Over the weekend we had our first snow storm of the season in the DC metro area. So what better time to curl up with your laptop and enjoy a little romance. You can also put that laptop and your writing skills to use for the chance to win cash or prizes.

Recently Tina Wainscott wrote to tell us about her sixth annual Best First Line contest at www.tinawainscott.com.

From Tina: “Shocking, naughty, suspenseful…make us want more! Cash prizes! The contest runs throughout the month of January. For aspiring authors, it’s a chance to get your name out there and add a “win” to your bio. But this contest is open to everyone, pro or not. Even if you’re not inclined to write a line, do check out the entries—they’re good, hilarious, and some are hilariously bad. In other words, they’re all a lot of fun! Last year’s winner: Of all the ways to be found by your bridegroom, twenty minutes before your wedding, on your knees with another man’s hardware in your hands is not the one I would suggest. — Amanda G. Puckett”

Speaking of contests, we are offering our own in honor of Valentine’s Day. To enter you just need to submit a story featuring your most romantic moment! Visit our site at www.myromancestory.com for all the details.

I hope you’ll check out both contests. Even if you don’t enter you can read the enteries for a laugh or a romantic story or two.