#SundaySnippet – Christmas/Holiday Traditions Around the World
Fun things about Christmas/Holiday traditions Around the World. Take for instance, the Land Down Under, because, well, someday I want to visit there, just probably not at Christmas. The English and Irish predominately settled Australia so it stands to reason their traditions reflect those countries. Here’s a few of of their Christmas Traditions.
Aussie’s decorate their homes with ferns, palm leaves and evergreens along with 
blooming flowers of Christmas Bush and Christmas Bell Flower. It’s summer time in December down under, when most of the United States is looking forward to big flakes and blankets of snow for a white Christmas.
Carols by Candlelight is one of the popular events in Australia. People come together under the stars at night to light candles and sing Christmas carols. Seems to me, it’s not far from our own tradition of Christmas carolers. I just can’t imagine Christmas/holiday without snow, that’s why I live in Colorado. Hehe!
Christmas Day is when families and close friends gather from all over Australia for a holiday midday dinner. Some enjoy a traditional British Christmas dinner of roast turkey or ham and rich plum pudding doused in brandy and set on fire before it is brought to the table. Other families head for the backyard barbie to grill their Christmas dinner, maybe shrimp, in the sunshine or go to the beach and enjoy a picnic of cold turkey or ham and a salad. To the delight of children, Father Christmas in shorts may appear to greet children at the beach on Christmas/holiday! If you can’t have snow, that’s the way to celebrate Christmas.
Because I am of Swedish descent, let’s take a peek at Christmas Traditions in Sweden where in December the days are quite short, the nights long and the ground is usually snow covered. The Christmas/holiday season begins at church on the first Sunday of Advent, which is the fourth Sunday before Christmas. Children use an Advent calendar to keep track of the first day of December until Christmas, just like some of ours do. Each morning, they open a flap in the calendar’s Christmas scene to see the charming picture behind it. This year, I have a Victorian Advent calendar on my computer and enjoy a surprise behind each door daily.
The festivities in Sweden really begin with St. Lucia’s Day, December 13th, a 
celebration of the patron saint of light. A Christmas market held in the old medieval section of Stockholm is where you can find handmade toys, ornaments, and candy. Sounds fun, doesn’t it? Some people write a special verse to accompany the gift and even seal the package with colorful sealing wax. I have enough trouble with scotch tape and wrapping paper, I can’t imagine what would happen with hot sealing wax. Not a pretty sight, I’m sure. A Christmas tree is selected by the whole family just a day or two before Christmas and decorated, while the delightful aroma of gingerbread cookies in the shape of hearts, stars, or other festive shapes waft through to house. Christmas 
Eve is when the main feast is eaten. Presents might be brought by Santa 
(Jultomten) or by gnomes/elves named Tomte or Nissar. Many families set out a sheaf of grain on a pole for hungry birds. My hubby and I always put out special treats for the wild birds in our Aspen grove on Christmas.
As for my family, we put up the tree, Christmas decorations inside and out, the weekend after Thanksgiving. Or try to. No it’s not a real tree, only because I’m allergic. <sigh> We watch Christmas movies throughout December and make candy such as Divinity, Fantasy Fudge and Beaver Dams. What are 
Beaver Dams, you ask. Well, take a package of butterscotch chips, melt them in a double boiler, stir in half-package of crispy Chow Mein Noodles and one half can of cocktail peanuts. Spoon the concoction onto foil in small mounds and let set. They look like beaver dams hence the name. YUMMY.
This year I’m going, to once again, try my hand at gingerbread cookies. Its become a Christmas Tradition of sorts, an make my family cringe. Why you ask? I haven’t had a lot of luck in previous years getting a good tasting cookie. But last year, thanks to a great recipe, not only did they turn out, but it’s become a beloved tradition now. Goes great with hot chocolate and marshmallows. LOL
Speaking of things that go good with hot chocolate. A heartwarming holiday tale, fits the bill! I’ve got just the one for you Meringue Snowflake Magic AND it’s on sale #99cents.
A Snippet of MERINGUE SNOWFLAKE MAGIC for your holiday enjoyment –
“What the hell?” burst from her mouth before she could stop it. She slapped a hand over her mouth and glanced around.
He took her hand. “Follow me. It’s not safe out in the open for you.”
“What the hell are you talking about? Where are we?” She stared at the surrounding area.
“I’ll explain all in good time. Right now, it’s imperative you follow me.” He started to tug her deeper into the woods.
Refusing to continue, she dug her heels in the damp ground covered with decaying leaves. “I’m not going any farther until you tell me what’s going on.”
He shrugged. “Suit yourself.” Whirling around, he slung her over his shoulder like a bag of potatoes, then sprinted into the woods.
She squealed. “Put me down this instant.”
Paying no mind to her, he set her feet on the path at the foot of a large oak tree. He pushed aside vines and plants to reveal a door in the ground. When he pressed his hand into the rough bark on the side of the tree, a keypad appeared. He punched in a number. The door sprang open to reveal steep winding steel stairs. Crouching over, he swept his arm toward the entrance. “You first.”
She stood hands on hips. “You expect me to—”
“Or I can haul your ass over my shoulder again. Unfortunately, the stairs are a bit tricky to navigate in that manner, but….” He jerked his head toward the stairs. “All will be explained once we are safe inside.”
“I’m not— ”
He took a step forward. “Your cover’s been blown. Handler is missing. Now move!”
What Christmas or holiday traditions do and your family observe during the month of December? I look forward to hearing from you. I’d love for you to tell me about your traditions in the comments!
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Posted in Authors' Secrets Blog and tagged around the world, Christmas Traditions, Meringue Snowflake Magic, Paranormal Romance/Mystery, Tena Stetelr, Witches by Tena Stetler with comments disabled.
The Bull Rider’s Heart by Betty Derr May
Happy holidays to all! Give a big welcome to Betty Derr May, author of Bull Rider’s Heart her debut novel.
Have a seat and grab an insulated mug. I’ve got hot chocolate, hot cider and coffee. Choose your pot, they’re labeled. Pick your choice of a Snicker-doodle, Chocolate Chip or Peanut butter cookie from the plate. Yep, I baked them myself. Lets see what Betty’s Bull Riders Heart is all about. Thanks for joining us!
Betty, I have a few questions for you.
What inspired The Bull Rider’s Heart?
I grew up riding horses and going to rodeos all my life. I still have a love of both, and would own a ranch and raise Quarter horses if I had a chance. This story is a combination of all my childhood experiences. This is a part of a series I write of a fictional town in Oklahoma called Marigold.
If I had it to do all over again, what would I do differently?
I believe I would start writing earlier in life. I waited as the stories kept building in my head. Today my job is to try to get them all written.
What does Success mean to me?
Well, believe it or not, success does not me how much money I can make selling my books, although that’s a nice dividend, however, I truly believe for me success is knowing I have put out books that people enjoy reading.
What do you like to do when you are not writing?
To tell you the truth, I consider writing my full-time job. I spend usually 8 hours a day writing. By the time my characters stop talking to me it’s time for dinner and I then get some time with my family and my dog. I do like to do puzzles and of course I read as much as I can.
Why do you write what you write?
I write contemporary romance with a twist. Sometimes the twist is suspense, action, even a touch of paranormal thrown into the mix. I do love to read historical romances and even follow a vampire family. So, you could say I am a mixture of all that I write.
Any tips to share with fellow authors?
I believe if you want to succeed you have to sit in your chair and write. Let your characters flow and soon your story will take on it’s own personality.
Speed Round (one word only answer): Yep, I know torture for a writer!<evil laugh>
Favorite movie: Dances with Wolves
Favorite book: Identity
Last book I read : Bad Luck Vampire
Favorite Color: red
Stilettos or flip flops: flip flops
Coffee or tea: both
Ebook, audiobook, or paperback: I like them all
Pencil or pen: pen
Favorite Song: Flowers
Streak or not: NOT
Favorite dessert: German Chocolate Cake
Favorite junk food: chocolate covered cherries
Favorite thing to do to relax: watch a movie
Champagne or gin: Champagne
Paranormal or Historical: Both
Wonder woman or top model: Wonder woman
Favorite TV show: Yellowstone
Hot or cold: Hot
I’d die if I don’t have: Diet Pepsi
Review or not: review
Tell us a little about Bull Rider’s Heart
The Bull Rider’s Heart is a heartwarming story about finding purpose and hope in unexpected places and learning to let go of the past in order to embrace the future. Whether you are a fan of rodeo or simple looking for a compelling, emotional read, this book is sure to capture your heart and leave you inspired. Cash Maguire had always lived for the thrill of the ride. He was a bull rider, through and through. But when a devastating injury halts his career, Cash finds himself lost and directionless. That is until a surprise appears on his doorstep – a daughter he never knew he had. As Cash navigate the ups and downs of fatherhood, he’s forced to to reevaluate his entire life and start down a new path in the form of his lovely neighbor. Along the way he’ll discover that the greatest ride of his life might not be on the back of a bull, but in the love and sacrifices of being a parent and husband.
A sneak peek between the pages of The Bull Rider’s Heart:
Leaning against the fence, Cash took a moment to gather himself. Drawing in a deep breath, he felt a single bead of sweat trickle down his spine. The weight of his family’s ranch rested squarely on his shoulders, and he understood the enormity of the situation. Realizing he couldn’t continue riding bulls indefinitely, Cash acknowledged the limitations of his own body.
Cash listened intently as the announcer captivated the crowd, building their anticipation for the upcoming bull riding event. With determination, he stood tall and inspected his equipment. Everything needed to be in perfect condition, as it would be his lifeline during the ride.
Entering the staging area, Cash was hit by a potent mix of unpleasant aromas – cow dung, sweat, and the unmistakable scent of fear. The atmosphere was heavy with tension. Drawing the notorious bull Cat Ballou, known for its vicious nature, Cash understood this ride could either result in a high score or a devastating failure would impact his finances.
As he sipped water, he became aware that the lump lodged in his throat refused to go down. Suddenly, his mouth felt parched, and his heartbeat intensified. A shudder coursed through Cash’s spine, accompanied by a single bead of sweat.
Not one to be intimidated, Cash decided to channel energy and took a daring leap onto the chute railing. His determined fingers curled around the rope tightly as he slid his hand up and down, testing his grip for maximum security.
Adjusting his hat, he felt rather than knew this would be challenging. ride. The bull harbored a strong dislike towards him, which Cash was aware of considering his past encounters. He knew firsthand how merciless the bull could be towards the unfortunate riders.
He expertly wound the rope through his left hand to secure his hold, ensuring it wouldn’t slip away. Feeling the surge of adrenaline, he drummed his fingers against the railing, generating some warmth before the moment of truth. The electric atmosphere created by the amused spectators and the comical performance of the clowns. Cash took a deep breath to center himself, then nodded to the official to release the bull.
A tornado in a frenzy of furious hooves and flailing horns. Cash’s grip tightened on the rope as he braced himself against the violent bucking and twisting of the beast. Cash’s determination grew more vigorous with every jolt and bone-rattling landing. He refused to let fear take hold of him, instead channeling all his focus and strength into maintaining control. As the crowd roared with adrenaline-fueled excitement, Cash dug his spurs into the sides of the massive bull, urging it on with relentless persistence. The seconds stretched like an eternity, but Cash remained resolute, refusing to succumb to the chaos beneath him.
Cash desperately clung on for dear life. The bull executed a sudden sideways jump, sending Cash into a thrilling whirlwind through the air. As the bull descended with a force comparable to a jackhammer, Cash’s body flailed uncontrollably, resembling a limp rag doll. His head narrowly missed colliding with the hindquarters of the colossal creature. In a brave display of determination, Cash held onto the line, defying gravity as the massive bull impersonated a headstand.
Cash used all his skill and training to stay on the bull’s back for the full eight seconds. Cash precisely relinquished his grip on the rope when the buzzer sounded, landing on the arena floor in a cloud of dust.
About the Author:
Betty Derr May is a Romance writer, whose books offer not only romance but a romance with a twist. She lives in beautiful Colorado amidst tall majestic trees and mountains. Originally from Oklahoma, her series about the people of a mythical town of Marigold will make you laugh, cry, and sometimes feel the hurt and joy of the characters as she brings them all to life. But they will always entertain you. Betty is the mother of three sons, and three rapidly growing granddaughters. She is also the proud owner of an English Bulldog who can most days be found asleep at her feet while she writes. When she’s not writing she enjoys spending time with her family, Sorority Sisters, movies, and working puzzles.
Buy Link: Amazon
It’s been great having you with us today. Good luck with The Bull-Rider’s Heart! Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night. Until next week’s Sunday Snippet. A surprise is waiting!
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Posted in Authors' Secrets Blog and tagged Betty Derr May, Contemporary Romance, Ranch, Rodeo, The Bull Rider's Hear, Western by Tena Stetler with 2 comments.
Meringue Snowflake Magic #99cents Sale – Sunday Snippet
This week’s Sunday Snippet is on sale for #99cents Meringue Snowflake Magic. Celebrating the holidays with a feel-good read from the Christmas Cookie Series. #mystery #fantasy #romance. Join the #holiday #fantasy#adventure, download a copy or two today! Pssst… makes a great holiday gift. The people of Raven’s Hollow and Blaze have secrets of their own, will Wynter discover them before it’s too late?
A little about Meringue Snowflake Magic:
After being in the wrong place at the wrong time, Wynter Dahl finds herself with a new name and new home. Whisked into the Witness Protection program she finds herself in the Podunk town of Raven’s Hollow, Colorado. She has more than one secret to keep and is not sure who she can trust, though the deputy sheriff is hard to resist.
Braydon “Blaze” Nightwing, owns Dragon Fire Pizza and takes his job as deputy sheriff seriously. He means to protect his town and its residents, including the mysterious newcomer. He rescues her after a tumble and finds himself in over his head. He senses she’s more than she seems but so is he.
When her cover is blown and her life is in danger it will take the whole town to save her and their annual holiday festival and cookie contest. What is Christmas without a little magic?
A new peek between the pages of Meringue Snowflake Magic:
The wind had changed direction, and the pretty ice crystals were like tiny needles buffeting her face. She looked up and down Main Street and saw only one stoplight. Finally, she turned around and walked backward for a few yards. Glancing over her shoulder, she could see her street. She started to turn around, her foot slipped on the curb and arms flailing, down she went with a thud. Clutching her precious box of goodies in front of her, they were safe. However, the mug of hot chocolate popped the lid and sent hot chocolate in all directions, including all over her brand new bright-colored parka and the sidewalk. When she tried to get up, each foot went in a different direction, then down she went again. Getting to her knees, she crawled to the sidewalk, carefully got to her feet, and tried to brush the wet snow off. The damp material stuck to her. She began to shiver as the wind whipped around her.
“Hey lady, you all right?” A man stopped his SUV in the middle of the road and jumped out. “That was quite a spill you took.” He smiled wide, picking up her mug and lid. “But I see your goodies from Candi’s place are still intact. Let me give you a ride. You’re going to freeze as wet as your clothes are.” He held out his hand. “Braydon Nightwing, but everyone calls me Blaze. I own the pizza place a few blocks down the way.”
When she reached for his hand, her arm shook. Her teeth chattered as she tried to say her name. “Wynterrr.”
“It’s warm in my SUV. Please tell me where you’re going. I’ll get you there.” He pried her fingers from the box, helped her over to the vehicle, and opened the passenger door. Warm air rushed out of the SUV, caressing her face.
Please don’t let him be a serial killer. Slowly, she reached behind her and patted her waistband. Shit. Why didn’t I bring my weapon? Getting in a car with a stranger wasn’t smart. But the warmth emanating from the vehicle was inviting. Death by serial killer or freeze. She crawled into the SUV and huddled in front of the heater vents.
He slid into the driver’s seat and turned to her. “Where do you live?”
In between bouts of chattering, she recited her address and pointed down the street.
“You moved into the old Sawyer place?” He turned the corner and rolled to a stop in front of her house. “Nice little cottage.”
“I guess.” So far, so good. Still alive.
About the Author:
Tena Stetler is an internationally best-selling author of award winning paranormal tales. Some call her crazy others creative. She deals with the voices in her head by writing them down and creating a fantasy world and characters you won’t soon forget. Her books tell tales of magical kick-ass women and mystical alpha males that dare to love them. Travel, adventure, magic, and a bit of mystery flourish in her books along with a few companion animals to round out the tales.
Colorado is home; shared with her husband of many moons, a brilliant Chow Chow, a spoiled parrot and a fifty-year-old box turtle. When she’s not writing, her time is spent kayaking, camping, hiking, biking or just relaxing in the great Colorado outdoors.
Social Media Links:
Website: https://www.tenastetler.com
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Pssst… While you’re here, don’t forget to check out my paranormal romance/mysteries click here. Please check back next week for another Sunday Snippet!
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Posted in Authors' Secrets Blog and tagged Colorado, fantasy, Meringue Snowflake Magic, Mystery, Paranormal Romance/Mystery, Shapeshifters, Sunday Snippet, Tena Stetler, Witches by Tena Stetler with comments disabled.
Mystic Maples – Sunday Snippet
Sunday Snippet presents Mystic Maples an award-winning #mystery #fantasy and #timetravel #romantic #adventure.
When Mercy discovers the truth, Silvanus’ well-ordered life unravels and they’re catapulted into the past to right a wrong. Take a romantic escape to the small town of Willow Springs, Vermont with the Deerbourne Inn Series. I loved doing research for this book. Maple syrup is one of my favorite things. When I started this book, I had no idea the different types of maple syrup and the difference between natural and other types. As well as the nutritional values of each. Do you know what a sugar house is? I do now.
Pull up a chair, grab a drink of your choice from the cooler, a Chocolate Chip or Peanut Butter cookie from the plate, and learn about Mystic Maples. Go ahead you, know you want to, grab a copy and join the #magical #fantasy, #adventure today! You’ll be so glad you did.
Earth/Fire witch Mercy Rose’s insatiable curiosity always gets her in trouble. After a break-in at her Colorado flower shop, and a court battle that comes to a screeching halt in her favor, she arrives at Deerbourne Inn for a much-needed getaway. Looking for peace and quiet, she finds just the opposite in a startling handsome but mysterious man and his dog.
Silvanus Forrest’s gypsy/fae heritage is a double-edged sword. The land he inherited from his parents is rumored to be enchanted. But when Mercy discovers the truth, his well-ordered life unravels, and they’re catapulted into the past to right a wrong. Along the way their lives intertwine, and they discover the true meaning of family and love. Will they change the past in time to save their future?
Sneak peek between the pages of Mystic Maples: The Deerbourne Inn Series
It was a beautiful summer evening lit by a full moon. What harm could come from simply popping over to Mystic Maples, digging my toes into the earth and see if there is any truth to the rumors? She shrugged. Sis wouldn’t have told me about it, if she hadn’t thought it worth investigating. Right?
She toed off her shoes, pulled off her socks and straightened. With a snap of her fingers she left the room without a sound and landed smack dab at the edge of the maple trees. Glancing around, she could see the house in the distance and the outline of the sign. “Good, I’m in the right place.” She wandered farther in among the trees, the dirt beneath her feet was cool. Wiggling her toes deeper into the earth, she felt the warmth of the day and something else—a connection.
Several trees had a slight glow to them, then it was gone. Am I imagining…She raised her arms out from her sides and turned her face to the starlit sky letting the magic surge through her. It had been almost a year since magic of any kind called to her. It felt so good, she was lost in the moment.
Suddenly a male voice broke through her revelry. “What are you doing here?”
Her heart thundered in her chest. She hadn’t heard a sound. Yet, there he was standing not three feet from her, hands on hips, and glaring at her.
Her heart thundered in her chest. She hadn’t heard a sound. Yet there he was standing not three feet from her, hands on hips, and glaring at her. The aura around him flashed red. Not good. Saving grace at the moment was the calm Caribbean ocean blue simmering below the rage red—what’s this—a spark of magic? Where’d that come from? He’s no witch or… Once again her insatiable curiosity overwhelmed her good sense.
Available at Amazon, AmazonUK, AmazonAU, AmazonCA Barnes&Nobel and itunes
Pssst… While you’re here, don’t forget to check out my paranormal romance/mysteries click here.
Thanks for stopping in for my Sunday Snippet.
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Posted in Authors' Secrets Blog and tagged fantasy, ghosts, Mystic Maples, Paranormal Romance/Mystery, Tena Stetler, Time travel, Witches by Tena Stetler with comments disabled.
