Uh-oh! I've started slacking on the blog post again. Sorry 'bout that. I'm trying to fit in as much writing as possible.
The last few days I tried working on submissions but without ink and stamps I'm limited to e-mail submissions which aren't accepted by everyone. It doesn't help that now we're in summer vacation time for colleges and a lot of the reviews are ran by college literary departments. So they aren't taking submissions right now.
I did start my work on the history of Naugahyde now that I've gotten the go ahead from Jenni. And Jenni's school year will be over soon so hopefully we'll finally get the time to finish Behind the Naugahyde. I can't wait!
So that's what I've been up to. Nothing exciting. Although, I did go to a cold and rainy baseball game Saturday where a clown schooled me in Harry Potter trivia. And I'm trying not to get annoyed by the mass surge of pop-ups I've been having lately despite all the pop-up blockers that are on.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Sunday, May 27, 2007
The search for naugahyde
Crazy cool madness! I just stopped by BehindtheNaugahyde.com to check the guest book,which you need to sign if you already haven't (How do you expect us to impress agents with a demand from the public to publish our book when only 8 people have signed the guest book? Come on now!), and the site meter.
When I checked the site meter it had a quite a few visits so I checked the details and apparently lots of people have found our site while searching for "naugahyde", "nauga", "nauga collections" and "naugahyde shoes". Apparently we are result number 15 in a Google search for "naugahyde" and 24 in a AT&T Yahoo search. We're 47 in the AT&T Yahoo search for "nauga" but we're 35 in a Google search. Here's where it gets super impressive. If you're looking for "nauga shoes" we're number 3 on Google and AT&T Yahoo. If you're looking for "naugahyde shoes" you'll find us in the #2 spot on both searches! Yah baby! We're almost famous!
It's my goal now to not stop until we're number one in at least one of those searches. My proposal to Jenni is going to be that we add a page to BehindtheNaugahyde.com that tells the history of Naugahyde and that we even have a section on saving the naugas.
Why would we put so much effort so that random people could stop by see that our website has relatively little to do with actual naugahyde and then quickly navigate away from our page? Because one day a literary agent or even a book publisher is going to be in need of a fake leather-looking couch and in their search they will happen upon our website. It will be history in the making. Or maybe it will just generate some interest in the book. At the very least it will explain what the heck naugahyde is to all those people out there scratching their heads.
When I checked the site meter it had a quite a few visits so I checked the details and apparently lots of people have found our site while searching for "naugahyde", "nauga", "nauga collections" and "naugahyde shoes". Apparently we are result number 15 in a Google search for "naugahyde" and 24 in a AT&T Yahoo search. We're 47 in the AT&T Yahoo search for "nauga" but we're 35 in a Google search. Here's where it gets super impressive. If you're looking for "nauga shoes" we're number 3 on Google and AT&T Yahoo. If you're looking for "naugahyde shoes" you'll find us in the #2 spot on both searches! Yah baby! We're almost famous!
It's my goal now to not stop until we're number one in at least one of those searches. My proposal to Jenni is going to be that we add a page to BehindtheNaugahyde.com that tells the history of Naugahyde and that we even have a section on saving the naugas.
Why would we put so much effort so that random people could stop by see that our website has relatively little to do with actual naugahyde and then quickly navigate away from our page? Because one day a literary agent or even a book publisher is going to be in need of a fake leather-looking couch and in their search they will happen upon our website. It will be history in the making. Or maybe it will just generate some interest in the book. At the very least it will explain what the heck naugahyde is to all those people out there scratching their heads.
Friday, May 25, 2007
Let the three day weekend begin!
WooHoo! Three day weekend! This is the first time I've actually had a job that involved three day weekends. Now I get it.
Anyway, here's another things I stole from other writer's blogs. It's the Friday Five. This week is the first line from five of my completed works.
1) 12:00, October is over.
2)The minute she picked up the phone she knew they were done.
3) I hate my life.
4)The cold made Casey's fingers completely numb.
5)I had been an angel once.
There they are. My two Nano novels and three short stories, none of which have ever been published. Although, I wouldn't really call them completed stories. These are all more or less still in the editing process so these are actually tentative first lines.
Anyway, here's another things I stole from other writer's blogs. It's the Friday Five. This week is the first line from five of my completed works.
1) 12:00, October is over.
2)The minute she picked up the phone she knew they were done.
3) I hate my life.
4)The cold made Casey's fingers completely numb.
5)I had been an angel once.
There they are. My two Nano novels and three short stories, none of which have ever been published. Although, I wouldn't really call them completed stories. These are all more or less still in the editing process so these are actually tentative first lines.
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Creative Differences
It turns out that my writing partner in crime, Jenni, and I have some creative differences. And I'm not using creative differences as a nice way of saying we can't stand each other. I mean we have different processes for creating stuff.
Obviously, we have such an awesome friendship because we do have many things in common. However, it seems that when it comes to writing we can't agree on anything. Although, writing Behind the Naugahyde actually goes rather smoothly.
And yes I did post this same quiz yesterday but today it's new and improved. However, since I did post my own answers yesterday I put them in a smaller font today. That means that the smaller font on the red words is not because red is an inferior color to green, which is another subject Jenni and I do not agree on.
1. Do you outline?
Jenni: No, not really. I, sometimes, have the gyst of how I kind of want things to go in my head, but I don't write it down. I sometimes outline lessons plans for school but they are such bare bones that I will even forget what I meant by them.
Ash: Yes, most of the time. Occasionally I do just go on a whim and sometimes I write an outline but don't stick to it at all. I mostly do it because my mind works faster than I type and I think if I write down general notes, like an outline, I won't forget anything.
2. Do you write straight through a book, or do you sometimes tackle the scenes out of order?
Jenni: I kind of like to do things out of order and figure it out later.
Ash: I've always written straight through.
3. Do you prefer writing with a pen or using a computer?
Jenni: Computer, all the way. If I have to write by hand, then with a pen but not a smeary one. Pencils are ok if I'm in the right mood (and they can't be smeary either!).
Ash: I prefer writing with a pen but I hate having to type it in again later. Although, it is a good way to reread and edit what I've already written.
4. Do you prefer writing in first person or third?
Jenni: I do mostly third because so much of my writing has been focused on Behind the Naugahyde or my one-act plays, but often the first person stuff (even if the character is not me at all) can be better (see Six Months to the Day).
Ash: Most of the stuff I've written is in third person. I did do something in second person once and it's my only short story to get published in an actual literary magazine.
5. Do you listen to music while you write? If so, do you create a play list, listen randomly, or pick a single song that fits the book?
Jenni: No! I can't concentrate and write in English if it's anything but silent. I can do German, grading, and puzzles with music. If I had to pick a song to fit Behind the Naugahyde though, I would say "Footloose." LOL
Ash: YES! I always listen to music when I'm writing. Sometimes I pick just one song that fits the book. Other times I pick a few CD's that work. I don't really make a play list though. I don't have the technology to do so unless I want to get up every four minutes and put a new song on, which significantly cuts down on writing time.
6. How do you come up with the perfect names for your characters?
Jenni: For my one-act plays, I take the name of the person in real life who inspired me and mix up the letters to form a new name. Mostly this is why all of the characters in my one act plays have dumb names like Reic or Evest (based on students' names).
Ash: Sometimes I think of names that are similar to the people the characters are inspired by. Not necessarily names that sound or are spelled similar but names that have the same characteristics like short, rare, common, simple. If I'm writing at work sometimes I use the names of shoes or shoe companies.
7. When you’re writing, do you ever imagine your book as a television show or movie?
Jenni: I know exactly how the one-act plays will look on stage, and I have already figured out how Behind the Naugahyde can be made into a movie.
Ash: Not necessarily that it would get made into one of them but I picture them in my head as if they were one and then I write what I see.
8. Have you ever had a character insist on doing something you really didn’t want him/her to do?
Jenni: LOL! Ditto Ash's answer.
Ash: If you count being boring, yes. Otherwise I can't really say that has happened to me.
9. Do you know how a book is going to end when you start it?
Jenni: Usually not, I'm finding out. I like the Frederich Duerrenmatt concept of taking things out to the farthest permutation of what could possibly happen and I try to infuse some of that into my own work but sometimes I get too silly to make it happen.
Ash: Sometimes. Both of my Nano novels, I knew how they would end. Jenni and I kind of had a general idea when it came to Behind the Naugahyde but we've come up with more and more as we go. The novel I'm working on now I have no clue which makes it even more scary.
10. Where do you write?
Jenni: Usually my office/closet/living room area. Although some of my best work off the computer has come from journaling in my college dorm room or at the beach and especially up north.
Ash: Usually in my office. Sometimes I write at work. Other times I write at the library or a coffee shop if it's too hot and I need some free air conditioning.
11. What do you do when you get writer’s block?
Jenni: I don't write. Jacqueline Woodson says there's no such thing as writer's block, only fear. I don't know if I believe that or not, but I don't feel like I get writer's block like not knowing what to write. I more-so get writer's blah, as in, I don't feel like writing (so I don't). It's only a problem if I'm on a deadline. Incidentally, I feel the same way about grading papers (hence posting).
Ash: I go for a walk, watch T.V or a movie, read, listen to music. I do anything but write and hope that something pops in my head.
12. What size increments do you write in (either in terms of word count, or as a percentage of the book as a whole)?
Jenni: It has a sound effect like BLEURGH! It pretty much just comes pouring out when I feel like writing. Poor Ash leaves one chapter up to me and gets sent 27 pages back!
Ash: As much as I can at once. I don't usually get the luxury of writing for as long as I want.
13. How many different drafts did you write for your last project?
Jenni: I wrote two drafts under durress and hated the second. (I was urged to forgo some swearing in my first one-act play - ultimately, I liked the swearing better and tossed the 'clean' version.) I'm typically a one-draft type of gal.
Ash: My last project would be my last Nano novel and so far I've only written one.
14. Have you ever changed a character’s name midway through a draft?
Jenni: Not on purpose. I get so attached to the character via their name that it's difficult for me. It's like changing the whole character.
Ash: In Behind the Naugahyde, Jenni and I decided on a name for a character. Then I realized half way through that I had been using the wrong name. And there were a few times I changed names on purpose either because I had already used them or they just didn't seem to fit anymore.
15. Do you let anyone read your book while you’re working on it, or do you wait until you’ve completed a draft before letting someone else see it?
Jenni: Even when I get stuff done, I don't normally show it to anyone unless I'm trying to get it published. We tried to do a focus group on BTN and it was a huge flop. However, Jacqueline Woodson mentioned at Bright Ideas that it was never a "bright idea" to show someone your work while you were still working on it because if they criticize it you might feel too vulnerable or influenced to finish it. Other than putting myself out on the line for someone to critique it, I find it annoying when people are all "ooh ooh, here's how you should end it" and their ending is LAME!
Ash: I usually wait until it's finished but there was one exception. It didn't really go like I thought it would so I doubt I'd do it again.
16. What do you do to celebrate when you finish a draft?
Jenni: Send it to Ashley since it's usually my way-late part for BTN?
Ash: Announce it on my blog!
17. One project at a time, or multiple projects at once?
Jenni: Multiple, for sure.
Ash: I try to focus on one project at a time but occasionally, when I'm having writer's block or procrastinating, I'll work on something else for bit. Usually just editing.
18. Do your books grow or shrink in revision?
Jenni: Unfortunately, grow. It's like a one step forward two steps back thing. If I shrink it at all, that's usually overshadowed by the dramatic growth that I put someplace else in the draft.
Ash: I have yet to fully revise a book so it's hard to say.
19. Do you have any writing or critique partners?
Jenni: Ashley is my writing partner! If I actually wrote some more junk, she would be called upon to critique it. (Just wait until summer!)
Ash: Jenni is my writing partner and has often critiqued my work as well.
20. Do you prefer drafting or revising?
Jenni: Drafting. I'm kind of a revision-hater, even though I know it's totally necessary and can sometimes (especially with Ashley) be a ton of fun!
Ash: I've always done revisions.
**These answers were reposted without the consent of Jenni. She's probably going to sue me now. Oh well, it was worth it.**
Obviously, we have such an awesome friendship because we do have many things in common. However, it seems that when it comes to writing we can't agree on anything. Although, writing Behind the Naugahyde actually goes rather smoothly.
And yes I did post this same quiz yesterday but today it's new and improved. However, since I did post my own answers yesterday I put them in a smaller font today. That means that the smaller font on the red words is not because red is an inferior color to green, which is another subject Jenni and I do not agree on.
1. Do you outline?
Jenni: No, not really. I, sometimes, have the gyst of how I kind of want things to go in my head, but I don't write it down. I sometimes outline lessons plans for school but they are such bare bones that I will even forget what I meant by them.
Ash: Yes, most of the time. Occasionally I do just go on a whim and sometimes I write an outline but don't stick to it at all. I mostly do it because my mind works faster than I type and I think if I write down general notes, like an outline, I won't forget anything.
2. Do you write straight through a book, or do you sometimes tackle the scenes out of order?
Jenni: I kind of like to do things out of order and figure it out later.
Ash: I've always written straight through.
3. Do you prefer writing with a pen or using a computer?
Jenni: Computer, all the way. If I have to write by hand, then with a pen but not a smeary one. Pencils are ok if I'm in the right mood (and they can't be smeary either!).
Ash: I prefer writing with a pen but I hate having to type it in again later. Although, it is a good way to reread and edit what I've already written.
4. Do you prefer writing in first person or third?
Jenni: I do mostly third because so much of my writing has been focused on Behind the Naugahyde or my one-act plays, but often the first person stuff (even if the character is not me at all) can be better (see Six Months to the Day).
Ash: Most of the stuff I've written is in third person. I did do something in second person once and it's my only short story to get published in an actual literary magazine.
5. Do you listen to music while you write? If so, do you create a play list, listen randomly, or pick a single song that fits the book?
Jenni: No! I can't concentrate and write in English if it's anything but silent. I can do German, grading, and puzzles with music. If I had to pick a song to fit Behind the Naugahyde though, I would say "Footloose." LOL
Ash: YES! I always listen to music when I'm writing. Sometimes I pick just one song that fits the book. Other times I pick a few CD's that work. I don't really make a play list though. I don't have the technology to do so unless I want to get up every four minutes and put a new song on, which significantly cuts down on writing time.
6. How do you come up with the perfect names for your characters?
Jenni: For my one-act plays, I take the name of the person in real life who inspired me and mix up the letters to form a new name. Mostly this is why all of the characters in my one act plays have dumb names like Reic or Evest (based on students' names).
Ash: Sometimes I think of names that are similar to the people the characters are inspired by. Not necessarily names that sound or are spelled similar but names that have the same characteristics like short, rare, common, simple. If I'm writing at work sometimes I use the names of shoes or shoe companies.
7. When you’re writing, do you ever imagine your book as a television show or movie?
Jenni: I know exactly how the one-act plays will look on stage, and I have already figured out how Behind the Naugahyde can be made into a movie.
Ash: Not necessarily that it would get made into one of them but I picture them in my head as if they were one and then I write what I see.
8. Have you ever had a character insist on doing something you really didn’t want him/her to do?
Jenni: LOL! Ditto Ash's answer.
Ash: If you count being boring, yes. Otherwise I can't really say that has happened to me.
9. Do you know how a book is going to end when you start it?
Jenni: Usually not, I'm finding out. I like the Frederich Duerrenmatt concept of taking things out to the farthest permutation of what could possibly happen and I try to infuse some of that into my own work but sometimes I get too silly to make it happen.
Ash: Sometimes. Both of my Nano novels, I knew how they would end. Jenni and I kind of had a general idea when it came to Behind the Naugahyde but we've come up with more and more as we go. The novel I'm working on now I have no clue which makes it even more scary.
10. Where do you write?
Jenni: Usually my office/closet/living room area. Although some of my best work off the computer has come from journaling in my college dorm room or at the beach and especially up north.
Ash: Usually in my office. Sometimes I write at work. Other times I write at the library or a coffee shop if it's too hot and I need some free air conditioning.
11. What do you do when you get writer’s block?
Jenni: I don't write. Jacqueline Woodson says there's no such thing as writer's block, only fear. I don't know if I believe that or not, but I don't feel like I get writer's block like not knowing what to write. I more-so get writer's blah, as in, I don't feel like writing (so I don't). It's only a problem if I'm on a deadline. Incidentally, I feel the same way about grading papers (hence posting).
Ash: I go for a walk, watch T.V or a movie, read, listen to music. I do anything but write and hope that something pops in my head.
12. What size increments do you write in (either in terms of word count, or as a percentage of the book as a whole)?
Jenni: It has a sound effect like BLEURGH! It pretty much just comes pouring out when I feel like writing. Poor Ash leaves one chapter up to me and gets sent 27 pages back!
Ash: As much as I can at once. I don't usually get the luxury of writing for as long as I want.
13. How many different drafts did you write for your last project?
Jenni: I wrote two drafts under durress and hated the second. (I was urged to forgo some swearing in my first one-act play - ultimately, I liked the swearing better and tossed the 'clean' version.) I'm typically a one-draft type of gal.
Ash: My last project would be my last Nano novel and so far I've only written one.
14. Have you ever changed a character’s name midway through a draft?
Jenni: Not on purpose. I get so attached to the character via their name that it's difficult for me. It's like changing the whole character.
Ash: In Behind the Naugahyde, Jenni and I decided on a name for a character. Then I realized half way through that I had been using the wrong name. And there were a few times I changed names on purpose either because I had already used them or they just didn't seem to fit anymore.
15. Do you let anyone read your book while you’re working on it, or do you wait until you’ve completed a draft before letting someone else see it?
Jenni: Even when I get stuff done, I don't normally show it to anyone unless I'm trying to get it published. We tried to do a focus group on BTN and it was a huge flop. However, Jacqueline Woodson mentioned at Bright Ideas that it was never a "bright idea" to show someone your work while you were still working on it because if they criticize it you might feel too vulnerable or influenced to finish it. Other than putting myself out on the line for someone to critique it, I find it annoying when people are all "ooh ooh, here's how you should end it" and their ending is LAME!
Ash: I usually wait until it's finished but there was one exception. It didn't really go like I thought it would so I doubt I'd do it again.
16. What do you do to celebrate when you finish a draft?
Jenni: Send it to Ashley since it's usually my way-late part for BTN?
Ash: Announce it on my blog!
17. One project at a time, or multiple projects at once?
Jenni: Multiple, for sure.
Ash: I try to focus on one project at a time but occasionally, when I'm having writer's block or procrastinating, I'll work on something else for bit. Usually just editing.
18. Do your books grow or shrink in revision?
Jenni: Unfortunately, grow. It's like a one step forward two steps back thing. If I shrink it at all, that's usually overshadowed by the dramatic growth that I put someplace else in the draft.
Ash: I have yet to fully revise a book so it's hard to say.
19. Do you have any writing or critique partners?
Jenni: Ashley is my writing partner! If I actually wrote some more junk, she would be called upon to critique it. (Just wait until summer!)
Ash: Jenni is my writing partner and has often critiqued my work as well.
20. Do you prefer drafting or revising?
Jenni: Drafting. I'm kind of a revision-hater, even though I know it's totally necessary and can sometimes (especially with Ashley) be a ton of fun!
Ash: I've always done revisions.
**These answers were reposted without the consent of Jenni. She's probably going to sue me now. Oh well, it was worth it.**
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Writer's quiz
Dancing with the Stars is now over. I thought Laila, Joey and Apollo were all awesome from the beginning so I didn't care who won as long as they were the final three.
Since I spent tonight, my final night since the season finales are over, glued to the television here's a little writer survey that I found and saved in case there was ever a day or two when I didn't have a lot of time to write a post.
So there's a little more insight to my writing technique. I hope no one got hurt when they jumped out of their chair from the excitement.
Since I spent tonight, my final night since the season finales are over, glued to the television here's a little writer survey that I found and saved in case there was ever a day or two when I didn't have a lot of time to write a post.
1. Do you outline?
Yes, most of the time. Occasionally I do just go on a whim and sometimes I write an outline but don't stick to it at all. I mostly do it because my mind works faster than I type and I think if I write down general notes, like an outline, I won't forget anything.2. Do you write straight through a book, or do you sometimes tackle the scenes out of order?
3. Do you prefer writing with a pen or using a computer?
I prefer writing with a pen but I hate having to type it in again later. Although, it is a good way to reread and edit what I've already written.
4. Do you prefer writing in first person or third?
Most of the stuff I've written is in third person. I did do something in second person once and it's my only short story to get published in an actual literary magazine.
5. Do you listen to music while you write? If so, do you create a play list, listen randomly, or pick a single song that fits the book?
YES! I always listen to music when I'm writing. Sometimes I pick just one song that fits the book. Other times I pick a few CD's that work. I don't really make a play list though. I don't have the technology to do so unless I want to get up every four minutes and put a new song on, which significantly cuts down on writing time.
6. How do you come up with the perfect names for your characters?
Sometimes I think of names that are similar to the people the characters are inspired by. Not necessarily names that sound or are spelled similar but names that have the same characteristics like short, rare, common, simple.
7. When you’re writing, do you ever imagine your book as a television show or movie?
Not necessarily that it would get made into one of them but I picture them in my head as if they were one and then I write what I see.
8. Have you ever had a character insist on doing something you really didn’t want him/her to do?
If you count being boring, yes. Otherwise I can't really say that has happened to me.
9. Do you know how a book is going to end when you start it?
Sometimes. Both of my Nano novels, I knew how they would end. Jenni and I kind of had a general idea when it came to Behind the Naugahyde but we've come up with more and more as we go. The novel I'm working on now I have no clue which makes it even more scary.
10. Where do you write?
Usually in my office. Sometimes I write at work. Other times I write at the library or a coffee shop if it's too hot and I need some free air conditioning.
11. What do you do when you get writer’s block?
I go for a walk, watch T.V or a movie, read, listen to music. I do anything but write and hope that something pops in my head.
12. What size increments do you write in (either in terms of word count, or as a percentage of the book as a whole)?
As much as I can at once. I don't usually get the luxury of writing for as long as I want.13. How many different drafts did you write for your last project?
My last project would be my last Nano novel and so far I've only written one.
14. Have you ever changed a character’s name midway through a draft?
In Behind the Naugahyde, Jenni and I decided on a name for a character. Then I realized half way through that I had been using the wrong name. And there were a few times I changed names on purpose either because I had already used them or they just didn't seem to fit anymore.
15. Do you let anyone read your book while you’re working on it, or do you wait until you’ve completed a draft before letting someone else see it?
16. What do you do to celebrate when you finish a draft?
Announce it on my blog!
17. One project at a time, or multiple projects at once?
I try to focus on one project at a time but occasionally, when I'm having writer's block or procrastinating, I'll work on something else for bit. Usually just editing.
18. Do your books grow or shrink in revision?
I have yet to fully revise a book so it's hard to say.
19. Do you have any writing or critique partners?
Jenni is my writing partner and has often critiqued my work as well.20. Do you prefer drafting or revising?
I've always done revisions.So there's a little more insight to my writing technique. I hope no one got hurt when they jumped out of their chair from the excitement.
Monday, May 21, 2007
Heroes is over and the Harry Potter schedule is soon to begin.
Yes, I should not have been neglecting writing to watch t.v. again tonight but it was the Heroes season finale. I'm so sad it's over for now. Of course since it's going to be back next season they didn't wrap everything up but the big stuff got answered. I'm satisfied.
So now that every show I usually watch on a regular basis has had their season finales, except Dancing with the Stars which is tomorrow, I will no longer be sidetracked by t.v. Of course, now we're getting into the summer movie season so I'll probably be a the movies a lot, paycheck permitting.
Then there's Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows coming out. Am I the only one that has a schedule made to read each of the previous books before the last one comes out?
Tentatively it goes like this:
June 10-16 The Sorcerer's Stone
June 17-23 The Chamber of Secrets
June 24-30 The Prisoner of Azkaban
July 1-7 The Goblet of Fire
July 8-14 The Order of the Phoenix (the movie comes out the 13th)
July 15- 20 The Half-Blood Prince
July 21 The Deathly Hallows ( and yes I will read it all in one day)
It usually doesn't take a week for me to read a book especially if work continues to be super slow. I just like to factor in things that may come up and I'm the maid-of-honor in a wedding on July 4 so I imagine the wedding and wedding related things will mess up my schedule a bit.
So now that every show I usually watch on a regular basis has had their season finales, except Dancing with the Stars which is tomorrow, I will no longer be sidetracked by t.v. Of course, now we're getting into the summer movie season so I'll probably be a the movies a lot, paycheck permitting.
Then there's Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows coming out. Am I the only one that has a schedule made to read each of the previous books before the last one comes out?
Tentatively it goes like this:
June 10-16 The Sorcerer's Stone
June 17-23 The Chamber of Secrets
June 24-30 The Prisoner of Azkaban
July 1-7 The Goblet of Fire
July 8-14 The Order of the Phoenix (the movie comes out the 13th)
July 15- 20 The Half-Blood Prince
July 21 The Deathly Hallows ( and yes I will read it all in one day)
It usually doesn't take a week for me to read a book especially if work continues to be super slow. I just like to factor in things that may come up and I'm the maid-of-honor in a wedding on July 4 so I imagine the wedding and wedding related things will mess up my schedule a bit.
Sunday, May 20, 2007
Comments, non-readers and animated t.v. show season finales featuring politics. That's if you're still awake after reading this title.
Wow! When I checked my e-mail this morning my mail box was full of blog comments. It's nice to know someone is reading.
Not that I'm being a whiner about not having any blog readers but I realized today that Jenni is the only person that I didn't meet through this blog that actually reads this blog. That means all my other family, friends, acquaintances, and co-workers don't read my blog. Can you feel the love? I'm sure a few have stopped by before but none of them have returned.
Well enough whining. I must admit that I took time off from writing to watch the Simpsons 400th episode and the Family Guy season finale.
First may I say that the alternative world in Family Guy where Lois marries Quagmire is awesome!
Second, I was almost disappointed with the Simpsons until Lisa asked the question I've being wondering about for quite some time. How can FOX be the channel known for airing controversial shows like Married with Children and Family Guy, yet FOX News is known for being the most conservative news? And they actually answered it.
Since the things I liked about both shows were rather political, I'm not going to give more detail because I don't like to discuss politics on my writing blog. But if anyone reading doesn't usually watch the shows, *cough* Jenni, then I can fill you in later.
Not that I'm being a whiner about not having any blog readers but I realized today that Jenni is the only person that I didn't meet through this blog that actually reads this blog. That means all my other family, friends, acquaintances, and co-workers don't read my blog. Can you feel the love? I'm sure a few have stopped by before but none of them have returned.
Well enough whining. I must admit that I took time off from writing to watch the Simpsons 400th episode and the Family Guy season finale.
First may I say that the alternative world in Family Guy where Lois marries Quagmire is awesome!
Second, I was almost disappointed with the Simpsons until Lisa asked the question I've being wondering about for quite some time. How can FOX be the channel known for airing controversial shows like Married with Children and Family Guy, yet FOX News is known for being the most conservative news? And they actually answered it.
Since the things I liked about both shows were rather political, I'm not going to give more detail because I don't like to discuss politics on my writing blog. But if anyone reading doesn't usually watch the shows, *cough* Jenni, then I can fill you in later.
Saturday, May 19, 2007
Tough decisions
Okay, I lied. I got another rejection today and it only had a $.39 stamp on it. That made me wonder why it is that the old stamps can't be "forever stamps" if the new ones are going to be. Maybe it's something to do with processing them.
Anyway, I'm super bummed because I had to work today so that meant no Motor City Comicon for me.
On a whole other boring topic, lately, I've been thinking a lot about how in some books and movies it's so easy to make the right choice. Everything is obvious. This person is completely good or completely bad. Good beats evil, happiness wins over money. It just always seems so easy. Everyone knows what's going to happen because there is only one choice that makes sense. I know not all book and movies are like that and I really know life isn't like that.
I think most often I write characters that are completely good or bad. It's easy for me to decide their fate. I need to learn how to break away from that and make the characters more complex. But if I never know what to do about those tough situations in my own life how will I know how to deal with them in my writing?
Anyway, I'm super bummed because I had to work today so that meant no Motor City Comicon for me.
On a whole other boring topic, lately, I've been thinking a lot about how in some books and movies it's so easy to make the right choice. Everything is obvious. This person is completely good or completely bad. Good beats evil, happiness wins over money. It just always seems so easy. Everyone knows what's going to happen because there is only one choice that makes sense. I know not all book and movies are like that and I really know life isn't like that.
I think most often I write characters that are completely good or bad. It's easy for me to decide their fate. I need to learn how to break away from that and make the characters more complex. But if I never know what to do about those tough situations in my own life how will I know how to deal with them in my writing?
Friday, May 18, 2007
Submissions, work and itchiness.
Well I got three rejection letters in the mail this week and I'm pretty sure they are the last ones I will get in the mail for awhile thanks to the postage rate change that started on Monday.
I'm still out of ink and now I'm out of stamps so I've put in some e-mail submissions this week.
And I'm having a submission dilemma. On the publications that ask for a bio I'm not sure if I put it on my cover letter or after my story or on it's own page. Also, I worry about what my bio should say. I really don't have anything noteworthy to mention. Before I used to just fudge through these things but now I start to stress that maybe these little things could make all the difference.
Work has been insane this week so I'm definitely getting material for Behind the Naugahyde. Although, Jenni has been super busy and I haven't heard from her in a while so we haven't gotten much work done on it.
I did finally start my new novel while I was at work. I only got the first five paragraphs done because customers kept coming in and interrupting me.
My novel has a bunch of characters that don't know each other and I want to start the book by showing their different life styles before they all end up meeting. I'm struggling with how to do this with out confusing the reader. I thought it might be good to read a book that does this but I can't think of one.
I'm having a horrible allergic reaction to something and it has made my ears and neck turn red and itchy and my eyes won't stop watering. I hardly got any sleep because of it. So I'm tired and work put me in a really bad mood. Now I just want to go to sleep so this post is short and boring. But I didn't post yesterday and I'm trying to stay in the habit of posting often so I decided to write it anyway. I promise I'll try to post something more interesting tomorrow.
I'm still out of ink and now I'm out of stamps so I've put in some e-mail submissions this week.
And I'm having a submission dilemma. On the publications that ask for a bio I'm not sure if I put it on my cover letter or after my story or on it's own page. Also, I worry about what my bio should say. I really don't have anything noteworthy to mention. Before I used to just fudge through these things but now I start to stress that maybe these little things could make all the difference.
Work has been insane this week so I'm definitely getting material for Behind the Naugahyde. Although, Jenni has been super busy and I haven't heard from her in a while so we haven't gotten much work done on it.
I did finally start my new novel while I was at work. I only got the first five paragraphs done because customers kept coming in and interrupting me.
My novel has a bunch of characters that don't know each other and I want to start the book by showing their different life styles before they all end up meeting. I'm struggling with how to do this with out confusing the reader. I thought it might be good to read a book that does this but I can't think of one.
I'm having a horrible allergic reaction to something and it has made my ears and neck turn red and itchy and my eyes won't stop watering. I hardly got any sleep because of it. So I'm tired and work put me in a really bad mood. Now I just want to go to sleep so this post is short and boring. But I didn't post yesterday and I'm trying to stay in the habit of posting often so I decided to write it anyway. I promise I'll try to post something more interesting tomorrow.
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Another search
I was on a roll posting ever day and then I ruined it. I have no good excuse except laziness. Also the post that I put up on Monday for some reason didn't post on the top so I thought I would leave it at the top for another day.
The search for a writing group may turn out to be as difficult as my search for an artist has been. Out of all the replies I've gotten there are a few that were a bit odd. One writing group gave me all the details about their group like what to bring and where to meet but they didn't give me the time. I e-mailed back but haven't gotten a reply. Another person told me that I didn't want to join their group and that I should take writing classes before joining a group anyway. I hope that wasn't a shot at my e-mail, which I proofread because I did not want to look like an idiot. Whatever the reason, it was annoying because I have taken writing classes. Just because you have a writing group and I don't, doesn't make you better than me. Of course, I could be reading too much into it. I do have a bit of an overactive imagination. I also got a reply from a group of senior ladies that write historic creative non-fiction. And my attempts to start my own writing group have been smashed down by the fact that no one replied.
I could always join another writing class just so I could have people workshop my writing but I always have anxiety when it comes to workshops. I'm not sure how a writing group would cause less anxiety but what I am pretty sure of is that I don't want to pay hundreds of dollars to have "deep" people tell me my stories are bad. At least not when there's a chance I can get that for free.
The search for a writing group may turn out to be as difficult as my search for an artist has been. Out of all the replies I've gotten there are a few that were a bit odd. One writing group gave me all the details about their group like what to bring and where to meet but they didn't give me the time. I e-mailed back but haven't gotten a reply. Another person told me that I didn't want to join their group and that I should take writing classes before joining a group anyway. I hope that wasn't a shot at my e-mail, which I proofread because I did not want to look like an idiot. Whatever the reason, it was annoying because I have taken writing classes. Just because you have a writing group and I don't, doesn't make you better than me. Of course, I could be reading too much into it. I do have a bit of an overactive imagination. I also got a reply from a group of senior ladies that write historic creative non-fiction. And my attempts to start my own writing group have been smashed down by the fact that no one replied.
I could always join another writing class just so I could have people workshop my writing but I always have anxiety when it comes to workshops. I'm not sure how a writing group would cause less anxiety but what I am pretty sure of is that I don't want to pay hundreds of dollars to have "deep" people tell me my stories are bad. At least not when there's a chance I can get that for free.
Monday, May 14, 2007
Why I didn't get anything done today.
I went to Mackinac Island today. I had a lot of fun because I love the island and often thought it would be fun to stay on it during the winter months and force myself to write a book. Of course whenever I see the Grand Hotel on the island, I always think of the hotel in the Shining by Stephen King.
The island is near where the upper and lower Michigan peninsulas meet, well they're connected by a bridge. Anyway, the island is like taking a trip back in time because they don't allow cars on the island. Everyone gets around by horses and bikes. And the hotels and businesses try to maintain the old-fashioned look of the early 1900's. It's quite enchanting and expensive.
The island has some history with writers. Mark Twain once spoke at the Grand Hotel. The movie Somewhere In Time, which is about a playwright that goes back in time to meet an actress, was filmed there.
Well, that's not exactly a huge history. I think there were other things I've heard about writers on Mackinac Island but I can't remember them right now. Or maybe I just think that because it seems like the kind of place a writer would go to write a book or a place that would inspire them to write a book. Or it could just be me.
So that's what I did with my day and I didn't get any writing done. Now I'm off to watch Heroes.
***And congratulations to D.B.Echo on his 3 year blogiversary!!!!!!***
*oops this post was suppose to go at the top. No clue on why it didn't!
The island is near where the upper and lower Michigan peninsulas meet, well they're connected by a bridge. Anyway, the island is like taking a trip back in time because they don't allow cars on the island. Everyone gets around by horses and bikes. And the hotels and businesses try to maintain the old-fashioned look of the early 1900's. It's quite enchanting and expensive.
The island has some history with writers. Mark Twain once spoke at the Grand Hotel. The movie Somewhere In Time, which is about a playwright that goes back in time to meet an actress, was filmed there.
Well, that's not exactly a huge history. I think there were other things I've heard about writers on Mackinac Island but I can't remember them right now. Or maybe I just think that because it seems like the kind of place a writer would go to write a book or a place that would inspire them to write a book. Or it could just be me.
So that's what I did with my day and I didn't get any writing done. Now I'm off to watch Heroes.
***And congratulations to D.B.Echo on his 3 year blogiversary!!!!!!***
*oops this post was suppose to go at the top. No clue on why it didn't!
Sunday, May 13, 2007
Married with children? Not yet.
I had one of those awful moments today where I ran into someone from high school. He works at a company that makes containers as the production scheduler to pay for law school. Impressive, not quite as impressive as 'I manage a shoe store'.
It is good motivation to get my butt in gear. Not that I write to impress people but it would be nice to not have people making Al Bundy jokes behind my back.
Now I'm bummed but motivated. Off to work on my novel.
It is good motivation to get my butt in gear. Not that I write to impress people but it would be nice to not have people making Al Bundy jokes behind my back.
Now I'm bummed but motivated. Off to work on my novel.
Saturday, May 12, 2007
First lines
It's crazy I can't believe that I'm posting yet again. Maybe I'm getting into a good habit. Another good habit I need to get into is starting my novel and working on it everyday. I'm not sure how well that's going to work out.
I've been seriously struggling about coming up with a first line. I think it is one of, if not the most, crucial lines in the whole story. It has to grab the reader's attention, set the mood for the whole story and it has to be perfect in every way. I'm stressing out.
I know I could just settle on something and then work on it later but I think that sets a bad path for me. If I settle on this line then I'll settle on every line and then where do I draw the line. It just needs to be the best sentence I've ever written and no less.
In hopes to work it out I decided to go through some of the books I own and study some of the first lines.
"When he was nearly thirteen, my brother Jem got his arm badly broken at the elbow."
- 'To Kill A Mocking Bird' by Harper Lee
"It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife."
- 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen
"She hurries from the house, wearing a coat too heavy for the weather."
- 'The Hours' by Michael Cunningham
"In my younger and more vulnerable years my father gave me some advice that I've been turning over in my mind ever since."
-'The Great Gatsby' by F. Scott Fitzgerald
"It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair."
-'A Tale of Two Cities' by Charles Dickens
"If you really want to hear about it, the first thing you'll probably want to know is where I was born, and what my lousy childhood was like, and how my parents were occupied and all before they had me, and all that David Copperfield kind of crap, but I don't feel like going into it, if you want to know the truth."
-'The Catcher in the Rye' by J.D. Salinger
Of course, now that I've typed all those out, I just found the American Book Reviews top 100 first lines . I think the only one on my list not on theirs is from the Hours which is actually my favorite. It says a lot about what's going on. (She's left a house. She's in a hurry and it must be somewhat warm out.) It makes me wonder why she's leaving in such a hurry, where she's going and why she's wearing such a heavy coat. The reason I love it the most is because it's simple. So I guess that's what I should be trying to bring to my book.
"Three more months and this hell would be over."
I've been seriously struggling about coming up with a first line. I think it is one of, if not the most, crucial lines in the whole story. It has to grab the reader's attention, set the mood for the whole story and it has to be perfect in every way. I'm stressing out.
I know I could just settle on something and then work on it later but I think that sets a bad path for me. If I settle on this line then I'll settle on every line and then where do I draw the line. It just needs to be the best sentence I've ever written and no less.
In hopes to work it out I decided to go through some of the books I own and study some of the first lines.
"When he was nearly thirteen, my brother Jem got his arm badly broken at the elbow."
- 'To Kill A Mocking Bird' by Harper Lee
"It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife."
- 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen
"She hurries from the house, wearing a coat too heavy for the weather."
- 'The Hours' by Michael Cunningham
"In my younger and more vulnerable years my father gave me some advice that I've been turning over in my mind ever since."
-'The Great Gatsby' by F. Scott Fitzgerald
"It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair."
-'A Tale of Two Cities' by Charles Dickens
"If you really want to hear about it, the first thing you'll probably want to know is where I was born, and what my lousy childhood was like, and how my parents were occupied and all before they had me, and all that David Copperfield kind of crap, but I don't feel like going into it, if you want to know the truth."
-'The Catcher in the Rye' by J.D. Salinger
Of course, now that I've typed all those out, I just found the American Book Reviews top 100 first lines . I think the only one on my list not on theirs is from the Hours which is actually my favorite. It says a lot about what's going on. (She's left a house. She's in a hurry and it must be somewhat warm out.) It makes me wonder why she's leaving in such a hurry, where she's going and why she's wearing such a heavy coat. The reason I love it the most is because it's simple. So I guess that's what I should be trying to bring to my book.
"Three more months and this hell would be over."
Friday, May 11, 2007
"How you comin' on that novel?"
I was reminded once again, when I got my second questionnaire the other day, that I have no choice but to write this book. Both surveys that I received have come with that wonderful note that has sealed the fate of this book. "I can't wait to read it." It must be written or I will disappoint people. I know maybe they don't care enough to be disappointed in me but I don't want to be that person that everyone comes up to for the next five years and ask, " So how's that novel coming?" That means the pressure is on.
It's bad enough that I have a co-worker, who has the ability to quote just about every movie and T.V. show she's ever seen, is amazing at doing the voices of just about every character, and who also happens to be a huge Family Guy fan. Anyway, she knows Jenni and I are working on Behind the Naugahyde so she comes up to me all the time and says:
I definitely don't want to keep hearing that. Although, I'm not sure which is worse "How's that novel coming?" or "Your book sucked!"
It's bad enough that I have a co-worker, who has the ability to quote just about every movie and T.V. show she's ever seen, is amazing at doing the voices of just about every character, and who also happens to be a huge Family Guy fan. Anyway, she knows Jenni and I are working on Behind the Naugahyde so she comes up to me all the time and says:
"How you uh, how you comin' on that novel you're working on? Huh? Gotta a big, uh, big stack of papers there? Gotta, gotta nice little story you're working on there? Your big novel you've been working on for 3 years? Huh? Gotta, gotta compelling protagonist? Yeah? Gotta obstacle for him to overcome? Huh? Gotta story brewing there? Working on, working on that for quite some time? Huh? Yea, talking about that 3 years ago. Been working on that the whole time? Nice little narrative? Beginning, middle, and end? Some friends become enemies, some enemies become friends? At the end your main character is richer from the experience? Yeah? Yeah? No, no, you deserve some time off."
or
" Oh I know it hurts now, but look at the bright side: you have some new material for that novel you've been writing. You know...the novel you've been workin' on? You know the the one, uh, you've been workin on for three years? You know the novel. Got somethin' new to write about now. You know? Maybe a, maybe a main character gets into a relationship and suffers a little heartbreak? Somethin' like what... what you've just been through? Draw from real life experience? Little, little heartbreak? You know? Work it into the story? Make the characters a little more three dimensional? Little, uh, richer experience for the reader? Make those second hundred pages really keep the reader guessing what's going to happen? Some twists and turns? A little epilogue? Everybody learns that the hero's journey isn't always a happy one? Oh, I look forward to reading it. "
- Stewie to Brian from "Family Guy"
I definitely don't want to keep hearing that. Although, I'm not sure which is worse "How's that novel coming?" or "Your book sucked!"
Thursday, May 10, 2007
TWO YEARS!
YAY! It's been two years of blogging! I couldn't think of anything super special so I thought how about stats. Everyone likes stats. They are short, easy to read, don't take much thought to comprehend and hopefully are somewhat entertaining. Plus it's a good thing to do on an anniversary. It's a way to look back at all the cool things that have been documented on this blog. Especially, since there hasn't been much big and exciting news lately.
Of course some of the things listed may have happened pre-blog and if so I apologize but sometimes it's hard to keep track.
Date started: May 10, 2005
Visits to this blog since getting a site meter:2,077
Number of post:234
Rejection notices: 155 (This number may be a little off since some of the notes do not have dates and I didn't keep very good submission records when I first started.)
Stories published: 3 (Double Take, Double Take 2- Sophomore year, Sweaty Palms)
NaNoWriMos participated in: 2
Novels worked on: 3(Nano 1- untitled, Nano 2- untitled, Behind the Naugahyde)(This is novels that I actually started writing)
Novels completed: 2 (Nano 1- untitled, Nano 2- untitled) (This is novels that I finished writing the first draft but have not necessarily been edited.)
Short stories written:15 (most notable- Double Take 2 and Sweaty Palms)
Submissions sent out:227
Writing contest entered:4
Writing contest that my work placed in: 1 (2nd place in the LCC division of the L.A.N.D. writing contest)
Different prints of 'freelance writer' business cards: 3
Writing related classes taken: 3 (creative writing 1 & 2, Writing Literature)
Comic book related job ads responded to: at least 4
Comic book scripts worked on:3
Potential comic book artist: 10-give or take
Ashcans made based on my comic book: 1
News articles written for the LCC Lookout: 3
Superhero Sonnets completed: 4
Letters written to Wizard magazine:1
Times I've moved:1
RENT performances attended:2
Agents interested in Behind the Naugahyde:3
Novel promotional websites started:1 (BehindtheNaugahyde.com)
NaBloPoMo blog entries:30(but only 29 days because I'm a bum)
Novels read: more than 51
Times I forgot to save my work before closing a screen: at least 3
Times my Internet was down with technical difficulties:3
Times my Internet was down because I couldn't pay the bill:2
Typos found while researching these stats: 19
Categories for post:64
Links in side bar:16
Different types of errors made when sending out submissions: at least 5 (sticky envelopes, forgetting to put contact info, signing letter from Jenni and Jenni, forgetting to attach the story, and signing the letter Ashley Review)
Times I whined about being out of stamps, envelopes or ink: 7
Things that were too many to count or that I was just too lazy to count: Times I mention Jenni, comments left, post of me babbling about why I write, post I wrote while procrastinating on another project, times I bumped back a project deadline, hours Jenni and I spent planning Behind the Naugahyde, times I mentioned writer envy, movies watched/went to, trips to the library, comic books/graphic novels read.
So there it is. I really wanted to put links to every thing mentioned but that would be a ton of links and it's already taken me a few hours to put this post together over the last few days considering that I had to read and reread my blog a few times. If I tried to make all the links this post might not get done before my next blogiversary.
Thanks to everyone that has stopped by and read my blog over the last two years!
Of course some of the things listed may have happened pre-blog and if so I apologize but sometimes it's hard to keep track.
Date started: May 10, 2005
Visits to this blog since getting a site meter:2,077
Number of post:234
Rejection notices: 155 (This number may be a little off since some of the notes do not have dates and I didn't keep very good submission records when I first started.)
Stories published: 3 (Double Take, Double Take 2- Sophomore year, Sweaty Palms)
NaNoWriMos participated in: 2
Novels worked on: 3(Nano 1- untitled, Nano 2- untitled, Behind the Naugahyde)(This is novels that I actually started writing)
Novels completed: 2 (Nano 1- untitled, Nano 2- untitled) (This is novels that I finished writing the first draft but have not necessarily been edited.)
Short stories written:15 (most notable- Double Take 2 and Sweaty Palms)
Submissions sent out:227
Writing contest entered:4
Writing contest that my work placed in: 1 (2nd place in the LCC division of the L.A.N.D. writing contest)
Different prints of 'freelance writer' business cards: 3
Writing related classes taken: 3 (creative writing 1 & 2, Writing Literature)
Comic book related job ads responded to: at least 4
Comic book scripts worked on:3
Potential comic book artist: 10-give or take
Ashcans made based on my comic book: 1
News articles written for the LCC Lookout: 3
Superhero Sonnets completed: 4
Letters written to Wizard magazine:1
Times I've moved:1
RENT performances attended:2
Agents interested in Behind the Naugahyde:3
Novel promotional websites started:1 (BehindtheNaugahyde.com)
NaBloPoMo blog entries:30(but only 29 days because I'm a bum)
Novels read: more than 51
Times I forgot to save my work before closing a screen: at least 3
Times my Internet was down with technical difficulties:3
Times my Internet was down because I couldn't pay the bill:2
Typos found while researching these stats: 19
Categories for post:64
Links in side bar:16
Different types of errors made when sending out submissions: at least 5 (sticky envelopes, forgetting to put contact info, signing letter from Jenni and Jenni, forgetting to attach the story, and signing the letter Ashley Review)
Times I whined about being out of stamps, envelopes or ink: 7
Things that were too many to count or that I was just too lazy to count: Times I mention Jenni, comments left, post of me babbling about why I write, post I wrote while procrastinating on another project, times I bumped back a project deadline, hours Jenni and I spent planning Behind the Naugahyde, times I mentioned writer envy, movies watched/went to, trips to the library, comic books/graphic novels read.
So there it is. I really wanted to put links to every thing mentioned but that would be a ton of links and it's already taken me a few hours to put this post together over the last few days considering that I had to read and reread my blog a few times. If I tried to make all the links this post might not get done before my next blogiversary.
Thanks to everyone that has stopped by and read my blog over the last two years!
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
Anniversary eve
Tomorrow's the big day. Two official years of blogging. I have a post that I'm preparing. It's not very cool or exciting but neither is two years of my blogging.
Yesterday was my day off and I thought it was rather productive. I got sunburned while sitting outside reading one of my research books. Then I went to the safety of the library where I took a stack of books and browsed through for answers to my unanswered questions.
I was also super excited that I got another one of my questionnaires back in the mail. That was another thing that I sent self-addressed stamped envelopes out for and was worried about the postage change. Anyway, the survey I got back was from an infectious disease doctor and nurse practitioner who specialize in AIDS and work closely with the Lansing Area AIDS Network. The answers are great but they a took a while to decipher because the handwriting is not the best. Not that I'm complaining. I am very grateful for the help.
Aside from that I have been reading about all these awesome things coming to town or close to town that I would love to do but am completely broke. Wicked is coming as well as Barenaked Ladies, Kelly Clarkson, Dancing with the Stars, the Lion King(I was totally bummed I missed it the last time it was near).
Not to mention, even though it's not near, I just read that Anthony Rapp and Adam Pascal are returning to their roles as the original Mark and Roger in RENT. And their run will over lap with Tamyra Gray, from American Idol, playing Mimi. Oh well, I doubt I will save enough money to go to New York by September.
Yesterday was my day off and I thought it was rather productive. I got sunburned while sitting outside reading one of my research books. Then I went to the safety of the library where I took a stack of books and browsed through for answers to my unanswered questions.
I was also super excited that I got another one of my questionnaires back in the mail. That was another thing that I sent self-addressed stamped envelopes out for and was worried about the postage change. Anyway, the survey I got back was from an infectious disease doctor and nurse practitioner who specialize in AIDS and work closely with the Lansing Area AIDS Network. The answers are great but they a took a while to decipher because the handwriting is not the best. Not that I'm complaining. I am very grateful for the help.
Aside from that I have been reading about all these awesome things coming to town or close to town that I would love to do but am completely broke. Wicked is coming as well as Barenaked Ladies, Kelly Clarkson, Dancing with the Stars, the Lion King(I was totally bummed I missed it the last time it was near).
Not to mention, even though it's not near, I just read that Anthony Rapp and Adam Pascal are returning to their roles as the original Mark and Roger in RENT. And their run will over lap with Tamyra Gray, from American Idol, playing Mimi. Oh well, I doubt I will save enough money to go to New York by September.
Monday, May 07, 2007
Suspense, ridiculousness and crazy brides. Sounds like it would make a good story but no, it's just a boring blog post.
Goodness, am I the only one on the edge of my seat waiting for the final two episodes of Heroes? I'm not sure if I can take this new T.V. show format where the whole season is one giant episode that is 'to be continued...'. Sure it allows for a huge epic story that would be way too long for a movie but the suspense kills me. The only thing worse than waiting a whole season to find out what happens is the years that have been waited to find out what happens to Harry Potter. It's madness.
Anyway, I worked on submissions this weekend until my computer ran out of ink. I'm thinking of taking them to work and doing them there since my boss just recently gave me a speech on how my efforts to conserve things for the company, such as paper, were completely pointless. I know those things add up but he doesn't care. He once told Jenni "if a nickel fell out of my pocket every day, I wouldn't care." So I really don't think he can or will be mad that I'm using company time and supplies to work on my writing. Not that he'd ever notice. But enough about work because I need to save the ridiculousness in my 'Behind the Naugahyde-possibilities' folder.
Nothing else really exciting going on. Although I have been involved in and reading blogs about insane pre-wedding functions/weddings and the brides that plan them. I'm not sure what really to do with all the craziness but I feel a story bursting out. I'll just have to figure out what kind of story.
Anyway, I worked on submissions this weekend until my computer ran out of ink. I'm thinking of taking them to work and doing them there since my boss just recently gave me a speech on how my efforts to conserve things for the company, such as paper, were completely pointless. I know those things add up but he doesn't care. He once told Jenni "if a nickel fell out of my pocket every day, I wouldn't care." So I really don't think he can or will be mad that I'm using company time and supplies to work on my writing. Not that he'd ever notice. But enough about work because I need to save the ridiculousness in my 'Behind the Naugahyde-possibilities' folder.
Nothing else really exciting going on. Although I have been involved in and reading blogs about insane pre-wedding functions/weddings and the brides that plan them. I'm not sure what really to do with all the craziness but I feel a story bursting out. I'll just have to figure out what kind of story.
Friday, May 04, 2007
Reading, movies, and more
Just an update on what's going on in my little world. Not much. I've been reading a lot at work, books that I thought would be good research for my upcoming novel but they are really not answering the questions that I have. Maybe I'll do some Internet research when I get some time.
I went to see Spider-man 3 last night. It was good but not great. It had action and humor but sometimes was a little cheesy and there was too much going on. Three villains, two love interests. Sometimes this person's bad, now he's good but the other guy's bad, and now they're both bad. I don't want to say too much because I'd hate to spoil it.
Don't forget tomorrow is free comic book day. So go to your local comic book store and see what comics have to offer.
Also plans for the month of May: I guess I better think of something special because my blog two year anniversary is on May 10th.
And the Motor City Comic Con is coming up in a few weeks. I'd like to go now that I actually get weekends off but I'm not sure if it will fit into the budget.
I went to see Spider-man 3 last night. It was good but not great. It had action and humor but sometimes was a little cheesy and there was too much going on. Three villains, two love interests. Sometimes this person's bad, now he's good but the other guy's bad, and now they're both bad. I don't want to say too much because I'd hate to spoil it.
Don't forget tomorrow is free comic book day. So go to your local comic book store and see what comics have to offer.
Also plans for the month of May: I guess I better think of something special because my blog two year anniversary is on May 10th.
And the Motor City Comic Con is coming up in a few weeks. I'd like to go now that I actually get weekends off but I'm not sure if it will fit into the budget.
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