Something new for breakfast!

Get your TASTE-BUDS ready!

Posted by SandySays’ Weblog on August 25, 2018

Posted in: authors, books, Cook Books, Cooking, Family Values, fiction, Fishing, Florida, literary, publishing, reading, Recipes, Uncategorized, writing. Tagged: authors, books, breakfast, Cooking, editors, florida, Fort Myers, humor, Life, Pine Island, publishing, reading, writing. 1 Comment

With the corona virus confining us in our ‘quarters,” it gives us more time to try new things – like recipes. This a great breakfast that uses common ingredients and provides a new taste experience!  This is a post worth repeating!

My beautiful and beneficent wife mentioned that we have fewer guests to fish the peaceful bays and backwaters of Bokeelia. I have to agree. We wondered why. The Misses suggested if I cooked Eggs Bokeelia more often they might turn up. I told her it was worth a try.

What are Eggs Bokeelia? They’re something that gives you a real taste difference at the breakfast table! I’ve given the recipe in my Sandy Says1 blog, but not in this one. They are a little work, but they taste a lot special!

Shall we begin? To make breakfast for two (four eggs), chop 1/8 plus a little cup of sweet onions, 1 large mushroom, and 4 green olives (w/pimento)- fine please.

A picture is worth a lot of words so see above. Keep the toasted muffins warm as you prepare the rest of the dish.

Place two generous tablespoons of your favorite butter sub (Can’t Believe/Country Crock) and put in a microwave for 30 seconds. Beat it with a spoon or with a fork if you’re a fork kind of gal or guy. Place diced onions, mushrooms, and olives in the sauce, stir, and place in the microwave and let ‘r’ rip for another 45 seconds. Keep the mixture warm. See Below.

It’s time to get egging. Preheat your skillet and place two greased egg rings inside. Fry up two at a time – eggs that is. Sunny-side up or over easy, your choice. (I like mine over easy)

While you’re sizzling up the eggs, it’s time to start our construction project. Remember the English Muffins? Place a slice of cheese on each one – like so. See below. I like American, but Swiss, Cheddar, Provolone all work. TYC—-

It’s time to put some meat on our “bones.” Cut a slice of processed ham (like DAK) in two pieces and toss in with your eggs just to warm them. Pick them from the skillet and top the cheese.

Now we’re close. Place the fried eggs on top of the ham. Chef’s note: If you are big on keeping things in order (Alphabetic or otherwise) the cheese may top the ham. It’s not a bigee!

With the eggs riding high, it’s time for the finale – Here comes the Sauce! Here comes the Sauce! Here comes the Sauce!

Walla you have Eggs Bokeelia! Please, Please, don’t crowd in too close. You can thank me anytime taste buds.

Enjoy!

PS – See how complicated you can make a simple thing? Welcome to my web – site that is.

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The Last Hurrah!

DL speaking at Sandmaan Book Company’s new store! Note the built-in AV screen for presentations.

I’m close to completing my appearances for the year 2019. One of my last presentations was at The Sandman Book Company in Punta Gorda (www.sandmanbooks.com). The presentation was on “Florida’s Historical Places & Museums.” We had a good crowd and working with Heidi is always a pleasure.

I also did a book discussion for the “Morning cup and cover,” a book club that requested privacy. My discussion was on “Escaping Skeletons.”

This coming week I’ll be in Ft. Myers Beach for two events. I’ll be speaking about Thomas Edison’s life in Florida, Tuesday at 1:30 PM in the Ft Myers Beach Public Library, at 2755 Estero Blvd.

DL presenting at the Ft Myers Beach Public Library in the past.

That afternoon I’ll be doing a meet & greet at the BookNook at 7205 Estero Blvd. It’s in the Santini Marina Shopping Plaza. Let’s chat! Visit Annette and me from 9:30 until 12:30.   (http://www.facebook.com/annettesbooknook)

At Annette’s Books in Ft Myers Beach.

 

New Friends and a New Book

I met lots of new friends during my historical presentation at the Lakes Region Lee County Library.

One good thing about being absent from writing a blog for a while is that you accumulate lots of material. I visited the Lakes Region Library in Ft Myers Florida and did a presentation on Florida the Loyal 14th colony. Lots of people forget that when the Revolutionary War broke out, there were more than 13 colonies. Florida (actually there were two Floridas – East & West) stayed loyal to the English Crown. That decision proved to be a costly one for it made Florida a step child all the way into the Twentieth Century. This was a knowledgeable audience and I really enjoyed my visit. Below are some photos of the event.

There was a large turnout!

historical exhibit & my book propaganda.

 

 

 

 

 

 

I was staying at a hotel in Laurel, Mississippi, having breakfast, and looking through a copy of my latest novel, Escaping Skeletons. I’d just received it from my publisher when I left town. I was happy to meet two of my favorite people! They saw the book and ask questions because they are BOTH avid readers! I had an engaging conversation with both of them. See below.

This sweet young lady wants to be a writer someday.

A fantastic young reader! He and his family are dedicated to reading and education!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I was in Laurel doing research for an upcoming novel, ‘Summer in the Country, 1965.’ Laurel is a great example of the grace and charm of which the old southern town is capable. Love the town, love its people. If you’re there — don’t miss eating at Pearl’s!

Escaping Skeletons is out! It’s the second in the Chessie Partin archaeology mystery/suspense series. (The Bait Man is number one) The story is built around one of WWII’s least told stories, the tale of Operation Paperclip. If you’re a WWII buff or a conspiracy theorist it is a book you can’t miss. More on it in my next post.

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A full plate!

It isn’t often that you have one of the descendants of a historical figure you’re discussing in one of your presentations. I had two!

Just when you think you have control … control has you! A few days before Christmas I believed, erroneously, I had the next four months hog-tied, caged, and on the truck. January through April are a very busy time for me. Florida’s winter residents make it the time for all types of organizations to hold events. That means it gives me lots of opportunities to meet a lot of you, do my impersonation of a car salesman and sell books, and it makes my historical presentations, book readings, and writing classes a lot more frequent.

Wham! My publisher was ready with one of my books earlier than I anticipated and there were galleys to peruse. Bam! A writer’s club, one which I’m on the board of directors, decided to start work on a great project, but one that gobbles time. Allikizam! PR Lady (my publicist) received a lot of new opportunities for me speak, crowding my schedule. Yes, I still have to finish a book in February! Finally … Double WHAM! The damage caused to my seawall isn’t resolved. Insurance companies believe you pay them so they have money for their executive payrolls. What a mess!

My crumbled seawall

Neither Home owners, Hurricane or Flood Insurance covers this damage! Insurance insures one thing … it insures the insurance companies stay rich!

All this has turned my smoothly oiled machine into rusted junk. At least as far as my time is concerned.

I’ve been speaking a lot at libraries, historical societies, book clubs and civic organizations and have been to a number of book festivals and signings. The most recent one (last Tuesday) was at the Englewood – Charlotte County Library as part of the city’s week-long historical celebration. My topic was about one of Florida’s most important figures from the 1800’s, Jake Summerlin. We had a “full house” of enthusiastic listeners. Two of them were descendants of old Jake himself. Both were embarrassingly complimentary of the talk. That’s quite an honor. Those two gentlemen’s pictures are highlighted at the beginning of this post. Below is a photo of the participants. Charlotte County’s library system and their Cultural Center are among the best we visit in the state. If you’re interested in having me speak to your group, go to my web page at http://www.dlhavlin.com and click on the presentation list on the right side.

SRO at the Englewood – Charlotte Public Library. Thanks Lynda C. for such a well run program!

If you are in the Englewood area tomorrow (2/10), I’ll be at Pioneer Park 10 to 4, meeting, greeting and yakking. The park is located at 301 Dearborn, Englewood, Florida. Come on out, I’d love to meet you!

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Just in case …

Just in case … you live in the Daytona Beach area, I’ll be appearing at The Book Warehouse of Daytona tomorrow. The Book Warehouse is located at 1100 Cornerstone Boulevard, Daytona Beach, FL 32117. I’ll be there from 2 to 4 PM, signing my latest novel, The Bait Man. It’s a suspense/thriller sent just a few miles down the road in Vero Beach. It received a good review from Kirkus, the toughest and most respected reviewer in the publishing business. I’d love to meet you, chat about writing, Florida and Florida’s history, fishing or anything else that’s on your mind.

“The Bait Man” – Here’s the cover for my latest novel.

 

I’ll also be attending an authors meeting at Taylor & Seale my publisher. If you enjoy superior quality reading visit their website at http://www.taylorandseale.com  and check the multitude of offerings from this traditional publisher listed in their online catalog from over a hundred authors.

 

There are no lights in Naples – my contest winning short story.

 

Just in case … you’d like to sample my writing, visit the home page of my website (click the link … DLHavlin … on the left side of this post.) You’ll see the announcement that my short story, There are no lights in Naples, won Novel Writing Festival’s contest and is their featured reading. Click on the link (underlined and in bright yellow), it will take you to Novel Writing Festival’s home page. It’s featured at the very top – simply click on the image and Elizabeth Rose Morriss does a great job of capturing the spirit and essence of the story.

Just in case … you’re experiencing a problem getting some of my back-list books, they’re coming. The “formalities” required to change from my previous publisher to my new one are complete. The books will be back at distributors in a matter of weeks. If you “can’t wait” contact me via my website and I can furnish you names of independent bookstores that have them in stock.

 

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“I’m sorry Virginia … there is no publishing fairy.”

DL at Daytona State College

“Is it really that hard to get published, traditionally?” one student asked. I answered, “You ever heard the newspaper reporter’s answer to a girl named Virginia when she asked if their was a Santa Claus?” She smiled and said, “Yes.” I told her, “Then my answer to you is, sorry Virginia, there is no publishing fairy. That’s not to discourage you … it’s to impress on you the huge effort you’ll need, rejection you’ll face, and perseverance you’ll require to reach your goal.”

I thoroughly enjoyed my experience at Dayton State College where I participated in the program titled “Bloom where you were planted.” This mini seminar was the inspired concept of Dr. Lynn Hawkins, PhD. and Director Mary Custureri of publisher Taylor and Seale. They’re speaking of making this an annual event; I certainly hope they do.

The cross-section of students who attended from DSC and Bethune-Cookman encouraged me. They weren’t the kooks and and rabble so often shown on television these days. IF they are representative of their generation, we don’t have to be nearly as concerned for our country’s future as many would have you believe. They were attentive and asked great questions.

My experience was enhanced by sharing a break-out discussion table with Veronica Helen Hart, a truly talented author, who knows the secret of an engaging novel is in its story. I strongly recommend you try one of her books. You’ll be captivated by her stories and writing quality. Amazon is probably the quickest and easiest way to obtain one. Look her up by author name.

As I stated, it was a joy to engage in discussion with these students. A couple of things struck me as we shared conversation. This generation IS concerned with the future, most are willing to work to achieve their goals, and light bulbs go on as you speak to them … they comprehend. Most of these students are great candidates to join organizations like the Florida Writers Association and to attend writers conferences like the Unicorn Writer’s Conference both of which I recommended.

Lynn and Mary, thanks again for “inventing” this great event.

 

Part of the audience at “Bloom where you are planted”

“They’re listening”

DL and marvelous author Veronica H. Hart drew double rows around their discussion table.

 

PS – Hooray folks — The book I recommended to you is now on Amazon! Maledicus: The Investigative Paranormal Society Book I, is available!

 

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Hookers … do strange (and great) things

 

Filleting 400 pounds of fish for the “Hookers.”

 

I’m working for my Hooker friends today. You might say, “Surely you jest.” I’d have to answer, “Not at all.” Then you might say, “Oh, its a fishing club!” I’d say, “No, it’s a bunch of women.” Silence – then you might inquire, “Real Hookers?” I’d be your echo, “Yep, real Hookers.” Another few seconds of silence, then you’d ask, “What’s your wife think of that?” I’d answer, “She is one.”

Yes, I’m married to a Hooker; a Matlacha Hooker. And, I’m proud of it. The women who comprise the Matlacha Hooker’s are one of the most effective civic organizations I’ve ever seen or even heard about. They raise money and SPEND THAT MONEY on the projects they sponsor. Independent and flexible, these gals get things done! Funds don’t get frittered away in corporate style home offices. These ladies, the Hookers of Matlacha, Florida are the embodiment of the American spirit of community and charity.

The project pictured above is to raise money for the Pine Island Elementary School. The funds are given directly to the school to buy everything from classroom supplies to expensive items the school could not afford. The event is a combination fishing tournament (You can participate if you wish – flyer below) and derby. There’s music, auctions, the famous fish fry (That’s what I sliced and diced for), and much more.

The derby is unique. Young people can participate in this “junior” tournament! Go to http://www.matlachahookers.org for more information and rules etc. This is truly a fun event.

You have to admire the Hookers. They have their sleeves rolled up, not their hands out.

 

 

If you’d like to say Hi, I’ll be cleaning fish for the tournament participants and children’s derby on Sunday

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Pictures ……………..

This post is going to be a pic post. I’ve been scrambling to keep up with my writing work load and my blog entries are suffering. Hope these will give you some idea of what I’ve been doing.

My visit to Annette’s Book Nook.

DL in a discussion with folks after his February presentation at the Ft Myers Beach Public Library

Authors David Abraham, Monika Tandon, and DL at the Florida Gulf Coast University history writers program.

At the Port Charlotte Family Book Fair.

At King’s Gate Artists and Authors

“Florida’s contribution to WWII & WWII’s contribution to Florida” DL’s March presentation at the Ft Myers Beach Public Library

DL with Dan, his biggest fan – Dan has every book DL has written and that’s been published. At the Port Charlotte Cultural Center.

More to come ……. later.

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A GREAT DAY at the library —-

DL presents the history surrounding Blue Water, Red Blood at Ft Myers Beach Public Library

Wow! What a GREAT PLACE. I did a guest speaker appearance at the Ft. Myers Beach Public Library yesterday and it was a wonderful experience. The facility was excellent, the crowd enthusiastic, the organization flawless and the library people superb. Kathy DelBalzo is the event coordinator (hope I got her title correct) and is one of those individuals who takes personal responsibility for what she does and does things very well.

When you see any superior organization you can bet that it has a superior person managing it. Dr Leroy Hommerding, the library’s director is such a person. You don’t have to spend much time with him to realize you’re in the presence of a rarity – a totally competent person. The staff, the facility … everything about this library says top flight. The man oozes excellence, experience, and dedication.

I believe that libraries are extremely important. As you know, it is my firm belief that “Readers are thinkers!” Libraries are temples for these folks. Reading separates content from delivery. So much poor, or out-right false, information is “sold” on the basis of charisma it is disturbing. It effects our lives. That’s what makes finding an outstanding library a great thing. If you’re involved with the administration of a library, a visit to the Ft Myers Beach Library and an audience with Dr. Hommerding maybe one of the best things you ever do.

The same goes for outstanding bookstore. I’ll be at one tomorrow from 12 ’til 2. The Barnes and Noble at Sarasota, FL has a staff that keeps the reader foremost in their minds. The folks go beyond the minimum efforts that many “big box” stores provide. They’re knowledgeable and are customer service oriented. The store is located at 4010 Tamiami Trail. Visit me – I’ll be discussing my award winning literary novel, Bully Route Home. Come see me and let me sign a book for you.

DL signing books and in a discussion with some of his favorite folks – READERS

 

PS-  Check my webpage at http://www.dlhavlin.com for my calendar of appearances.

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Matlacha/Pine Island Authors Days – WOW!

Veronica Helen Hart

Dr. Robert H. Krupp

Suzanne Bar

Gordon England

Vanessa Covington

WOW!  What a pleasure to release the list of writers that will be attending Matlacha/Pine Island Authors Days. Our current list is 70 outstanding established and new authors. The list is packed with award winners, individuals with TV credits, and some who’ve reached the best seller lists. (There are two late adds, not shown, to bump it over 70!)) What a treat for those attending Matlacha Authors Days. Both fiction and non-fiction are robustly represented. Romance and Children’s books lead the way, represented by a dozen authors each. History buffs will be served a buffet of fictional and non-fiction titles (11 total) and memories abound in personal accounts of triumph over life’s obstacles (7). Thrillers, fantasy, health, current events, sifi, poetry, literary, travel, and mystery are all well represented.

Promoted by numerous TV ads, radio, flyers and extensive PR releases, the event is not a traditional “book signing.” All authors will appear in an “auditorium” setting and will have twenty minutes to entertain and interest the attendees. (Admission is a can-good item per family that goes to local food pantries.) Many of a the writers are great speakers. I’ll have several follow-ups to tell you more about event activities like: children’s readings, song writing class, music, discount coupons with local businesses,, etc., etc.

The list that follows represents some of the finest producers of great reads one can find!

First name +	Last name	F/nf	Gen/Cat
Gerald	Petersen	nf	c/e
Diana	Howard	F	chl
Brenda M	Spalding	F	chl
Carole Stevens	Bibisi	F	chl
Dr. Robert H.	Krupp	nf	chl
Jacqueline J	Buyze	nf	chl
Jacqueline Paske	Gill	F	chl
Jan	Britland	F	chl
Kyle L	Miller	nf	chl
Laura	Nonamaker	F	chl
Linda Cardinal	Schneider	F	chl
Lisa	Treblicock	nf	chl
Nancy Tancey	Buscher	F	chl
Sarah Elle	Emm	F	fan
Gino	Spada	nf	hea
Cindy	Bear	nf	his
Clarrissa	Thomasson	nf	his
DL	Havlin	F	his
Don	Busi	nf	his
Dr. Bill H.	Marquardt	nf	his
Elizabeth MacDonald	Perdichizzi	nf	his
Gretchen F	Coyle	nf	his
Richard Alexis	Georgian	nf	his
Rick	Kilby	nf	his
T.M.	Jacobs	nf	his
Veronica Helen	Hart	F	his
Robert	Hart	F	lit
Analiese	Douchay	nf	mem
Don	Landy	nf	mem
Gordon	England	nf	mem
Herb	Baron	nf	mem
Monica R	DePeppe-Pinelli	nf	mem
Nancy	Panoch	nf	mem
Alex	Stokas	F+nf	mem.chl
Kenn	Kincaid	F	mys
T.C.	Diehl	F	mys
Danielle	Swisher	nf	poe
Angelina	Assanti	F	rom
Anna	Schmidt	F	rom
Diane	O’Key	F	rom
Doris	Lemcke	F	rom
Elizabeth	Olancin	F	rom
Guitze	Messina	F	rom
Kerryn	Reid	F	rom
Lynnete	Austin	F	rom
M.A.	Ellis	F	rom
Sonja	Gunter	F	rom
Suzanne	Barr	F	trucri
Tangina	Ann	F	rom
Maria	Hammarblad	F	Sifi
Sharon J	Sapp	F	sifi
Chuck	Waldron	F	thr
James P	Upsavage	F	thr
Julia	Mowery	F	thr
Stephen D	Cork	F	thr
Vanessa	Covington	F	thr
Janis M	Winchester	nf	tra
Lucy	Tobias	nf	tra
Diane Adams	Taylor	F	wom
Kate	Nixon	F	wom
Patty	Campbell	F	wom
Rayne E	Golay	F	wom
Sherri	Coner	F	wom
Virginia	Crane	F	wom