Kim McMahill

It snowed again last night, not much, but on top of the foot still lingering in the backyard it seems like a lot. I know why the sight of snow makes me grumble. I’ve gone soft over the years and I’m not necessarily proud of it. I grew up in northern Wyoming, downhill skiing every Saturday and Sunday from the day the runs opened until they closed, so snow was a good thing and cold temperatures were part of life. What’s a little frostbite on the toes as long as you’re having fun? Being out on horseback in frigid temperatures and icy slopes wasn’t my favorite pastime, but I guess back then that was normal. I spent several years in the high plains of Wyoming where summers were short and it snowed horizontally. The wind kept the roads around town fairly clear, so the snow never really piled up. The highways leading north toward home were always bad in the winter, so I never expected anything different and never felt let down. Then there was Jackson Hole. If you love white Christmases, Thank...

It’s good to be home after having traveled over 3,000 miles in December to attend a memorial service in one state and Christmas with family in another. I’m still in disbelief that we managed such a road trip over six driving days in December through Nebraska, Colorado, Wyoming and South Dakota with only about an hour of slick roads. The two occasions brought a roller coaster of emotions, but provided an opportunity to see friends we haven’t seen in years and be with family who we miss dearly. Now, it’s a time to reflect back on the past year and look ahead to the new. I can only hope that 2011 brings peace and closure to those who have lost loved ones or suffered other tragedies, and faith that the coming days will be brighter. Best wishes to all for a happy, successful and compassionate New Year.

I can’t believe it’s only twelve days until Christmas and I haven’t sent my cards out, put up a single decoration or finished shopping. I usually mail cards the first week of December and I’ve occasionally found all my gifts by the end of the summer. But, the snow and cold last weekend reminded me to get into the holiday spirit and tackle everything on my list. So, first on my list is to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and to thank you all for another year of encouragement and support.

Every day has the potential for adventure. I’m not talking necessarily about a jungle trek, deep-sea diving or even climbing mountains, but merely those small discoveries that take us by surprise and keep our imaginations fueled. I try to see or do something new as often as I can and this has sustained me for quite a while and may be more than adequate for many people. But, no matter how rewarding small adventures can be, I’m in the mood for something big. I’m not sure exactly what or where or when, but as the temperatures fall I’m consumed with the need to mix things up a bit and find an adventure to inspire new stories. When I think of riding elephants in Thailand, standing in awe in front of the Pyramids of Giza, climbing to the top of a Mayan temple, snorkeling over colorful reefs, watching an active volcano light up the night or listening to the eerie shrieks of howler monkeys I feel restless. But, the most rewarding adventures are those that just happen, so for now I’ll enjoy th...

All my books, except possibly The Lodge, are available on-line at Amazon.com and other on-line retailers, at each publisher’s individual website and can be ordered from any bookstore. Amazon lists The Lodge, but since the publisher has been out of business for over five years I have my doubts as to its availability. For those who prefer to browse the bookstore and see the actual book before buying, you can find copies at the following locations. I’ll post updates as outlets change, so check back often. Thank you for your continued support. THE WATCH (Suspense/thriller. 2009, ISBN: 978-1-59663-650-0) Publisher’s website: www.rockpublishing.com Bookstores can order through wholesalers such as Ingram The Bookworm at 8702 Pacific Street, Omaha, Nebraska The Wild Burro Bookstore, Hot Springs, South Dakota (www.thewildburro.com) DEADLY RUINS (Suspense/thriller. 2009, ISBN: 1-60836-544-1) Publisher’s website: www.publishamerica.net The Bookworm at 8702 Pacific Street, Omaha, Nebraska Probst ...

Fall is here. It's one of my favorite times of the year. The temperatures are mild, the trees are alive with color, college athletics are in full swing and the holidays are just around the corner. I can't help but feel a little anxious to spend as much time outside as I can before the weather turns. But, the window of opportunity to enjoy the pleasant autumn season is always too short and soon I'll be curled up once again with a few good books - one I'm reading and always one I'm writing.

I decided to take a break from my usual writer's conferences this year. I've been a bit overwhelmed as of late with all those trying to make money off writers - magazines, editing services, computer programs, contests, marketing, how-to books, conferences - and the list goes on and on. I've read one horror story after another from writers about being hood-winked and I've experienced my share of frustrations while relying too heavily on the honesty of my fellow man. I felt it was time to step back and assess which goods and services are truly helpful and which are products of unscrupulous operators praying on writers' dreams. Unfortunately, the conclusions I arrived at weren't all too flattering. I do believe there are still individuals and companies out there who are passionate about the craft and committed to long-term growth, but it's becoming more difficult all the time to sort through the predators and scammers. So, even though it isn't January first...