Hillbilly Debutante

Dixie Road Trip with Sally...

2012-01-31T17:58:00.000-08:00

Remember Mom promised me a while back that we'd be taking a special trip - just me and her? Well, we packed up the truck and drove for 2 days til we got to Nana's house in Southwest Missouri.

We spent the first night in a terrible, nasty motel. I couldn't even sleep! I stayed awake all night just to watch over Mom and make sure she was safe. Then we got up early the next morning and drove for another day.

"Just be patient," Mom would say. "All this time spent in the truck will be worth it, just wait and see."

Oh boy! She was right! Grandpa had 80 acres for me to run and play in! No leash! No traffic! And no noisy cars or trucks!

Are you sure, Mom? Are you sure I can run ahead of you without a leash?

Mom didn't have to tell me twice! Off I went.

This is the only place in all of Cedar County, Missouri that Mom got phone service. So while she did business, I roamed

here.....

and here.

Nothing like drinking fresh water from the stream.

One tired dog.

Please join us tomorrow for pictures from Mom's Southern Living Dixie Road trip.

(Note: Mom's Southern Living Road trips are when we go visit some place that has been featured in Southern Living magazine)

Synopsis of 'The Hillbilly Debutante Cafe'

2012-01-19T19:45:00.000-08:00

Welcome to El Dorado Springs, Missouri, population 3,021. It doesn't look like much from the outside, but it doesn't take long -anytime at all, really - to realize there's much more than meets the eye.

That's how Molly McCarty feels, anyway. After deciding she's had enough of the big-city life as a politicians wife in Washington, Molly moves back to her hometown and buys the abandoned Serenity Farm. Molly acclimates herself to life in a small town with the help of her best friend, Jennifer Papula, who is only too happy to share the town's most recent juicy gossip.

For one thing, there's Jerry Ray Turner, the towns best mechanic, who came out of the closet as a cross-dresser. And then there's crazy old Ollie Griffin, still living inside his '69 Thunderbird and occasionally showering in the park's fountain. But the biggest uproar is Roy Bob Benson, who is trying to buy the old Hacker's Jewelry building and turn it into a "girly" bar.

That's just the beginning of the news, and as Molly tries to help the newly formed revitalization committee think of a way to stop Roy Bob, a vandal threatens the town's sense of security. Who is doing this and why? Full of wit, intrigue, and a cast of memorable characters, The Hillbilly Debutante Cafe is sure to keep you coming back time and time again.

****

Release date: March 27th, however I have a little surprise! I will be making a trip to the town where the story takes place very soon.

On January 28th I will be in El Dorado Springs, Missouri emceeing The Miss Cedar County and Miss Southwest Missouri Pageants with Miss Missouri Sydney Friar. Either during intermission or after the pageant I will have at least 50 books to sell. You will be the FIRST to be able to purchase this book. (I won't even allow pre-sales until after this date.)

If you live in the area and aren't able to make the pageant no worries. It's only fitting that the release party for "The Hillbilly Debutante Cafe" takes place in El Dorado Springs and you'll have the opportunity to attend!

til next time,

Kathie

I NEVER do this, BUT....

2012-01-17T12:21:00.000-08:00

I thought I'd post an 'outfit of the day'. I love it when my blogger friends do this but I just have never participated because I figure y'all really don't give two cahoots about what I'm wearin'.

But it was so cold, rainy and gloomy today that I was just pretty dog-gone proud of myself for pulling together an 'I've got errands to run' outfit that kept me warm and dry but was still presentable.

I have to tell you though, I still think it so strange that these boots, which I used to wear to clean out horse stalls are now all the fashion rage. Who'd have thought?

Til Next Time,

Kathie

Make Living a Wonderful Art - Guest Post by Author Sharon Chang

2012-01-15T17:56:00.000-08:00

The Creative Giver

When most people think of making living a work of art, their minds leap readily to scenarios involving getting, having, enjoying and retaining what they find most pleasurable. Nothing wrong with that—it’s human nature to seek out happiness in the forms that are most meaningful to us. In any work of art, though, a measure of balance is required. Based on some of the most artistically-lived lives I’ve observed, I’m here to declare that without adding giving into the equation, a totally satisfying life can’t be created.

Think you aren’t rich enough to be giving anything away? Think again. The lack of riches only hampers those who consider giving in terms of money and material things. Each of us possesses incomparable riches that extend well beyond whatever our material wealth may be. If we can share nothing else, we can at least make giving of these intangibles a habit that contributes to artful and rewarding living.

(Jesse Barnes: Church in the Wildwood)

How? Start at the Source. Everything we have, including life itself, is a gift from God. He has asked that one day of our every week be given back, consecrated to Him, treated as holy. Is it really too much to ask that we give back to Him by getting up, suiting up, showing up at our chosen place of worship, and giving Him an hour or two of our attention every Sabbath day? Really? So what if the sermon is dull and the choir off key, and we’re tempted to walk away saying “I didn’t get anything out of that service”? Is it really too difficult to remind ourselves that we’ve come there to give our worship to God, and that anything we may get is icing on a cake that is perfectly tasty unadorned?

Continue with our families and our friends. What they want and need most from us, in addition to our love, is our attention. In the case of relatives more distantly related than first cousins, I’ll add “our acknowledgment”; in the case of friends with mental/emotional glitches (e.g., ADD, Asperger’s Syndrome, developmental disabilities), I’ll add further “our patience.” Family and friends are our riches even when other riches may be lacking, and to discount them (or simply fail to invest in them) is to impoverish ourselves beyond any telling of it.

Finally, consider the rest of the world. “God gave me no talents that are suitable for sharing” is an attitude that reaches well beyond false modesty, venturing into the territory of flatfooted lie. Whether our talent is for entertainment, teaching, or service—or all of the above and more—we have much to offer the world. If we set our creative minds to it, we can identify a multitude of ways to make that offering.

Two of my finest friends, both deceased, taught me much about giving. Emily was a housewife and occasional art student, a child of poor immigrants, a woman not educated past high school. Through her love of art and her voracious reading, she pursued a lifelong self-education process. And no matter how much I would ever bring to Emily in the way of gifts, it was impossible to escape her presence on any given visit without being forced to bear away twice as much as I had brought. If she found nothing else to bestow at a moment’s notice, she would fill my arms with food (“It’s the peasant in me,” she’d say apologetically). Almost every gift I ever gave her eventually found its way back to my daughter, for Emily also believed that cherished objects were only lent, and that parting with a truly good gift “should hurt a little.”

Eddy became what would turn out to be a lifelong friend when we first met at the age of fifteen. He gave me his undying romantic love and devotion—and (very eventually) his understanding that, even though I could only reciprocate with the love of a friend, that kind of love has its own great value and is not a diminution of anything “better.” Besides a great many material things, he offered me unflagging hospitality, tremendous appreciation, and unending gratitude for the fact that I was his friend. His dying wish was for me to be notified and to visit him before the end; his (nearly) last words to me echoed his concern that I be shown something occurring nearby in which we both shared interest and delight. Eddy gave me—we gave each other—a valuable relationship of unquestioned authenticity.

Were I to get started on specific ideas for more tangible giving, this post would very quickly begin looking as though the Sorcerer’s Apprentice had been tasked with its creation. So I’ll stop here—hoping that I’ve provided you some insight into all you have to give, and how very much your life will be enriched by the giving.

Join me for Live Tweets Miss America-style!

2012-01-13T20:23:00.000-08:00

This year is special as I have known Sydney Friar, Miss Missouri since before she was born.

Miss Missouri Sydney Friar and her proud grandmother, Mrs. Friar

As a matter of fact, she is mentioned in my new novel, "The Hillbilly Debutante Cafe" because she just happens to be from the tiny town where the story takes place - El Dorado Springs, Missouri!

Rhonda Shellhorn Friar, Miss Missouri Sydney Friar, and Jerry Friar

Those of you who are familiar with my tweets/facebook dialogue during the Country Music Awards should know that this particular feed will be 'snark-free'. These girls are so young and they all have worked so hard to get to this point and they are all so deserving of the Miss America crown. So everything I talk about regarding the contestants will be very positive. The judges and emcees? All bets are off. They're fair game.

If you are on twitter, follow me at @ktruitt. If you don't have twitter and you want to join my play-by-play on Facebook please join my personal page 'Kathie Truitt".

Living vicariously through Elizabeth Taylor

2012-01-09T21:13:00.000-08:00

Meet Elizabeth Taylor:

For years I dreamed of owning a dress form so when I saw this lovely lady at TJ Maxx it was love at first sight. She seemed right at home in my pink and white house and she earned her name to due to her obvious glamour.

Now something I bet you didn't know about me: I collect vintage clothing. Unfortunately, so many of these lovely pieces are tiny, tiny, tiny and no way ~~will my big butt~~ am I able to fit into them. That's where Elizabeth Taylor comes in. See for yourself....

Doesn't this look like something Jackie Kennedy would've worn?

And isn't this to die for?

The time of day/occasion dictates what she wears for the day. Miss Taylor has been known to change clothes several times a day, but if you look real close in the background in the next photo, you will see the simple day dress and pearls she dons most of the time.

Til Next Time,

Kathie

'Make Living a Wonderful Art' -

2012-01-04T13:06:00.000-08:00

my mantra for 2012 and my challenge to each and every one of you!

This year my goal is to encourage you to turn your life into a beautiful, magnificent piece of art that is a reflection of who you are - or who you want to be.

"But Kathie, that's impossible for me. I have a demanding career, bills, obligations, kids...I sit in 2 hours of traffic, only have time for take-out, no one in the family has had clean underwear for 3 days and my boss just assigned me a new project that is due tomorrow. I barely find time enough in the day as it is to get everything done."

Been there, done that, got the t-shirt and I can assure you, my dears, that if this is the case with you, then you need this challenge more than anyone! So ask yourself these two question: Am I living? Or just existing?

With all due respect to Shirley MacLaine I believe we only get one go 'round in this old world, so we need to make it the best 'go-'round' possible.

(For you young-uns, Shirley MacLaine is an actress who is probably more memorable for her belief that she's lived 'other lives' rather than her movie roles. Oops! Forget I said that! My other goal for the new year is to curtail my smarty-pants comments - my bad!)

Each week I am going to give you ideas on how I incorporate little things into my life to beautify the mundane of the day to day. And I look forward to YOU sharing your ideas with ME!

So let's get started on a few, shall we?

I know a lot of you wives and mothers out there who are on the go a lot rely on take-out. I'm not judging you. Yes, I work at home but there have been times I've been on a deadline, lost track of time, or just simply didn't want to cook so I either call out for Pizza or I go and pick something up.

But please, if you do that resist the urge to just slop the food on paper plates! I hate paper plates! Yes, I know they are convenient and yes I know they make some beautiful ones nowdays but they're just so...impersonal. And tacky. Life is too short to eat on paper plates with plastic eatery. No matter how hectic our life has been I have always tried to set a proper table. And although the photo above is more casual, I am also a stickler for using my china. I never wait for a special occasion to use my 'good' china and silverware! Get over that thinking!! Every single day you have here on earth is special so don't wait to use the best you have.

(these roses lasted almost two weeks!)

Keep fresh flowers! Although my favorite thing to do is support local florists, if you're on an absolute time-crunch and can't make one more stop, most of your grocery stores have fresh flowers. They're not expensive and if you cut them and put them in water as soon as you get home they last a long time. I almost always buy roses, cut them down and place them in Mason Jars and tie a ribbon around the top. It adds instant elegance to any room and of course everyone will enjoy the frangrance.

Something else that I got into the habit of the past year is setting aside a 'tea time'.

Every day at 3:00 I stop whatever I'm doing and make myself a cup of hot tea. I have a collection of over 20 tea cups that either my mother has picked up for me or that I've found at thrift stores and I take joy in drinking from a different one every day.

See? Nothing major. Nothing expensive and nothing too hard. Won't you take this challenge with me?

And I would LOVE to hear what some of you are already doing to make YOUR life a wonderful art! Please share!

Nothing to whine about in 2011....

2011-12-30T19:31:00.000-08:00

Well, maybe one thing! I'm still disappointed that Lifetime dropped my movie, but at least it was a segment on Investigation Discovery. All in all this was a great year. Everyone is happy, healthy and my new novel is soon to be released. I've got a release date but I'm not tellin' til after the New Year.

Speaking of the new year, for New Years Eve, Sally, Violet and me will be snuggled in front of the fire. Sophia will be here, too and you can guarantee there'll be pizza, party hats and all the Dora the Explorer a girl could want.

Y'all be safe. I wanna see you back here in 2012!

Til next time,

Kathie

Dear Miss Merry Christmas 1979,

2011-12-24T13:04:00.000-08:00

Savor this moment. You're Queen for the day and all eyes are on you - which will never happen again for the rest of your life. Enjoy the red velvet dress. You're going to want one very similar for your wedding and your mother will nix that idea right fast.

You think you're going to live in this little town all your life but you won't. You know that boy you've got you're eye on? The one you think doesn't know you exist? You marry him.

The two of you will ride off into the sunset and have wild, crazy adventures. You will have dreams come to fruition that you thought were beyond reach. No, you won't run off to New York and become an actress, nor will you be a back-up singer in Nashville, but you will have a great radio career, and you and said boy will have two of the most beautiful children known to mankind.

But right now, you're future is the furthest thing from your mind.

So go ahead and wave to the crowd, blow kisses to the babies and think to yourself that this is the best Christmas ever. You'll find out soon enough that it's nowhere close.

In a few hours you'll remove your tiara and gently showcase it on a mantle never imagining that 30 years from now your granddaughter will be wearing it while trying to balance herself in your too-big silver high-heels, brandishing a foil-wrapped spatula/wand.

You also have no clue that the boy driving your car whom you barely know will 25 years later become delirious in his 'old age' and tell folks that you two had an imaginary romance along with a kiss that never happened. No problem. You will squelch that rumor in December of 2011.

Til Next Time,

Kathie

Jesus take the Wheel....er....um...bike handles

2011-12-21T14:27:00.000-08:00

I had a meeting in New York City yesterday and afterwards as I was trying to hail a cab, this young man offered me a ride in his three-wheel bike-cab. Always up for an adventure I thought, 'Why the heck not?'

I have never been so terrified nor so exhilarated in my entire life!! Cabs/buses/limousines/cars/delivery trucks were within a hairs breadth of turning us into a grease spot in the road! I mean, folks, when you can smell the Halal on the breath of the yellow cab driver as he drives past you with his window down, madly cursing the bike driver, you know your life in in grave danger. I can't wait to do it again.

As a matter of fact, I'm getting dressed to go see 'Wicked' and rather than wait in that long taxi line I may have to hone my hog-calling whistle and hail a bike- cab to the show. If you don't hear from me later, you'll know why.....

Til Next Time (hopefully)

Kathie

A note from Sally

2011-12-13T18:57:00.000-08:00

Dear readers,

Please forgive Mom for her sporadic writing. She asked me to fill in for her until she gets back. Her life has been a whirlwind the past few weeks and while I know she is having fun, I miss her like crazy. I hope she doesn't mind that I've uploaded a few pictures to show you what she has been up to.

First, she hosted a luncheon at our house for some of the finest ladies in Washington, DC. Why, I've never seen such beautiful, well-dressed women! I wanted so bad to get a closer ~~sniff~~ look, but unfortunately Violet has a tendency to yap-yap-yap- when we have company, so I was put in charge of staying outside and tending to her.

Then, Mom (and Dad) were invited to judge the Mrs. Missouri pageant. Mom used to be a Mrs. Missouri, you know - waaaayyy back before I was born. That's her and Dad behind the new Mrs. Missouri - on the second step.

She was back for just a few days before she flew off to Indiana for a speaking engagement. (Mom always talks with her hands.)

She also did a book signing while she was in Indiana. She had fun, but I know she missed me and she got home as fast as she could!

For about a month, our life was back to normal. Plenty of hugs, lots of belly-scratches, and long, long walks. But then.....

Mom was off on another adventure and she took Dad with her again! This time they were gone for almost two weeks! Two weeks! It was their anniversary so they went sailing in the Bahamas. Dad is an awesome sailor, but Mom? Well, from what I hear she sits on the bow and dangles her legs over the side, looking for dolphins. Poor Dad.

They're home now, and right now she's upstairs resting, getting ready for her next trip - New York City!

Which means I am going to be responsible for taking care of this little squirt again. But that's okay. Mom has promised me that I am going to get take a very long road trip with her after Christmas. A very special road trip to a very special place!

Until next time,

Sally

New cover and new author photo

2011-12-05T16:47:00.000-08:00

This is the cover for the next book. One of my endorsers describe "The Hillbilly Debutante Cafe" as "Fried Green Tomatoes meets Steel Magnolias and Mayberry RFD with My Name is Earl sprinkled on top."

Another: "...reminiscent of a cross between Garrison Keillor and Phillip Gulley." (gulp!)

But the best? ((holding back tears)) Southern Lady magazine: "....Kathie Truitt is the southern voice of great storytelling." Please tell me I'm not dreaming!!!

And this is my new author photo with my two best friends who also happen to be characters!

credit: Robb Jolly, official Hillbilly Debutante photographer

That's right! Violet and Sally are fixtures in the plot. There was a similiar pose that was actually better of me, but not the girls and of course since they're the stars of the show we (Sally, Violet and myself) had an emergency meeting and they decided that it was best to portray them in the best light, rather than me. I totally concur - after all, who am I? Only the author.

Still no release date. We will let you know as soon as we hear the news.

Til next time,

Kathie, Violet and Sally

Chef Roble on Bravo....

2011-12-04T17:01:00.000-08:00

Watch this show if you get a chance and when you do, watch for Che Gravy. Why? Because you'll soon come to know his fiancee very well. Jennifer Papula is the name of one of the lead characters in "The Hillbilly Debutante Cafe". And the literary Jennifer Papula is heavily based on the real-life Jennifer Papula. She's from Poughkeepsie, NY and not only has that New York-Italian tough-girl-I'd-just-as-soon-kick-your-a** accent, but exudes the aforementioned attitude as well. I thought it would be hilarious to take that personality and 'redneck' it up a bit by making her an "Ozark-girl" instead. Hopefully she will forgive me after she reads the book.

But right now, it's all about Che. Tune in Sunday nights on Bravo at 9Central/10EST to Chef Roble. I am hoping to feature Che and Jennifer in one of my upcoming articles!

Soakin' up the sun for a couple of weeks

2011-11-20T19:03:00.000-08:00

Going away for a while. Sailing, beach, sand and sun. Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

Bye, Bye Ugly Blog

2011-11-18T13:00:00.000-08:00

I have thought for sometime now that Hillbilly Debutante was in dire need of a makeover. That opinion was confirmed when my dear friend Brenda, with whom I share one of those rare relationships in which she can and often does offer her unabashed opinion blurted, "Your blog is ugly!" She took a deep breath. "There I said it."

First of all, let me explain Brenda. We are close. Very close. As in like a sister, close. She is the only person (outside of Mr. T) that has the privilege of weighing in on 'all things Kathie'. For instance, if you told me that I was gaining weight, I would plot and plan how to make you suffer forever! BAWAHAHAHA (evil laugh) - as I was starting my 6th mile on the treadmill. But if Brenda told me I was gaining weight I'd simply shrug and say, "I know. Pass me another piece of cake, please." That's how close we are. So, if my usually-intrepid friend was afraid to tell me pride and joy was ugly, then it must really be...well, ugly!

So, today I am taking steps to fix that. Sometime in mid-February, right before the release of my new novel, we will unveil a brand new "Hillbilly Debutante".

Not only will she have a new physical appearance, but I hope to breathe new, fresh life into her content as well. I've been sporadic and stale. And I have just the cure for that. We'll be taking our yearly sailing trip over Thanksgiving. There is nothing better for 'bloggers block' than sea air! So while my husband and his friends do all the work, I will take up my usual perch on the front of the catamaran, dangle my legs over the side, feel the sea water splash on my face, ponder my next move, and thank God for all that He has blessed me with....

Til next time,

Kathie

2011-11-15T19:43:00.000-08:00

I will be back with a vengeance very soon! I am in the final stages of editing "The Hillbilly Debutante Cafe" while still doing events for "False Victim" (tonight was my 125th event).

Thank you for checking in with me whether it be via e-mail or facebook. You all are THE best!

Kathie

Book Cover!!

2011-10-24T14:53:00.000-07:00

Tonight (Oct 24th) I will post the 2 cover options for "The Hillbilly Debutante Cafe". Here is the catch - ONLY those on my facebook fan page can vote. So, if you haven't done it already - run, don't walk - and click 'like' on Kathie Truitt Author Fan Page.

Designer Leah Flores has outdone herself again! They are both just adorable and I can't decide, so I really want your feedback.

See you at 9:00 EST at Kathie Truitt Author Fan Page!

Richmond, Indiana here I come!

2011-10-20T08:26:00.000-07:00

I will be the guest speaker at at Genesis Annual Dinner held in Richmond, IN...

If you live in the area please see below for ticket information. This event benefits their local women's shelter.
Y'all come! It's for a wonderful cause.

What: YWCA of Richmond, Indiana-Friends of Genesis annual dinner

• When: 5:30 p.m. social hour, 6:30 p.m. dinner, Friday

• Where: Forest Hills Country Club, 2169 S. 23rd St., Richmond

• Cost: $35 each. Reservations required.

• Reservations and info: (765) 966-0538 Friday night October 21, 2011

Editors - who needs 'em anyway...(I do!)

2011-10-19T19:41:00.000-07:00

Edits are finished! Whew! This was a particularly stressful, intense time for me. I have never been so happy to wrap up a book as I was "The Hillbilly Debutante Cafe" and here's why.

You see, I was assigned a new editor with this book. I thought I recognized her name when she sent her introductory letter. Then it hit me. Right between the eyes. I know who this is! I opened up my computer and went to Goodreads and sure 'nuff, there it was: Her Name - with a 3 (out of 5) star rating.

Great. My new 'boss' thinks I am mediocre at best. Ugh. I stewed. I pouted. And I stewed some more.

Sure enough, when it came time for my first edits she was tough. There were things in the manuscript she insisted I take out. There were things that 'bored her to tears' and 'spaces missing' in parts of the storyline. Did I mention she was tough?

One thing I am not is a prima donna. You just can't be one in this business. For every two people that think you're talented there's three more that think you stink.

I know the importance of an editor.

So, I took a few days to just re-read my own story. Then I opened up my laptop, and because I'm not a prima donna I made every single change. I added parts and took away some - some that I really, really liked. One day before deadline I sent it back to her - and waited.

Fourteen days later I got it back. ''Looks good but I think you can do better. You have three weeks."

And I didn't take one day less than that. Three weeks of being homebound, dishes piling up, wearing my cleanest dirty shirt, and my poor family existing on pb&j and pizza. After making my last change, I pushed 'send'. Then I sat down and had a good cry.

Am I complaining? No. Okay, maybe a little, but I knew this editor would challenge me. I knew that she wouldn't quit until this book was as good as it could possibly be. Which is exactly what I owe you, dear reader.

Reading is a treat for me. When I get the opportunity to actually devour a book rather than write one I go to the book store and go hog wild! Lately I have been so disappointed in my favorite author. The last couple of novels have been awful. I feel like she does the least amount she has to do just so she can get a book out every year. All I could think is, 'where the heck is her editor?'

That is such a disservice! If you are willing to spend money on our books then you deserve the best we can give you!

I have an acquaintance - a gentleman - that is absolutely brilliant. I am talking genius, here! He has several doctorates, well-spoken and an expert on several different subjects. He told me that he'd written a book and had publishers interested but he was afraid to proceed to the next level because, and I quote, "I am just afraid of some editor picking it apart." What?? This is a man whom people pay for advice, they listen with pens poised to document his every word, but yet he's afraid some lowly little editor is going to step on his ego. Sorry, I can not relate.

Writing is my passion, it's my life; it's who I am. And it's not for sissies. You have to be 'man enough' to accept the fact that you are not 'as good' as you think you are. I know I'm not. I need my editor.

And if we have done our job - my editor and I - and I think we have - then I think you will enjoy this novel. It's good, clean, fun with characters you will fall in love with. I will leave you with the words of one of my endorsers. I believe he's summed it up best.

"The Hillbilly Debutante Cafe" is a combination of "Fried Green Tomatoes" meets "Steel Magnolias" and "Mayberry RFD" with a bit of "My Name is Earl" sprinkled on top."

Wow, I'm not worthy! But I can't help but hope you think I am.

Til next time,

Kathie

News of my demise are highly exaggerated.....

2011-10-11T06:38:00.000-07:00

I'm still here and I've missed you all terribly. Thanks for the sweet comments and e-mails. Please be patient a while longer. I'm in the second editing phase for 'The Hillbilly Debutante Cafe". I have several posts in the works for next week.

And before I forget!! Only those who are members of the "Kathie Truitt Author Fan Page" will get to review and vote on the book cover for "The Hillbilly Debutante Cafe" so if you're on facebook simply 'like' my fan page and voila - you're a member!!

Til next time (which will be sooner rather than later)

Kathie

2011-09-06T08:56:00.000-07:00

Well, summer is over. ((sigh)). School has started and all is quiet in this big ol' house. I was never one of those mom's that was happy to see September. As a matter of fact, if I had it to do over again I would home-school. Not because I think they would have had a better education (are you kidding? I can barely add 1+1), but because I could have kept them closer and never let them out of my sight.

This is tough for me, watching my last one grow up, knowing that he will leave me soon. I know if I have done my job right it's supposed to be that way, but still....ouch.

I feel cheated when it comes to Will. I spent so much of his childhood protecting him from a crazy, psychopathic stalker that I didn't get to relax and just 'enjoy' him. Even though we moved and she didn't know where we were, it wasn't until he was about 14 when he had a growth spurt and his looks began to change that I began to relax a bit. And he's seems to understand that because unlike most boys at 17 he is never embarrassed to tell us he loves us or hug us in public.

When he was first learning to talk I would rock him to sleep each night - when his sister would let me (she was 10 years older and always thought he was hers) - I would look deep into his blue eyes and say, "William you are a gift." To which he'd reply, "Mama, I not a pwesent - I a boy!"

Oh sweet William, that's where you're wrong. You are a present. A precious, special, wonderful gift sent from heaven - as is your sister.

til next time,

Kathie

We're all 'shook' up....

2011-08-23T19:02:00.000-07:00

pun intended. I experienced my very first earthquake ever today while shopping in Georgetown. However since the earth always seems to move beneath my feet when I shop in Georgetown - especially when I step into Ralph Lauren - I had no idea that's what it was until people started panicking and screaming, "Earthquake!"

Besides that and the wretched, worse-than-rush-hour-traffic and discovering one of my 'horsey' pictures had been knocked off the fireplace and scattered big chunks of glass all over the living room floor, it really wasn't all that bad. So life goes on.....

To my Northern Virginia/Washington DC readers, here's a heads up: I will be signing copies of "False Victim" at Glory Be in Occoquan, Virginia this Friday morning from 2-4, and then again on Saturday from 9-11. Come by and see me - even if you've already purchased the book I'd love to chat and tell you all about my new novel coming out next spring. Also, it's Glory Be's Fall Open House. I know for a fact that Marla has just made it back from market and a buying trip in Pennsylvania. I'm excited to see her new collections and home decorations! Once again, join me this Friday from 2-4 and then again on Saturday from 9-11.

Log on to http://www.glorybeva.com/ to see why this is one of my favorite home decorating stores!

Cowgirl Glamour....

2011-08-10T07:11:00.000-07:00

The suits/dresses I wore when touring for "False Victim" just won't work for "The Hillbilly Debutante Cafe" series. So, I've moved all my 'serious, business clothes' to the back of the closet and dustin' off my 'cowgirl chic' wardrobe.

Of course, those of you who have been following me for some time know that my signature wardrobe staple is my rain boots. While I normally don't have good luck at thrift stores when it comes to clothes, I just happened to stumble on to these brand, spankin' new Hunter's. You will absolutely keel over from a heart attack when I tell you how much I paid for them. Are ya' sittin' down?

$17.90. I know! crazy, huh? (These babies retail for over $200).

I can't wait for it to rain!!! Aw, what the heck? Who needs rain? I'll wear 'em to water my flowers in. Or ride my bike. Or go to the movies. Grocery Store. Church. Bed

Anyway, I am now up to 10 pair of rain boots. Somebody! Please stop me!

I am also about to take the plunge with the below prairie skirt from Victorian Trading Company.

Relax, just the skirt, not the camisole. I wouldn't dare bare that much skin. Nope. (Even in high school I used to wear my Dad's t-shirts over my swimsuit). But wouldn't the skirt be great with my cowboy boots?

and with my denim jacket....

tossed in with these fabulous jewels by Glamorella Junk? You MUST visit her website.

So, there you have it...

Any other suggestions? Please let me know.

Oops - gotta go. Granddaughter Sophia is here and it's time to play dress up and have tea!

I'm going on a road trip this weekend so I'll be back with you on Tuesday.

Til next time,

Kathie

2011-08-08T09:13:00.000-07:00

This last week was the first anniversary of the release of "False Victim".

Sales are still increasing, ratings are good across the board and I am still travelling for book signings, book clubs and speaking engagements, although this ol' gal is getting 'tard' so I'll be winding down soon.

Who'd have thought that being the victim of a crazy, stalking psychopathic neighbor and being forced to pack up and leave the county would turn into such a lucrative career? Gives a whole new meaning to the phrase "God works in mysterious ways", huh?

I want to thank each and every one of you who have purchased and/or read "False Victim". I have heard from so many of my readers either through e-mail or facebook, and I've literally met hundreds of you at my book signings and appearances across the country.

For those of you that like a lighter, funner (yes, that's a word - it's in the hillbilly dictionary) read, then I'm happy to announce the release of "The Hillbilly Debutante Cafe" in Spring of 2012.

Have a great rest of summer. Please take a few moments to drop me a line and let me know what you've been doing this summer. Oh! And if you're on facebook, please mosey on over to

"Kathie Truitt Author Fan Page" and join!

Til next time (which hopefully won't be too long)

Kathie

Part Two: How I live a simple 'country' life in the city.....

2011-07-25T19:25:00.000-07:00

This is part two of my response to an e-mail I received from Miss Gina out west. She and her family have relocated from a very small, rural town to a big city and was asking my advice on how to adjust. Well Gina, first and foremost I want you to remember that while you have been thrust into a world that measures your 'coolness' by how fancy your 'ride' is, how expensive your clothes are, and how massive your house is, your life is not defined by these things. It will be hard, but don't lose sight of who you are and where you're from. Keep a firm grip on those small-town values you grew up with. I'll be the first to admit that at times I've lost sight of these things, but thank God for friends 'back home' that remind me from time to time to never forget that I'm still and always be a 'small-town girl' at heart. So, here we go:

First of all - and I admit this was the hardest for me - don't be a slave to fashion. I was like a kid in a candy shop when I saw all the wonderful clothes I was surrounded by and I still have to ~~have my credit card yanked away from me~~ reign myself in.

Fact is, at the end of the day, nothin' beats my old tattered jeans and worn-out cowboy boots. They're like long-lost friends. Yep, people look at me real funny when I wear 'em, but that's okay. If they don't 'get it', then they just don't get it.

Kind of like my house. When I first moved here I decorated my house just like I thought I was 'supposed' to. It was beautiful but when you decorate from someone else then you're really not going to be happy.

So, when I moved to my new neighborhood I decorated the way I wanted to. True, some people don't get my way of putting fresh roses in mason jars with a ribbon tied around the top, but that's okay. Those that 'get' my creativity love it! Those that don't? Who cares? It's my house! And it makes me happy!

Surround yourself with things that you find beautiful.

Create quiet places throughout your home....

and warm, homey spaces...

Whenever possible, get off the beaten path....

take the road less travelled...

Give yourself time...while there's no place like home, you will acclimate to your surroundings!

As for the rest of you readers - how many of you have had to relocate to the city? What did YOU do to make the transition from country to city life. OR, are you a city person and you had to adjust to country life? We'd love to hear your perspective!

Until next time,

Kathie

I'll be back soon!

2011-07-15T05:50:00.000-07:00

I'm just finishing up "The Hillbilly Debutante Cafe" manuscript. It HAS to be to my editor by 4:00 TODAY. After that, I'm all yours and can't wait to get you all caught up. Hope you're having a great summer. Please drop me a note and let me know how your summer is going. Hearing from you makes me happy!

I would love to blog....

2011-06-21T08:19:00.000-07:00

really I would, because I have lots to tell you and show you, not to mention some really exciting things going on! However, until I know where my photos go after I upload them I'll have to hold off for now. It's so frustrating it makes me want to throw my computer up against the fireplace and watch it crumple into a million tiny, little pieces (no, I do not have anger issues) but then I'd be in divorce court. So. I will wait patiently until my sweet, wonderful, husband can help me.

He gets frustrated at my ~~stupidity~~ limited skills so maybe if I make a quick trip to Target and buy him this:

new album by CNN's Robin Meade

he will be more likely to help me sooner rather than later. You see, Mr. T is a big Fox TV man, but every morning at 6:00 am all loyalties come to a screeching halt as he tunes in to see his girl, Robin Meade. This morning they played bits and pieces of her newly released "Brand New Day" and I knew without a doubt that I'd have to sneak out today and buy this for him.

I figure after his favorite steak dinner tonight, and music from his second favorite girl, I should be good to go by tomorrow morning. Yep. I sure know how to get 'r done 'round here. The way to a man's heart is not necessarily exclusively through his stomach. His eyes and ears are a good route as well. (You have to admit Robin is a beauty, and from what I've heard so far she has a great voice.)

See ya tomorrow with part deux of how to live the simple, country life, smack-dab in the middle of the city!

Kathie

2011-06-10T12:10:00.000-07:00

I love, love, LOVE questions from my readers! And this one is my favorite one of all time. It's from Miss Gina out west. (Did I mention how much I love your questions?)

"Kathie, how did you finally adapt to city life? Between work, traffiic, running kids back and forth to this and that I am exhausted! Not to mention the stress of the faster pace? How did you do it? Please help!"

Oh, sweet Gina....how I remember those early days when I first moved to the Washington DC metro area. I had a perpetual headache for 3 months while I learned my way around the city and was scared to death I was going to injure someone or worse while I adjusted to rush hour traffic. Even singing along to my favorite Christian station often didn't prevent me from flipping off the cab driver laying on his horn and riding my bumper like a rented mule. I knew I had to do SOMETHING or I was going to commit hari-kari.

So, the first thing I did was start with my home.

I took down the fancy curtains and got rid of the uncomfortable, expensive furniture. Instead I decided to go back to the style I love - to surround myself with the things I had in my country home. So, go ahead - make yours as comfortable and tranquil as possible. DON'T listen to anyone else or style your place in the current fad - decorate with things YOU love! My favorite style is shabby-chic, or Victorian Country which is soooo not popular in my neck of the woods. You've heard the old game of 'keepin' up with the Jones'? Well, these people bring it to a whole new level. You have to resist that urge to impress others. Your home is about YOU and your family. I have nothing against fancy, schmancy houses - really, I don't. But that's just not what brings me comfort. For me, pile on layer after layer of lace, pink roses, and soft pillows. What brings you peace and serenity?

However, since I also live with 2 men in the house I have a room that's a little less 'girly', but still keeps to our country roots and our heritage of riding and the outdoors. (But if it was just me it would be nothing but pink and white all throughout....just sayin...)

I am very fortunate to have a big back yard. It's completely fenced-in so Sally and Violet have plenty of room to run. I created this little reading/writing nook underneath a tree so I can breathe in the fragrance of our flowers and sit out here and watch the fireflies light up the night sky - just like I did when I was a kid.

There is a busy two-lane highway that runs in front of my house, but nestled amongst the trees in my back yard the only thing I hear is the soft coo of a mourning dove, and other various types of song-birds that make their home in the huge maple tree that shades the above table. I feel like I am a million miles away from the beltway.

There are so many other ways I have learned to simplify my life and I've decided to break it down into several posts. Tomorrow I'll post about where I get some of my inspiration and how I was able to take that leap of faith and jump out of my comfort zone and live my life the way I wanted. Baby steps, Gina. Baby steps.

Til next time,

Kathie

Memphis Booksigning!

2011-06-01T19:31:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness - PLEASE don't be mad at me!! I have missed deadlines galore on "The Hillbilly Debutante Cafe" - my next one has been pushed back to June 17th. In the meantime, tomorrow I am leaving for Memphis for another signing on my current novel "False Victim". If you live in the Memphis area I would LOVE to meet you!!

Here's the skinny:

Hastings Book Store
1245 Germantown Parkway
Cordova (Memphis) Tennessee
1 - 3

When I get back to ol' Virginny on Sunday I am going to crack open the laptop and get back to work. I REALLY think you are going to like the next novel - I really do. If I had to describe it, it would be a "Fried Green Tomatoes" meets "Mayberry RFD" with a bit of "Steel Magnolias" thrown in - sssoooo very different from the creepy, wierd "False Victim".

Have I told you lately that I love you? Well, I do and I really, truly hope you know that. I like hearing from you whether it's facebook, through the comments section or e-mail. I appreciate all of you! AND, I am really excited to meeting one of my blog buddies later in the month - you know who you are!

And a big congratulations to Kat at The London Bob hair salon in Old Town Alexandria.....she 'auditioned' to be my stylist and guess what Kat-baby....YOU'RE HIRED!

(When the teen-age son tells you he likes it you KNOW Mama must be lookin' good).

Until next time,

Kathie

Not in this 'Lifetime'

2011-05-17T16:59:00.000-07:00

Today was supposed to be one of those momentous occasions. My first day of my screenwriters class at Northern Virginia Community College. What? I didn't tell you that I'd planned to go back to school? Yessiree.

This is how it started. Lifetime, at the last minute decided to drop 'False Victim' as one of their projects. (And as for the villains in the book - I KNOW you read my blog just as you drop in from time to time to leave 1-star reviews on Amazon and Barnes and Noble - don't think I'm sitting home pouting about it. I STILL get to keep the money, thank you very much and as the Brad Paisley song goes, 'the more you run my name down the more price goes up i.e. book sales are strong'.)

Anyway, as I was sayin' 'Lifetime' decided not to proceed with the project. They do, however, own the rights until October 5th in which I can pursue other venues, but I probably won't. The fact is "False Victim" is very much a Lifetime genre. It's not a big movie screen plot, and it's a little too raw and 'psycho-drama' for Hallmark.

I did tell Anne, the producer, that I had other ideas for movies that I didn't necessarily want to put in book form, so she encouraged me to take a screenwriters course.

I was so excited to get started - I had looked forward to this class for months. So I get to campus a whole hour prior, drive around and around and around until I FINALLY find a parking space. I peruse campus for a while trying to acclimate myself to my new surroundings. Ten minutes before class starts I find my building. My heart is thumping with excitement. Here I am! ME!! Going back to class after all these years. Then my heart sinks as I see the 'class cancelled' sign.

((sigh)). Oh well. Worse things have happened. I just count it as a 'bad day at the office.'

I do have fun plans for tomorrow though. I am a member of the Salvation Army Ladies Auxiliary and each Wednesday we have tea at a different embassy. Tomorrow is the British Embassy. We're all wearing our hats so it should be a lot of fun. These ladies all know how to dress and while I'm really leary about posting pictures of my friends on my blog I will try to get some pictures to show you.

Until next time,

Kathie

Tiny Mercer's Grave

2011-05-16T19:17:00.000-07:00

When I first started my career, what I really, really wantedto do was to write for my local hometown newspaper. No such luck. They had other ideas for me and that was to sell advertising. Nope. I was hell-bent on reporting the news. So, I high-tailed it to the radio station and within 5 minutes I had a job.

My very first assignment was to find a grave. Not just any old grave, mind you, but Tiny Mercer's grave. Who is Tiny Mercer, you ask? George 'Tiny' Mercer was the first person on death row in Missouri to be executed in over 40 years. Rumor had it, that Tiny was buried in one of the local cemetaries in the next town over.

Please keep in mind this was waaayyyy before 'google', or even the internet. We're talking the early to mid 80's (yes, I'm that old). With that said, back then we reported news the old fashioned way. I researched and asked a lot of questions.

Finally, I'd narrowed my search down to at least 3 cemetaries. I pulled my trusty little pickup truck into the the gravel drive of a country cemetary. I was hoping I could nail this down on my first try. It was a blustery day, and the dark, looming clouds made the November evening seem later than it really was. The last thing I wanted was to be out scouting cemetaries after dark.

I cut the ignition and the old pickup gave a little bunny-hop before the engine stopped. I slipped off my loafers, reached for my green hunter boots and slipped them on, my pant legs bunched up at the top. (This was also long before rain boots, or wellies of any kind were either cute or in style). When I stood up from smoothing my pant legs half-way into the top of the boots, for comforts sake, I noticed two people, obviously grounds keepers working in the distance.

"Ah, great luck! I can ask them if he's buried here or not and I won't have to wander around looking for new grave markers. Then I can move along to the next place." (I knew I wouldn't hit the jackpot on the first try. That NEVER happens).

As I got closer I could see that it was a man and a woman.

"Good evening," I called. Each one of them had a gardening tool of some sort but I really wasn't paying attention. Besides, I'm not the 'gardening type' and I couldn't have told you a rake from a weed-eater.

"Hello, darlin' ", the woman said. Ahhh, I love to be called darlin'. Baby. Sweetheart. I'm a sucker for any kind of term of endearment. Never mind that she was a scary sight. Have you ever seen a woman with jet black hair with white blonde roots? It's kinda scary. Now picture a woman like this, at dusk - in a cemetary. Uh-huh. It magnifies the fear factor just a bit, doesn't it? But I ignore the chill that's just made it's way up my spine. After all....she DID just call me 'darlin'.

"I'm Kathie Truitt, with XXXX Radio and I understand that Tiny Mercer is being shipped back to town for burial. Do you know if he's here?"

"No sugar, I sure don't". She keeps working the ground, ever so calmly, doing whatever it is that cemetary caregivers do.

"Okay, well I guess I'll just keep looking. Thank you so much," I am ever so polite, just as Mama taught me. I backed up and tripped over something, and as I reached out to catch my fall I come face to face with a little silver, shiny, brand-spanking new temporary marker that reads "GEORGE MERCER".

Like a bolt of lightning I jump up, so excited about my dscovery, KNOWING how proud the boss is going to be, "Oh look! He's right here! I found it!"

I no sooner got those words out than the old man, who at this point hadn't made a peep, rammed what I now recognized as a shovel into the fresh dirt and started screaming at me.

"I'm his father and I'm ...." I have no recollection of what he said after that because when the shovel hit the ground I looked down - and I kid you NOT - Tiny Mercer's grave was 1/4 of the way dug up. Yes, you heard me. They were digging! him! up!

At this point all three of us were screaming. Tiny's father, the woman, who informed me rather loudly that she was Tiny's girlfriend, and ME. As their volume increased they kept getting closer to me and all I could think was, 'Gee, I sure never thought I'd die like this."

As I was peeling rubber out of the graveyard, the cops pulled in. Apparently someone at a nearby farm house had heard the screaming and hollering and called the authorities.

Later that night on news stations all across Missouri the lead story was how a young reporter had found two people digging up executed murderer Tiny Mercer's body. It wasn't until I listened to the story that I discovered Tiny's father and girlfriend were within their legal realm as they had exhumation papers. It seems that the State of Missouri gave Tiny a 'free ride home', but it was up to his family if they wanted to move him to his final resting place - which obviously they did. It would have been really nice if Dad and Girlfriend had shared that tidbit with me at the time.

Ah yes, the power of the prayer of a 19 year-old-girl: "Father, I don't know what I want to do with my life....but I do know I want it to be exciting." Tiny Mercer's grave was only the beginning....

More to come....

Kathie

(Sorry, I have no pictures. I tried to google "George 'Tiny' Mercer" and nothing came up - too far back, I suppose).

Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson for Mother's Day

2011-05-08T17:38:00.001-07:00

For whatever reason, when the kids were little I started a Mother's Day Tradition. When they would ask me what I wanted to do for my special day, I always picked what I knew were THEIR favorite activities, rather than mine. After all, how many kids do YOU know that want to go antiquing all day? Sit by the river and watch the Eagles fly over? Or tour George Washington's Mount Vernon for the umpteenth time? Exactly. So instead of dragging them kicking and screaming for a 'boring' drive through Virginia hunt country, they shall for all eternity remember their mother riding "The Intimidator" at Kings Dominion. I know I will. It's hard to forget a ride that goes 0-75 in 1.2 seconds (and I didn't even puke). And yes, I'm sure they'll fondly look back for years to come on trips to the zoo, waterparks, and tasty Mother's Day meals at McDonald's and Chuck E. Cheese's.

While they're both grown now I have still managed to hold on to this tradition. We start off each Mother's Day the same. Church, then lunch at their favorite restaurant.

This year we catered to granddaughter Sophia and went to McDonald's. After she ate half of her chicken nuggets and fed the other half to Uncle William, or 'Wowm" as she calls him, she and her mommy left to start their own traditions. First to see her Daddy at his restaurant "Floriana". Then she and Mommy were going to celebrate her and Daddy's heritage at DC's "Italian Festival." Ciao, Bella (said, of course, in my best hillbilly drawl Italian accent.)

William

Rachael

Sweet Dino was the only one missing from the mix today and he was sorely missed. (I don't know how we got so lucky to have him in our family, but we thank God for him every single day!)

Anyway - back to moi! After the girls left us to go do their own thing, William wanted to treat me to a movie.

"I'll see anything you want, Mom." Seriously, how sweet is that? But I KNOW he doesn't want to see a chick flick, so I inform him that I have been DYING to see 'Fast and Furious - Part 5".

Now, before you start canonizing me into 'sainthood' you need to know.....

Paul Walker.....

Vin Diesel......

and last but most certainly not least

Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson were ALL in ONE movie. Oh yeah......Happy Mother's Day to me!

My Princess Diana encounter

2011-04-28T07:09:00.001-07:00

Growing up I had an affinity for all things English. English country, English clothing (ahem- I wore rubber boots before they were fashionable), English riding and of course, all things English royalty. Keep in mind, this was way back when most people (Americans, at least) thought the monarchy very tedious and dull.

And then SHE came along.....the lovely Lady Diana. I think it can be convincly said that she changed our world - or at least she did mine. I immediately got the haircut. I pored over every photograph, collected every magazine in which she graced the cover, and of course joyfully jumped out of the bed at the crack of dawn on July 29th, 1981 to 'be there' for her special day. Sitting in my living room, eyes glued to the television set, I had no idea that soon I'd be making a move across the 'pond' and not only would I live less than 90 miles from her, but I'd even get to SEE her.

Adjusting to a new country and a new way of life can always be a bit difficult and some of that difficulty I have to say we brought on ourselves. Jay was in the Air Force and when he got his orders I knew right away that I did NOT want to live on base. No way. I wanted to be in the middle of all things British - and that's exactly what we did. I adapted to British customs, British food and made friends with the locals. We were newlyweds and all we could afford was a one-room flat over a hardware store in the small village of Ramsey. We lived there happily for a quite a while, and it wasn't until I was expecting Rachael that we decided to move into a house.

One weekend we took a break from 'setting up house' and took the train into London for Queen Elizabeth's annual birthday parade. My excitement over a possible Diana sighting was thwarted however when the news reported that due to the hot weather, Diana, who at the time was also pregnant (with Harry) would not be riding. Jay asked me if I still wanted to go. Sure. Why not? It's still not ever day that you get to see the Queen ride through the streets on a horse.

So we went.

We took a few snapshots of Buckingham Palace, then walked around London before claiming our spot to watch the parade. Please keep in mind two things. Number one - this was back in 1984 so these pictures aren't the best in the world, and number two - I was 7 and 1/2 months pregnant. It was unusally hot that summer - England isn't known for it's warm temperatures to begin with and this particular summer animals in the zoo were dying due to the unusually extreme temperatures. So, I was hot, tired and grumpy. And ready to go home. But still...I lingered. Smart decision. As the parade starts there is murmuring in the crowd...then excitement fills the air and trickles down the line like a small tidal wave as the news leaks out that Diana WILL be there after all.

But first....we have to wait as other members of the Royal Family are paraded through. The photo below is of the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester. The Duchess is the Queens first cousin and is the 26th in line for the throne.

And finally...here she is, Diana riding with the Queen Mother. The picture, I know is awful, but in real life she was very close. Since I was pregnant people were nice enough to let me stand in the front near the street, and when Princess Diana's carriage went by I got a PERFECT view of her. She faced our side of the street as she waved!!

and there she goes.....

It was only for a few moments, but for me will last a lifetime.

Although April 29th belongs to William and Kate, I think it's safe to say there won't be one single solitairy person around the world that won't also be thinking of Princess Diana on that day.

dreams of a young girl...and Princess Diana

2011-04-27T09:35:00.000-07:00

I was all of 19 when this picture was taken. November 27th, 1981 to be exact. And let's just go ahead and tackle the big elephant in the room. Yes, I know those are some crazy, ugly bridesmaid dresses - but at the time? Oh my. ALL I wanted in life was a Victorian-style wedding, and my mama made sure her little princess got what she wanted. And of course Daddy paid for it. Please keep in mind this was the 80's and I'll also have you know this girl's turn-of-the-century-style-wedding was THE social event of El Dorado Springs, Missouri. So there.

I had no clue what I wanted to do or be at this point in my life. All I knew was that I was madly in love with Jay Truitt. Trying desparately to figure it all out one night I just threw my hands up in the air and in a half-hearted spirit prayed, "God....I don't know what I want to accomplish or do with my life. But I do know that I want an EXCITING one!" I fell asleep that night never really giving it a second thought.

If what He has given me from a 'half-hearted' attitude is any measure then I am sure glad I didn't pray it at full scale because I couldn't have handled any more - EXCITEMENT has become my middle name. Some of you have asked to share my 'past' life and I am more than happy to concur.

And in homage to the upcoming royal wedding...I've decided to start with my brief, but sweet, in-person encounter with the late Princess Diana.

And although a LOT has changed since this country girl prayed for glamour-packed existence, one thing remains the same - I am still madly in love with that Jay Truitt.

Beach Week

2011-04-18T12:36:00.000-07:00

Many of you have sent messages wanting to see pictures of some of the events I've attended lately. I have no author events in April or May (except for a book club in Falls Church, VA later in May) and rather than writing on my next novel like I should be doing I instead been focusing on my social life - something I'd put on hold the past few years. The picture below is what I wore to have tea with the Australian Ambassadors wife at their residence in D.C. with the Salvation Army Women's Auxiliary. Okay, everyone. Keep in my mind I am a writer - NOT a photographer.

Sophia, Grandma and Grandad in front of her Daddy's restaurant - Floriana (on 17th and Q in Washington, DC).

Mr. T and I went to Vegas with some friends for a few days in the middle of March. What fun! While shopping I just happened to run into Tommy Hilfiger. His lovely wife, Dee was sweet enough to snap this photo of us.

I wanted sooooo bad to see Barry Manilow while we were there but I didn't dare ask. Mr. T seeing Barry Manilow is like taking me to see the Monster Truck show - it ain't happenin'. However, Mr. T. pulled off the ultimate surprise and not only did he take me to see Mr. Manilow but we had FRONT. ROW. SEATS!!! Woo-hoo!

Then back home in time for the Capital Speakers Club Fashion Show at Saks in Chevy Chase. (That's me in the hat and my daughter, second from the right). We dined on savory seared tuna with fresh vegetables while watching the models work the catwalk in the latest spring fashions. But, I was only home for a wee bit.

We arrived at the beach house at 5:00 last night. After unpacking my clothes, makeup bag, and putting groceries away I strolled the beach, basking in the glow of a silvery, full moon as the tide roared in and out. Perfect.

We're about 5oo yards from the beach. Our bedroom is on the back side and I always leave the french door open so I can be lulled to sleep by the sound of the waves. I always plan to get writing done while I'm here but there is absolutely no way. Especially not with this view:

And this will be my view for the next 7 days. Sophia is due to arrive with her parents in a couple of hours, so I doubt that you hear from me for the remainder of the stay. As you can imagine it's nearly impossible to write with a 21 month old perched on your lap. Until next time.....

Kathie

2011-04-17T06:19:00.000-07:00

I am currently on break from touring and book signings throughout April and May, but what has been lacking in travel I have more than made up for in fun! My social calendar has been off the radar. It's been wonderful catching up with friends I haven't seen in a very long time. Right now I'm headed to the beach for spring break. When I come back I start my screenwriting class at the local college. And I have to finish "The Hillbilly Debutante Cafe". Actually, 'The HD Cafe" is my main priority. I've already missed two deadlines. As soon as my mother e-mails me pictures (chop-chop, mama!) I will have some to post. Love to all of you! Until next time -----kathie

Shallow

2011-04-06T17:00:00.000-07:00

I've had more than a few people accuse me through the years of being 'shallow.'

I wish.

I would love for the last thought as my big, teased shellacked hair hits the pillow to be about the $595 pair of Manolo Blahniks I saw at Saks today.

Or to be totally focused on finding that perfect product that would reduce the black circles under my eyes that gives me the appearance of being a loser in last nights bar fight.

What's wrong with being shallow, anyway?

Why can't my life be aaalllll about of a closet full of St. John suits. Size 4 St. John suits.

The dictionary lists numerous synonyms for the term 'shallow.'

'empty, flimsy, foolish, frivolous, idle, ignorant, meaningless, puerile and simple'

God, please make me all of these!

Because if I was 'empty-flimsy-foolish-frivolous-idle-ignorant-meaningless-puerile-and-simple' the death of an 11-year-old boy in my neighborhood - whom, I might add, I never knew existed until I saw his picture and the article in the paper - would not phase me.

You see, the self-absorbed 'empty- flimsy- foolish- frivolous-idle -ignorant-meaningless-pueril- and -simple' me wouldn't give a darn because it doesn't affect me.

Even if I could be just three of these - say, 'empty and flimsy, mixed with just a hint of simple', I would not mourn the death of someone else's child, someone I never knew, nor worry about the welfare and impact on his younger brother and sister.

I wouldn't have this incessant need to do the impossible - to take away their pain.

You see, my accusers are wrong. I'm not shallow. Not in the least.

Because how else can you explain the fact that as I lie here in this king-size bed, with the lights out and the curtains blowing gently in the breeze, I swear I can 'feel' a young mothers heart shattering from over 2 blocks away.

Upcoming Book signings

2011-03-29T08:01:00.000-07:00

Back from Vegas and Back to work (more on Vegas later).

Here is my schedule this week. If you have family, friends, and acquaintances in these areas please send them my way. In addition to this, I have an exciting week. I am having lunch with a fan who is going to be in Washington DC on Thursday.

I LOVE meeting you all when I get the opportunity.

Friday, April 1st

Red Oliver Books

307 Williams Street

Fredericksburg, VA

6 - 8 pm

Saturday, April 2nd

Barnes and Noble

Short Pump Shopping Center

Richmond, VA 23233

"If you're going through hell, keep going."

2011-03-16T13:14:00.000-07:00

There are many Sir Winston Churchill quotes I like but the above citation is so relevant (for me).

It bears repeating: "If you're going through hell, keep going."

Face it. We all have problems. Some big. Some small. Whatever 'hell' you're going through right now, please trust me....just look straight ahead and keep marching. I don't care if the devil is dancing in front of you, don't look at him.

Just. Keep. Walking.

I had just about as perfect of a life as a woman could have. Overnight things changed, as if often the case. My walk through the fire was four years.

Four, long, hard, anguished years. I didn't know if I'd ever recover. If I ever could recover.

In almost every book club I have attended (and there have been many), it is inevitable that I'll be asked, "Have you gotten to the point that you're happy that this happened to you?"

The first time I cringed, but politely said, 'no'. On to the next book club, and the next and the next and the next. Each time my response is 'no', but each time I cringed less and replied 'no' with less conviction.

Today I look at my life. My beautiful, wonderful, life. And I can finally say 'yes' - I am thankful for all that has happened.

Dreams that once seemed impossible are coming to fruition. Goals that I was sure weren't meant to be are manifesting. All because of what was put before me.

"If you're going through hell, keep going."

I believe in God and I never doubted for a minute that He would come to my rescue if I did not cave in to the pressure to seek revenge. And the pressure was great. I prayed that my wish for revenge would not over ride my love for God - and I won't lie to you my friends, sometimes it almost did.

But I knew - I knew - I'd get through it and I'd some how, some way, make it the best thing that's ever happened to me. And I did.

My bond with old friends is stronger than ever, and for every 'friend' that betrayed me - God replaced them ten-fold.

You see, I don't care much about material blessings, though God has been gracious in that regard, as well. All I want is all I need.

The most important thing in the world to me is people - being surrounded by those whom I can trust, those whom I love and love me back. And I have that.

Ten-fold from what I used to have.

I knew when I was 'walking through hell' that something wonderful was waiting for me on the other side - I had no clue just how wonderful.

If YOU are making that walk right now, please....just. keep. going. Don't look back. Don't look side to side. Stare straight. And just keep walking. I promise you - NO, GOD promises you, that there is a plan for you on the other side.

Without further adieu, put on that fireproof suit right now. Don't wait! Go!

Your reward is on the other side!

(please share with me some of your stories. I'd love to use some of them as examples for some of my upcoming speaking engagements. I won't use names!)

Kathie

2011-03-15T13:25:00.001-07:00

April 1st - no fooling! - I'll be back to blogging full-time. While I do have some upcoming articles, what would YOU like to see?

I'm open for suggestions, y'all, so please let me know!

(Also, I'm on Twitter, now. Follow me!)

So what happened with the Wagoneer?

2011-03-07T08:53:00.000-08:00

Nothing. Absolutely nothing.

I sent an e-mail to the young man to set an appointment to do a look-see and a test drive. He e-mailed me back and I quote "I found you on facebook and we can talk better there."

WHAT?? My family will be the first to tell you that I'm not techno-savvy, but facebook is NOT easier than e-mail.

Those red flags (also known as: gut feeling or women's intuition) were flying at full mast. Sure enough when I opened facebook he was there.

To make a long story short I told him we'd communicate through e-mail or not at all. Never heard from him again.

So, back to the begining. I'm going to take my sweet time and get the one I really want. Somewhere out there, my friends, is a beautiful Jeep Grand Wagoneer waiting for me.

Now, changing the subject. I want you all to watch Lifetime tonight (Monday, March 7th) at 9:00 Eastern Time.

"He Loves Me" starring Heather Locklear, is premiering, and it's produced by Anne Carlucci, the producer that purchased the book/movie rights for my novel, "False Victim".

Still no word on when that will happen but we did renew our contract last week.

Til next time,

Kathie

2011-03-04T10:00:00.000-08:00

Some of you have inquired about the 1867 Victorian home that I blogged about last October -the one that I fell head-over-heels-hopelessly-in-love with.

Well, we hopped in the car and drove 3 hours south to the most charming little North Carolina town you've ever seen. We met up with our realtor and she gave us the grand tour. This, ladies and gentlemen, was the house I'd waited my whole life for. We came so, so, SO close to purchasing it. But we didn't. ((sigh))

She was in very good shape - especially for her age - but we both (Mr. T and I) knew that we would be spending every waking moment and every spare dollar repairing or replacing something. At the end of the day, even though it was a very romantic notion, we knew that would get old very quickly.

In other news and wishful thinking....

In an effort to resurrect my Hillbilly Debutante persona (aka replacing my long-lost vintage suburban "Dixie) Mr. T and I will be travelling to Fredericksburg, VA on Sunday to check out a Grand Wagoneer woody that I have been coveting for quite some time.

It looks identical to the above photo that I shamelessly pilfered from e-bay in which 20 individuals were involved in a maniacal, frenzied bidding war in which I, most dignifiably refused to participate. (interpret: Mr. T cut off the purse strings. Dang!).

Anyway, that's two things I wanted more than anything in the world that I didn't get (cue up the violins, please) so surely this weekend..... (drying the lone tear from the corner of my eye) well, let's just say I'm hopeful.

On to other things.

Becky Cooper's High School English class
El Dorado Springs, Missouri

January and February were very laid back which allowed me some quality writing time for "The Hillbilly Debutante Cafe" (scheduled for a spring 2012 release).

I was on the road mid-February making a stop in my hometown to give a speech and while there visited my alma mater - El Dorado Springs High School. All the kids were so cute. So young, fresh-faced and seemingly (at least to these eyese) so completely oblivious to the iniquities that wait for them outside the protective walls of what may be the safest place on earth.

They wanted to talk about my book and writing. I put aside my acute longing to give them my 'if I only knew at your age what I know now' lecture and adhered to their wishes.

I wish I could have spent more time with them, but alas United Airlines Flight 3351 to Washington Reagan would wait for no one....

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A reminder that I'll be at Kokopelli on Main Street Annapolis, MD Saturday, March 5th 1-3.

Til next time,

Kathie

2011-03-02T07:52:00.001-08:00

This Saturday (March 5th, from 1-3) I will be in the beautiful maritime city of Annapolis, Maryland for my book signing.

However, this time it won't be the everyday, run-of-the-mill bookstore. No siree.

It's at Kokopelli.

Now, I love to shop in Annapolis, but this boutique is new since I last visited and after doing my research I am super excited about this venue.

Just look below at some of the items just waiting patiently for little ol' me. (You know every southern lady has to have her Brighton and Vera Bradley)

Kokopelli also has hats (be still my heart), jewelry, gifts and oh yes - books!

Oh yeah - this author is definitely looking forward to Saturday!

Family owned and operated for over 21 years, Kokopelli's purpose is to make shopping in our stores a unique and memorable experience.

Started by Jane & Ron Reifler in 1988, Kokopelli now has three locations: Columbia Mall, Towson Town Center, and now in Downtown Annapolis. Daughter, Jill Lehr, now also helps run the company.

Kokopelli sets itself apart from other stores by offering exceptional customer service and unique handcrafted and designed products from all over the world.

Kokopelli... the place to shop!

I want this....

2011-02-23T11:39:00.000-08:00

and I want it right now!

2011-02-10T16:35:00.000-08:00

Believe me when I say I've been busier than a one-legged man in a butt-kickin' contest.

But I love it.

What I'm not lovin' is this weather. I hate being cold. I really shouldn't complain because DC/Virginia/Maryland are tucked into this little dry pocket and all around us from Maine to Mississippi across to Texas, Missouri, and Oklahoma and up north to Minnesota and Michigan everyone is buried in snow. (Knock on wood, we don't have any snow at all.)

Even our 30 degree temps don't compare to some of the 16 and 17 degree days that some of y'all have been experiencing. I talked to my mother on the phone in Southwest Missouri and they were having a 'heat wave' - the mercury had climbed to a whole 6 degrees which was quite a bit warmer than the -11 they'd had earlier in the morning. BBbbbrrrrrr.

(But then with all the hot air comin' out of D.C. it's no wonder we don't have a lot of snow.)

Watching the hard winter across the country reminds me of when Jay and I lived on the ranch and I never knew what kind of critter I'd wake up to find traipsing through my house. Sometimes I'd find 'remnants' of whatever animal it happened to be before I actually saw it.

One frigid February morning in 1988 right about sun-up, I sleepily made my trek to the kitchen to start breakfast, and before I reached the dining room threshold I saw a teeny, tiny little cow patty. I went from room to room but couldn't seem to find the culprit. When I went into Rachael's room the calf was curled up as close to her as she could be, her little head nestled in the back crook of Rachael's knee. It was precious.

Imagine the delight of a 3 year old girl waking up to 'kisses' from this sweet little creature.

(Gives a whole new meaning to the term 'cowlick', huh?).

Jay explained to Rachael that the calf's mother didn't want it so we'd have to take care of it. With an amaing maternal instict and skill that I'd come to recognize and admire 23 years later, Rachael immediately took charge. She named the calf 'Sondra' and insisted on holding the bottle during the many feedings.

Weaning time was difficult but necessary as "Sondra" became so attached to Rachael. Poor Rachael cried her heart out when Sondra was moved to another pasture away from the house. Poor Sondra didn't understand that at 125 pounds and growing she couldn't just run up to Rachael and 'love' on her without hurting her.

Both of them grieved.

But as little girls do, they grow up, move on to other things.

Sondra, on the other hand remained a part of our family until she died of natural causes at age 12.

Hmm....it's amazing how just a little talk about the weather can take you down memory lane.

Til next time,

Kathie

2011-01-24T12:18:00.000-08:00

Hello, dear ones! I don't have time to talk today, but I did want to give you a 'heads up' on when the documentary is scheduled for broadcast.

For those of you coming late to the party, let me first of all extend a 'hearty' welcome!

I am a writer and my novel, "False Victim" (based on a true story) has been made into a documentary to be aired on the ID channel (Investigation Discovery).

The program airs 10:30 ET/9:30 CT on Monday night January 31st.

It's only a 30 minute program so those of you on the East Coast, don't fret - you won't lose too much beauty sleep (wink!)

You also need to know that the producers insisted we change our names since our stalker was never prosecuted.

Our names our Bob and Mary (original, huh?) and the kids names are Nicole and Tyler.

William (Tyler) has never discussed those years. I have tried on so many occasions to get him to open up and talk to me about it and he just refuses. As a matter of fact, he can't even get past the first few chapters of the book, so the reality of him even wanting to answer the reporters questions was amazing to me.

To say that we are eager to hear his testimony is an understatement.

While they will be showing pictures of our family during the time this event transpired, William's face will be blurred during the interview for his protection.

I am still waiting on the 'green-light' for the producers to start filming the movie version. That should be any day now.

Don't hesitate to leave me a comment if you have any questions.

Til next time,

Kathie

2011-01-13T13:21:00.000-08:00

Things are going to change around here. I mean really change.

I haven't liked the direction my writings have been going for quite some time now and I've been contemplating on what the problem is.

I have finally figured it out.

Remember the old days of 'Dixie Road trips', speeding through the Virginia countryside scouting for treasures, pictures of all the beautiful things along the way - a forever reminder of all the adventure (i.e. mischief) of the day. Think back to the light-hearted posts on all of the recipes gone wrong(and there were many), all the goofy mishaps, the moments that had gone awry in a crazy, Lucille Ball-like fashion, and hilarious misfortunes that just seemed to follow me everywhere. And I could laugh at all of it!

So what happened?

(Big sigh) For starters, Dixie is gone. She

crossed the wide Potomac River (and took my heart with her) and is now owned by a formerly vehicle-less family no longer at the tender mercy of the Washington D.C. metro transit system. Now instead of an occasional 'Dixie road trip' she is used every single day travelling at full throttle up and down the Beltway carrying her loved ones to work, school, and so I've heard, wonderful thrift-store expeditions.

I hear she's happy.

Dixie was my sole identity for a long time and because of her I was able to hold on to the last remnant of that 'fun, crazy, free-spirited' girl from the Ozarks.

I bet if Dixie's new family will listen very carefully on a warm summer drive when the windows are down they can hear the ghost of that girl's faint laughter softly echoing through the breeze....

Then came the book.

Oh yes, the book. A huge, wonderful, exciting, monetary blessing - but a sharp, painful, double-edged sword. Writing it was definitely not therapeutic.

But......

it's hard to hate what brought me

here:

not to mention selling the movie rights and the Discovery Channel Documentary that will play on January 31 on Investigation: Discovery.

But somewhere in the midst of all this exhilaration I have gotten lost.

My goodness it's so easy to let that happen in a big city.

It's the fast-paced, break-neck speed and I'm describing the pedestrians - not the traffic! Everyone is in a hurry, no one cares, no one smiles - all robots programmed to full speed, scrambling through a maze, pushing each other out of the way to get to who knows where- do not stop, do not pass go, do not collect $200.

When I stepped outside today it was not the frigid wind or the overpowering fuel fumes that took my breath away. It was the realization that the longer I stay here the more I become them.

Emotionless.

Empty.

I can not let that happen.

I will not let that happen.

Oh no....

I need to do less of

this

and concentrate more on

this

Oh, and most definitely,

THIS

So for the next couple of days you'll find me

here

my very, very favorite spot in the world while I wrap up my manuscript

"The Hillbilly Debutante Cafe"

I simply can not wait to promote this next book -

it is so much more 'me'

the real me

Happy, free-spirited

and

adventurous.

So, if you'll excuse me while I just take a little break, I promise to come back, re-freshed, re-cuperated, and re-focused on bringing back the good old days.

Oh, and some of you have e-mailed about that 'challenge' I talked about earlier.

I haven't forgotten!

Back soon!

Kathie

I'm at The Hillbilly Debutante Cafe

2011-01-03T12:06:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year my friends!!

Even if you're 2010 was as exciting as mine, I'm sure you're still roaring to get started on 2011. There's just something about a new year, a new beginning.

Those of you who have been with me for a while might remember that I started "Hillbilly Debutante" with a 5 year plan. Well, I am now going into the 4th year of that plan and by Christmas 2011 I expect to have achieved every single one of my goals. That's right. I expect to have everything crossed off a whole year early. God is so good to me!

I have something I want to talk to you about and challenge you on....but it'll have to wait.

Right now I have to get busy. I have to finish the mansucript for my new novel, The Hillbilly Debutante Cafe, scheduled for release in October of this year.

When I come back I'll introduce you to 2011's first "Hillbilly Debutante of the Month", and then I'll tell you what I have in mind for your 2011 'challenge'.

Kathie

2010-12-23T07:55:00.000-08:00

I had a big, long article, replete with fancy words to tell you of how much you mean to me and how wonderful this year had been because of you.

I ripped it up and threw it in the trash. Ridiculous.

I am just not a 'fancy-talk' kind of girl.

Don't get me wrong - I have what I consider to be a keen vocabulary.

I make it a point to learn several new words a day, going so far as to write them in a notebook to commit to memory.

I've done this since I was a child which has turned out to be a good thing, given that our lifestyle often requires me to 'hob-knob' with scholars and dignitaries. But even then I don't throw 'big words' around unless the situation absolutely requires it. Sometimes I get frustrated at bloggers, essayists, novelists, and everyday folks who use elaborate words when it's easier just to use common, everyday language. It more often that not comes across as being 'show-offy'. Prententious.

So, I just simply want to say 'thank you.' To those of you who took a chance on this first-time author I can not say that enough....

I have loved every single letter and e-mail you have sent.

I have loved every single book-club I have either visited or conducted over a phone call.

I enjoyed meeting every single one of you at my various book signings across the country (and look forward to meeting more of you next year).

I am appreciative of ever one of you who took the time to join my author fan page and/or friended me on facebook.

My life - my family's life - has changed in a profoundly, positive way because of YOU.

I just can't express my gratitude enough.....

I pray that you have the merriest of Christmases, and that your families are happy, healthy and together this season.

It has been many years since I have looked to the future with hope...and for the first time in a while I look forward to the next year and all the possibilites.

But, in the midst of the excitement of the season and all that accompanies it, let us not forget that 'Jesus is the reason for the season'.

(my daughter Rachael and I in front of the tree in front of her and her husbands restaurant)

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A VERY HAPPY, PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR!

Back in a few days.....

2010-12-20T15:33:00.000-08:00

putting the finishing touches on "The Hillbilly Debutante Cafe" before sending it to the publisher.

It's a rainy day in Virginia....

2010-12-12T06:30:00.000-08:00

which reminds me so much of England. Did I ever tell you I lived in Britain for almost 5 years back in my early twenties? Hmm...no, I don't believe I mentioned it, did I?

Oh well...another time, perhaps.

So this rainy, dismal day means one thing at my house. Soon the main floor will permeate of wet canine. I'm not complaining. Far from it. The only thing missing is the smell of wet boots drying out from their trip to the barn, the aroma of horse blankets, saddles, and sweaty horses. ((sigh))

Go ahead. Laugh, turn up your noses. Make fun of me. I don't care.

Ah yes, if I close my eyes, take in a deep, slow breath my mind wanders back to just 2 short years ago and I can almost smell it.

Wet dogs and horses.

Heaven.

What I'm Reading Now

2010-11-30T06:57:00.000-08:00

The day after Christmas I plan on buckling down and working hot and heavy on my new manuscript to send off to the publisher. In the meantime I am using this lull in my schedule to do something I love even more than writing - reading.

"The Sufficiency of Grace"

Sara Fotopulos

Although this novel fits snugly into the Christian Fiction genre you will be sorely disappointed if you expect an "I-love-Jesus-so-ain't-life-grand-and-sunny" message. The plot is humanistic, coarse, and relevant. You won't be satisfied until you turn the last page and you, probably like me will come to the realization that the we need more Christian authors like this. I predict Ms. Fotopolus will be the "Jodi Piccoult" of this genre, the only difference being that underlying (but not too preachy) message about faith.

"Home to Roost - and other peckings"

Deborah Devonshire

Deborah, The Dowager Duchess of Devonshire is the

youngest of the much-celebrated and often times scandalous Mitford sisters of Britain.

This book is basically a compilation of her earlier speeches as well as scribblings from her diary. Most often very funny (I adore British humor) and sometimes heartbreaking as she opens up her journal to her feelings in the days leading up to the funeral of John F. Kennedy. (The duchess' brother-in-law was married to Kathleen "Kick" Kennedy and was closed to the Kennedy brood when Joseph, Sr. was an ambassador in England).

Please share what YOU are reading.

(Books make great stocking-stuffers.)

Until next time,

Kathie

2010-11-29T09:35:00.000-08:00

I trust you all had a happy and over-abundant day of Thanksgiving. I know we did here at the Truitt household.

It was a busy, busy weekend. Two of our children (son-in-law and daughter) own an Italian Restaurant in Washington D.C.'s DuPont Circle, "Floriana".

Pause a moment while I brag...."Floriana" was recently named one of the top five Italian restaurants in D.C. and the metro area. The restaurant is located at 17th and Q - call ahead for reservations and feel free to name drop (Kathie Truitt) and I am sure you'll get one of the best tables just (snap fingers!) like that.

Anyway, back to Thanksgiving - the kids closed the restaurant for the day and hosted around 20 people for before-dinner cocktails and an exquisite late afternoon meal.

The following night we started what we hope will be a tradition. Rachael, my mother and I took Sophia with us to attend the Potowmack Debutante Reception in Georgetown on Friday night. (More on that to come with photos, of course).

On Saturday night we went to the Debutante Ball, sans Sophia. It was a perfectly lovely, formal evening but definitely not for a toddler. (Pictures to follow in a day or two)

It was also my 29th wedding anniversary. Sorry, no wedding photos - I'm fodder for enough jokes as it is.

I have so much I want to share with you, so much going on but I am limited on time today.

Tomorrow. I promise.

Right now, though, I want to hear about YOU! Yes, you. I am so sorry that I don't get a chance to come over and comment on your blogs - especially those of you that always leave comments (especially you, Miss Dollie D.) but I promise every day I visit everyone on my blog roll and visit all of those who've left comments. I really am interested in you and what's going on.

So, please leave me a line or two and let me know what's going on in your life. It can be good/bad/indifferent. Even if I don't 'talk back' for a while I can always send up a prayer of rejoicing, thanksgiving and encouragement on your behalf.

Until next time,

Kathie

2010-11-24T10:57:00.000-08:00

*Disclaimer: if you haven't read my novel "False Victim: Based on a True Story" then todays post will be totally foreign to you. I apologize, these are things I just need to say. Tune in next week to my regularly scheduled programming*

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving and with the exception of my beautiful family and amazing friends I feel this year I have more than usual to be thankful for. I have a lot of ground to cover so I'll strive to keep this as concise as possible.

Dear Lynn,

It's you whom I am most thankful for. While you worked ever so diligently to destroy my life God was using you to elevate me to heights I didn't know possible. You had no clue that during those years that you were trying to take my child, discredit me, ruin my career and have me (falsely) imprisoned that even then I had made a promise to turn it around and make it the best thing that ever happened me. And with His guidance, I have.

How different my life would be now if Anne, someone I trusted so completely to step forward with the truth, hadn't have let fear of you overrule her sense of decency.

How different indeed.

But that's all in the past. No time to dwell. There are e-mails to be answered from my publicist, readers, movie and documentary producers. There are daily schedules to be checked wondering what city or state I am in from week to week and of course some time in between all these I have to find a few minutes to work on my next novel.

I'm not boasting. No, far from it.

As I said, if it hadn't been for you....

My only hope now is that the people you've done this to your whole life (there are many) can find some sort of peace and semblance.

But most of all my prayer is for the person you're hurting right now - because God knows you can't stop yourself.

**To my dear readers - especially book clubs who've hosted me in your homes this year - I think you understand my desire to vocalize my feelings right now. I am so thankful to all of you. After all what good is it to be a writer if people don't want to buy your book? Thank YOU for taking a chance on this first-time author. My love to all of you and have a wonderful Thanksgiving.**

Where's Kathie?

2010-11-09T06:45:00.000-08:00

I got an e-mail last week from a follower that said they miss my schedule updates. Ask and ye shall receive! Really I should post this more often to keep myself straight because I thought I was supposed to be in Baltimore this weekend. Wrooonnggg. Anyhoo - here it is....my updated schedule!

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Saturday, November 13th

Glen Allen, VA

1-3pm

Borders

9750 W. Broad Street

804-965-0733

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Sunday, November 14th

(pssttt - these events are my favorite)

Private Book Club

Panera Bread

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Thursday, November 18th

Private book club

Alexandria, VA

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Friday, November 19th

11-6

Book Festival

FREE admission and open to public

Holiday Inn

Charlottesville, VA

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Saturday, November 20th

Borders

(time announced later)

8518 Fenton

Silver Spring, Maryland

301-585-0550

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Wednesday, December 1st

6-9pm

Stratford Elementary School

Alexandria, VA

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Saturday, December 4th

Borders Express

(time announced later)

8200 Perry Hall Bvld.

Baltimore, MD

410-931-7383

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Thursday, December 9th

John Alexander Chapter, DAR

Private Book Club

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Friday, December 10th

10-2

Borders

Baltimore Washington Airport

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Wednesday, December 15th

11:00 - 4:00

Pen Lovers Paradise

2488 North Landing Road, #112

Princess Anne Shoppes

Virginia Beach, VA

757-427-1887

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There's nothing I like more than meeting my readers and fellow bloggers - except tromping through mud and muck of a horse barn in my favorite wellies. But other than that, there's nothing I love more.

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(if you're passing through blogland please take a moment to leave me a comment. I'll come over and visit your blog as soon as possible!)

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Kathie

2010-11-06T18:17:00.000-07:00

3 and 1/2 - number of days I had Sophia (granddaughter) while my daughter went to New Orleans to a wedding.

3 and 1/2 - number of days I went without a shower because she wouldn't let me out of her sight.

2 - number of times she screamed if I tried to put her down.

0 - number of times I walked around a three-story house without her sitting on my left hip.

12 - number of times I went to the bathroom with her sitting in my lap for the same reasons listed above.

5 - number of times she played 'chef' with the dog food.

6 - number of times I caught her eating the dog food.

3 - number of times I successfully pried the dog food from her mouth.

1 - the number of times she screamed because she didn't want to sleep in her crib.

3 - the number of nights she slept clinging to Grandma.

24 - the number of joints and muscle-aches Grandma has from sleeping in one position for 3 nights with a 19 pound toddler curled up on her chest.

13 - the total number of open mouth kisses that Sally the lab/husky mix got from Sophia for the whole weekend.

4 - pieces of dog food Grandma found stuffed in the silverware compartment of the dishwasher.

2 - number of hours Grandma cried after taking Sophia back home.

8 - hours of sleep Grandma expects to get tonight as she prepares for bed.

50 - number of years Grandma hopes to spend with Sophia

and

3 - number of the pieces of dog food Grandma just found under her pillow....

'til next time,

Kathie

Just this once I'm going to cheat....

2010-11-01T16:50:00.000-07:00

You all LOVE the Hillbilly Debutante of the Month segment but this month I have just been consumed with author/book tour duties and I just have not had time to work on it. I do have a nominee but I want to be able to do her justice, so I'll feature her for December.

However, I'm not leaving you in the lurch for a November HDOM. I'm just going to do it a little different this time.

I'd like to name Mia at http://aspiring-homemaker.blogspot.com as honorary Hillbilly Debutante of the Month.

I found her blog by accident on Sunday and I spent all afternoon reading it back to the beginning.

I think you will love her - especially my readers who love the simple life.

Mia and her family gave up a life in the suburbs to move to the country and live as 'homesteaders.'

This young lady is absolutely precious and I promise if you go over and visit her you'll love her.

WARNING: Mia's blog is ONLY to be read when you have time to spare. You will NOT be able to walk away from it.

Thank you, dear reader for your understanding, but mostly thank you SO much for your support. Book sales are awesome and I found out from my publisher that I am a best-selling author!

Until next time,

kathie

GREAT NEWS!!

2010-10-29T14:12:00.000-07:00

I just saved 15% on car insur.....no, wrong good news.

Actually, I lost 3 pounds on my first day with Nutri-System (and I even had a handful of candy corn!). Yea!!

And no, Nutri-System is not paying me to endorse their product.

I know myself too well. If I know that 1200 people a week (the average hits I get) are watching then I'm more apt to stick with it.

That and the 300$ I spent.

Outfit of the Day.....

2010-10-26T08:37:00.000-07:00

Naahh, not really.

I'm using this as my 'before' photo. I ordered my Nutri-System package yesterday and am expecting to get it in the mail any day now.

Sitting on your butt writing all day is NOT, I repeat NOT good for the figure. Yes, I do exercise. I walk the dogs several times a day but somehow I think stopping to sniff and pee at every mailbox (the dogs, not me) doesn't burn too many calories.

Anyway, I have to do something. With all this travelling if I gain anymore weight the airlines will start charging me for two seats.

By the way, anyone you'd like to see for Hillbilly Debutante of the Month? Send your nominations in!

'til next time,

Kathie

Do you know the answer to this question?

2010-10-25T07:59:00.001-07:00

There are tons of 'preppy', 'trad' and 'wasp-y' writers out there in the wild, blue yonder we call 'blogland' and I love every single one of you to death! Some of my favorites are "Summer is a Verb", "Social Climbers" and "The Daily Prep" and 'Maxminimus', on whom I have a secret crush.

There are just as many that focus on vintage clothing (The Vintage Housewife) - Muah! big fat red lipstick kisses to all of you!

But what if you're more Elizabeth Taylor than Jackie Kennedy? Nan Kempner than CZ Guest? Joan Collins than June Cleaver?

Look, I am aware of what they say about us Northern Virginia and D.C. women. Come closer and I'll whisper it in your ear - We're Hollywood for ugly people!

Whoever coined that phrase was looking for love in all the wrong places because I can assure you that there is glamour galore in our nations capital - it's just not on Capital Hill.

I am well acquainted and quite friendly with the many glamourous ladies who lunch (ahem - none of which are 'D.C. Housewives'). These gals don't reserve their glamour for the nightlife, either. No siree. They are all dolled up whether they're puttering around the house, attending a fashionable luncheon, or dancing the night away at one of the many galas.

So, once again I ask you, where are the glamour bloggers? I need inspiration!

Pictures from my book signing in Maryland

2010-10-19T10:01:00.000-07:00

My book tour schedule is jam-packed from now until a few weeks before Christmas, so writing may be very sporadic. I haven't even touched my new manuscript in over a month. Yikes!

Here are some pictures from the private book signing at the beautiful estate of Tom and Susan Kreamer.

It's the best of both worlds. A small farm that backs up to the bay. Photos don't do it justice.

Enjoy!

I have been looking for 'HER'...and I've found her..

2010-10-15T14:02:00.000-07:00

....my style icon.

Yeah, go ahead. Snicker about how vain and shallow I am. You're probably 23 and have no clue what it's like to 'feel' 19 but pushing 50 and try to find something fun to wear thats's not trashy or it's polar opposite sister - frumpy. And sometimes it is so freaking hard to discern where the cut-off line is! There doesn't seem be anything in between the 'Brittany Spears' or 'Mrs Doubtfire' realm. It's one extreme to another.

For instance take these over-the-knee boots.

Yep they're mine and that's me in the above picture.

I do always tend to gear towards the 'edgy' stuff. Big jewelry. Unique accessories. Lots of makeup. Short, spiky, funky hair. No matter how hard I try to go 'clean and classic' I always go back to 'edgy'.

Anyway, back to the boots. I wanted to wear them on my book tour, but was kind of scared. Were they too young? Could I pull these off without looking like some over-the-hill tart?

The night before I left I tried them on with a leopard print shorter tunic-style top with leggings. (disclaimer: the tunic waaaay more than covered my butt. Show the ol' buttster? Ain't gonna happen).

Me (to 16-year-old son William): "Can I wear this?"

(Man, how I miss my daughter in times like these)

William, annoyed that I am standing between him and ESPN: "Yeah."

Me: "No, I mean would you be embarrassed if I picked you up from school wearing this?"

Will: "No."

Me: "Okay, what if we were walking through the Mall - would you be embarrassed to walk beside me?"

Will: "No."

Me: "What if it was a high school football or basket ball game?"

Will, (now extremely annoyed): "Mom, it looks okay. Really, I mean it. If you don't mind I'm watching the game!"

Me (almost falling for it): "Oops sorry....wait a minute! It's Wednesday night! There's no football."

William (now really disgusted): "I know, Mom. It's last weeks Cowboys game - ESPN always plays re-runs."

So, I stomp downstairs to Mr. T.

Me: "Can I wear this?"

Mr. T (in a very seductive, come-hither voice): "Oh Baby, you sure can."

Me (ignoring him because he's completely missing the point): "No, I mean...really, can I wear this? Do I look like a 48-year-old woman trying to be 25 again?"

Mr T: "Oh yeah, you can definitely wear that. Come over here and I'll show you just how much you can wear that, hee, hee.."

Giving up, I get the camera, make him take a picture and send it to my daughter who quickly texts me back, "Yes, Mom. You can wear that. It looks really nice, and yes. Age appropriate."

Bingo! Now how hard was that?

So, I wore the outfit and as far as I know no one burst into fits of laughter, nor did Mama faint or ask me if I was 'really going to wear that,' so I suppose it looked alright.

I've heard that throughout our life, we need to have a style icon. Someone who is our age or even older. A fashion mentor.

I finally found mine.

Her name is Barbara Daseke and she's the President of Barbara Elliott Interior Designs in Dallas.

I love everything about her. I love that she goes against the mainstream and seems to have a ball with fashion.

I love that she wears lots of color.

Texas women aren't afraid to show their glamorous side. They were lots of makeup, lots of color - and are bold when it comes to fashion. I'll betcha 10 bucks Mrs. Daseki doesn't stand between hubby and the television and whine, "Don, would you be embarrassed if I wore....".

I'm betting that the glamorous Mrs. D owns whatever she decides to put on and whoever doesn't like it can kiss her Texas grits.

She oozes that kind of confidence.

(fashion shoot photo shamelessly stolen from Mrs. Daseke's facebook page)

Barbara and her handsome husband, Don
(Both are well-known in Dallas social and philanthropy circles)

After perusing the 'net for about an hour, I got the nerve to message her and then 'friend' her on facebook. And much to my delight, she accepted.

So Barbara - if you're reading this I want you to know that I've worn the pictures out on your Facebook page.....Ummm...can you please post new and post often?

And um....is it too early into our friendship to ask for your cell phone number? When I shop I can take a picture, text it to you and ask if this is a "SBWW" - something Barbara would wear. Okay, maybe that's a little too forward....

To my readers - WHO is YOUR style icon?

Until next time,

Kathie

It has been wonderful meeting so many of you on my book tours! I love it! This weekend I'm doing a private book signing in Kent Island, Maryland and next week I'm doing a signing in Borders at Baltimore Airport! If you're passing through or know someone who might be flying in and out please send them my way.

P.S. Scroll down to see October "Hillbilly Debutante of the Month" if you haven't already.

Book Tour pictures for you to review (because I'm too lazy to actually write something)

2010-10-11T19:13:00.000-07:00

Barnes and Noble in Columbia, Missouri

My girl Carrie Edwards

Private Book Club in Fredericksburg, Virginia (these are my favorite!)

Mrs. Missouri 2002, Mrs. Missouri 1996 and Mrs. Missouri 1999
(Natalene Johnson, Yours Truly and Sonya Wise)
at Barnes and Noble in Springfield, Missouri

Blanche Robison and her son Kevon in Borders at Springfield, Virginia
(Blanche is actually Blanche Burns in the book)

One of my favorite people in the world - Jose, at Barnes and Noble in Columbia, Missouri. He lived with us for a while and I consider him a member of our family as much as if he was my own brother! (Gals, he's single!)

Whew! What a whirlwind few weeks. I'm home for a couple of days then off to Kent Island, Maryland for another private signing.

'Til next time,

Kathie

(ALSO: scroll down to meet October's Hillbilly Debutante of the Month)

On the Road Again & Hillbilly Debutante of the Month...

2010-10-07T07:44:00.000-07:00

I'll be signing my book "False Victim" in Barnes and Noble in Columbia, Missouri Friday night October 8th from 6-9.

Then I'm packing up and headed south to Springfield, MO at the Barnes and Noble on Glenstone/Battlefield. You can catch me from 1-3.

Click on the link below for more information/synopsis of the story

www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore/book.php?w=978

Now hold on a sec....before you go pushin' that delete button scroll below and check out our beautiful Hillbilly Debutante of the Month for October.

Hillbilly Debutante of the Month - OCTOBER

2010-10-04T07:13:00.001-07:00

Today's post is extra-special because not only are you meeting October's "Hillbilly Debutante of the Month" but you are getting an incredible visual treat. Nothin' but eye candy, y'all.

Ladies and Gentleman, meet Kim of Bella Della. Kim - it's all yours.

The Simple Life

Kim of Bella Della Farm

"I definitely lead a simple life. And I work to keep it that way.

I work.

I commute.

I spend time with my husband and family. We love amusement parks and football. We love eating out and our trips to Target.

We tend to keep to ourselves.

I'm a thrifter and a coupon girl. I think it's safe to say that most everything in my life is second-hand - my house, furniture, accessories, and most of my wardrobe.
Even my pantry is filled with freebies.

I am a coupon nerd. I have a binder.
One of my favorite things is to get up early on Saturdays and hit the road looking for yard sales.

I love the thrill of the hunt and the wind on my hair and country tunes blaring on the radio.

I lead a simple life and I think I'm a simple girl.

Okay, I can be a tiny bit high strung, controlling and opinionated, but still simple.

I don't ever pretend to be anything that I'm not.

I'm real.

I like to thing I'm pretty funny.

I read something recently that said "I can speak three languages - English, sarcasm and profanity."

Amen.

My family and Fella show love in three ways:

hugs, kisses and endless teasing.

I'm the girl that wears a $3.99 thrifted dress to her downtown 9 to 5 job and I don't hesitate to meet a compliment with 'thanks, it was was $4.00'.

I'm the girl that can rub elbows with industry executives at fancy dinners. But fancy at my house means springing for the Bounty towels under the silverware. I'm clueless about silverware. I don't know what side it goes on and I don't really care. I'm more concerned about how my gravy turns out.

Bella Della

It's my home. It's my 'pretend' farm. It's my blog. It's me.

Belladellasfarm.blogspot.com

One woman's story of her little farm and old general store...decorating, yard sales, vintage, trash to treasure, the garden, family, friends, the beagles, the cats and one wonderful, amazing husband - otherwise known as the fella.

The name just came to me one day.

I had stumbled upon the wonderful world of Kim McCole at Dear Daisy Cottage and I was hooked.

I decided to dive into Blogland and it would be known as

Bella Della Farm.

Della is my Grandma's name.

She passed when I was nine. But she's always with me and gosh, she would love all this stuff.

The Little Farm

The fella and I set out one Autumn Saturday to just browse (drive-by) a few houses. Well, we pulled into the driveway of the little farm and never left.

Picture me with my face plastered to the windows of the old general store

(pictured below).

I staged sort of a dream house/real-estate sit -in.

By dinner time we had a contract.

That was three years ago.

We have a little over 6 acres.

Along with the house we were blessed with the store, a barn and a chicken coop.

The ultimate accessories if you ask me.

I always sort of giggle to myself when I use the word 'farm' to use our home.

It might be a bit of a stretch or maybe not.

Most days it feels more like the funny farm than a real farm.

We grow more weeds than crops.

And by crops I mean corn, beans, tomatoes and cucumbers.

We have no farm animals.

I'm pretty sure pretending to own the neighbors cows do not count.

We don't own a tractor but the Fella does look cute on his John Deere.

But on the other hand, I've been known to parade around the yard in my overalls.

I own cowboy boots and I'm not afraid to use them.

We have a garden and its in front of the barn.

While we have no chickens in the chicken coops and no cows in the barn, we do have all the old fence posts, a daily reminder that Bella Della was a working farm in her former life.

I know what tobacco sticks are and whippoorwills.

And I love the smell of tractor fuel.

We definitely live in the country.

We live in a rual county that has one stop light, and one grocery store, and a small newspaper. A newspaper that keeps reporting we have bears in the area. To which the Fella says, "Well, you wanted to live in the country."

True.

Our county has more cows than people.

And they make great neighbors.

The cows, that is."

Congratulations to Kim of http://belladellasfarm.blogspot.com/

Hillbilly Debutante of the Month

(If you'd like to nomimate someone (or yourself!) for future HDOM e-mail their name and info to kathietruitt@msn.com

Hillbilly Debutante of the Month

2010-10-03T17:14:00.000-07:00

REVEALED TOMORROW!

Please forgive me for being a bad blogger. Last week I had events every night of the week and today is the first day I've had free. Today I had to stop and do laundry or poor Mr. T and Will would have to had to go to work/school naked. Well, not completely. They have plenty of clean socks and underwear.

Anyhoo...tomorrow I shall work on uploading pictures of Miss October. She is definitely worth the wait! You'll love her!

2010-09-24T11:27:00.000-07:00

Here is the new HD logo and soon I'll have t-shirts and sweat shirts available. I have no clue if this is something y'all would be interested in or not but I'll have to have one in every color and a few of my friends requested one. I want to test the waters with the t-shirts first and if they go over well I'm going to have denim jackets embroidered (my mom is a pro). I'll talk more about that later. Drop me a line if it's something you might like - (the t-shirts will be cute and fitted, not a basic tee)

Remember this beautiful gal?

My husband and I went to meet her. It was love at first sight and she is a major possibility. If I had my way we'd move in tomorrow, but of course Mr. T is the practical one. Wait and see what happens!

Until next time,

Kathie

If you think being a writer is glamorous...

2010-09-20T07:57:00.000-07:00

then allow me to show you the flip side of the coin.

I've had amazing book signings, sales and reviews. Here's what my publicist told me to expect as an unknown, first time author. Unless you're a political celebrity or a NY Times bestseller the average books you will sell at a booksigning event are - get this - 3. With that said, I have been selling anywhere from 16-50 per event. I've had awesome reviews on Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

But THEN last Saturday rolls in .....

First of all let's back up a bit. I have kept my promise to you. Remember? The one to bring you along every step of the way from writing the story, to finding a publicist, publisher and the whole nine yards? The promise to tell you the good, the bad and the ugly?

Well Saturday was ugly. I won't tell you where the book signing was because 1) they were kind enough to have me, and 2) my bad day wasn't their fault.

The positive aspect was that 7 friends showed up and supported me and I love them dearly for it! Thank you Whitney, Jennifer and Che, Sean and Anita, Carol and Bob.

When they weren't there I sat alone. For 4 hours. No one speaks, smiles, makes eye contact or acknowledges me. Well, except for the lady that snarled at me. Does that count?

I don't want to give aspiring writers out there the notion that people are just waiting behind a velvet rope with tons of security and I'm strutting in on the red carpet to sit down and sign to thousands of cheering people.

I'm not crazy about signings to begin with. Those first few minutes are evil. People are curious but they're afraid you're going to give then a hard sell. Usually I have my assistant come with me to pass out push cards that give the synopsis of the book in one short paragraph. She gently chats with them about the book, lets them know the move rights have been sold and Discovery filmed a documentary.

But alas my trusy sidekick couldn't make it Saturday so I was on my own. (JQ I missed you!!) I couldn't wait to get outta there!

A very large lesson in humility, right? But wait! More lessons on the way.

I check my ratings today. One 4-star and nine 5-star ratings on Amazon and the reviews are awesome. Yesss! Then I click over to Barnes and Noble. Yesss!!! Two more 5-star ratings and two great reviews.

Now over to Goodreads to see those rave reviews...huh?

Two, 2-star ratings. And one bad review. And since I have vowed to be honest with you I'm even gonna share the review.

"Interesting story. Poorly written." Ouch.

(She also hated bestseller, "Eat, Pray, Love" so at least I'm in good company.)

So what do you do when your ego takes a double whammy in one short weekend?

Pout. Analyze it. Vow to never write again. Pout. Blog. Did I mention pout?

Then you pull yourself up by your boot straps and ask yourself this one burning question.

Do you love to write? Do you exist to write? Is it the first you think about in the morning and the last thing you think about at night? If you can answer 'yes' then you take out pen and paper and you write again. And again, and again, and again.

Which is what I'm preparing to do. Full time. "False Victim" is doing well enough that I'm able to leave my job behind and make writing my full time career.

So no more time for pouting. I have a new manuscript that needs to be finished by December.

Until next time....

Kathie

Lord help me, I'm having an emotional affair!

2010-09-16T15:10:00.000-07:00

And it's with this house.

I want this house.

2010-09-08T18:39:00.000-07:00

Dear September 10th,

Here we are again for the 23rd year in a row, staring each other down like mortal enemies. Maybe it's time we have that talk that's long overdue.

First of all, I don't like you - that's no secret. But this next admission just might surprise you - I have come to realize that my dislike for you isn't totally fair. You're not the only day to blame. Nope, September 9th needs to 'man up' and share some of that burden as well.

After all, September 9th you were the one that started this. Don't look at me like that - you know what you did! It was YOU we were marvelling at with the golden autumn sunshine, warm temperature and your blue cloudless sky before you sucker punched us with the news that our baby's heart stopped beating. It was YOU that continued to happen as the world spinned on it's axis, while ours came to a screeching halt. You went on and on with your beautiful self just like everything was perfect while we waited to give birth to a little boy that would never breath your air. It was YOU that passed by so slowly, holding onto him until you could force him out into the wee hours of an innocent, unsuspecting new day. How very clever, thinking you could shrink away and be forgotten as if him coming into this world on a different day would absolve you of any wrong.

But on the other hand September 10th, it hasn't helped your case that every year - and it doesn't matter how deep of a sleep I'm in - my eyes fly open at exactly 30 minutes past midnight - the exact time that sleeping angel entered our world.

Every year the week leading up to you I beg God for something wonderful to happen on September 10th This Year. Something that we can remember for all time - that magical 'Something' that will fill that awful, empty void you left us with.

'Please Jesus - let me win the lottery.... get that promotion.... that house.... or at the very least make me thinner on this day.'

This year I decided to 'get tough' by prepping myself and repeating the following over and over.

'You need to let this go, Kath. He was only a baby - it's not like you really knew him. It's not like Cheri Allison's Nathan, or Maretta Smith's Shawn - young men that were taken in their prime - Jayson was 'just' a baby.'

Yes, but he was my baby.

So you see, Sep - I can call you Sep, can't I? Unless you know somethin' I don't, we'll be meeting here again next year - and the next, and the next...

But here's a cold hard fact - you won't win at this game. I may die tomorrow, or I may die at 105. But when I get where I'm goin' - as the song goes - there'll be only 'happy tears' and you won't even be a memory.

And looonnggg after you're gone - don't look so surprised - you know what the Good Book says - time (that's you) will pass away - and our relationship will come to an abrupt halt. But until that happens I suppose I'll just deal with you the best way I know how. I'll go ahead and feel what I feel and gather up a years worth of strength until our next meeting. After all, it is what it is...

Kathie

Hillbilly Debutante of the Month (September)

2010-09-06T17:20:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to introduce you to the very first ever

Hillbilly Debutante of the Month.

Magical - that's the first word that came to mind when I brought my vintage, pink bicycle to a screeching halt in front of Kit Gulyas' Alexandria, Virginia home. Nestled between stereotypical WASP-y Federal style homes on a shady, tree-lined street, every evening I would ride my bike back and forth hoping to catch a glimpse of the person who called this precious cottage home.

I knew the owner had to be someone confident because they hadn't succumbed to the pressure of conforming to the cookie-cutter decor of the large and stately homes surrounding her. She was someone who paid attention to detail, but threw decorating rules out the window. Someone clever with an overactive imagination - and oh yeah. She was cool, too. I was sure of it.

I was not disappointed.

When I arrived at Kit's door on a hot, sultry August afternoon she greeted me at the door with a frosty glass of fresh lemonade. Casually elegant in a pair of faded blue jeans and worn-out cowboy boots she gave me a quick tour of the house before we sat down for her interview. (Afterward she gave me free rein to roam through the house and shoot photos.)

(Kit Gulyas)

(One word says it all)

Kit's storybook cottage is a reflection of what she calls a storybook life. The oldest of nine children in an Irish/Catholic family she was raised in New York City in a neighborhood where her maternal family was on one street, and her paternal family on the next. She describes her mother as having tons of energy and one that always saw the cup as 'overflowing.' The apple doesn't fall far from the tree.

(her cowboy boots are leftover from her college days. Best friend Phoenix is never far away)

It's hard to imagine now, but when the Gulyas' bought their cottage

in 1984 it was dark, confined, and very small.

"This was two rooms," Kit says as she points to the desk behind me and then motions her arms to the other side of the room near the stone fireplace. "We removed the wall and added these heavy wooden beams to the ceiling and made it into a great room."

After painting the walls a light, airy beige she set about decorating.

"It's been heart and soul. Everything is flea market and thrift shop finds."

In the day-to-day fast-pace of the Washington, D.C. area, Kit has made a conscientious decision to live life simply and surround herself with things that mean something to her.

Among her prized possesions is her assortment of colorful, vintage camp blankets.

(more camp blankets)

She had no clue that that 'heart and soul' attitude toward decorating and her obsession with antiques would soon carve out a new lifestyle. After almost 30 years of working in non-profit, like many Americans, Kit found herself jobless.

"You know I wasn't the least bit concerned," she muses. "I'd always been able to find a job easily and I thought with my experience I'll find another job in no time."

But with the current economical down-turn, Kit found that she couldn't even get a foot in the door for an interview.

"I found that every H.R. director in the city had at least 5,000 applications to weed through and most of them were willing to do my job for next to nothing. It was impossible to compete. "

Not one to sit around and wait for opportunity and with the energy no doubt inherited from her mother, Kit wasted no time. While her husband, George was out of town she listed both spare bedrooms for rent. When George returned home two days later he was introduced to two new 'members' of the family.

So now with some of her income made up and extra time on her hands, she devoted more time to decorating.

"It's a good thing I'm not blind," George said. "Everytime I come home something has been moved."

Kit admits to often waking up in the middle of the night with an idea and will jump up to completely redecorate the room while it's still fresh in her mind.

It was during one of her midnight tirades that the idea of a new business was conceived.

"Vintage Skout" was created to serve several purposes with the most important one being giving Kit something to do to burn off her excessive energy.

"The first year after I lost my job I read books, which was fine for a while, but I was so used to being productive that it was very difficult for me to just 'settle down.'"

So she decided to turn her love for decorating and shopping for antiques into a business.

Kit serves as a personal shopper for the homeowner who is too busy or simply doesn't have a clue as to where to begin. Soon, clients will be able to host 'Vintage Skout' parties in their homes where Kit loads her latest booty up and puts it on display in the hosts home (by invitation only).

Once a month passers-by can take advantage of the loot during a tag sale on Kit's front lawn, which is how I met Kit.

Next on the agenda for Vintage Skout is making her cottage available for wedding showers, baby showers, rehearsal dinners and small parties.

(a few of the primitive dolls Kit creates - she also has a line of primitive ornaments)

This room divider which stands in front of the fireplace is decorated in son Barret's childhood artwork)

(another look at her primitives on display)

This is a view of one of the guest bedrooms (currently being rented out) from the threshold.

Make a pivotal turn and this is what you see:

It's all one room!

Master Bedroom

My favorite - I am such a sucker for a sun room.

View from the sunroom into the great room.

Nothing is left untouched by Kit's creative hands! Even the back yard fence oozes charm!

If you've been searching the world over for something specific and it's alluded you why not drop Kit a line? Chances are she has what you're looking for or she knows exactly where to find it!

kitgulyas@yahoo.com

Until Next Time,

Kathie

P.S. If you'd like to nominate someone for November's Hillbilly Debutante of the Month send to: kathietruitt@msn.com

(October's has already been chosen!)

The season of new beginnings

2010-09-06T09:08:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow you'll get to meet your first ever "Hillbilly Debutante of the Month."

I've been meanin' to do this for quite some time and thought why not September? For me after Labor Day marks the season of new beginnings. New school year, new season, weather starts to change a bit, the city jumps back to life as the 'beachers' start to file back in - and I mean that in the literal sense. Unless you've seen Highway 95 backed up from Virginia Beach to Washington, DC you don't really know the term 'file' - as in single. Bumper-to-Bumper. Not moving. For 120 miles. Uh-uh.

Anyway, I'm getting off track - why do I always do that?

Hillbilly Debutante of the Month?

Who is she?

HDOM is sassy, independent, living life as she chooses, not the way others think she should. She's a high school girl, college girl, single independent woman or married mother of 12. Maybe she is similar to the 90 year old woman in my neighborhood that rides her bicycle every day in her wellies (love it!).

Hillbilly Debutante of the Month can be the woman who gets in the car and drives to the office or perhaps her home is her career. She is any and every woman who stands out - is unique and lives life on her terms. The one thing Hillbilly Debutante of the Month isn't? Boring.

And here's the best part - YOU will get to nominate who you'd like to see wear the HDOM 'crown' in the future! That's right - starting now send in your nominations for the upcoming months. Just e-mail me a short paragraph of your nomination, along with some photos attached and I'll forward them on to the committee! (It would be great if that person has a blog, but it's not necessary).

You're in for a real treat when you meet "September."

Oh, and did I mention there will be a little surprise gift for each Hillbilly Debutante of the Month?

Kathie

Baubles and Sequins, Country roads and fishin'

2010-09-02T17:35:00.000-07:00

So the above necklace, I know, is probably overkill with the sequin collar, but guess what? I don't care. It was a gift from Ruthann from SugarPie Farmhouse and it's now my favorite piece of jewelry. Besides, it fits my personality. Baubles and sequins. Together. Over the top and too much. Just like me.

Oh, I've tried to change, trust me. I've finally learned to embrace it and keep myself in check at appropriate times. For example, I would never wear baubles and sequins to a funeral. My cowboy boots, yes...but never baubles and sequins. To my own, heck yeah! - I expect to be all dolled up....but that's another story.

While I was travelling the Midwest sweating over a hot pen signing books, my family was takin' it easy...

But just between you and me it wasn't all work and no play.

A huge part of the simple life is taking the road less travelled and I do that every chance I get. On the way to my Kansas City appearance I decided to drive down an old dirt road I used to live on when I was a little girl.

The weather brought a slow, gentle rain. Everything was so peaceful, so quiet. Absolutely nothing had changed in the past 40 years. No buildings, no sprawl, no paved roads. Just solitude. And corn. Lots of corn.

If it was a perfect world this next scene would always be in my front windshield - not in the rearview window.

Oh well. God didn't promise 'perfect', did He? Even though I'm 'stuck' in the city, I still think my life is as close to 'perfect' as it could possibly be. Hallelujah!

Until Next Time,

Kathie

Book Tour pictures - Part one

2010-09-01T18:28:00.000-07:00

Missouri Book Tour

Barnes and Noble on the Country Club Plaza in Kansas City - a great turnout for a Tuesday night.

Me and the fantabulous crew at ABC Books in Springfield, Missouri. First of all I gotta tell you that store managers and their staff are always amazing. I have never (knock on wood) had a bad experience, but Valerie Earheardt and her employees are just soooo, genuinely nice. There is just something to be said for a locally-owned business. They're different. I compare it to being in someones home and they've invited all these people to come and browse through their books.

If you live in the Ozarks or you're passing through - it is a popular vacation destination, after all - why don't you pop in to ABC at 2109 North Glenstone, Springfield, Missouri and pick out a book to read poolside. (Ahem! May I suggest "False Victim" - I hear it's an intense, quick read and I know the author would be pleased if you bought it).

(signing a copy of False Victim for Mike and Carla Green)

The BEST part of this trip? Meeting facebook friends and bloggers I'd never met before. Mike Green (above) is an 'accidental' facebook friend that I decided to 'keep.' (me on the phone with Mom: "Did the Mike Green that I graduated with leave Patty for some woman named Carla that has a bunch o' kids that look just like him?")

And when this beautiful woman walked through the door - oh my! - you'd have thought Elvis had just entered the building! It's RuthAnn Winans aka "Aunt Ruthie" from the wonderful, wildly popular

"SugarPie Farmhouse".

It was a dream of mine to meet here and there she was - at my book signing.

I made a such a fuss that I think it embarrassed her (she's very gracious and down to earth) but I couldn't help it! And with every book I signed I added 'SugarPieFarmhouse.com' so everyone else could see why I am so star-struck.

Basking in the warm beauty of a sunlit Kansas City sky!

At Borders in Springfield, Missouri with my very dear friend Susan Kennemer (we were both in radio together too long ago)

and so were we!

I co-hosted the morning show with my former boss Rod Kittleman at the Christian Station KADI, Rock 99. That 2 and 1/2 hours was just like old times, like we'd never stopped working together. Rod is still someone I call when I'm making changes in my life and I want to know what he thinks. Love, love, love him! Andthe best part about Rod? Radio is an uber-competitive, back-stabbing, claw your way to the top type of business and not once did I see him act anything less than the Christian gentleman he is.

Before you head up and move 'em out please check out my new author website:

http://kathietruitt.tateauthor.com/

Until Next time,

Kathie

All Day with the Film Crew

2010-08-31T06:29:00.000-07:00

The film crew arrived on time yesterday (Monday) - 10:00 am on the dot. Within a few minutes they'd set up 'shop' in the house and were ready to roll.

I went first....

This empty chair is where I sat during my interview.

Aaron clowning around while sitting in granddaughter Sophia's 'princess' chair. (They filmed Rachael and I in the 'girls' living room and Jay and Will in the 'manly' living room).

This is my view fom the interview chair as camera man Tim Keating gets the focus 'just right' before we begin. (Ummm Tim? Can you shave a few pounds from my frame maybe?)

Aaron Keating, a little more serious this time as he makes sure Rachael trips the 'light fantastic' and Scott, seated, asking a few prep questions before the camera rolls. I'm standing behind them gazing into the monitor, amazed at how beautiful my daughter looks on camera.

And here she is again in the middle of her interview...I stayed just long enough to get a picture.

After Rachael's interview it was Will's turn. At first we nixed the idea of including him (the film is part of a documentary "Stalked" to be played as part of a series on the Discovery Channel) but he wanted to participate and at the end of the day we thought it might be therapeutic for him. He never talks about what happened. He hasn't even read the book and the most I've ever heard him say was to tell a friend that he 'just couldn't read it.' They agreed to shoot him with a 'shadow' for safety purposes. He was a little boy when this happened and I don't want anyone to know what he looks like now.

The crew was wonderful to us and Scott was an amazing interviewer. He just had a way of making us feel so comfortable. It was like bumping into an old friend you haven't seen in ages but you just seem to pick up where you left off.

It was draining, but yet it was good, too.

If you're a new reader of Hillbilly Debutante this is what all the fuss is about.

http://www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore.php?w=978-1-61663-352-3

You can also check out my website at

http://kathietruitt.tatepublishing.net/

I have lots of new pictures to post soon and next week I'll reveal the very first

"Hillbilly Debutante of the Month"

Until next time....

Happy Trails!

Kathie

Discovery Channel....

2010-08-29T16:28:00.000-07:00

Today is a big day. The production company for the Discovery Channel films our part of the documentary to be played back during National Stalking Awareness Month in January.

This morning (Sunday) they filmed my attorney, Ray Morley. Monday morning they'll film Russell Sudder the private investigator and then late morning the crew will show up at our house for our segment.

Okay, here's the clencher. They're making us change our names. We can't use the names we used in the book either. They're totally fictitious names. Bob and Mary. How drab. No offense if you're a 'Bob' or a 'Mary' - it's nothin' personal - I'm just not real whippy on having to use a pseudonym, that's all.

Oh, well.

Now on to other news - I did it! I've taken the plunge; I've sent out a query letter to a web designer about doing something fun and fresh with Hillbilly Debutante.

Hopefully I'll hear back from her this week and we can get started quickly.

Until next time '

♪♫Happy Trails to you-

♪♫'til we meet again....♪♫

Kathie

So....Here is the 'new' hillbilly debutante'...

2010-08-27T11:23:00.000-07:00

I'm not crazy about this to tell you the truth. You know when you have an image of the way you want something to be and you won't be happy til you get it? Well, that's where I'm at.

I want a vintage background with cowboy boots.....or maybe a vintage truck...or bicycle...a picture/drawing/or photograph that when you see it it just says to you...'hillbilly debutante'.

It can be a shabby chic scene, maybe a vintage chandelier lying beside a pair of cowboy boots.

I can picture exactly what I want but I can't seem to make it work - I didn't find a lot of options on blogspot but I really don't want to change.

I wished I'd listened to Mama back in the late 80's when she said to me, "You need to learn all you can about computers. Yes ma'am, that's what the future is gonna be - all about computers." So, I suppose she was right. Again.

Well, I think I'm just gonna hire someone to spruce this ol' gal up - it's time to break open the piggy bank. I think it's worth it.

♪♫Happy Trails to you...♪♫

Until we meet again...♪♫

Kathie

New "False Victim" website

2010-08-26T10:15:00.000-07:00

http://kathietruitt.tatepublishing.net/

This is my new website for my novel "False Victim". Feel free to pop in and have a look around. I'm still in the process of editing but you're able to leave comments if you want. By the end of the day I should - should being the operative word here - have my tour schedule posted on 'events' page, my publicists info for bookings, and ahem....get this - a book club section where you all can ask questions or just have a discussion about the plot with other readers. I thought that was pretty dog-gone cool. Hopefully others will, too.

Now that I have a web page that focuses solely on the book, us Hillbilly Debutantes over here can focus on other things....ya know...like country music, old trucks, vintage clothes and cool junk!

Speaking of junk - have you heard the news?? I believe that the ''Junk Gypsies'' are about to get their own show! My life is now perfect.

(If you don't know who the "Junk Gypsies" then click on "Junk Gypsy Blog" to see what you've been missin'.

2010-08-18T08:55:00.000-07:00

Please forgive me for being AWOL the past week. I'm currently on a book tour in Missouri and it's been a whirlwind. When I'm not at a book store I am answering e-mails, working out scheduling glitches and other minor mishaps that occur. It's all good.

I have several items of business I want you to know about.

Number 1. Please check out my new website.

kathietruitt.tatepublishing.net

It's not usable yet, but after next week it will be good to go. Familiarize yourself with it as later there will be a place for you all to click on that will allow each of you to discuss the book amongst yourselves. I'll drop in from time to time and answer any questions you might have for me, too. I'll have my schedule posted and I'll be able to keep you up to date on upcoming books.

Number 2. Starting in September "Hillbilly Debutante" will be making some major changes. I'll be changing the blog to make it prettier - she's been boring for way too long - so it's time to hire a professional to dazzle her up a bit.

Number 3. "Hillbilly Debutante of The Month". I don't have time to go into too much detail, but starting in September each month one woman who exemplifies the free-spirit, fun-loving, interesting attributes that make up a modern woman will be showcased as "Hillbilly Debutante of the Month." Maybe she is a country girl now living in the city who has figured out how to incorporate simplicity into a hectic urban life. Or maybe she is a country girl that LOVES the city and has no intention of going back. HDOM can be a business woman, stay at home mom, college student, grandmother - YOU will get to decide! Drop me a line - I'm interested to know what you think of this. (FYI - I already have September and October just to get the ball rolling).

Number 4: I am in the process of having "Hillbilly Debutante" t-shirts designed for giveaways and for sale. And my sweet friend Lindsay Bowman who is in the midst of kicking off her stationary business will be designing "Hillbilly Debutante" stationary.

As you can see I haven't been neglecting you on purpose. My little brain has been whirrin' away tryin' to come up with new ideas to freshen up. I've been really stale around here.

I'm interested to know your thoughts and hear some of your ideas. In the meantime, please browse some of my friends on my blog roll. There is something for everyone!

Love to you all and I'll try to post some pictures tonight.

Kathie

Last Saturday @ Borders in Woodbridge, VA

2010-08-10T12:15:00.000-07:00

The booksigning in Woodbridge Saturday was a huge success!

Thank you to everyone who came out and bought the book. Below is a picture of those who showed up who are characters in the book.

All in all we sold 60 books!

I'm preparing for the Discovery Channel filming this weekend and then Sunday we leave for my Missouri tour.

I'm starting a new segment on Hillbilly Debutante soon that I think you'll really like. I'll try to get it up before I leave next week.

Also, I'll be introducing my new website soon that is dedicated to all things writing which will free Hillbilly Debutante up to talk about other things.

Until next time,

Kathie

2010-08-07T06:24:00.000-07:00

Okay, Kath....take a deep breath. It's all in His hands now...

My book tour begins today. It's in Woodbridge, Virginia, at the Borders on Prince William Parkway.

I begged my publicist, Traci to start me off there. I needed to do my kick off there. In that town. There.

For those of you that don't know, Woodbridge is where the plot happened. It's where our lives would be forever changed.

I have no clue how today will go. None. Nada. But I know Who holds today.

I couldn't have done this without you all. You're two years of encouragement and some days just holding me up has meant everything to me.

Today may be a flop. Maybe not. But whatever happens I'll always be truthful with you...so are you ready? Let's begin.

2010-08-05T17:53:00.001-07:00

We went to Lonestar Steakhouse tonight and as I was walking to the table

I tripped and practically fell into the lap of this handsome fella.

Yeah, well maybe landing in his lap would have spared me the embarrassment and humiliation of laying out spread-eagle in the middle of the restaurant floor. Everyone stopped and stared. Of course once they got over the initial shock of seeing a middle-aged blonde woman in cowboy boots with her skirt up over head on the floor they all tried to help me up.

Oh well. No one ever died from bruised pride - or bruised hiny for that matter.

On a more pleasant note I'll be signing my book at Borders in Woodbridge, VA this Saturday (Aug 7th) at 1:00. I'd love to see you there if you're in the area.

And I'll be sitting down - you won't have to worry about me falling all over you!

Cheers -

Kathie

2010-08-05T09:14:00.000-07:00

Yikes! I've been lyin'.

On the back of my book underneath my authors photo it states that I 'maintain a daily blog called Hillbilly Debutante'. Well I do have a blog. You're at it and 'Hillbilly Debutante' is the name, but that 'daily' bit is false advertising. I'll try to do better.

Here are some new pics from my release day party at restaurant "Floriana" in DuPont Circle in the heart of Washington, D.C. This event was a smaller crowd and I had the chance to visit with each of my guests and savor the moment.

This is my friend Sharon. Guess how we met. Give up? When 'Victoria' magazine re-launched back in 2007 I joined the Victoria website chat room and found that a few of the ladies I was chatting with were local. Sharon was one of those women. We decided to meet and as they say, the rest is history.

This is Beth. She used to work for my husband and she's one of my favorite people of all time. She is always, and I mean always happy.

One of the highlights of the night was meeting Bethany from Maryland Pink and Green. She's beautiful, so, so sweet and very ladylike. You'll find her link on my blog list on the main page.

A girlfriend from high school - Teresa (Haines) Kripp also came down for the celebration. I haven't seen in her in over 30 years! I was afraid I wouldn't recognize her but I did right off the bat. She hasn't aged at all!

I'm hoping to to take a Hillbilly road trip soon to New Town, Pennsylvania to visit her. I've never been in that part of the country before and I'm needin' a road trip!

And this is just a random picture to remind me to keep my nose to the grindstone, pen to paper and keep my eye on the prize.

Now wouldn't I look cute driving that truck into Waterford, Virginia?

Only 3 more years to go.

2010-08-02T07:27:00.000-07:00

This is not the most flattering photo of me I know, but I've got a lot on my mind here in Hillbilly Debutante-ville.

Starting this week my life is fixin' to change. I know this. Is that good or bad? I guess that remains to be seen but let's just say I'm optimistic.

Tomorrow, (Tuesday August 3rd) my novel "False Victim" is released in book stores. You don't get to write a book and slap 'based on a true story' without proving that it is indeed, based on a true story. First, I had to have proof for my publisher. Then when I sold the movie rights I had to show proof to the producers. Most recently I had to prove this nightmare happened to Atlas Media in New York City who is preparing to film a documentary in the next few weeks to be shown during National Stalking Awareness Month in January.

I also just spent a full day with WUSA Channel 9 news reporter Brittany Morehouse who is doing a big piece on Tuesday nights 11pm news. I figure there'll probably be a whole lotta sweatin' goin' on in a certain Northern Virginia neighborhood, although they needn't worry. All names have been changed.

Back to the 'proof'. Lord knows I have plenty of it and I keep it all in a very, very safe place. I don't even keep it in my home for fear of a house fire. The family heirlooms aren't even as protected as much these items.

(re-visiting these documents is incredibly draining)

I get letters every day from readers wanting to know if I'm nervous or afraid that this book is coming out.

No.

I'm not afraid because of this book.

It's pure gold.

I won't give away the plot to the book for those who haven't read it, but...

when a person goes on the stand and swears on a Bible that they never, ever, ever contacted the school to make false child abuse allegations - no phone calls, no visits, and especially no letters - oh my no! not even one itty bitty letter,

but yet they did

well, I believe that's called perjury.

So no. I anticipate no problems in that area.

At this point I am trying to gear up for my first book signing, which is by no coincidence in Woodbridge, Virginia (where the story takes place). I understand that "Lynn" the books nemesis has left her husband, taken on her maiden name and moved up north so there's no concern about her gracing us with her presence, however, I am travelling with a body guard just to err on the side of caution.

I sit here with mixed emotions.

I'm filled with excitement for the release of the book and all that comes with it. Writing a novel is not for sissies - it's hard work and I am so happy to have accomplished this.

I'm nervous, too. Since my first novel is a psychological thriller is that what readers will expect from me from here on out? Or will "The Hillbilly Debutante Cafe" put me in touch with a whole new set of readers? Or both? I suppose time will tell. Besides I should stop thinking so much and take time to enjoy this.

One thing remains constant. YOU! From the moment I put pen to paper, to finding a publicist, publisher, selling the movie rights - YOU have been there encouraging me, lifting me up and leaving the sweetest comments.

It's only fitting that you come along on my tour and everything else all 'this' entails.

I promise to post pictures, to post often and not leave out any of the details - both good and not-so-good.

Through Hillbilly Debutante I have made so many new friends. Some of you have gone on to be Facebook friends as well. You've become such an integral part of my life.

I can't thank you enough, but I can take you with me. So, put on your seat belt sit back and let's go. My goal is to meet as many of you as possible on this journey.

If you're in my neck of the woods feel free to join us at Florianna Restaurant on 17th and Q in DuPont Circle in D.C. Tuesday, August 3rd starting at 6 pm.

Kathie

Washington D.C. Book Launch

2010-07-30T08:51:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures from my release party on July 21st.

The 'False Victim' poster on the easel was the first thing guests saw when entering the party.

Barry Scher, my very one P.R. guru...

signing away....

Russell Sudder, the investigator who worked night and day gathering evidence that would one day clear my name. (His character in the book is named Chuck Bishop).

My favorite guest, Sophia

My daughter Rachael, granddaughter Sophia and son-in-law Dino posing with me and my D.A.R. sisters.

There'll be another party on August 3rd the actual release date.

Now onto other news.

Today (July 30th) I am 48. I don't give two hoots concerning the rule that a lady never tells her age. Until we get over being ashamed of aging, society will continue to render women over 35 invisible and irrelevant. I love getting older and look forward to my 95th birthday party when I am glamorously turned out, dancing the night away and my great-grandchildren are begging me to sit one out so they can catch their breath.

Speaking of being 'glamorously turned out' take a peak at what Sophia bought Grandma for her birthday! If this isn't me I don't know what is.

This was purchased at Lou-Lou's on Connecticut Avenue in D.C. They just recently opened another boutique on "F" Street which I frequent quite often. (Their main store is in downtown Middleburg, Virginia).

I hope you all have a very good weekend! I'm off to celebrate in style. Hmm - I think I'll stop by Pizza Hut and order a black olive thin-n-cripsy pizza. I'm the only one I know that likes black olives but it's my birthday so I get to do what I want, right? Right.

Come back next week because I'll have a LOT of exciting news for ya! Whoa there, Nelly - try not to get too excited!

OH! I almost forgot. You can now order "False Victim" on BarnesandNoble.com and Amazon.com!

Until next time,

Kathie

Sorry, I just haven't felt like talking lately...

2010-07-29T08:59:00.001-07:00

By the look of my blog list (your lack of new posts!)I think maybe some of you have been feeling the same way or else you're summer is just so dog-goned exciting that you're out somewhere partyin' and dancin' on tables, in which case I am extremely jealous.

If you're going to take a break for a while, or if like me, you just haven't found the time to blog, then why don't check our some new friends of mine?

Stop over and see Meg at Texas Grits and Glamor, and Sheena at Motherh00d - for the feint-hearted.

Meg, who by the way is the embodiment of grit(s) and all things glamor, dishes on everything from television shows to clothes, handbags, shoes, what she's pondering, her family - anything you can think of, Meg's got a handle on it. While I very seldom leave a comment (sorry!), Meg's musings on TGG are fun, entertaining and always leaves me wanting more!

Sheena Simpson is the author of a brand new blog I just can't wait to read every day. HILARIOUS!! Motherhood- for the feint-hearted (nope, 'feint' is not misspelled in this case). Sheena and her adventurous zoo - I mean brood, which includes several kids, every pet under the sun - (gulp!) including goats and snakes - will leave you amused, entertained, and rolling in the floor laughing! I can't even begin to do her justice so I won't try. Please go over and visit and leave her a comment. She's new so let's make her all feel welcome, and if you love her as much as I do please add her to your blog roll!

Old Centennial Farmhouse -

I'm not being entirely fair. This isn't a new blog, but Joni's posts never fail to take me away....just like Calgon (okay - if you're under 40 you won't 'get' that - but then if you're under 40, you're probably too cool to read my blog ;), so never mind.)

All worries, troubles, heartaches melt completely away. Even if she doesn't post anything new for a few days I'll click on her pictures and stare longingly at her house. Her photos are so professional, and the ballad that plays in the background, "Home" makes you feel like you really and truly are home.

I hope you'll go over and leave a comment on these ladies blogs!

And if you're a new reader of Hillbilly Debutante I'd like to first off give you a great big ol' cowgirl welcome and invite you to start at the top of my blog roll and visit every one of my blog friends. There's a little sumpin-sumpin for everyone.

Until next time,

Kathie