July 2015

Dear Readers,

Gads, is it July already?

Happy July 4th ... a bit belatedly ... and have a great month!

Basket Bonanza!

When I began writing Basket Case, I immersed myself in researching basketry. I knew I'd never use all I learned for my basket weaving character, Sherry Mae Stanton Cutler, but I wanted a solid grasp on the subject in order write about it clearly.

I had a blast learning about American Indian basket legends and lore, the various types of baskets, and old world and modern uses for baskets. And oh, the plethora of materials used in basket making around the world! If it's fibrous and flexible, it can be crafted into a basket.

Fun fact. Did you know that egg baskets are rounded on the bottoms? The reason is simple. The round shape keeps fragile eggs from rolling into each other and so reduces the chances of breakage. Here are photos of an egg basket I inherited from my mother. Notice the divided bottom in the second picture.

 

   

 

 

Here's another basket I inherited from my mother. I don't know that it had a specific use, but I count at least three materials use in its construction, including what I'm fairly sure is braided reed. And, oh, the gorgeous handle!

 

   

I grew up with baskets used for the decorative storage of fire wood, magazines, etc., and also grew up hearing basket-related idioms. Of course, "basket case" is one. Another was the ever popular, "Don't put all your eggs in one basket."  

  

What basket idioms do you know? Do you have a favorite? Do you have another fun tidbit about baskets in general to share? I feel a drawing coming on!

Giveaway
E-mail me at [email protected] and share anything you'd like about baskets, including basket idioms, your favorite types of baskets, or how you use baskets in your home. Please put "July Drawing" in the subject line!

I'll give away a $10 gift card to either Barnes & Noble or Amazon. (Suitable for spending on a pre-order of Basket Case! <grins>)  

 

The winner will be chosen at random from among those responding. Deadline to hear from you: July 31, 2015.

 

June Drawing Result: Congratulations to Joy I. who won the June drawing for telling me about her experiences living in a small town. Thanks for participating, Joy!

Sneak Peek at Basket Case!

I've had such fun incorporating aspects of Basket Case into my swag! Here is just one of the goodies I'll be giving away at book signings! I'll have more swag fun for you in August!

 

Mini-basket and Bookmark Swag

Y'all Come Back!
Thanks so much for being with me! I'll see you in August with more news about the Silver Six Crafting Mysteries and the release of Basket Case. Until then, take good care!

 

This eNews is lovingly prepared by Coffee Time Romance & More

Coming September 2015

Upcoming Events:

 

Saturday, October 3, 2015, 2 pm
B&N Firewheel
190 Cedar Sage Drive
Garland, TX 75040

* Portion of the sales to benefit Richardson Adult Literacy Center

 

Sunday, October 4, 2015 3-6 pm
10th annual Buns & Roses Romance Tea for Literacy
Renaissance Hotel,
Richardson, TX

Keynote: Tessa Dare

 

Thursday, Oct. 8, 2015 4-7 pm
Columbia County Library, Magnolia, AR
220 E Main St
Magnolia, AR

(870) 234-1991