Yu-Gi-Oh: The Abridged Series Episode 2 - Rocky VII

Finals

It's been hectic with research papers and scripts to revise.  Writing is a never-ending somewhat thanksless persuit.  I will say that it is worth every iota of effort placed into it.  I  am quite statisfied (if not exhausted). 

Filthy: Whatever It Takes II

OK, I joked about making a story I wrote in class, filthy (my words were "make the Maquis De Sade blush") if the fourth draft wasn't approved by my professor.  Needless to say he's been asking "how are things different from any other story."  Well, after several attempts at rewriting and feeling he may not approve, I am thinking, "let me show you *how* different."  Yes I'm taking a bratty approach as to how different I can make this story, but that might be what it takes to keep my "A" average.   This brought back memories.

I've shown short stories to many people, and they were a joy to write, however, many people *didn't* want to read them.  I could tell from the lackluster or nonexistent responses. It wasn't until I placed a profanity-laced story in front of people did I get a reaction/response from them.  I'm fascinated now.  Is that what it takes to get a reaction from readers: being naughty?

Naughty I can do quite easily.  I can come up with ALL sorts of provocative ideas.  I can break free of the conventions.  I begin to think that's what my prof wants.  Something lurid, filthy, and provocative.   Should I open Pandora's box, so to speak, or should I leave well enough alone?  

Whatever it takes.       

Fifteen Pages

I wrote half of my script and I am done with it tonight.  I hope this revision does the trick and gets a postive response.   I am going to relax tonight and let the story "cool off," then see if my prof digs what I've done.  otherwise I don't know what to do.   I should pray, cause that's all I got at this point.   I don't know how to smooth things out.   Also I have other papers I need to work on. 

Disconnected

Been working on my scripts for my "Writing for Comics" class, and I've been failing at the latest story.  My plot is rather boring, and I am so wrapped up in it being acceptable, and worried about keeping my "A" average that I've missed the boat all together.  I've been so preoccupied with getting this story completed that I've stressed myself.  I do hope I can turn this plot around.  After a third draft of my story I feel disconnected.  It's not me writing.  Its me trying to please others.  Why am I backing down from a challenge?    Why am I hiding myself and talent.  I should shine everyday, not somedays. 

I need to be honest with myself.  I have a twisted mind.  Now I'm chaste all of a sudden, like I turned myself into a writing virgin.   My spelling's gotten worse, I feel distracted, and my voice up and left the room.   What happened to me?  Who reflowered me? 

Needless to say I've got to get my third draft, look it over, and make it read like a "Stacy" story or I cannot claim to be writing at all:  I'm just dablling, playing writer.   That can't happen.  I'm far better than that, and I know I have  the chops.  

The Warm Up

I have to keep writing.  I have this paper due and its twelve to fifteen pages.  Needless to say I need to get off my duff and put the time and energy into serving up this paper proper.  The way to start is to write.  I need to put at least five sentences into this entry, and more if possible.   I hope to post several warm ups.  yeah they're filler, but they are writings. 

The music playlist is very ecletic today.    Everything from Mariah Carey's "Can't Let Go," to Meshelle N'Degeocello's "Bitter."  It drowns out the outside world some, allowing me to focus on the task onhand.  

Whatever It Takes

I promised myself that I would be more proactive in the New Year.   I went for things I wanted in 2008, but like a relationship, you have to do a lot to win over your woman, but you have to do a hell of a lot more to keep her. 

In other words it takes a lot to be with someone you love, and if you’re committed and passionate, you will make things work.

I have a lot I am ambitious about, and I refuse to feel shamed for wanting more out of life.   It’s a sly ambition.  I never thought to verbalize what I want in this world.  I never thought to put more effort into my goals.

So I say to all who read this that I’m will to do whatever it takes to succeed and maintain success.   I’m not interested in settling for whatever.  If I give you a story, it needs to curl your toes, tingle your spine, or touch your heart.   I’m not interested if I can’t do something with my craft.
    

If I’m working, you need the best damn service you can have.  If I have an opinion, you need to know what I’m thinking, without it getting destructive.

I can do anything I want to.  My other resolution should be to be rid of the self-doubt that nags me.  

Naked in 2009

I should post more.  This blog is naked in 2009.  I said I wanted to challenge myself, so I need to challenge myself to keep updating my blog.   

Cinema Studies

I am working on my research paper for my class.  It's on the movie Forgetting Sarah Marshall.  It's an offbeat comedy, and a littly odd to categorize.   Is it a Judd Apatow comedy? Is it a screwball comedy?  Is it a romantic comedy?  If its an Apatow, then it's almost a genre by itself.  If it's the latter two, then it's roots trace back to old Hollywood films.    I got my work cut out for me.  

Brave/Risk

It occurs to me, that while pitching a synopsis in class that the class wanted more outrageousness in my story.  I ponder this notion as I am like, wow, do I really want to take things to the nth degree (or near it)?  The concept is simple, but the execution requires a lot more finess, rethinking and re-writing.  Am I brave enough to push past my comfort zone?   I really am at the service of the story, and I would LOVE for the story to take on stronger, interesting elements.   It means going out on a limb, which bothers me a little, BUT it also excites me.   

It's Only My Nerves

Been reading up on the next steps for my screenplay.  Yes I'm ahead of myself, but at the same time, it pays to develop long-term goals.  An agent is in my future.  Back in the day I chased publishers,  now I'm a mess .  Why?  It makes me nervous because this is new territory, and I want to run from it.  I'm scared of succeeding, and scared of failing.  Can I write another screenplay?   Is the current one good?   Why am I beating myself up?  I will never give up writing.  I might as well get used to the fact that I will expand my horizons, not as a curiosity, but as a serious craftsman.  

More Writing For Me

WRITTEN: 12-30-08
Decided to write three pages tonight.  Failed to look at my beat sheet, but I knew what the next scene would be, so I wrote it out.   I do remind myself that this is only the first draft. 

Felt that twinge of worry about the story not being “interesting” to anyone.  Yes, it’s going to nag me for a while, but that’s what happens when you’re creating.  You think of the possibilities.  It could get produced, or it can get trashed.    Like I said before, I’m still gonna finish it.  

What I do know is: It has a clear vision and direction.  I know it has a lot of potential to be a wonderful film.   One of the characters, I gained empathy for, but he’s an asshole, and that’s NOT going to change, but for a brief moment, I liked him.  I hope his charm leaps off the page.   

My Vacation Time

WRITTEN: 12-30-08
I did more than I had to with the vacation writing requirements, so I took yesterday off from writing.  I did run a few errands with Mom, and visited Grandmom again.  She was happy to see us, of course.   Needless to say I made a pit stop to see if I could pick up Primeval on DVD.   I’ll discuss that in another entry.  

Wrote a lot the day before, and I felt like I accomplished more than what I set out to do.  I ran a few errands today, and will have to write a separate entry on writing that I was inspired by.  Did do some comics shopping.   I found very little, but wasn’t looking for much.  

It was cold last night.  Not freezing, but I was cold.   It warmed up this morning.   I am tempted to peek at the Bold & the Beautiful, but I’m sure they are on the same page I left them on months ago.   Best to let them go.  More or less, picking my nose will be a better use of my time. Besides I still want to watch more of Primeval.

Page Sixty

WRITTEN: 12-28-08
I wonder if I can make it to page sixty.  I had a few setbacks, and my edits proved that I was nowhere near where I wanted to be.  Yes I am annoyed as can be. I feel nervous because a creeping voice in my head suggested that my screenplay might not be as anywhere as good as I think it may be.  It doesn’t mean I’m going to STOP writing it, cause I want to finish it.  I suppose it’s natural to question myself.  If I thought it was perfect, I guess that I would fail miserably. 

The Academic Adventure

As it stands I have a full year and five months to wrap up my MA degree.  What does this mean?  I have a lot of work to do, because once the quarter starts, I will be busy, and before I know it, the quarter will be done!   That means onto the next quarter.    Hopefully by the summer quarter I will know the full direction and scope of my adventure because I  need a solid plan in order to fulfill my dreams and passions.  

I was wondering about the graduation ceromony as well.  Should I participate?  The first thought is "no," but this is my Master's Degree.   It represents my independence.  Should I let the ceremony pass me by with a whimper?   Should I not celebreate this moment?   I DO have family and friends I'd like to share this joy with.   It's worth contemplating a little longer.        

Also Written on December 28, 2008

It’s been a warm winter for me.  Bright and sunny most of the days.  I expected cold, but I am not arguing with the end results.   Charleston’s roughly the same as I left it.  The neighborhood has gotten more ghetto.   What was at least a happy, bright neighborhood slowly becomes sad, and depressing.  One of the homes has fallen to neglect, and it looks horrible!   The porch has dry rotted and collapsed.  The grass has grown, and died.  Perhaps someone will claim the property and fix it up. 

Most of the time the family has been busy with work, as they only had one day off from work.  I’m left alone because they are busy.    A few friends have been so busy they haven’t gotten back in touch with me.   It means more screenwriting time.   LOL 

Written on December 28, 2008

Hello.  Decided that in spite of being on vacation I should write at least two pages of this screenplay a day.  Why?  Am I not entitled to some fun?   I am entitled to some fun and a good time, which I have been having.  I consider two pages nibbling on the script.  Two pages a day won’t hurt me for the rest of this week.  I am entitled to some fun, which I have been having like crazy.   What can I say, as a future screenwriter, I will be working around the clock.  Two pages a week will be the least of my worries.   It will be like major edits and notes wherever I am.  Revising at the airlines, at home with my family, at my own home, even when I sleep.  I want to complete what I have, and I want to succeed.

Is It Wrong...

That I haven't even finished my screenplay, and I have a sequel in mind.  LOL   A deliciously twisted, bastardly story.   What can I say, I don't want to repeat myself, and at the same time I can expand on the characters.  Doing more research and writing.  I still have a lot of work to do.   Must get hopping, but the same time i don't want to overwork the script.    May stay up late tonight.  

The Gentleman Has Arrived

Forming some plans.  Clearing the path.  About to make my moves.   I feel like a star shining so brightly.  I need to get things done, and I feel that I have a clear direction.    Don't underestimate me.  It may not be right on the firsth shot, but I keep getting better with time.   You don't know me yet, but I know that intend on getting things done, and not worrying over what could be.    

A Bottle of Water Per Day...

I notice that I have ideas pour into my head after I drink a full 24 oz of water, or 48 oz. I must be pushing all the sugar and caffeine outta my system, and it permits me to think more freely. I must keep this up if I am to maintain a high amount of writing time. I want to win, with the best performance I can give my craft. If water gives me the edge (maybe it doesn't do a damn thing at all), I'll keep it up.

The Near Mistake

Again I ignore my instincts, and did not act upon an idea I had.  I need to give a couple of characters some vices, or something to do.  Otherwise they are a bit of a a blah to write.   I don't know what, but they need something ASAP, and I am glad I am thinking about this now, because I have a moment or two to not have to regret not following up on my own insticts.  If anything, having faith in my ideas will enhance my writing.   Even if it's wrong it can be romed later, right?    

What is Cinema Studies?

For me and my Masters of Atrs (MA) degree, it's the study of film history, trends, and theories.   I also intend on having a concertration in screenwriting.   Why you may ask?  I love writing screenplays for film and television, so I want to have the film background while obtaining the crucial scripting skills.   One of my goals is to be a FT screenwriter in film and televison. 

Things I Do...

Had a bit of a brain freeze when it came to the screenplay.  Spent minimal time writing it over the weekend.   I did do some research, and feel bound to do more writing, but I do need to complete the reseach, which will help me further down the line.

Had the idea for another story.  Almost let the idea pass, but forced myself to write it down.  Began putting together plot points, and the story grew from there.   It's still raw, but that's where it needs to be.  

Just Do It!

Studying some of my old writing.  Noticed the looser I am in writing, the better I see necessary story elements.  I'm not thinking about it, I'm simply doing things.   I'm finding the conflicts, character and stakes in aborted stories.  So I need to remind myself constantly to not overthink and write my scenes.  Do not freak out, just do it!  

Writing is Rewriting

Manged to revise some of the pages I wrote.  I need to pull out the beat sheet so that I adhere to any new scenes.  Been worried that I'm overwriting.   Also I am having an issue with trying to say what type of body language to describe the characters with.  Getting a little fruestrated, but this is the first draft.  I reccomend more work on top of work.  Writing is rewriting. 

Things Not to Do

I am here to help and serve, and would appreciate it if people stopped to consider some things: 

Do not adjust yourself on the way to the desk:  We can see you.  The bathroom is not that far away, and we don't want to run for the hand sanitizer for every other person.

Speaking of bathrooms, please wash your hands after using it.   'Nuff said.   

Likewise do not pull your undies out of your crack.  We can see that too.   

Speaking of crack issues, please cover up your ass crack when bending over.  I'm sure it's drafty, and  who want's a cold back there?   A runny noes is difficult as it is.

Cover your mouth when you cough.    Do we really need to get you some tissues?  Seriously. 

If you have a nasty cough, stay home.  No one likes a germ spreader.   We can't make you take Robotussin, but if I could, I would.

When you ask a question, please try to get it one sentence.   It is not fair to stretch out simple words into five-six sentences, and you still have said nothing. 

Customer care begins with you.  Setting the tome is the best way to get favorable results.  I'm surprised by those who don't know this fact.

Customer care and service doesn't not mean "customer personal servant."

More Scribbling

So I’m writing, and it occurs to me that I am writing something that is more realistic, and not based on science fiction.  I’ve written many short stories that dealt with people and no sci-fi or fantasy elements in the past, so it’s not unfamiliar territory.  This time I am writing a comedy where I’ve given some characters some life, and it’s exciting to behold.  I’m inspired to write more.    

Waiting...

Just waiting for my mojo to jum up and take over.  I need to get some writing done, and this post is my warm-up exercise today.   Outside is not as cold as I thought.  Was going to cook, but decided to have take out today.  I don't feel like cooking.  I feel like relaxing a little and hoping to enjoy a movie or two.  I could use a glass of sweet tea with lemon.   I should have made pancakes for breakfast.   

More Scribbling, Another Issue

Trying to write more.  Feeling a bit intimidated by the scene and the characters.  In reality I am pussyfutting around the scene.  I'm not giving it my all.  I feel defeated, weak, and a little stupid.  First of all, I CAN write, so the fact that I am being such a baby about this annoys me.  Why am I trying  to fail myself?  Gonna take a litle break from it, and I do mean little.  I just may need to step back, but this hafl-stepping insults my intellegence.  

Hungry

It looks like its going to storm cats and dogs outside, and I am a little worried about that.   I forgot my slice of pecan pie when I left home.   I wants it.  LOL.  Been scribbling, which is not new.  About to get some grub and chow down.  Can I haz meal.  I want a chicken salad sandwhich.  lets hope its not as dry as they like to make it.  

And Now, Act II

I feel real happy about now.  I am ready to move onto Act II of my screenplay.  It's been a little rough for me, but during my break I was able to add a page or two to the script.  Even managed to backup my file (which you should ALWAYS do).  I slacked off a couple of times, but I got back on top of things.  

Scribbling

I had a good day last night as I tuned out of the internet and worked on my screnplay.  I was able to revise and add a few pages.   I love the fact that i was able to push forward because for a brife moment, I felt stuck.  Stuck is bad.  I could not reach a decision.  I made myself revise a couple of the pages.  I still question a couple of moments in the script but they had to be written in order for me to get past the rough spot.  

Pastels and Hulk

Played with the pastels while watching the Incredible Hulk film last night. It's pays a lot of homage to the TV show, and does not really tie into the first movie. I don't know if I like what I did with the drawings. Both images are unfinished. I shall post them when I'm done. The portait stares at me. LOL I feel compelled to work on it tonight.

Pastel Attack/Busy Weekend

I think I'll draw something this weekend. Something simple and off the cuff. I got some colored paper, and the pastels have been begging to be released. Yes, the free time has come upon me. Mind you, I have some more scripting to do. Also I came up with a new idea I quickly wrote down, and I want to make sure to develop it.

Nacho Disaster

Hello.  I wanted nachos last night, and now I had to PAY the price for my desire.   Something didn't agree with me last night, and while doubled over in pain, I found myself cursing the fact that I ate nachos.   Needless to say the nachos waged war on my poor tummy, and I felt miserable for the rest of the night.    It's all I will say about it.   All I will say.  Damn it!  

Inspired

I felt like writing more of my screenplay, so I did.  Don't want to think too deep on it.   Gotta let the ideas flow.  I hope to keep this up for the rest of the month.   I like that i was able to move past where I was, and able to make some connections.

Been obcessed with Avatar: The Last Airbender.  I looked at the material with keen eyes, and re-watched episodes.  I really want book 3 on DVD.   I'm gonna get it.   Rarely do i see writers who can blend drama and humor and reatin both elements without compromisng the other.  For example, when Toph teaches Aang Earthbending, and she breaks the rock with her head.   The look on Katara and Aang's faces is priceless.   Still Toph made her point about facing doen a rock.  The sister is bad!   

On Demand!

It's a slow night and its almost time for Law & Order, which I may not watch anyways.  They should have it on On Demand.  Have I mentioned that's one thing I LOVE about Comcast?  Hardly any NBC shows are on On Demand.  I guess I'll have to use Fancast or Hulu, but when I'm home I don't mind watching the TV.   Sometimes watching tv on the puter can be cumbersome.    Maybe I should rent a movie.  Something to pass the time.  

My New Year's Ambitions

I need to write something.  I'm feeling lame in the blogging department.  I have two new classes for the quarter.  The first is Scripting for Comics, the other is Research & Methodologies for Cinema Studies.   I'm gonna be busy, but I have to double my efforts becaues I ambitiously want A's for both classes.   I can live with B's, but it'd be nice to go higher than where I usualy am.  I wonder if I can hit a 4.0 GPA.  A bother can be ambitious, you know.    

Because I live for silliness.

Superheroes and their costumes.

Z is for Zeal

It's the passion I have for writing, and knowing that there are few words with "Z" that I could actively use.   Back on topic.  I do feel writing is an important part of my life, and I can only grow if I keep working towards getting better at my craft.  What did that mean?  It meant embarsing story structure, and learning a thing or two about how I am not right all the darn time.   It's a blessing to have zeal.  It's also a blessing to love something enough to accept changes. 

XY is for XY

XY is the chromosome for men. My screenplay focuses on a guy who's an ass and must redeem himself. It's been a tough sell at first, but it taught me to shed my reserve and conservative mindset. Can't be timid trying to complete a comedy. I still have a lot to learn, Writing can be fluid at times, flexible. Other times impassable.

The men in the story go through changes, some good, some embarrasing, some real blissful moments. The journey is really what counts, and I have to get it right or I'm in the wrong.

W is for Wishing

Sleeping in bed next to nothing wishing you were here with me
How many times must I have the same dream?
How many times must I wake,
And taste the bitterness of reality?
So I keep wishing you were here with me
Wishing to feel the heat of your body,
the touch of your soft skin,
To stroke your back and hair
With tender loving care
To fall in love with you over and over again.
For you my lady, I can't stand
The distance  between us
Call it desperation,  Call it love
But I've had enough of being apart. 
The phone calls ring untrue.
And emails won't do. 
Until I'm with you,
I keep wishing, wanting and waiting
For the comfort I once knew. 

V is for Vindication

For those not in the know, I took screenwriting this quarter.  It was one of those classes I was nervous about, in spite of being a writer.  Confidence was not my strongest suit in class.  Well I'm doing well because I won my professor over.  The prof believes in writng structure (see the books I wrote about in my last post).  I adhered.  I worked, I wrote.   I feel good about the final results.  It could have been one of those real bad experiences where I hate my experiences.   It's not. 

U is for Useful

I've read a few books and I want to share them with you because they are useful to writers.  The first is The Writer's Journey.  It gives the classic archetypes/structures of characters in stories.  My professor believes in this book, and wanted us to read it before class started.  It is a good book, and I love that it  makes sense to me. 

The next book is, Your Screenplay Sucks.  This book has been my friend as I wrote my screenplay.  It gave me a lot of good points and issues to look out for as I write.  For example, the word "is."  Try to find new ways to write a sentence without the word "is" in there.  For example, Caroline is walking towards her bed."  Try "Caroline collapses on bed."   Minimize your word usage.   Keep it simple.   Learn to cut words out.  You get the picture.  

T is for Tagline

A tag line or log line is telling your movie in one or two sentences. I wonder if I can do it in six words. I love a challenge.

S is for Scripts

It seems my writing mojo decided to keep in touch. I have a bit of a buzz as I write a screenplay for my class. Let me tell you, this has been a good journey for me. I need to keep myself going in the best way possible with the creativity. Before taking the class I did feel a little worried and apprehensive about it. I didn't know if I could produce thirty pages.

However, that voice in me that tells me that I should try the class won out. I feel now I have a chance to win at this class and turn in a dynamite script. It is a rated "R" comedy, and i intend to make the class blush from being obnoxious. I want to write more and more. I want a screenplay for every occasion, and story I see fit to write. I need to write more scripts in my life. It will make me feel good about my life. Not just rated "R." I'll take that "G," "PG" "PG-13," "NC-17" or "Unrated." I'm not afarid to change gears.

Like Mortal Kombat I want to rock a flawless for the final round of my class. Go me!

R is Realize

Have you ever had a moment where you paused, and felt like you need to make some things happen? I feel like that about now. It's like a dozen things I should get done and be ready for what comes my way. Call it a creative moment. Call it me hunch.

Q is for Quota

I wonder how many posts I will make this month. I always start off with good intentions, but fall off. To my defense, I have been busy with screenwriting and my lit films class. Seen so many film versions of Pride & Prejudice, that I think I need to get married now before my father passes, and the property goes to someone else. Damn you Darcy. Why do you irritate me? Lizzie and Jane, why do I care what happens to you in each freaking version of the film (even the Latter Day version)? Oh no, here comes Mr. Collins. :-( LOL

P is for Primeval

I love this show. Watching BBC America. They lured me in with dinosaurs, and I could NOT stop watching it. For some reason I love Helen Cutter's character. She's turned very amoral, and lethal. Some interesting sub stories developing, and I *don't* want to ruin it for anyone, so needless to say I like the show, dinos, and characters. One complaint a brother has, was for the hope of seeing more people of color on the show, and it looks like there is an attempt to do so. :-) I will stay tuned for the next season.

Did I mention that Primeval rules? ;-)

O is for October

This is my fave month but it is also a very transitional month. The weather changes from warm to cold. Leave change from green to ironically warm colors of red, yellow, brown and orange. Fall season brings new episodes of some of my fave shows. Sometimes I get new shows I can peak at. Sometimes I wish I had a DVR. I really do. My birthday has come and gone. It's a blessing. Needless to say I am grateful for a good month. I seem to have found my blogging spirit again. Where did go. Glad it came back.

N is for Next

As in the next time I have a negative experience I am going to change it into a postive.  Call it a learning tool.  A brother needs to get above the cure and stop thinking he doesn't have a chance.   I have all the chances in life.  I'm learing so much just by living.  I'm hoping to claim more postives before the week is through.  I need to get myself going on new projects. 

M is for Micro-Managed

This goes out to my angel in the room.  he tends to make things sweet and lovely.  he wants me to think about how my writing would be better if people didn't think I was a bit offbeeat.  Also proper people don't think left of center.  They fit in.  They belong with the rest of the crowd.  Am i the weed in the patch of roses?  

I look at this and I think that I am not a weed.  If the color is red, then I'd be blue.  Why?  I am me, and I should not make excuses for myself.  I should take risks that are good for my craft.  Can't play it safe when I know the unique voice is the one the angel hates.  So the angel does me a favor, and I read him wrong.  He questions my true impulses because he wants me to know they stand out.   He puts out the list of contraditory thoughts not so I can be normal, but so I know that it's unique.   

L is for Lars and The Real Girl

Lars and the Real Girl is a film that did two things for me.  1. It was not my typical type of movie (action/sci-fi/fantasy).  2. it's got a lot of charm and heart, and humor.  Where do I start.  it's about a guy who is painfully shy who develops a crush and relationship on a Real Girl.  I am being rather abstract here, because to say more is to ruin the movie for those who have not seen it.  I was pleasantly surprised, by how good the movie is, and how drawn in I became.  I would put it in my collection next to my Lord of the Rings.  Yeah, I'm bold about it.  

K is for Kitchen

I am making lasagna for dinner today and steamed vegetables. I started with the sauce, and I wanted to finish it, but it was late. I sauteed some onions (red and white), bell peppers, and mushrooms. The sauce I added oregano, Italian seasonings, minced garlic, a dash of sugar, salt, red pepper flakes, and bay leafs. I was able to add the sauteed veggies to the sauce, but that was it last night. I will brown the meat today, and I need to add some diced tomatoes to get the sauce to have some more liquid, cause now it looks like some rich vegetable stew.

J is for Justified

I like how I feel right now. It seems things are going in the right direction for me. Bills paid and a proactive choice was made to maintain a sense of balance over my finances. I'm in a program that wants me to be there without beating me over the head with preliminaries and conditional courses. I feel positive all over. While proactive will remain a goal, another will be to complete my graduate program.

I is for Incorporate & Infuse!

It occured to me that in order to give myself and my writing a better vision, I must incoproate elements of myself into my work.  I must infuse my stories from my life and culture.  I must think of the things that make my experience uniquely my own.   I need to get bet beter at respecting my thoughts and ideas as a solid whole aspect of me.  By extention, my writing is me.  There can be no more holding back.  To dare leave out the things that make me, hurts me.  it suggests that I don't like who I am, and this cannot be.  I love myslef and my life.  I will improve.  I will get better.   In order to take things to the next level, I MUST incoproate aspects of my life in my creativity.

H is for Help

I wanted to satrt this day off smooth, but work up to a burning red eye.  OMG Let me tell you, it was like someone threw some pepper in there.  It stung so much.  I was embarrased.  What made it so irritated.  Outside the temperature changed.  I didn't like that.   Ran for the Zyrtec.  Felt as sleepy as can be.  Went to class, and the lit films class is so cozy, I could fall asleep.  Watched the Bride of Frankenstean.  Hadn't seen that one in a LONG time.   ahfter a few headbobs, I managed to force myself to saty awake.  

G is for Graduate Program Change

Well it's official, I've changed my major to Cinema Studies. I don't have any preliminary courses, and I am grateful the program hasn't set any conditions on me. It's been a wild ride with graduate courses, but I feel that it is necessary that I make proper adjustments to my academic career as opposed to feeling powerless to help myself. I'm not going to dwell on my negative experiences, but rather look forward to an exciting change.

P.S.  Did I mention that there is no conditional review for me?  I only have to pass the candicy reveiw, which is required of all majors.   No extra work to deal with.  :-)  

F is for "Forgetting Sarah Marshall"

I saw Forgetting Sarah Marshall this weekend. It is a laugh out loud film. I didn't think I would like this one, but I found myself laughing out loud at several moments of this film.  I love the Dracula opera song.   The film in a film stuff is great.  That parody of CSI is drop dead funny.   It's really so good silly fun.  Some people may be uncomfortable with the male frontal nudity (shown briefly a few times), but it really works in this film.   Symbolically it suggests a physical, mental and spiritual nakedness and vulnerability of the character.  Ultimately a freedom the character possesses.  Jason Segel is a brazen and smart actor.  I give him his props.

Mila Kunis' character is so likable and spirited.  I remember her mainly as Jackie from  that Seventies Show.   She gets to be a lot more mature, and contrast Jason's emotional character.  Russell Brand's rather sexually charged rock star persona is hilarious.  Even his sweet, sexy ballad is raunchy.   It just hurt to laugh so much.   See it/don't see it. It's up to you. Taste is mildly subjective.   I know I had more than a few good laughs that I needed.   Linked the web page for those who might have a passing interest. 

P.S.  Beetlebum will kill me for not mentioning  Kristen Bell, so I have to.  The Crime Scene parody made me laugh so hard.  Also her ability to entangle herself in relationships is interesting.   I liked her relationship with Brand and Segel's characters.   The I Hate Sarah Marshall blogsite is so funny!

E is for Easy Money

Went to Starbucks for a java chip frappichino. On my way back from getting my chocolate goodness, this dude asks me if I have a dollar. For the record, it is not cool to ask me if I have a dollar. If I had it, I would spend it on myself. Also it doesn't help that he asked the Starbucks attendant inside the building to exchange is four quarters for a bill.

Needless to say, I told him no, and kept it moving. Were I to have a dollar for all who asked, I would have the wealth of Bill Gates, Oprah Winfrey, and Donald Trump combined. I would be able to spare a brother some change, but still, if charity and hustle is all you can do, then a brother's going to need a J-O-B.

D is for Determined

I am determined to get my classwork and life managed with a high amount of success.  I needed a "break day" to digest so many things and Now I need to get in gear as I work a LOT harder on my lit films and screenwriting class.   A brother is tired.  Yes he is.  So Let's see if I can get the research done for the screenplay.   I really need a full uniterrupted day to get it done. 

C is for Confusion & Chinese

For the past few days the temperature dropped at night.  It was cool and I needed the heat in the car on.  I forgot this every moring, riding on my way to class.  Well, needless to say in the warm weeather I was like, "why am I feeling so hot."  By time I thought of the question, it dawned on my that i did not change the car's thermostat back to cool.   So my lovely duh moment hit me like a brick. 

Planning to get Chinese food for dinner. I simply won't be cooking tonight.  

B is for Birthday

It was yesterday, but what the hell. I love my life, and feel blessed that God has given me a chance to see another year. I didn't do much for my birthday because I had a busy class and work schedule. I did manage to get to visit the family the previous week, which made my day. Someone said I had a "glow" about me. That was true. Birthday glow! :-)

A is for Ambition

I have a script that I wrote out all the plot for ansd presented to class today.  Act one is on track, BUT act two and three need mad work.  I have a lot of good ideas and but it needs to be fine tuned.  I got a lot of great feedback form the class so I have a lot to digest and resolve.  I feel so busy from this one class alone, but the end result will be 30-40 pages of script!   Yes, I'm being ambitious, and it it isn't easy for me, but I love a good challenge.  

Thanks Kat.

This is seriously funny!

More SNL Spoofing.

Howling At The Moon

Just getting my ideas on paper, and the questions that I need to ask and answer.  Without these notes I fear I may fail to get my act together on my screenplay.  I can see some weighty elements coming in.  I wonder if the tone of the story will change.  I've got a little bit of the ideas known.   I'm going to type my notes out because sometimes typing them and looking at them gives me the clarity I need to get my ish together.  I have a protagonist, and I have to figure out his wants , needs, and what's at stake.   Busy, busy, busy.

P.S.  I have some references to track down and read. 

Today

I've been tired, but I digress.  Class have started.  The weather has cooled down some.  Thank God.  The heat is overwhelming sometimes.  Sometimes I feel like I'm gonna cook myself walking down the street.  Zyrtec will really work and knock you out.  Classes are going well, but I am nervous.  I still have a pitch to put together, but nothing will gell unless I write it out (duh).   Gonna have oatmeal for brunch.  I'm not playing.  :-) 

Say What: The B-Word

Yes it's time for the B word in my life.  A budget is near.  A brother gots to put some things in persepctive before he finds that he has nothing to show for his hard work.   A budget will helm me be a better person, and know that i can manage my life with clarity, and not at a whim.  Sometimes I feel I'm at the mercty of chance, when i really am in control.  

SNL Opener: This Made Me Laugh!

Yes Ma'am

My Momma told me I had to add a vegetable to my dinner when I told her I was having fried chicken, mac & cheese, and baked potatoes.   LOL  I agreed to add some brocholi to the menu. 

Solange- Sandcastle Disco [OFFICIAL Full Length Music Video]

I like this song. Very happy and breezy. The video is quite playful too.

Thoughts

Have you ever loved yourself enough to make the changes necessary to be successful in your life?   Looked yourself in the mirror and know if you needed to make changes, you simply went about them?  You didn't fuss or complain, you knew what had to be done and took the steps.  I mean get into the trenches and make the hard  decisions for better or worse.   Not out of fear, you see, but out of unconditional love for yourself, and for your own well-being.   Ever think of yourself as more than who you are now,  and you desire to breakthrough  your constraints? 

Don't Blow It Man

I have this wonderful chance to make myself over.  Truly take care of business and I need this chance so bad that I can taste it.  All I can say to myself is "don't blow it."  I don't know where to begin, but I am afraid of blowing it.   So the question that comes to mind as I type this, "just what in the world do I need and want to be a better man?” I feel like I'm gonna fail at helping myself.   The truth is no one can free me but me.   Maybe I should take this one day at a time.

Let It Go

I feel like I'm running on fumes, cause the needle been locked on E a while ago.  Been wandering and wondering around like a lost traveler on a high foggy day.  Let me explain further: Sometimes I simply don't feel like being sensible, and love to have my idiotic moments come to the forefront.

I am so guarded and controlled that I feel like I need some Metamucil for my persona.  Sometimes I don't want to be serious, and so put together like I know everything, and shit's under control.  Sometimes I go spiraling, and I don't have a clue as to how the hell I got there.  Sometimes I get so sensitive and self-conscious that there is rain in the day, and no bliss.

I gotta let go, and take the dive.   Accept that there is risk, loss and gain.  Accept that I can build a better life for myself.   It’s not about my craft or my art.  It’s about me being at peace within myself.  It’s about me releasing all the pains, mistakes, and woes.    I’ve been wrong before.  I’ll be wrong again.  I’ll also be right, and successful, but I have to fortify myself with some spiritual resolve.  

Back In The Saddle

Have to write a statement of purpose for Cinema Studies MA program. I bit nervous, but at the same time feeling I can write something worth reading.   Ever since the dramatic writing department canned my entry, I've wondered about the content of my writing.  It used to be negative reactions and thoughts, but now it's about "do people get what I am writing."

It all leads to the fact that I may not have been the kind of writer the dept was looking for.   I didn't fit a certain mold, if you will.  Never give up though is my motto.  I'm tired of feeling defeated before I get started.    So  I may not be in the dramatic writing department, but the dream of screenwriting lives on in me.  I may write papers on fils, but I will have my concertation in screenwriting.  It just goes to show you that when one door closes another shall open for you.  

Playing With Fire

So I know this chick, and we are so cool together. I found myself thinking about her when I'm not busy with my work, class, and projects. What the hell? This doesn't happen to me every day. When did I start catching something? That ish better not be some feelings I'm catching either. Ok that's the sweet part. What's bitter is that I can clearly see this chica is not going in the same direction I am going. People always tell you who they are, and I can't ignore what I hear and see. Don't want to take the risk because this is playing with fire. Why go down in flames when I already know how the story's going to end? 

As a good friend always says, "keep it moving." That's no lie.   Save those feelings for someone else.  

Cleaing Fool

Nowhere done with the cleaning and I feel tired.  Hauled several bags of trash to the dumpster.  Before I send anything else there I would like to see the trash picked up.  That way I can at least  feel I am not adding to the current pile like I have.   I have one big box left that I am going through, and let me tell you it is insane the way I held on to some of this stuff.  I found a shirt and towel at the bottom of the box.  I've been wondering where they were.  

Desiring to have a soda (Coke mainly), so I will head to the store and purchase a six pack.  I need to purchase some quarters as well so I can wash some clothes, but that won't happen until next weekend.  

P.S.  The bedroom needs vacuuming again.  

The Not So Great Clean Up

So much junk lives in my apartment.  It gets throw it away without too much thought about it.  it's rather exhausing.  I filled a garbage bag with a bunch shreded crap.  Again, I ask myself why I horde this mess.  it was better off being thrown out on the first day.  Like a friend suggested, I should take it and shred it the first day it inters my place.   I think I've done enough for the day through.  

Also, I didn't forget to water my plants, which is Saturday's ritual. 

Clean This Frackin' Apartment

Over the weekend I decided to throw out all of the useless papers in my bedroom.   I threw out two bags worth of crap, and I was shocked by that.  My mind is like "why do I horde this stuff?"  It had to go.   Letting it go felt good.  I vacuumed as well.  The dust content was over the edge.  I was so embarrassed.  I lived like this.  The floor is clean now.  

Last night I cleaned out the fridge, which needs a good scrub down, but I was happy getting the shelves to not look stained.    It truly was a long time coming.  The LR looks like garbage, and I havve a LOT of paper to throw away still, but that's for the weekend.    There is no old food in my fridge, which I like as well.   Talk about embarrassed.  I am the bachelor.  

Oh Yeah!

I got a B in my American Moderns class.   I was rather tired with the whole adventure, but I'm glad I went through with it, and saw it through the end.   I did feel stressed, and frustrated, but it worked itself out.  Praise the Lord.   Now I don't have to look back at all with any regrets.  

Hurricane Alert

There's a hurricane out there that may hit Savannah, GA or SC, so I am twice worried for me and my fam.   If you're out there, please pray that we remain safe.  I'm upset, nervous, and feeling rather alone not that I am, but that's how I feel.   I will keep alert for things like changes in the weather, and I do pray the storm doesn't hit.  

RIHANNA DISTURBIA OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

I love the dark images and lyrics.

Late, Late, Late

I worked on my research paper. I seem to take time at night and work those out like a champ. I suppose. I rewrote the intro paragraph to fit the rewrites I've done. All that can be said is that I am enjoying the writing and the work that goes into writing. It ain't easy, but worth it.

This Weekend

Got a little sidetracked.  Feeling a little bit tired.   Went to bead early last night.  Was going to fall asleep on a movie.  Yes I know I'm tired when I want to watch TV and can't keep my eyes open.   Why fight it, eh?  Did my last step for homework for this week.  Not bad.   Been contemplating some other things as well.  It looks like it's going to pour down rain today.   I need to make sure and get some gas for the ride before I get rained on.  :-(    I will leave home a little earlier so I can avoid the rain. 

I've been plotting and planning a budget because I really need one I can stick to.  I need to finalize it.  I know what I want and wish to get it.  I gotta make things come true for me.  For now I'm getting offline so I can enjoy some quiet time.   I can also write in my notepad while looking at TV.   :-)

I hear thunder.  Y'all gotta go. 

I Need To Write More

This poor blog gets neglected all the time by me, but I feel a need to post here.  Special thanks to Beatty for posting a message to me.   I really needed that.  been working on a research paper, which is consuming and rewarding at the same time.  Made chili for dinner.  Gonna have it with nachos.  Made sweet tea also.

I  made a resolution to not spend a dime of money without first thinking it over, and not impulse buying.  Why?  Because sooner or later if I don't stop my impulse purchasing, I'm gonna hurt myself, and no amount of money can fix the problem if I don't wise up.  So if I plan now I can make my budget far better.  


Wrote out some ideas in word that have been left alone, which i need to at least liberate by printing out. 

Prose Like Poetry

Dare I think or dream of a new short story? In spite of myself, I see visions of new stories. A different flavor for every day of the week with a breaking desire to make all the wonderful dishes. When I write, I say, "This is love. This is passion." How can I make the words sing a song to soothe the heart and soul? I ask myself this every time I write.

Midtempo Day

Today has been on the midtempo side with me not getting my feathers ruffled, which is good. Having a bit of nostalgia with me remembering the cartoon, Blackstar. I so want the 13 episodes, which is on DVD. :-)

It stormed like crazy today with rain everywhere. I loathe to think of being trapped out there. I came to work at the time. The rain came down hard, and the wind was raging like crazy. I know I'm not taking the parkway home tonight. Too much rain and curves in the dark.

Did not work on the research paper, but I swear its going to turn into my thesis paper because I keep researching and adding to it. It's nice to find something worth exploring with a deeper prospect.

I'm off to write something, so later folks.

Updating...

I am working on a paper/project that has taken over most of my free time. I love being wrapped up in it, and I am embarrassed to say that I have not posted on my blog in a while. My blog is important to me so I feel I should write more here and not on the LJ. I may repost what I wrote there, but I like for this blog to have fresh content.

Another Sick Story

Am I ill, or am I def (not deaf). Another sick idea crossed my mind and I jotted it down on paper. Whose to say it will go anywhere, but I need to explore my options like it's my last day on Earth. None of us are guaranteed anything for tomorrow.

To my Family: I love y'all for better or worse we're all we've got.

To my friends: I love y'all as well. Thanks for being there for me as well.

Don't Give A Damn

It's how I feel now when I explore my thoughts/ideas that are quirky, like me. There was a time when I would reject such ideas. They weren't mainstream. I felt that they were (sometimes) vulgar, and it mattered to me 100% what people thought about me. I so wanted to belong. I killed my individuality. That angel in the room got a lot of millage out of this.

Now that I don't fear approach or that someone labels me odd for having offbeat thoughts I feel free to explore my mind. Go to the corners I felt embarrassed to visit. Pull out the ideas that stand out in my mind as worth doing. perverting any idea I may have used in the past that's not working for me. I need to have my works produced and published. If people get pissed or offended. Fine. part of writing is rejection. part of me doesn't want to know fame, but notoriety.

One day my quirky stories will become mainstream. It will be time to pass the torch.

Don't get me wrong. Not all I write will be fit for print/production, but to get to the good ideas, I have to love me, and not allow outside sources to shape my thoughts.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!

To my Bro and niece. Y'all are too special to me. You just don't know how I loves ya to pieces. :-)

Back To Some Basics

Sometimes I stress too much and don't write. Sometimes I stress and write. Sometimes I have stress and stress writing. I see a pattern, and I'm in the mood to break out of my funk. I need to type something. I need to feel my creative spirit. it needs to be with me. Star crossed lovers we are. Something like that. Soul-mated or just destined to stay together.

Hello Story Points

For those not in the know, when writing scripts a beat sheet (catching the "beats" of the story) will help you lay down the bones to your script. There's a short film I have been working on for a while and the beat sheet helped me nail down some ideas that were nagging the hell outta me. It has a lot of things that need resolving, however, the bare bones are down. There are a few more pieces of criteria to supply, but I think that will it as far as completion. Afterwards there will be a "cooling off" period which helps divorce the mind from the project, and then it can be addressed with new eyes.

BTW during the "cooling off" period will be the best time to start another beat sheet for another writing project. There will lots of cooling down. This is Beat sheet for project # 2 BTW. I hope to have 4-6 beat sheets by the end of summer quarter. At least during the break between summer and fall quarter I can develop some work. Furthermore, during the fall break the goal is to write nonstop.

Let me add each project has its own complexities, which makes it a little tricker. For example, the first project consisted of a beat sheet for four episodes. The second project is a short film and all three acts are covered. Project three will cover three issues of a sitcom, and project four will cover four episodes of a different program. The episode-based stories have three acts per episode (more work). Project five will likely be another short film, and project six will either be a feature film.

Divided

Part of me wants to maintain the energy this blog has and keep it going forever. The other part of me likes the raw uncensored version of me that can't be on a public blog. I can't reconcile them as I like the direction and this blog is my home. I would like to improve the focus of the writing, and will likely be focusing more on my creative endeavors, as well as my observations on life, and what i deem to be entertainment.

Little Jackie - The World Should Revolve Around Me

Cause Imani's music rocks. :-)

Empowered I

This image has a companion (male) piece that if I uncover , will post an image of. I never finished this, as the face is left incomplete. Still there's some hidden power the figure has, and I still like looking at it. I should do a series based on them. Still, the counterpart must be found so I can compare and contrast them. I need to see where I could take the figures. She strikes me as raw emotion and not vulnerable at all. Like she's empowered in spite of me putting details on her.

And Now Kind Sir, Where We Go From Here?

It's time to delve deeper into the the craft of fiction writing. I want to be able to stop improvising (passive), and taking the driver's seat of writing (active). There are some things I need to have to feel better about writing in any genre, and any medium. First things first. Improv writing is ok for a draft , but not the final product. Second, I need to know why I am writing this story, and what I want to say with it. More control in technique and content must be at the forefront. Needless to say there is a lot of work to do, but I'm not mad about that. It's who I am, and what I do.

BET pt2(BLACK EXPLOITATION TELEVISION)

Twice is a charm.

BET (BLACK EXPLOITATION TELEVISION)

Because it doesn't pull the punches. :-)