I would like to explain how this came to fruition. Hubby and I were having a discussion about the old days, (for the young’ens reading this..a little history lesson) but before the dark age. When Sundays were special and had traditions and rituals. Sunday mornings Church, come home to a big gravy (sauce) cooking on the stove, a big Sunday dinner, then either off to visit relatives/friends or wait for relatives/friends to drop by. We would spend the afternoon sitting around the table, talking, catching up, having coffee, pizza, calzones, etc etc, dessert. And now, how sad, all those traditions are gone. And then I got to thinking, why not have something similar here on my blog. This past year, I have met so many amazing and wonderful people through blogging, and how I am in awe of what they do and accomplish. How much respect I have for them, for their honesty, integrity, credibility and so enjoy when a bit of their personality shines through. So every Sunday, here at my place, the coffee will be on, the dessert is on the table and friends will be stopping by. And I will be rolling out the red carpet for my Sunday Shining Star Blogger guest.

 

*How and what made you decide on the name of your blog?
It was my mom’s doll that she got off a Valentine’s Candy Box from my dad that she saved all these years. Because it was dressed in red she took it out only at Christmas time, and because I love Christmas and my nickname is Dolly, but that’s another story.

*What would you say is the main content of your blog?
My kids, my grandkids and my hubby and his music.

*If books, what genres do you mostly read?
I like Stephen King, mythology, wizards, fairies, and the like.

*How often do you post?
I try to do it every day, but I’ve got therapy three times a week now, and it’s been taking a lot of out of me.
(addendum: she means physical therapy but……….lol)
*What are some of the things that you love about blogging?
 Making new interesting friends. I totally love when everyone comes to my meme and plays along. “Monday’s Music Moves Me”! Everyone pics a song and Posts in accordance to whatever theme it is for that week. Love music!!! I play keys and the accordion. I also totally love give-aways doing them and winning them!!!

*What are some of the negatives?
DON’T GET ME STARTED! No, just kidding! There is one thing though. Some people take things the wrong way. You cannot add a tone of voice to your words at least I don’t know how. Some people cannot tell when you’re kidding. That gets me into trouble. I’m always in trouble. I was born in trouble. lol The only other one that stands out is I cannot get to all the blogs I want too in a day. There’s not enough time, and e-mail! OMG That has to be the biggest negative. I cannot answer all the e-mail I get. I know we get so much because when we join a give-away that’s one of the entry requirements, so you keep adding and adding and adding to your e-mail thus we get more mail then SANTA!

*Name 1-3 favorite items/postings that you have/do on your blog?
**NOT SURE WHAT YOU MEAN HERE.

*Any advice you would give to new bloggers?
 Do not get discouraged. It’s really a lot of fun, but there is a lot to learn. Don’t start treating blogging as work. Blog for the fun.

*What draws you to follow someone’s blog?
Oh hells bells! I follow everybody. Well, unless there’s too much vulgarity or a bunch of stuff on it I don’t understand.

*Do you have any “pet peeves” that other bloggers do?
The only one I can think of is I just don’t think it’s right when someone doesn’t leave a comment when signing a linky. How long does it take to say thank you. You know like when we post our give-aways for example. They have over 100 entries and seven comments??? Nah, sorry I don’t think it’s right.

*Would you please share 5-7 things about the person behind the screen so that we get to know the “real” you!!
The real me, huh! I love to cook. Baking is not my forte.
 I love to crochet, but I don’t do it very well.
People say I talk too much… I know you do and don’t tell me you don’t because I know I do BUT did you every ask yourself why?
I have worked all my life. I was always around people, and now I’m home alone and not by choice. I don’t have many friends, so when someone does call… I rest my case.
I try to keep peace in the family (just like my mom use too guess I picked up where she left off), and that doesn’t work very well sometimes.
I’ve written a book that not too many people have read, but never had it published.
I totally LOVE ice cream, and
I love to dance. Years ago I was a professional dancer, but we won’t go there.

*Any other info you would like to share.
My daughter is NightOwlMama and is going to California next week on a blog convention I guess you call it, and I’m so happy for her. She’s going to see some cartoon movie, opening night red carpet thing. I don’t know that much about it, but I know she’s extremely happy, so I’m happy!

P.S. Why didn’t you pick somebody more interesting. I’m boring. —yawn!!! luv ya, Dolly

I think you all can read between the lines to see that she has a huge, warm, caring and genuine heart.  Her family and friends are her priority.  She does a lot of product giveaways and just recently was asked to do a book review!!!  Talk about a panic attack.  The emails were flying back and forth. And I have to say, she did a phenomenal job, so much so that the author has asked her to read and review the sequel so I am hoping that she will one day become part of our book community.  She has faced many of life’s challenges but always finds the humor in it to get her through….attitude is everything and she has a lot of it.  She is one special lady…that is why she is my Shining Star.  Please stop by her place and tell her that her little sister sent her.  And oh…..btw…she is also of Italian heritage so there will be plenty of food!!!  Thank you Big Sis for being you and for caring so much about me.

I would like to explain how this came to fruition. Hubby and I were having a discussion about the old days, (for the young’ens reading this..a little history lesson) but before the dark age. When Sundays were special and had traditions and rituals. Sunday mornings Church, come home to a big gravy (sauce) cooking on the stove, a big Sunday dinner, then either off to visit relatives/friends or wait for relatives/friends to drop by. We would spend the afternoon sitting around the table, talking, catching up, having coffee, pizza, calzones, etc etc, dessert. And now, how sad, all those traditions are gone. And then I got to thinking, why not have something similar here on my blog. This past year, I have met so many amazing and wonderful people through blogging, and how I am in awe of what they do and accomplish. How much respect I have for them, for their honesty, integrity, credibility and so enjoy when a bit of their personality shines through. So every Sunday, here at my place, the coffee will be on, the dessert is on the table and friends will be stopping by. And I will be rolling out the red carpet for my Sunday Shining Star Blogger guest.

 

*How and what made you decide on the name of your blog?
It was my mom’s doll that she got off a Valentine’s Candy Box from my dad that she saved all these years. Because it was dressed in red she took it out only at Christmas time, and because I love Christmas and my nickname is Dolly, but that’s another story.

*What would you say is the main content of your blog?
My kids, my grandkids and my hubby and his music.

*If books, what genres do you mostly read?
I like Stephen King, mythology, wizards, fairies, and the like.

*How often do you post?
I try to do it every day, but I’ve got therapy three times a week now, and it’s been taking a lot of out of me.
(addendum: she means physical therapy but……….lol)
*What are some of the things that you love about blogging?
 Making new interesting friends. I totally love when everyone comes to my meme and plays along. “Monday’s Music Moves Me”! Everyone pics a song and Posts in accordance to whatever theme it is for that week. Love music!!! I play keys and the accordion. I also totally love give-aways doing them and winning them!!!

*What are some of the negatives?
DON’T GET ME STARTED! No, just kidding! There is one thing though. Some people take things the wrong way. You cannot add a tone of voice to your words at least I don’t know how. Some people cannot tell when you’re kidding. That gets me into trouble. I’m always in trouble. I was born in trouble. lol The only other one that stands out is I cannot get to all the blogs I want too in a day. There’s not enough time, and e-mail! OMG That has to be the biggest negative. I cannot answer all the e-mail I get. I know we get so much because when we join a give-away that’s one of the entry requirements, so you keep adding and adding and adding to your e-mail thus we get more mail then SANTA!

*Name 1-3 favorite items/postings that you have/do on your blog?
**NOT SURE WHAT YOU MEAN HERE.

*Any advice you would give to new bloggers?
 Do not get discouraged. It’s really a lot of fun, but there is a lot to learn. Don’t start treating blogging as work. Blog for the fun.

*What draws you to follow someone’s blog?
Oh hells bells! I follow everybody. Well, unless there’s too much vulgarity or a bunch of stuff on it I don’t understand.

*Do you have any “pet peeves” that other bloggers do?
The only one I can think of is I just don’t think it’s right when someone doesn’t leave a comment when signing a linky. How long does it take to say thank you. You know like when we post our give-aways for example. They have over 100 entries and seven comments??? Nah, sorry I don’t think it’s right.

*Would you please share 5-7 things about the person behind the screen so that we get to know the “real” you!!
The real me, huh! I love to cook. Baking is not my forte.
 I love to crochet, but I don’t do it very well.
People say I talk too much… I know you do and don’t tell me you don’t because I know I do BUT did you every ask yourself why?
I have worked all my life. I was always around people, and now I’m home alone and not by choice. I don’t have many friends, so when someone does call… I rest my case.
I try to keep peace in the family (just like my mom use too guess I picked up where she left off), and that doesn’t work very well sometimes.
I’ve written a book that not too many people have read, but never had it published.
I totally LOVE ice cream, and
I love to dance. Years ago I was a professional dancer, but we won’t go there.

*Any other info you would like to share.
My daughter is NightOwlMama and is going to California next week on a blog convention I guess you call it, and I’m so happy for her. She’s going to see some cartoon movie, opening night red carpet thing. I don’t know that much about it, but I know she’s extremely happy, so I’m happy!

P.S. Why didn’t you pick somebody more interesting. I’m boring. —yawn!!! luv ya, Dolly

I think you all can read between the lines to see that she has a huge, warm, caring and genuine heart.  Her family and friends are her priority.  She does a lot of product giveaways and just recently was asked to do a book review!!!  Talk about a panic attack.  The emails were flying back and forth. And I have to say, she did a phenomenal job, so much so that the author has asked her to read and review the sequel so I am hoping that she will one day become part of our book community.  She has faced many of life’s challenges but always finds the humor in it to get her through….attitude is everything and she has a lot of it.  She is one special lady…that is why she is my Shining Star.  Please stop by her place and tell her that her little sister sent her.  And oh…..btw…she is also of Italian heritage so there will be plenty of food!!!  Thank you Big Sis for being you and for caring so much about me.

From Danielle’s blog:
We all leave our “footprint” on the world, in one way or another. We each, individually, do something or are someone that makes the world a little better just by being here. I created this weekly meme to get to know the blogging community I love just a bit better. To know what makes them tick, outside of books, that is. Each week I will post a question to be answered in the following week’s “A Bit of Me(Me)”. Check back each Saturday to get the info for next week’s post and link up with your current post right here.
This week’s question:  What’s your favorite color? Or maybe you have multiple favorites, which ones? Be creative with how you tell us if you have time.
As far as my wardrobe, it consists mainly of black, can’t go wrong and easy to accessorize.  The rest is jeans and colorful tops.

From Yvonne’s site:
I’ve wanted to start a meme like this for a long time. It’s “Anything Goes on Saturday”. It’s a chance to choose any topic you want and talk about it on Saturday – it can be about a book, TV show, movie, a recipe or just an update on your week. Whatever you choose.
Today’s Topic:  Rereading Books
I have seen where many bloggers enjoy rereading books.  Have you?  I never have and quite honestly not sure if I understand why.  There are so many books just waiting to be read, I know that I have such an extensive personal tbr bucket list (notably named because of my age) I don’t think I will ever be able to read them all.  I was talking with Julie from Reading Without Restraint about this the other night on the phone.  I read the first 4 books of the Women’s Murder Club by James Patterson many, many years ago and can’t remember what they were about and recently have won some of the latest in the series.  I have some GC so was thinking I would purchase the earlier ones and start from the beginning.  But this will be the first time I have ever reread a book.
Would love to hear your thoughts on rereading books.  Do you?  Is it as enjoyable knowing how the story plays out?  What makes you want to reread a book?  Or do you feel that there are too many other books to be read?

From Danielle’s blog:
We all leave our “footprint” on the world, in one way or another. We each, individually, do something or are someone that makes the world a little better just by being here. I created this weekly meme to get to know the blogging community I love just a bit better. To know what makes them tick, outside of books, that is. Each week I will post a question to be answered in the following week’s “A Bit of Me(Me)”. Check back each Saturday to get the info for next week’s post and link up with your current post right here.
This week’s question:  What’s your favorite color? Or maybe you have multiple favorites, which ones? Be creative with how you tell us if you have time.
As far as my wardrobe, it consists mainly of black, can’t go wrong and easy to accessorize.  The rest is jeans and colorful tops.

From Yvonne’s site:
I’ve wanted to start a meme like this for a long time. It’s “Anything Goes on Saturday”. It’s a chance to choose any topic you want and talk about it on Saturday – it can be about a book, TV show, movie, a recipe or just an update on your week. Whatever you choose.
Today’s Topic:  Rereading Books
I have seen where many bloggers enjoy rereading books.  Have you?  I never have and quite honestly not sure if I understand why.  There are so many books just waiting to be read, I know that I have such an extensive personal tbr bucket list (notably named because of my age) I don’t think I will ever be able to read them all.  I was talking with Julie from Reading Without Restraint about this the other night on the phone.  I read the first 4 books of the Women’s Murder Club by James Patterson many, many years ago and can’t remember what they were about and recently have won some of the latest in the series.  I have some GC so was thinking I would purchase the earlier ones and start from the beginning.  But this will be the first time I have ever reread a book.
Would love to hear your thoughts on rereading books.  Do you?  Is it as enjoyable knowing how the story plays out?  What makes you want to reread a book?  Or do you feel that there are too many other books to be read?

Once again, Megan from Phenix & Phenix Literary Publicists has given me the honor to introduce you to a new author that they are working with.  And I have to tell you, I started reading the book the other night and by the first few pages, I was hooked!!  So I am excited, not only to have the pleasure of  hosting this Guest Author, but Phenix & Phenix has generously offered for 2 of my lucky international visitors the chance to win his book.  My review is posted below.  So please help me welcome, Mr. Joseph Hayes!!!

    Joe currently resides in The Woodlands, Texas, with his wife, Susan, and their three children, Amy, Sean and Erin.
Visit his website at:  http://www.joseph-hayes.com/

    Unbeknownst to Danny, he didn’t cause the accident. His best friend and aspiring politician, Blair Van Howe, was driving Danny’s car that night because Danny had drunk himself into oblivion. Knowing that Danny was prone to alcohol-induced memory blackouts, and panicked at the prospect of seeing his promising political career explode in scandal, Blair made it appear that the accident was Danny’s fault and fled the scene. While Danny struggles to pick up the pieces of his shattered life, Blair’s political career takes on a meteoric trajectory, as he rises from Chicago’s South Side to become a beloved and fabulously successful figure on the national stage. But when a dogged detective digs deeper into the case, Blair must decide just how far he is willing to go to keep his dark secret.
    When No One is Watching is both a page-turning thriller and a poignant tale of a man’s search for meaning and redemption in the face of cruel and overwhelming personal hardship. It explores the impact of guilt on the human mind and heart, and searches for inspiration and heroism in unexpected places. Among other thought-provoking questions, author Joseph Hayes asks, is “the greater good” just a lie we tell ourselves to justify the sins we commit when no one is watching?

Published by Synergy Books
ISBN-13: 978-0-9843879-4-6
ISBN-10: 0-9843879-4-3
At the request of Phenix & Phenix Literary Publicists, a TPB was sent, at no cost to me, for my honest opinion.
  Synopsis (back of book): On the eve of announcing his run for Congress, a charismatic Chicago politician causes a deadly accident. Panicked, he frames his best friend, a good-hearted alcoholic, and flees the scene. As one man tries to pick up the pieces of his shattered life, the other embarks on a meteoric rise to political stardom. But when a dogged detective digs deeper into the case, the political superstar must decide just how far he is willing to go to keep his dark secret. Author Joseph combines page-turning suspense with a poignant tale of inspiration and redemption as he asks, is “the greater good” just a lie we tell ourselves to justify the sins we commit when no one is watching?
  My Thoughts and Opinion: Wow!! Where do I start without including any spoilers? This book pulled me in as fast as the Porsche was going the night of the accident. A page turning, suspenseful book full of real life characters, some you instantly feel for, cry with, despise, empathize with, some you want to hate but can’t, and those that you cheer on. A can’t put down book that at times has you holding your breath. This would be a great pick for a book club selection as it includes some very profound discussion questions. Full of lies, secrets, integrity, forgiveness, love, and friendship. Outstanding!!

  On the eve of announcing his run for Congress, a charismatic Chicago politician causes a deadly accident. Panicked, he frames his best friend, a good-hearted alcoholic, and flees the scene. As one man tries to pick up the pieces of his shattered life, the other embarks on a meteoric rise to political stardom. But when a dogged detective digs deeper into the case, the political superstar must decide just how far he is willing to go to keep his dark secret and avoid an explosive scandal that could ruin him and rock the entire nation.
  In this suspenseful thriller, author Joseph Hayes asks, is “the greater good” just a lie we tell ourselves to justify the sins we commit when no one is watching?

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