Thursday, August 31, 2006

Short Story ready for Submission

I think Saturday I will purchase the new Writer's market, and I will start looking for literary magazines to submit my story too. I feel like dusting the other stories as well, and reaching for some publishers. off as well.

Where's My Wallet

Last night, in an effort to organize myself, I got a lot of junk off the floor and either in the garbage, or in a box for later examination. What I also did was put up my wallet. I took so much time this morning trying to backtrack my steps and realizing that my wallet was in my bookbag.

Its been raingin all day, and there was an accident, and I had to find a good meter to park at, which is a few block away from my job, which irritates the hell outta me. I'm mildly irritated, but I will survive.

Wednesday, August 30, 2006

Progress

Since I am done with chapter 4 of the mini series (the furtherest I have ever taken a multi-part story), I am happy to say soon I will complete the last chapter. To make a long story short, Chapter 1 is actually parts one and two. I would literally overflow if I went past chapter five.

After the first drafts are done with the end of chapter five, I can go back, add and revise as needed.

Tuesday, August 29, 2006

The Pages Are Done!!!

Whooo-hooo. The short story is completed. Cari finished the artwork. I hope to have a publishing date to annonce soon.

Monday, August 28, 2006

I Broke My Internet...

I will be back soon...

I am learning to "fix" it.

I am still writing, and I have finished chapter four of my script.

Tuesday, August 22, 2006

The Heat

I am feeling the negative effects of the heat. Nausea, sweating, cant cool down for hours, and some confusion. I made sure to drink more water, and less soda.

Saturday, August 19, 2006

Adventures in Cooking

Last night I marinated some steaks, which I am cooking now. I have tried several bottled marinades before, but none of them seem to be absorbed by the meat. They were more like a spicy steak sauce. I always did my marinades overnight, as to let the flavors have time to, well, marinate. Needless to say I wasted my money with the bottled, which is a disappointment. I was looking forward to the Cajun flavor.

I did find time to make my own marinade. It’s pretty simple, and the flavor is absorbed in the meat, even if I cook the steaks four hours later from the point I seasoned them. Here is what I do: I use pepper, garlic, Italian seasoning (marjoram, thyme, rosemary, sage, oregano, & basil), and olive oil. Somehow I get a steak that tastes like I seasoned it. I like my steaks well done, and they are tender, and not chewy or rough. P.S. I add salt right before I cook them. People told me that salt would dry out the meat if you placed it on during the marinade process.

Made some sautéed vegetables for the steak, and for the baked potatoes I will be making later on. I am so upset. I thought one bag of sliced portabellas was enough. I should have just got the six ‘shrooms in a package and sliced them myself. I had bell peppers (red, green, and yellow), onions (red [sweet], and yellow [more potent]), and the ‘shrooms. They are great toppings for my steaks, and my potatoes (potatoes can get sour cream, shredded cheese, butter, and bacon). Also, I add a little salt to the veggies while sautéing them (draws the moisture out), and a little cayenne pepper to give the veggies a kung-fu kick. Not too much pepper, I want to enjoy the meal without pain. I also want to stress that I don’t like to cook the veggies too long. I hate when they lose their crunch.

To add another vegetable to the plate as a side dish, I prefer broccoli. I do love a green vegetable as the side as opposed to corn. I also like broccoli better than string beans or peas. Atypically I will either use cheese to top it, or butter for flavoring. I don’t add much seasoning. Maybe a little salt or pepper. I usually like to taste the cheese or butter flavor. I may start adding the broccoli to the potatoes.

Sometimes I can eat the potato minus the steak, and have done so many times before. Also, I have substituted imitation bacon bits for the real thing several times. I love the bacon flavor.

As far as the drink of choice, the southerner in me prefers sweat tea with lemon, and crushed ice. Crush ice rocks, and lemon sets the tea taste off perfectly. Steak nights are usually my best nights as I can savor the flavors of the food, and be filled. I never go hungry on steak night.

Long Term Thinking and Resisting Temptation

Today I resisted the urge to spend, and I am very proud of myself for this. I needed to replace my black in cartridge for my printer. I said I would go to Best Buy today and purchase it. No big deal, eh? Well I saw Resident Evil 4 for the Game Cube for $19.99. Then I saw some blank (writable) DVD’s for $19.99. Two movies I have been pinning for were on display as well. I wanted them all. I did rationalize in my head that it wouldn’t cost too much. Maybe one of the things I wanted extra could follow me to the cashier’s counter. The ink cartridge was $19.99 itself. I walked back to the Resident Evil 4 and tempted myself so bad. I picked it up, and read the back of the case. I so wanted that game.

There is a new game I want, but it comes out next month. I have been waiting for time for that game to be released. I made myself put RE4 down, and promised myself if I curb my spending, next month will be better for purchasing, which is true. Also I wanted to make some other purchases. The New Writer's Market comes out next month, and what about the clothes I wanted to buy? Temptation subsided. I can't argue with my logic, since I hadn’t paid my cable or electric bill for the month yet, and I needed that handled before I decided I was entitled to an impulse shopping moment.

When I got home I paid my bills. There was no sense in waiting. Its not like I don’t use cable and electricity religiously. Ironically, I turned the TV of and began cleaning up my place. There is nothing like a clean kitchen or bathroom. I'm getting a work out here. I did some vacuuming (I so wanted to get that hallway. I need to pull out the extensions to get the corners. How does dust get there? i walk in the center of the hall?

Now I don’t have to worry about my printer losing ink at a critical moment. Ever had that feeling the latest page you print was your last? All I can tell you is I liken the dread to the last bite of chocolate cake, the last spoonful of ice cream in your cup, or the last twenty in my wallet you know you’re about to use. You have a good wait before you get back to another piece, spoonful, or payday.

If I can, I will have a treat. It should be under $5.00; maybe some ice cream, or a latte, as I will be cutting those out for a while, again.

I hadn’t done much writing yet. I need to write more of my projects. I so need a list of everything. I will add it to my PDA, so I can get more mileage out of using it. I get mileage out of the calendar mode, which I add stuff to all the time.

Stacy's Yesterday

Yesterday was a busy day. I got up extra early so I could take my car to be service. My wheel needed to be aligned so bad, and I said the moment I had the opportunity, I am going to do it, and I did. What I was afraid of was the technician saying to me, “you need more work done.” Last time I had my car serviced, I spent too much money. I almost cried when I left the garage, as I had money to gas the ride, and buy some groceries.

Did my grocery shopping and I got me the necessary stuff. I need to cook today, as I know I don’t like to do it on weekdays.

Paid a few bills. I have a couple more to go, but I love for the ones I have to be cleared at the bank.

Friday, August 18, 2006

What You Hear Is Not a Test

I’m feeling kinetic right now. That is to say my mind is working on some ideas. I am brainstorming, and writing. I need to make something for dinner. I thought about steak and baked potatoes again. I could. Thought about pizza. Pizza sounds great. I think I have a winner.

Its either that or Chinese again. Hadn’t had pizza in a while.

Thursday, August 17, 2006

Don't Ask Me...

I am writing this next entry and placing a disclaimer: I am not writing this as an attack on anyone. I feel as a writer though, it is fair grounds for me to open my mouth and start writing as the situations that impact me are at best the personal ones. If my writing is perceived as a personal attack, please feel free to post a comment and assert the validity of your claim.

Often friends asked me on why do I think certain things happen in relationships. I have no valid answers, only guesses as to why. One thing I do want to tell the people who ask so often, is to listen to their mate. What does he/she say when things are going smooth. What are they doing, when they have free time?

Can you accept what’s going on, or are you going to put up a smoke screen so you don’t see the shit.

Case in point, an old friend was in love with someone who was not available (married). He was willing to wait until said person was free. All the while the married one was in a loving relationship. What didn’t he ask himself, but asked me is, “how can someone be in love with two people at one time?” My response was, “don’t ask me, ask your mate.” Ask yourself why you put up with waiting for someone who is in love with someone else. Why is it acceptable to place yourself on the line when you’re taking all the risk?

Wednesday, August 16, 2006

Too Proper To Be Black?

I had a lady tell me today that I sound too proper when I speak. "Too proper?" Literally translated "I sound too proper for a black man." What the fuck does that mean? I should have know by the way she was watching, and wouldn't leave the desk that she was interested in me.

I am a graduate student and I am a library assitant. I wondered if I should I sound more slangy with the broken southern english (ebonics)? My roots are Charleston, SC , and people have often ridiculed Charlestonians for speaking with poor dialect. I told her she was dealing with a differnt type of brother. She thought I meant gay.

***So I snapped my fingers at her, twisted my neck, narrowed my eyes and told her, "Oh no you didn't..." (ok this sentence is a lie, but funny.)***

So, only gay men of color speak with formal diction and sound "white," right? She was trying to guage my reaction. She said I was sharp and smart, but I didn't go all flaming when I spoke to her, so she wasn't sure if I was gay or not. I lost interest in the conversation. I thought about it and had a laugh.

Ever listen to someone before becoming "engaged" in further conversations? We were going nowhere fast. I'm sure we'll bump into each other again. I am also sure she will fish for more information when she does come around. I think a woman with a limited scope of ethnicity is a dead end prospect for a relationship before anything jumps off.

Tuesday, August 15, 2006

Editing

Working on some writing.

Guiltless Pleasure

Having chocolate, chocolate chip ice cream today. Yes, I bout some Lactaid, and am eating milk products. Noticed vanilla is immune to Lactaid. Damn that flavor, it sent my stomach in a damn tailspin last time.

Getting ready to start chapter four of my comic. I am very excited, as chapter three is my favorite for before mentioned reasons. Had a strange dream that reminds me that I may be going though a new journey. Writing takes me so there.

Sunday, August 13, 2006

Masochistically in Love

I noticed an important difference between some of my friends and myself. Some my friends are masochistically in love with the chaos and drama of unhealthy relationships. It’s a dangerous game, to trifle in the affairs of the heart. It’s a rollercoaster minus a few tracks at its highest peak. It scares me to think that chaos is what some friends equate to love. What I learned about myself is that I love the simple things in life. I love to relax on my weekends. After a week of work, all I want to do is unwind, make me a good dinner, and get my personal projects done. It is a beautiful experience to enjoy a day of peace and fulfillment.

I am worried by some of my friends’ choices. Their ill regard for their own well-being leads them spiraling off their roller coaster and crashing into reality. I have had many long conversations with people who don’t have a clue as to what’s gone wrong in their relationships. That lack of ownership and boundaries leave me exhausted after a call. After getting truckloads of drama dumped in my lap, I ask myself, “What’s wrong with my friends?” Maybe I should be asking myself, “What’s wrong with me?”

When I get a drama call, it’s not always easy, but I listen. I hear so many endless complaints and suffering, that I find my world hijacked and placed on the roller coaster with my friends. I feel like I spiraling into a messy situation, and I am desperately trying to get off.

I hear a lot more than just drama in friends’ stories. There is a lot of hurt and pain too. People are heading down dark roads. Sometimes, I think before they hit the dark roads, they stumble upon me. They see me content and happy, and lean on me for support. Sometimes I think they are clawing at me, ready to pull me down with them. Rarely do I hear people owning up to the choices they’ve made.

Now that I have the drama, it colors my world with chaos. I notice I’m feeling down. My modest ideals don’t soothe me. Like they once did. Feelings of gloom linger about, and I can’t focus on my projects proper. I was robbed of my happiness, and I am taking it back back. Friend or no friend, only I can save myself from the troubles that plague me. It is time for me to become proactive and preserve my tranquility before lose any more time wallowing in the pain.

I have a plan to save myself from this borrowed pain. I am very sorry that people are hurting, but hell, if I want my piece of mind, I’ve got to cut the chaos loose. I don’t want to hurt or offend my friends, but if I am to progress in my own pursuit of happiness, then I must turn friends away. From now on, I am going to let people know how they affected me. If people don’t understand my position, then as hard as it is, I am willing to let them go as a friend. I am accountable for all of my actions. Whether my friends want to own up to their for the choices they’ve made is strictly up to them.

Saturday, August 12, 2006

Writing Fool IIIX

My goodness steak and potatoes is heavy. Tomorrow is salad, I think. LOL

Been working on the latest chapter, but then I wrote something that gave one of the main characters some real heartbreak. I didn’t realize this, but I felt that pain too. I was like that’s really hurtful. I completed it, but I had to put the story down for a while. I’m like OMG that’s emotional. I do realize that characters will have to go through pains in order to overcome adversity. Otherwise I’d be writing Care Bears where all things are soft and cuddly sweet.

For the record, I am proud of this scene, I wasn’t prepared for it myself, but I think I’ve made a writing breakthrough when I empathize beyond the I hope he/she wins. That loss the character felt was important for the story or readers may not feel for the characters either. It makes me a better writer.

Happy Anniversary Beatty

Beatty's getting mad praise this week-end.

Today is your anniversary, and I am very happy for you. Enjoy.

I did a lot of writing last night. I don't like the ending of the chapter, so I have a few pages to rework today. Maybe I need to relax, have sometyhing to eat, and work it out.

Made steak, mixed vegatables, and baked potatoes last night. Talk about good. I loaded the potato with the vegies and sour cream. Talk about filling. Oh yeah, the steak has something to do with filling me.

Friday, August 11, 2006

Happy Birthday Beatty

Beatty has been my online pal for a while now. I met her at the Understanding the Arts forum. Great forum, by the way. I am very happy I met her. Enjoy your day Beatty.

Working on more writing. This, or course limits blog time, but its well worth it. I got so much work to do.

Wednesday, August 09, 2006

I'm not Tired.

I just streamlined chapter 2. I am so proud of myself. it relates more to chapter one better. It will make chapter 3 better as well (which will get the streamline process later.) Whether I feel sleepy or not I need to close my eyes and rest for I fall alseep on the job.

Writing Fool IIX

I have some scenes in my head that are begging to get onto paper. I need to have them typed and ready. My script is losing cohesion. I went off onto a terrible tangent, but I thin k it would not have flourished if I did not stray. I recognized the trail, and will head back into the right place.

Eating spaghetti for dinner. It has a lot of garlic. I didn’t realize it at first, but its what I wanted. Its so good. I love it. Its also got a sweet taste, and less pepper, which is different for me, as my foods are spicy first.

UPDATE: Got several ideas down and typed. I love that I was able to get the ideas on paper. I love the writing process. The fact that I was able to reel myself back in from an tangent has been very satisfying to me. The name of the game is progress, and I am very blessed for it.

Saturday, August 05, 2006

I'm Watching...

...Legally Blond, and loving it. I didn't think I would but its funny, and I want to enjoy my night.

Friday, August 04, 2006

The Evolution of Stacy R. Haynes

Let it be said that my life is worth living, and my life is about me. This shall be my praticie.

My happiness...
My health and well being...
My wealth and fortunes...
My faith...
My love...
My evolution...

Its all in my hands.

Now I have the power to break free of all that constrains me. God willing, I will succeed!

I Am So Sleepy...

I am going to get my five sentences in though. I went to the grocery store. I am cooking spaghetti tomorrow. I shopped on a budget, so I got the bare essentials. It's gonna be fine. I bought enough so I will have spagetti for a few days, which ain't bad at all.

Paid searl bills today, including my insurance. Gotta get that paid. Too many accidents in Savannah, not to have insurance (also, its the law). I didn't put out the garbage because it rained like crazy. By time the weather made nice, it was dark. I took a bath, and now I am so relaxed. I love Fridays.

Working on chapter four of the comic book. Each chapter makes me realize things about the last chapter. First drafts are tricky, as a lot of details need to be streamlined. I don't want to do any major editing and revising until I get chapter six written. I have learned something. Its how I should have done this with my novel, to keep plugging away. I still can. I love the hard work (challenge) this brings. My mind so needs good stimulation.

Cari is working on drawing the short story. She should be done by the end of the month. Will post an image of that shortly. Her work is soooo beautiful. I can't wait to see our story published. :-). Our hard work will pay off in the result.

Thursday, August 03, 2006

Writing Fool VIII

First draft of chapter 3 is done. I love it! I am so stoked. I love progress. Its bedtime now.

Wednesday, August 02, 2006

Wednesday...

I got my Chinese. LOL I knew I would. I need to feed my car next. Gas is like a king when it comes to prices. Royalty will tax the hell out of ya no matter the situation. Being on the poor side so bums me. LOL Suchg is life. My car and I ain't going nowhere unless we have to. ROFL

I am making some changes as to how I apprach some issues. I will detail this later on, but I need to make these changes ASAP.

Meatless Mondays and Other Adventures.

Yesterday was truly a meatless day. For brunch it was all about a peanut butter sandwich. For dinner, I had a garden salad and baked potato. It was good too. Didn’t miss the meat, although a big juice steak would have made my day sing like an angel, but I digress.

Tuesday is very meatless as well. Tomorrow I think I will have Chinese. I want some beef and broccoli. Yeah, Meaty Wednesday is so on!!!!!

SCAD is starting a contemporary writing program that I am seriously thinking of switching to. I LOVE writing (duh-how long have I kept my blog), and would love to focus on writing as my MFA. The portfolio should have at least 20 pages of creative and technical writing. It turns out I have such examples to be presented. I am working on a script for a comic book. I have a short story that is publish-ready. I also have one of my art history papers that I got an “A” that’s still my favorite papers.

Got a parking ticked today. I am so silly, I forgot to feed the meter.. This is absolutely annoying but I will have to remember to feed the damn meter. I’ll pay 10.00 bucks that’s all I will do. Damn parking lack thereof bull ish!!!!!

Tuesday, August 01, 2006

My Day Is...

A friend of the family’s mother passed away over the weekend. My mother called to tell me about it. This is someone we knew for years. I am very sorry this happened to him. I worked with his mother when I used to live in Charleston. We both had jobs at College of Charleston. She retired from there before I left C of C for Verizon Wireless.

His mom was a sweetheart, and we sometimes ended up riding the same bus to work (sometimes class for me). It’s a sad situation.

Here I am drinking some potent coffee. I think it will cleanse my colon. OMG it tastes like it could wake the dead. Such is the life. I needed a kick. Never mind that the kick landed me on the other end of Abercorn St. I think I had an out of body experience with this coffee.

Workday started with a humdrum of a meeting. I was in no mood to hear of the glorious changes that would make the Circ dept better. I was more than turned off, as usual. Only the silliness changes with more games to make a brother feel like they trying to work him over. Workload has some more tacked on BS. I digress…

Somewhere other here is a world waiting for me to break free of the BS. A couple of pals are doing some extra busy work. I feel for them as they have a lot to do. Somehow I’m following their lead, but with no overtime.

Working on chapter three of my comic book. I get to page five when I have the overwhelming need to write it over. Why? The scene is so similar to my novel, that I feel I’m cheating myself. The novel’s material is unique and good. I don’t want to lose that, so I am changing the five pages I did. That’s life, and I’ll deal. More elements of my comic are making sense. Writing is becoming clearing. Why didn’t the novel do this?