DECEMBER NEWSLETTER (reposted)

Season's Greetings!!!

I'm writing my newsletter a bit early this month as it is such a busy time for everyone concerned -- including me! Preparing for the Holidays is always a hectic time regardless of what you do, or where you are. Shopping, wrapping, addressing cards, baking, decorating, visiting, trying to cram everything into a very small amount of time with at least some form of success.

I have always loved the Yuletide. Christmas is most special in many ways and for special reasons. I'm sure each and every one of us has a special love, memory, or reason for the season and celebrating it however each of us do. For me it is also special because it is my mother's birthday. To be born on December 25th has a special certain quality, I'm sure -- not only for who the birthday is shared with, but the festivities surrounding it and all that goes on during the 24 hours while it is present. I once asked my mom what it feels like to have your birthday on Christmas Day and she said she never really thought about it for she never knew any different. Somehow I would think she would be rather lost in the shuffle, but she said she would never change it even if she could, for she felt she was in very special company when it came to sharing her birthday date with whom she shares it. I have to admit I agree :) But still I make sure that her birthday present has nothing to do with Christmas when it comes to wrappings and presentation. I always wrap her gift in flowery paper, usually beautiful scenes which have nothing to do with the Christmas season, and I place it away from the tree in a special place all its own to be opened and celebrated by itself. Such as she should be. So far the plan has worked and I really can't see it changing anytime soon as Mom is celebrating her" 90th. Birthday" this December 25th!!!

>>> This has been a less hectic month in the world of writing, at least for me. Bookstores in my area do not hold Book-Signings throughout the month of December. I don't know if that's a good idea as books are a wonderful gift for someone who loves to read, especially if they like to cuddle up in a huge, comfy chair by the fireplace, hot chocolate within reach as they ready their mind to travel within the pages before them -- or on their electronic tablets. But January will see signings beginning once more. At the moment I have no definite January listings but when I do I shall post them on my sites.

>>>  I will be signing copies of Passions at Pen Centre COLES on February 11th. just in time for Valentines :) I shall be formally posting this in January.

>>> The monthly drawing for a free, signed copy of "Passion in Paris: Connections to the Past"  continues with this month's winner being Jeff Webber of Chatham, Ont. Congratulations Jeff!! The contest will continue for awhile as yet, so be sure to take advantage of the chance to win by using the Feedback Form at  http://www.rusty-blackwood.com.

As usual your e-mail address is kept confidential and not shared under any circumstance. Enter as often as you wish for the more you do the higher your chances of winning.

>>> My newest children's book: "Through the Eyes of Innocence"  is expected for release early in January and is to be followed by the short-story adult comedy: "The Misadventures of Derwood Tugbottom". Watch for further updates on both of these entertaining titles.

>>> This has been an exiting year for me in many ways. Writing, especially self-publishing has its ups and downs, frustrations and hair-pulling experinences, but it is all part of the process of growing as a writer. I'm thankful to have the chance to do this. I've had the opportunity this past year to enjoy and experience many aspects of this field. I've met and chatted with many exciting, interesting people, travelled around to different venues, but the most exciting opportunity was the chance to participate in the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books, which was held on the Campus of Southern California in Los Angeles. What a wonderful, thrilling opportunity as well experience. My daughter-in-law, as well good friend Corinne Doan conducted herself in a most proficent manner as my assistant during the signing on April 30th.and helped make my signing go smoothly and professionally. I am forever beholding to her for her support and assistance. We were in Los Angeles from April 29th. to May 5th, and had a great time. I think that trip was the highlight of the year.

>>> As an interesting read I'd like for everyone to write a comment for this newsletter with regard to what you feel was your highlight of 2011. It's always nice to share ones experiences with others, and I'm sure it would bring some smiles -- especially during the dreary, cold days of January. Doesn't have to be a novel, only a few lines, but scratch a few if you would.

>>> As this year soon draws to a close, I wish to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you who very kindly support me in so many generous ways. Comments, word of mouth, reviews and purchase of my work. Please know it is greatly appreciated and I personally thank each and every one of you. I wish you all a wonderful, peaceful Yuletide Season, and a prosperous and healthy New Year.