What If... Santa Could Bring You Anything?

In many parts of the world, today is considered Christmas Eve – the time when countless children eagerly await the arrival of Santa Claus, that jolly, superhuman giver of gifts. Prior to Christmas morning, most of these very same children have written (and, in some cases, sent to the North Pole) lengthy wish lists, filled with all the toys, games, and other pleasures that they're hoping Santa will leave for them.

Of course, no matter what you might believe or which holidays you celebrate in your own world, it's undoubtedly tempting to think that a mythical creature might grant your fondest wish.

So, authors and characters, I ask you:

What if Santa – or his gift-giving equivalent – could bring you anything you desire? What would it be?

And, for those who celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Festivus, and/or New Year's Day, I hope you have a wonderful holiday season! See you in 2012!

Getting to Know You: Sanctuary

No matter where we live, what we do, and who we love, we all experience sadness, frustration, and stress from time to time.

When such trying times occur in your life, how do you escape for a while? Do you have a private sanctuary? A hidden beach, an underground cave, a room all your own, or something else altogether? And if not, where would you escape if you could?

As always, this question is for authors and characters alike!

Your World: Monsters

In southern Louisiana – where some of my characters have lived – there are plenty of dangerous creatures in the wild, including stealthy, easily camouflaged ones like the alligator pictured here. Of course, every place has its share of so-called “monsters” – from untamed animals to mythological beasts – which makes me wonder...

What sort of monsters inhabit your world, and what do you do to protect yourself from them?

As always, this question is for authors and characters alike!

Getting to Know You: Birthdays

Yesterday was my birthday, and as is often the case, it was pretty quiet and uneventful. Just lunch with my dad, dinner at home with the hubby, a little live music at my favorite bar, and a couple of late-night movies. Of course, there are plenty of ways to celebrate a birthday – from crazy nights on the town to intimate gatherings with friends.

So, authors and characters, I was just wondering...

How do you normally celebrate your birthday? Quietly, with a big bang, or not at all?