Showing posts with label 2015. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2015. Show all posts

Saturday, November 21, 2015

ReGift with Class

It happens, we all end up receiving a few less than desirable gifts throughout our lives. Maybe it’s that third crock-pot you received as a wedding gift or the fourth toaster for your house warming or maybe it’s the ten millionth holiday coffee mug that found its way to your stocking but most of us all have a few things tucked away in cupboards or closets that we have never used.

With the economy in such a slump and eco-thoughts fully conscious in your mind it is time to rethink the regift.

The key to regifting is to do it with style and class.

First of all don’t regift to the person who originally gave you the gift or at a social function where that original gift giver may be. If the gift is something unique also don’t regift to someone who is in contact with the original gift giver (you wouldn’t want the gifter to see the gift at the new giftee’s home unless you plan on offering full disclosure).

Second, make sure the gift was never used and that it is still in pristine, brand new condition (exceptions are allowed for books, CDs and DVDs that you know someone would really love but they still have to be in good shape). For any appliances or items with multiple parts make sure that all the pieces are there and that the item is still in working condition. You don’t want to give a gift that’s all banged up and missing pieces after being shoved around in your closet, tossed around in the garage or moved from place to place. If it needs batteries put a brand new set in with the gift.

Third, rewrap the gift. Do not ever leave the gift in the same torn wrapping paper that you re-taped or in the same (now) rumpled gift bag it came in . And make sure you put a new tag on it addressing it specifically to the person the gift is for. This cleans it up and makes you put a little thought into it. A gift should always have a bit of a personal touch to it.

Fourth and most importantly, don’t regift just to get rid of something taking up space in your home or so can have a gift to give someone without spending any money. Give the gift to someone who will actually use and/or enjoy the gift. If you know someone needs a toaster or coffee pot then by all means give them the extra appliance that you have in your closet but don’t just give it to someone to get rid of it.

There’s a way to really regift with class- personalize the gift. Make the receiver feel special by letting them know the gift is just for them, that you really thought about it. This could be done by adding little custom things. If it’s a scarf or linens add a bit of custom monogramming. Is it a book? Add a special note in the book for the person who is receiving it. Find some way to add a special touch to the gift so the receiver will feel special.

If you really want to unload some of those unused gifts taking up space, participate in a regifting party, also known as a white elephant exchange. You could even hold it on National Regifting Day which is December 17, 2015 this year. Always the third Thursday in December.

There are many ways to have a regifting party. One is to have everyone bring one or two unwrapped gifts and place them on a table. Everyone takes a number and the first number called gets to pick the first gift and it goes on from there until everyone gets a chance to choose a gift

Here are are more ways to have a Regifting Party :


Leftover gifts and anything that’s really unwanted by anyone at the party can always be donated to Goodwill, The Salvation Army, or a local shelter. Someone could love it.

To learn more about regifting visit http://regiftable.com/  and make sure to check out ReGifting 101 http://regiftable.com/Regifting101/Default.aspx  for a crash course in regiving.



Monday, October 12, 2015

The Instruction Trilogy by L.M. Pruitt




Instruction
L.M. Pruitt

Publisher: SP Press

Publication Date: August 18, 2015

ASIN: B00ZYJU5OI

Genre: Erotica

Book Description:

Taylor Allerton's speakeasy is one of the hottest nightclubs in Manhattan. Young, rich, and beautiful, she can have any man she wants--and usually does.

Namir Adeem just became the youngest partner at one of the most prestigious accounting firms in Manhattan. His determination to bring honor to his family leaves no time for any relationship.

When Taylor discovers just how sheltered Namir is, she takes it upon herself to give him the education he deserves.

Some things can't be taught in school....


Amazon     iTunes    Kobo   BN
Instruction Excerpt:

“I’m sure it’s not the first time you’ve had to dissuade a woman in a bar.”
He barked out a laugh. “Ms. Allerton, I’ve spent more time in libraries and schoolrooms than in drinking establishments. I’ll confess, if you hadn’t intervened, I’m not sure how I would have handled your friend.”
“Look, I’ve already decided to hire you, so you really don’t need to continue plugging your education.”
“I assure you, that’s not my intention at all.” He coughed and scratched the side of his nose again. “I’m simply trying to inform you, as delicately as possible, that I am not used to this sort of… open culture.”
I stared at him, working to process his words. “I’m sorry, I’m not really following what you’re saying.”
“When I say I lack experience in certain areas, I mean I… lack experience.” He leaned his head back and closed his eyes. “You do not achieve the success I have at my age without making some sacrifices along the way.”
“Oh.” As the full impact of his words sank in, my eyes widened involuntarily. “Oh. Oh, God. Now I’m even more sorry about Kennedy and how she acted and what she said and--.”
“You don’t need to apologize, Ms. Allerton. You have been beyond professional in every way.” He opened his eyes, tilting his chin down and studying me with a slight smile. “At least you have while in my presence.”
“Well, thank God we can’t get in trouble simply for having dirty thoughts.” I crossed my legs and laughed. “Although it’s probably only me having those thoughts.”
He sat silent for long minutes before clearing his throat. “You would be wrong, Ms. Allerton.”
I lifted my brows, tilting my head to the side. “Oh?”
“I hope this won’t impact our professional relationship but since you are being honest, so must I.” His gaze shifted to mine and I sucked in a breath. “I find you very attractive, Ms. Allerton.”
“In the spirit of continued honesty… my friend was right.” I picked up my glass, taking along sip of watered down tea. “I want to fuck you.”
“As flattering as I find your statement, I doubt it would be very good for you, all things considered.”
“Do you want me to teach you?” I hadn’t even known the thought was in my head until the words were echoing in the room but it was instantly an obsession. Slowly, I began sliding around the booth toward him. “I will—as much as you’re willing to learn.”
He dropped his gaze to the table, shifting restlessly. “You should check on your friend.”
“You didn’t answer the question.”
“It was a highly inappropriate question, Ms. Allerton.”
“Still not an answer.” I leaned closer, my mouth a half inch from his. “Do you want me to educate you or not?”
His lips parted on a sigh. “Yes. I do.”
“Wonderful.” I leaned back, pretending not to see the disappointment flash across his face. “We’ll start tomorrow.”



Demonstration
Instruction Trilogy
Book Two
L.M. Pruitt          

Genre: Romantica/Erotica

Publisher: SP Press         

Date of Publication: September 7, 2015

Word Count: approx. 40K

Book Description:

Namir Adeem has traded in early mornings, coffee and spreadsheets for late nights, bottle service and VIP lists. His nightclub is poised to become the next hotspot in Manhattan. Still, success means nothing without the one person he's spent six months trying to replace.

Taylor Allerton made her mark on Manhattan nightlife with Whisper. Her next venture has the possibility to catapult her to the coveted pinnacle of the social scene. And yet nothing can fill the hollow spot in her heart left by that one week.

When they meet again, there's no denying the attraction and emotion still sparking between them. But this time around, Namir has a few lesson of his own in mind--and Taylor is eager to learn.

When the student becomes the teacher, anything is possible.

Demonstration Excerpt:

This is insane.” Ferran straightened the plate a quarter of an inch, studied the table for a moment, and then moved the small square saucer back to its original position. “As your brother, I’m obligated to tell you when you’re being less than sane and this would be one of those times.”
“I think it’s romantic.” Ahlam paused in the middle of fluttering from one end of the room to the other to smile and pat my cheek. “You could give your brother a few lessons in that particular department.”
“I’ll have you know I practically ooze romance.” As if to prove his point, Ferran grabbed his wife, spinning her in a circle before lowering her in an exaggerated dip, finishing with a long kiss. Righting her, he said, “How’s that for romance?”
“Your enthusiasm is commendable but your technique could stand to be improved some.” She burst in to a fit of laughter when Ferran dropped his jaw in feigned shock. “However, since I’m a firm believer in practice making perfect, I’m willing to suffer while you improve yourself.”
“You’re so good to me, darling.” Ferran winked at her and grinned before turning to me, his face slipping in to a serious expression. “Seriously. I know you’re going to do whatever you want but I would be a poor excuse of a brother if I didn’t attempt to dissuade you.”
“We’ll consider this your attempt.” I looked pointedly at the clock above the bar and then the door. “Now please, don’t let me keep you from enjoying the rest of your evening.”
“Come along, husband.” Ahlam linked arms with Ferran and began dragging him toward the kitchen. “I think your brother would like a few minutes alone before his date arrives.”
I waited until their quiet conversation faded away before shifting my attention back to the matter at hand—seducing Taylor.
I studied the table with a critical eye, adjusting the votive candles and the spray of flowers. The details Ferran had focused on, while important, had more to do with his training as a restaurateur. I was more concerned with the intimacy of the seating arrangement, the way the candles would cast shadows on her face, the scent of the hothouse roses. I wasn’t looking to recreate our first meal together but to reimagine it.
I wanted her to let her guard down just enough to allow me overwhelm her.
The faint rapping on the glass drew me out of my reverie and I glanced toward the door. Taylor stood on the other side, completely enswathed in a dark fur coat. Her lips curved ever so slightly as she gave a tiny wave.
I smiled back. Excellent.




Implementation
Instruction Trilogy
Book Three
LM Pruitt

Genre: Romantica/Erotica

Publisher: SP Press

Date of Publication: October 7

Word Count: approx. 40K

Book Description:

Taylor Allerton and Namir Adeem have conquered overbearing parents, untrustworthy friends, and now rule the Manhattan club scene like royalty. But their greatest challenge is still ahead.

Marriage.


Excerpt Implementation:

“Well, that went better than I thought it would.” I resisted the urge to hunch my shoulders and shiver, despite the fact I’d been standing in the New York cold for nearly fifteen minutes in a slip dress. “After the initial screaming ended, I mean.”
“I’m honestly surprised there wasn’t more.” Namir rubbed his hands over my shoulders and frowned. “You’re practically frozen. Why didn’t you say anything?”
“Publicity before beauty, darling.” I laughed and leaned in to him, brushing my lips over his. “Besides, I’ll warm up after I have my single glass of whiskey.”
“Whiskey? And only one?” He cupped my cheeks, holding me in place when I would have stepped away. “I thought you would have been drinking champagne in celebration. As a matter of fact, I texted Deidre and had her speak with Geoff about ordering extra bottles.”
“You know me so well.” I laughed again, content to stand there with him for the rest of the night. Or I would have been if not for the fact I had a massive party to host. “I try to limit my alcohol consumption when I’m working. It was a hard and fast rule for a long time and then… well….”
“I know.” He stroked his thumbs over my cheekbones. “It’s okay. It’s in the past.” The kiss this time was longer, gentler, and almost made me consider going home and missing my own party. When he pulled away, I started to suggest just that only to have him lay a single finger on my lips. “I know what you’re thinking and while I’d love to do the same, we do, unfortunately, have obligations.”
“God, it sucks being adults, doesn’t it?” I sighed and stepped away, although I still kept my hand joined with his. For all my bravado, I was nervous. So nervous. Probably more nervous than I’d been in my entire life, including the past twenty-four hours.
Marrying Namir had been easy. Like breathing.
Facing family and friends, frenemies and enemies, and—God forbid—the press? That was going to be difficult.



About the Author:

L.M. Pruitt has been reading and writing for as long as she can remember. A native of Florida with a love of New Orleans, she has the uncanny ability to find humor in most things and would probably kill a plastic plant. She knows this because she's killed bamboo. Twice.  She is the author of the Winged series, the Plaisir Coupable series, Jude Magdalyn series, the Moon Rising series, and Taken: A Frankie Post Novel.