Thanks to all of you who entered the contest to win a copy of my book in recognition of Down Syndrome Awareness Month. I appreciate the support!
Without further ado, the winner is . . . .
Drum roll, please.
Bonnie.
Yay!!
You can email me your address at talleyrl(AT)yahoo(DOT)com.
Thanks again to everyone who entered.
Showing posts with label The Upside of Down. Show all posts
Showing posts with label The Upside of Down. Show all posts
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Winner of Blog Hop
Thank you to everyone who participated in the blog hop. Wasn't it fun? Thanks to Tristi Pinkston for sponsoring it. If you haven't read any of Tristi's books, you are missing out! Be sure to visit her blog and learn about all of her books--she's multi-talented for sure.
Without further ado, the winner of a copy of my book The Upside of Down is . . . . (drum roll, please) Alison. Yay!!! I hope you enjoy the book, Alison. I'll contact you for your address.
Thanks again for the support! Happy reading!
Without further ado, the winner of a copy of my book The Upside of Down is . . . . (drum roll, please) Alison. Yay!!! I hope you enjoy the book, Alison. I'll contact you for your address.
Thanks again for the support! Happy reading!
Monday, August 29, 2011
Awesome August Blog Hop
Welcome to the Awesome August Blog Hop, where bloggers from all over the Internet have come together to throw a summertime party!Every blog on this hop is offering a fun prize, and entering is quick and easy. Simply follow the instructions on each blog, leave a comment, and bop right along to the next blog. You can win multiple times, so be sure to check out all the participating blogs!
On my blog, you can win a copy of my book The Upside of Down
To enter:
1. Become a follower of my blog.
2. Subscribe to my newsletter (located in the right hand column). I promise not to spam you. I send out a newsletter every quarter or so.
3. Leave me a comment and tell me that you've done both things. If your e-mail isn't available through your profile, I'll need you to leave that, too - I can't tell you if you've won if I can't contact you!
This blog hop runs through Wednesday night at midnight, so be sure to enter before then! The winner will be notified by e-mail.
Now that you've entered my contest, come meet all my other blog friends and see what fun things they are offering!
| 1. Tristi Pinkston, LDS Author 2. Karen Hoover 3. Michael Young 4. Kristy Tate 5. Cindy Hogan 6. Julie Bellon 7. Margot Hovley 8. Laurie Lewis 9. Mandi Slack 10. Melanie Jacobson 11. Joyce DiPastena 12. Renae Mackley | 13. Debbi Weitzell 14. Donna Hatch 15. Carolyn Frank 16. Marsha Ward 17. Stacy Coles 18. Bonnie Harris 19. Danyelle Ferguson aka Queen of the Clan 20. Diony George 21. Lisa Asanuma 22. Susan Dayley 23. Christine Bryant @ Day Dreamer 24. Stephanie Humphreys | 25. Ranee` Clark 26. Tamera Westhoff 27. I Am A Reader, Not A Writer 28. Heather Justesen 29. Rebecca Talley 30. Jennifer Hurst 31. Aimee Brown 32. Cheryl Christensen 33. Rachelle Christensen 34. Imaginary Reads 35. Andrea Pearson |
Learn more about Awesome August Blog Hop here.
View More Awesome August Blog Hop Participants
Get The Code
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Good luck!
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Goodreads Giveaway
If you'd like a chance to win a copy of my book, The Upside of Down, be sure to visit Goodreads and register for a chance to win. I'm giving away 2 copies to people living in the U.S. The giveaway is June 1-June 30.
Click here to enter.
I've had some wonderful feedback on this book and I'm thrilled not only that readers like the story but that some have changed their perspectives after reading it. Thank you to all of you who have already read it. I really appreciate it and I appreciate the ratings and reviews on Goodreads. Thank you!!
Click here to enter.
I've had some wonderful feedback on this book and I'm thrilled not only that readers like the story but that some have changed their perspectives after reading it. Thank you to all of you who have already read it. I really appreciate it and I appreciate the ratings and reviews on Goodreads. Thank you!!
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Friday, April 1, 2011
The Winner Is . . . .
Congratulations to Lexie@BookBug, you are the winner of The Upside of Down. I hope you enjoy it!
Thanks to everyone who commented and played along.
Thanks to everyone who commented and played along.
Monday, March 28, 2011
Contest Giveaway
In celebration of the release of Laura Bingham's newest novel, Wings of Light, I am giving away a copy of my book, The Upside of Down.
To enter the contest:
1. Visit Laura's blog and leave a comment on one of her posts
2. Become a follower of my blog
3. Subscribe to my newsletter (under my photo)
4. Add my book on Goodreads
5. Add Laura's book, Wings of Light, on Goodreads
Each one receives an entry into the contest, the more you do, the more chance you have of winning! You have until midnight March 31st to enter. I'll use http://www.random.org/ on April 1st to draw a winner--no joke for any of you April foolers.
You can leave a comment on this post to let me know what you've done.
Thanks for participating and good luck!
To enter the contest:
1. Visit Laura's blog and leave a comment on one of her posts
2. Become a follower of my blog
3. Subscribe to my newsletter (under my photo)
4. Add my book on Goodreads
5. Add Laura's book, Wings of Light, on Goodreads
Each one receives an entry into the contest, the more you do, the more chance you have of winning! You have until midnight March 31st to enter. I'll use http://www.random.org/ on April 1st to draw a winner--no joke for any of you April foolers.
You can leave a comment on this post to let me know what you've done.
Thanks for participating and good luck!
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Book Signing at Seagull Book on Saturday
If you missed me last weekend, great news: I'll be back in UT this weekend. I'll be signing books at Seagull Books, 2250 N. University Parkway, Provo, UT, on Saturday 12:00-2:00 pm for the "Celebrating Sisterhood" event. It's the Seagull next to Shopko and behind Olive Garden on the BYU diagonal.
I'd love to see you if you're in the neigborhood. Please, help me pass the word!
Thank you!!
I'd love to see you if you're in the neigborhood. Please, help me pass the word!
Thank you!!
Monday, March 21, 2011
Lucky Leprechaun Giveaway Hop Winner
Thanks to everyone for such an awesome response to my book and to the giveaway hop. I used http://www.random.org/ to pick the winner. And the winner is . . . . .
Jennifer @ The Bawdy Book Blog. Yay!!! Woo hoo!!! I'll send you an email to get your mailing address!
Thanks again, everyone, for participating!!
Jennifer @ The Bawdy Book Blog. Yay!!! Woo hoo!!! I'll send you an email to get your mailing address!
Thanks again, everyone, for participating!!
Monday, March 7, 2011
Newspaper Article
Here is the text from a newspaper article in The Daily Times in Farmington, NM. I'm so excited!
Mother knows best
By Melissa Oyer The Daily Times
Posted: 03/07/2011 10:51:29 AM MST
FARMINGTON — For an author with 10 children, there's always something funny, serious, soothing, traumatic, dangerous, witty and, most of all, heartfelt to write about.
Rebecca Talley used all of these and more to emote the message in her latest book, "The Upside of Down."
"My family inspired me to write this book," Talley said. "When I shared some of my experiences with my friends and family, they encouraged me to write everything down so I decided to express my experiences within the framework of a novel so I could tweak things here and there to create a functional storyline."
"The Upside of Down" is a story centered around a woman raising a large family and trying to do the best she can despite trials that arise. The book helps mothers, or women in general, take hold of problems that arise throughout life.
A series of events happens to Natalie, the main character, that chip away at her faith. She begins to question her beliefs, her faith, and most of all, herself. After some tough-love and deep bouts of soul searching, she realizes that what has happened to her was meant to be.
Though this story is framed within a religious belief system, Talley thinks many busy mothers can identify with the normal, everyday dealings most people encounter, such as the infamous haircuts small children like to give themselves and/or their siblings, trying to conquer the ever-growing mountain of laundry, juggling kids' schedules, dealing with difficult family members, and attempting to raise respectful, loving children.
"This isn't a tool for converting," Talley said. "I wrote a story that I would read, and that I felt like other mothers would enjoy reading."
When writing, Talley said she generally percolates a story idea in her mind for a few months, then writes a narrative synopsis, character sketches, character goals, story goal, descriptions of the settings, and any other details as they develop.
Talley writes scenes on index cards and continuously rearranges them until the flow of the story feels right. Then several drafts are worked through, then sent to the publisher for final edits.
"It takes me about a year or so from start to finish," she said, "depending on when the idea first strikes me. Sometimes I get an idea when I'm in the middle of another project, so I have had to learn how to juggle. I'm a wife and mom first, so I fit my writing in whenever I can."
So when not writing novels, updating her blog, or contributing to other publications, Talley spends her days like every other mother, which she considers her number one priority.
My family is extremely supportive," Talley said. "My husband picks up the slack at home when I have a deadline to meet. Writing wouldn't be possible without my family's support."
Talley sits on the Board of Directors for the writing group LDStorymakers. After current chairman Julie Coulter Bellon's term ends this summer, Talley will take over the leadership role.
"Rebecca balances her writing and her family with her responsibilities as the chair-elect of LDStorymakers and excels at all three," Bellon said. "Her compassionate nature just naturally flows into her writing and her characters are so real they become people you'd like to be friends with."
Of course, her books are as complex as she is, and they always have that little thread of optimism running through them, no matter what the issue, just like she does, Bellon said.
"The Upside of Down" is available locally at the Farmington LDS Bookstore and can be ordered through Hastings. It's also available online at www.cedarfort.com, as well as Amazon.com and BarnesandNoble.com.
"Besides writing," Talley said, "I enjoy dating my husband, playing with my kids, swimming in the ocean, and dancing to disco music while I clean the house — you know, normal mom-stuff."
Melissa Oyer: moyer@daily-times.com
Mother knows best
By Melissa Oyer The Daily Times
Posted: 03/07/2011 10:51:29 AM MST
FARMINGTON — For an author with 10 children, there's always something funny, serious, soothing, traumatic, dangerous, witty and, most of all, heartfelt to write about.
Rebecca Talley used all of these and more to emote the message in her latest book, "The Upside of Down."
"My family inspired me to write this book," Talley said. "When I shared some of my experiences with my friends and family, they encouraged me to write everything down so I decided to express my experiences within the framework of a novel so I could tweak things here and there to create a functional storyline."
"The Upside of Down" is a story centered around a woman raising a large family and trying to do the best she can despite trials that arise. The book helps mothers, or women in general, take hold of problems that arise throughout life.
A series of events happens to Natalie, the main character, that chip away at her faith. She begins to question her beliefs, her faith, and most of all, herself. After some tough-love and deep bouts of soul searching, she realizes that what has happened to her was meant to be.
Though this story is framed within a religious belief system, Talley thinks many busy mothers can identify with the normal, everyday dealings most people encounter, such as the infamous haircuts small children like to give themselves and/or their siblings, trying to conquer the ever-growing mountain of laundry, juggling kids' schedules, dealing with difficult family members, and attempting to raise respectful, loving children.
"This isn't a tool for converting," Talley said. "I wrote a story that I would read, and that I felt like other mothers would enjoy reading."
When writing, Talley said she generally percolates a story idea in her mind for a few months, then writes a narrative synopsis, character sketches, character goals, story goal, descriptions of the settings, and any other details as they develop.
Talley writes scenes on index cards and continuously rearranges them until the flow of the story feels right. Then several drafts are worked through, then sent to the publisher for final edits.
"It takes me about a year or so from start to finish," she said, "depending on when the idea first strikes me. Sometimes I get an idea when I'm in the middle of another project, so I have had to learn how to juggle. I'm a wife and mom first, so I fit my writing in whenever I can."
So when not writing novels, updating her blog, or contributing to other publications, Talley spends her days like every other mother, which she considers her number one priority.
My family is extremely supportive," Talley said. "My husband picks up the slack at home when I have a deadline to meet. Writing wouldn't be possible without my family's support."
Talley sits on the Board of Directors for the writing group LDStorymakers. After current chairman Julie Coulter Bellon's term ends this summer, Talley will take over the leadership role.
"Rebecca balances her writing and her family with her responsibilities as the chair-elect of LDStorymakers and excels at all three," Bellon said. "Her compassionate nature just naturally flows into her writing and her characters are so real they become people you'd like to be friends with."
Of course, her books are as complex as she is, and they always have that little thread of optimism running through them, no matter what the issue, just like she does, Bellon said.
"The Upside of Down" is available locally at the Farmington LDS Bookstore and can be ordered through Hastings. It's also available online at www.cedarfort.com, as well as Amazon.com and BarnesandNoble.com.
"Besides writing," Talley said, "I enjoy dating my husband, playing with my kids, swimming in the ocean, and dancing to disco music while I clean the house — you know, normal mom-stuff."
Melissa Oyer: moyer@daily-times.com
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Book Signings and Other Book News
I'm pleased to announce that I'll have two book signings for The Upside of Down at Pioneer Book, 858 S. State, Orem, UT on Friday, March 18th, 4:00-6:00 pm and again on Saturday, March 19th, 12:00-2:00 pm. I'd love to have you stop by and say hello. Pioneer Book has been very accommodating and I really appreciate the opportunity to do a book signing.
I recently discovered that my book is in the spring Seagull Book catalog. Yay! I'm so excited to see it in this catalog.
I've also been very pleased with reviews by Tristi Pinkston and Sheila Staley.
My book has also received some great reviews over at Goodreads.
Jennie Hansen reviewed my book here.
I'm very grateful for these wonderful reviews and for all of the support for this book. It means a lot to me. Thank you to all of you who have read it or are planning to read it.
I recently discovered that my book is in the spring Seagull Book catalog. Yay! I'm so excited to see it in this catalog.
I've also been very pleased with reviews by Tristi Pinkston and Sheila Staley.
My book has also received some great reviews over at Goodreads.
Jennie Hansen reviewed my book here.
I'm very grateful for these wonderful reviews and for all of the support for this book. It means a lot to me. Thank you to all of you who have read it or are planning to read it.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Interview, Giveaway, Guest Post
Three different blogs are featuring me and/or my book, including a giveaway, if you'd like a chance to win a copy.
If you want to learn a little more about me, check out A Story Book World.
Fire and Ice is featuring a chance to win a copy of my book and a guest post that I wrote about my son. This same guest post is at Parenting Partner.
Thanks!
If you want to learn a little more about me, check out A Story Book World.
Fire and Ice is featuring a chance to win a copy of my book and a guest post that I wrote about my son. This same guest post is at Parenting Partner.
Thanks!
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Book Signing Report
Left to right: Don Carey, Tristi Pinkston, Rebecca Talley, Daron Fraley
Last Saturday, Tristi Pinkston, Don Carey, Daron Fraley, and I had a book signing at The Book Table in Logan, UT. Super cool bookstore. I could've wandered through that store for hours. We had a lot of fun and even sold some books. We also visited other bookstores and libraries between Logan and Salt Lake and dropped off bookmarks. It was great to meet people and what's better than a bookstore for a group of authors? I had to control myself so I didn't buy all the books in the store. It was a successful and fun day!
Someone posted a very nice review of The Upside of Down on Amazon and over 200 people have added it to their shelves on Goodreads. Every time I look at the cover, it makes me want to have a newborn.
Thanks for all of the support!
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Winners of Giveaway
Wow! I'm blown away by the response to my giveaway on the Dreaming of Books Giveaway Hop. I'm so happy with the response and the support. Thank you so much for participating!!
Since the response was so wonderful, I've decide to give away 2 books. Yay!!
The winners, as selected by http://www.random.org/ are: Janelle and Ellie. I've sent you emails so you can send me your addresses and I'll get the books in the mail right away.
Thank you so much for all the great comments--I really appreciate it! This book is very close to my heart and I hope readers will enjoy it.
Since the response was so wonderful, I've decide to give away 2 books. Yay!!
The winners, as selected by http://www.random.org/ are: Janelle and Ellie. I've sent you emails so you can send me your addresses and I'll get the books in the mail right away.
Thank you so much for all the great comments--I really appreciate it! This book is very close to my heart and I hope readers will enjoy it.
Friday, January 14, 2011
Dreaming of Books Giveaway Hop
Welcome to the Dreaming of Books Giveaway Hop. This is the first time I've participated and I'm excited!
The giveaway I'm offering is a copy of my new book, The Upside of Down.
Here's the back cover copy:
"Hmmm," the doctor muttered.
Natalie wrinkled her forehead, almost afraid to ask, and said, "What does that mean?"
"You do know you're pregnant, right?"
Her breath caught in her throat. "Excuse me?"
"You're pregnant."
Her heartbeat thundered in her ears. "I'm what?"
Natalie Drake certainly has her hands full raising a large family, dealing with her difficult mother, and maintaining a relationship with her rebellious teenager. Just when things seem to be going smoothly, she finds out another unexpected surprise--she's going to have a baby. Faced with so many challenges, Natalie must learn to trust in a plan that isn't what she imagined and discover that every situation has an upside.
Rebecca Talley once again carefully crafts together a touching and heartfelt story that is sure to inspire you. With true-to-life characters and situations, The Upside of Down will reignite your faith and remind you of the importance of family.
To be entered, you can do one (or more) of the following and just leave a comment letting me know what you did. Each one counts as one entry into the giveaway contest.
1. Become a follower of my blog.
2. Sign up for my newsletter (I promise I won't spam you) located in the right column of my blog under my photo.
3. "Like" my author page on Facebook.
That's it. The hop runs through midnight January 17th. I'll draw a name on January 18th using http://www.random.org./ Be sure to check back on January 18th.
Have fun!
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Why I Love the UPS Guy
Well, I don't actually love him, but he is one of my favorite people for delivering this:
Super cool or what? Woo hoo!!
It's quite the surreal experience to hold my book in my hands. Even though this is my third novel, fourth book, it's still so amazing. To physically hold my words, my thoughts, my story in my hands is just incredible. The box was even delivered during a snowstorm so it was just like Christmas for me.
Excuse me while I go do the happy dance!
It's quite the surreal experience to hold my book in my hands. Even though this is my third novel, fourth book, it's still so amazing. To physically hold my words, my thoughts, my story in my hands is just incredible. The box was even delivered during a snowstorm so it was just like Christmas for me.
Excuse me while I go do the happy dance!
Friday, November 19, 2010
Pre-Order Contest Winner
Thanks so much to all of you who entered the contest. I sure appreciate your support and hope you will enjoy The Upside of Down. I wish you could all win!
I used www.random.org to randomly pick the winner. I'm happy to announce that . . . Rachael Anderson is the winner! Yay! Rachael, I'll be sending you a $50 gift card to Amazon.
Thank you again for entering the contest.
I used www.random.org to randomly pick the winner. I'm happy to announce that . . . Rachael Anderson is the winner! Yay! Rachael, I'll be sending you a $50 gift card to Amazon.
Thank you again for entering the contest.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
The Upside of Down: Chapter 1, Part 6
Here is Chapter 1 of my new novel. If it whets your appetite, you can pre-order it at Amazon. Those who pre-order The Upside of Down by November 18, 2010 can be entered into a drawing for a $50.00 gift certificate from Amazon. Details for the contest are here.
“How are you doing this evening, Sister Drake?” the bishop asked, drawing her focus to him.
“A little frazzled, but okay.” A nervous laugh fell out of her mouth while her heart thudded.
“I’ve spoken with your husband. I’d like to extend a call to you.”
“Me?” No wonder Spence was smiling. She looked back at Bishop Franken. “But I’ve only been teaching my Primary class for a few months.”
“I know,” the bishop said, his eyes piercing. “But we, as a bishopric, have prayed, and the Lord would like you to serve as Relief Society president.”
She stared at the bishop’s dark brown eyes. “Come again?” Relief Society president? He must be insane.
“I’d like to extend a call to you to serve as the Relief Society president.” He leaned forward, looking deeply into her eyes.
“Are you sure?” she whispered.
“Yes.”
Natalie sat back against the chair, her hands damp. She let out a sigh and looked over at Spence. Her eyes pleaded with him to object, but his face radiated delight.
“I’ve never served in the Relief Society.” She paused while both men stared at her.
“I don’t know what happens in there. I—I can’t even remember the last time I attended. I’ve only served in Young Women and Primary since I got married.” Surely this would convince the bishop that he had the wrong woman.
The bishop didn’t retract the call. In a soft but firm voice he asked, “Sister Drake, would you accept this calling from the Lord?”
Natalie drew in a long deep breath. Relying on her desire to do the right thing, she said quietly, “If that’s where the Lord would like me to serve, then . . . yes.” Her eyes stung with emotion. “I will accept the calling.” She could hardly believe the words as they escaped her mouth.
Spence’s eyes glistened as he reached over and squeezed her hand.
“Thank you,” the bishop said.
She gave a faint smile, feeling like her face might crumble. “You’re absolutely sure?” Natalie asked, knowing the answer but still in a state of disbelief.
“Yes. We all had a strong witness that you should serve in this call¬ing.” He studied her for a moment. “The sisters in the ward need you.”
Her eyes widened. “They need me?” Natalie repeated the words in her mind, clutching onto Spence’s hand.
“Yes,” the bishop said.
She raised her eyebrows, her throat suddenly thick. “I’ll take your word for it.”
Her mind spun in a thousand different directions, trying to absorb the implications of her new calling. “Your husband has agreed to sup¬port you. It will be busy and intense at times, but the Lord will bless you as you dedicate yourself to Him.”
Spence nodded. Natalie reluctantly let go of Spence’s hand when the bishop extended his hand to shake hers. He shook hands with Spence and then turned back to Natalie.
“We’ll set up some training for you. You’ll need to pray about the sisters in the ward and submit names for your presidency. We’d like to sustain you a week from
Sunday.”
Natalie stood and numbly followed Spence out the door and into the late-winter evening, cold air licking at her cheeks. Sitting in the car, she stared ahead of her, lost in her thoughts. Her head pounded with so much pressure it felt like it might explode.
That's the end of Chapter 1. How did you like it? If you decide to pre-order it, be sure to enter the contest here.
Thanks for reading. I hope you enjoyed it!
“How are you doing this evening, Sister Drake?” the bishop asked, drawing her focus to him.
“A little frazzled, but okay.” A nervous laugh fell out of her mouth while her heart thudded.
“I’ve spoken with your husband. I’d like to extend a call to you.”
“Me?” No wonder Spence was smiling. She looked back at Bishop Franken. “But I’ve only been teaching my Primary class for a few months.”
“I know,” the bishop said, his eyes piercing. “But we, as a bishopric, have prayed, and the Lord would like you to serve as Relief Society president.”
She stared at the bishop’s dark brown eyes. “Come again?” Relief Society president? He must be insane.
“I’d like to extend a call to you to serve as the Relief Society president.” He leaned forward, looking deeply into her eyes.
“Are you sure?” she whispered.
“Yes.”
Natalie sat back against the chair, her hands damp. She let out a sigh and looked over at Spence. Her eyes pleaded with him to object, but his face radiated delight.
“I’ve never served in the Relief Society.” She paused while both men stared at her.
“I don’t know what happens in there. I—I can’t even remember the last time I attended. I’ve only served in Young Women and Primary since I got married.” Surely this would convince the bishop that he had the wrong woman.
The bishop didn’t retract the call. In a soft but firm voice he asked, “Sister Drake, would you accept this calling from the Lord?”
Natalie drew in a long deep breath. Relying on her desire to do the right thing, she said quietly, “If that’s where the Lord would like me to serve, then . . . yes.” Her eyes stung with emotion. “I will accept the calling.” She could hardly believe the words as they escaped her mouth.
Spence’s eyes glistened as he reached over and squeezed her hand.
“Thank you,” the bishop said.
She gave a faint smile, feeling like her face might crumble. “You’re absolutely sure?” Natalie asked, knowing the answer but still in a state of disbelief.
“Yes. We all had a strong witness that you should serve in this call¬ing.” He studied her for a moment. “The sisters in the ward need you.”
Her eyes widened. “They need me?” Natalie repeated the words in her mind, clutching onto Spence’s hand.
“Yes,” the bishop said.
She raised her eyebrows, her throat suddenly thick. “I’ll take your word for it.”
Her mind spun in a thousand different directions, trying to absorb the implications of her new calling. “Your husband has agreed to sup¬port you. It will be busy and intense at times, but the Lord will bless you as you dedicate yourself to Him.”
Spence nodded. Natalie reluctantly let go of Spence’s hand when the bishop extended his hand to shake hers. He shook hands with Spence and then turned back to Natalie.
“We’ll set up some training for you. You’ll need to pray about the sisters in the ward and submit names for your presidency. We’d like to sustain you a week from
Sunday.”
Natalie stood and numbly followed Spence out the door and into the late-winter evening, cold air licking at her cheeks. Sitting in the car, she stared ahead of her, lost in her thoughts. Her head pounded with so much pressure it felt like it might explode.
That's the end of Chapter 1. How did you like it? If you decide to pre-order it, be sure to enter the contest here.
Thanks for reading. I hope you enjoyed it!
Monday, November 15, 2010
The Upside of Down: Chapter 1, Part 5
Here is Chapter 1 of my new novel. If it whets your appetite, you can pre-order it at Amazon. Those who pre-order The Upside of Down by November 18, 2010 can be entered into a drawing for a $50.00 gift certificate from Amazon. Details for the contest are here.
A few moments later, Laura stood in the doorway holding the handset. “Mom, it’s for you.”
Natalie whispered, “I’m a little busy right now.” She pointed to Bradley, who was draped in suds. “Who is it?”
Laura shrugged. “It’s a man.”
“Fine.” Natalie wiped her hands on her well-worn black sweats and grabbed the phone.
“Sister Drake?” Her stomach tightened.
“Bishop, I’m so sorry. I completely forgot. We’re on our way, but it’ll take us at least twenty-five minutes.”
“I have another interview I can take care of. I’ll see you in a bit,” the bishop said.
Natalie hung up the phone. “Laura!” she yelled from the bathroom.
“Yeah?”
“Please finish bathing Bradley,” Natalie said.
Laura stood in the doorway of the bathroom, a large textbook in hand. “I have a ton of homework.”
“I need your help. I have to go to the church.” Natalie mentally chastised herself for being so forgetful.
“Why?”
“I’m not exactly sure. But I’m late. Where’s your dad?”
Laura shrugged. She placed her book on the floor, bent over the bathtub, and patted Bradley on the head. “I’ll wash your hair, okay?”
Natalie raced down the hall. She peeked into each bedroom as she passed. “Spence?”
No response.
She spotted Mariah in her bedroom. “Can you find Daddy and tell him I need him right away.”
“Okay.” Mariah ran away calling for Spence.
Natalie yanked a black skirt and bright pink blouse out of her closet. “I cannot believe I did this.”
Spence entered the bedroom. “What’s wrong?”
“We have an appointment with the bishop.” Natalie glanced at the clock radio on the nightstand. “About twenty minutes ago.”
“Huh?”
“Brother Lakes called earlier and made the appointment. I got so busy with dinner and bathing Bradley that it slipped my mind.” Nata¬lie’s fingers fumbled as she tried to button her blouse. “Bishop Franken is waiting for us.”
Spence stepped over to his closet and grabbed a white shirt. “Did he say what it’s about?”
“I have no idea. I’m so embarrassed.” She finished buttoning her blouse.
During the ride into Farmington, Natalie tossed the reasons through her mind of why they were meeting with the bishop. “Do you know anything?”
Spence shook his head. “I’d guess it’s for a new calling.”
“But both of us have only had our callings for a short time.”
“What else could it be?”
“I don’t know.” Natalie applied some mascara and brushed her hair. “I can’t believe I forgot about this appointment. I’m so spacey lately.”
Spence gave a big smile. “Do I have anything in my teeth?”
“Nope. Perfect as usual. Though you still have some unruly hair in the back.” She patted down a clump of his hair.
They pulled into the church parking lot. Natalie checked her hair one more time and fluffed it before exiting the car. She hoped the appointment would be short and simple so she could get back home and put the kids to bed.
Inside the foyer of the building, the bishop, a short man with round glasses, stood at the top of the stairs just outside his office.
Natalie gazed up at the bishop and said, “I’m so sorry we’re late.” The embarrassment rose to her cheeks.
“No problem. I finished my other interview and had a bit of paper work. Brother Drake, may I have a word with you first? Sister Drake, we’ll only be a moment.”
Natalie sat on the upholstered couch at the foot of the stairs. The soft fluorescent lighting bounced off the cream-colored walls. Plum-colored carpet lined the entryway and the stairs leading down to the family history library. Her Primary classroom was across the cultural hall. She tried to imagine the large three-level building as the stake center many years ago when the stake included wards in New Mexico and Colorado. Now it housed three wards in Farmington, New Mexico, one of which included her rural La Plata ward.
Natalie bit at her fingernail, a nasty habit she’d picked up as a kid. Who could blame her after growing up with her mother? She placed her hands on her lap and laced them together. What was the bishop discussing with Spence? A calling? For him? Her?
Time dragged on while she waited. She checked her watch. A queasy feeling tempted her to bite her nails again, but she resisted.
She checked her watch again. How long could this take? Finally, after a few more minutes that felt like hours, the door opened, and Bishop Franken invited
Natalie into the office. Natalie sat in a chair opposite the bishop’s desk. She glanced at Spence to see if she could read his expression. He gave her a reassuring smile.
Be sure to check back tomorrow for the final installment . . .
A few moments later, Laura stood in the doorway holding the handset. “Mom, it’s for you.”
Natalie whispered, “I’m a little busy right now.” She pointed to Bradley, who was draped in suds. “Who is it?”
Laura shrugged. “It’s a man.”
“Fine.” Natalie wiped her hands on her well-worn black sweats and grabbed the phone.
“Sister Drake?” Her stomach tightened.
“Bishop, I’m so sorry. I completely forgot. We’re on our way, but it’ll take us at least twenty-five minutes.”
“I have another interview I can take care of. I’ll see you in a bit,” the bishop said.
Natalie hung up the phone. “Laura!” she yelled from the bathroom.
“Yeah?”
“Please finish bathing Bradley,” Natalie said.
Laura stood in the doorway of the bathroom, a large textbook in hand. “I have a ton of homework.”
“I need your help. I have to go to the church.” Natalie mentally chastised herself for being so forgetful.
“Why?”
“I’m not exactly sure. But I’m late. Where’s your dad?”
Laura shrugged. She placed her book on the floor, bent over the bathtub, and patted Bradley on the head. “I’ll wash your hair, okay?”
Natalie raced down the hall. She peeked into each bedroom as she passed. “Spence?”
No response.
She spotted Mariah in her bedroom. “Can you find Daddy and tell him I need him right away.”
“Okay.” Mariah ran away calling for Spence.
Natalie yanked a black skirt and bright pink blouse out of her closet. “I cannot believe I did this.”
Spence entered the bedroom. “What’s wrong?”
“We have an appointment with the bishop.” Natalie glanced at the clock radio on the nightstand. “About twenty minutes ago.”
“Huh?”
“Brother Lakes called earlier and made the appointment. I got so busy with dinner and bathing Bradley that it slipped my mind.” Nata¬lie’s fingers fumbled as she tried to button her blouse. “Bishop Franken is waiting for us.”
Spence stepped over to his closet and grabbed a white shirt. “Did he say what it’s about?”
“I have no idea. I’m so embarrassed.” She finished buttoning her blouse.
During the ride into Farmington, Natalie tossed the reasons through her mind of why they were meeting with the bishop. “Do you know anything?”
Spence shook his head. “I’d guess it’s for a new calling.”
“But both of us have only had our callings for a short time.”
“What else could it be?”
“I don’t know.” Natalie applied some mascara and brushed her hair. “I can’t believe I forgot about this appointment. I’m so spacey lately.”
Spence gave a big smile. “Do I have anything in my teeth?”
“Nope. Perfect as usual. Though you still have some unruly hair in the back.” She patted down a clump of his hair.
They pulled into the church parking lot. Natalie checked her hair one more time and fluffed it before exiting the car. She hoped the appointment would be short and simple so she could get back home and put the kids to bed.
Inside the foyer of the building, the bishop, a short man with round glasses, stood at the top of the stairs just outside his office.
Natalie gazed up at the bishop and said, “I’m so sorry we’re late.” The embarrassment rose to her cheeks.
“No problem. I finished my other interview and had a bit of paper work. Brother Drake, may I have a word with you first? Sister Drake, we’ll only be a moment.”
Natalie sat on the upholstered couch at the foot of the stairs. The soft fluorescent lighting bounced off the cream-colored walls. Plum-colored carpet lined the entryway and the stairs leading down to the family history library. Her Primary classroom was across the cultural hall. She tried to imagine the large three-level building as the stake center many years ago when the stake included wards in New Mexico and Colorado. Now it housed three wards in Farmington, New Mexico, one of which included her rural La Plata ward.
Natalie bit at her fingernail, a nasty habit she’d picked up as a kid. Who could blame her after growing up with her mother? She placed her hands on her lap and laced them together. What was the bishop discussing with Spence? A calling? For him? Her?
Time dragged on while she waited. She checked her watch. A queasy feeling tempted her to bite her nails again, but she resisted.
She checked her watch again. How long could this take? Finally, after a few more minutes that felt like hours, the door opened, and Bishop Franken invited
Natalie into the office. Natalie sat in a chair opposite the bishop’s desk. She glanced at Spence to see if she could read his expression. He gave her a reassuring smile.
Be sure to check back tomorrow for the final installment . . .
Saturday, November 13, 2010
The Upside of Down: Chapter 1, Part 4
Here is Chapter 1 of my new novel. If it whets your appetite, you can pre-order it at Amazon. Those who pre-order The Upside of Down by November 18, 2010 can be entered into a drawing for a $50.00 gift certificate from Amazon. Details for the contest are here.
Natalie unlocked the front door to let Spence into the house. He stepped into the entryway, his sandy hair windswept, and Natalie attempted to smooth it back into place. Spence pulled her into a hug and then gently kissed her.
“Daddy!” Mariah squealed. She and Bradley both rushed their father, pushing Natalie out of the way.
Spence embraced Mariah and then picked up a giggling Bradley. “How’s my little man?”
Bradley let out a few more giggles. Spence set him down, and he ran off down the hallway.
“Hi, Dad,” Justin said when he rounded the corner from the living room. He gave his dad a hug, his light brown hair peeking out from under his Arizona Diamondbacks baseball cap, reminding Natalie he was due for a haircut.
“Something sure smells good. What’s for dinner?” Spence said as he and Natalie walked into the kitchen while Justin and Mariah trailed in behind them.
“Lasagna,” Natalie said.
“My favorite,” he said with the familiar sparkle in his pale blue eyes. He leaned against the beige-tiled countertop in the kitchen.
“Every dinner is your favorite, Daddy,” Mariah said. She was wear¬ing a pink tutu and a glittering crown.
“Are you a ballerina today?”
Mariah placed her hands on her hips. “No, Daddy, I’m a princess.”
“Oh, I see.”
She smiled and turned abruptly, her long braid whipping around her head as she ran off after Bradley.
“Has Ryan fed the animals?” Spence asked.
“He’s not home from practice yet, but he should be here in a few minutes. The Kings picked him up tonight. Andrea called and said she’d be home soon too.” Natalie opened the oven door to check the lasagna. The blast of hot, garlic-spiked air made her blink. She pulled the lasagna out and set it on top of the stove. “Dinner’s almost ready. Time to set the table.”
“I think I need another kiss.” Spence swept Natalie into his arms and gave her a long kiss.
“Eewww. That’s so disgusting,” Laura said from the dining room table. “Do you have to do that? I’m trying to do my homework.” She shook her head, and her dirty-blonde hair fell around her shoulders.
“You have one hot mama,” Spence said. He gave Natalie another squeeze. She enjoyed his playful, romantic side. Even more, she enjoyed Laura’s protests.
Laura overacted a dry-heaving motion. “You’re so embarrassing. The kids at school don’t even act like you two.”
“Aren’t you glad we love each other so much? You wouldn’t be here otherwise.” Natalie moved her eyebrows up and down.
“Okay, that’s gross. No more details.”
“What’s gross?” Justin asked, sitting at the table.
Laura rolled her blue-green eyes. “Nevermind.” She gathered up her books and headed down the stairs to her bedroom.
“Dinner is in five minutes,” Natalie called after her.
“How was your day?” Spence asked.
“The doctor’s office was incredibly fun, as usual. We waited for a long time. Bradley rolled all over the floor, went through all the draw¬ers, and then climbed up and jumped off the examining table. How such a cherubic-looking child can be so mischievous is beyond me.”
“I’m sorry I couldn’t help. I had one meeting after another and couldn’t get away this morning.”
“No worries. Both the kids got their immunizations.” Natalie tossed the salad inside a large red bowl. “Why so many meetings?”
“Discussions about some new legislation and how it may impact the company.” Spence reached over and grabbed a cookie from the cup¬board.
“Should we worry about your job?”
“I don’t think so.” He snatched another cookie.
Natalie gave him a look. “You can’t snack on cookies when dinner’s ready. You’re as bad as the kids.” She turned to Justin, who was still sit¬ting at the table, absorbed in playing his Nintendo DS, an extravagant gift from her mother. “Go wash up for dinner and tell the other kids it’s ready.”
“Huh?” Justin didn’t look up from his game.
“Justin,” she said in a loud voice.
“What?”
“I’m going to take that thing away.” She took a few steps toward him, intent on taking the handheld device and disposing of it. She dis¬liked Justin’s obsession with it, and she was still angry with her mother for giving it to him against her wishes.
“Okay, okay, I’ll turn it off.” He slipped it into his pocket.
“I better not see it the rest of the night. Now, go wash your hands and tell the other kids that dinner’s ready.”
Justin scurried out of the room.
“How was the rest of your day?” Spence asked.
“I took Bradley and Mariah to lunch and witnessed a disturbing scene that hasn’t left me. A young man treated his wife and his little daughter with such contempt. He was downright mean to them.”
“What happened?”
Natalie grabbed some bottles of salad dressing from the refrigerator. “His little girl had Down syndrome, and he was calling her names. It broke my heart. His poor wife seemed so scared.” She placed the bottles on the counter.
“Did you say anything?”
Natalie nodded. “He told me it was none of my business, among other things.” Reliving the experience brought back the fear she’d experienced at the restaurant. “I can’t seem to get it out of my head. I don’t know why it’s affected me so much.”
“Because you’re a compassionate and caring person. That’s one of the reasons why I love you so much.” Spence ran his finger along her cheek.
“Even after all these years? With all of my gray hairs?”
“What gray?”
“If I didn’t pluck them all out, there’d be plenty.”
“You’re as beautiful today as you were twenty-three years ago.”
Beautiful wasn’t how she’d describe herself. Exhausted, bedraggled, wrinkly, frumpy—those were much more descriptive terms. “I think you need your eyes checked.”
“You are. And I love you.” He squeezed her around the waist.
“I love you too.”
The front door opened, and Natalie’s tall, lean son, Ryan, walked into the kitchen. He dropped his backpack with a thud. “Yes! I love lasagna.”
“Hurry and wash your hands for dinner,” Natalie said.
Ryan returned from the bathroom, and the rest of the kids filed into the dining room. After the usual argument of who would sit next to Natalie, Bradley said the blessing, as he did for nearly every meal. Everyone began eating.
“How was soccer today, Ryan?” Spence asked.
“Good. Coach says I’ll probably be a starter for the next game.” He piled lasagna on his plate and then reached for a piece of garlic bread.
“You’ll need to feed the animals after dinner. Be sure to take the slop out to the pigs and check on the horses’ water,” Spence said.
The front door flew open. Andrea shouted from the entryway, “Sorry I’m late. I had to stay longer than I thought. Mmmm, smells de-lish.”
Andrea found her seat at the table.
“How was school?” Natalie asked.
“Interesting,” Andrea said.
“Must be about that guy,” Laura said with a smirk that exposed her braces.
Andrea’s blue-gray eyes lit up, and a smile appeared her face.
“What’s this?” Natalie asked.
“His name is Tristan. He’s Ali’s cousin. He’s living with them until he finds an apartment, and he’s going to San Juan College,” Andrea said.
“Ali who?”
“We’re on student council together. I’ve talked about her before.” Andrea flipped her long auburn hair behind her shoulder.
“What about this boy?” Spence asked.
“Dark, thick hair and green eyes. He’s from Grants, and he’s almost twenty-one. I wish he’d ask me out,” Andrea said.
“Is he a member of the Church?” Natalie handed the bowl of salad to Justin.
“No, but there’s no one to date from our ward. It’d only be for fun. Stop worrying. I’m sure he’ll never ask me out, anyway.”
After dinner, according to the job chart, Laura cleared the table, Justin unloaded and reloaded the dishwasher, and Ryan wiped down the table.
Natalie grabbed hold of Bradley. “I think you wore more of your dinner than anything. How about a bath?”
Natalie and Bradley ascended the stairs together, one step at a time. They walked into the bathroom, and Natalie laid Bradley on the dark green bathroom rug to remove his diaper. “Remember, potty in the diaper? No, no.” Natalie shook her head. “Potty in the toilet? Yes, yes.” She nodded. “Let’s make a deal. I’ll pay you one million dollars if you potty train. How does that sound?”
Bradley nodded, his blond waves bobbing. “Potty in toilet.”
“That’s right.” Natalie finished filling the tub and was placing Brad¬ley in the mound of bubbles when the phone rang.
Be sure to check back Monday for the next installment . . .
Natalie unlocked the front door to let Spence into the house. He stepped into the entryway, his sandy hair windswept, and Natalie attempted to smooth it back into place. Spence pulled her into a hug and then gently kissed her.
“Daddy!” Mariah squealed. She and Bradley both rushed their father, pushing Natalie out of the way.
Spence embraced Mariah and then picked up a giggling Bradley. “How’s my little man?”
Bradley let out a few more giggles. Spence set him down, and he ran off down the hallway.
“Hi, Dad,” Justin said when he rounded the corner from the living room. He gave his dad a hug, his light brown hair peeking out from under his Arizona Diamondbacks baseball cap, reminding Natalie he was due for a haircut.
“Something sure smells good. What’s for dinner?” Spence said as he and Natalie walked into the kitchen while Justin and Mariah trailed in behind them.
“Lasagna,” Natalie said.
“My favorite,” he said with the familiar sparkle in his pale blue eyes. He leaned against the beige-tiled countertop in the kitchen.
“Every dinner is your favorite, Daddy,” Mariah said. She was wear¬ing a pink tutu and a glittering crown.
“Are you a ballerina today?”
Mariah placed her hands on her hips. “No, Daddy, I’m a princess.”
“Oh, I see.”
She smiled and turned abruptly, her long braid whipping around her head as she ran off after Bradley.
“Has Ryan fed the animals?” Spence asked.
“He’s not home from practice yet, but he should be here in a few minutes. The Kings picked him up tonight. Andrea called and said she’d be home soon too.” Natalie opened the oven door to check the lasagna. The blast of hot, garlic-spiked air made her blink. She pulled the lasagna out and set it on top of the stove. “Dinner’s almost ready. Time to set the table.”
“I think I need another kiss.” Spence swept Natalie into his arms and gave her a long kiss.
“Eewww. That’s so disgusting,” Laura said from the dining room table. “Do you have to do that? I’m trying to do my homework.” She shook her head, and her dirty-blonde hair fell around her shoulders.
“You have one hot mama,” Spence said. He gave Natalie another squeeze. She enjoyed his playful, romantic side. Even more, she enjoyed Laura’s protests.
Laura overacted a dry-heaving motion. “You’re so embarrassing. The kids at school don’t even act like you two.”
“Aren’t you glad we love each other so much? You wouldn’t be here otherwise.” Natalie moved her eyebrows up and down.
“Okay, that’s gross. No more details.”
“What’s gross?” Justin asked, sitting at the table.
Laura rolled her blue-green eyes. “Nevermind.” She gathered up her books and headed down the stairs to her bedroom.
“Dinner is in five minutes,” Natalie called after her.
“How was your day?” Spence asked.
“The doctor’s office was incredibly fun, as usual. We waited for a long time. Bradley rolled all over the floor, went through all the draw¬ers, and then climbed up and jumped off the examining table. How such a cherubic-looking child can be so mischievous is beyond me.”
“I’m sorry I couldn’t help. I had one meeting after another and couldn’t get away this morning.”
“No worries. Both the kids got their immunizations.” Natalie tossed the salad inside a large red bowl. “Why so many meetings?”
“Discussions about some new legislation and how it may impact the company.” Spence reached over and grabbed a cookie from the cup¬board.
“Should we worry about your job?”
“I don’t think so.” He snatched another cookie.
Natalie gave him a look. “You can’t snack on cookies when dinner’s ready. You’re as bad as the kids.” She turned to Justin, who was still sit¬ting at the table, absorbed in playing his Nintendo DS, an extravagant gift from her mother. “Go wash up for dinner and tell the other kids it’s ready.”
“Huh?” Justin didn’t look up from his game.
“Justin,” she said in a loud voice.
“What?”
“I’m going to take that thing away.” She took a few steps toward him, intent on taking the handheld device and disposing of it. She dis¬liked Justin’s obsession with it, and she was still angry with her mother for giving it to him against her wishes.
“Okay, okay, I’ll turn it off.” He slipped it into his pocket.
“I better not see it the rest of the night. Now, go wash your hands and tell the other kids that dinner’s ready.”
Justin scurried out of the room.
“How was the rest of your day?” Spence asked.
“I took Bradley and Mariah to lunch and witnessed a disturbing scene that hasn’t left me. A young man treated his wife and his little daughter with such contempt. He was downright mean to them.”
“What happened?”
Natalie grabbed some bottles of salad dressing from the refrigerator. “His little girl had Down syndrome, and he was calling her names. It broke my heart. His poor wife seemed so scared.” She placed the bottles on the counter.
“Did you say anything?”
Natalie nodded. “He told me it was none of my business, among other things.” Reliving the experience brought back the fear she’d experienced at the restaurant. “I can’t seem to get it out of my head. I don’t know why it’s affected me so much.”
“Because you’re a compassionate and caring person. That’s one of the reasons why I love you so much.” Spence ran his finger along her cheek.
“Even after all these years? With all of my gray hairs?”
“What gray?”
“If I didn’t pluck them all out, there’d be plenty.”
“You’re as beautiful today as you were twenty-three years ago.”
Beautiful wasn’t how she’d describe herself. Exhausted, bedraggled, wrinkly, frumpy—those were much more descriptive terms. “I think you need your eyes checked.”
“You are. And I love you.” He squeezed her around the waist.
“I love you too.”
The front door opened, and Natalie’s tall, lean son, Ryan, walked into the kitchen. He dropped his backpack with a thud. “Yes! I love lasagna.”
“Hurry and wash your hands for dinner,” Natalie said.
Ryan returned from the bathroom, and the rest of the kids filed into the dining room. After the usual argument of who would sit next to Natalie, Bradley said the blessing, as he did for nearly every meal. Everyone began eating.
“How was soccer today, Ryan?” Spence asked.
“Good. Coach says I’ll probably be a starter for the next game.” He piled lasagna on his plate and then reached for a piece of garlic bread.
“You’ll need to feed the animals after dinner. Be sure to take the slop out to the pigs and check on the horses’ water,” Spence said.
The front door flew open. Andrea shouted from the entryway, “Sorry I’m late. I had to stay longer than I thought. Mmmm, smells de-lish.”
Andrea found her seat at the table.
“How was school?” Natalie asked.
“Interesting,” Andrea said.
“Must be about that guy,” Laura said with a smirk that exposed her braces.
Andrea’s blue-gray eyes lit up, and a smile appeared her face.
“What’s this?” Natalie asked.
“His name is Tristan. He’s Ali’s cousin. He’s living with them until he finds an apartment, and he’s going to San Juan College,” Andrea said.
“Ali who?”
“We’re on student council together. I’ve talked about her before.” Andrea flipped her long auburn hair behind her shoulder.
“What about this boy?” Spence asked.
“Dark, thick hair and green eyes. He’s from Grants, and he’s almost twenty-one. I wish he’d ask me out,” Andrea said.
“Is he a member of the Church?” Natalie handed the bowl of salad to Justin.
“No, but there’s no one to date from our ward. It’d only be for fun. Stop worrying. I’m sure he’ll never ask me out, anyway.”
After dinner, according to the job chart, Laura cleared the table, Justin unloaded and reloaded the dishwasher, and Ryan wiped down the table.
Natalie grabbed hold of Bradley. “I think you wore more of your dinner than anything. How about a bath?”
Natalie and Bradley ascended the stairs together, one step at a time. They walked into the bathroom, and Natalie laid Bradley on the dark green bathroom rug to remove his diaper. “Remember, potty in the diaper? No, no.” Natalie shook her head. “Potty in the toilet? Yes, yes.” She nodded. “Let’s make a deal. I’ll pay you one million dollars if you potty train. How does that sound?”
Bradley nodded, his blond waves bobbing. “Potty in toilet.”
“That’s right.” Natalie finished filling the tub and was placing Brad¬ley in the mound of bubbles when the phone rang.
Be sure to check back Monday for the next installment . . .
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