Brain Candy Blog – Page 84 – Kelsey Browning

Brain Candy Blog

15 Gifts for Dogs and Dog Lovers
Hey, everybody! Pharaoh here. Mom let me take over her blog to give you some awesome gift ideas for your[...]
30 Gifts for Readers: The Ultimate Etsy List
One of our (many thanks to Heather Machel!) favorite things to do each year is curate a list of fabulous[...]
30 Gifts for Writers: The Ultimate Etsy List
One of our (many thanks to Heather Machel!) favorite things to do each year is curate a list of fabulous[...]
The Perfect Reading Hideaway for Romantic Suspense
This is our final post about finding the perfect reading spots for different genres (at least for now!), so if[...]
Reader Heaven for Cozy Mystery
Wow, y'all! People went ga-ga over my Contemporary Romance Reading spot last week. That makes all the virtual shopping Heather[...]
Kelsey’s Contemporary Romance Reading Spot
Hey, y'all! I am soooo stoked to share today's post with you because Heather "Rock Star" Machel and I have[...]
10 Last Minute Gifts for Readers
Well...this is it! There are just a few shopping days left before Christmas. Are you ready for the big day?[...]
Bad Dog’s Rainbow Bridge
Yesterday was an ugly cry day. It started with a text from my husband that said I'm taking Jacob to the[...]
10 Gifts Your Reader Will Love to Wear
Whoop! We've totally covered 10 Gifts for the Super-Reader and 10 Reader Décor Gifts in posts over the past couple of[...]
10 Reader Décor Gifts
Last week we started a series of posts about gifts for readers - 10 Gift Ideas for the Super Reader - and[...]
10 Gift Ideas for the Super-Reader
I get it - some of you are just recovering from the American Thanksgiving and now it's Christmas/Hanukkah/Kwanzaa time! Gah[...]
If You Like Author Maya Banks, You’ll Like…
I've always been a big fan  of ROMANTIC SUSPENSE (so much so that I've joined up with Adrienne Giordano and Tracey[...]
If You Like Contemporary Romance Author Jane Porter, You’ll Like…
Guess what today is? Yep, another fabulous If You Like post by the sweetheart CHRISTINE GLOVER. I've known Christine for[...]
If You Like Thriller Author Lisa Gardner, You’ll Like…
The ​IF YOU LIKE​ series has been a little quiet over the summer, but now the wonderful NICOLA MARSH has stopped by to[...]
If You Like Paranormal Romance Author Charlaine Harris, You’ll Like…
Hey, y'all!I'm super happy to welcome the very talented Mary Buckham to my blog today to give us pointers on[...]
If You Like Contemporary Romance Author Susan Mallery, You’ll Like…
Hey, y’all!I am just too excited to have my writer pal Tracy March here with us today! Tracy and I have been[...]
If You Like Contemporary Romance & Women’s Fiction Author Robyn Carr, You’ll Like…
Have y'all been missing your dose of IF YOU LIKE? Well, bawl no more because I'm bringing you the fantabulous Jeannie[...]
If You Like Paranormal Romance Author J.R. Ward, You’ll Like…
Who's up for some truly excellent PARANORMAL ROMANCE? My friend LAURIE LONDON is a fabulous paranormal author herself, and she's here[...]
If You Like Contemporary Sports Romance Author Susan Elizabeth Phillips, You’ll Like…
Today on the IF YOU LIKE series, I'm just slap-happy to have a gal here today who lives in Georgia! TRACY[...]
If You Like Romantic Suspense Author Laura Kaye, You’ll Like…
Today, the lurvely KIMBERLY KINCAID is here to chat with us about who we should read if we like Laura[...]
If You Like Like Contemporary Series Romantic Suspense author BJ DANIELS, You’ll Like…
In the mood for another romantic suspense  IF YOU LIKE post? Well. you're in luck because my Texas-gal writer friend ANGI MORGAN is[...]
If You Like Romantic Suspense Author Suzanne Brockmann, You’ll Like…
Whoop! Guess what, y'all? The uber-popular IF YOU LIKE series here on Brain Candy is back! We all know what[...]
Texas Nights Crossword Puzzle!
I love all kinds of puzzles, but crosswords have a special place in my heart because my mom loved them[...]
Designed for Love – Pre-Release Excerpt #1
Wow, y'all. The one week countdown to Designed for Love's release is ON! I can't believe the final book in[...]
Life Overseas – Trojans Where the Wrigleys Should Be
In light of the...ahem...bruise we found on Smarty Boy's neck after a recent school trip, I thought y'all might enjoy[...]
Life Overseas – Soccer & Lung Cancer…
Something occurred to me recently (okay, stop laughing. We should celebrate when I have a coherent thought.) when one of[...]
What’s Your TV Addiction?
I’m always woeful behind on pop culture, especially TV shows. I like to blame it on the fact that we[...]
How Do You Celebrate Your Birthday?
There’s only one bad thing about birthdays…getting older. When I was a kid, I’d look forward to my birthday all[...]
Say Happy Anniversary to Tech Guy!
Today is a special day! It’s the 21st anniversary of the day Tech Guy and I got married! (Why yes,[...]
The Creative Struggle (or How Kelsey is Like a Turnip)
I have a secret to share with you… I’m not an artist. At least, I’ve believed that most of my[...]
Wanderings (aka Author Research)
As a reader, I figured authors traveled all over the place to do exciting and exotic research. What fun! Uh…yeah…what[...]
Cover Reveal! Designed for Love (Texas Nights #4)
It was bittersweet to receive the fourth and final book cover in the Texas Night series. I was ecstatic that[...]
We are Family (Crazy, but Family)
Next week, my sister, my brother, and their kids (ranging in age from 11 to 31) are coming to Georgia![...]
Reader Paradise – On Kelsey’s Own Deck!
Many of us hardcore readers dream of the perfect reading space--a little corner nook, a deep window seat, a treehouse.[...]
4 Back-to-School Supplies I Can’t Live Without
Holy guacamole, y’all, it’s the end of July! Where the heck did the summer go? As a writer, I love[...]
Red Hot Read: Crazy Thing Called Love by Molly O’Keefe
I haven’t done a Red Hot Read post in way, way too long. Probably because I’ve been focused on the If[...]
Problems with Writing Problems in Paradise…
After all the hullabaloo (I love that word) of release week, I figured it was time for me to 'fess[...]
Puppysitting: Introducing CCI Pup Bernie
Guess what this week is (yeah, besides release week for Problems in Paradise 🙂 )?? It’s puppy sitting week for[...]
Release Day! Problems in Paradise
Hey, y’all, guess what day it is? Nope, not Hump Day. It’s release day for Problems in Paradise, the third[...]
If You Like Contemporary Romance Author Kristan Higgins, You’ll Like…
Hey, BCBers! I'm doing a little chair dance (chair, people, NOT pole) today because we have Tracy Brogan, author of[...]
Comparing Myself to Ladies with Big Shoes *Gulp*
I recently had someone ask me who (other authors) I would compare my writing to. Yow, talk about tough. If[...]
Pharaoh’s Heart is Big, but Not Too-Too Sick 🙂
Thanks to everyone who's been so, so supportive over the past week as we found out our CCI (former CCI,[...]
Sacha’s “Good Enough to Be Southern” Granola
I take absolutely NO credit for this deliciousness of a recipe. My friend Sacha Coutu from Ontario (yeah, people, that's[...]
If You Like Romance Author Melissa Foster, You’ll Like…
Today, I'm excited to welcome Stacy Eaton to Brain Candy for another "If You Like" post. Don't know about y'all,[...]
Why I Broke My Promise To You
I just published a post earlier today telling all my fabulous friends that I'd keep you updated on Pharaoh's progress[...]
Hagen Heals the Heart
Today's post brought to you by the letter H. If you follow me or are my friend on Facebook, then[...]
If You Like Contemporary Romance Author Susan Elizabeth Phillips, Then You’ll Like…
I'm super-happy to have Amie Louellen here today to give the SEP-lovers (and who doesn't love Susan Elizabeth Phillips??) some[...]
What Kelsey’s Writing Now…
Yes! I’ve finally finished all edits for Designed for Love, the fourth and final book in the Texas Nights series.[...]
5 Tips for Traveling Light for a Flight
Since I’m winging my way to the Windy City today, I thought it was time for a few travel tips,[...]
Why I’ve been Missing in Action
Why yes, I have been MIA from Brain Candy for about a week and a half. I don’t normally do[...]
Jewelry = Emotion
We've all heard "Diamonds are a girl's best friend." And believe me, I'm not anti-diamond. But I've also found it's not[...]
If You Like Contemporary Romance Author Rachel Gibson, You’ll Like…
Super excited to have the lovely Kate Willoughby here on Brain Candy today. I love all of Rachel Gibson's books[...]
Sitting Kills So Get Off Your Ass
The biggest thing on my mind lately is staying in shape. Since I signed a contract with Carina Press in[...]
7 Ways the South is the South—from Texas to Virginia (because, I’m sorry, but Maryland isn’t the South)
I’ve pondered this question more than a bit since moving to Georgia almost two years ago. I would argue Texas[...]
How Do Authors Choose What to Work on Next?
In early February, I turned in the final book in the Texas Nights series, Designed for Love. Other authors are[...]
Millie’s Mac & Cheese
Hey, y'all. I'm posting today's Tasty Texas recipe 'specially for Sacha Coutu. I'd like to claim this is an old[...]
Kelsey’s Whereabouts & Happenings
This is the time of year when things get a bit busy in my travel schedule, so I wanted to[...]
If You Like Author Jennifer Crusie, You’ll Like…
I'm loving all these If You Like posts, how about y'all? But I have to admit that I like the[...]
If You Like Paranormal Romance Author J.R. Ward, You’ll Like . . .
Imagine my surprise (and happy dance!) when Candis Terry, author of tons o' fun contemporary romances, contacted me on Twitter[...]
What’s Your Texas Name?
Wish I'd had this done before the big Texas Romance Celebration a couple of weeks ago on Facebook! Alas, too[...]
If You Like Author Cassandra Clare, You’ll Like…
Whoop – whoop! Today, we have a new category in our If You Like series–paranormal/urban fantasy. The lovely Amy Manemann[...]
If You Like Romantic Suspense Author Cherry Adair, You’ll Like…
Hey, y'all. I'm tickled to welcome Kimberly Kincaid back to Brain Candy. She wowed us with her If You Like Jill Shalvis[...]
If You Love Contemporary Romance Author Marie Force, You Will Love….
I'm THRILLED to have Bette Hansen here today! Bette is a member of Dangerous Darlings, the street team that is[...]
Why You Can’t Pay It Backward
I used to think the world should be fair, that we should give back to the people we received from.[...]
How to Recharge Your Creative Batteries
I turned in Designed for Love, book #4 of the Texas Nights series, at the end of January with a[...]
Interview with Contemporary Romance Author Ava Miles
We haven't had a contemporary romance author interview in a while so I'm uber-excited to be chatting with Ava Miles,[...]
If You Like Historical Romance Author Elizabeth Hoyt, You’ll Love…
Today, I'm thrilled to have one of my best writer gal pals, Tracey Devlyn, here to tell us about some[...]
If You Like Romance Author Judith McNaught, You’ll Like…
Another great IYL post from the lovely Jeannie Ruesch - read on for her  suggestions!I love a good romance, be[...]
Three Downloadable Shopping Lists to Reduce Stress & Increase Creativity
Whew! Sorry y’all haven’t heard from me in a while. But I’ve been so excited to let folks do the[...]
If You Like Sara Paretsky’s V.I. Warshawski Romantic Suspense Novels, You’ll Like…
Whoop! The new IF YOU LIKE feature is going gangbusters. So far, we've discovered authors similar to Joan Swan, Jill[...]
If You Like Contemporary Romance Author Carly Phillips, You’ll Like…
A quick welcome to the talented, gorgeous and generous Robin Covington! Robin's going to expand our horizons on more contemporary[...]
If You Like Contemporary Romance Author Jill Shalvis, You’ll Like…
Hey, y'all. My friend, contemporary romance author Kimberly Kincaid, is here with another If You Like... feature. Kimberly writes uber-fun[...]
Behind the Scenes Writer’s Life: Where Do You Get Your Ideas?
An author’s most dreaded question. Hell, we don’t know where we get our ideas. From a bottle stashed inside the[...]
If You Like Romantic Suspense Author Joan Swan, You’ll Like…
Hey, y'all! I'm dancing a little jig today because we're kicking off a new feature here on Brain Candy. I've[...]
New at Brain Candy in 2014 – If You Like…
It’s a new year, so we’re gonna try something new. And don’t listen to Tech Guy when he says I’m[...]
Discover Your Lingerie Personality
What does your lingerie (or lack thereof) say about you? Yeah, I don’t really want to talk about the deplorable[...]
Running the Red Light is up for RT’s Best Cover of the Month!
Yes, it's likely that Brain Candy will be all Red Light, all the time for the next couple of posts[...]
Running the Red Light – Where to Find Kelsey
You may already be aware that Running the Red Light, the second book in my Texas Nights series is releasing[...]
Kelsey’s Holiday Reading List
Hope everyone who celebrates Christmas had a fabulous holiday this week. I so enjoyed hanging out with Tech Guy, Smarty[...]
4 Gifts You Should Never Give – 12 Days of Christmas Extravaganza
Okay, I admit to being a little sideways, so the “don’t buy” post in the Christmas Extravaganza is one of[...]
15 Fun Stocking Stuffers – 12 Days of Christmas Extravaganza
Stocking stuffers…you either love 'em or hate 'em. I’m solidly in the love 'em camp. In fact, at our house,[...]
8 Gift Ideas for Teens & Tweens – 12 Days of Christmas Extravaganza
Let’s just tell it like it is: buying for tween and teens is a B!TCH. I have one myself (the[...]
6 Reasonably Priced Gifts for Foodies – 12 Days of Christmas Gifts Extravaganza
Oh, gifts for foodies. Easy because there are so many options. Harder than hell because foodies can be so…well…picky. I’m[...]
8 Amazing Gifts for Writers – 12 Days of Christmas Gifts Extravaganza
Yes, this is another gift day that I could go on and on and on about. So many wonderful things[...]
8 Primo Gifts for Readers – 12 Days of Christmas Gifts Extravaganza
Oh, yippee - the day we’ve all been waiting for! Yep, it’s gifts for readers day! I probably could’ve based[...]
5 Gift Ideas for the Young and Young-at-Heart – 12 Days of Christmas Gifts Extravaganza
Maybe this one doesn’t sound so hard because there are bazillions of toys in the world, right? Well, if you[...]
6 Gift Ideas for Women – 12 Days of Christmas Gifts Extravaganza
Honestly, aren’t women so much easier to buy for than men? I was strolling through Pier 1 last week looking[...]
6 Cool Gifts for the Men in Your Life – 12 Days of Christmas Gifts Extravaganza
Men. As Abby Ruth from In For a Penny says, “You can’t live without ’em, and it’s illegal to shoot[...]
Cover Reveal: Running the Red Light
Well, I'm just a Brain Candy posting fool today. The latest news in Kelsey Browning-land is that I have a[...]
5 Gifts for Teachers, Bosses & Other Acquaintances – 12 Days of Christmas Gifts Extravaganza
Oh, those hard to buy for folks…teachers, bosses, service providers, and other acquaintances. You don’t want to blow your holiday[...]
4 Gifts for Pets & Pet Lovers – 12 Days of Christmas Gifts Extravaganza
Since 1994, the pet industry has grown from a $17 billion a year industry to one topping out at over[...]
5 Gifts for…Yourself! 12 Days of Christmas Gift Extravaganza
Don't you just love the word "extravaganza?" I mean, it's big. It's bold. And for some reason, it makes me[...]
Everyday Romance
When we imagine our significant others showering us with romance, we often think of flowers, champagne, cards, and candlelight. And[...]
Interview with Jamie Farrell, Contemporary Romance Author!
I'm super-stoked to introduce you to a fabulous contemporary romance author today. I met Jamie Farrell way, way back when[...]
A Contemporary Romance Writer at Writers’ Police Academy
Last week, I was fortunate enough to spend three days at an event called Writers’ Police Academy in Greensboro, North[...]
Red Hot Read: Making the First Move by Reese Ryan
Title: Making the First Move Author: Reese Ryan Genre: Contemporary Romance Why Making the First Move is a Red Hot Read: MTFM is another[...]
Reflections on Debut Release Day and Before
Wow. I’d always heard an author’s debut release day is amazing. It’s true, all true. In fact, I’m betting I’ll[...]
Red Hot Read: Knowing the Score by Kat Latham
I’ve been pretty remiss on the Red Hot Reads lately. Strange how trying to get ready for your debut release[...]
5 Reasons Texas is a Great Setting for Romance Novels
I’m counting down the days until my debut contemporary romance, Personal Assets, is finally out in the world (August 26[...]
5 Fun Facts about Personal Assets – Kelsey’s August Debut!
The countdown is on! Twenty days until Personal Assets’ release date. Good news is you can pre-order it now via[...]
Interview with Contemporary Romance Author Reese Ryan
Happy Tuesday, BCBers! I'm head over heels to introduce you to one of my Carina sisters, Reese Ryan, who is[...]
Interview with Contemporary Romance Author Alison Packard
Today, I'm stoked to offer an interview with another fabulous contemporary romance author, Alison Packard. Alison and I (along with[...]
Personal Assets – Cover Reveal!
We interrupt this Monday workday with some exciting news! I received the final cover for my debut contemporary romance, Personal[...]
Red Hot Read: How to Misbehave by Ruthie Knox
Title: How to Misbehave Author: Ruthie Knox Genre: Contemporary Romance Why How to Misbehave is a Red Hot Read: This contemporary romance novella was the first[...]
The Next Big Thing from Kelsey Browning: Personal Assets
I was so stoked to be tagged by my pal Tara Kingston in this sort of author chain-letter-blog-post-thing called The Next[...]
Red Hot Read: Opposing Forces by Adrienne Giordano
Title: Opposing Forces Author: Adrienne Giordano Genre: Romantic Suspense, Contemporary Romance Why Opposing Forces is a Red Hot Read: Giordano[...]
Guest Post from Tech Guy – Migas Recipe!
Hola, BCB readers! We have a treat and a half today because I have finally browbeaten sweet-talked Tech Guy into[...]
Interview with Contemporary Romance Author Kimberly Kincaid
Today, I'm stoked to offer an interview with another fabulous contemporary romance author, Kimberly Kincaid. I was first introduced to[...]
Mother’s Day Treats
I’ll admit I was bummed on Sunday. This was my first Mother’s Day since my mom passed away late last[...]
Interview with Contemporary Romance Author Tracy March
Today, Brain Candy is hosting another fabulous contemporary romance (and romantic suspense/thrillers) writer. Tracy March released her debut book, The[...]
Red Hot Read: How Beauty Met the Beast & How Beauty Saved the Beast by Jax Garren
                  Titles: How Beauty Met the Beast (Book One of Tales of[...]
Interview with Contemporary Romance Author Rebecca J. Clark
Hey, y'all! I'm thrilled to host Rebecca J. Clark, author of several fun and fabulous contemporary romances--sometimes steamy, sometimes sweet,[...]
The Games Families Play (Laff-a-lympics style)
Who here is old enough to remember the Laff-a-lympics? You know, the ones where all the Saturday morning cartoon characters[...]
Interview with Contemporary Romance Author Macy Beckett
Today, I'm doing the Snoopy dance (albeit with less floppy ears) because contemporary romance author Macy Beckett is here on[...]
Texas Photo Inspiration
No reading today, Brain Candy readers! Just a picture from Tech Guy's portfolio of fabulous Texas images. How would you[...]
The Latest from Pharaoh-land
Today's post is brought to you by the letter P. Playful. Puppy. Persistent. Pharaoh. Hey, BCB readers! Pharaoh here. Sorry[...]
Kelsey’s Slap-It-Together Chicken Pot Pie
Yikes, people - it’s March! How’s the weather around y’all’s (yes, it’s a word) part of the world? Down here[...]
Death Delivers a Wake-Up Call
Sometimes you get news that knocks you in the head and sets your priorities straight. Yesterday, a friend from California[...]
Interview with Hope Tarr, Author of Operation Cinderella
Today I want to welcome the super-sweet, generous and talented Hope Tarr. I met Hope face-to-face for the first time[...]
Interview with Author Wendy S. Marcus about Secrets of a Shy Socialite
Brain Candy Readers, welcome to another fabulous interview with contemporary romance writer, Wendy S. Marcus. We're fortunate that Wendy could[...]
How to Store and Convert All Your E-Books
A couple weeks ago, I gave you the 411 on how to add random books and documents to your Kindle[...]
Interview with Author Wendy S. Marcus
I’m super excited to announce a new feature here at Brain Candy: short interviews with some of my—and hopefully your—favorite[...]
Red Hot Read: Operation Cinderella by Hope Tarr
Title: Operation Cinderella (a Suddenly Cinderella Novel) Author: Hope Tarr Genre: Contemporary Romance, Series Romance Why Operation Cinderella is a[...]
How to Read (Almost) All Your Books on Kindle Software
Before I owned an iPad, I read e-books—my hand to God—off an iPod Touch. I had to go primarily to[...]
Interview with Author Liz Talley
I’m super excited to announce a new feature here at Brain Candy: short interviews with some of my—and hopefully your—favorite[...]
The Scoop on Elephant Poop Coffee
Tech Guy came across this article on USA Today, and I decided it’s just the kind of thing Brain Candy[...]
Grandmama’s Mexican Corn Bread (to go with Black-Eyed Peas)
Last year, I gave Brain Candy readers the inside scoop on how to cook yummy black-eyed peas for New Year’s Day.[...]
Special Post: Nan’s Emergency Beer Bread
Kitchen fail? Mine tend to happen when I try a new recipe, especially when I am using friends as Guinea[...]
The Only Real Gifts – Brain Candy’s Twelfth Day of Christmas
Today is Brain Candy’s last Twelve Days of Christmas post. And today, I’d like to encourage you to give the[...]
6 Last Minute Gifts – Brain Candy’s Eleventh Day of Christmas
Okay, you’ve procrastinated, and now it’s three days before Christmas. Are you simply SOL? (BTW - SOL is today’s freebie[...]
Homemade Gifts – Brain Candy’s Tenth Day of Christmas
Maybe you’re short on money, but not on time. If so, you’re in the perfect situation to give homemade gifts.[...]
Gifts You Should Never Give – Brain Candy’s Ninth Day of Christmas
Sometimes gift giving goes wrong. Not just I-missed-the-boat wrong, but I-don’t-even-know-where-the-ocean-is wrong. Kind of like that time my sister’s ex-FIL[...]
The Next Big Thing from Kelsey Browning: Problems in Paradise
I was so stoked to be tagged by my pal Laurie London in this sort of author chain-letter-blog-post-thing called The[...]
Gifts for Readers – Brain Candy’s Eighth Day of Christmas
Ah, gifts for the reader in your life (and no, I don’t mean you). Is anyone more fun to buy[...]
Gifts for Writers – Brain Candy’s Seventh Day of Christmas
Writers can be a tricky lot to buy for unless you’re a writer yourself. The rest of the world—well, they’re[...]
Gifts for Busy Women – Brain Candy’s Sixth Day of Christmas
Let me tell you what the busy woman on your holiday shopping list does not need. She does not need[...]
Gifts for Tween Boys – Brain Candy’s Fifth Day of Christmas
Yes, video games and gift cards are always appropriate, if not very creative, for the nine to twelve year old[...]
Five Great Gifts for Your Girlfriends – Brain Candy’s Fourth Day of Christmas
Most of us have enough candles, stationery and earrings (okay, I take that back, you can never have too much[...]
Four Gifts for Pets or Pet Owners – Brain Candy’s Third Day of Christmas
I confess, I don’t know much about gift buying for cats or birds or ferrets, so I apologize in advance[...]
Gifts for the Man in Your Life – Brain Candy’s Second Day of Christmas
Tech Guy is hand’s down the hardest person on my gift list to buy for. Do you have a similar[...]
Gifts for Everyone on Your List – Kelsey’s Twelve Days of Christmas
Okay, I wrote a letter to Santa earlier this month, asking that the holiday season not begin for another two[...]
Red Hot Read: Relentless Pursuit by Adrienne Giordano
Title: Relentless Pursuit Author: Adrienne Giordano Genre: Romantic Suspense Why Relentless Pursuit is a Red Hot Read: If you’ve yet to read[...]
Acting Up: Three Texas-isms
It’s Texas vocabulary day, so I wanted to offer up these examples of bad behavior before the holidays. That way[...]
Airport Toilet Wardrobe Advice
I just returned from a weekend trip to Texas for my nephew’s wedding (and yes, he was born when I[...]
Red Hot Read: Texas Two Step
Title: Texas Two Step Author: Cynthia D’Alba Genre: Contemporary Romance Why Texas Two Step is a Red Hot Read: I’m[...]
Guest Post from Pharaoh the Puppy
Today’s Brain Candy post is brought to you by the letter P. P is for Puppy, Piddle Puddles, Playful, Pharaoh[...]
How to Survive a 17-Hour Flight
People are usually fascinated when we tell them we lived overseas, and then they quickly give several reasons they could[...]
Red Hot Read: Negotiating Point by Adrienne Giordano
Title: Negotiating Point Author: Adrienne Giordano Genre: Romantic Suspense Why Negotiating Point is a Red Hot Read: If you’ve yet to[...]
Smarty Boy’s Bacon Pesto Pasta Recipe
Smarty Boy is homeschooling this year and so has found himself with extra time on his hands. Lucky for me,[...]
Increase Your Happiness by Doing Laundry
Tech Guy and I were in our local home improvement store this weekend wandering through the major appliances. Yes, our[...]
The Body Farm: Planting More Than Potatoes
In August, I attended Killer Nashville, which is an amazingly cool regional writing conference for folks who write mysteries, suspense[...]
Why You Need an Online To-Do List
We all have to-do lists. Some of us (like Tech Guy) carry them in our heads and some of us[...]
Red Hot Read: Do the Work by Steven Pressfield
Title: Do the Work Author: Steven Pressfield Genre: Self-help, Creativity Why Do the Work is a Red Hot Read: Pressfield, also[...]
Three Terrific Texas Grandmom-isms
I have only one living grandparent, but she’s a doozy. My paternal grandmother turned 95 in April, and when we[...]
Tiny Library, Big Books
One of the first orders of business Smarty Boy and I took care of when we arrived in Georgia in[...]
Why You Should Never Wax Your Legs
Most of us do NOT need an excuse to avoid waxing our legs. Things like: 1. I’m a man or[...]
Lessons Learned in Sri Lanka
Yes, you’ve heard enough about Sri Lanka to last you a lifetime, so I promise this is my last post[...]
Red Hot Read: Sweet Tea and Secrets
Title: Sweet Tea and Secrets Author: Nancy Naigle Genre: Small-town Suspense, Romance Why Sweet Tea and Secrets is a Red Hot[...]
Is Kelsey Living in Bilbo’s House?
Some Brain Candy readers might know that my family had planned to live on either coast for the 2012-13 school[...]
Tech Guy’s Excellent Adventure
Smarty Boy and I are closing in on the end of our cross-country travel (California to Georgia) in the SmartCar.[...]
Red Hot Reads: Lions of Kandahar
  Title: Lions of Kandahar: The Story of a Fight Against All Odds Author: Kevin Mauer and Rusty Bradley Genre:[...]
Notorious Birthdays
If you haven’t realized it yet, Smarty Boy is an only child. As you can imagine, people are sometimes nosy[...]
Wildlife in Sri Lanka is…well…Wild
I promised a few more details on our Sri Lanka experience (whether or not you want those details), so I[...]
Sri Lanka – Did It Live Up to the Pictures?
Big changes have happened in Kelsey Browning-land over the past couple of months. If you were reading Brain Candy in[...]
Bookmobile? Nah…
A couple weeks ago, Smarty Boy and I stopped by a local shopping center to grab some frozen yogurt and[...]
Red Hot Read: Refuse to Choose!
Title: Refuse to Choose! Author: Barbara Sher Genre: Non-fiction, Self-help Why Refuse to Choose! is a Red Hot Read: I stumbled[...]
One Less Brain Candy Reader
Today’s post is hard to write. Brain Candy’s been online about 10 months now, and I have a small core[...]
Red Hot Read: The Accidental Creative
Title: The Accidental Creative: How to Be Brilliant at a Moment’s Notice Author: Todd Henry Genre: Non-fiction, Business, Self-help Why The[...]
Tuesday Giggles
I get a kick out of just about everything on the Mary Phillips website, and it was darn hard figuring[...]
Red Hot Read: Borrowed Stilettos
Title: Borrowed Stilettos  Author: Rebecca J. Clark Genre: Contemporary Romance Why Borrowed Stilettos is a Red Hot Read: In these times[...]
Red Hot Read: My Sister’s Keeper by Jodi Picoult
Title: My Sister’s Keeper Author: Jodi Picoult Genre: Mainstream / Women’s Fiction Why My Sister’s Keeper is a Red Hot Read:[...]
Comfort (aka Hangover) Food
A couple of weekends ago, Tech Guy was a sweetheart and took me on a date overlooking the Pacific Ocean[...]
May the Floss Be With You
Did you realize flossing could significantly increase your life expectancy? Although there’s some debate about this topic on the internet,[...]
Travel Tip: One Necklace, Many Looks
If you’ve been reading Brain Candy for long, you’re more than aware that I try to travel as light as[...]
Red Hot Read: The Gifts of Imperfection
    Title: The Gifts of Imperfection Author: Brené Brown, PhD Genre: Non-fiction, Self-help Why The Gifts of Imperfection is a[...]
The REAL Deal on Kelsey’s SmartCar
Last week, I gave you a few SmartCar facts, but today, I’m sharing the real goods—the FAQs—on driving this tiny[...]
8th Grade Bites (Hopefully Not Really…)
Last weekend, Smarty Boy participated in our local American Cancer Society Relay for Life with his school. And yes, they[...]
Yes, Kelsey Drives a SmartCar
I drive a 2008 Smart ForTwo Passion Cabriolet with a little over 30,000 miles on it. Since I get a[...]
Red Hot Read: Divergent
Title: Divergent Author: Veronica Roth Genre: Young Adult Why Divergent is a Red Hot Read: After reading the Hunger Games series,[...]
The Condom Conversation
Today, I’m sharing with you a short post I wrote when we lived overseas. Smarty Boy was about eight at[...]
Tech Guy’s Photo: Mosque at Sunset
I’ve been remiss on treating you to Tech Guy’s fabulous photography lately, so here’s one to feast your eyes on:[...]
Red Hot Read: A Lady’s Revenge
  Title: A Lady’s Revenge Author: Tracey Devlyn Genre: Historical Romantic Suspense Why A Lady’s Revenge is a Red Hot Read:[...]
Showers and Shifting Gears
One thing I’ve learned since moving to California not quite two years ago is the importance of shifting gears smoothly,[...]
What to Pack in Your Air Travel Carry-On
I’m a list-maker. In fact, I’m such a list-maker that my friends make fun of me. But lists bring me[...]
Red Hot Read: Once a Good Girl
  Title: Once a Good Girl Author: Wendy Marcus Genre: Medical Romance Why Once a Good Girl is a Red Hot[...]
My My My My My Travel Shoes
Today, I’m packing for my trip to Chicago for the Romantic Times conference where I’m going to help out my[...]
Texas-isms: Four-Legged-Friends-Inspired Verbs
Today, we’ll add more to your Texas verb knowledge. It’s no secret we love critters (aka varmints) in the Lone[...]
What Do Butts and Lost Socks Have in Common?
Here on Brain Candy, I normally try to give little tips or solutions. But I’ll be honest, a few things[...]
Red Hot Read: Over the Line by Cindy Gerard
  Title: Over the Line Author: Cindy Gerard Genre: Romantic Suspense Why Over the Line is a Red Hot Read: I’ve[...]
Kelsey’s Primo Potato Salad
In my Monday post on cooking brisket, I promised you a potato salad recipe today, so here goes: Red new[...]
A Tasket, A Tisket, A Yummy Texas Brisket
Since we discussed barbecue a couple of weeks ago, I thought I’d share my weekend brisket indulgence. Since it’s around[...]
Red Hot Read: Ender’s Game
Title: Ender’s Game Author: Orson Scott Card Genre: SciFi, Teen - SciFi Why Ender’s Game is a Red Hot Read: Even[...]
Live Streaming of the Dead
The home we rent here in California is owned by a couple who is a little older—probably ten to twenty[...]
Keep Calm and Carryon
Travel season is upon me. I recently flew to Chicago and will return again early next month. After that, I[...]
Red Hot Read: The Hunger Games
Title: The Hunger Games Author: Suzanne Collins Genre: Teen Fiction Why The Hunger Games is a Red Hot Read: Smarty Boy[...]
Smart or Crap? Poopouri Potty Spray
One thing I love about Americans is our sheer ability to come up with insane, off-the-wall products that other Americans[...]
The Definitive Guide to Texas Barbecue Brisket
Since moving to California a year and a half ago, we’ve eaten west coast barbecue a couple of times. Here’s[...]
Red Hot Read: The Luck Factor
Title: The Luck Factor Author: Dr. Richard Wiseman Genre: Non-fiction, Self-help Why The Luck Factor is a Red Hot Read: This[...]
Serial Killers…ah….Cereal Eaters
When I was a kid, my mom ate only one type of cereal: Cheerios. Later, when my spoiled younger sister came[...]
My Masochistic Coffee Maker
Last week, I promised you the scoop on how to make your Keurig (or other one-cup coffee maker) behave. Because[...]
Cool Stuff: Easy Lunch Boxes – Great for Dieters!
Even though I seem to often recommend random items here at Brain Candy, I really don’t shop all that much.[...]
ElectroMagnetaMania
Tech Guy is…well…a tech guy, which means he often fixes the electrical things—from changing lightbulbs to tinkering with appliances—that occasionally[...]
Red Hot Read: Flirting with Forty
  Title: Flirting with Forty Author: Jane Porter Genre: Romance, Women’s Fiction Why Flirting with Forty is a Red Hot Read:[...]
Texas-isms: Sickos
We haven’t revisited the great state of Texas-isms since January. And since spring brings all types of colds, flus and[...]
How Bad Dog Came to Live in Our House
Since today is Love Your Pet Day, this is perfect timing to tell you Bad Dog’s story. When we moved[...]
Red Hot Read: The Element: How Finding Your Passion Changes Everything
  Title: The Element: How Finding Your Passion Changes Everything Author: Sir Ken Robinson Genre: Creativity, Motivation, Non-fiction Why The Element[...]
SmartA$$ Gifts from Anne Taintor
If you haven’t been lucky enough to stumble into a gift shop stocking Anne Taintor merchandise, you’re missing out. There’s[...]
In Your Crockpot Tonight: Carnitas
I’m a fan of the crockpot, but one of the biggest drawbacks is most recipes I have for cooking in[...]
Red Hot Read: The New Global Student
  Title: The New Global Student: Skip the SAT, Save Thousands on Tuition, and Get a Truly International Education Author: Maya[...]
Your Guide to Greasy Taters
Today is the day you’ve all been waiting for…Greasy Tater Day. First, a shout-out to my mom because without her,[...]
Nothing Says I Love You like…Office Supplies
In addition to my predilection for bags, I also have an unnatural attachment to office supplies. I have strange desires[...]
Red Hot Read: Vegas Two-Step by Liz Talley
Title: Vegas Two-Step Author: Liz Talley Genre: Contemporary Romance Why Vegas Two-Step is a Red Hot Read: If you enjoy contemporary[...]
Lie Back and Think of Summer
I haven’t posted any of Tech Guy’s great photos in a while, so I thought I’d share one that will[...]
Microwave Popcorn for a Few Cents a Bag
I may be the only person who wasn’t aware of this little tidbit… I read recently that you can buy[...]
Red Hot Read: We’re Just Like You, Only Prettier
Title: We're Just Like You, Only Prettier: Confessions of a Tarnished Southern Belle Author: Celia Rivenbark Genre: Humor, Essays Why We're[...]
Dubious Gift for the Man in Your Life
Last week, I was listening to the main country radio station in LA (yes, apparently they have hicks out here[...]
Kelsey’s Perfect Bag Winner: Lug Life Mambo Sun Tote
You may be relieved to know this is my last bag post (for a while, at least). After much poking,[...]
Red Hot Read: Switch
  Title: Switch: How to Change Things When Change is Hard Authors: Chip Heath and Dan Heath Genre: Business, Organizational Behavior,[...]
Perfect Bag Contender Number Two Out of the Race
If you missed my posts on the perfect bag criteria, the perfect bag contenders and the first bag eliminated from[...]
Bag Number One Eliminated from Perfect Bag Contest
Bag number one, the LL Bean Messenger, was not crowned the winner of Kelsey’s bag search. What I liked about[...]
Red Hot Read: Undeniably Yours
Title: Undeniably Yours Author: Shannon Stacey Genre: Contemporary Romance Why Undeniably Yours is a Red Hot Read: I’ve always been a[...]
Texas-isms: Y’all Got Problems
I know you’ve probably missed your Texas vocabulary lessons. So today, I want to share some ways you might express[...]
Perfect Bag Contenders
Last week, I promised you a glimpse at the three bags I ordered online in search of the holy grail:[...]
Red Hot Read: The Artist’s Way
Title: The Artist’s Way Author: Julia Cameron Genre: Non-fiction, Self-help, Creativity Why The Artist’s Way is a Red Hot Read: Two[...]
Obsessions & Addictions
Some women are addicted to shoes. Not me. I’m a bag slut. Drop me off in a luggage store or,[...]
Slap-Your-Grandma Black-eyed Peas
Although I’m as much a fan of will.i.am, apl.de.ap, Taboo and Fergie as anyone else, today I’m more interested in[...]
Happy Howlidays!
I hope everyone is enjoying the holiday rather than reading blogs. But if you're playing with your new iPad or[...]
Holiday Countdown: Porn for Women
If you haven’t seen this fun little book, it’s worth flipping through.   Chronicle Books also has Porn for New[...]
Two Men I’m in Love With (With Which I’m in Love?)
Lots of romance authors’ blogs feature man candy, either occasionally or every week. And believe me, I’m not against candy[...]
Getting Your Hand Caught Down Santa’s Pants
It’s official. In this country, we will offer any item to score a Christmas sale. Could be tacky. Unneeded. Even[...]
Holiday Countdown: Ugg Slippers on the Cheap
Yes, since moving to California, I’ve gone over to the dark side. Embraced the Ugg craze. To my inexperienced eye,[...]
Big Fears
Certain things scare me. A nuclear holocaust. The power of the Federal Reserve Board. Rick Perry. But a couple of[...]
The (In)Famous Beanie Wienie Cheese
The holidays can be a stressful time with all the cooking and entertaining. But if you’re looking for a quick,[...]
Holiday Countdown: Bacon Cures All
If you’re still in the market for stocking stuffers, this box of bandages from Think Geek might just make the[...]
Warm up by the Fire Day
Today is Tech Guy’s birthday. I won’t spill the beans on how old he is, but I will confess that[...]
Talkin’ Texan: Verbs
I often forget how much I love hearing colorful Texas expressions. But when I visit my childhood home in the[...]
Holiday Countdown: Be Original with These T-shirts
If you’re not familiar with Mental Floss magazine, get thee to a book store and run to the register with[...]
Potti-quette
I’m pretty sure Emily Post never covered bathroom etiquette in her books. But then again, I could be wrong since[...]
Holiday Countdown is On!
I am not a day-after-Thanksgiving shopper unless I’m camped out in my PJs on the couch with my Mac in[...]
Heaven is Personal
Like a lot of Americans, I learned at a early age that heaven was this cool place up in the[...]
Texas Cooking: Gravy at its Best
My daddy (Yes, in Texas, it’s perfectly acceptable to call your father “daddy” at any age.) was an excellent cook,[...]
Red Hot Read: Sweet Potato Queens’ Book of Love
Title: The Sweet Potato Queens’ Book of Love Author: Jill Conner Browne Genre: Funny as Hell, Memoir?? Why The Sweet Potato[...]
Embarrassing Moment: Socks Are Not Absorbant
I have a number of memories that make my face turn red when I think of them. And no, not[...]
Kelsey’s Pull-It-Out-Your-A$$ian Salad
I’ve become a real Trader Joe’s fan since moving to California. For those of you with no TJ’s in your[...]
Red Hot Read: Purple Cow by Seth Godin
Title: Purple Cow: Transform Your Business by Being Remarkable  Author: Seth Godin Genre: Non-fiction, marketing, entrepreneurship Why Purple Cow is a Red[...]
Eyebrows from Hell
It’s true. I was born with a unibrow. That’s what happens when you have hair as dark and brows as[...]
Red Hot Read: The Creative Habit by Twyla Tharp
Title: The Creative Habit: Learn It and Use It for Life Author: Twyla Tharp Genre: Non-fiction, Self-help, Creativity Why The Creative[...]
Texas Threats
Tech Guy’s mom used to tell me that before she had kids, she wished for four boys, two years apart.[...]
No Crap Candy for Halloween, Please!
  Hmm…Brain Candy’s been live almost two months now, and I’ve yet to talk about…well…candy. Today, folks, is the day.[...]
Red Hot Read: A Just Deception by Adrienne Giordano
Title: A Just Deception Author: Adrienne Giordano Genre: Romantic Suspense Why A Just Deception is a Red Hot Read: A heroine trying[...]
Killer Office Supplies: Primo Pencils
Although most office supplies were decidedly inferior in the Middle East, my time outside the United States turned me into[...]
Travel Tip: Be a Packing Pro
As my friends will attest, I pack and unpack way more than most people could stand. Even after living five[...]
Red Hot Read: Bonded by Blood
Title: Bonded by Blood Author: Laurie London Genre: Paranormal Romance Why Bonded by Blood is a Red Hot Read: An entirely new[...]
My Own World
I think this cocktail napkin by Mary Phillips Designs describes the life of a writer perfectly:   *** Today is[...]
Red Hot Read: A Whole New Mind by Daniel H. Pink
  Title: A Whole New Mind Author: Daniel H. Pink Genre: Non-fiction, Management and Leadership Why A Whole New Mind[...]
Killer Office Supplies: Canvas Bins
I’m not a huge shopper, but I do have an addiction to organizational products. Before we moved overseas a few[...]
OMG Abs
Smarty Boy takes yoga at his middle school. Yes, as a Texan, I’m not sure whether to feel enlightened or[...]
Red Hot Read: Raziel by Kristina Douglas
Title: Raziel Author: Kristina Douglas Genre: Paranormal Romance Why Raziel is a Red Hot Read: A dead heroine with a[...]
Jalapeño Jelly, a Fine Texas Food
It’s been a couple weeks since I mentioned southern food, and I’m feeling hungry today. If you need a mid-week[...]
Ten Random Facts about Kelsey
Jennifer Tanner, friend and faculty member at Romance University, was kind enough to tag Brain Candy on her blog last[...]
Red Hot Read: The Male Brain by Louann Brizendine M.D.
  Title: The Male Brain Author: Louann Brizendine M.D. Genre: Non-fiction; Health, Mind and Body Why The Male Brain is[...]
Texas-isms
We Texans have our own language, so here at Brain Candy, I’ll slowly teach y’all how to communicate the Texas[...]
Cheap Way to Wash the Dog
    When we lived overseas, pet supplies were hard to come by and expensive so our vet suggested an[...]
Red Hot Read: Lying Eyes by Amy Atwell
Title: Lying Eyes Author: Amy Atwell Genre: Romantic Suspense Why Lying Eyes is a Red Hot Read: stolen jewels (Alexandrite[...]
Comfort Food
  Food in Texas is as varied as are the state’s cultures. But I grew up in an area where[...]
Pithy
Pithy is one of those words I simply cannot remember the definition of. I’ve seen picture of a Pith helmet.[...]
Red Hot Read: Man Law by Adrienne Giordano
Title: Man Law Author: Adrienne Giordano Genre: Romantic Suspense Why Man Law is a Red Hot Read: A man who[...]
Three Items Every Woman Needs
As women, we think we need a lot of stuff, but a few items are truly essential. Two things I[...]
The World’s Most Perfect Food
If you’re not a Southern Living subscriber, you’ve missed something life-changing in the February 2009 issue. On the cover, they[...]
Put on Your Celebratin’ Shoes
Americans don’t celebrate enough. Whereas many other cultures “work to live,” we tend to “live to work.” Insane? Yup True?[...]
What is Brain Candy?
Welcome to the nuthouse. Rather than create a heavy, ponderous blog, I decided what the world needed was little tidbits,[...]