Yesterday, I met with a friend of mine, who also happens to be a writer. We talked about many things such as finishing what we started, finding time to write and the list goes on. It was a really good conversation and we're going to try to meet more often either to talk about writing, submitting and our work. I think it will be very productive.
One of the other things we talked about was this blog and my livejournal. I have both and I have always kept them separate. I started this blog first about my writing and later started the livejournal so that I could friend my friends. The livejournal has always just been personal posts. Occasionally, I have posted the same stuff both places. I've often wondered what would be the easiest way to get people who read the livejournal to read blogger and people who read blogger to read my livejournal. And not everyone has both so if they follow me on blogspot or livejournal they may never get the other one. I've tried links but that's still a hassle. I thought about giving one up but either way it would be inconvenient for one set of "friends."
After talking about it I'll keep them both but start posting the same thing on each. I mostly post about writing anyway and have seriously neglected the livejournal. I think there was a whole year on livejournal where I posted maybe five times so I'm clearly not writing many personal things that don't link to writing somehow. So now Ink On Paper and Babbling On are the same. I might change them to the same name. I haven't decided which one or maybe just a new name altogether. I also have to decide whether or not to transfer posts from one to the other. Lots to think about but for now I post the same thing on both. So no need to click the link anymore. I'll try it for awhile and we'll see how it goes.
Also, our conversation also came around to Castle the awesome TV show I recently posted about (ABC Monday nights @ 10pm). The book that the character wrote is a real book on the New York Times Bestseller List. I saw the advertisement for it and thought it was a fake to promote the show but it's a real book. How cool is that?
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Monday, October 19, 2009
It sounds good in theory
I must be crazy. Our writing group finally met yesterday. We're suppose to meet the first Sunday every month but we kept putting off this month because it's been super busy for all of us. We got around to yesterday and we had a discussion about NaNoWriMo. Yep, I said it.
These two insanely busy people are going to do it. Naturally I started thinking that I should do it.
At first I thought it would be nuts to do it. I've been so busy I've barely been able to write a scene once a month for writing group. But have I really been that busy? I can think of lots of things, like T.V. and Internet, that I have constantly wasted my time on. Maybe I need NaNoWriMo to force me to write. Of course, it can't force me. I have to do that myself but maybe this commitment to my writing group and myself, is exactly what I need.
So I'm doing it. I signed up this morning. I'm doing NaNoWriMo.
I'll try to put the link to my profile in the sidebar but for now check it out here. And if anyone reading this is daring to do NaNoWriMo be sure to friend me.
These two insanely busy people are going to do it. Naturally I started thinking that I should do it.
At first I thought it would be nuts to do it. I've been so busy I've barely been able to write a scene once a month for writing group. But have I really been that busy? I can think of lots of things, like T.V. and Internet, that I have constantly wasted my time on. Maybe I need NaNoWriMo to force me to write. Of course, it can't force me. I have to do that myself but maybe this commitment to my writing group and myself, is exactly what I need.
So I'm doing it. I signed up this morning. I'm doing NaNoWriMo.
I'll try to put the link to my profile in the sidebar but for now check it out here. And if anyone reading this is daring to do NaNoWriMo be sure to friend me.
Thursday, October 08, 2009
Making it "fair"
I'm converting my old comic book story, Incognito, into prose and have been giving it to my writing group for suggestions. I just finished rewriting the last scene of what would have been issue one and now I'm onto issue two. And I have to say that I absolutely hate what I wrote. There is one scene that makes absolutely no sense to me. I'm not even sure how to fill the void. Maybe I need to read further on to get an idea of what I can do to fix it but I feel like I put my character into a dangerous situation and got them out too easily.
It's kind of like in Stephen King's Misery, when Annie says the way he brings Misery back to life isn't realistic or fair. It's kind of like that, except not as extreme. I'm not trying to bring some back to life or rescue someone from going over a cliff in car. I'm really just trying to get someone, undercover as a prostitute, out of a room before they actually have to get to work. Right now, she sneaks into the bathroom and calls in a bomb threat but realistically how long would it take the cops to get there? And everyone still sees her leaving the building, which I want people to see her but I don't want it be that obvious. I'm just not sure it's the best way to get what I want in the story. But on the other hand I do want her to seem like an amateur at crime fighting so maybe that is why originally wrote such a sloppy and poorly planned escape?
Thank goodness writing group decided to postpone a week other wise I'd only have two pages to take. And if I can't break through this funk I will only have two pages to take on Sunday.
I'll work on it for a few more minutes tonight but then I must be off. Pam and Jim are getting married on the Office tonight. I can't miss it!
It's kind of like in Stephen King's Misery, when Annie says the way he brings Misery back to life isn't realistic or fair. It's kind of like that, except not as extreme. I'm not trying to bring some back to life or rescue someone from going over a cliff in car. I'm really just trying to get someone, undercover as a prostitute, out of a room before they actually have to get to work. Right now, she sneaks into the bathroom and calls in a bomb threat but realistically how long would it take the cops to get there? And everyone still sees her leaving the building, which I want people to see her but I don't want it be that obvious. I'm just not sure it's the best way to get what I want in the story. But on the other hand I do want her to seem like an amateur at crime fighting so maybe that is why originally wrote such a sloppy and poorly planned escape?
Thank goodness writing group decided to postpone a week other wise I'd only have two pages to take. And if I can't break through this funk I will only have two pages to take on Sunday.
I'll work on it for a few more minutes tonight but then I must be off. Pam and Jim are getting married on the Office tonight. I can't miss it!
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
"...they simultaneously murdered the English language."
Last week I watched the season premiere of Castle, a show on ABC. This is it's second season and unfortunately, I didn't catch any of those episodes. I have to say that I really like this show. It's really funny and interesting.
The idea is that a famous novelist is doing research for books by following around a NYC homicide detective. This famous writer, Castle is played by Nathan Fillion formerly known as Captain Malcolm Reynolds in the TV series, Firefly, and movie, Serenity. He manages to bring humor to serious characters and he was just absolutely funny in Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog.
Castle is an interesting character. He's cocky as a writer but also actually good at the detective work.
In last night's episode he obsessed about a murderer who used improper grammar while writing on a dead body. And while the NYPD are wearing bullet proof vests that say "POLICE" his vest says "WRITER".
It's a good show but I can tell that it's not going to be one of those mainstream hits like CSI and I worry that it will be canceled prematurely. However, it made it to a second season so I'll continue to watch. Hopefully, I'll have more good things to say and maybe get a chance to watch the season one episodes.
The idea is that a famous novelist is doing research for books by following around a NYC homicide detective. This famous writer, Castle is played by Nathan Fillion formerly known as Captain Malcolm Reynolds in the TV series, Firefly, and movie, Serenity. He manages to bring humor to serious characters and he was just absolutely funny in Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog.
Castle is an interesting character. He's cocky as a writer but also actually good at the detective work.
In last night's episode he obsessed about a murderer who used improper grammar while writing on a dead body. And while the NYPD are wearing bullet proof vests that say "POLICE" his vest says "WRITER".
It's a good show but I can tell that it's not going to be one of those mainstream hits like CSI and I worry that it will be canceled prematurely. However, it made it to a second season so I'll continue to watch. Hopefully, I'll have more good things to say and maybe get a chance to watch the season one episodes.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Work to do
I met with my writing group tonight. While my Internet was down, again, I got some writing done and actually managed to rewrite some more of my former comic book script, Incognito. I've been taking a little bit of it every month to writing group. I didn't get as much done for this meeting as I would've liked to. I got one scene but it was only two pages. There was another super short scene I had wanted to add but time got away from me this weekend. Despite having three days off.
I've gotten positive feedback so far. I'm trying to make the story a little more humorous since I'm starting to think that might be my strength.
Now we have a solid Internet connection so as long as that holds up, I should be updating more. I actually have quite a few writing projects on the burners right now. And most of them involve other people, which is a good thing because then I feel obligated to keep up with them. I hate letting people down.
And on that note, I should probably get to work.
I've gotten positive feedback so far. I'm trying to make the story a little more humorous since I'm starting to think that might be my strength.
Now we have a solid Internet connection so as long as that holds up, I should be updating more. I actually have quite a few writing projects on the burners right now. And most of them involve other people, which is a good thing because then I feel obligated to keep up with them. I hate letting people down.
And on that note, I should probably get to work.
Sunday, September 06, 2009
Coming Home
It's been three long weeks without Internet and thanks to moving there was little chance to get to the library and do anything, but I'm back now. We managed to get moved into our new house. It's in the same neighborhood that I've lived in twice before. The neighborhood where many of my friends from my school days lived. I love it here and I'm glad we found this house. I have a huge office. (I need to get a big comfy reading chair!) And a whole room for my sale books. There's also a closed in porch for me to write outside but be free from the rain and mosquitoes. It's in a great neighborhood to walk so that I can think things through and there's a park nearby to sit and write at. Plus, there's a huge basement and garage that leaves lots of room for Slipstream Graphics to paint. And the garage leads to the possibility of some very big paint jobs.
This house is a writer and artist's dream come true. We're very happy here. I'm so excited.
And we're finally unpacked for the most part. There's still a few books in boxes but everything is set up and I'm ready to start cranking out some stuff.
The thing I love most about this house is that there's no tension or drama among roommates. There's no one bothering me every second. It's peaceful. And despite having a wonky work schedule, I'm pretty content right now and I feel that if I could just find a routine, that I could really make some progress with writing.
This house is a writer and artist's dream come true. We're very happy here. I'm so excited.
And we're finally unpacked for the most part. There's still a few books in boxes but everything is set up and I'm ready to start cranking out some stuff.
The thing I love most about this house is that there's no tension or drama among roommates. There's no one bothering me every second. It's peaceful. And despite having a wonky work schedule, I'm pretty content right now and I feel that if I could just find a routine, that I could really make some progress with writing.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Moving and movies
I'm going to be moving soon. Hopefully, this next place will last more than a year. So right now I barely have time to get anything finished for writing group. But by the time the move is over it will be right on time for fall submissions, which is when most of the literary magazines come off summer hiatus. In theory, it will be perfect timing. We'll see how that goes.
I did go to see Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. I was a little disappointed with how much extra snogging there was and how much of Voldemort's past there wasn't. They also butchered the final fight scene at Hogwarts and no funeral, which could have been a really good scene.
However, the scenes with Harry on Felix Fix and Ron on love potion were pretty funny. I also thought the young kid that played child Tom Riddle was really good. And I think they did a really good job with Malfoy's character.
Hopefully, the next one has less teen romance and more of the battle with evil wizards!
I did go to see Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. I was a little disappointed with how much extra snogging there was and how much of Voldemort's past there wasn't. They also butchered the final fight scene at Hogwarts and no funeral, which could have been a really good scene.
However, the scenes with Harry on Felix Fix and Ron on love potion were pretty funny. I also thought the young kid that played child Tom Riddle was really good. And I think they did a really good job with Malfoy's character.
Hopefully, the next one has less teen romance and more of the battle with evil wizards!
Wednesday, July 01, 2009
Lowering my IQ one status update at a time.
Okay, I'll admit it. I've been on facebook a lot more than I've been blogging here. It's way easier and takes a lot less thought to write a quick status update and then read my friends brief status updates rather than writing a whole blog post and reading a whole blog post. I also know that it's sad that thoughts can be dumbed down to a few sentences. I'm losing a lot in translation.
And I'm starting to realize that the more I'm on facebook, that it's quite possible my IQ is dropping. People use a lot of slang. They also use a lot of what I call 'text message writing', where they are writing so fast that 'u' has become the knew 'you.' Yes, some people do take the time to write full sentences but for most of those people I really wish there was a spell check or grammar check or 'you missed a word' check.
I'm not saying I haven't made these mistakes. It kills me that I can't go back and edit my comments. My favorite part about writing is the ability to edit over and over again. And even then it's never perfect but I have the chance to fix stupid mistakes.
I also don't want to be the grammar police to my friends so I'm just trying to take the good with the bad. So I deal with the bad grammar, spelling, and language knowing that it's the sacrifice I must make in order to keep in touch with some of my friends. And it's refreshing to know that I can come to my blog or other blogs and get a dose of more developed thought and writing skills.
However, I'm starting to be pushed to the edge of my tolerance of facebook and what is sad is that it's just one person who persistently makes the same stupid error over and over again and it has me so upset that I'm about ready to type my thoughts on it in giant letters.
Who knows, maybe it's just me, maybe I'm neurotic and her use of a term is correct but it doesn't matter in my head it doesn't make sense and it is driving me nuts.
Yet, we all know that I'm too nice to state any negative opinion unless asked. I hate hurting people's feelings so I'm just going to use my blog to articulate my thoughts about this same term and leave it at that. If I can just vent once I think I'll be okay.
So here it goes:
Hey you, girl that I knew in high school only because I worked with your boyfriend. I don't really know you but I friended you because I feel bad about turning anyone down unless they are a creepy weirdo. And I'm sorry that you don't have any friends and that you are on facebook all the time talking about how board you are because you have no friends. I would offer to be your friend but there is one thing that you do that annoys me, above all others and that is TUBBING!
I know you do it every weekend, by yourself, and you love to update your status about it, post pictures with captions about it and invite everyone to go with you but unless you are floating down a river in a BATH TUB, the word you mean to use is TUBING! ONE B! TUBING! NOT TUBBING!
I'm sorry but it's just friggin' annoying and maybe your pleas to have someone, anyone go with you, would be answered if people weren't scared of floating down a river in a metal and/or porcelain tub. Or maybe they are like me and just bothered by your bad language skills.
That is all.
P.S. I go back and forth between writing in my livejournal and my blogger. My lj is mostly for personal stuff and my blog is mostly for writing but any day that I have a recent post on one or the other I'm going to post a link at the bottom of my post so readers of either will know that I have something new on the other. For instance: Yesterday's LiveJournal
And I'm starting to realize that the more I'm on facebook, that it's quite possible my IQ is dropping. People use a lot of slang. They also use a lot of what I call 'text message writing', where they are writing so fast that 'u' has become the knew 'you.' Yes, some people do take the time to write full sentences but for most of those people I really wish there was a spell check or grammar check or 'you missed a word' check.
I'm not saying I haven't made these mistakes. It kills me that I can't go back and edit my comments. My favorite part about writing is the ability to edit over and over again. And even then it's never perfect but I have the chance to fix stupid mistakes.
I also don't want to be the grammar police to my friends so I'm just trying to take the good with the bad. So I deal with the bad grammar, spelling, and language knowing that it's the sacrifice I must make in order to keep in touch with some of my friends. And it's refreshing to know that I can come to my blog or other blogs and get a dose of more developed thought and writing skills.
However, I'm starting to be pushed to the edge of my tolerance of facebook and what is sad is that it's just one person who persistently makes the same stupid error over and over again and it has me so upset that I'm about ready to type my thoughts on it in giant letters.
Who knows, maybe it's just me, maybe I'm neurotic and her use of a term is correct but it doesn't matter in my head it doesn't make sense and it is driving me nuts.
Yet, we all know that I'm too nice to state any negative opinion unless asked. I hate hurting people's feelings so I'm just going to use my blog to articulate my thoughts about this same term and leave it at that. If I can just vent once I think I'll be okay.
So here it goes:
Hey you, girl that I knew in high school only because I worked with your boyfriend. I don't really know you but I friended you because I feel bad about turning anyone down unless they are a creepy weirdo. And I'm sorry that you don't have any friends and that you are on facebook all the time talking about how board you are because you have no friends. I would offer to be your friend but there is one thing that you do that annoys me, above all others and that is TUBBING!
I know you do it every weekend, by yourself, and you love to update your status about it, post pictures with captions about it and invite everyone to go with you but unless you are floating down a river in a BATH TUB, the word you mean to use is TUBING! ONE B! TUBING! NOT TUBBING!
I'm sorry but it's just friggin' annoying and maybe your pleas to have someone, anyone go with you, would be answered if people weren't scared of floating down a river in a metal and/or porcelain tub. Or maybe they are like me and just bothered by your bad language skills.
That is all.
P.S. I go back and forth between writing in my livejournal and my blogger. My lj is mostly for personal stuff and my blog is mostly for writing but any day that I have a recent post on one or the other I'm going to post a link at the bottom of my post so readers of either will know that I have something new on the other. For instance: Yesterday's LiveJournal
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Work in progress
I've actually got a few things accomplished this week and it feels good. I got a scene written for writing group. Then I made a lot of comments about my friends story and sent them off. I've also been working a non-fiction project too. And I'm posting on my blog. Yay!
I also sent my friend a story for him to read through and give me some insight and then I might send that story off for submissions. Of course, a lot of places are on hiatus in the summer, because they are often ran by colleges that are not in session until the fall. But, there are a few places that take summer subs. I guess we'll see how long it takes for me to get back and work out the kinks.
I also sent my friend a story for him to read through and give me some insight and then I might send that story off for submissions. Of course, a lot of places are on hiatus in the summer, because they are often ran by colleges that are not in session until the fall. But, there are a few places that take summer subs. I guess we'll see how long it takes for me to get back and work out the kinks.
Thursday, June 04, 2009
Trying to help
I know I'm suppose to be writing something new right now but I got sidetracked by another project. A friend of mine recently started writing and posted a story about a week or so ago. He asked for feedback and mentioned that everyone seemed to just give him "good job" comments. He was hoping for something a little more helpful. So I read through the story in the few minutes I had to spare over the last few weeks and I found that I actually had a lot of comments that might be helpful. So I circled and scribbled over the pages and figured I'd get it back to him in a timely fashion. I haven't yet though.
My concern is that I'm not very successful in the writing business, so why would anyone take advice from me? Well, I'm an avid reader for one but still. The advice I'm giving I've learned from classes, books, editor comments and fellow writers but I'm trying to find text to prove I'm not just making this stuff up or that it's not just my own personal preference. So now this project is taking a lot longer than I anticipated. My friend will probably have given up on his story or gotten it published by the time I get all my information gathered and thoughts in order.
My concern is that I'm not very successful in the writing business, so why would anyone take advice from me? Well, I'm an avid reader for one but still. The advice I'm giving I've learned from classes, books, editor comments and fellow writers but I'm trying to find text to prove I'm not just making this stuff up or that it's not just my own personal preference. So now this project is taking a lot longer than I anticipated. My friend will probably have given up on his story or gotten it published by the time I get all my information gathered and thoughts in order.
Tuesday, June 02, 2009
Starting a project
Right now I'm in a debate about what to work on next. I could start a story that I've had outlined for a few years or I could work with something I already have.
The first story, I got the idea from a song and shortly after wrote up some story outlines and summaries. I had thought it would be a comic book or movie script, but now I'm thinking I could make it into a novel. It's a horror story, I think. It kind of walks a fine line but I really have no other idea what category I would put it in.
My other option is turning my comic script for Incognito, into a prose story. I'm not sure if I could make a whole book out of it. I wrote it as a comic book script many years ago but was never able to find any success with it being published comic book style. It's a satiric look at female superheroes and it's funny.
Either way, both stories are not literary, which is good, because I'm giving up on that. And no matter what I decide I better do it fast because I need to have something done before writing group next week! Eek!
The first story, I got the idea from a song and shortly after wrote up some story outlines and summaries. I had thought it would be a comic book or movie script, but now I'm thinking I could make it into a novel. It's a horror story, I think. It kind of walks a fine line but I really have no other idea what category I would put it in.
My other option is turning my comic script for Incognito, into a prose story. I'm not sure if I could make a whole book out of it. I wrote it as a comic book script many years ago but was never able to find any success with it being published comic book style. It's a satiric look at female superheroes and it's funny.
Either way, both stories are not literary, which is good, because I'm giving up on that. And no matter what I decide I better do it fast because I need to have something done before writing group next week! Eek!
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Stuff to do
Sorry I missed this week. I had to work 12 hour shifts, which really threw me off schedule. I haven't gotten much done, but I need to do something because writing group is in a little over a week and I have no back up material this time. I need to write something.
NaBloPoMo is doing a write everyday in June event. The theme is to write about a new hero in your life everyday. I'm contemplating doing this but I might do an every other day, bi-weekly or weekly one instead. I'm not sure.
I better get to work!
NaBloPoMo is doing a write everyday in June event. The theme is to write about a new hero in your life everyday. I'm contemplating doing this but I might do an every other day, bi-weekly or weekly one instead. I'm not sure.
I better get to work!
Monday, May 18, 2009
Adapted
Last night I went to see Angels and Demons. I was a little worried because they really changed the end of the Da Vinci Code and I didn't like it. I was happier with Angels and Demons. They did cut out a few things but I felt that two of the scenes they cut out were the things in the book that I thought were just a little too outrageous. Overall, it was a good movie and better than the movie adaption of the Da Vinci Code.
Speaking of books adapted to movies, two of my latest reads are books that were turned into movies, both of which I had seen the movie first.
The first was Memoirs of a Geisha. I really like the movie but I loved the book! The detail to culture was really interesting, but it was woven in with a great plot that kept too many facts from being boring. I was so intrigued and could barely put the book down despite already knowing what was going to happen.
The characters were also really well defined. I think that each ones personality was really well developed, no one was flat. There really wasn't anything that I didn't like about it.
It also defined what a true geisha is. Most people have misconceptions and don't realize the amount of work that went into the art of entertaining. It's an amazing book.
The other book that I read was the Notebook. I did like the movie. I thought it was a good love story. I have to say that this is the first time that I actually liked the movie better than the book. I liked how the movie told the whole story of their relationship not just a few days. I also liked how the movie made Noah's character so desperately in love with her, that he would do anything to have her back and never gave up hope. That may have made the movie a little more cheesy but I think if a girl is going to leave her fiance that she loves, than what she's leaving him for needs to be worth it.
Speaking of books adapted to movies, two of my latest reads are books that were turned into movies, both of which I had seen the movie first.
The first was Memoirs of a Geisha. I really like the movie but I loved the book! The detail to culture was really interesting, but it was woven in with a great plot that kept too many facts from being boring. I was so intrigued and could barely put the book down despite already knowing what was going to happen.
The characters were also really well defined. I think that each ones personality was really well developed, no one was flat. There really wasn't anything that I didn't like about it.
It also defined what a true geisha is. Most people have misconceptions and don't realize the amount of work that went into the art of entertaining. It's an amazing book.
The other book that I read was the Notebook. I did like the movie. I thought it was a good love story. I have to say that this is the first time that I actually liked the movie better than the book. I liked how the movie told the whole story of their relationship not just a few days. I also liked how the movie made Noah's character so desperately in love with her, that he would do anything to have her back and never gave up hope. That may have made the movie a little more cheesy but I think if a girl is going to leave her fiance that she loves, than what she's leaving him for needs to be worth it.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Year Four!
It was D.B.Echo's latest post that got me thinking about it. I knew our dates were relatively close so I thought I'd check. I'm a little late but still, can anyone believe that it was May 10, 2005 that I started this blog?
It doesn't seem like that long. I don't know if I'd count the last year, since I've been pretty absent, but I still feel accomplished knowing that I haven't given up on it.
It doesn't seem like that long. I don't know if I'd count the last year, since I've been pretty absent, but I still feel accomplished knowing that I haven't given up on it.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
A new game plan
I wrote a little last night. It's not really a story more just some thoughts about my current employment situation. It's me venting about the bad things in life. It borderlines on that literary fiction that I said I was done with. I need to be done with all of those stories I wrote while my life was at an all time low. I'm there anymore.
What to do next? Should I edit and send out one of my short fantasy stories that I had intended on submitting until I realized I had lost my latest versions?
I think that's what I'll do, then I need to start a new story. I'm thinking of a novel. It's a story I originally wanted to be a comic book. It's kind of a horror story. Once I get some thoughts down I'll share them.
Right now, I really need an FM transmitter for my iPod. The headphones give me a headache after awhile. Of course, I would also need a computer that's not next to a t.v. that's always in use. I miss my office. Four months and, hopefully, I'll get that back, maybe.
I've started update my livejournal again. If it felt like I've neglected this blog. I've hardly posted there at all, but I miss it.
What to do next? Should I edit and send out one of my short fantasy stories that I had intended on submitting until I realized I had lost my latest versions?
I think that's what I'll do, then I need to start a new story. I'm thinking of a novel. It's a story I originally wanted to be a comic book. It's kind of a horror story. Once I get some thoughts down I'll share them.
Right now, I really need an FM transmitter for my iPod. The headphones give me a headache after awhile. Of course, I would also need a computer that's not next to a t.v. that's always in use. I miss my office. Four months and, hopefully, I'll get that back, maybe.
I've started update my livejournal again. If it felt like I've neglected this blog. I've hardly posted there at all, but I miss it.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Making more work...
Lately, I have been thinking about submissions. I thought I'd send out a few of my finished works while I continue works in progress.
I started venturing through my stories. After several computer crashes I've had stories saved in various places, one main place in particular. I checked there and all my stuff was still as I had left it. Unfortunately, there were a few stories that I had made edits to, after receiving feedback from my writing group. It looks like I didn't resave the files on my back-up after my edits. So more work is lost.
I either need to set up a schedule to save my items on back-up or remember to start saving them once I'm done with them.
The good news is that, when it comes to my writing, I'm a pack rat. I never throw away notes or drafts. So I still have all the notes and input from writing group. It's just a bummer to have to do the work over again.
Sometimes I feel like I'm spinning in circles.
Currently reading: Memoirs of a Geisha
Currently watching: Biggest Loser
Just watched: Star Trek
I started venturing through my stories. After several computer crashes I've had stories saved in various places, one main place in particular. I checked there and all my stuff was still as I had left it. Unfortunately, there were a few stories that I had made edits to, after receiving feedback from my writing group. It looks like I didn't resave the files on my back-up after my edits. So more work is lost.
I either need to set up a schedule to save my items on back-up or remember to start saving them once I'm done with them.
The good news is that, when it comes to my writing, I'm a pack rat. I never throw away notes or drafts. So I still have all the notes and input from writing group. It's just a bummer to have to do the work over again.
Sometimes I feel like I'm spinning in circles.
Currently reading: Memoirs of a Geisha
Currently watching: Biggest Loser
Just watched: Star Trek
Monday, May 04, 2009
Let someone else decide.
I bought the latest issue of Epoch. I actually think it's a bit old but it's the most current. Their new one is probably on the way.
Epoch is a literary magazine for short stories and poetry. One of the few I can actually find at the book store.
The last few weeks I've been thinking a lot about literary fiction, what it is, and if I can write it well.
In the past, I thought I wrote literary fiction like a champ but rejection after rejection got me thinking. So I picked up this magazine and I realized I have no clue what literary fiction is. All the work I had qualified as literary was emotional and usually depressing, with a message in it.
Not that the stories I read in the magazine lacked those elements but they were different. They were vague. They left more for the reader to decide. In the end I had given all of my stories an unhappily ever after ending because that's what I thought literary was, the cold hard truth. Now I'm rethinking this. Maybe literary stories are just suppose to make the reader think and not tell the reader what to think about, but to let them decide for themselves.
Or maybe I'm completely off base.
Either way, I tried to apply this new strategy to what I was working on. I was struggling to find the end of Worth Something. It has two strong characters who have different values. It's almost a new take on the dilemma of whether or not it is right to steal bread for your starving children. One character says 'yes', the other says 'no'. And in the end I couldn't decide which way I wanted the story to lean. I wanted to show both sides of the story evenly. So I just left it hanging and then took it to my writing group. I asked what they thought. And after much discussion I think I'm going to let it end with no conclusion. I'll let the reader decide for themselves.
Epoch is a literary magazine for short stories and poetry. One of the few I can actually find at the book store.
The last few weeks I've been thinking a lot about literary fiction, what it is, and if I can write it well.
In the past, I thought I wrote literary fiction like a champ but rejection after rejection got me thinking. So I picked up this magazine and I realized I have no clue what literary fiction is. All the work I had qualified as literary was emotional and usually depressing, with a message in it.
Not that the stories I read in the magazine lacked those elements but they were different. They were vague. They left more for the reader to decide. In the end I had given all of my stories an unhappily ever after ending because that's what I thought literary was, the cold hard truth. Now I'm rethinking this. Maybe literary stories are just suppose to make the reader think and not tell the reader what to think about, but to let them decide for themselves.
Or maybe I'm completely off base.
Either way, I tried to apply this new strategy to what I was working on. I was struggling to find the end of Worth Something. It has two strong characters who have different values. It's almost a new take on the dilemma of whether or not it is right to steal bread for your starving children. One character says 'yes', the other says 'no'. And in the end I couldn't decide which way I wanted the story to lean. I wanted to show both sides of the story evenly. So I just left it hanging and then took it to my writing group. I asked what they thought. And after much discussion I think I'm going to let it end with no conclusion. I'll let the reader decide for themselves.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Planning ahead
It hit me a few days ago that the month was almost over. How time flies. That means that the first Sunday in May is almost here, which means writing group. So I spent today working on the last part of Worth Something. I have it to a point where it could be the end or I could add a little more and I'm not really sure what to do. Maybe I'll add a little more then ask the writing group where they think it should end.
For the first time in a while I got out the Writer's Market. I know I mentioned a few months back that I think humor might be my thing. It's the only thing that I've had much luck with and I hadn't really gotten anywhere with literary stories, which was mostly what I had been submitting. So I've been trying to find places to send a few of my humorous stories, including the one that started my funny revelation, Secret Identity Crisis.
What I've come to find is that, when it comes to short stories, there are a lot less places for humor than there are for literary stories. Of course, in the past, I found the same problem with action, adventure, fantasy and sci-fi.
I finished the Lord of the Flies, but I read it kind of half-heartedly before bed every night. And I feel like a bad reader/writer because I didn't catch the big flaw that D.B. Echo mentioned.
Now I'm on to Bone Crossed, the fourth book in the Mercy Thomas series, by Patricia Briggs. I'm actually almost done. I'll probably finish it tonight.
Just watched: Marley and Me (again)
Currently watching: Reno! 911
For the first time in a while I got out the Writer's Market. I know I mentioned a few months back that I think humor might be my thing. It's the only thing that I've had much luck with and I hadn't really gotten anywhere with literary stories, which was mostly what I had been submitting. So I've been trying to find places to send a few of my humorous stories, including the one that started my funny revelation, Secret Identity Crisis.
What I've come to find is that, when it comes to short stories, there are a lot less places for humor than there are for literary stories. Of course, in the past, I found the same problem with action, adventure, fantasy and sci-fi.
I finished the Lord of the Flies, but I read it kind of half-heartedly before bed every night. And I feel like a bad reader/writer because I didn't catch the big flaw that D.B. Echo mentioned.
Now I'm on to Bone Crossed, the fourth book in the Mercy Thomas series, by Patricia Briggs. I'm actually almost done. I'll probably finish it tonight.
Just watched: Marley and Me (again)
Currently watching: Reno! 911
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Bands and books
I started my short story that I mentioned in the last post. I think I'm going to call it Helping Hand, so that's how I'll I refer to it for now. I have really gotten much done but the day is young.
Last Thursday I went to see a band called Brena and they were awesome. They have a very cool mainstream rock style going on. I liked them so much that I just uploaded their new album on my iPod.
Yes, that's right. I now have an iPod. After years of saying that I want one, but not buying one for various reasons, an iPod nano has managed to fall into my hands. So now I can create all kinds of awesome playlists for all my writing endeavors.
I started reading Lord of the Flies and I just bought the 38 Most Common Fiction Writing Mistakes. Both are pretty short books. I like to envision me having them both done by the end of the week, but I hate to get ahead of myself.
Last Thursday I went to see a band called Brena and they were awesome. They have a very cool mainstream rock style going on. I liked them so much that I just uploaded their new album on my iPod.
Yes, that's right. I now have an iPod. After years of saying that I want one, but not buying one for various reasons, an iPod nano has managed to fall into my hands. So now I can create all kinds of awesome playlists for all my writing endeavors.
I started reading Lord of the Flies and I just bought the 38 Most Common Fiction Writing Mistakes. Both are pretty short books. I like to envision me having them both done by the end of the week, but I hate to get ahead of myself.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Birthdays, holidays, musicals, books and jury duty and it's only Wednesday!
Well this week has been pretty hectic. It started with Easter, which was also my birthday. Yes, I am another year older. And I will spare everyone my melodramatic look back at my accomplishments or the lack there of. I will also not venture to far out to say "this will be my year," because I think I've just been jinxing myself.
After that, I had jury duty. I did get picked for a trial but then I was dismissed after the lawyers questioned me. It was an interesting experience. Some of the things that the lawyers think to ask potential jurors just amazes me. That's probably why they make the big bucks. The experience definitely gave me some insight in case I'm ever writing about a trial.
Yesterday, I went to see the Lion King. The tickets were a birthday present and I was very excited. It was a fantastic performance. The kids that played Simba and Nala were very cute and talented. The dialogue and music pretty much followed the movie. There were also some new songs. A few of the new songs like "The Morning Report" and "Chow Down", were a little cheesy and seemed like they were in the show just because they needed more musical numbers. Other songs like "Endless Night," were a beautiful addition. There was also a lot of added African dancing and music, which really added to the show making it less like a Disney cartoon and more like a work of art. The costumes and the set design were amazing. There was literally far too much to take in. Every thing was so colorful and lively, I didn't know where to look. I would love to see it again.
And the only other thing is that I finished reading the Historian. I was real bummed out with the ending. When you're going to battle Dracula, also known as Vlad the Impaler, that battle better be grueling and it better take more than one gun shot to take him down. Sorry if I ruined it for anyone but if this is a book someone was going to invest time into reading, they may want to be prepared for the fact that the book is all about history and not suspense and action-filled battles.
Now, what to read next? Also, I have the day off tomorrow. I'd like to start a new short story about dealing with a bad work environment. I have an idea, obviously. I'll try to elaborate more once I have something actually written.
After that, I had jury duty. I did get picked for a trial but then I was dismissed after the lawyers questioned me. It was an interesting experience. Some of the things that the lawyers think to ask potential jurors just amazes me. That's probably why they make the big bucks. The experience definitely gave me some insight in case I'm ever writing about a trial.
Yesterday, I went to see the Lion King. The tickets were a birthday present and I was very excited. It was a fantastic performance. The kids that played Simba and Nala were very cute and talented. The dialogue and music pretty much followed the movie. There were also some new songs. A few of the new songs like "The Morning Report" and "Chow Down", were a little cheesy and seemed like they were in the show just because they needed more musical numbers. Other songs like "Endless Night," were a beautiful addition. There was also a lot of added African dancing and music, which really added to the show making it less like a Disney cartoon and more like a work of art. The costumes and the set design were amazing. There was literally far too much to take in. Every thing was so colorful and lively, I didn't know where to look. I would love to see it again.
And the only other thing is that I finished reading the Historian. I was real bummed out with the ending. When you're going to battle Dracula, also known as Vlad the Impaler, that battle better be grueling and it better take more than one gun shot to take him down. Sorry if I ruined it for anyone but if this is a book someone was going to invest time into reading, they may want to be prepared for the fact that the book is all about history and not suspense and action-filled battles.
Now, what to read next? Also, I have the day off tomorrow. I'd like to start a new short story about dealing with a bad work environment. I have an idea, obviously. I'll try to elaborate more once I have something actually written.
Wednesday, April 08, 2009
The latest reading list
A few weeks ago I finally finished reading the eleven books that have, so far, made up the Harry Dresden Files by Jim Butcher. Although, I believe a new book has or will come out in April. The books weren't necessarily intellectual reading but they were fun and they read pretty quickly. They're about a modern day wizard, living in modern day Chicago, who is the only wizard listed in the phone book. During the series he runs into all kinds of supernatural beings such as vampires, werewolves, fairies, ghost, fallen angels, demons, and he has lots of really interesting friends to help him. I enjoyed the series for some light and entertaining reading.
After that, I received the new David Sedaris book, When You Are Engulfed In Flames, for Valentine's Day. It was funny and I did enjoy it but I feel like he has less interesting things to say now that he's a wealthy, famous writer rather than a poor, struggling writer. Maybe it also had something to do with the fact that this book mentioned his family significantly less than his others. His unique family was definitely something that really made his early books funny. I still laughed with this one but not as much as I have with his previous works.
Right now I'm reading the Historian by Elizabeth Kostova. I really didn't plan on reading this book but it came to me in a weird way. I had given somebody one of my book club chain letters that Jenni dragged me into, and that person was suppose to send a book to Jenni. However, he didn't really feel that he would be able to handle the task of mailing it. (The post office can be complicated.) So he asked me to give it to her...four months ago. Well, I have seen her twice since then but I have forgotten the book. Then I started reading it.
Anyway, it's a long book, well over 600 pages. The idea is cool. A group of historians search for proof that Vlad the Impaler is the real Dracula and that he is still living an undead existence as a vampire. Of course, the book can move slowly. They cover a lot of history and geography. There is a ton of detail. At times it reads more like non-fiction, full of facts, and the story tying it all together seems to just fall in every now and again. I'm just now in the 400s after two weeks of reading. It's not one of those books that I just can't put down. I usually fall asleep after a chapter or so if I'm reading before bed. So far I don't feel emotionally connected to any of the characters. I could really care less what happens to them I just want to get to the end and find out what the plot twist is because there must be one. Also, I'm not a person who can quit a book. I have to finish. The book is intriguing sometimes but most of the time I feel like I'm studying. Maybe the last 200 pages will pick up a bit.
After that, I received the new David Sedaris book, When You Are Engulfed In Flames, for Valentine's Day. It was funny and I did enjoy it but I feel like he has less interesting things to say now that he's a wealthy, famous writer rather than a poor, struggling writer. Maybe it also had something to do with the fact that this book mentioned his family significantly less than his others. His unique family was definitely something that really made his early books funny. I still laughed with this one but not as much as I have with his previous works.
Right now I'm reading the Historian by Elizabeth Kostova. I really didn't plan on reading this book but it came to me in a weird way. I had given somebody one of my book club chain letters that Jenni dragged me into, and that person was suppose to send a book to Jenni. However, he didn't really feel that he would be able to handle the task of mailing it. (The post office can be complicated.) So he asked me to give it to her...four months ago. Well, I have seen her twice since then but I have forgotten the book. Then I started reading it.
Anyway, it's a long book, well over 600 pages. The idea is cool. A group of historians search for proof that Vlad the Impaler is the real Dracula and that he is still living an undead existence as a vampire. Of course, the book can move slowly. They cover a lot of history and geography. There is a ton of detail. At times it reads more like non-fiction, full of facts, and the story tying it all together seems to just fall in every now and again. I'm just now in the 400s after two weeks of reading. It's not one of those books that I just can't put down. I usually fall asleep after a chapter or so if I'm reading before bed. So far I don't feel emotionally connected to any of the characters. I could really care less what happens to them I just want to get to the end and find out what the plot twist is because there must be one. Also, I'm not a person who can quit a book. I have to finish. The book is intriguing sometimes but most of the time I feel like I'm studying. Maybe the last 200 pages will pick up a bit.
Saturday, April 04, 2009
Finally, something to write about
Okay, I'm back to work. I've spent this week writing an article about resale shops. Of course, I've been through a few computers lately, and I'm typing on a new one (well new to me) right now. And because I forgot to e-mail it to myself, that article is now saved on a computer that is not hooked up. So I would have to unhook this monitor, mouse and keyboard, hook them back up to the other computer and then undo all of that just to get the article. How's that for complicated?
I finished typing in part three of my short story Worth Something. I have writing group tomorrow right after work so I need to get my other group members' work read and make some comments. Eventually, I'll have to finish the end of the story and type it up for next month. After that I'll need to have started a new piece of fiction or else I'll have nothing to take.
It feels good to be writing again. I didn't realize how much I missed the release and the feeling of accomplishment. I don't know how I ever stopped.
I finished typing in part three of my short story Worth Something. I have writing group tomorrow right after work so I need to get my other group members' work read and make some comments. Eventually, I'll have to finish the end of the story and type it up for next month. After that I'll need to have started a new piece of fiction or else I'll have nothing to take.
It feels good to be writing again. I didn't realize how much I missed the release and the feeling of accomplishment. I don't know how I ever stopped.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Since last year...
Sometimes, especially when I haven't written in a long time, I like to reflect back on my other posts. Some feel like just filler, others really mean something to me. Here's a post from last year, reflecting on what I had or hadn't accomplished in life. Since then not much has changed as far as accomplishments go. I've had some losses in the last year but I've also gained. Right now I feel like I'm breaking even.
I'm pretty sure I've mentioned once or twice that my senior year of high school I took advance composition. As a writer, aspiring to be published, one would assume that I loved this class above all others and put every bit of effort into it. That would be not so accurate.I did love the class, but it was a lot of work and at the time I thought I had better things to do with my last hour of the school day. I failed the class, but I didn't need it to graduate so oh well. Not really. I failed a few classes in high school, for instance algebra, physics, geometry, all mostly for a lack of attendance. I thought living was more import than learning and when it comes to those classes, for the most part, I have no regrets. Failing advance comp was the only time I really felt bad about failing. The teacher was an odd guy, not your usual teacher, but a great teacher. He wanted to make sure we could write a solid essay before we took off for college, he wanted to make sure we read good literature that wasn't the main stream stuff we we're use to and he pushed us to be creative. I think I've mentioned a play that I wrote for his class.Anyway, he actually wanted us to learn something. Even though I failed, I still learned a lot. I even keep the journal that we had to write in every week filled with the positive comments that he wrote about my work, about my writing. And I kick myself for not finishing that class.What brought all of this to mind was when he walked into the shoe store today and even though I should have taken it as the chance to apologize for giving up, and told him that I regretted not finishing and that he was still a really good teacher that taught me something regardless of my grade. That's not what I did though, I hid. I hid because I didn't want him to see me selling shoes. It's been nearly seven years since I graduated and I had nothing to say but I sell shoes. And I couldn't face it.I felt like a huge let down to everyone, including myself. And I know I'm the one to blame for what my life is. I need to work harder so if there's ever a next time I will have something worth saying.
I'm pretty sure I've mentioned once or twice that my senior year of high school I took advance composition. As a writer, aspiring to be published, one would assume that I loved this class above all others and put every bit of effort into it. That would be not so accurate.I did love the class, but it was a lot of work and at the time I thought I had better things to do with my last hour of the school day. I failed the class, but I didn't need it to graduate so oh well. Not really. I failed a few classes in high school, for instance algebra, physics, geometry, all mostly for a lack of attendance. I thought living was more import than learning and when it comes to those classes, for the most part, I have no regrets. Failing advance comp was the only time I really felt bad about failing. The teacher was an odd guy, not your usual teacher, but a great teacher. He wanted to make sure we could write a solid essay before we took off for college, he wanted to make sure we read good literature that wasn't the main stream stuff we we're use to and he pushed us to be creative. I think I've mentioned a play that I wrote for his class.Anyway, he actually wanted us to learn something. Even though I failed, I still learned a lot. I even keep the journal that we had to write in every week filled with the positive comments that he wrote about my work, about my writing. And I kick myself for not finishing that class.What brought all of this to mind was when he walked into the shoe store today and even though I should have taken it as the chance to apologize for giving up, and told him that I regretted not finishing and that he was still a really good teacher that taught me something regardless of my grade. That's not what I did though, I hid. I hid because I didn't want him to see me selling shoes. It's been nearly seven years since I graduated and I had nothing to say but I sell shoes. And I couldn't face it.I felt like a huge let down to everyone, including myself. And I know I'm the one to blame for what my life is. I need to work harder so if there's ever a next time I will have something worth saying.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Starting again
Thank you to everyone for all their kindness these last months. I know I haven't been a very good blog friend lately but it's nice to know that a few of you are still with me.
I thought I'd give a little update on things in my life that I haven't posted about the last few months.
First off, I had another computer melt down. My computer stopped working. I'm working on getting it repaired and working on a borrowed computer right now. We'll see how that works out.
Last week I met with writing group. We usually meet the first Sunday of the month but I had to postpone due to everything going and my group members were awesome enough to reschedule. I have been taking parts of my short story, Worth Something, which is my story about the value of money and what it means to different people.
Jenni and I went to see RENT again. She got me tickets for Christmas and it was a nice chance to get away from the chaos. I got to see Jenni and my favorite musical. It's a great message of measuring your life in love and living like every moment is your last. It was what I needed.
Work has been madness. I'm really unhappy there. Combine that with a recent viewing of RENT and I can say that all I've wanted to do is quit my job and write. I haven't yet but I am looking into options. I'm not sure how much longer my employment will last, whether it's by my choice or someone else's.
That's about it. I've listed some books, watched some movies, read some books, even wrote some stuff (most of it journal entries). So I have a lot to post about. And I will. If I ever want to get out of this mess and doing what makes me happy, I have to start working hard.
I thought I'd give a little update on things in my life that I haven't posted about the last few months.
First off, I had another computer melt down. My computer stopped working. I'm working on getting it repaired and working on a borrowed computer right now. We'll see how that works out.
Last week I met with writing group. We usually meet the first Sunday of the month but I had to postpone due to everything going and my group members were awesome enough to reschedule. I have been taking parts of my short story, Worth Something, which is my story about the value of money and what it means to different people.
Jenni and I went to see RENT again. She got me tickets for Christmas and it was a nice chance to get away from the chaos. I got to see Jenni and my favorite musical. It's a great message of measuring your life in love and living like every moment is your last. It was what I needed.
Work has been madness. I'm really unhappy there. Combine that with a recent viewing of RENT and I can say that all I've wanted to do is quit my job and write. I haven't yet but I am looking into options. I'm not sure how much longer my employment will last, whether it's by my choice or someone else's.
That's about it. I've listed some books, watched some movies, read some books, even wrote some stuff (most of it journal entries). So I have a lot to post about. And I will. If I ever want to get out of this mess and doing what makes me happy, I have to start working hard.
Monday, March 02, 2009
It's been over a month since I posted. And the last thing I posted was that my dog, Darlington, passed away. Two days later my grandmother went into the hospital for the third time in two months. After three weeks there was nothing more they could do for her. Last week I said goodbye to the woman that raised me, and my best friend.
It's hard not seeing her or talking to her everyday. There have been a lot of good things and bad things in my life lately. I'd give anything to talk to her about it. She always seemed to know the right thing to do.
So I'm a little lost right now. I can't really promise that I'll try to write more now that I'm not spending all my spare time in the hospital. But I am here and thank you to all of you who have been sticking with me.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Unfortunately, not yet
I was ten minutes away from sitting down and telling you all the good news. My grandma was out of the hospital and on the road to recovery. Not to mention that the huge project that I needed to get done before the 31st was finished today. So there would be nothing stopping me from blogging all the time.
Sadly, right before I sat in my computer chair and booted up, the phone rang. Back to the hospital I went. And as if our family didn't have enough to deal with, Darlington, my childhood dog, is not doing so well. I think we're getting into the final hours. Between it all I am drained but still here. And I will be back on a regular basis soon.
Sadly, right before I sat in my computer chair and booted up, the phone rang. Back to the hospital I went. And as if our family didn't have enough to deal with, Darlington, my childhood dog, is not doing so well. I think we're getting into the final hours. Between it all I am drained but still here. And I will be back on a regular basis soon.
Monday, January 12, 2009
We interrupt this blog...
Okay, I know I'm suppose to be posting more and I know I've had a lot of excuses but I swear I have good reason.
I've had a family member in the hospital. There was a simple surgery that wasn't necessarily simple, but everything turned out okay. Hopefully, they'll be out of the hospital soon and start working on their long and difficult recovery. Until then, I've been at, and will be at, the hospital.
Another thing going on is that I'm making a pretty big change in my personal life. It's an exciting change, that among many positive results, should allow me to spend more time at home, thus giving me more time to write blog posts and fiction.
This isn't something I can fall behind on either. It has to be done by the 31st. No excuses. And I had this whole schedule on how to get it all done by then. That plan went out the window the minute I headed out to the emergency room. So I'm trying to balance both things right now.
It's not leaving me any free time but by the end of January, I should have things together.
If that's possible.
I've had a family member in the hospital. There was a simple surgery that wasn't necessarily simple, but everything turned out okay. Hopefully, they'll be out of the hospital soon and start working on their long and difficult recovery. Until then, I've been at, and will be at, the hospital.
Another thing going on is that I'm making a pretty big change in my personal life. It's an exciting change, that among many positive results, should allow me to spend more time at home, thus giving me more time to write blog posts and fiction.
This isn't something I can fall behind on either. It has to be done by the 31st. No excuses. And I had this whole schedule on how to get it all done by then. That plan went out the window the minute I headed out to the emergency room. So I'm trying to balance both things right now.
It's not leaving me any free time but by the end of January, I should have things together.
If that's possible.
Sunday, January 04, 2009
What I should have sent to writer's group.
Yesterday, I realized that I had writing group this weekend and I had nothing to send. I took a section of my super long story because it was basically all I had. Of course, it was a chunk right from the middle so it didn't really make a lot of sense. And I hadn't written anything new so I hurried to type up another section that I had originally written long hand due to the lack of computer.
Everyone seemed to like my extremely passive and indecisive character. There weren't really a lot of notes about the story it's self since I've only sent two sections of a very long story and they were out of order.
Hopefully, I'll have something better for the next meeting. I'm not really sure that I was ready to have that story read by others. It's still incomplete. Although, it is nice to know that it's not off to a bad start.
I just now realized that I could have sent Worth Something, since it's practically done. The rear view mirror is always cleaner than the windshield, I guess.
Everyone seemed to like my extremely passive and indecisive character. There weren't really a lot of notes about the story it's self since I've only sent two sections of a very long story and they were out of order.
Hopefully, I'll have something better for the next meeting. I'm not really sure that I was ready to have that story read by others. It's still incomplete. Although, it is nice to know that it's not off to a bad start.
I just now realized that I could have sent Worth Something, since it's practically done. The rear view mirror is always cleaner than the windshield, I guess.
Friday, January 02, 2009
50 in '08!
I did it! I finally did it. I read 50 books in a year! Here are the books I read in 2008.
1. Wizard's First Rule by Terry Goodkind
2. The Stone of Tears by Terry Goodkind
3. The Blood of the Fold by Terry Goodkind
4. Temple of the Winds by Terry Goodkind
5. Soul of Fire by Terry Goodkind
6. Faith of the Fallen by Terry Goodkind
7. Pillars of Creation by Terry Goodkind
8. Naked Empire by Terry Goodkind
9. Chainfire by Terry Goodkind
10. Phantom by Terry Goodkind
11. Confessor by Terry Goodkind
12. The 36 Hour Day by Nancy Mace and Peter Rabins
13. Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder
14. Magic Study by Maria V. Snyder
15. Fire Study by Maria V. Snyder
16. The Golden Notebook by Doris Letting
17. My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Piccoult
18. The Hobbit by JRR Tolkien
19. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring by JRR Tolkien
20. Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers by JRR Tolkien
21. Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King by JRR Tolkien
22. Wicked by Geoffrey Maguire
23. The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield
24. He's Just Not That Into You by Greg Behren
25. Moon Called by Patricia Briggs
26. Blood Bound by Patricia Briggs
27. Iron Kissed by Patricia Briggs
28. Blood Is the New Black by Valerie Stivers
29. Atonement by Ian McEwan
30. Odd Thomas by Dean Koontz
31. Forever Odd by Dean Koontz
32. Brother Odd by Dean Koontz
33. The Odd Hours by Dean Koontz
34. Twilight by Stephenie Meyerr
35. New Moon by Stephenie Meyer
36. Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer
37. Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer
38. Cravings by Laurell K. Hamilton, Mary Janice Davidson, Eileen Wilks and Rebecca York
39. Four Past Midnight by Stephen King
40. Everything's Eventual by Stephen King
41. Gates of Eden by Ethan Cohen
42. Heart-Shaped Box by Joe Hill
43. 20th Century Ghost Story by Joe Hill
44. Storm Front by Jim Butcher
45. Fool Moon by Jim Butcher
46. Grave Peril by Jim Butcher
47. Summer Knight by Jim Butcher
48. Death Masks by Jim Butcher
49. Holidays on Ice by Dave Sedaris
50. The Tales of Beetle the Bard by J.K. Rowling
1. Wizard's First Rule by Terry Goodkind
2. The Stone of Tears by Terry Goodkind
3. The Blood of the Fold by Terry Goodkind
4. Temple of the Winds by Terry Goodkind
5. Soul of Fire by Terry Goodkind
6. Faith of the Fallen by Terry Goodkind
7. Pillars of Creation by Terry Goodkind
8. Naked Empire by Terry Goodkind
9. Chainfire by Terry Goodkind
10. Phantom by Terry Goodkind
11. Confessor by Terry Goodkind
12. The 36 Hour Day by Nancy Mace and Peter Rabins
13. Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder
14. Magic Study by Maria V. Snyder
15. Fire Study by Maria V. Snyder
16. The Golden Notebook by Doris Letting
17. My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Piccoult
18. The Hobbit by JRR Tolkien
19. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring by JRR Tolkien
20. Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers by JRR Tolkien
21. Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King by JRR Tolkien
22. Wicked by Geoffrey Maguire
23. The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield
24. He's Just Not That Into You by Greg Behren
25. Moon Called by Patricia Briggs
26. Blood Bound by Patricia Briggs
27. Iron Kissed by Patricia Briggs
28. Blood Is the New Black by Valerie Stivers
29. Atonement by Ian McEwan
30. Odd Thomas by Dean Koontz
31. Forever Odd by Dean Koontz
32. Brother Odd by Dean Koontz
33. The Odd Hours by Dean Koontz
34. Twilight by Stephenie Meyerr
35. New Moon by Stephenie Meyer
36. Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer
37. Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer
38. Cravings by Laurell K. Hamilton, Mary Janice Davidson, Eileen Wilks and Rebecca York
39. Four Past Midnight by Stephen King
40. Everything's Eventual by Stephen King
41. Gates of Eden by Ethan Cohen
42. Heart-Shaped Box by Joe Hill
43. 20th Century Ghost Story by Joe Hill
44. Storm Front by Jim Butcher
45. Fool Moon by Jim Butcher
46. Grave Peril by Jim Butcher
47. Summer Knight by Jim Butcher
48. Death Masks by Jim Butcher
49. Holidays on Ice by Dave Sedaris
50. The Tales of Beetle the Bard by J.K. Rowling
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