Tour de Troops

Welcome, and thanks for stopping by. On the final day of the tour, your virtual feet must be tired from all the hopping!

I'm thrilled to be taking part in the Tour de Troops. Married to a now-retired Air Force man and as the daughter of a long-term Army serviceman, I've grown up with that ingrained honor and respect for those who serve and protect our country and its ideals. In fact, when I think about it, my family crosses over all military lines: from Air Force to Army to the Marines, the Merchant Marines and the Navy. 

If you're following the holiday weekend tour, the stop before mine is Nicole Galland and the next stop is Urban Fantasy writers Rachelle Reese and John E. Miller. But first, hang with me and get your free ebook "The Vampire, The Witch & The Werewolf: A New Orleans Threesome." 

As an involved bystander, I want to thank all that have sacrificed to serve our country. When I think of my own personal experiences, there are a few things I’d like to share.

Preserving Memories

A few years ago, my Papa – grandfather – passed away. He served in the Marines during the Korean War. Many people discuss the importance of writing names on the backs of photos to identify those pictured. Think about the act as preserving history. Not only are the people important, but also the locations that they were taken.

Likewise, when dealing with older black and white images, or even color photographs, consider scanning in the pictures – and backing them up – so there’s a crisp digital image to preserve.

Along the same lines, save those letters. It’s amazing for me to read the thoughts of my great-grandfather, and grandfather, as they spent countless months away from home. Many people correspond via email. These missives also can be stored electronically or printed in the book. Don’t think about preserving the memories simply for oneself, but also for future generations.

Connections

As a writing teacher, I’ve worked with many active duty and veterans in college. While it may be difficult, writing about one’s experiences also can be quite helpful. As a supportive friend, family member or even a teacher, it’s important to let the individual express himself or herself without critiquing the work. Once more time and distance comes between the work and the individual, and they request feedback, then that’s the time to offer suggestions. 

While I'm not an "indie" author, I am sponsoring a free ebook for each person who leaves a comment, and one for a troop. Plus you'll be entered into a drawing for a Kindle, sponsored by the writers taking place in the tour and the Indie Book Collective. (Make sure to leave your email address so we can contact you!) So in order to receive an ebook, tell me: What's your favorite American food?

Next stop: Rachelle Reese and John E. Miller

Thank you for stopping by, and once again thank you to all of our troops. Remember your next stop will be: Rachelle Reese and John E. Miller.

For a review of my latest book "The Vampire, The Witch & The Werewolf: A New Orleans Threesome," check out Joyfully Reviewed. If you enjoy “The Vampire, The Witch & The Werewolf: A New Orleans Threesome,” stay tuned for “Chains of Silver,” coming Fall 2011.