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As many of you may know, our beloved sister hostess SHARON DONOVAN, tragically passed away on 11th April 2012. We who knew her, loved her, and were inspired by her courage and determination to face head on whatever life threw at her. When she could no longer see to paint she turned to writing and showed her amazing talent in the Inspirational Romance and Romantic Suspense genres, and her story 'Charade Of Hearts' was awarded the coveted Predators and Editors Award in January 2011.

This Blog was a source of great delight to her, she was one of the founder hostesses and she contributed to the fun and silliness in her own original way, and was kind enough to let her unique creation, the hunky butler 'Oliver' join us for our Friday romp and prepare 'virtual breakfast' for the guests on the following morning. It's beyond hard to have to go on without her, but we know that she would have been the first to insist that 'the show must go on.' She is, and will always be with us in spirit.
Sharon, dear friend, we will never forget you.
The Author Roast and Toast is part of the legacy you left us. Let's raise a Toast to you as well as all our guests.
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Friday, July 16, 2010

A Seasonal Celebration for Roseanne Dowell


'Deck the halls with balls of holly, tralalalala lala la la"

The three hostesses are nearly falling over themselves as they skurry around busily putting the finishing touches to the Christmas decorations, while the sun streams through the windows of the old house.

Wait a moment - have the hostesses and Oliver gone completely nuts! It's July for goodness sake!

The large dining room is covered in Christmas candles, decorations and fairy lights, with a large Christmas tree with a stack of
presents beneath. There is a holly wreath on the half opened door, and a Christmas tree on the doorstep. What is going on?

Well, you see, it's Roseanne Dowell's Celebration Roast - and we're having 'Christmas in July'! Don't worry about the sunshine and lack of snow though. The house backs onto the beach, so after Christmas dinner we might all go down to the beach for a swim.

In the kitchen, Oliver, with his Santa hat on and holly pinned to his shirt, is putting out the glasses while making sure the roast chicken, rack of pork chops and beef roast are cooked to perfection.









 He's also keeping an eye on the vegetables, fresh garden peas, carrots, and parslied potatoes.

In the walk in refrigerator is a large ice cream cake, suitably decorated with Christmas bells and Roseanne's cover, and a generous sprinkling of 'hundreds and thousands'. There is also a chocolate Christmas pudding, and a delicious light and creamy triple chocolate desert.
Of course, being Christmas, in July, there has to be a seasonal fruit punch, and for something with a 'kick' Oliver is ready to serve Roseanne's favourite tipples, Chocolate martini and Fuzzy navels.


As usual, the magic of the Roast (or was it fairy dust from Cuddles horn?) has performed it's wonders and the three are at their most glamorous selves. Lyn sits and pulls on her red slippers over her little feet. For once she has shoes that actually fit her, rather than the ones several sizes too big for her the hostesses usually make her wear - well it is Christmas! (sort of).

Mary admires herself in the mirror. Riiiiiiiiip! Ooops the strain of her enhanced chest is just too much for the skimpy red Santa outfit.

She blushes and tries in vain to pull the two halves of her bodice together. "Here." Sharon says, passing her a large white bow and a needle and thread. "Try that." While Mary holds the bow over her chest, Sharon swiftly stitches it in place. She steps back. "There." she says. "All done." That should hold as long as you don't breathe out!"

Sharon dances off to see if Oliver's finished in the kitchen. She looks chic in a red Santa hat and short, flared dress, which just manages to skim over her curvaceous figure, and cover her purty bubblebutt.
There's a clatter of hooves in the courtyard. Oliver presses a switch and although it's still daylight, the floodlights illuminate the courtyard and the fairylights twinkle in the trees. Oliver, the hostesses and all the guests rush to the door. A Cinderella coach drawn by two white horses pulls up, and out steps

Roseanne, looking like a fairy tale Christmas Prncess in a white silk blouse with a long, rose colored flowing silk skirt, a diamond tiara on her head and a diamond necklace and bracelet. She pauses to talk to the horses, before Oliver holds out his arm and escorts her to the dining hall. Merry Christmas everyone, the party's about to begin!
For a chance to win a download of her book, 'Time to Live Again', leave a comment and perhaps you could answer this question - if there are twelve days of Christmas in December, how many are there in July?

While the guests are settling into their seats and Oliver makes sure Roseanne's glass is filled and she has a plentiful helping of everything, let's hear more about her and her book 'Time To Live Again'. If we're lucky we may be treated to a trailer as well.

Roseanne is the mother of six, grandmother of thirteen with another on the way and soon to be great grandmother. She teaches writing classes at Long Story Short Writing School - www.lsswritingschool.com You can find more of Roseanne’s work at Amazon.com, just type in her name. Besides writing, Roseanne enjoys reading, quilting, ceramics, and making jewelry. She’s a member of NEORWA.


Time to Live Again-

Fifty-eight year old, Rose Asbury knows people think she’s a recluse, but she doesn’t care. She just wants to be left alone. She doesn’t need anyone, and no one needs her and that’s just fine. At least she didn’t until this year. For some reason this year is different. Suddenly she’s melancholy and discontent with her life.

And the man next door doesn’t help matters. Every time he sees her, he insists on speaking to her. Not to mention the little girl next door and her friends who begin harassing Rose. Rose knows she couldn’t be the man’s daughter. He’s much too old.

To make matters worse, Rose's sister comes back. Back to haunt her that is.

Excerpt




Doesn’t that man ever stay in the house? Rose slammed her car door and tried to ignore the man next door. She wished he’d let her get away without trying to talk to her, just once. But why should this time be any different? She lowered her head and hurried toward her house. She wasn’t in the mood for conversation. At least not with him.

“Hello, Rose, uh...Mrs. Asbury.” He dropped his snow shovel, grabbed something from his garage and hurried toward her.

His relaxed, tall, lean body in a denim jacket and jeans caused a stir of excitement in her. Even his graying temples aroused something in her that she found way too familiar. Stirred up feelings she didn’t want stirred up. She barely glanced at him, yet she felt a tug on her heart.

Darn! Rose pulled her coat closed against the cold wind. Why didn’t he just leave her alone? You’d think by now he’d realize she didn’t care to talk to him. Her stomach fluttered, a feeling she hadn’t experienced in a long time. Hunger pangs, or nerves, that’s all. She nodded a hello, like always, and hurried to her house.

Suddenly, Rose’s feet slid out from under her. Splat! She landed on her butt, fell back and hit her head. Groceries flew everywhere. Oh crap, just what she needed. She looked up into the gray eyes of the man leaning over her.

“Are you all right?”

Heat rose to her face. Other than humiliated, she was fine. A bit sore, but she didn’t think she had any broken bones. She tried to sit up.

132 comments:

  1. Welcome to your celebration, Roseanne! wOW! It's Christmas in July. Might I add how lovely you look in your festive outfit, and what a fantasy, a ride in a Cinderella coach! You are one busy lady and I wish you all good things. Oliver, a chocolate martini for Roseanne, please. Mmm...the food smells delicious. Oh, all right, just a taste of the roasted chicken!

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  2. First of all, congratulations on a great story for the AARP crowd, of which I am a member. Secondly, I like to believe there are 31 days of Christmas in July...the only way to think to get through this NC heat!

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  3. Hi Sharon. Lyn runs over and hugs her sister hostess.

    Welcome, Roseanne. I see Sharon and Oliver are taking good care of you.

    Thank you OLiver, I'll have a chocolate martini while we're waiting for the other guests to arrive, too please.

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  4. Hi Nancy,
    Welcome to Roseanne's celebration Roast.

    31 days of Christmas sounds like a great idea!

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  5. Hello, Everyone. I'm so happy to be here. Christmas is my favorite holiday, so when given a chance who wouldn't like to celebrate it twice? Besides, I love presents, LOL. I hope everyone has a wonderful time. I can't wait to announce the winner of my book. I'll post that tomorrow evening. Have a great time everyone.

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  6. I like Christmas in July! Christmas is my favorite holiday. I've never been to an author roast before. Looks interesting. Have a great day Roseanne!

    I've got to go with 31 days in July.

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  7. Hi Roseanne, it's gret to have you here as our guest of honour. .

    I agree, I love Christmas too. What a good idea to have it twice in a year! Tuck into the feast Oliver has prepared for you. Can't wait until we cut that ice cream cake but I'm going to leave room for some chocolate pudding too!

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  8. Oh no rush to post your winner, Roseanne, our Roasts often spill into Saturday as well, you never know who's going to turn up at the last minute!

    Welcome to our Roast Suzanne. If you've never been to a Roast before stay awhile and join in the fun. This ain't your average Blogspot, and anything can happen (and usually does). Wouldn't surprise me if Rosie's ghostly sister from Roseanne's book decides to turn up!

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  9. Oh, Dahlings, what a wonderful party and what a wonderrrrful idea to hold Christmas in July. I know this looks like Roseanne is posting, but that's because I have the power to get inside of her. It's one of the perks of being a ghost. The food is to die for and Oliver, my dear, are you available? The chocoloate martinis are deeeevine. Have a wonderful time everyone. I'll be floating around here, observing. Another perk, I can see you, but you can't see me. Of course, I had to put in an appearance for Rose. She's too stubborn for her own good. If I had a neighbor as goodlooking as Stephen, I wouldn't have ignored him, I can tell you that right now. I laughed my butt off when she fell. Served her right. Why she insists on being so rude is beyond me. What an old grouch. Oops, she heard that. bye

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  10. UH OH, Mary, yes Rose did hear that. She's not too happy with you right now. But I'm sure she'll get over it. She always did, right? Thank you, Sharon. I love my dress. I alwasy enjoy getting dressed up. Everything looks beautiful. So festive. The only thing missing is the snow. But I can live without that. I'd much rather take a swim later. Great suggestion by the way. I can see the kids are out there playing in the waves already. They're such little darlings even if the bother Rose.

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  11. Hello - a ghostly guest, what fun!
    Welcome. I don't suppose you can actually eat anything can you? That's a pity because Shaorn's butler, Oliver, is the greatest chef in the world. Never mind settle somewhere comfortable and tell us all about yourself. I don't think we even know your name!

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  12. Glad you like your dress, Roseanne.
    I have to say it really suits you.
    Yes, a Christmas swim would be fun.

    As for the snow, well, I know it's July, but on the Roast, anything is possible, you never know what might happen come midnight!

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  13. Ah, my dear, Hywela Lyn of course I can eat and all I want. Being a ghost, I no longer have to worry about my girlish figure. I never gain an ounce. Another perk. I just filled my plate with a little of everything and I don't have to worry about saving room for dessert because I always have room. Oh this food is delicious. My compliments to the chef.
    Did you know Roseanne is actually a great grandmother. Yes, her granddaughter presented her with her great grandson in June. A beautiful litle boy if I say so myself.

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  14. Oh, I never thought about the perks of being a ghost, that sounds great, to be able to eat anything you like and never get fat or feel full! Mmm. (Not sure I'm ready to quit this life quite yet though.) Oh |I can see Oliver beaming with pride. Not sure if he's ever been complimented by a ghost before!

    And Roseanne's a great grandmother you say? Wow, she doesn't look nearly old enough! Congratulations Roseanne!

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  15. My sister thinks she's so smart. Big deal she can eat anything. Who cares? She's such a pain sometimes. She bugged me constantly in Time to Live Again. Just showed up all of a sudden and scared the bejesus out of me. So she laughed when I fell. Figures. But darn, I miss her. She was my best friend. Oh well, at least she pays a visit sometimes.
    Did you know Roseanne has three more books coming out with Red Rose. Yep, the first - Designed by Destiny will be out in August. Another Day will be relased in September and my all time favorite (not that the other two aren't good, they are trust me) Shadows in the Attic is due to be released in October. The reason that one is my favorite is because it's another paranormal and a mystery.

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  16. Hi Rose - ooh do take a seat and join in the Christmas feast.Yes, sisters, I know what you mean, they can be a pain sometimes, but we wouldn't be without them for the world.

    Gosh Roseanne sounds a busy lady! Mmm, I agree with you Rose, I love paranormals too!

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  17. Hi Rose - ooh do take a seat and join in the Christmas feast.Yes, sisters, I know what you mean, they can be a pain sometimes, but we wouldn't be without them for the world.

    Gosh Roseanne sounds a busy lady! Mmm, I agree with you Rose, I love paranormals too!

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  18. I'm glad Rose stopped in to pay a visit. She's really a very nice person. I guess I am pretty busy. Yes, I am a great grandmother and it's such a joy. In fact, one of my granddaughters just got married this past Saturday. Beautiful wedding. So who knows, maybe I'll be a greatgrandmother again. It's kind of funny because I'll be a grandmother for the 14th time in September. Quite an age span between grandchildren. I guess that's what happens when you have six children.
    But that's not why I stopped in. I thought I'd tell you a bit more about Time to Live Again. You've met Rose and Mary. I'd like to tell you a bit about Stephen. He's a real gem. I mean seriously. He's the neatest guy and all he wants is to befriend Rose. He's not looking for anything more than friendship. But the way she puts him off, well let's say she's become a bit of a challenge. And he's bound and determined to crack that tough exterior. He can't figure her out. She avoids him at all costs. He's made friends with a few of her neighbors and discovers she used to be the Kool-aid Mom on the block. So what has her so uptight now? Was it him? Did he come on too strong? He didn't think so, but one of these days he was going to find out. Of course then his granddaughter and her friends started annoying Rose. So they built snowmen in her yard and went sledding. Hey she was the only house with a hill for sledding. It wasn'tlke they were hurting anything. They just wanted to have fun.

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  19. That bow didn't work. So I found a stapler and stapled my top together. Whew, when you have such a good set you have to be careful. I'm so glad to see everyone. Lyn, what a wonderful party you have arranged. I do love my outfit. Junior looks very cute and the Christmas bells jingle as he walks he loves it. He says to wish Rosanne the best with her book.
    Are those reindeer Lyn? Look at the one with the horn in the middle of his head. A unicorn? Any relation to Cuddles?

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  20. Mary has been on a diet and looks the food over drooling.
    Suddenly a handsome man comes up to her and plants a kiss on her. Mary is dizzy when he smiles and walks away. Who was that man?
    Sharon you do look lovely and you have to try this. Suddenly Mary screams and passes out after yelling Ghost at the top of her lungs. Lyn rushes to help her up. Ghosts!!

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  21. I'm envious. I had so much fun at my Roast & Toast, I wanna do it again. :) Glad to see Roseanne here. I had the pleasure of reviewing her book on my examiner.com column and I must say, I truly enjoyed it. She captured the essence of an older heroine, alone at a critical time in life. I could so identify since I divorced after thirty-two years and found myself starting all over at fifty. It's not as liberating as one would think.
    I'm going to go enjoy the festivities now. Christmas is my favorite time of the year and I think we should have a second on in July every year. :)

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  22. LOL Roseanne, you really ARE a busy lady! I don't know how you find time to write such great books. And thanks for telling us about stephen. Ooh, he does sound like a hunk! I'll bet he gets round Rose in the end!

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  23. Mary! Lyn runs over to Mary and hugs her. Calm down seeet sisteer hostess, that's just Rosie's sister, a character in Roseanne's book. She's a ghost yes, but a very friendly one.

    Tee hee, I bet you had to use an industrial stapler, Mary, you know Sharon told you not to breath out! LOL.

    I think that guy was Stephen. Isn't he gorgeous. I have a feeling he's taken though!



    Yes, Junior and Cuddles look cute wearing those little jingle bells don't they. That little reindeer is sweet, I didn't know Santa Klaus had one of those. I think he probably is a distant relation to Cuddles.

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  24. Hi Sisters, I'm back. Sharon rushes over to hug Lyn and Mary. Oliver ran out of chocolate for his special martinis since so many are being shaken, so I ran to the North Pole. Fell on my petite behind twice and two elves helped me up. Roseanne, how right you are. Christmas is great and we are going to go swimming later in the igloo and perhaps some magical snow will fall. Or we can ice skate. Anything is possible at the R&R! Hi Nancy, Rose, Suzanne! Oliver, hop to it with those martinis. Yes, a bite to eat would be lovely since my journey north!

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  25. Ginger, thanks for stopping by. I'm thrilled that you enjoyed my book. I'm so sorry to hear about your divorce. That must have been very difficult after all that time. Why don't you do the roast again with a different book. I plan to. It's such fun and I'm really enjoying the party. When can we open presents?

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  26. Hi Ginger

    Great to have you join Roseanne's Roast. Glad you like the idea of Christmas in July. It's good isn't it! Yes, we had a goiod time on your Roast, there's nothing stopping you from being roasted twice though, if you've the nerve for it! (Wicked grin).

    Yes, I'm going to have to read Roseanne's book, it sounds really good and Stephen sounds like such a likeable hero. (I can see Mary's smitten already! LOL)

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  27. Hey Roseanne - it's your party, so if you wanna open presents, just dive in!

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  28. Hywela Lyn, Yes Stephen is a hunk. Oh my, Mary, I hope the staples work. Oliver, another martini, please

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  29. Whoever he was he was hot!
    I don't mind being a senior citizen, Lyn gave me a youthful body this week. So I am gonna enjoy it to the fullest, where did that guy go.
    Sharon why are you limping. Oh, yeah I know. Lyn, she thinks her feet are tiny. We never supply her shoes, she just said that. Look at the new size 13 shoes we found. These should fit and they are lovely. I want to see you walk in these six inch heels.
    Oh look, it can't be! It's snowing!!! WOW! Let's go play in it!

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  30. Hi Ginger! Sharon hugs her. Welcome! You can come back any time and we'll be sure and toast you. But in the meantime, have some food and drink and be merry. It's Christmas in July, after all!
    Oh, yes, let's run out and build a snowman or have a snowball fight. Last one out's a rotten igloo!

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  31. SNOW!! What loavey way to cool off in this 90 degree heatwave we've been having. I'll enjoy it now, because I'm not a big fan of it come winter time. But it does look beautiful. Anyone care to build a snowman?

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  32. Ginger---taking off her size ten shoe. Here, use this. It works great as a sled.

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  33. We have tons of sleds...and the ghosts of Christmas Past are stealing them!!

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  34. Roseanne,
    Your celebration is awesome!! Oliver's blog is so cool.

    I read the excerpt and it made me want to read more:)
    Now I understand why it's Christmas in July!

    To answer the question I think if there are twelve days of Christmas in December there must be twelve days on July:) Since it is now the 16th that means it will go until July 28th. That's only three days from my birthday!

    Will come back for my martini. The food looks so yummy!
    Have fun! It's your day!

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  35. I'm gonna have to change, but I'm up for a snowman. We could make him very handsome. Mary throws on a coat and runs out to feel snowflakes land on her tongue.
    It's coming down fast! I'm startin' my snowman.
    Come on you guys. We can use anything 10 or above for a sled. Your shoes will work perfect Lyn. Sharon can just slide down on her butt. HEHEHEHEHE

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  36. OOH Lionmother I like that!!
    Good one!

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  37. Mary makes several snowmen and then they magically come to life.
    Help they're chasing me, Lyn, Sharon, Rosanne, anyone!!!

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  38. Sharon packs a hard snowball and smacks Mary in her gaping mouth. Take that, Mary Ricksen! Haahaahaaaa

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  39. Wow, Lyn, those shoes of yours really work. But look at your popsicle toes! Come on Roseanne, let's get going on this snowman! Look at Ginger go! She can't stop and she's heading straight for the lake! Roseanne, where oh where are your ghosts when we need them?

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  40. The lake ain't frozen! Look out Ginger, oooh, well get some towels and we'll get you a change of clothing. No, I wasn't laughing, honest. Mary marshals her band of snow men. Ready, aim, fire!!!! Mary and her snowmen plaster Sharon with snowballs. Take that Sharon!!! HEHEHE
    OW! Mary turns and sees Lyn has got her right down her back. I'll get you Lyn, Mary chases Lyn...

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  41. Sharon tumbles over from the barrage of snowballs, smacks into Lyn who smacks into Mary who smacks into Ginger who smacks into Roseanne. They go down face first like dominos! The ghosts of Christmas Past Present and Future all cover them up, laughing like hyenas.

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  42. Man is that cold! Sharon could you move your tiny butt out of my face. Get Ginger some towels. She's wet!
    Wait, I see it in the distance. It's the Duke, he came to say hello. I wish he would bring that James Gang guy, the handsome one.
    Rosanne, oh my, let's find her, she's under the snow somewhere. Where is a good ghost when you need one?

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  43. Glug, sniffle, gloof. Phew that's better, I can breathe now. This snow's rather pleasant actually, after the hot July sun! Like bathing in ice cream!

    Ooh you pesky ghosts, don't dematerialize, I'm gonna get you!

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  44. Not the Duke again!!! Let's bombard him with snowballs! Oh, no, he has the James Gang coming up and it's my man Jessie! Sharon in her haste to greet him, knocks Mary over and the whole lot of them go down again like the Titanic.

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  45. Why do I always end up on the bottom of these pileups.
    Mary waves to the Duke and Jesse peers from behind him. Sharon sees him and rushed up to grab him and liplock. Let him up for air Sharon, periodically. Mary and Lyn wonder how she does it. Even wet she's hot!
    Well let's have a little more background Rosanne, So Who's hot in your book? What's your hero and heroine really like?

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  46. Do take a breath Sharon, Jesse has fainted from lack of. You do know how to grab a man. HEHE.
    Whoops, need some more staples. Mary slaps the hand of one of the ghosts who reaches to help her. Not in my lifetime...
    But that Stephen he has possibilities. Where is Rosanne???
    Mary looks around frantic, she can't still be out under the snow can she?

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  47. Sorry, I missed out on some fun. I got called away, but I'm back now. Hope everyone's not too tired to build another snowman. Hey, how about we build a bonfire and roast some marshmallows?

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  48. I'm game, love them all gooey!
    While Lyn starts the fire. She was the UK girl scout. Sharon is lucky if she can wait for the marshmallows to cook!
    Tell us more about your book. The hero, the heroine, love to hear more!

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  49. HEHEH I'm here, watching the uh...festivities. Oh such fun, sorry you fell in the lake (turns away and grins) Oh by the way, I'm Mary, not Roseanne. I should let her take the blame for this post, but I just don't have the heart

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  50. Mary, I'm Mary! You have to be ahhhh, yes, you are a character? Tell me about yourself Mary. Mary, Mary, quite contrary how does your garden grow? Will silver bells and cockle shells, and one darn petuna!

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  51. Let me tell you about my best friend, Louise Jordan. Louise, Mary, and I were inseperable. I mean really inseperable, where you saw one, you saw the other two. We got together every weekend in the summer for cookouts and our kids were great friends. In fact Louise and I used to hope her my son and her daughter would get married. I met Louise the first day of school. Francis took Molly under his wing so to speak and Louise and I have been friends ever since. She was there for me when my parents passed away and was my rock, along with Mary when Frank died. I tired to shut her out when Mary died. That was the topper on the cake. I just couldn't deal with life any more. But Louise wouldn't let me be. She was always trying to fix me up with someone and pushed me into joining the Senior Center, not that I would. What did I want with a bunch of old people? Anyway, Louise didn't give up on me.

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  52. Did you forget already? I'm Mary, Rose's sister uh ghost.

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  53. Sounds like you have some wonderful lifelong friends and a very special ghost sister.
    Thank God for friends!!! They make life worth it. Even with the hard parts.

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  54. Well with all these naughty Marys going around, who needs Bloody Marys? LOL

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  55. Hi, I'm Sarah. I live with Grandpa next to Mrs. Asbury. She's likes to act grouchy, but I saw her smile once. So I don't think she's as grouchy as she pretends to be. Besides, Grandpa likes her. I can tell cause he tries to talk to her all the time. But she won't talk to him. I don't know why cause Grandpa is a really nice man. So me and my friends played in her yard and built a couple snowmen. We didn't hurt nothing. But she told my grandpa and got me into trouble. I love Grandpa, but I want my Mommy and Daddy to come home. They're in the Army and they went to Iraq. That scares me cause bad things are happening there.

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  56. I don't think I told you, I have two children, Francis and Melinda. Francis lives in CA and Melinda in OR. That's a long way from OH. I don't see them too often because they're busy with work and raising their families. They don't come home too often and I understand. They invite me out there a lot, but I don't want to be a burden. I don't want to interfere in their lives. I mean the last thing they need is their mother around. I'd feel like a fifth wheel.

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  57. Mary, I'll bet your kids feel differently. Besides you don't take up much space in your corporal form, they may not know you are there. But you could keep and eye on them.

    Sarah? Let's hope they all come home from Iraq, soon!!!

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  58. Mary, you're a little confused, I'm Rose with the two kids. Mary is my sister, the ghost. But that's okay, I get confused sometimes too. LOL I feel sad about Sarah. She's a cute little girl and reminds me of Melinda when she was little. Of course, I didn't know about her parents at first. For all I knew she was Stephen's daughter. I know he's kind of old to have a 7 year old, but now days who can tell. Old men marry younger women all the time. Of course I found out later, she's his granddaughter. But kids shouldn't play in people's yards without permssion.

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  59. Hi again Mary, Rose - and hello Thank you Sarah. It's great to meet you. Thank you so much for introducing us to them, Roseanne.It's great finding out more about them. Now what happened to that lovely guy Stephen. I'm sure he was around earlier.

    *Thinks* Hmm, I could be in with a chance here. Sharon's off with Jesse and Mary's playing 'hotlips' with The Duke!

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  60. Stephen's around someplace. I thought I saw him talking with Sarah in the corner. I saw her looking through the presents a while ago, so she's probably in trouble again. Her friends are around here some place. I'm surprised they're not out building snowmen or sledding. Oh there's Stephen, out by the pool in his bathing suit. Looks like he's going for a dip. Wow, look at those muscles. For an older guy, he sure is in shape. Bet he works out.

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  61. I can't help it. He looks like he did when he was 20. Hubba, hubba,. I guess I got confused cause Mary used Rose's site to comment. Guess It's this age thing creeping up on me.
    Poor little Sarah, as I said I hope they send em all home soon!
    Stephen's grand daughter was just playing Rose, why did you get upset?

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  62. I get confused too Mary, I think it has something to do with age. You're right, Mary did speak through me,didn't she.
    Why did I get upset? Back in my day you didn't play in people's yards without permission. I just wanted to be left alone. Is that too much to ask? Apparently some people, like Stephen and Louise, not to mention Mary, seem to think it is. They think I'm supposed be out there socia lizing. Well maybe I just didn't feel like it. Louise doesn't understand, she has her hubby and her whole family around her. Mary never understood either. At night her hubby came home and they forgot all about me. They didn't understand how lonely it was. They kept trying to get me to meet new men. I didn't want new men, I wanted Frank. But he was gone. So when the kids started playing in my yard it annoyed me. I don't know maybe it brought back too many memories. Memories of what life used to be like.

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  63. You'll be hearing from my attorney. *lol* I hope you have good liability insurance. Not only did I ruin my new clothes, but now my shoe is shredded for sledding on it. I have a bad case of frostbite on my toes, and...Well, I just hope you have a good attorney of your own. *rofl*

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  64. Ginger, I hope you're talking about Sharon and company and not me. Grin...I'm sorry your clothes and shoes got ruined. You looked so pretty too. Oh my, look at those toes, they are a bit purple aren't they? Do they hurt much? Here, I thought the sisters were going to get you some new clothes. Let's look under the tree, maybe there's a presnt for you.
    Rose crawls around on hands and knees looking at presents. Oh look, here's one for Ginger. A nice big box too. Quick open it, I can't wait to see what's in it.

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  65. Hey, I want a present too. Roseanne joins Rose on the floor and digs through presents, Here's one for Sharon and Hywela Lyn. Oh look, Mary, here's one for you Oliver and a big one for Sarah. Here's a small one, let's see whose name is on it, Stephen. I bet it's something good. I still don't see any for me. Darn, Sharon, here's another one for you. Pretty heavy too. Can't wait to see what's in that one.

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  66. Gifts, did someone mention the gifts? I spent a fortune and I hope everyone loves the clothes and toys. Adults and children alike. Sorry about your clothes Ginger, we have a virtual dry cleaners if you need it.
    www.cleanme.com. Try it.

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  67. Aw Rose, I can so sympathise with you. But there comes a time when you just have to move on and carry on living, you know?

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  68. Rose is off in the corner, looks like Stephen is trying to talk to her. Oh look, Sarah is going to play something on the piano. Christmas Carols. I love Christmas Carols, let's join her and sing. OHHH look, Stephen put his arm around Rose. I wonder what's going on there. Oops, spoke too soon, Rose left the room. Come on everyone, Sarah's playing Deck the Halls, I love that song.

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  69. Come on everyone, tell me what's in all those big boxes? I'm still looking for one for me. I'm sure there's one here somewhere. There's sooooo many presents. It's going to take us all night to open them. Oh, I found one. Now, let's see what's in it. Roseanne removes the bow and unwraps the gift very slowly and opens the box. Oh my gosh, I can't believe it. I've always wanted one of these.

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  70. Aw, Ging, be a sport. We can settle out of court. And like Rose said, you get a Christmas present in July. Now allow Oliver to stir you up a hot chocolate martini.

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  71. Hey, Ging, I agree, come on have a chocolate martini with me and I promise, you'll get the first slice of chocolate ice cream cake. Doesn't it look delicious. Whoever decorated it did a fantastic job. I think we better have something to eat first. Let's dig in and have some of that delicious food. Sarah's still playing Christmas Carols. She's really quite good. Deck the Halls with boughs of holly, fa la la la la lallala la. Okay so I can't sing but I try

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  72. Hey, everyone join in. Roseanne claps her hands and dances around the piano.
    Jingle bell, jingle bell, jingle bell rock
    Jingle bells swing and jingle bells ring
    Snowing and blowing up bushels of fun
    Now the jingle hop has begun

    Jingle bell
    jingle bell
    jingle bell rock
    Jingle bells chime in jingle bell time
    Dancing and prancing in Jingle Bell Square
    In the frosty air


    What a bright time
    it's the right time
    To rock the night away
    Jingle bell time is a swell time
    To go gliding in a one-horse sleigh
    Giddy-up jingle horse
    pick up your feet
    Jingle around the clock
    Mix and a-mingle in the jingling feet
    That's the jingle bell

    That's the jingle bell
    That's the jingle bell rock

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  73. Hey, I don't hear anyone singing. What you didn't like that song. I'll sing louder if you don't join in. How about this one.
    Have a holly, jolly Christmas;
    It's the best time of the year
    I don't know if there'll be snow
    but have a cup of cheer
    Have a holly, jolly Christmas;
    And when you walk down the street
    Say Hello to friends you know
    and everyone you meet

    Oh
    ho
    the mistletoe
    hung where you can see;
    Somebody waits for you;
    Kiss her once for me
    Have a holly jolly Christmas
    and in case you didn't hear
    Oh by golly
    have a holly
    jolly Christmas this year

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  74. The three hostess's begin to dance to the Jingle Bell Rock. Good thing we bought you that Boise system. Nice music huh? That was the big box. But you have so many others. Mary opens a package from Sharon and shrieks as paper and other things bombard her. Very funny Sharon. You open one sweetie. Mmmm...
    Oliver we need more martinis mixed. Where are you?

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  75. Here's another excerpt from Time to Live Again
    Rose backed up and bumped the refrigerator. “Ouch! Darn it.” She hurt bad enough without making it worse. “Who the hell are you?” Darn, it sounded like–
    “It’s me. Don’t you recognize me?”
    Rose peered at the shadow. “Recognize you, I can hardly see you.” She rubbed her eyes. This was ridiculous.
    “He helped you, Rose. You could have invited him in.” The voice went on.
    “I didn’t ask for any help. I could have managed on my own. Besides, I don’t like the feelings he arouses in me.” Somehow she couldn’t help answering aloud. She shook her head. Good grief, now she was talking to herself.
    “Why not? Frank used to stir those same feelings. Quit acting like you’re dead. Wake up, live. You’ve become a recluse. There’s a big world out there that you used to love. You enjoyed people. The man was only trying to be friendly.” The voice didn’t let up.
    Something about the voice sounded like her sister, Mary. But Mary had been dead for two years. She wished the voice would leave her alone. She poured a cup of coffee and pulled her sweater tight, went into the living room, set her coffee on the table and turned on the television. Winter weather advisories crawled across the screen. She glanced out the window. Already, a thick blanket of white covered the trees and bushes. She used to love snowstorms, but it seemed like ages ago.
    Memory of when her kids were little, and she went outside and helped build snowmen or had snowball fights made her smile. Those were the days. They had loved the first big snowfall. But time passes and kids grow up. She sighed. Grow up and move away. Now snow was nothing more than a nuisance. She hated driving in it, but at least the road crews kept the main roads pretty clear. They even salted and plowed her street more frequently than normal.
    A thumping noise against the house interrupted Rose’s thoughts. “What in the world?” She got up and limped to the door, rubbing her hip. Already it hurt.
    Just as she pulled the door open, four little pairs of legs raced around the bushes into the next yard.
    “Little monsters,” she mumbled. “Go throw snowballs at your own house.” Shaking her head, she slammed the door. What’s wrong with kids nowadays? Her kids had been taught to respect people’s property. Not that they were saints by any means, but they showed adults proper respect, or she’d know the reason why.
    If any neighbor had corrected her kids, they darn well better have listened. Today, kids acted like they owned the world. Didn’t give a darn about people’s privacy. And for God’s sakes, don’t tell their parents. “My little Johnny would never do that,” they said. Yeah, right, their little Johnny was usually the ringleader.
    “Oh, for heaven’s sakes, Rose,” the voice returned. “What’s the matter with you? People have been like that for ages. Even back in your day, there were a handful of people that believed their kids could do no wrong. You were a teacher, you ran across that all the time. That’s not the norm, and you know it. You’re not that old. Can’t you remember what it was like to be a kid? You certainly were no angel.”

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  76. "It's the most wonderful time of the yeeeear!"

    Mary claps her hands to her ears and Lyn swats her with a Christmas cracker.

    Oliver - when you've finished pouring chocolate martinis and cutting icecram cake there are some gifts for you too!

    Isn't this fun, so many presents. Oooh look, a new pair of shoes for me, aren't they darling, thank you! They're the perfect size, see - Santa knows I have tiny feet! :)

    Everyone is singing carols and tearing open Christmas presents or pulling crackers with each other

    Have yourself a merry little Christmas... make the yuletide gay...

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  77. As Roseanne reads another excerpt, everyone stops what they're doing to listen with wrapt attention, then they all clap enthusiastically.

    "Wonderful excerpt" Roseanne, one can sympathise with Rose, but Mary's right. And we were all kids once. They didn't mean any harm, did they!

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  78. Okay, I don't know who's fooling around in here, but honest, I didn't post that excerpt six times. Mary (the ghost Mary), are you fooling around again. I remember how much you loved to play tricks on people. That wasn't a very nice one. Sharon, Lyn, or Mary can you take down those extra posts? I'd hate for people to think I was posting six new excerpts.

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  79. Mary, if that's you causing those posts to display more than once, stop it right now. You've had your fun, now behave! I swear, ghosts, you can't take them anywhere.

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  80. Looks like a great roast to me, especially the picture of the roast beef, which is thoroughly undercooked, just the way I like it. Roast beef should moo when you stick a fork in it. Yum!

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  81. Done, Roseanne!

    Lol I wouldn't necessarily blame Mary though, it's well known that the Roast is haunted. We've already had John Wayne, the Duke, and the Hole in the Wall gang here, who knows what other ghosties may be creating havoc!

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  82. Hello Jim

    Welcome to Roseanne's Chritmas celebration. Yes, I agree about the beef - personally I like my beef well done - but Oliver is a perfectionist and always cooks meat by the book! Now you've talked about cows mooing, I don't think I'll ever eat beef again, LOL!

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  83. The roast beef is a bit (a lot) to rare for me, Jim, but I'm glad you like it.The chicken and pork are delicious. Thanks for stopping by and posting a comment.

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  84. Oh my, I'd love to meet the Duke. Roseanne looks around but doesn't see him. Well, it might have been one of the others, but I know how Mary is. Trust me, I wouldn't put it past her.

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  85. Roseanne, what fun! I can't wait to sign up when my book comes out. I loved your blouse and skirt, not to mention the house! This was a great read. Thank you for inviting me.

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  86. Mary brings the Duke to meet Rosanne. They start talking like old friends. Mission accomplished sisters, she is taken with the Duke. Now Dukey, please tell the others to stop causing havoc. No wait, tell them to have a blast, havoc away, go for it. Make the guests happy they are here. It's Christmas. Whoever gave me the coal for a present, not funny.

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  87. Too much fun, Roseanne! Here comes Oliver with a fresh batch of martinis and some cake. Mmm. Thank you, Oliver. Hi Jim, welcome to the celebration. If you believe in ghosts and snow in July, you'll fit right in. Roseanne, thank you for introducing us to your delightful characters. What fun!

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  88. Hi Rebecca, do make yourself at home, pull a cracker, help yourself to whatever's going, there's plenty left, and I've asked Sharon to get Oliver to cook some nice fillet steaks for those of us who like our meat well done (very well done in my case!).

    We only do oen roast a week and we're booked up fairly well in advance, so be sure to contact us in plenty of time if you'd like to be one of our victims -er- I mean guests! LOL

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  89. Ginger *still pouting in the corner* rips off the bow and tears into her present. Her eyes widen, then her jaw drops. "Hey, no fair re-gifting. I gave this same blouse to Sharon last year."

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  90. Hee hee Mary, who do you think put the lump of coal in your stocking, dumpling? Wink wink.
    Rebecca, welcome. We would love to roast you, and like Lyn said, book as soon as possible. Oh here comes Oliver with those sizzling grilled sirloins. Mmmm. He aims to please. Look at those biceps working it tonight. Oliver, more chocolate martinis. Roseanne is still standing, but not for long if she's with the Duke. Chuckle chuckle. Lyn and Mary, sisters, did you think I wouldn't appreciate the gag gift in my stocking? A thong big enough to fit a baby elephant's butt? Good thing I have a sense of humor. Oh, watch the lake when you skate...the water isn't yet frozen. Oops...

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  91. Oh the Duke was just what I expected. He's exactly the way he was on screen, relaxed and oh sooooo sexy. Hey, Rebecca, thanks for stopping by. Sounds like you better sig up soon. And, Ginger, the blouse is beautiful, I can just picture you in it. But look, there's more presents for you. A lump of coal and a thorn. Yowie. You guys are something else. Oh yum steaks just the way I like very well done. Thank you, Oliver. Hey, are you busy later? Hmmmmmm Roseanne takes the martini and licks her lips, Dang, he's a hunk.

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  92. Oliver winks at Roseanne and feeds her a steak. Sharon opens Ginger's gift. Oh, a box of candy...you shouldn't have. Sharon squints. What's this here. Scrapes her finger on the label. Valentine's /Day special. Half off. You got these last February!
    And they're hard as rocks. Sharon flings one at Ginger, then at Lyn, Mary and Roseanne. Pretty soon, it's a full blown candy battle...and we ain't talking Candy Land!

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  93. Lyn ducks then grabs a flying candy before it lands in her eye.

    Oooh, chocolate, soft centres. Who cares if they're a few months old, I just luurve chocolate!

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  94. Ah M'Lady Ro, were you looking over my shoulders when I was preparing my next cover posting? (Here's a sneak peek.) Santa is a Lady is next.

    I am one of the lucky authors who gets to spend time with Roseanne every day, and I cannot begin to tell you what a blessing that is. I would love to sample all your delicious treats, but my tummy isn't quite recovered enough from Tuesday yet...save me some of the left overs, please.

    Since the heat index has us at 102 in the shade, the thought of snow flakes, sleighbells and Christmas is a psychological sopporific I can get behind...besides Christmas is my favorite holidy too.

    Love you, Ro and Happy Holidays to everyone.

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  95. Hmmm Oliver, that steak was to die for. Now ladies, it's not the gift that counts, it's the thought behind it. Whatever the heck that means. Lin, thanks for the sweet comments. I am so enjoying this. You really ought to sign up to do one. I'm having a blast, well I was untl they started that candy fight. It was hard as a rock by the way, I caught one and it darn near broke my hand. Who threw that anyway, The Cleveland Indians want to sign you as a pitcher. LOL

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  96. Hi Lin

    Welcome to the Roast, I'm sure Oliver can find something light and cool for you. A little sorbet perhaps?


    Your book sounds very intriguing., as does Roseannes. It's great learning more about her book and meeting her characters.

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  97. Candy lets not waste anymore of the good stuff. Yeah who threw the rock candy! That stuff smarts. Let's change to something softer.
    Mary stops and admires the huge pair of high heeled shoes that were in a package left for her from Santa. They're lovely shoes, Mary's foot swims in the shoes as she tries them on. Lyn grabs them back and tosses a water balloon at Mary. Don't touch my shoes Lyn yells, slips them on and tosses another balloon at Mary before she can catch her breath. Mary runs to find her own water balloons, I'll get you Lyn, I swear I will. Sharon throws one at Mary, Hey not you too!

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  98. What happened Tuesday Lin. That you have a tummy ache?
    I have one too. So let's feel better.

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  99. Lyn giggles uncontrolably as she points at Mary's chest.

    Watger balloons? They're there, down the front of your bodice sweetie. Watch those staples don't burst th .... oh dear. The guests duck as the balloons explode, showering everyone with water.

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  100. Mary falls down laughing at the balloons. What you gonna do?!

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  101. Congratulations on your newest release from a fellow Red Rose author!

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  102. Good grief, things are getting dangerous in here. Thanks, Kissa. I appreciate that you stopped in. We're having a great time, but every once in a while things get a bit rowdy. Maybe another round of martinis is in order. Or better yet, let's all have some punch.

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  103. Okay, everyone, time for another exceprt. Shhh. Calm down now. Let's have it quiet. I don't want to shout. Okay, good.

    Sarah peeked around the corner of the detached garage. Her friends hid behind her. “I think she saw us.” She made another snowball and raised her arm to throw it.
    “Stop!” Jenny pulled Sarah’s arm. “You’re going to get us into big trouble. She’s going to tell.”
    “Oh, quit being a scaredy-cat.” Sarah tossed the snowball at her friend. “She doesn’t even know where you live. She never pays attention to us.”
    “Yeah, we’ll get into trouble.” Jason and Billy agreed with Jenny.
    “Come on, let’s find something else to do, leave the old lady alone.” Billy turned and ran toward Sarah’s house, the others followed close behind.
    “Party poopers,” Sarah grumbled as she gave in and followed her friends. She kicked the snow with her boots as she followed slowly behind. Big old scaredy-cats, that’s all they are. Don’t want to have no fun. She picked up a handful of snow, looked back at Mrs. Asbury’s house and threw it. Darn it, she was too far away. Oh well, she’d find something else to do.
    She hated that the old lady was rude to her grandpa. All he wanted to do was talk to her, but no, she couldn’t be bothered. Served her right that she fell. Poor Grandpa stood in the drive and watched her go into her house. She didn’t even thank him for helping her. Old Meany. Sarah raced after her friends.

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  104. Another great excerpt Roseanne. It's so enjoyable hearing more of your book, and Sarah, I bet she's a sweetie really. And isn't it funny how 'mature' people seem so old to youngsters. I remember when I was a teenager, anyone over nineteen seemed to be well over the hill! LOL

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  105. Thunderous applause fills the room as Rosanne finishes reading her latest excerpt. Wonderful Rosanne!!!!!!!

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  106. I'm sorry folks, but this side of the pond it's gone midnight and I may turn into a pumpkin if I hang around much longer, so I'm just going to creep away into a quiet corner and catch some shuteye. (On the roast it's quite possible to be in too places at once!)

    Please carry on partying as long as you like. I sleep like a log once my head hits the pillow!

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  107. Thank you, Sarah is a sweetie. I remember when I thought forty was old. LOL but to a child a fifty something person would be old, especially if she was mean and to Sarah she was.

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  108. I'm gonna nap too. See you all in the am. Nite and sweet dreams to all!
    Rosanne party on.

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  109. Night, Mary, but is anyone going to stick around and party. Oliver is staying isn't he?

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  110. Okay, Oliver and I ate all the left over icecream cake (delicious) now I'm boxing up the leftover chicken and pork to take home. Oliver is taking the roast. There's a little more martinis mixed up so I'm going to finish them off also.

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  111. Time to say goodnight. I'll post the winner of the contest tomorrow night.
    Sharon, Lyn, and Mary thanks for having me today. I really enjoyed it. Oliver was a wonderful butler. The food was excellent, the hostesses a blast, and I loved the presents. Before I go, I'd like to let you know I have five books coming out with MuseItUp Publishing.
    Double the Trouble, a romantic mystery will be released in March 2011, Stranger on the Shore, contemporary romance in May, A Second Chance, Contemporary Romance with an older heroine, in June, May I Have this Dance, Sweet Romance in July and Connection of the Minds. paranormal romance in July.

    And I'd like to leave you with this last Christmas song. One of my favorites. Again, thank you for a most enjoyable day.

    It's The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year
    With the kids jingle belling
    And everyone telling you "Be of good cheer"
    It's The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year
    It's the hap -happiest season of all
    With those holiday greetings and gay happy meetings
    When friends come to call
    It's the hap - happiest season of all

    There'll be parties for hosting
    Marshmallows for toasting
    And caroling out in the snow
    There'll be scary ghost stories
    And tales of the glories of
    Christmases long, long ago

    It's The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year
    There'll be much mistltoeing
    And hearts will be glowing
    When love ones are near
    It's The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year

    There'll be parties for hosting
    Marshmallows for toasting
    And caroling out in the snow
    There'll be scary ghost stories
    And tales of the glories of
    Christmases long, long ago

    It's The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year
    There'll be much mistltoeing
    And hearts will be glowing
    When love ones are near
    It's The Most Wonderful Time
    It's The Most Wonderful Time
    It's The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year

    Goodnight, everyone!

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  112. I don't know that I could handle xmas twice a year. that's one i prepare for all year,but you sure made it look like fun.

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  113. We actually had a Christmas in July party a long time ago. In fact it was at my sister's house. What a great time we had. My sister went all out with decorating the yard. I think we all brough joke gifts, nothing serious. The kids had a ball too.

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  114. Sharon wakes up, one last Christmas present clutched close to her heart. It's a...hey who tied me to the tree? Help! Someone get this scratchy tinsel off me!

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  115. Thank you, Oliver. Now, how about that lovely French toast and bacon I smell. And is that coffee? Roseanne, wake up...let's beat Lyn and Mary to the kitchen and not leave any food for them. After all, they were busy little elves last night tying me to the tree. What's that? You helped. Sharon finds one rock hard chocolate in her pocket and hurls it at Roseanne. Just another Roast and Toast, m'dear.
    Thank you for being such a fun guest, Roseanne! Best of luck with your book and your characters. We had a wonderful time at the Christmas in July celebration. All the best,
    Sharon

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  116. Lyn crawls out from behind the Christmas tree.

    Gosh, did I really go to sleep there? Must've been tireder than I thought. Hmm I vaguely remember someone singing 'The most wonderful time of the year'. What a lovely lullaby. It's one of my favourite Christmas songs too. Thank you Roseanne.

    She glances around at the aftermath-of-Christmas-chaos and waves at Larion. Hi Larion, thanks for joining in the party.

    What's that sound - oh it's Sharon *Giggle* who tied you to the tree with tinsel? *Grin* Shall I just leave her there folks? No? Oh well sit still then, let me try to get these knots undone. Oliver - I think you'd better give me a hand here to undo these knots, before you finish making breakfast for everyone - your boss is looking a bit frosty - and I'm not talking about the weather!

    Roseanne - you've been a fantastic guest, thank you for being such fun and for singing us all thos carols, they really made the Christmas atmosphere!

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  117. I had a blast. Sharon, I only did what I was told. Honest I didn't ant to tie you up. Oliver made me do it. Thanks again for having me and I will come back again, honest. I look forward to it. Now to think what my next celebration will be. I loved the Christmas in July. Next time I have to come up with something equally as good.

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  118. Mary wakes up outside under a fir tree. How did I get here and who put me in this strait jacket? I mean did they try to take me to the loony bin or what?
    Sharon was it you? And you laughed Lyn? You too Rosanne. That calls for a snow fight! Hey wait where is the snow. It's July again...
    Darn this was one party I enjoyed, I love to get presents!
    And thanks for playing along and making this so much fun Rosanne! I hope the promo sells your books like crazy. You have been so much fun and we won't soon forget this roast, will we sisters?
    What fun!!! Big group hug, with lots of good will thrown in there.

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  119. I had absolutely, positively NOTHING to do with that. I didn't even know about it, Mary. I must have gone home by that time. You guys are too much. Of course it could have been the ghosts. You know how silly they get sometimes.
    Yep, snow is gone, temps are rising and it's back to July. But Christmas will be here before you know it. I'm going to be in contact to sign up for another roast in March, I hope, for my book Double the Trouble. I hope I come up with something as much fun as this was. It's going to be hard to top. Love you guys and again, thanks for having me.

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  120. A big group hug it is, Mary. Now I wonder who could have put you in that strait jacket - you didn't overdo it with the Duke did you? *Grin*

    Whew, we'll have to make this Christmas in July a regular thing I think, I just loved it One thing's for sure Roseanne, whatever idea you come up with for your next Roasting, we'll do our best to rise to the occasion!

    Like Mary said, we hope you sell loads of books!

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  121. Hmmmm,I have a book coming out in July next year. I just might see about another Christmas in July. By the way, thanks for leaving me with Oliver. We had a great time eating the leftover ice cream cake and finishing off the martinis. He's such a gem.

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  122. the winner of my ebook, Time to Live Again is lionmother. Please contact me, rodow62@yahoo.com with your email address so I can send you a copy.

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  123. Congratulations lionmother! And thanks again Roseanne, we've had so much fun with you, and we will look forward to having you as our guest again next year.

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  124. Hi Roseanne,
    Sorry I missed the roast on yesterday, but wanted to stop by and show some love for a fellow RRP author. Continued success with your latest release and congratulations on your pending addition to your family.

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  125. Thanks, Vanessa, sorry you missed it. But thanks for stopping by and commmenting anyway.

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  126. hi Vanessa. Thanks for stoppingby. I'm afraid Oliver's gone back to Sharon (she lets him moonlight here on Fridays) but there's still plenty of food in the fridge. (Someone finished up all the icrcream cake though! LOL)

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  127. Hey, Lyn, look in the fridge again, I took the leftover chicken and pork and Oliver took the roast beef. Uh, guilty - Oliver and I finished up the ice cream cake. Family loved the leftovers. We had them over for dinner. Yeah, there was enough to feed all 25 of us.

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  128. LOL! Glad you were able to make use of the leftovers, Roseanne, Oliver always makes more than enough for all the guests and plenty to go around for any latecomers.

    Yes, the only thing left of the icecream cake was the empty plate and a pile of little golden bells! :)

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  129. I will say it was the most delicious meal I've had in a long time. Absolutely wonderful. And that ice cream cake, besides looking beautiful, was to die for. So rich and creamy - and chocolaty. YUM! Oliver was such GOOD company after everyone left. We really enjoyed ourselves. I can't wait to come back!

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  130. So glad you enjoyed it, Roseanne, that's what it's all about having fun and letting people know about your books.

    We're looking forward to throwing another party for you next year.

    Don't forget to pop back on Friday when we'll be roasting another guest author - everyone's welcome.

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AUTHOR ROAST AND TOAST

AUTHOR ROAST AND TOAST
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WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE OUR GUEST? DO YOU WANT TO PROMOTE YOUR NEW RELEASE OR EVEN AN OLDER ONE?IF YOU FANCY BEING GUEST OF HONOUR AT ONE OF OUR PARTIES JUST EMAIL US AT THE ADDRESS in 'OLIVER'S RULES'!(PLEASE NOTE THIS IS A 'G' RATED BLOG SO NOTHING HIGHER THAN THIS RATING, PLEASE.)