Unfiltered by @ElsaKurt #RomanceGems

First: Happy New Year and New Decade! 

How exciting, right?! Okay, if I'm being honest, it took me a bit to feel it, that excitement. For me, 2019 was nice. The good things that happened over the year were greater in number and impact than the bad. I know 2019, we've been great friends these past twelve months. But this new guy, this fancy even number guy 2020. Hmm. Not so sure about you, buddy. You gonna bring good stuff? I've got my eye on you, you know.

Kidding aside, I really am excited for the new year. I love the promise of what might come, the fresh-start feeling, and - I confess - the fact that it brings me into the decade we move to Florida. Sure, it's not until almost midway through, but still... it's getting closer!!

Hang With Me, I'm About To Get Super Honest

There was one thing that occurred over the course of 2019 that was not so cool. I lost control of my health and gained a considerable amount of weight. Like 25lbs worth. I am at the fitness level of a ninety-year-old right now. I wish I was joking, but I'm not. And, if I'm being brutally honest, I hate how I look these days. I spoke in detail about it in this social media post:

Yikes

My apologies for the f-bomb in there. What I've left out of the above post is that I took at least ten pictures before I found one vaguely okay enough to save... and filter. I'm never going to look that smooth in real life. My makeup will never be that on-point. I know this, and it's okay. It is what it is.This is basically me looking my best without cosmetic surgery! That's what I kept telling myself, at least. Believe me, I'm well-aware of the pitfalls and negatives of creating what is essentially an illusion. Especially when I see an unfiltered picture. (LOL). See example below. So, no. I'm not going unfiltered any time soon. #sorrynotsorry

Can ya blame a girl for wanting just a little smoothy-smooth?! A bit of brighty-bright?! And let's not even get into what happens when someone takes an unauthorized photo. Actually, that's what really set this resolution vibe going. Let's just say... it was bad. So, so bad. As in hell, no, I'm not showing you that picture. That picture showed the truth and it was painful.

No Crybaby Whining, I Swear!

It's only whining when you do nothing to change your situation! And I am changing my situation, one day at a time. But since I did some woe-is-me stuff up there, allow me to balance by saying this: I am ridiculously blessed and fortunate, and I'm grateful every day for this life I get to live. I love what I do, I am loved and supported, and I have no real complaints considering what other people are dealing with in the world. I have this one, very fixable problem, and it's in perspective.

Thank You

Well, my segue skill is not on point here, but thank you, kind people who take the time to read my posts and my books. You can never truly know how much it means to us writers. While I may not know your struggles and challenges, I know they exist and so my hope for you in this new year is that you have peace, patience, and love within and for yourself. P.S. One promise I made to myself when I began writing with intent to share was to be honest and open, good or bad. So, whether I go filtered or unfiltered in my photos, I can promise I'll always be real and authentic with my words and actions. ;)

Almost Forgot

The authoring stuff, duh! Quick heads up. I'm hard at work on book five in the Welcome to Chance Series and expect a February release! This has been the easiest... and yet most difficult one to write. There is SO much I want to tell you! But then this post would be the equivalent of a book. What I can do is direct you to my Newsletter, where not only do I give a sneak peek and an exclusive detail, but I'm also offering a chance to win a $20 Amazon Gift Card! Interested in starting the series? Image link below will take you to my website. Or click HERE.

 

Last But Never Least! Check Out Our January Promotion:

What's Next?

Our January Promotion is named What's Next and has Amazon Gift Cards for prizes. What's Next ends at 11:59 p.m. on January 31st. 

You'll find details about What's Next on our Monthly Giveaway page.

Be sure and visit on Jan. 6 when Kathryn Hills will present a special What's Next group post!

Resolution Revolution - A Group Post from #RomanceGems

Our Romance Gems theme for January is “What's Next?” As authors, perhaps that means writing more or finishing the book of your heart. However, we are women, wives, mothers, sisters, daughters, and grandparents, too. What’s next could mean something more personal. Tell me… What tops your To-Do List for 2020?

“My darling daughter is getting married on May 30 so the prep for the nuptials is number uno on my things to get ready for this year. The wedding is going to be a 2-weekend event with the Catholic ceremony over Memorial Day and the reception taking place the entire next weekend, beginning with a cocktail party Friday night, then a Sri Lankan blessing ceremony on Saturday with a huge dinner reception thereafter. Sunday morning is a goodbye brunch. 400 people/4 days/1 tired MOB at the end of it!” ~ Peggy Jaeger

"I have two priorities for the New Year. Professionally, I really need to get back to a good writing habit. Even when I'm working, I've been inefficient and distracted. I'd like to concentrate on getting the last book of my series finally written. Personally, I'd like to make healthier eating choices and commit to doing some type of exercise daily. I saw a number I've never seen on my scale in the past few weeks and I'd like to trim back a bit." ~ Satin Russell

“There are two kinds of travelers. Those who live to travel and explore. And those who live to vacation. Preferably on a sunny beach with a good book and a cocktail. I fall in the latter category. I work hard, so when I’m away I’m all about relaxing. But recently the hubster and I met a wonderful couple who own a B and B in France, near the Loire Valley. Can you say wine? The valley produces some of my favorites. And since the kind innkeepers have offered to show us around the area and introduce us to winery owners they know.... It may not happen in 2020, but we are definitely doing some of the preliminary legwork to see if we can make this trip happen sooner rather than later. I’m game, even if there is no beach.”
~ Kathleen Lawless

“For the last quarter of 2019, I’ve been a slug, sitting in front of the TV and nursing a head cold and then a case of pneumonia. I’ve also dealt with a couple of chronic illnesses that have become part of my life. I take more medicine now, and I’ve acquired some new “-ologists” in my local medical community. For 2020, I want to get back on track physically. I want to be more active, ride horses, volunteer with my charity Alley Cat Advocates, and finish writing my trilogy.” ~ Jan Scarbrough

"Self. 2020 is my year to put myself above all else. My family will, of course, get all the attention I can give them. Yet, for the first time in forever, I have to concentrate on me. That means: Health, wealth, and joy. My goals are to lose a significant amount of weight (in a healthy manner); pay off all my bills and save more; and find my joy in writing again. If I can accomplish those three goals, I will be a very happy person." ~ Nancy Fraser

"For 2020 I hope to continue to eat with my health in mind. I've lost over 20 lbs and mean to maintain that loss. Walking helps. I also need to keep my focus and the daily practice of yoga helps with that. As for travel, we'll be taking 2 months in Portugal for a winter break. More about my writing plans for the new year will be posted on the blog! Please take a moment to follow me on BookBub. Thanks and happy 2020 to our readers!" ~ Bonnie Edwards

“In 2020, I plan to help my son -- who is a junior in high school -- figure out his plan for college. He wants to be an animator. The universities that support that have tough requirements, therefore, I'll be studying for the SAT with him. YIKES. Y'all say a prayer for my sanity.” ~ Kara O’Neal

"I'm a woman who sets goals, makes lists, and generally enjoys organizing just about anything. A New Year is exciting and fills me with enthusiasm and energy, but I'm a bit perplexed about 2020. Currently, my life has many variables. If none of them come into play, I'll write more. I have series that need to be ended and new ideas to play with. I'll guide Romance Gems into self-publishing and offer at least 1 multi-author box set. Personally, Darling Hubby and I are going to travel a bit—maybe back to Italy, out to Big Bend in Texas, and to other places in the U.S. WHAT'S NEXT for me? (Sign up for my Newsletter and receive a free ebook when you confirm." ~ Joan Reeves

“For 2020 I'm going all in - as my daughter Meg calls it - we're going for the GLOW. Refocused on eating lots of fruits and veggies and drinking water! Going back to the gym and getting ready to for the next 40 years of my life. Then on the author front - write great books, release great books - repeat. Attend Reader/Author events so that I can meet you! Happy New Year!” ~ Lucinda Race

“I have to finish up my story for Be My Heartwarming Valentine, the latest Christmas Town anthology and am working on a new proposal. Life is a constantly upsetting apple cart, but my intent is to keep pushing, no matter how many apples have to be picked up.” ~ Liz Flaherty

“Every year I balk at the notion of making New Year's resolutions, and every year I decide to make them. Except I refuse to call them resolutions, but rather goals. Po-tay-to, Po-tah-to, I know. For this new year, I'm committed to reclaiming my body. I've been too sedentary, and it's reflected in my health, appearance, and self-confidence. But I'm a problem solver, and this is a problem I can and will solve. I guess you could say I've resolved myself to getting fit. Which basically means I've made a resolution... and a goal.” ;) ~ Elsa Kurt

“So, what’s up for me after all these great Resolution Revolutions? A lot more writing! Last year had its ups, downs, and interruptions. This year, I plan to finish the first book in my next series. A book I’ve been dreaming about and plotting for over a decade. I’m almost there and super-excited to share it with you! On a personal note... Home renovations continue, garden/landscaping ideas are coming together, and travel. I do love traveling with my family and friends! Last year is history. A bright new year with many more adventures awaits. Happy new year, ALL!” ~ Kathryn Hills

"The top of my list for 2020 is to get more books written and out to the public. Now that I'm not working a full-time job or traveling all over in an RV, I'm hoping to finish writing books 4, 5, and 6 of my Love on the Line series. I’d also like to finish and publish books 3 and 4 of my Storms of New England series. A few of these are done in rough draft, so I need to go back and revise and edit. I may even venture into some self-publishing to change things up. Write on!!" ~ Kari Lemor 

Okay, it's your turn to join the conversation! Add your comments below or send via email through the "contact us” link on the bottom of the left sidebar.

Thanks for joining us! Happy 2020!

~ The Romance Gems ~

Enter our January GIVEAWAY HERE!

Grand Prize: $20.00 Amazon Gift Card 

2nd Prize: $15.00 Amazon Gift Card 

3rd Prize: $10.00 Amazon Gift Card 

4th Prize: $5.00 Amazon Gift Card

Best of luck to everyone!

Coffee and Conversation with the #RomanceGems

It's time for Coffee and Conversation with the Romance Gems! So, grab a cup of your favorite beverage and join us for some fun. This month's topic is: What are your plans for New Year’s Eve?

December thirty-first, New Year's Eve! To some it’s a reason to celebrate. For others it’s a time for quiet reflection and even resolutions. Still others feel it’s just another night. Do you “watch the ball drop?” on TV or in Times Square? Eat, drink, and make merry? Friends, family, or the pets? A special date with your honey and that magical midnight kiss? Maybe you must work or simply want to sleep? Tell me!

“Since our very early twenties, my husband and I have spent New Year's Eve in much the same way. We go out for dinner, a movie (when the kids were little we'd take them skating at an outdoor rink) and then home to watch the ball drop. We have appies and share a bottle of bubbly and reminisce. These days, we’re often asleep by the time the ball drops. LOL” ~ Bonnie Edwards

“This year, for the few weeks around Christmas and New Year’s, I'll be staying with my oldest daughter helping her with her new baby. I don't know exactly what I'll be doing, but most likely it will include hanging out and snuggling with my grandkids!” ~ Kari Lemor

“Karl and I will probably stay in where it’s cozy and watch a good movie.”
~ Karen Kelley

“My New Year's Eve plans will involve going out to the Strip in Las Vegas and partying it up! Just kidding! I'll be at home in my pajamas drinking sparkling apple juice with the kids and letting them stay up past their bedtimes. I party hard” ;) ~ Laura Hunsaker

New Year's Eve with kids and grand kids!

“Over the years, we've celebrated New Year's Eve in all different ways - big house parties, small family gatherings, fancy dinner events, dinner and dancing, and then my personal favorite: staying home with just my husband and our dogs. We did this for the first time two years ago and we had the best time EVER! Lobsters & steak by candlelight. Martinis, followed by - are you ready for it - karaoke in the music room. (My husband plays the drums & I play a mean tambourine). In fact, it was so much fun, we've decided to do a repeat this year! Wherever you go & however you spend New Year's Eve, I hope it is filled with hope, happiness, health & wealth!” xo ~ Elsa Kurt

Peggy Jaeger says, "I'm down there somewhere. Can you spot me?"

“In my 20’s I lived in Manhattan and would routinely watch the “ball drop” on 12.31, live, from a spot on a street in Times Square. With frigid temps, inclement weather, immovable drunken crowds, and surrounded by millions of my closest friends, this was the only way I ever wanted to ring in the New Year. Now in my 50’s, sitting up in bed and wearing my jammies, the electric blanket covering me, a book in one hand and a cup of tea in the other, I’m routinely sound asleep by ten p.m. on 12.31. Best New Year’s Evah!” ~ Peggy Jaeger

“I look forward to the New Year. It always feels like a fresh start—a second chance to "get it right" or at least get it done. The fading year has been a difficult one. I'll admit I'm tired and a bit burned out. Normally, we have a New Year's Eve party, but I need to recharge so Larry and I plan a quiet evening at our home in the country. We'll watch the fireworks from the back porch, and we'll have champagne—a must. Happy New Year to all!” ~ Joan Reeves

Champagne at home for Kathleen Lawless

“I’ve always tended to be a stay-at-home gal on New Year’s Eve, although I did get dragged out a few times by well-meaning family and friends when I was single. Usually I couldn’t wait for midnight to say my goodbyes. Steel and I, still in the honeymoon stage after nine years, have been in the habit of making a lovely lobster dinner for ourselves and curling on the couch to watch the ball drop. Naturally, Champagne is involved. When a friend offered us her seaside condo last year I was unsure, but found it really relaxing to be away from the post-Christmas “should do’s” at home. We’re heading there again this year to welcome in 2020.” ~ Kathleen Lawless

“I will be in my pajamas, I hope, and writing on New Year's. I'm not a big fan of the holiday because I get tired. However, I look forward to it now, and it’s my husband’s fault. For the last three years, he's taken video every day, and he turns that into what he calls his "One Second Video". He puts together a montage of one second of every day for the entire year. And we watch it on January 1st. It's beautiful. It makes New Year's very special. So special, in fact, that I stay awake for it!” ~ Kara O’Neal

Nancy Fraser's bayberry candles for good luck!

“My plans for New Year's Eve always include my youngest grandchild. While the others are partying, he and I follow some family traditions like putting a jar of change out in the snow to bring us luck and wealth in the new year and lighting Bayberry candles for good health. Yes, my mom was superstitious and I've carried on the quirks. Once we’ve completed our tasks, we warm up some mulled cider, raid the cookie jar, and watch a movie. Lately it’s become a real test to see who can stay awake the longest!” ~ Nancy Fraser

“On New Year’s Eve, we review the past year and discuss plans for the New Year. Nothing too detailed, just general goals. The past year was a difficult one for our family so we’re hoping 2020 will include better experiences. We’re homebodies and stay home, watch a movie on television, and drink hot chocolate. This year, our oldest daughter will still be with us for a few more days. She’s also enjoys a quiet evening at home. Not exciting for most people, but pleasant for us.” ~ Caroline Clemmons 

“I just made plans to go to a resort in the Berkshires where it will be way too cold but where we've gone for several years. Nothing special planned for New Year's Eve. We'll see what's going on when we get there. It's a nice area to hike and they have an indoor pool and hot tub! And good restaurants in the area.” ~ Hannah Rowan

“New Year’s Eve is festive time for our family, typically spent at home. We’ve had everything from big parties to quiet nights with just us. Either way, we cook Tex-Mex, grill ribs (some years in a snowstorm!) and ring in the new year with margaritas and champagne. This year we’re hosting our closest friends and family. There will be music, laughter, playful pups, and lots of food and love to spread around."
~ Kathryn Hills

Okay, it's your turn to join the conversation! Add your comments below or send via email through the "contact us” link on the bottom of the left sidebar. You can also make suggestions on what you'd like to discuss here in the future.

Thanks for joining us! Wishing you ALL a very happy, healthy, prosperous new year!

~ The Romance Gems ~

Don't miss out! There's still time to enter our December Giveaway!

Ends 11:50 pm EST, Tuesday, December 31st

Go to our RAFFLECOPTER to win 1 of 5 Amazon Gift Cards 

Or, visit our Monthly Giveaway Page

PLUS...There's a Holiday Book Fair!

Give yourself the gift of Romance!