The Last Post of 2007

I am closing the year with these last entries. Everything else will be saved for 2008. Again I wish everyone a Happy New Year, and hope you do have resolutions you really desire to make come true. I truly feel a positive change coming on, so I am hoping that I am able to share the positive energy with my friends and family. If positive vibes were wealth I’d share it with y’all because no one cannot live without love. Real love and wealth is something you can’t buy. Sounds paradoxical, but the power to succeed, the power to create, and the power of love are stronger than anything I know. All powers can change you, and some for the better.

Peace, love, and success my friends and family. I await the great changes that shall come our way.

Make It Work for You

Writing is a business. A job, if you will. It is a self-starting job that requires the artists to get off of his lazy duff and get things done. In other words, what you waiting for to get things done?
Writing is an art, and it is a gift of communication. Where would our lives be without the written word?

Writing is empowerment.

• Where do we see ourselves in the next four years?
• Is there a business plan in place?
• How have our long term goals being implemented?
• When do we want to be empowered?

Life Right Now: Rise

Right now it’s not about your past holding you back. Right now is not about negative people who are toxic to your psyche and body. Right now is the time to take a few moments for yourself. Right now is really about you and your well being. Right now is the time to improve your life.

If the pain hurts, grab hold of it. Make that disdain work for you. Don’t let yourself fall under its control. Right now you were not made for nothing. Don’t let someone treat you otherwise. Don’t treat yourself otherwise. Rise above all that constrains you. Take control of your life today. Find your support. Look towards a future you will have.

Take a step towards a better life for you. Be compassionate to yourself, as you may have given so passionately to others. You are worthy of a life filled with good times, dignity, and quality.

Fears In Writing

One of my biggest fears is my inability to write. I never call it writer’s block. More like constipation. It’s all there, and I am afraid to let it onto paper. Yes I am afraid of the many ideas within me. It’s a somewhat irrational fear, but there is some logic in my woes. My fear is that I have so many ideas and I don’t know if I can commit to all of them. Think about it. I have ideas for short stories, novels, movies, and comics. I am scared that I will be overwhelmed with projects and get nothing done. Today is the day I write whatever, because its time I face this fear. It so is time for me to break that old wall, and let the sunshine in.

My next fear is breaking out of my comfort zone. For those not in the know, the comfort zone is what keeps me in check, keeps me safe and, (duh) comfortable. Well that wall goes out too. It’s time to look at what I am writing with a critical and analytical eye and attempt to see what I am writing, and what I want to explore. It’s a trip into the unknown, and I have the support, but some journeys must be taken alone.

• Perhaps I should have a writing system for new projects:
• Short stories/prose: I need at least six typewritten pages.
• Flash fiction: Completed rough draft.
• Scripts, at least 10 typed pages (unformatted)

2008 Is Near: Clap Your Hands, Stomp Your Feet

My title is liberally borrowed from Ingrid Chavez' song "Heaven Must Be Near."

The year 2008 is our year family and friends. I claim this year for us. We will have success. It will be positive, and very beautiful. We will be inspired to work harder in 2009 for a better life. The things we look for the most are in front of our eyes all the time. We simply need to see what's in front of us. I believe in us.
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Now playing: Ingrid Chavez - Heaven Must Be Near
via FoxyTunes

The Holiday Adventures With Mom

Went to the Mall with Mom. Let me say if was anyone else, I would be very leery of why they dragged me to this place, but for Mom I would. I loathe crowds, because they work my nerves with bad ass kids everywhere, and blocking the walkway. I was very annoyed. Got out of the coffee line (what?) because the wait and the kids were bothering me. Y’all know I don’t give up coffee so easily, right. I managed to get my hands on some white chocolate macadamia nut cookies! OMG I was stressed relived.

Never mind that we both forgot our umbrellas, and it rained when we went into Books-A-Million. Darn rain. LOL. Rain brings cold with it. I need to put some more blankets on the bed tonight. My friend was there. Hadn’t seen her in like months. I was so happy to see her. Spotted a friend’s daughter as well. Didn’t expect that. Hadn’t talked to her Mom in a while (like 2 years).

Had a family dinner at Red Lobster, which was ok. RL was so crowded, that it was a little irritating. I suppressed my disdain. It was family time, and it was worth hearing this woman cackle like she was about to cast a spell on people. I think if I had a dog, she would get him too.

Well Mon and I went to see the big lights in the park. It was very pretty, and I hope to have some pics posted for you soon (after I get back to DSL). Still it was nice to see. Afterwards we stopped for ice cream. We’re both lactose intolerant, and knew better, but it was a small cup.

My Khakis, Myself: Who I Am

Washed the khakis today. These are the work clothes. I like them, but I need more. Every time I stop at Old Navy, they never have my size. It takes a while to get the correct size. They need more colors. I want a little more variety. I may have to slide on over to JCPenny. Let’s hope they have some colors worth looking at. I am so an Earth-tone khaki man. My shirts, however say that I am all over the place. Sometimes I look stylish and very close to professional. Other times I am very eclectic and so individual. I refuse to completely conform.

Simply My Saturday

Nothing much to write here other than dial-up sucks so bad, and I am tired of trying to be patient. Trying to watch Scary Movie 4 and finding it some of it filly, and some of it bland. I suppose the only thing left is to watch it through. Hoping to watch MirrorMask afterwards. Watched two episodes of Escaflowne last night. I want to see more.

Saving Some For Later

I wrote a science fiction prose story a good while ago, then abruptly scrapped developing it. I decided to read it again. I have to say I have fresh eyes on this story, and want to complete it, and send it to publishers. All I can say is I gave my protagonist a distance personal, and strength that I see clearly. I will at least expand what I wrote, and edit it as needed. Who knows, this story may need another catnap from me.

I have a fantasy story I wrote a while ago, and I edited it a while ago too. It has all sorts of handwritten notes on it. So while cleaning up I found it. I have to read it, and the notes I supplied, because I believe it deserves a looking at. I may fall in love with it too. If not I will save it again for later. What I don’t feel at the moment I will fall back in love with. Of that I am sure.

Grosstacular Dining

Did I ever mention the local Starbucks has flies? Lots of flies. It was all in the deserts area. U know I will be skipping that area forever! I can’t be digesting maggots and flies trapped in icing. Crossed off the local Subway when one of the people was eating the chicken out of the bin. The round the corner Quiznos had a dead fly in a friend’s salad.

Sometimes it pays to prepare your own food and be happy about. I can make my own coffee too.

The Writing Life

Entered a writing contest. Let’s hope I make it to round two, because that would be where I want to go. Been working on my portfolio, a collaboration for the writing contest, and life. Who knew a 300 spoof would be so challenging. To those not in the know, it’s the kinda challenge I sink my teeth in, like Dracula to the sexy virgin’s neck from movies (notice he NEVER bites an ugly virgin). Saving it for marriage? Don’t worry, Dracula ain’t gonna get that ugly chick. Would Dracula bite a male virgin? I sense an idea. I just had this idea of someone questioning Dracula’s sexuality, and possibly getting stomped for it. How do you make the undead sexually insecure? Does or should a writer fear the reaction of the public?

Because I Said So

Happy Holidays all. I am having a good time relaxing and enjoying myself. Special thanks to J for treating me to the movies. I had a good time. I so owe you. I also owe you because you asked about me updating my blog. For the record, I outdid last year’s post count by one post. I will endeavor to add to that. Please be patient, Y’all I am working with dial up.

Was lucky and saw two excellent movies (via DVD) I will write my reviews on all the movies I saw shortly. I’d like something detailed for my own satisfaction.

Christmas went off without too many complications. I was late. Not so late y’all have to send out a search party, but late enough to set back my travel time. Granny decided she didn’t want to celebrate with the fam. I’m like what’s up with that? She’s a loner at heart. I just know it. I love visiting my peeps. They give me strength and that is something I take home with me.

Here is to the positive power of thinking, and it bears repeating. I claim the year 2008 as my year to succeed. Again I pray my family and friends are there with me to share the success. For those who hate blog redundancy, I am here to tell you I will say this all through the year. Please come aboard so that you to may share in the success.

The Christmas Eve Tease

Yes, the building was open today. I got so many calls from people who wanted to know we were open. It's kinda funny. It's not like I show up to the workplace to answer the phone for fun. I know that people were unsure, so it merely tickled me. Better to ask than to show up and find us closed. How embarrassing would that be.

It was so darn cold this morning, and I had to get up earlier than usual. I was so unprepared for the cold and it felt like I was not going to make it on time today on time. Thankfully I do not have the Christmas blues, and am feeling rather calm and cool, like I simply want to stay in the moment of calmness that is upon me.

I got a gift from a co-worker that I didn't expect. A cool shirt from Old Navy. Oh it so fits my style. Thanks N. :-) You made my day.

429

Ok, this post means I have officially tied the posting amount from last year. I am happy to go the distance, although I slacked off in November, but I know I was going to make it to rival the amount of last year at least. Let's hope I can get some more interesting aspects of my life on type.

Compelled

What started off as a script for a spoof on 300 has become it's own creature. literally the characters are taking me places that I was unaware of. I am loving the development of the script. I worked on some edits, to give the story clarity, and found myself with a complete seven pages. It's so nowhere done, but it has a life of it's own. It breathes, and calls to me. I am compelled to write it further and further. God willing, I will complete my short film. This is what writing should be.

The Writing Continues

I am still working on the progress that is supposed to be the script. I have so many ideas, and try to figure ways to express them. It's gonna take me some time, but I suspect that I can get it done proper. I am enjoying every bit of my progress. I hope my other writing friends are enjoying themselves as well.

Soothe My body & Mind

Why is writing much more harder than it needs to be. All I need to do is make a writing statement, and that seems so far out of my mind that I fear I will not make one. I worry, I get sad, I want to scream. I'd like the rest of the world know I am frustrated with myself, and it for no being synchronized with me. I need to soothe my body and mind.

Changing the Game

For those not in the know, I run four blogs. Yes, I keep myself divided. I have been thinking of creating a dedicated blog, and keeping it specialized. I discussed with a couple friends about closing out blogs, or even restructuring them. Here is my tentative plan.

• Yeah, I Write This Blog is my parent blog. It’s where I write how I feel. There are no apologies for my own expression. Also it is my oldest blog, and I can’t give it up, in spite of dividing my attention.
• A Horse With No Name: May contain stuff from the parent blog, and more DWAM adventures. ;-)
• Neither Here Nor There: Is mainly to keep up with my peeps, so expect the posting updates to vary. Since the writing circle lives there, I may add more fiction writing content.
• #4 may be revamped, but it was supposed to be my “happy blog.” It discusses things that make me happy. I may create a new blog altogether dedicated to the things that bring me joy. For the record, you may not see the new blog until I have at least ten posts. I may simply incorporate it into my parent blog.

Speckled Butter Beans

Last Night I decided that I would make some speckled butter beans for today’s dinner. I will be making some hamburgers to go with them today. When I cooked the beans, it seemed I did not season them enough. Perhaps I did not have enough meat flavoring in them. I used smoked picnic, and I thought that was enough. Used cayenne pepper, Italian seasoning, a little salt, and garlic (sorry Night Swordsman). Still the flavor did not come through. Was I too stingy in the adding of seasoning?

Well, I am one not to give up, and I can taste the pepper. It’s very sneaky. You get the heat in a subtle way. I know its there. I’ve salted it enough. My greatest fear is over salting. I know the garlic is there. LMAO I can taste it in the background too. The salt not so much but the Italian seasoning is there. Perhaps the seasonings need some time to bond proper, and I was too eager for something that had a hint of flavor like Mom’s cooking.

Needless to say, this evening when I take it out of the fridge to cook, I will know what the deal is. Will the tastes I’ve craved be there? Will I be satisfied with what I have? Do I have to call my Mom and ask her what she puts in her food? BTW I am not messing with the pigtail or the briskets-smoked or fresh. LOL Time will tell indeed.

Kappa Mikey Goodness

LOLCATS

Ooops… Oh My

Yes, Aggie has this song in my head. LOL Not a bad song to have on my head. The song’s not why I’m writing this entry though.

I got my six pages of my script for the short film as desired, and ready to write two more pages for my own satisfaction, but then I took my short film in another (nearly wrong) direction. I say this because, what felt like a clever twist (for lack of a better word), was pushed too far. So far that the story stopped making sense. I hate when that happens. Come back to my muse. My short film needs us.

I took a break from it, because it pissed me off. Then I got ideas for my novel. When the floodgates open, they open. I decided to prep some of the foods for tomorrow’s dinner (speckled butter beans and burgers. That’s when I had this idea for one of the characters that did fall back in line with who they are, so I am pleased. Before the end of the day I will erase and replace the tangent writing with much more worthy scene.

One thing still bugs me. I still don’t know how long this film is.

Six Pages

If I can get my six pages of my short film done today. I will be happy. I'm being very improvisational, since I don't have a set time length. I suppose the story will stop itself. A lot of ideas come when I type them out. :-) This story was handwritten in November, so it's time to put it script format proper. Gotta get back to writing it. I needed to take a break from it for a hot moment, and email peeps. Yes, I am goofing off, but I needed it.

Why Does Heystacy Have Be Upset?

It is time to vent. So ok, I finally got a response about my having to take two boring (yet basic) English classes. The reason is that I am not and English major and that's what non-English majors have to take as preliminaries. Y'all my brain fries itself in situations like this. I am so spent on this. Did it take three months to tell me this? I am so confused by how complex this has become, and disappointed in how can anyone look at my transcripts and suggest that I need two classes I've surpassed when I was an undergrad.

My Academic Goals

I still would like to write comics, but that is only one of my goals. I want to write for stage and screen. I will write short stories and complete my novels. I want to create some video games as well. This means going out of my comfort zone, and thinking outside the box.

For my writing friends, I hope y’all have goals in mind, because when I am done with my MFA degree it’s into straight up writing full time.

P.S. I have to dust of my resume for my portfolio. I know I will be busy.

Professional Writing vs. Dramatic Writing

For those not in the know, I am in a professional writing program. I will learn about publishing, critiquing, creative nonfiction, and presenting. My job options will be diverse and hopefully with the MFA behind the degree, pay more.

I have fallen in love with my screenwriting class. Here I would learn about film and stage production, as well as the opportunities to produce my own plays or film. My job options would be very specific, but my talent will allow me to move around in theater and film/TV, which may be a boon.

What you do not know is that I love them both, and if I could double major, I would, so I don’t. A friend suggested that I speak with the head of the dramatic writing program because all we are doing is talking, right? No harm done. Well the dept. head of the DW program has been so kind to me, AND he told me what I needed to present in a portfolio. I need to present six scripts, not simply six good writing pieces.

What has the pro writing program done for me lately? It’s held me hostage. I have two basic English courses they want me to take and I am not down for that. I’ve been trying to resolve this matter for months now. It’s become irritating to me. I must give credit to my advisor, because she has been very receptive and responsive, but I do feel the ice grip of limbo.

Let’s recap: I have a department head who gives me the heads up on his program, and a program that gives me limbo. I love screen writing, and I want to do much, much more of it. Guys, what am I waiting on? This is how I became a painter. My then advisor, Cliff Peacock, told me what to expect from being a painter and being a studio art major in my undergrad years. The rest is history. Said goodbye to the old program and worked a studio art degree.

The Writing Police Cometh

*flashes badge*

Who's got some writing done?

Needless To Say...

...I have a few rewrites to consider. I'll be busy with them. I hope to at least get 25 posts before the end of the year, and I hope that the writing will give me strength. I have the feeling that some of my stories are shorter than i expected, and I still hope to experiment with the prose style. I believe that I have the start of a lovely moment. Let me not spoil it please.

Trying to Skate Uphill

What I have learned today about myself and about writing, is to not spend a great deal of time trying to describe the story, mini-series, novel, etc. (what it's about), but to write it out and see what happens. I have a lot of ideas I let fall to the wayside because I don't let my ideas flow. I try to restrict them, and that feels wrong.

If I learned anything from my screen writing class (and I knew form my many English classes), it is that I must throw away all preconceived notions. I must surrender to the pen, the keyboard. I must hear and feel what I write. I must listen to the characters speak (and they do), and I must let them set the paste and be who they truly are. It is truly difficult to let go of this kind of control. To understand the control, you must feel know what the control is.

For example, took extensive notes and ideas for my fantasy novel. The moment the novel strayed, I became upset, and was unwilling to finish it. I could not make the characters do as I wanted. They did not resemble the characters I so preciously took notes on. I refused progress because I could not have my way. Yes, it was all or nothing emo response to my own writing, and I admit I did not recognize the flaw until later down the line, with several alternate versions of chapter one, and with me now organizing my thoughts.

$50.00 and More

Remember that Rachel Ray show on Food Network called, $40.00 a Day. Well my version is called $50.00 for two weeks.

Had a $50.00 budget for groceries today. Went past that budget by $16.00. I am not too upset. If I had not put the limit in place, I may have spent $80.00-90.00. That’s too much of a good thing. Still, I will endeavor to restrict my budget to its proper $50.00. I gotta keep sticking to the budget.

DRAINED

I am tired as I write this, but I need to type out my blog, even if I don’t post it tonight. Cooked some BBQ ribs for the upcoming week’s dinner. They smell great. They just came out of the oven. OMG I love that smell. Tasted the3m. So tender and good. I wish i could share with the readers here.

I feel tired. More like a mental exhaustion. I am so going to take a bath and rest my nerves. Perhaps I should have a drink to settle my nerves. I need to have my food cool off before I go all lax on things though. I am thinking of French Toast in the morning.

Stacy’s Charleston Exodus 11-28-07

My Mom (so understandable) wants me to stay in Charleston a little longer (*like forever—parents LOL Gotta love em). I would, but it’s time to go back home. It’s been seven wonderful days in Charleston seeing the family and enjoying their company, but its time to return to my home and get to business. For the record I will miss them, but I can’t stay. Grand mom was not hearing that, but I got things to do.

First and foremost my printer is in need of use. I have been waiting to print out the stories I rewrote or rediscovered.

I need to sleep in my own bed, which is calling me like crazy with the cable tv and the DVD player.

I need some Stacy time. I’ve had seven days of family bliss, and I’ll settle for a few days of “Me time.” I invited my fam to come visit me. They know the deal. I would love for them to visit. They may need a get away.

It’s been bliss, but tomorrow I’m getting back to my apartment and this will all that there is. Big shout out to my family for the love and support.

You Know Your Peeps Are Crazy When…

...They suggest you take all your blogs, and LJ entries, then print them out as your M.F.A. Thesis in Contemporary/Professional Writing.

If I did I wouldn’t censor a damn thing. Take it as is or leave it. I'm gonna have some salty moments. Some people gonna hate it. DWAM goes back into my entries.

It intrigues me, because I thought of writing something raunchy and salacious for my own benefit, and because it’s art, man. Don’t censor me. Don't hate my thesis.

It's a little novel, and very suspect, in that I can be a wise ass and keep it real. Middle child syndrome at it's peak.

If I Told You That…

…Is a song by Whitney Houston. It’s from her CD, My Love is Your Love. This is a very good CD with a very strong R&B music selection, and power ballads (signature Whitney).

I mention this song because there is an alternate version of the song, which was made into a duet with George Michael. This was such an error of judgment on someone’s part. First and foremost, I like both artists, but not together. Whitney’s voice on this song is dynamic. Her range is amazing. She’s working those notes. She makes singing seem effortlessly.

George’s voice, next to hers, is extremely flat. He can’t complement her style or range. For the song to blend well she would have to restrain her vocals, and hold back a lot to make it cohesive. I can’t hear her signing like that, not when she can belt like she does. While you hear her range, you get nothing from George. It’s like pairing the Flash against a turtle. She dusted him. For me it makes the song distracting, and uneven. Definitely it irritated my ears.

In this case, her and his love was not my love. They were mean to me. I can say, since I also saw the video, at the very least, George knows how to dance, which Whitney has yet to master. It is a dance track. What’s the holdup Whit?

The Affair

I'm having an affair. It started in the kitchen, then I took it to the bedroom. Very indulgent of me. I don't care who knows at this point. Ben & Jerry's Banana Split is the bomb. What? Y'all thought I was all over some married chick? Only is she's holding Ben & Jerry's and wants to watch me eat it would I think about it.

Stacy’s Story Revising Workshop

Dusted off some old files and found some stories worth looking over and improving. I found several comic book scripts, short stories, and three novels. For once I am not overwhelmed, but enthusiastic about the possibilities of improving my writing skills. I know I can tell t he story, but I’d love to increase my wealth of character development & growth. So with fresh eyes, I dare to look at my stories with a positive attempt at making changes.

I am finding common themes, and working to perfect my stories. I need to add a few movie scripts in there. I didn’t even get to all the comic book scripts in there In need to redevelop. With the two aforementioned, there is no way I can do them all within one period. Still I would like for them to have some order, and will thus create a file for the comics as well. So now I have separate files for my short stories, poetry/songs, comics, and novels.

Began experimenting with the language I use in prose for my short stories. The first was my erotic short story, but the other is my novel (put the poetic prose away some time ago-another case of lost then recovered file).

This reminds me of a short film I was working on (handwritten). Better get that typed up and ready to get out of the box.

11/27/07 Bringing Up Pops

Visited my Dad today. He was doing ok. He took me to lunch and we talked about our lives. Not a bad exchange.

My cell phone was suspended today, I was short on the bill. OMG Why did I let it get this far? Paid the difference. The guilty party who didn’t pay his part, will have to pay me directly. It will balance itself out. I am not pleased with that.

My bills have piled on, and I feel like I need to focus squarely on getting things under control, or face some very painful bites of late fees and penalties. It’s time to be proactive, and settle the matter.

Remember, when you travel, don’t forget the charger for your cell phone. Fortunately I have a car charger, otherwise my phone would be off, and I would not make a single call.

11/26/07 Another Good Day

Tried the eggnog creamer in my coffee today. Which is, by the way, better than the nasty ass eggnog latte. Maybe because I can control the amount of flavor, which is much better than I expected. It doesn’t beat hazelnut flavor, but it is a quirky twist that I wouldn’t mind trying again.

My bro is still trying to figure out his Blackberry. I admit that they are neat and I should not hold it, as its temptation factor tripled, but I didn’t fall off the wagon. I am not getting a Blackberry.

Last night I wrote and edited a couple of my stories. I need to print out a copy of my works so I can mark on them. Need to find and work on some older stories I am sure I have lying around my apartment. Several pieces have got to make it to publishing. I insist on that.

Been thinking of converting some of my comic book scripts to movies or television shows. Not sure how or when, but the desire to make the material producible and publishable is appealing to me. It requires more work, but I don’t mind if it will bear fruit.

Watched Elizabeth last night on Flix (I think it was Flix network). I should get this on DVD. Love this movie. I like historical fiction. This being the story of Queen Elizabeth the first is parts moving, dark, and stylish. The costumes, though unusual to me, are very well done. I forget the names of the characters, but it’s very good. The “sequel” will be in theaters soon. I want to see it.

Can I Haz Blackberry?

Both my brothers have Blackberry phones. They look so sleek and sophisticated. It’s the perfect expensive toy for a man (or woman) on the go. How positively enchanting it would be for me, and with so many possibilities of use.

I’m cool and sophisticated. Should I not have a Blackberry? I want to be cool like them. LOL Sadly, it’s not going to happen. I do find the Blackberry appealing, but I have other things on my agenda, and can’t afford it or the calling/data plans attached to it.. Still I wanted to be in the cool club, and not be the middle child with his different phone.

*Whines, pouts, then gets over it.* Problem solved. *Sees iPhone.* OMG I am so in love!!! Forget a Blackberry, can I haz iPhonz?

11/23/07 The Day After Thanksgiving…

…And this time payback is for real!

So far, today is fair. It’s a little cold, and it was so warm yesterday. My Aunt is dropping by so I hope to spend some time with her. It’s rare to find the family in the same location, but it’s good when I can see people.

Got my headphones, and playing some good music so I can write this entry and tune out the surroundings. This is my secret to writing. Back when I caught the buss everywhere, in order to drown out other conversations, I needed my Discman. With it on I could read, do homework, draw and enjoy the trip better.

Auntie never showed, but we talked on the phone.