RETURNING TO HISTORY - Part 5

Good morning, friends.

I'm taking a step away from the Korean War history to bring you a special 4th of July Tribute.

The video below posted to YouTube nine years ago. After learning the process of bringing  Pfc. Chance Russell Phelps home was properly done, the details precise (not a Hollywood make believe), I knew things I needed to look for and include in An Ozarks Homecoming.

The story of Pfc. Phelps' return home is documented in the film, 'Taking Chance' staring Kevin Bacon. The emotional thread runs through the movie like a trip-wire. Strong, powerful, tugging at every conceivable emotion regarding the loss of life but more importantly the sacrifice our men and women are ready to make to insure our freedom. 

You can rent or purchase a copy of the full movie HERE.

All my best

~Angela

RETURNING TO HISTORY - Part 2

 As readers we think (or at least I've heard) that writing a book is easy. For those authors who are pumping out 4-6 books a year I just can't imagine. Do they not do anything but write? No other interests?

I have always had some experience, feeling, something to draw from and to add a dimension to my stories. With An Ozarks Homecoming, I started with a clean slate. The closest I have to experience with this book is 1) my passion for all things Eureka Springs and 2) my desire to in some way, pay my respects to Corporal Donald Matney, the Korean War Veteran who inspired the secondary story line.

For those of you who are authors, you'll understand what I'm about to say next. The Hero, Marc, informed me last night that his last name can NOT be the same as the Veteran, because his mother (the daughter of the late Cpl. Sterling) married. Marc's name would be that of his parents... not his mother's maiden name. (As I repost this I realize I've still not addressed this in the story. Hmm)

My strongest desires for this book are to do justice to Cpl, Matney and his family, to pay honor our Veterans, and to put out the very best book I can.

So tell me, are you are writer? a reader? both?

All my best!

~ Angela

FRIDAY PHOTO - National Military Spouse Day

 Good morning, everyone!

I thought I would make use of the National Days Calendar for our Friday Photo. Use them as prompts or inspiration. 

Today is National Military Spouse Day.

Since one of the main secondary characters in An Ozarks Soldier's Homecoming is Miss Edna May Sterling, I thought this was the perfect post for today.

In the story, Miss Edna has never wanted to accept the fact that her husband was gone. Even with a declaration of death, she never gives up hope that someday her Daniel will come home.  Sadly, a lot of spouses are left with nothing but a flag to hold when times are tough or the nights get cold.

From the National Day Calendar website:

Next time you see a veteran, remember to thank their spouse for service to our country, as well.

All my best

~Angela

FRIDAY PHOTO - k9 Veteran's Day

 

Today we celebrate National K9 Veteran's day. These dogs work hard and put themselves in harm's way for the good and protection of their handlers. I don't believe they are recognized enough.  I thnk that is one of the things I enjoyed so much about June Faver's upcoming book DREAMING OF A COWBOY. I know that one of her previous books featured a retired K9 reunited with a Zach in Cowboy Christmas Homecoming. Zach's wife, Stephanie, comes to the rescue once again in the soon-to-be-released book.

I am also introducing a German Shepherd in Book 2 - An Ozarks Soldier's Homecoming. I'm hoping to donate a percentage to a K9 Veteran organization. 

Do you have a K9 in your stories?  I will be featuring another author in the 7-Brides for 7-Soldiers series who loves dogs and it shows in her writing and marketing, so stay tuned!

Question of the Day -

Are you a dog lover and if so, share your favorite breed both here and on social media in honor of these heroes!

All my best

~Angela