off."

"Normal way?"

"With my hands or a weapon. Why are you doing this?"

"I'm trying to understand. You are an unknown quantity, and so a threat. I need to learn all I can about you."

"Why?"

"So I can decide if you need to be eliminated."

Her eyes narrowed. "You think I'll let you kill me?"

He raised his brows. "You've seen me fight. Do you think you could stop me?"

She bit her lip and looked away.

"That's not an answer."

Her eyes flicked to his face and away. She mumbled something unintelligible.

"What?"

Taking a deep breath, she sighed. "I don't know."

"Explain."

Shaking her head, she looked at him calmly. "No. I'm done talking."

He leaned back, considering her. "No. I need to know more."

She shrugged. "Too bad."

"Unacceptable."

"Why? We'll leave, and you won't have to worry about us. Why not leave it at that?"

It was Daji's turn to look away.

The answer clicked in her mind, and she gave him an evaluating look. "You want something from us, that's why you brought us back here. What do you want?"

He looked back at her. "You chose to return with me to my ship, rather than run the moment we escaped from the mad humans. Why? I don't believe it is just because you gave your word."

Petri blinked. "You first."

Sighing, Daji looked away and grimaced. "If we are to be of use to each other, we must trust each other."

Smiling, Petri nodded. "You first."

"There is nothing you have told me so far that could not have been said in front of the child. In fact, given the general conduct of the humans in this city, I believe it likely she has heard much worse."

Blinking at the change in topic, Petri nodded. "True, but I haven't told you how I feed since I have to be careful about which emotions I feed from. Even still, I'm sure she's heard worse, but I don't want to add to it." She looked down at her hands and back up. "She's tough, but she shouldn't have to be."

Daji seemed to weigh her with his eyes. "All children deserve to be protected. Your concern for her does you credit, especially since she shares no blood connection with you. How did you find her?"

"Why does that matter to you?"

The Paka growled and bared his teeth. "Very well, Arcanum, I will bargain with you."

"I'm not an Arcanum!"

"I'm not yet certain what you are, but I will bargain with you, nonetheless."

"What do you mean?"

"You may ask a question, and I will answer honestly, for every question of mine that you answer."

Petri considered his offer. They were getting nowhere, and she needed his help to get off world, so it seemed like the best compromise. Nodding, she said, "You first."

"Agreed. But I warn you, I will know if you lie."

"What do you want from us?"

"I have a problem that I believe your friend Chessie can assist me with."

"What problem?"

"You had your question, now it is my turn. Why do you believe you might be able to best me in a fight?"

"Something happened recently that I don't really understand."

"What?"

She shook her head. "What problem and why do you think Chessie can help you?"

"That's two questions."

She shrugged.

Taking a deep breath, Daji answered, "The thrice-damned authorities of this pestilential world are detaining my ship. I believe Chessie may be able to assist me because she bears the marks of one who tampers with computer systems."

Blinking, Petri asked, "You mean you can see the marks from her taps?"

"That is another question, and you already owe me two. What happened that you don't understand and how did you meet the child?"

Closing her eyes, Petri shook her head. "I'm not sure how to describe it. I killed a man and almost killed another one by feeding on them, but I wasn't in control of my power. I met Sadaka when she was running from some doll collectors. I kept them from taking her."

"Why?"

"That's another question. How do you know Chessie is a diddler?"

"The electrodes she uses to access the Rainbow leave a lasting impression on the skin when they are used often. Generally, only those who make a habit of tampering with computer systems spend enough time connected to their electrodes to acquire such marks. Why did you save the girl?"

"Because I know what happens to kids who are taken by the houses, and I didn't want that to happen to her. Why is the government holding your ship?"

"Because I am carrying a cargo they wish to acquire, but they do not wish to pay the price I ask for it. Why did you care about the girl's probable fate?"

Sighing, Petri rubbed her eyes. "I don't know. I just saw a way to help her, so I did. If the government wants your cargo, why don't they just take it?"

"They would never be able to defeat the security on my ship without destroying it. Why is the girl still with you?"

"She's helping Chessie and me find our way around Western sector. Besides, if we left her, the doll collectors would pick her up. If the government wants what you have so badly, why didn't they arrest you when you left your ship?"

"Had they arrested me, they would have created an interstellar incident with the government of my homeworld. Why do you need help finding your way around this sector? Are you from elsewhere?"

"Chessie and I are from Southern sector. Why would your government care if you were arrested? Are you a celebrity, or something?"

"I am Shujaa and one of the last of my kind who has received the full Askari training. My government would not be pleased if I were to be detained. Why did you leave your home sector?"

"I didn't understand your answer. What do Shujaa and Askari mean?"

"Your comprehension is not my problem, answer my question."

She glared at him, but it had no effect. "Because it was dangerous for us there. Define the Paka words you used."

He gave her a smile of grudging respect and nodded. "The Shujaa is a specific genetic line among the Paka that has almost died out. We are quite rare now, but those who carry the lineage often are stronger, faster, and in possession of sharper senses than other Paka. The Askari training is an intense training regimen that lasts years. It teaches Paka to make the most of both their physical and mental potential. It is quite rare for anyone to successfully complete the training. Why was it dangerous for you to remain in the Southern sector?"

"Some people found out what I am. Is this Shujaa thing how you knew I wasn't a human/Paka hybrid?"

"Yes. You do not smell like a Paka. How did those in the Southern sector find out what you are?"

"I nearly killed a man by feeding on him. What's the cargo that the government wants so badly?"

"Kufikiri manufactured ship components. Why did you nearly kill the man?"

"It was an accident! I was starving and I fed too deeply. I didn't mean to hurt him. Why would the government go to so much trouble for Kufikiri technology when they can just buy it from the Kufikiri themselves?"

"These components are state-of-the-art technology. The Kufikiri are not yet selling many of them off their homeworld. How do you feed that you could make such an error?"

"I feed during sex. I'm a dolly, and I feed from my clients. None of them have ever gotten hurt before. It just feels good to them." Petri didn't know why she felt the need to justify herself to this alien, but she couldn't stand the thought of him thinking badly of her. "If the components are so hard to come by, how did you get them?"

"I have friends among the Kufikiri. Did you also accidentally over-feed on the man you killed?"

Rodney's smirking face swam before Petri's eyes, and she forced it back down into her subconscious. Her jaw hardening, she spat, "No! He raped me, and he was going to kill me. I'm not sure how, but my power took over and drained him until he was just a husk." She glared at the male in front of her, daring him to judge her.

Daji's expression softened when he heard her confession, and he nodded. His voice gentle, he asked, "How long ago was this?"

Covering her eyes with her hands so she wouldn't have to see the compassion on his face, Petri said, "I'm not sure, it's been a bit crazy. Yesterday, I think."

"So, it is likely no one has realized it yet?"

She shrugged.

"Is the man you killed likely to be missed?"

A hard, bitter laugh grated from her lips. "Oh, yeah. I fucked up big time with that one."

"But if it has not been that long since it happened, he may not have been missed yet. We may still have a little time."

"We?"

"I assume you need to leave this planet, if not for the death of the man, then because Arcanum are not widely appreciated."

She glared at him. "And you'd be willing to have a Mgeni aboard your ship?

He smiled, "Do you know where the word 'Mgeni' comes from?"

She blinked at the non sequitur but shook her head.

"It is a Paka word. It means 'alien.' Nearly all of the people on this world are mgeni to me."

Her expression hardened. "You didn't answer the question."

Smiling, he shrugged. "You do not seem overly dangerous to me. From what little I know of you, you are as honorable as your circumstances allow you to be. Do I trust you? No. But I need your friend's aid, and I do not believe she will give it to me unless I assist the three of you."

"What are you offering and what are you asking in return?"

"I will take you, Chessie, and the child away from this world and leave you on another world of your choosing."

"And you want?"

"I want my ship released."

"And that's it?"

"That is it."

"If making you a prisoner would cause problems with your government, how can they detain your ship?"

"Ah, but it is only my ship that is held captive. I am free to leave whenever I wish."

She grimaced. "Politics."

He nodded. "As you say. Can your friend help me?"

Petri shrugged. "I don't know; we'll have to ask her."

Want to find out if Chessie can help? Grab your copy at the link below. Happy reading!! 😊

Rainbow Dreams

#APC #Spotlight: Blood Tail: A Lieutenant Beaudry Novel By Michael Kent!

Hey Everyone!! :-)

I've got Michael Kent in my APC spotlight, today! Michael is an active and supportive member of the  Authors-Professional Co-op Facebook group and his Canadian, murder mystery, psychological thriller, police procedure, detective, crime novel, Blood Tail, looks great! Here's the description:

Lieutenant Beaudry inherits a bloodbath in upper Westmount, the richest postal code in Canada. A prominent lawyer and TV host beaten and shot, his bodyguard hacked to death.

A Russian money-laundering operation, a psychopathic Korean playboy, a sleazy private eye, and an international hit team are somehow connected, and Beaudry must close the case without shooting anyone. Meanwhile, his ex-wife has run off in his vintage muscle car, and Internal Affairs is poking around—in other words, he’s having a normal week.

If you think this sounds like something you might enjoy, go ahead and grab your copy here:

Thank you all so much for stopping by! Happy reading! :-)

#Agent Thoth's #Personal Log: Day 1177

Hey Everyone! :-)

Agent Thoth discusses more of the trials and tribulations associated with living with hominids. Incidentally, if you've missed Agent Thoth's earlier entries, you can find them here: Thoth's Journal

Department for the Preservation and Confirmation of Intelligent Life (DPCIL)

Agent Thoth's Personal Log

Day Eleven-Hundred-Seventy-Seven:

There has been no relief from the extreme heat that is currently plaguing the area of this planet where I am stationed; however, a large amount of precipitation has fallen. This has not had any sort of salutary effect on the temperature; however, it has added an unreasonable amount of humidity to the local atmosphere that makes it increasingly difficult to breathe. Of note, the storms that accompany this precipitation have failed to provoke the normal responses from the fellow residents of my domicile. I can only surmise that the oppressive nature of the weather has left them as sapped of energy as it has me, and so incapable of any vigorous reactions. As always, I will continue to report back on any further developments…if I don't drown in the soup that has replaced the air, first.

Is it Autumn yet?. ;-) You may have noticed that Agent Thoth has a new look. I hope you like his new picture as much as I do, but I'd love to hear your thoughts, either way. Feel free to let me know what you think in the comments. ;-) Happy reading, everyone!

Strength In Adaptability...

Hey Everyone!! :-)

Here's a little bit more of the third installment in the Petri Dish Chronicles! As always, the disclaimer is that this is a draft and, as such, it's unedited and likely full of errors and is subject to revision, revamping, and being completely scrapped and rewritten. But, with that in mind, I'm reasonably satisfied with the basics of it, at least at the moment, or I wouldn't have bothered posting it. Enjoy! :-)

Excerpt from the third Petri Dish book:
“Interesting," commented Vlad.

Petri looked at him and raised her eyebrows.

“The adaptation you just made, remarkable. I’ve never encountered anything quite like it; you truly are a marvel of creation, Per Dish. I’m more convinced than ever that you’ll be able to make the connection we're looking for." Petri thought she detected a hint of excitement in his voice, which was something she never thought to witness in the perpetually practical and cynical entity.

“This is nothing like making a meld. If anything, it's completely opposite from what I would need to do to connect with someone."

“With someone but not necessarily with something,” he responded. "Regardless, it demonstrates a flexibility that is most encouraging.”

Something Worth Watching?

Hey Everyone!! :-)

I'm back today with another video I wanted to share. Two videos, actually, both of them just a reminder of exactly how alike Trump and Biden really are. Peace!

Sweet And Spicy Salad #Recipe!

Hey Everyone!! :-)

This is a light, refreshing salad recipe that's perfect for those hot, summer evenings when even turning on the stove is out of the question. Enjoy! :-)

Ingredients:
1 granny smith apple cored and chopped
1 cup raisins soaked in apple juice
1 cup walnuts chopped
1 large onion chopped fine
1 bell pepper chopped (your choice of color)
1 large tomato chopped
1 20oz can chickpeas drained and rinsed
4 cups arugula, kale, or romaine lettuce rinsed and drained
2 tbsp turmeric
2 tbsp garum masala
1 tbsp red pepper flakes
2 cloves garlic minced
2 tbsp rosemary
1 tsp honey
2/3 cup apple cider vinegar
1.5 cups olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

In a bowl, whisk together the oil, vinegar, turmeric, garum masala, pepper flakes, honey, garlic, rosemary, and salt and pepper until thoroughly combined. In a larger bowl, toss the remaining ingredients together until evenly distributed. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is coated. Serve chilled.

Bon appetit!

Books & Inspirations By Colleen Tews! :-)

Hey Everyone!! :-)

My friend, Colleen Tews, was kind enough to review Captivated by the Winter King in her cool Facebook group, Books & Inspirations! And mine isn't the only book she has reviewed in this group. She regularly does live book reviews, which she also posts on YouTube, makes announcements regarding upcoming book releases, and promotes the work of independent authors. Plus, it's just a lot of fun. 😉 If that sounds like something you might enjoy, check it out here:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/booksandinspirations/?ref=share

Happy reading!! 😊

Winter Wraiths...

Hey Everyone!! :-)

I don't know about you, but I'm starting to long for a little bit a winter. So, I thought I'd share this piece of it with you. Enjoy!! 😊

Excerpt from Captivated by the Winter King:
Tairise came through the door, speaking as ta did. "There's news! I think I know where she has gone."

Careful to slide the slumbering cat from his lap onto the couch, Ankou jumped to his feet. "Where?"

Motioning the king to follow ta, Tairise led him to the lower levels of the palace. Ta explained as they walked. "One of the guards finally admitted to having seen the runes flare over the door he was assigned to watch yesterday. They indicated that those who passed were residents of the castle, so he did not report the incident."

"That's against protocol! Why did it take so long for him to come forward?"

Hesitating, Tairise tried to find a way to make it sound better. Giving it up as a lost cause, ta just said, "He has been taking bribes to allow certain nobles to enter and exit the palace without entering a note of their passage into the record. He is an Anthropophagi, so he could not see through the glamour and thought it was one of those who had paid him." Seeing the rage in tas king's eyes, ta continued, "He is being held, awaiting your pleasure."

Forcing himself not to give into his anger, Ankou took slow, deep breaths. "So Kate has been kidnapped by Duibhne and Gormal."

The monarch's voice was mild, but Tairise knew the fury that boiled beneath that deceptively calm surface. Choosing tas words carefully, ta said, "I believe so, your majesty. There is no other scenario I can think of that fits all the available evidence."

Knowing he was a hair's breadth from losing control, Ankou focused on breathing in and out. "Where have they gone?"

"I don't know their destination, but they left through the caves," the Elf pointed to the door ta had brought tas king to.

Considering the options, Ankou realized only one fit. "They are taking her to the portal. They intend to send her back to the human world."

Nodding, Tairise conceded, "That is possible. If so, they will be breaking one of the most basic tenets of the law. They know that, so I can't think what their plan might be afterward."

Getting an iron grip on his temper, Ankou forced himself to think through the possibilities. He could use the Black Coach to get to the portal ahead of them, but he would run the risk that they would realize he was waiting and alter their plans. If they did that, he would have to hunt them without the advantage of knowing their destination.

As he debated his options, a scene flickered before his eyes of Kate's body lying cold and white in the snow. The Black Coach was in the background. The vision made him realize his instinct to follow behind Duibhne and Gormal, instead of racing ahead of them, was the right one. He had never been more grateful for his prophetic power and he sent a silent prayer of thanks to the goddess. With his decision made, he turned to his counselor and said one word. "Go."

"I can accompany you, if you wish, your majesty," ventured the Elf.

Shaking his head, Ankou put aside all good and gentle feelings. As he fully embraced his anger for the first time in a long time, his eyes glowed and his teeth elongated. Focusing his power, he summoned the Genii Cucullati and smiled. "I have all the aid I will need."

The evil light behind tas friend's smile made Tairise gasp. As the ghostly forms of the Genii Cucullati congealed into existence, ta backed away, trembling. The hooded spirits were the stuff of nightmares. Ta almost pitied Gormal and Duibhne.

With a gesture, the Winter king set the Genii Cucullati on the trail of the two Elves. The wraiths swirled around him, lifting him into their embrace, and surged through the door to the tunnel beyond. As they departed, an eerie howl filled the hallway sending Tairise running for the stairs. The wind of their passage swept the door closed behind them, and the resulting bang echoed through the empty corridor. The noise jarred the Elf to tas senses and ta paused on the stairs, looking over tas shoulder.

What ta saw made ta rub tas eyes to clear them. But the image remained. The place where the hooded spirits had manifested now held two glowing, blood-red outlines. One male. One female. Tairise shuddered. The Genii Cucullati were outside the mortal realm. Creatures of the Summerlands, they answered to rules beyond the ken of even the wisest Fae. By attempting to tamper with the Siorghra bond, Duibhne and Gormal had earned their fate. But ta did not envy them.

Well, now, that brings a bit of a chill, doesn't it? 😉 Want to find out what happens next? Grab your copy at the link below. Happy reading! 😊

Captivated by the Winter King

#APC #Spotlight: The Voyage By Marie Fostino!

Hey Everyone!! :-)

I've got Marie Fostino in my APC spotlight, today! Marie is an active and supportive member of the  Authors-Professional Co-op Facebook group and her new adult, women's fiction, personal journey, college romance novel, The Voyage, looks great! Here's the description:

Jack sees Jacklyn dancing at the bar and he knows he wants to meet her. Falling in love with her was easy. But talking her into marriage was a little harder. He wins her heart but not long into the marriage life begins. Babies happen and jobs come and go. Life goes on even after the thrill is gone. They married young with fresh ideas of true love. Innocent and naïve until life happened as their own issues and short comings get in the way. The stumbling blocks that are keeping this couple apart are just life itself. He loses a job, he has an affair, she loses a baby, she kisses another man. Will their love hold out?

 If you think this sounds like something you might enjoy, go ahead and grab your copy here:

Thank you all so much for stopping by! Happy reading! :-)

#Agent Thoth's #Personal Log: Day 1175

Hey Everyone! :-)

Agent Thoth discusses more of the trials and tribulations associated with living with hominids. Incidentally, if you've missed Agent Thoth's earlier entries, you can find them here: Thoth's Journal

Department for the Preservation and Confirmation of Intelligent Life (DPCIL)

Agent Thoth's Personal Log

Day Eleven-Hundred-Seventy-Five:

The outside temperatures at the location on this planet where I am stationed have become unreasonably hot, of late. My hominid-servant employees a climate modification device within my domicile, but even it has been struggling to mitigate the effects of the recent excessive warmth. It has gotten so bad that I can no longer enjoy basking in the rays of the local star that shine through the portals in the walls of my domicile, and have instead been forced to join my young protégé in his retreat beneath my hominid-servant’s sleeping platform in an effort to escape the implacable heat.

Obviously, it is impossible for me to concentrate in these conditions, so research is out of the question. I am recording the temperatures at various times throughout the day and night and will forward this information with my next report. However, until the temperatures abate somewhat, I'm afraid simply enduring is requiring all my available energy.

Ugh! I'm not a huge fan of summer weather, either. ;-) You may have noticed that Agent Thoth has a new look. I hope you like his new picture as much as I do, but I'd love to hear your thoughts, either way. Feel free to let me know what you think in the comments. ;-) Happy reading, everyone!

#August2020 #IndieBooksBeSeen #Indie #Author #Books #Monthly #BookReview!

Hey Everyone!! :-)

It's the 18th again, so time for my #IndieBooksBeSeen monthly indie author book review!! Enjoy!😊

Sarah and the Dragons by Michael Stern:

Have you ever been in a scary situation and had someone show up at just the right time to help you? Now imagine that "someone" was a dragon, and you'll have an idea of what Sarah experiences when she gets caught in a storm by herself and needs a helping hand. But dragons are curious creatures, and once they get to know you, whole new worlds of adventure can open up. What will Sarah's new friends show her? You'll have to read to find out!

Sarah and the Dragons is a children's book, but one that many adults could benefit from reading, as well. There are themes of tolerance, acceptance, friendship, inclusiveness, resourcefulness in the face of adversity, and adaptability of thinking that are ageless. All of which are presented simply and clearly, so that even a child can understand their value. And the illustrations are beautiful. Overall, five stars. I would recommend this book to anyone of any age.

Something Worth Watching?

Hey Everyone!! :-)

I'm back today with another video I wanted to share. This one discusses just one more example of the creeping fascism that's ongoing in the US. But go ahead and watch the video and draw your own conclusions. Peace!

Light, Creamy Pasta #Recipe!

Hey Everyone!! :-)

This is a quick and easy pasta dish that takes minutes to make and doesn't require you to turn on the oven on a hot, summer evening. Enjoy! :-)

Ingredients:
1 lb spaghetti or angel hair pasta
3 cups fresh spinach chopped
2 large tomatoes chopped
1 large onion chopped
1 20oz container button mushrooms sliced
1/2 cup fresh basil chopped fine
1/2 cup fresh oregano chopped fine
6 cloves garlic minced
2 cups white wine (your choice)
2 cups milk
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Drop your pasta into salted, boiling water and cook it until nearly done. Remove 1 cup of water from the pasta and set it aside. Drain the pasta and set it aside. In a large, deep-sided skillet, add the onion and the olive oil. Saute until the onion begins to caramelize and add the mushrooms, garlic, and tomatoes. Continue cooking the vegetables until the mushrooms soften and the tomatoes begin to break down. Add the rest of the ingredients except the milk and simmer for about 7-10 minutes to allow the wine to reduce. Add the milk and stir the contents of the pan to combine the ingredients. Add the pasta and the retained pasta water to the pan and stir until all the ingredients are equally distributed and the pasta is coated with the sauce. Remove the pan from the heat and serve the pasta warm with a side of crusty bread.

Buon appetito!

Changes...

Hey Everyone!

I just wanted to write a quick note to let you all know about a change that's happening on this blog. As you may have noticed, the contests posts that I've been posting on most Saturdays for the last couple of years are no longer being posted. Instead of coming up with another regular post for Saturdays, I'm going to leave them open so I'll have a spot to post promotions and announcements for both my friends and me that weren't able to be prepared a couple of months in advance, which is the lead time I need for most of the posts on this blog.

So, what does that mean? Well, it means that some Saturdays there will be a new post, and some Saturdays there won't be a new post. I hope you'll all be able to forgive me for the days when there's no new content for you, but I'll do my best to continue to make sure there's always something for you the rest of the days of the week. 😊  At any rate, I just wanted to let everyone know about the change, and I hope you all have a wonderful rest of your weekend!!

Peace!

The Winds Of Change...

Hey Everyone! :-)

You know, it's interesting the way NASCAR took the lead in the modern-day civil rights movement when it comes to sports corporate leadership. Honestly, I'd have thought it would be the NBA, or that maybe the NFL would do an abrupt about-face on the movement. Hell, I'd even have guessed baseball would bow to public opinion before NASCAR.

But then I got to thinking. Professional sports have been suspended for months because of COVID-19. And, yeah, they're trying to figure out how to resume them safely but, candidly, I doubt they'll really be able to do that until a vaccine is developed. Oh, they might start holding sporting events before that, but it won't be safe for either the players or the fans. So how sustainable it will be is an open question.

But NASCAR is different from a lot of other sports. The "players" are in cars, not in physical contact with each other. And, yes, there are still the teams of people who tend to the cars and the drivers, but they can travel together and stay together within their teams and away from other teams.

Sure, there will still be some personnel who will be different from location to location; the facility staff, medical professionals, etc. But they may largely be able to organize the drivers and their individual teams into self-contained units and so create a reasonably safe environment for races to be held. Granted, not with live spectators, but it would be more than people have now.

NASCAR, due to the basic nature of the sport, is one of the few sports that might be able to pull off safe-ish sports during a pandemic. And with sports fans desperate for fresh content, doing so could be a potential goldmine. Their only real problem is their image.

Traditionally, NASCAR has been largely regional. Yes, obviously, there are individual NASCAR fans all over the country, and probably the world, but it's still a sport with a fan base that's mostly concentrated in the south and midwest. And even within those regions, its fans are almost entirely white. So, even with a country full of sports fans who are starved for their entertainment of choice, it's still conceivable NASCAR might have trouble attracting new eyeballs.

Now enter the growing national attention on the Black Lives Matter movement, and the swing in public opinion regarding symbols of the Confederacy, and NASCAR suddenly has an opportunity. It's an opportunity that comes with a gamble -- after all, their existing fan base may not welcome their shifting stance and its attendant changes in rules -- but it's an opportunity nonetheless.

But, apparently, the powers that be in NASCAR decided to cast those dice. They're betting that the attention, and goodwill, they generated by choosing the correct side of history, at this juncture, will be remembered when they get their races up and running. They're hoping sports fans across America and of all different racial and ethnic makeups will hear about a race on tv and think back to when NASCAR took a stand and chose the truly "courageous" position that white supremacy is bad and the symbols of white supremacy are cruel, hurtful, and do not reflect the principles that America is supposed to be founded on.

Yes, I know, a truly radical stance. And, yet, as I said, not one that comes without risks. Because, as I'm sure we're all painfully aware, there is a significant portion of the population in the US who don't agree with those sentiments. And, historically, there has been a rather large overlap between that portion of the population and NASCAR's fan base.

But, as the song tells us, the times, they are a-changin'. And the younger generations are far less likely to be sympathetic towards or nostalgic for the unquestioned acceptance of racism that has largely been the norm in the past, and still, sadly, often is. That's a sea change in the national paradigm that's real and growing, and it's something NASCAR is banking on.

Coupled with the fact that there are a whole lot of potential new fans who aren't white and/or who live in other parts of the US than the south and midwest, that sports fans in general will be more open to trying something new in the absence of their sport of choice, and that even people who don't like the changes might overlook them because they want sports to watch more than they want to be openly racist, and NASCAR is betting that their gamble will pay off big. Not just now, but in the future, if they're able to hook new fans and get them invested in the sport.

Will it work? I don't know. Personally, I don't really have a dog in this fight; I wouldn't willingly watch NASCAR, or any professional sports, if you paid me in Amazon stocks and orgasms. But, objectively speaking, it's an interesting strategy. And I'm very much looking forward to seeing how it plays out.

Peace!

#APC #Spotlight: Anatomy Of A Darkened Heart (Dark Victoriana Collection Book 1) By Christie Stratos!

Hey Everyone!! :-)

I've got Christie Stratos in my APC spotlight, today! Christie is an active and supportive member of the  Authors-Professional Co-op Facebook group and her Victorian, historical fiction, mystery, psychological, suspense, thriller novel, Anatomy of a Darkened Heart, looks great! Here's the description:

The only way to survive the Whitestone family is to escape them.

Abigail Whitestone is the eldest of the three Whitestone children—and the most tormented. The room darkens and time seems to stop when she is born, but is it really her fault? Is she as evil as Mother insists, or does it forebode a life of abuse and cruelty?

With only one positive influence in her life—that of her nanny—Abigail tries her best to stay out of Mother’s way. But Mother always seems to be present when there’s a chance to hurt. And Father is no use at all.

If she could just keep the attentions of the wealthy and handsome Conrad Scott until he proposes, he could be her lifeline.

But after a violent accident and a disturbing series of events that permanently warp Abigail’s mental state, she finds herself drawn to stay in the very home of her abuse, and she’ll do anything to force her siblings to stay too—anything. 

If you think this sounds like something you might enjoy, go ahead and grab your copy here:

Thank you all so much for stopping by! Happy reading! :-)

#Agent Thoth's #Personal Log: Day 1170

Hey Everyone! :-)

Agent Thoth discusses more of the trials and tribulations associated with living with hominids. Incidentally, if you've missed Agent Thoth's earlier entries, you can find them here: Thoth's Journal

Department for the Preservation and Confirmation of Intelligent Life (DPCIL)

Agent Thoth's Personal Log

Day Eleven-Hundred-Seventy:

I have recently had reason to reflect on how the same stimulus can provoke different reactions in different individuals. The area of this planet where I am stationed has reached the point in its revolution around the central star of this solar system where the local temperatures approach their maximum. Predictably, this results is increased turbulence in the atmosphere over this portion of the planet and the inevitable accompanying violent weather patterns. Included in these tumultuous atmospheric conditions are some rather loud storm fronts.

The noise produced by these tempests has differing effects on the various occupants of my domicile. Surprisingly, my hominid-servant has a similar reaction to my own, in that she largely ignores the sounds. I find this unexpected because of her general propensity for exaggerated reactions to anything that irritates or inconveniences her. However, perhaps her subdued response is due to the fact that her sense of hearing is so limited.

The canid’s reaction to the racket produced by these storms is, to my mind, the most annoying. Since it insists on adding its own vocalizations, creating a cacophony. On the opposite end of the spectrum is the way the juvenile felid responds. My young compatriot seems to find the din most intimidating, and so retreats to his sanctuary beneath my hominid-servant’s sleeping platform. There he waits in complete silence until the noise retreats into the distance. In fact, it’s not uncommon for him to remain in concealment until my hominid-servant calls him and offers food as an enticement.

It’s this last detail that has me wondering if it’s possible that the small pest might not have the best strategy. Because, while it requires that he go to some inconvenience by remaining in one place for an extended period of time, it also results in the greatest reward. As much as it would offend my dignity to do so, I am considering adopting my youthful protégé’s approach to responding to these periodic disturbances to the tranquility of my domicile. If I attempt this experiment, I will, naturally, report back on the outcome.

Hmmm... Something to consider. ;-) You may have noticed that Agent Thoth has a new look. I hope you like his new picture as much as I do, but I'd love to hear your thoughts, either way. Feel free to let me know what you think in the comments. ;-) Happy reading, everyone!

Changes In Perspective...

Hey Everyone!! :-)

Here's a little bit more of the third installment in the Petri Dish Chronicles! As always, the disclaimer is that this is a draft and, as such, it's unedited and likely full of errors and is subject to revision, revamping, and being completely scrapped and rewritten. But, with that in mind, I'm reasonably satisfied with the basics of it, at least at the moment, or I wouldn't have bothered posting it. Enjoy! :-)

Excerpt from the third Petri Dish book:
Blinking, she looked around and realized that it had been necessary to move further out of sync with the rainbow than she normally did. That distance allowed her to see into some of the layers of the rainbow she hadn’t seen before. Or, perhaps, it was the greater depth of connection the new taps the Arcanum had invented gave her. Either way, she wasn’t sure how she would use the new information, but it was interesting. It gave the landscape around her an entirely new aspect.

Something Worth Watching?

Hey Everyone!! :-)

I'm back today with another video I wanted to share. This one is just a reminder of why we need to get rid of the corrupt, lying, criminals from both major political parties who have made careers out of selling out the interests of the American people to their rich donors. Peace!

Roasted Vegetable And Quinoa Salad #Recipe!

Hey Everyone!! :-)

This is a healthy salad recipe that can be served hot or cold, perfect for summertime. Enjoy! :-)

Ingredients:
4 cups water
2 cups quinoa
1 large tomato chopped
1 large onion chopped fine
1 cup broccoli florets
1 ear corn cleaned
1 bell pepper chopped (your choice of color)
1 eggplant cut into small cubes
8 cloves garlic minced
1/4 cup fresh basil chopped fine
1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped fine
1/4 cup pecorino romano grated
1.5 cups olive oil
3/4 cup red wine vinegar
1/2 cup greek yogurt
Salt and pepper to taste

Put the water and quinoa in your favorite quinoa cooking device and cook as long as your device requires quinoa to be cooked. Don't forget to salt the water. When the quinoa is cooked, set it aside to cool.

On a grill or grill pan, give the corn, onion, broccoli, pepper, and eggplant a quick char. Transfer the vegetables to a baking sheet (or use a folded sheet of aluminum foil to create a sealed pocket if cooking on a grill), brush liberally with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper, and cook until the eggplant is fork-tender. Cut the corn off of the cobb and mix the roasted vegetables, tomatoes, and quinoa together in a large bowl. Toss to distribute evenly.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining ingredients and then pour the dressing over the vegetables and quinoa. Toss to coat evenly. Serve warm or chilled.

Bon appetit!

#Author #Announcement: #Goodreads #Giveaway: Dragon Thunder By JS Burke!

GOODREADS GIVEAWAY for Signed Paperback
Enter for a chance to win a signed copy of "Dragon Thunder" by J.S. Burke!
Science Fantasy with ice dragons, shapeshifter octopuses, and a killer volcano.
Drakor is now the unexpected, unwanted leader in an unknown world.
How can one young, upstart dragon lead an angry group of dragons?
Can Drakor survive another brutal fight with his nemesis?
Stand-alone book in the award-winning Dragon Dreamer series, for young adults 9 to 99.
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like you are smack dab in the middle of the story.” ***** Amazon Review
Dive into a new adventure now!


https://www.goodreads.com/giveaway/show/309523-dragon-thunder

#Animal #Rescuer's #Guide To #Staying ( #Relatively ) #Sane! #Free! :-)

Hey Everyone!! :-)

Just a reminder, for those who haven't checked it out yet, I've collected all my animal rescue/care posts together and published them as a small book.  If you'd like, you can download the book for free from Amazon, Smashwords, B&N, Kobo, and iTunes.

Amazon

Smashwords

iTunes

Barnes & Noble

Kobo

Thanks for stopping in today, and don't forget to check back tomorrow for the next installment of Mistral Dawn's Musings! :-)

#APC #Spotlight: The Watcher By Jennifer Thompson!

Hey Everyone!! :-)

I've got Jennifer Thompson in my APC spotlight, today! Jennifer is an active and supportive member of the  Authors-Professional Co-op Facebook group and her young adult, witches, teen, fantasy, novel, The Watcher, looks great! Here's the description:

Being a teenager is hard enough, but being a witch, makes it even harder. Cole find he keeps bumping into a new girl. What he doesn't know, is how much she will change his life forever. Experience the world of The Vilincia Coven, and set out to make your own fate.

 If you think this sounds like something you might enjoy, go ahead and grab your copy here:

Thank you all so much for stopping by! Happy reading! :-)

#Agent Thoth's #Personal Log: Day 1165

Hey Everyone! :-)

Agent Thoth discusses more of the trials and tribulations associated with living with hominids. Incidentally, if you've missed Agent Thoth's earlier entries, you can find them here: Thoth's Journal

Department for the Preservation and Confirmation of Intelligent Life (DPCIL)

Agent Thoth's Personal Log

Day Eleven-Hundred-Sixty-Five:

In order to finally discover exactly what it is that drives my hominid-servant to these periodic bouts of unregulated and seemingly fruitless activity, I laid in wait for one to begin. I remained in close proximity to my hominid-servant for several days; stalking her as I would prey about whose habits I needed to educate myself. Once my hominid-servant began her ritual, I snuck up close to her, though I endeavored to remain out of range of her flailing limbs.

Fortunately, on this occasion, my hominid-servant engaged in her ritual immediately beside a piece of furniture under which there was adequate room to conceal myself. So, I was able to get close while still protecting my person from harm. Unfortunately, I was not able to discern any perceivable cause for her behavior.

In spite of my best efforts, I remain mystified as to why my hominid-servant continues to expend so much energy on an activity that serves no distinguishable purpose. At this point, my working hypothesis is that this is simply further evidence of the congenital madness that plagues the hominids of this planet. However, as always, I will continue to observe and report back on any further developments.

Hominids are weird! ;-) You may have noticed that Agent Thoth has a new look. I hope you like his new picture as much as I do, but I'd love to hear your thoughts, either way. Feel free to let me know what you think in the comments. ;-) Happy reading, everyone!