In addition to writing, I have a passion for photography. To me, the two arts are related. They help me to show how I view the world. In writing, it's through my characters. In photography, it's through the lens. I'm a lot better at writing than I am at photography, but fortunately I don't have to pay the bills with my pictures.

This weekend my husband and I took a trip to Ennis, Texas to take pictures of the bluebonnets. I learned it's incredibly hard to capture the true beauty and color of Texas' State Flower. The bluebonnet is to Texas what the four-leaf clover is to Ireland and we're incredibly proud and protective of it.

What better start to the new week than a couple of my favorite photos from the weekend? Do you have a hobby that helps you to relax or spurs creativity in other areas?

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Today, millions of Irish (and non-Irish) people celebrate St. Patrick's day. St. Patrick was kidnapped from from Britain and brought to Ireland as a 16 year old slave. He later escaped, but returned to bring Christianity to the Irish people. While St. Patrick's day was originally a religious celebration, here in the US it is a day for parades, parties, and drinking green beer.

Though I can claim an Irish heritage, thanks to my grandfather, I'm not a fan of beer, corned beef, or cabbage. I'm also not a fan of crowds, so I'll be celebrating St. Paddy's day with a bit of shopping and game night with the family. And we'll do it Texas-style, with bbq beef and an as yet undecided dessert. I'm sure, though, that before the night is through I'll be wearing green and singing an Irish tune or two.

How about you? How do you celebrate St. Patrick's Day?

New Cover for Lone Star Justice

Lone Star Justice has a new look, one that I hope better conveys the suspense elements of the story. Thank you to Ade Ratna for the great cover!