Novels written about small, enclosed groups of people are especially fascinating and make for intriguing series.

Whether you are writing about a college campus, a small town or other close-knit group, creating a cast of compelling characters each with their own unique idiosyncracies can be much fun!

Think Northern Exposure, Sex In The City, or the story of the Navajo Tribe who crafted those fabulous area rugs...

Pens, bookmarks,keychains and mousepads are just a few of the promotional products that businesses use in their marketing and promotional efforts.

One of my favorites are the hand-held cardboard and stick fans which are perfect for the deep south! Imagine have your clients- past and future waving a fan with your logo in front of their faces.

"Let's do a weekend at St. George Island," I said with the ring of rising expectancy in my voice to the pal on the other end of the telephone.

"Maybe you can get another free weekend like you did last year in Destin," he said.

"Yes, but this time we'll need four rooms," I said.

After a short, yet spirited conversation, I decided to once again put free hotel rooms in the hopper of my wish basket to be manifested in the coming months.

Now if I'm going to the beach... YIKES! I need to hit the gym!

Does a lack of sleep wreak havoc on one's waistline?

According to some studies I've read over the years, it does.

While sleep deprivation is certainly not the only culprit, it apparently is one that impacts the body in more than its share of negative ways.

In recent months, I've found it exceedingly more and more difficult to fall asleep when my head hits the pillow.

I don't think this has anything at all to do with bedding, mattresses or even...

bed frames.