(because it's coming out, one way or another)
This has been an interesting week. At work, I got my interview for the permanent-employee version of my job. I feel really good about it, and unless they find a better me than me, I think it's going to go in my favor. I love my job, and for multiple reasons I want this, one of which is health insurance for my family.
We spent the latter half of the day today watching our girls in their school variety show, and shopping for necessities. We barely have the means to do that anymore, since we are in the thirteenth month of my husband's unemployment. But, any time we have a little bit extra, we usually head over to Walmart or Target. This has been a rough year. I've never actually felt so close to poverty before. We've had to tighten our belts before, but I've never had to choose between bills and food until now.
So there are times when I am so stressed and so exhausted that the idea of writing seems like a sweet dream I can vaguely recall. But this week, I have stuck to my guns and have followed my organizational plan. Some of my writing I'm happy with, and some has been crap. (Speaking of which, I am following a new blog at Dissident Writers. I am definitely highlighting this on a Wednesday!) But overall, it's a WIN for the week.
I don't know if I'm going to be able to always keep up, but I am going to try. I have learned to persevere in life, and I will continue as long as I can. I can only imagine that exhaustion will be my biggest obstacle.... if I miss a post, it's because I've passed out on my way to the computer!
We shall see what we shall see.
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Friday, January 29, 2010
Come, Let Us Write Together
Here are the rules:
I provide three random words. You write anything, incorporating those three words. Then post a link to your work (wherever you post your story) in the comments section.
The three words are: nostril, rooster, cannon
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
He pinched the bridge of his nose, squinted, and tried to think through the pain. Was it another sinus infection? It would be the third one this year, and he was tired of the migraines. This condition was starting to interfere with his life. Wasn't that a sign of a serious problem? He could feel a sneeze coming on and uttered a silent prayer. The snoring, the infections, the migraines; how could he get some relief? The tickle started in his nostril. Then he could feel his eyes start to itch and water. He opened his mouth in a half yawn, and sneezed loudly. The rooster was propelled out of his nose like a cannon shot. Almost immediately the headache began to disappear, and he was breathing easier. As a giant, he thought he should try to learn how to deal with this kind of thing, but the truth was, he probably needed to address the snoring. Preventative measures would pay in the long run. It was such a relief to find out it wasn't the bird flu.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Yikes. Thank goodness it's just a writing exercise to get the juices flowing! lol
I provide three random words. You write anything, incorporating those three words. Then post a link to your work (wherever you post your story) in the comments section.
The three words are: nostril, rooster, cannon
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
He pinched the bridge of his nose, squinted, and tried to think through the pain. Was it another sinus infection? It would be the third one this year, and he was tired of the migraines. This condition was starting to interfere with his life. Wasn't that a sign of a serious problem? He could feel a sneeze coming on and uttered a silent prayer. The snoring, the infections, the migraines; how could he get some relief? The tickle started in his nostril. Then he could feel his eyes start to itch and water. He opened his mouth in a half yawn, and sneezed loudly. The rooster was propelled out of his nose like a cannon shot. Almost immediately the headache began to disappear, and he was breathing easier. As a giant, he thought he should try to learn how to deal with this kind of thing, but the truth was, he probably needed to address the snoring. Preventative measures would pay in the long run. It was such a relief to find out it wasn't the bird flu.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Yikes. Thank goodness it's just a writing exercise to get the juices flowing! lol
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Let's Go To The Map
('cause you can never know too much)
Peripeteia [per-uh-pi-tahy-uh] (Greek, Περιπέτεια) is a reversal of circumstances, or turning point. The term is primarily used with reference to works of literature. The English form of peripeteia is peripety. Peripety is a sudden reversal dependent on intellect and logic. In modern Greek περιπέτεια means adventure.
Aristotle defines it as "a change by which the action veers round to its opposite, subject always to our rule of probability or necessity." According to Aristotle, peripeteia, along with discovery, is the most effective when it comes to Drama, particularly in a Tragedy.
There is often no element like Peripetia; it can bring forth or result in terror, mercy, or in comedies it can bring a smile or it can bring forth tears (Rizo). This is the best way to spark and maintain attention throughout the various form and genres of drama.
Peripeteia includes changes of character, but also more external changes. A character who becomes rich and famous from poverty and obscurity has undergone peripeteia, even if his character remains the same.
When a character learns something he had been previously ignorant of, this is normally distinguished from peripeteia as anagnorisis or discovery, a distinction derived from Aristotle's work.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Because I am exhausted, I can't wrap my brain around writing my own example of this; however, here is an excellent example already written :
The earliest use of peripety in a murder mystery was in "The Three Apples", a medieval Arabian Nights tale. After the murderer reveals himself near the middle of the story, he explains his reasons behind the murder in a flashback, which begins with him going on a journey to find three rare apples for his wife, but after returning finds out she cannot eat them due to her lingering illness. Later at work, he sees a slave passing by with one of those apples claiming that he received it from his girlfriend, a married woman with three such apples her husband gave her. He returns home and demands his wife to show him all three apples, but she only shows him two. This convinces him of her infidelity and he murders her as a result. After he disposes of her body, he returns home where his son confesses that he had stolen one of the apples and that a slave, to whom he had told about his father's journey, had fled with it. The murderer thus realizes his guilt and regrets what he has just done
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I love this example because it is like reading the origin of drama. There are so many stories that follow this outline, in one form or another. My story is a beloved adopted child, and reading the original idea is like meeting one of its birth parents.
I hope you learned something interesting today, I know I did!
Peripeteia [per-uh-pi-tahy-uh] (Greek, Περιπέτεια) is a reversal of circumstances, or turning point. The term is primarily used with reference to works of literature. The English form of peripeteia is peripety. Peripety is a sudden reversal dependent on intellect and logic. In modern Greek περιπέτεια means adventure.
Aristotle defines it as "a change by which the action veers round to its opposite, subject always to our rule of probability or necessity." According to Aristotle, peripeteia, along with discovery, is the most effective when it comes to Drama, particularly in a Tragedy.
There is often no element like Peripetia; it can bring forth or result in terror, mercy, or in comedies it can bring a smile or it can bring forth tears (Rizo). This is the best way to spark and maintain attention throughout the various form and genres of drama.
Peripeteia includes changes of character, but also more external changes. A character who becomes rich and famous from poverty and obscurity has undergone peripeteia, even if his character remains the same.
When a character learns something he had been previously ignorant of, this is normally distinguished from peripeteia as anagnorisis or discovery, a distinction derived from Aristotle's work.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Because I am exhausted, I can't wrap my brain around writing my own example of this; however, here is an excellent example already written :
The earliest use of peripety in a murder mystery was in "The Three Apples", a medieval Arabian Nights tale. After the murderer reveals himself near the middle of the story, he explains his reasons behind the murder in a flashback, which begins with him going on a journey to find three rare apples for his wife, but after returning finds out she cannot eat them due to her lingering illness. Later at work, he sees a slave passing by with one of those apples claiming that he received it from his girlfriend, a married woman with three such apples her husband gave her. He returns home and demands his wife to show him all three apples, but she only shows him two. This convinces him of her infidelity and he murders her as a result. After he disposes of her body, he returns home where his son confesses that he had stolen one of the apples and that a slave, to whom he had told about his father's journey, had fled with it. The murderer thus realizes his guilt and regrets what he has just done
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I love this example because it is like reading the origin of drama. There are so many stories that follow this outline, in one form or another. My story is a beloved adopted child, and reading the original idea is like meeting one of its birth parents.
I hope you learned something interesting today, I know I did!
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Sharing The Wealth
(so many resources, so little time)
Today I'd like to highlight the blog of published author, Erica Orloff. Please click the link and enjoy her down to earth posts, laced with excellent 'been there' advice and her uncanny knack of taking every day life and turning it into a lesson in writing.
She also has handy links to resources and other blogs, a few of which you may see here some Wednesday.
Happy reading!
Today I'd like to highlight the blog of published author, Erica Orloff. Please click the link and enjoy her down to earth posts, laced with excellent 'been there' advice and her uncanny knack of taking every day life and turning it into a lesson in writing.
She also has handy links to resources and other blogs, a few of which you may see here some Wednesday.
Happy reading!
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
infinitesimal fiction
(it's just like fiction, only smaller)
I cannot believe it, but I finally wrote something!! The idea of a bite sized story really helped me not be overwhelmed. So much so, that I think I did NOT write Microfiction. It ended up being 619 words! Which, correct me if I'm wrong, is actually Flash Fiction.
Still..... WOW! I wrote! I am posting my story below, so please feel free to comment and/or let me know if this is Flash ('Cause I'm pretty sure it's not micro.)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Waiting
by CE Wood
Kris looked around the room and tried to hide her disgust. She didn’t belong here, with this group of freaks. It was harsh, but brutal honesty was always more appropriate than a sensitive lie. She reached up to touch her temple. A wisp of honey gold had escaped from her bun. She tucked it behind her ear and adjusted her glasses.
“Well,” a low, smoky voice slid past her ear. “Where have you been?”
Kris looked up to see a tall platinum blonde dressed in black leather leering from under enormous fake eyelashes.
“I’m sorry, have we met?” Kris was uncomfortable.
“Oh, no, I would have remembered you. My name is Carlotta. I meant, ‘Where have you been all my life?’”
Kris looked around to see if anyone was paying attention. She couldn’t decide what was more humiliating, that she was being publicly ogled by an Amazonian Marilyn Monroe, or that she was seriously considering turning to the circus for help.
Carlotta followed her gaze. “The boy is Tony. He’s twelve and he likes to play with fire. To his left is Jess.” The young woman was hunched over, her black greasy hair almost concealing her face completely. She clutched her wool sweater closed, quietly weeping. “She never stops. I don’t think her daddy was a nice man.”
An involuntary shiver shot down Kris’ spine. “Across from Jess is Mattie. Steer clear, she is one pissed off chica.” Mattie was glaring at Jess, her face carved into deep grooves of rage.
“Would you just shut up, already? Jesus! How much longer do I have to sit here listening to your pathetic whining? Get over it!” Mattie’s wild, red hair shot out like a halo of flames. Jess seemed to shrink impossibly small, her body wracked with sobs.
There were six other people Carlotta had yet to introduce; wouldn’t one of them say something, anything?
“Stop,” Kris whispered. Mattie’s head whipped around and Kris could feel the full weight of her wrath bearing down.
“What did you say?” The wild look in her eyes made Kris want to run.
Kris calmly gathered herself up, smoothed the front of her suit jacket, and walked to the door. Through the tiny, rectangular window she could see a nurse studying someone’s chart. She lightly rapped on the door, trying to catch the nurse’s attention.
Carlotta sidled up beside her and gently trailed the backs of her fingertips down Kris’ cheek. “Her name is Joanne, but she can’t hear you,” she purred.
Kris could feel the panic tightening in her chest, her breathing turning quick and shallow. She slapped at the door with the flat of her hand. “Excuse me, Nurse Joanne? Can you hear me? I’m ready to go. Can you come open the door?”
Behind her she could hear Mattie raving at someone, Jess’ sobs had turned into a wail of despair, Tony was going from person to person asking for a lighter. So much noise. Everyone was trying to be heard over one another, the sound rising to a fever pitch.
Kris curled her hands into fists and began pounding with all her might. “Nurse!” she screamed, “Nurse, please! I don’t belong in here, I don’t belong with these, these people! Can’t you let me out? I demand to be released from this room!”
Joanne glanced up at the little window. “Ed, I need you to prepare a sedative please,” she called to the nurse’s station. “It seems Ms. Doe is experiencing some anxiety.”
Ed approached with a syringe. “Should we bring her out of the room?”
“No, the doctor needs to conduct a full examination, and until he can determine a prognosis, we have strict orders to keep her in solitary confinement.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I cannot believe it, but I finally wrote something!! The idea of a bite sized story really helped me not be overwhelmed. So much so, that I think I did NOT write Microfiction. It ended up being 619 words! Which, correct me if I'm wrong, is actually Flash Fiction.
Still..... WOW! I wrote! I am posting my story below, so please feel free to comment and/or let me know if this is Flash ('Cause I'm pretty sure it's not micro.)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Waiting
by CE Wood
Kris looked around the room and tried to hide her disgust. She didn’t belong here, with this group of freaks. It was harsh, but brutal honesty was always more appropriate than a sensitive lie. She reached up to touch her temple. A wisp of honey gold had escaped from her bun. She tucked it behind her ear and adjusted her glasses.
“Well,” a low, smoky voice slid past her ear. “Where have you been?”
Kris looked up to see a tall platinum blonde dressed in black leather leering from under enormous fake eyelashes.
“I’m sorry, have we met?” Kris was uncomfortable.
“Oh, no, I would have remembered you. My name is Carlotta. I meant, ‘Where have you been all my life?’”
Kris looked around to see if anyone was paying attention. She couldn’t decide what was more humiliating, that she was being publicly ogled by an Amazonian Marilyn Monroe, or that she was seriously considering turning to the circus for help.
Carlotta followed her gaze. “The boy is Tony. He’s twelve and he likes to play with fire. To his left is Jess.” The young woman was hunched over, her black greasy hair almost concealing her face completely. She clutched her wool sweater closed, quietly weeping. “She never stops. I don’t think her daddy was a nice man.”
An involuntary shiver shot down Kris’ spine. “Across from Jess is Mattie. Steer clear, she is one pissed off chica.” Mattie was glaring at Jess, her face carved into deep grooves of rage.
“Would you just shut up, already? Jesus! How much longer do I have to sit here listening to your pathetic whining? Get over it!” Mattie’s wild, red hair shot out like a halo of flames. Jess seemed to shrink impossibly small, her body wracked with sobs.
There were six other people Carlotta had yet to introduce; wouldn’t one of them say something, anything?
“Stop,” Kris whispered. Mattie’s head whipped around and Kris could feel the full weight of her wrath bearing down.
“What did you say?” The wild look in her eyes made Kris want to run.
Kris calmly gathered herself up, smoothed the front of her suit jacket, and walked to the door. Through the tiny, rectangular window she could see a nurse studying someone’s chart. She lightly rapped on the door, trying to catch the nurse’s attention.
Carlotta sidled up beside her and gently trailed the backs of her fingertips down Kris’ cheek. “Her name is Joanne, but she can’t hear you,” she purred.
Kris could feel the panic tightening in her chest, her breathing turning quick and shallow. She slapped at the door with the flat of her hand. “Excuse me, Nurse Joanne? Can you hear me? I’m ready to go. Can you come open the door?”
Behind her she could hear Mattie raving at someone, Jess’ sobs had turned into a wail of despair, Tony was going from person to person asking for a lighter. So much noise. Everyone was trying to be heard over one another, the sound rising to a fever pitch.
Kris curled her hands into fists and began pounding with all her might. “Nurse!” she screamed, “Nurse, please! I don’t belong in here, I don’t belong with these, these people! Can’t you let me out? I demand to be released from this room!”
Joanne glanced up at the little window. “Ed, I need you to prepare a sedative please,” she called to the nurse’s station. “It seems Ms. Doe is experiencing some anxiety.”
Ed approached with a syringe. “Should we bring her out of the room?”
“No, the doctor needs to conduct a full examination, and until he can determine a prognosis, we have strict orders to keep her in solitary confinement.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Monday, January 25, 2010
In Today's News
The Power of Words -- Plane Crashes Off Lebanon Coast
The tragic story today was the fateful flight of the Ethiopian Airlines Boeing 737 that crashed just after take off, two miles off the coast of Lebanon. The plane carried 90 people; 21 bodies have been recovered, so far no survivors.
Plane crashes are reported with regular frequency, statistics given, articles contain personal information about passengers, to help humanize the story and help the reader feel connected, invested. This particular article, however, contains a subtle element of mystery. Out of the 1,153 words that comprise the article, two small paragraphs leave the reader with a sliver of doubt as to the circumstances surrounding this supposed 'accident'.
'Lebanese President Michel Suleiman said terrorism was not suspected in the crash of Flight 409. "Sabotage is ruled out as of now," he said.'
The statement was tucked in between talk of a country in mourning and an aircraft with a spotless inspection record. It was followed later with the following information:
'The plane was carrying 83 passengers and 7 crew, Lebanese officials said. Aridi, the transportation minister, identified the passengers as 54 Lebanese, 22 Ethiopians, one Iraqi, one Syrian, one Canadian of Lebanese origin, one Russian of Lebanese origin, a French woman and two Britons of Lebanese origin.'
The questions left in the wake of 9-11, even 9 years later, surface with a few well-placed words. 'Terrorism', 'Sabotage', 'Iraqi', 'Syrian'. With no proof to the contrary, even in the face of wicked weather, poor visibility, and high winds, the reader is left with a sense of reasonable doubt.
It is the power of words. A writer who wields them wisely, can affect the world around her.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Sunday Snippet
"But avoid foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing that they generate strife." ~ 2 Timothy 2:23
The good news is we have a guideline for reducing the stress of always being right.... it's called doing the right thing. No need to argue, keep the peace and that's what you'll have!
The good news is we have a guideline for reducing the stress of always being right.... it's called doing the right thing. No need to argue, keep the peace and that's what you'll have!
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Another Goal Met!
Starting tomorrow, this blog is officially organized! Woo hoo! I now have a set of themes that I will be adhering to so I can stick with the writerly theme, and not just randomly spill whatnot on the page. And it will also help me to improve my writing and head in a forward direction.
So here it is:
Sunday
Sunday Snippet (so sayeth the Spirit)
I will share a brief verse, and may or may not comment on it. Sunday is my one day of total communion with God, so while I will still take a moment to write, it won't break my worship.
Monday
In Today's News (inspiration can come from anywhere)
I will share a news item from one of many sources and editorialize it in some fashion.
Tuesday
infinitesimal fiction (it's like fiction, only smaller)
I will post my attempts at microfiction. yeah. actual writing.
Wednesday
Sharing The Wealth (so many resources, so little time)
I will post a link to another author's page, or editor, or agent, or writing resource site, whomever has inspired me to share, and give a brief description of what you're about to read, and why.
Thursday
Let's Go To The Map ('cause you can never know too much)
I will choose some literary term, or genre, or writing style, anything that is researchable and fact driven, as opposed to my limited knowledge or opinion, and explore it. There may be examples, or I may call for comments suggesting the next topic. It's fun to learn new things, and remember old ones.
Friday
Come, Let Us Write Together (collectively inspired by three random items)
I will post three random items. For example, pillow, sand, anvil. I will either write the words, or post three photos of random items, and then write anything that comes to mind using those three items. The call will be for others to write anything as well, and post a link to their musing in the comments section.
Saturday
Random Blarg (because it's coming out, one way or another)
This will be my weekly opportuntity to clean out the ol' brain pockets. I'll basically be journaling on Saturdays, and maybe I'll write about writing, and maybe I won't, depending on what's been churning around up there, waiting to get out. I figure that Saturday may be a great time to read other blogs, but it's also a great time to get your writing done, so if you're busy creating, you won't be missing anything major over here. Except my terribly witty repartee....
So, there we have it. Goal #4 from my New Year's Post is checked. Albeit, two weeks late. Some things really are better late than never, though, and I am throwing myself a party in my mind!!
And also, look how much I wrote!! YAY!
So here it is:
Sunday
Sunday Snippet (so sayeth the Spirit)
I will share a brief verse, and may or may not comment on it. Sunday is my one day of total communion with God, so while I will still take a moment to write, it won't break my worship.
Monday
In Today's News (inspiration can come from anywhere)
I will share a news item from one of many sources and editorialize it in some fashion.
Tuesday
infinitesimal fiction (it's like fiction, only smaller)
I will post my attempts at microfiction. yeah. actual writing.
Wednesday
Sharing The Wealth (so many resources, so little time)
I will post a link to another author's page, or editor, or agent, or writing resource site, whomever has inspired me to share, and give a brief description of what you're about to read, and why.
Thursday
Let's Go To The Map ('cause you can never know too much)
I will choose some literary term, or genre, or writing style, anything that is researchable and fact driven, as opposed to my limited knowledge or opinion, and explore it. There may be examples, or I may call for comments suggesting the next topic. It's fun to learn new things, and remember old ones.
Friday
Come, Let Us Write Together (collectively inspired by three random items)
I will post three random items. For example, pillow, sand, anvil. I will either write the words, or post three photos of random items, and then write anything that comes to mind using those three items. The call will be for others to write anything as well, and post a link to their musing in the comments section.
Saturday
Random Blarg (because it's coming out, one way or another)
This will be my weekly opportuntity to clean out the ol' brain pockets. I'll basically be journaling on Saturdays, and maybe I'll write about writing, and maybe I won't, depending on what's been churning around up there, waiting to get out. I figure that Saturday may be a great time to read other blogs, but it's also a great time to get your writing done, so if you're busy creating, you won't be missing anything major over here. Except my terribly witty repartee....
So, there we have it. Goal #4 from my New Year's Post is checked. Albeit, two weeks late. Some things really are better late than never, though, and I am throwing myself a party in my mind!!
And also, look how much I wrote!! YAY!
Friday, January 22, 2010
Organizing My Thoughts
I am resolved to organize my blog posts by theme, as that would give me some definite direction, and hopefully would keep me from randomly rambling about nothing just because I have a goal to write every day.
So I'm doing some brainstorming right now about different themes:
Microfiction - definitely one day dedicated to that, just gotta pick a good day (and I'm going to try not to blatantly copy someone else's themes, so if I do, it's purely by accident)
Links - I don't do poetry, but I absolutely love to read it and C.R. Ward at Random Thoughts does this great weekly poetry thing where she explores a new style and then writes an example of it... LOVE it! I follow several blogs that regularly grace me with inspiration, and I could do a day dedicated to one or more inspiring links, or I could do a link-a-day kind of thing.
Sunday Snippet - It's hard for me to do anything on Sundays, and frankly I try not to, it's the one day I can dedicate wholly to God, and I don't like to cut in to that. But I can share a quick snippet from the Spirit, and that helps make it part of my worship.
Random blarg - I will have to have a day where I just regurg whatever is trapped up in ye old brainoceros... could be intermitent and disruptive, could be held in check for a scheduled day, I don't know, maybe both.
Education - I fall into the 'some college' category, and while I have limitless potential for intellegence, I can always be more educated. I might pick a day where I explore some new literary topic, do the research and post the results, expanding the collective knowledge or, more likely, just mine. I love learning new things, and it would be cool to remember some old ones too.
Rant like a crazy woman day - oops, no... don't know where that one came from... probly it's just today....
In Today's News - I don't know, just popped into my head, but nothing is on accident, so we may have to have a look-see.
So far, I've got 5-ish out of 7 days. What else can I do? I'm probably going to have to look around at other blogs and glean some ideas without getting too copy-cat-esque. But, hey, there's nothing new under the sun, right?
I think that was very productive brainstorming. I have somewhere to start, and something to toy with. Maybe I can throw together a tentative schedule for tomorrow's post?
We shall see what we shall see.
So I'm doing some brainstorming right now about different themes:
Microfiction - definitely one day dedicated to that, just gotta pick a good day (and I'm going to try not to blatantly copy someone else's themes, so if I do, it's purely by accident)
Links - I don't do poetry, but I absolutely love to read it and C.R. Ward at Random Thoughts does this great weekly poetry thing where she explores a new style and then writes an example of it... LOVE it! I follow several blogs that regularly grace me with inspiration, and I could do a day dedicated to one or more inspiring links, or I could do a link-a-day kind of thing.
Sunday Snippet - It's hard for me to do anything on Sundays, and frankly I try not to, it's the one day I can dedicate wholly to God, and I don't like to cut in to that. But I can share a quick snippet from the Spirit, and that helps make it part of my worship.
Random blarg - I will have to have a day where I just regurg whatever is trapped up in ye old brainoceros... could be intermitent and disruptive, could be held in check for a scheduled day, I don't know, maybe both.
Education - I fall into the 'some college' category, and while I have limitless potential for intellegence, I can always be more educated. I might pick a day where I explore some new literary topic, do the research and post the results, expanding the collective knowledge or, more likely, just mine. I love learning new things, and it would be cool to remember some old ones too.
Rant like a crazy woman day - oops, no... don't know where that one came from... probly it's just today....
In Today's News - I don't know, just popped into my head, but nothing is on accident, so we may have to have a look-see.
So far, I've got 5-ish out of 7 days. What else can I do? I'm probably going to have to look around at other blogs and glean some ideas without getting too copy-cat-esque. But, hey, there's nothing new under the sun, right?
I think that was very productive brainstorming. I have somewhere to start, and something to toy with. Maybe I can throw together a tentative schedule for tomorrow's post?
We shall see what we shall see.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
It's Good To Have Friends
To laugh at your jokes, to share a good cry, to swap dorky husband stories, and to smack you on top of the head when you tell them you logged a whopping 87 words during NaNoWriMo and you might have scriptophobia.
Those are good friends. The kind who don't say, "No, really, those 87 words were very good ones!", but still trust you to Beta read their WIP. Friends who say, "I have a great book for you to borrow that will help you get over yourself and put some actual words on actual paper."
I have really good friends.
Those are good friends. The kind who don't say, "No, really, those 87 words were very good ones!", but still trust you to Beta read their WIP. Friends who say, "I have a great book for you to borrow that will help you get over yourself and put some actual words on actual paper."
I have really good friends.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Microfiction
Wow. So, I just became a huge fan of Microfiction, when I read a piece by Emily Cross. I was inspired to give it a shot. I think it would be a great starting point to get past my phobia. Perhaps I will do one microfiction piece a week, and post it as part of my organizational plan for this blog. I am closer to meeting that goal, and I could use any boost of confidence I can get right now.
I am closer to getting my permanent position at work, I feel extremely confident in that world. But the real world contains a great deal of stress, and if I could just get my creative life flowing, I know the stress would dissipate.
I'm reading some very inspiring stuff in the writer blogs I follow. I know, somehow, I am going to get these stories on the paper.
We will start with Microfiction.... I know I can do that, for pete's sake, I just wrote 175 words in this blog post alone! Well done!
I am closer to getting my permanent position at work, I feel extremely confident in that world. But the real world contains a great deal of stress, and if I could just get my creative life flowing, I know the stress would dissipate.
I'm reading some very inspiring stuff in the writer blogs I follow. I know, somehow, I am going to get these stories on the paper.
We will start with Microfiction.... I know I can do that, for pete's sake, I just wrote 175 words in this blog post alone! Well done!
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Ooooooohhhhhh.... An Idea!!
So, I had another story idea. This one is for a fantasy story, and I might actually write it down! No, really, I might.... unlike the science fiction story idea that I haven't written down because I can't reconcile it in my mind.
This is my problem. I can't get the words on paper. I get an idea, and mull it around, it starts to take shape, and then there's always some kind of roadblock that causes me to abandon the idea before I even write it down. I start to open my word program, and I open spider solitaire instead.
It's getting serious. I'm feeling extremely oppressed, and I stopped even looking at my Artist's Way books after the first morning of pages. I don't know what to do. It's like I'm afraid to write.
So not only am I stressed, but I feel stupid. Afraid to write? What kind of weird, irrational phobia is that? Obviously, I'm writing my blog, is there a separate phobia for fiction?
Some research needs to be done here, because I really feel like there's a great story inside my head just waiting to get out.
This is my problem. I can't get the words on paper. I get an idea, and mull it around, it starts to take shape, and then there's always some kind of roadblock that causes me to abandon the idea before I even write it down. I start to open my word program, and I open spider solitaire instead.
It's getting serious. I'm feeling extremely oppressed, and I stopped even looking at my Artist's Way books after the first morning of pages. I don't know what to do. It's like I'm afraid to write.
So not only am I stressed, but I feel stupid. Afraid to write? What kind of weird, irrational phobia is that? Obviously, I'm writing my blog, is there a separate phobia for fiction?
Some research needs to be done here, because I really feel like there's a great story inside my head just waiting to get out.
Monday, January 18, 2010
MLKJ Day
The downside is that I now have to work four tens if I want a full paycheck, but the upside is I got the day off.
The downside is I worked for three hours of it trying to meet a hard deadline on a photography project, but the upside is I never have to touch that project again.
The downside is I am starting to loathe shooting weddings, but the upside is I am starting to realize what kind of work I really want to focus on. (No pun intended)
It has been an interesting day. And now it's over, along with my three day weekend. It would be easier for me to list what I didn't do than what I did. Which is my idea of a perfect long weekend!
The downside is I worked for three hours of it trying to meet a hard deadline on a photography project, but the upside is I never have to touch that project again.
The downside is I am starting to loathe shooting weddings, but the upside is I am starting to realize what kind of work I really want to focus on. (No pun intended)
It has been an interesting day. And now it's over, along with my three day weekend. It would be easier for me to list what I didn't do than what I did. Which is my idea of a perfect long weekend!
Saturday, January 16, 2010
What A Moody Day
I'm actually in the throes of inspiration right now, which is hilarious because this morning I was so depressed I didn't want to get out of bed. Which in turn is somewhat hilarious because I'm not a depressive personality. I am normally an upbeat, positive, optimistic, glass-is-half-full kind of gal.
So I guess I will spell out the condensed version of what is going on:
I'm an artist at heart. A writer/photographer. I was enjoying the stay-at-home-mom thing and focusing on the photography business I started with my husband, while he worked full time. The crumbling economy gave way under our feet and he lost his job 12/31/08.
After the third month of unemployment we began to realize how much we took for granted, and how little we were actually prepared for this kind of crisis. I had worked before as an administrative assistant, so we decided I would try to go back to work until something came through for the hubby.
I got a job almost immediately (and miraculously, actually) but that is a story for another time. I have been contracting to a financial institution, and doing so well they want me to be a permanent employee. This is a fabulous opportunity and I really like working there, but let's face it, a full-time day job, four kids, all the activities that come along with family, and all the responsibilities of a wife, mother, and bread-winner..... it's killing my artist.
We are in my husbands 13th month of unemployment, and every month I hope we can make it on my paycheck and his unemployment. Well then, you say, the writing and photography would be a great way to supplement the income, yes? Sure, if the photography business was established enough to be making a profit, and I wasn't so blocked that I can't even write my ideas down, let alone write anything worth selling.
Hence, the laying in bed in the fetal position until three in the afternoon. No worries for the family, my youngest is eight, nobody's immediate needs were being neglected, my husband was up to take care of things today. At one point we were all laying around together watching the episode of Extreme Home Makeover we DVR'd on Sunday. I wasn't being totally anti-social, I'm just exhausted, and worried, and giving myself a break. I'm allowing myself to throw a pity-party every once in a while.
I just can't always say, "Everything is going to be okay." Don't get me wrong, it IS going to be okay. Life WILL go on, and we ARE going to make it. I am just allowing myself to occasionally feel like crap because it's so challenging. Every so often, I have permission to stop being strong, have a breakdown, and feel sorry for myself.
And the reason it's okay? I never feel hopeless. It might be rough, it may feel unending at times, it can be frustrating, and embarrassing, and I can feel helpless.... but there's always HOPE.
Hope is the thing that keeps people going, turns ordinary citizens into extraordinary heroes, and can be the thread we cling to as we dangle over the abyss of despair. As long as I am clinging to that thread, I have a little leeway to bend. Without it, I would end up broken.
Now, believe it or not, that WAS the condensed version!
On to my inspiration. I have been following Merc Rants blog She is doing a serial fiction piece that I love and, since I'm neglecting all of my duties as a homemaker, I decide to look at the other pieces on the site she's posting to, The Silver Blade. I read a piece called She Fills The Sea, in the Science Fiction section, and I am just enthralled. I love the story, I care about the MC, and at the end of the piece, I want there to be more. (Just like Hero's Choice - can't wait to see what happens next!)
I'm telling you, it got my creative juices kicked up a notch.
I feel less hateful, I feel more encouraged, I got an idea and I want to write it down. It's progress.
Maybe not the greatest start to a weekend, but it's already starting to turn around. As I'm dangling from my thread, I can kick at the fingers snaking up from the abyss, and maybe, just maybe, swing to safety.
So I guess I will spell out the condensed version of what is going on:
I'm an artist at heart. A writer/photographer. I was enjoying the stay-at-home-mom thing and focusing on the photography business I started with my husband, while he worked full time. The crumbling economy gave way under our feet and he lost his job 12/31/08.
After the third month of unemployment we began to realize how much we took for granted, and how little we were actually prepared for this kind of crisis. I had worked before as an administrative assistant, so we decided I would try to go back to work until something came through for the hubby.
I got a job almost immediately (and miraculously, actually) but that is a story for another time. I have been contracting to a financial institution, and doing so well they want me to be a permanent employee. This is a fabulous opportunity and I really like working there, but let's face it, a full-time day job, four kids, all the activities that come along with family, and all the responsibilities of a wife, mother, and bread-winner..... it's killing my artist.
We are in my husbands 13th month of unemployment, and every month I hope we can make it on my paycheck and his unemployment. Well then, you say, the writing and photography would be a great way to supplement the income, yes? Sure, if the photography business was established enough to be making a profit, and I wasn't so blocked that I can't even write my ideas down, let alone write anything worth selling.
Hence, the laying in bed in the fetal position until three in the afternoon. No worries for the family, my youngest is eight, nobody's immediate needs were being neglected, my husband was up to take care of things today. At one point we were all laying around together watching the episode of Extreme Home Makeover we DVR'd on Sunday. I wasn't being totally anti-social, I'm just exhausted, and worried, and giving myself a break. I'm allowing myself to throw a pity-party every once in a while.
I just can't always say, "Everything is going to be okay." Don't get me wrong, it IS going to be okay. Life WILL go on, and we ARE going to make it. I am just allowing myself to occasionally feel like crap because it's so challenging. Every so often, I have permission to stop being strong, have a breakdown, and feel sorry for myself.
And the reason it's okay? I never feel hopeless. It might be rough, it may feel unending at times, it can be frustrating, and embarrassing, and I can feel helpless.... but there's always HOPE.
Hope is the thing that keeps people going, turns ordinary citizens into extraordinary heroes, and can be the thread we cling to as we dangle over the abyss of despair. As long as I am clinging to that thread, I have a little leeway to bend. Without it, I would end up broken.
Now, believe it or not, that WAS the condensed version!
On to my inspiration. I have been following Merc Rants blog She is doing a serial fiction piece that I love and, since I'm neglecting all of my duties as a homemaker, I decide to look at the other pieces on the site she's posting to, The Silver Blade. I read a piece called She Fills The Sea, in the Science Fiction section, and I am just enthralled. I love the story, I care about the MC, and at the end of the piece, I want there to be more. (Just like Hero's Choice - can't wait to see what happens next!)
I'm telling you, it got my creative juices kicked up a notch.
I feel less hateful, I feel more encouraged, I got an idea and I want to write it down. It's progress.
Maybe not the greatest start to a weekend, but it's already starting to turn around. As I'm dangling from my thread, I can kick at the fingers snaking up from the abyss, and maybe, just maybe, swing to safety.
Friday, January 15, 2010
Three Day Weekend
I've found that working for a financial institution has definite perks. One of which is we get every holiday on the calendar off... with the exception of, maybe, Bastille Day. So, I get Monday off with all the waste disposal coordinators, postal employees, and educational participants of the chronologically limited variety.
So what exactly am I going to do with three whole days off?
My intial reaction is, "Absolutely nothing!" And I would be lying if I said I wasn't seriously tempted to leave it at that. However, there are things that need to be accomplished, and things that would benefit from some attention.
We shall see what we shall see.
So what exactly am I going to do with three whole days off?
My intial reaction is, "Absolutely nothing!" And I would be lying if I said I wasn't seriously tempted to leave it at that. However, there are things that need to be accomplished, and things that would benefit from some attention.
We shall see what we shall see.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Making It Through
Today my recruiter took me to my favorite Chinese restaurant for lunch, I had a superbly productive day at work, and found out my friend got the promotion she wanted.
It's going to have to do.....
It's going to have to do.....
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
The Day The Stress Level Went Through The Roof
That would be today.
I want to cry, and scream, and throw things, and collapse. I can't do any of those things. Geez, I CAN'T IMAGINE WHY I'M CREATIVELY BLOCKED?!?!?!?!?
The economy has brought our family to it's knees, God is keeping us from being totally destroyed, and I'm the only person in this house who has learned anything from the experience.
OMG. I can't believe what a spiral I'm in.... from Hope to Despair in 12 days.
I can't wait to go to work tomorrow so I can be with sane, rational people who appreciate my hard work and give me money.
I want to cry, and scream, and throw things, and collapse. I can't do any of those things. Geez, I CAN'T IMAGINE WHY I'M CREATIVELY BLOCKED?!?!?!?!?
The economy has brought our family to it's knees, God is keeping us from being totally destroyed, and I'm the only person in this house who has learned anything from the experience.
OMG. I can't believe what a spiral I'm in.... from Hope to Despair in 12 days.
I can't wait to go to work tomorrow so I can be with sane, rational people who appreciate my hard work and give me money.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Rollercoaster
For every two steps forward, there is one step back. The good news is that means we're still making forward progress. But it also means for every two WINs, there's one FAIL.
Earlier today, had a couple wins..... so you can guess what happened this evening.
Plus, two days in a row I have NOT completed my morning pages..... grrrr.
And I am finding the term "starving artist" can be quite literal, even for one with a full time day job.
We'll try again tomorrow. Maybe instead of a rollercoaster, I could ride the train.
Earlier today, had a couple wins..... so you can guess what happened this evening.
Plus, two days in a row I have NOT completed my morning pages..... grrrr.
And I am finding the term "starving artist" can be quite literal, even for one with a full time day job.
We'll try again tomorrow. Maybe instead of a rollercoaster, I could ride the train.
Monday, January 11, 2010
In Today's News
This morning I already had to skip my morning pages.... geez, what a surprise.
Two of my friends got promotions at work (my promotion is in progress as well.)
A coworker had an excellent idea for a children's book.
My husband is picking out new photography equipment.
We had to have a talk with my son regarding his grades.
I watched a movie with my daughters.
And Sarah Palin signed on as a commentator with Fox News.... ummmm. yeah.
Two of my friends got promotions at work (my promotion is in progress as well.)
A coworker had an excellent idea for a children's book.
My husband is picking out new photography equipment.
We had to have a talk with my son regarding his grades.
I watched a movie with my daughters.
And Sarah Palin signed on as a commentator with Fox News.... ummmm. yeah.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
The Mornings Are Changing
Because of The Artist's Way Morning Pages, I now have to get up an hour earlier each morning to write. I'm not saying this is necessarily a bad thing except for a couple of issues.
1. I am so NOT a morning person.
2. Did I forget to mention, I'm NOT a morning person?
Yeah, I hope I survive this.....
1. I am so NOT a morning person.
2. Did I forget to mention, I'm NOT a morning person?
Yeah, I hope I survive this.....
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Recon Mission
Briefly, last night I lay down momentarily, and fell dead asleep. No post due to unconciousness.
Today, however, I have begun a mission. A reconnaissance mission to locate, recover and heal my inner artist.
I have begun my course with The Artist's Way.
Somehow, I am going to get my writing and my photography on track and out there. I am committed.
Or I should be....
Today, however, I have begun a mission. A reconnaissance mission to locate, recover and heal my inner artist.
I have begun my course with The Artist's Way.
Somehow, I am going to get my writing and my photography on track and out there. I am committed.
Or I should be....
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Weirdo Ideas
I got up this morning and several weird things were running around in my brain. The first of which was a song, that went, "Clap your hands everybody, everybody clap your hands!" It took me ten minutes to figure out it was the song that Lambda Lambda Lambda performed at the annual Greek Games during Homecoming, in the movie Revenge of the Nerds.
Nooooooo, that's not weird at all.......
Also, while getting ready for work, a story idea popped into my head, and it won't leave. It insisted on being mulled, and added to, and fleshed out, even during my drive to work. And it could best be described as a horror story.
I don't write horror! Do I?
The story centers around an odd household item..... it won't go away. It jumps up and down and shouts and waves its words around. I think I'm going to have to write it.
Ooooh, though, I got a great and absolutely normal email today entailing the delivery of my oh so fabulous book order from Barnes & Noble on Friday. YAY!!
Now, it's time to get the hubby to let the dog out before bed, because if she gets me up in the middle of the night one more time this week, I'm going to be writing a true crime novel about the demise of a black laborder collie.......
Nooooooo, that's not weird at all.......
Also, while getting ready for work, a story idea popped into my head, and it won't leave. It insisted on being mulled, and added to, and fleshed out, even during my drive to work. And it could best be described as a horror story.
I don't write horror! Do I?
The story centers around an odd household item..... it won't go away. It jumps up and down and shouts and waves its words around. I think I'm going to have to write it.
Ooooh, though, I got a great and absolutely normal email today entailing the delivery of my oh so fabulous book order from Barnes & Noble on Friday. YAY!!
Now, it's time to get the hubby to let the dog out before bed, because if she gets me up in the middle of the night one more time this week, I'm going to be writing a true crime novel about the demise of a black laborder collie.......
Aaaaaccckkkkk! I'm Late!
I was reading some blogs I follow and looked at the clock to discover that I am minutes late for posting on Tuesday!!!
I am going to count this entry as Tuesday's in my heart, and still do one for Wednesday. When I will also have more time to think it through, as opposed to scrambling at the last minute.....
Plenty of time since we very well may be snowed in tomorrow! yay! I love timely and season-appropriate weather. :^)
I am going to count this entry as Tuesday's in my heart, and still do one for Wednesday. When I will also have more time to think it through, as opposed to scrambling at the last minute.....
Plenty of time since we very well may be snowed in tomorrow! yay! I love timely and season-appropriate weather. :^)
Monday, January 4, 2010
Monday Mania
So, by the time Monday night rolls around I am usually a blob of mush. Mentally and physically.
I did, however, come up with two new story ideas today.
Most importantly, I used my Christmas gift (a gorgeous Barnes & Noble gift card from my in-laws) to order The Artist's Way, the AW Workbook, and the AW Morning Pages book!! Yeah, baby!! I can't wait, they should be here by Thursday!
I am still working on some form of organization for my future blog posts, but currently my brain has seized and all I've got is blah, blah, blah.......
I did, however, come up with two new story ideas today.
Most importantly, I used my Christmas gift (a gorgeous Barnes & Noble gift card from my in-laws) to order The Artist's Way, the AW Workbook, and the AW Morning Pages book!! Yeah, baby!! I can't wait, they should be here by Thursday!
I am still working on some form of organization for my future blog posts, but currently my brain has seized and all I've got is blah, blah, blah.......
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Sunday Snippet
I usually try to leave Sunday open and committment free, so on any given Sunday I may just throw out a sentence or two.
Perhaps I will use it as an outlet for my spiritual life. It just popped into my head and is starting to take root...... I'm liking it!
I'm going to rename the Sunday posts going forward, stuff still mulling around in the old brain factory, but starting next Sunday it'll be something new.
It's a perfect day to start with this:
"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope." ~ Jeremiah 29:11 (NKJV)
What an awesome promise to lay claim to in the beginning of the New Year!
Perhaps I will use it as an outlet for my spiritual life. It just popped into my head and is starting to take root...... I'm liking it!
I'm going to rename the Sunday posts going forward, stuff still mulling around in the old brain factory, but starting next Sunday it'll be something new.
It's a perfect day to start with this:
"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope." ~ Jeremiah 29:11 (NKJV)
What an awesome promise to lay claim to in the beginning of the New Year!
Saturday, January 2, 2010
One Step At A Time
Day 2 of the New Beginning.
Yes, I have written in this blog two. days. in. a. row.
{angel chorus sings, "Aaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhh!!"}
I am one day closer to achieving my goals for the year!
"See the good all around you, even if you have to squint...."
Yes, I have written in this blog two. days. in. a. row.
{angel chorus sings, "Aaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhh!!"}
I am one day closer to achieving my goals for the year!
"See the good all around you, even if you have to squint...."
Friday, January 1, 2010
Behold, All Things Have Become New
Welcome to 2010!
While I have never believed in the "New Year Resolution" (my resolve is subject to whim, it seems), I do believe in setting achievable goals. Most recently I have learned how to divide these goals into smaller, bite-sized chunks, lessening the chances for fail even more.
So here it goes.
Goals for January 2010:
1. Write something, anything, every day - in this blog.
2. Create a new story idea, and write down the main idea.
3. Create a character chart for one new main character.
4. Organize ideas for my blog entries to make follow a weekly pattern by 1/8/10.
Okay, there you have it. Four new goals in the new year. At the end of January, I will give a report on how I did, and set new goals for February.
I'm feeling pretty good about my new strategy, let's just hope it isn't as fragile as my resolve.
While I have never believed in the "New Year Resolution" (my resolve is subject to whim, it seems), I do believe in setting achievable goals. Most recently I have learned how to divide these goals into smaller, bite-sized chunks, lessening the chances for fail even more.
So here it goes.
Goals for January 2010:
1. Write something, anything, every day - in this blog.
2. Create a new story idea, and write down the main idea.
3. Create a character chart for one new main character.
4. Organize ideas for my blog entries to make follow a weekly pattern by 1/8/10.
Okay, there you have it. Four new goals in the new year. At the end of January, I will give a report on how I did, and set new goals for February.
I'm feeling pretty good about my new strategy, let's just hope it isn't as fragile as my resolve.
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