Hello. Its raining. Don't like it. I feel like I'm gonna keep from being under the weather. Must run errands. More on that later.

Decided to give Caprica a chance via OnDemand since its free.

Congestion

I have yucky chest congestion.   I loathe the discomfort and the meds.  Not sure if this is a cold or allergy.   My temperature's on its own course.  I my temperature was a little high today.  Started sweating.   The congestion broke up some.   I feel that it will be better. 

Nyquil pills are a must since my congestion is intensifying.

In the mood for a burger again. Gonna wolf it down along with some fries!

Another cold day. I hurried to my ride and getting it warmed up now. Temperature gage barely moved. Gonna wait until it does. Should break out the thermals.

Four Stories Project II

Well I originally wussed out on the four stories project, by not completing a damn thing before bad.  I failed myself that was more than shameful.  I call myself a serious writer when I would not take the time to write twenty sentences.   If I did them on the computer, I would get them done quicker. I should have at least wrote one of them down on paper.   I was lazy.  I decided to play Zuma, Kingdom Hearts, and Meteos.  I had a good time with each.

I also listened to that voice in my head that told me the stories weren't "versatile enough."  I was wrong.  Like novelists don't write in the same genre, or screenwriters for that matter.  I was a fool to turn away from something that I love.  If a new concept warranted it, then it would find a way to the surface.

Free time presented itself today and I told myself that I was going to write at LEAST two paragraph for four concepts today.  I did just that.  Intially I felt I cheated with project 2 because I had a partial beat outline concieved from previous works.  I did manage to make up for that by writing a lot for story three.  Not that Story two was unclear to me at all.  I wanted to integrate the newer material/ideas.

I have a story five and six

Working out some ideas that I like. More on this later. Its so cold outside. Moving my car, which needs to warm up before I drive off.

I am most hungry. I should eat breakfast. It will give me the boost I need for the day, instead of my tummy growling.

Decided I wanted a burger for dinner in spite of having pasta at home. Gotta get me some more Epsom salt cause I need my muscles to relax.

Four Stories Project

I have a new project that will be fun tonight.   I will write out the first paragraph out to four stories.   They don't have to be correct, but I want at bare minimum five sentences written down about each plot.  Tomorrow I will add five more sentences, and so forth.  The goal is to have a specific vision of each story.  The concepts may not pan out, but instead of thinking of what could happen, I will have something concrete I can edit for the sake of clarity.     

I feel a little blah and tired. Today was a migraine coupled by ibuprofen, and a trip back to bed. Not my clearest day. Watched parts of Tin Man too.

Feet hurt but not crampy. Resting on my bed. Watching "Criminal Minds."

This Is Bananas

Well, not really.   Let me explain.   I went to the grocery store after work.  my feet were killing me.  I walked past the bananas saying to myself, "I should pick up some."  I walked away wanting to get off my feet.   I decided to buy the ingredients to make Chicken Alfredo.  I got home, started cooking.  Boy were my feet tired.

While sitting and waiting, the dreaded foot cramp shows up.  Needless to say it was mildly uncomfortable.  Since I was online, I updated my Facebook status.  A friend comments that potassium would help with the pain.   Namely bananas.  Of course I walked past them in the store even though I wanted some.

So I suffered though the pain and took a multi-vitamin which has potassium, BUT I'm told the banana's effectiveness would be much quicker. 

By the way, the Chicken Alfredo was great.  Used shredded Parmesan and mozzarella cheese along with heavy cream in the sauce.   Tastes delish.  

Its cold outside! Waiting for my car to warm up before driving off. Gotta let the engine get power and heat
"Dress You Up" is the song to start the day.

Thanks God I wore the "cozy shoes" today. Needed to let my feet relax a little. Been feeling like it made me more tense. The new shoes do look good though.

Gonna have a steak buddy! Ribeye is the bomb!

Dunno what's for dinner tonight. Last night was chicken, mashed taters, and coleslaw. Want something good.

Should make chicken alfredo this weekend. I am hoping to make the sauce creamer! Yeah! Good and rich cooking!

I don't know what to fix for dinner. Thought about Chinese food. Not sure about anything. Should do seafood. Mainly cause its simple.

Writing More

I need to write more for this blog.  Classes are over, we're on break, and I think I can spare five sentences a day.   Yeah, I can.

Well was inspired to write out a plot for a fairy tale/urban fantasy.  The thing I like is that I can write and it doesn't have to be perfect.  All it needs to be is on the page.  I need to get the gist of the idea onto the paper so that I have a rough idea what things look like.  Some ideas feel better than others, but I don't know until I commit to it!

I'm happy to take the time to go through the process.  I can tell you the story is a rough as having sandpaper for skin.  LOL  It needs to be that way.  I need to tighten it up, and get it aligned with my story structure tools.  it's a challenge,, and the stuff that I like to do!  

I am most hungry. Need to eat a meal like now. Left my pen at my desk. How am I to write something in my notebook? Too hungry to worry.

Been hungry for a full meal. Want to catch the second half of Alice tonight.

Today I misplaced my wallet. Spent a good deal of time trying to find it. Found it hanging in the pants I had on yesterday.

My Life

It’s been an interesting day.  Forgive me for not posting sooner.   It’s like I went through a dry patch of academics and working.  I am more than happy that I made it through the fall quarter.  I felt very overwhelmed with classes and work.   The all-nighters, I hope will never be repeated, UNLESS the writing IS my job.  For two days I felt like I didn’t know what was going to happen. 

The good news is that I passed my classes.  I got one an A and a B.   That’s not bad.  Taking this victory and walking away very happy.   I did want two A’s though.

Did I mention I have two quarters left of graduate school.   I'm nervous and excited.      

Encore has the nerve to play "Batman and Robin." SMH

Worst southern meal ever: grits and pork n' beans!

This does mean I skipped the coffee.

Mmmm I should not have egg nog, but Lactaid should make it better.

I'm cold. Want something hot to drink. Coffee's in mu future. Don't wanna do anything. Beta get up.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Chilling for the moment. Must have a happy holiday.

New Moon | Spill.com Movie Reviews

I so need to post more updates.   Writing my final paper.  Busy, busy, busy.  

Cooking: The Conclusion

For those who wondered about my cooking: The peas and rice turned out well.  They taste good.  I feel accomplished.  Now I don't have to cook for a few days.  :)  

The weather today was very warm.  I felt hot outside.  Traffic around my way still confounds me.  people drive below the speed limit and some cross lanes without so much as a glance back to see what's in the next lane, or use a turn signal.   Weird! 

Calling

Spoke to a few peeps on the phone today. It's nice to talk with them. I love being able to communicate with people. Some can talk longer than others, but I enjoyed having that moment. With there was more time off. Time off seems to come and go with the blink of an eye. Thank God the holiday break is upon us. Many people spend days upon days shopping. I just want to relax and visit some family and friends.

Also did some editing for a friend. I have a couple more pages to go so I decided to break it up a little as I have a few other things to take of. Will complete those edits tomorrow.

What's For Dinner?

I'm cooking today. I'm making field peas and rice. Yes, my southern roots are showing. Called my Mom for a few cooking tips. Mom's cooking knowledge and skills really makes food golden. It's truly a treasure to have someone important to give support when needed.

I used simple seasonings: onions (red and yellow), salt, Cayenne pepper, ham, and garlic. Nothing I found too complicated to complete. The one mistake I nearly made was adding the ham too soon. If you let it cook with the peas, it will become tasteless and shred in the pot. Thanks to Mom's for correcting my mistake.

Halloween: My Life So Far

It's been a busy, busy month and I have yet to slow down and give my blog a decent update. How embarrassing. Well it is Halloween. No, I'm not dressing up in a costume. It is also the start of the film festival in Savannah. It lasts for about a week, and I will see three films. All of which I hope to enjoy. Will keep you posted.

Finals are here, and I have a lot of writing to do. This quarter I have TWO Cinema Studies classes (World Cinema & Narratology) so that's two 15 page papers (thirty pages total). I promise not to stress out. I must retain control for the sake of order.

Good morning world!

Waiting for students to catch the bus. Man this drags out. Time is a game. A sad game.

I am hoping to sleep well tonight. I need to have my strength for class and work.

Was There, Did That

I've been offline for the bulk of the weekend. I decided that there were things I needed to get done that could not be done online. Some of it was simply going outside and enjoying the sunlight. Other parts were cooking (made a vegetarian chili, which turned out good, BTW) and watching films, which is what a CS major does. Currently watching and enjoying Underworld: Rise of the Lycans.

Making a List, Checking it Multiple Times

From last night I went into making my writing list more clearer. Many of the stories/concepts have a sentence or two about what they are, and their genre. I tried making distinctions between screenplay and television show. A couple of them are prose short stories. So far I don't think I'll change the prose stories.

I feel the list and content still needs a LOT of work. Part of me edits for content, the other part begs for clarity. I want to get the tentative protagonists AND antagonists on the list. This may help me see the story better, and develop a stronger plot summary for each potential project.

The Delayed Birthday Post

I wanted to say that life's a little different now. Woke up knowing that I had a lot of things I wanted to get done, and be done with. Want to break away from the old ways of goofing off. For those not in the know, I have two quarters left in graduate school. I'm nervous, excited, scared, and sad at the same time. I'm so scared of the future, yet it makes me happy to know I'm progressing beyond where I was. It makes me scared to take on an unknown chapter in life. It saddens me to know that I will be leaving some things behind.

I keep asking myself, what am I gonna do? How do I handle life now? I know I will be OK, but worrying about it is part of the deal. Gonna pray about this.

I was having one of those moments when I didn’t know what to do with myself. It’s a lazy Saturday. I started the morn with congestion, and I also wanted to make a baked Mac & cheese dish for the first time. Of course, I didn’t have enough ingredients and made a pit stop at the grocery store.

I took some meds for the congestion, forgetting that they make me drowsy and sluggish. I slept through No Country for Old Men, and woke up feeling weak. So now I know what the deal is to my sluggishness.

Watched Law & Order: SVU. Had the feeling the daughter would kill again. She had “damaged” written all over her.

It was Shisho who correlated the economy with the lack of posts among the lot of us. Has anxiety robbed us of our voices? Have we turned to sheeps?

Again I should put mire effort into serious posts. As it stands I fail to impress myself. I need my OCD streak to work for me and get postings on the page.

Interesting: the older I get the less I worry about what others think.

I should have prayed more, as I went to work today with a migraine. Well thank the Lord that the pain went away, and the weekend refreshed me!

I was very stressed and tired. I felt as if I was gonna run down and fall apart from being so busy and needing more sleep. Classes and work have me hopping like mad.

Then the weekend came. I got up late and I simply watched movies and rested my nerves. Didn’t spend any heavy time thinking about much, which of course, meant while I was lying down, a lot of ideas came to me.

So I feel renewed and hope that I can keep the energy I have from the weekend, until I get another weekend to rest.

Q & M

Migraine notwithstanding, Today’s topic is “questions and methodologies.” I find myself asking “what questions do I want answered today?” Now this may seem like a bother, but as a writer I often write on impulse. I’m answering questions I am not fully conscious of. These answers come fourth, but nowhere do I think about where they come from.

Well now I wonder out loud about what I am asking, and how does this affect what I write. Let me start with both my nonfiction and fiction material changes at this point. Why am I writing this blog? What is its purpose in the past and now?

The answers could stun me.

The New Academic Adventure

It’s been a hectic week, as classes begun, and I was busy, busy, busy! Kids from all over needed help, and I was there to lend a hand. It’s what I do. It’s who I am! I was worried about my stress levels going up, and they did, but I’ve been in tougher situations before. I’ve dealt with them in a professional manner. I know I can do the same here.

I’ve taken my days off with the proper attitude of relaxing. Stress reduces itself so well. Things fall into place. I am so feeling good. Had Chinese last night. Now way I was cooking. LOL.

Watched a few movies. Kill Bill Vol 1 & 2, Lord of the Rings The Two Towers, Hellboy II: The Golden Army, and a few episodes of Teen Titans.

Classes for me also began. It’s not hectic yet, but I’ve got two 15-page papers to deliver. I know I’m gonna be burning the midnight oil on several days. I have to get myself organized or I face the stress of class and work taking over. It’s all about self-control.

Outside right now enjoying some fresh air. Gotta go open the windows and let some air inside.

Should have wrote more of a blog entry. I have been most lazy. I shall endeavor to write something worth posting. Today I'm loafing on my couch.

I drank water this morning. Not the usual sugar based goodness I crave. Need to write more blog posts. Hope day stays ok.

Stomach growls. Eyes feel heavy. Want to sleep. Need to stay up. Options most annoying.

Does one write to be liked and popular, or does one feel express ideas through words that may not fit the norm.

I have 15 mins before I pick up my new glasses. Very excited. Still waiting for my contacts to arrive.

Gone to the eye doctor for a new pair of glasses. Hadn't worn glasses since mid 2005. I intended to keep it that way but eye allergies make contacts a pain.

Getting my screenplay rewrites on!

Charleston looks nice. We are supposed to ha e a cookout today. I marinated steaks and chicken. We'll see how that goes.

Wrote and did research yesterday. Started a review for the CINEs blog but kept having to stop to help others. Decided on Thai food for lunch.

Having lunch. Wanted to take something from home but I wake up too late to get things done. Last minute cramps my style. Gotta improve my productive time.

Odd. In spite of doing exhaustive papers for finals, I have a need to write more.

Visiting my Grandmom. She's in good spirits. Everyone in Charleston seems busy but I managed to see the right people. I want steak as a reward!

Savannah's traffic gets congested. Felt most irritated took nearly an hour to get from point A to B. Want to go see Inglorious Basterds with my HG.

Clothes drying. Ready to write. Maybe I needed days away from it to form a vision.

It's laundry time and I feel inspired to write today. After doing laundry I will do at least three pages today for my paper. Will do more later in the night.

Stuck In the Throat

Like a fish out of water, I seem to be out of place as we head into my weekend. Finals are here, and I have yet to put together cogent projects. In fact my mind cannot wrap itself around the concept of working these pages out. I am so mad at this. I need to be prepped and completing projects. I made myself sit down and write, but I feel so limited. So used. So bland. I haven’t even gotten the words on the page yet. How can defeat come before trying?

Its been raining all week, mixing the heat with water to make things all muggy. Not pleased with the outcome. Hungry as can be today. Gonna wolf down a burger!

Yaaaaay! Abstract/paper topic approved! Gonna go some wicked writing this weekend! Gonna be my best paper!

I have a paper topic now and an abstract. Hoping my prof will not gonna reject it (fingers crossed). That way I can get this thing done.

OMG! The car is so hot today! Opening it made me feel like I was baking some clay. Not the best of sensations I'd like to share, but a sensation nonetheless.

Convinced that I need a nap, BUT may not get one as I am busy. Picking up some salad for a meal before working. I feel it will help in the long run.

Several Deadly CINEs

I have a new blog, as the title suggests, called Several Deadly CINEs: My Life in Cinema Studies and Screenwriting. I will keep both blogs going with fresh material.

I want you all to know that the blog you're reading is my personal blog, and CINEs focuses more on my Cinema Studies experiences. Personal can be random, but it remains at its core, a blog about my life.

I'm very excited about the new blog. I hope you will follow it as well.

Edited some of my screenplay while I waited on car repairs. It was a mixed bag of news as the compressor for the AC needs replacing. Big boooo to this.

Car Repairs

For the summer the AC in my car wasn’t working. I didn’t have the money at first to repair it, so I endured many hot days to work and classes. For the record I need circulating air on me. Especially when it rains, and I have to wind the windows up.

Needless to say last week I decided that I would take my car in for an oil change and have the AC looked at. Well that extended to today, and I found out that I need to replace my car’s battery, the belts, and the coolant needs cleaning.

So today this gets done while I type this out. I keep hoping all the AC needs Freon only! PLEASE need freon only. Don’t know how high I can go with the repair bill.

I still need to buy some grocery. I should have made a list which I may do while I wait.

Love August

I need to post, and not the usual five sentences post, but something more significant post.   Needless to say we’re gonna start with the five sentence post as a warm up to life.  It’s the new month, and I want to put some good entries on the map.  Let’s hope between classes and work that I have something to talk about.  You know, that thing called life should be worth discussing.  

Tired...

I needed an online break. Eyes are tired. It bothers me not to read so I will rest.

Really, I think I'm overworking myself, which can be embarrasing.  Still its nice NOT to do anything other than relax.  I feel better now and I'm willing to work on my projects as well.  I have a cover letter to complete. 

Let's hope this new month brings on good vibes. 

Feeling ok. House sprayed for bugs. I am falling back on being tired.

Watches clips from "Strangers in Paradise."

Power's out. Darn it! Hope it will be on by morning.

Top Ten Reasons I Know I Need AC in My Car During This Hot-Ass Summer:

Top Ten Reasons I Know I Need AC in My Car During This Hot-Ass Summer:

1.    The Human Torch died of heat exhaustion while riding shotgun with me.

2.    Iceman melted, prompting a “very special X-Men” comic in which Wolverine & the X-Men trash my ride. 

3.    The devil tapped on my door and told me,  “Why you torturing yourself? Not even Hell’s that hot!”

4.    Dr. Manhattan said he’d rather make out with Laurie’s Mom than sit his blue ass on those hot seats.

5.    My skin tone was like Casper’s before I got into the car.

6.    Went to the pick up some bread and cheese.  Came back home with toast and soup. 

7.    My latest mixed CD straightened itself out.

8.    When I closed my eyes, it was like a day in Baghdad.

9.    I have the worlds most expensive EZ-Bake Oven! 

10.    When I open the windows I can hear the car say “hallelujah!” 

My tummy growls in class. Its got a mind of its own. Damn I'm sleepy too.

Watches "Cloverfield."

Summer Screeenplay Updates!

Still working on my screenplay.   I was happy with getting to page 80 a while back, BUT it’s not finished.  Since I felt like I didn’t have any ideas to finish it, I decided to edit the screenplay for clarity, grammar, and dialogue.  So far I found a couple of characters’ voices.   I’m more than pleased for that.   Learned to C-U-T!   It’s hard but there are lines and scenes I could see that had to go.  Some of the scenes were too long, and went nowhere. 

I can say with these edits I now have ideas about the ending.  I got a lot of work before I get there, however, I know that I can reach the end.   I’m dedicating my weekends to getting at least ten pages done.  So far I got twelve!  I will get at least four more done tomorrow.  If I go over that mark, I am more than happy.  So nervous, excited and petrified about the progress!

Making dinner and then loafing. May finish off this red wine bottle while I wait.

Working on getting organized better. Will make a stronger effort to write more stories. Will post full entries at least twice week. I feel good about this.

Reaches the "don't give a damn" zone! It feels fantastic!

I Was Thinking

I was thinking what are my short and long-term goals?  I do have them, but I never think about them.  I ignore the progress of the goals, and every now and then, I have to remind myself of the things I want to do. 

I need my goals defined so that I can get things done in an efficient manner, as opposed to the carefree, it will fall into place manner I am used to doing.   I need to be able to revise and update all plans as needed. 

So what do I want to do? 

• I want to have my MA before I turn 40.
• Do I want a PhD?
• I need four scripts ready for potential agents.
• I need FYZ finished
• I want the beat outline for TG completed.
• Loose weight/eat healthier
• Get Machismo completed/published
• Create several comics (independent), including expanding the Machismo universe, and all-ages title, and whatever else comes to mind.
• More spirituality in my life.  Update my resume.

I need a meal and to keep my place clean. I'm rather chaotic right now but a little structure won't kill me. Also I I should lay off the fraps.

Feel a little tired today. Would like to veg out with sleep but that won't happen. Need a new pair of pants for work too. My feet hurt.

I am happy that I got some editing in today. Will work on it some more.

Very soon I'm a need a latte or frap. Either one will do.

Got out of bed. Went to class. The day is good so far. Craves a snack and a nap.

Must learn to replace fear with control.

Watching "Play Misty for Me" damn that chick was serious about having that Coke.

Ok its hawt outside and I need to cool down . Forgot to send "Midnight Cowboy" back to Netflix. Will do that on Monday. I need to relax.

Realizes that the DIY method goes hand in hand with making things happen.

Feeling a bit hungry. Decided on salad today. No its not for eating healthy. I simply want to eat my greens.

I am hungry. Getting a meetball sub. Hunger will fade away like a dream.

I don't know what to do with myself. I will have to remedy this ASAP!

I am tired already. Got some homework projects to complete. Its. Ot an all nighter, so it can be done today with no stress. Beside I thought it out ready.

Empire Strikes Back is uncommonly clear on Spike tv today. I'm rather fascinated but will move on.

Don't have much to say. It was hot as I ran errands. Glad I came back home and chilled. Literally. Ate leftovers. RSI NY is on. Drifting into sleep.

Must learn to keep the writing simple & clear from now on.

Break time. Will have a cheesesteak for dinner. Left off the soda as I had a lot of soft drinks today and I need to top off the bottle of water I bought.

Anne Rice II

Let me elaborate outside of a post from my BB.  I loved reading Anne Rice novels.  Then the quality kinda failed.   It got boring to me.  it was time to go as a reader.  At the time I took her books up My family was going through a lot of changes:  My parents separated, and my Mom had cancer.  I needed something to fill my mind.  Rice fit the bill.  The crisis passed, and I still read her books.   All was good.    Then the well dried up.  Nothing of hers enchanted me anymore.   Its not to say she could not write.  i was not feeling the material.  I suppose it happens to all of us.   I don't think I ever found a writer I was willing to read several of their books like I did with Rice Let's see what I read:

• Queen of the Damned
• Tale of the Body Thief
• The Mummy
• Memnoch the Devil
• Pandora
• Belinda
• Violin
  

I tried Armand, Taltos, and Violin, but the magic was gone by then.

Having an Anne Rice moment. I miss reading her books. I used to love them. Drama and supernatural hijinks.

Almost tine to sleep. Thinking of a worthy dvd to fall asleep to. As it stands watching "Turu the Terrible" makes me want to sleep.

Saw Transformers 2 today. Not sure how to digest this film. On one hand its got action, however the plot gets weaker. I'm a bit tired of mindless stories.

Did some editing to one of my scripts. A lot of thought went into eliminating passive verbs and how some scenes played out. Cut out some scenes. Felt good too.

Must not be scared to cut scenes from my scripts.

Just got outta class and I am tired. I will pick up a meal and run on home for a power nap. Its what I need. Will wake up and go to wk. Love a routine.

Wrote a little bit more during my break today. Tried to clear up some scenes. Felt like I am making slow and steady progress. Slowly getting sleepy.

Honesty

Is writing about being honest?  At least to yourself what the story is and about should be honest.  Should there be a claim of innocence or ignorance in the mix. 

Been thinking of a new blog idea. Hope to male it real and seen soon. I'm a dervish of ideas I am.

Its lunch time. Will have a burger and fries. Then chill for a bit before work. Class went well. Hope this quarter will be as smooth.

Day two of classes begins. I am very sleepy. Will take. Power nap later. Today os talk of the new Hollywood cinema. Should be fun.

I am gonna try and get mt power nap on. First day of class is smooth. Ready for next class. For now I must sleep. Almost time for work.

I don't feel like sleeping. Will be working tomorrow so I want a good night's sleep. Will break out the sleepytime tea to push m in the right direction.

Satur-Dazed

It was too hot outside.   I had to do a second errand run for some things to make a dinner today.  I also needed paper goods.  I waited too late to drink something cool.  It seems that when I got home at last, I  was fine up until I felt so sleepy.  I know I wasn't really tired, BUT I felt the touch of sleep all over me.  I fell asleep woke up to make dinner, but I should have bought some water with me.   Made sure to buy some bottled water from the store.   

For dinner I'm having steak, mixed veggies, and sauteed onions, mushrooms, and bell peppers.   I let the steaks marinade last night in a sesame ginger sauce.   When its doen it should be fantastic.   Certainly smells good.   Tried the sesame ginger sause before, so I know that it will be ok.  The one aspect of cooking the steak i refined is not putting too much sause on the mean, and watching the hear carmelize and brun the sause to the pan.   

The line at the bank was tedious. It was hot and tiring. I got what I needed done.

Decided the beard had to go. Shaved it off with no hesitation. It was too unmanageable. It was also getting itchy. I'm glad its off my face.

Blah

I need to relax a bit more.   Time to chill and watch a few movies.  Misplaced a few of my DVD's.  Can't find vol 1 of my Utena DVD.  I'm rather irritated.  Want to see it and now I can't.  At least for the moment.   Feeling a tab bit creative.  Better go grab my notebook.   Currently watching Blade II. 

Storm came through last night. Woke up to thunder and lightning. Made myself get up and unplug the electronics. Replugged this morning.

Should have made a post sooner. Went to work feeling positive. Hot outside. A tour horse pooped on the block. Muggy air carried the smell. Yuck.

I have an appointment today. Don't know how long ut will be, but I'm not worried. Its really hot outside. Its a humid heat I can di without.

I feel like I don't know what to write about today. Its rather sad. Perhaps I need some sleep. Playing music hoping for inspiration.

Camp

Was looking for a definition for this term.  Heard it used a few times, and found it to be a little confusing when some peeps used it.   Got the definition from  Mirriam-Webster online.   BTW the use camp has been used to describe writings and films.  Some of the stories were mine that were being described,  hence my curiosity. 

CAMP:  a style or mode of personal or creative expression that is absurdly exaggerated and often fuses elements of high and popular culture.

So just looking at this, we see one aspect of my writing.  We know that I have a vivid imagination, and I know how to think outside the box.  Let us see if I can put it all onto the paper.     

Late in the morning a thunderstorm raged outside. There was plenty of thunder, lightning, and hail. Got up and unplugged all the electronics. Went back to bed.

Will try to chill for the rest of the night. It feels good to lay down and relax.

I told someone I wanted to chang my style of dress. She asked me if I had a girlfriend. I don't but the need for change is strong. What has come over me?

A Brother Has A Plan

Been thinking of revising my final papers for cinema studies to make the publishable.  Something tells me that a hard worked paper should not lay in a box while no one sees them.  If I can turn the Blade Runner/Metropolis paper into gold I can get the FSM paper and BSD papers in top shape.   My paper writing skills are growing, and I'd like to see myself becomming more proactive with paper writing.   I have a lot more to get done.  At least five more classes (not including the screenwriting and professional writing classes I took or will take.  

Neglect

How I have failed to keep up with demands of updating this blog, when I was once faithful to it.  Let's do a recap worthy of my time.   I've been doing a lot of writing for classes.  Spec scripts, final papers (which ALL need revisions), scripts for comics, movies, and even looking to work my way back to prose.   So yes, I've been a writing fool.  Don't want to give up on something that has brought me so much pleasure in the past.   Updates should be in order soon.  

I hate waking up early. My internal clock is so off. I hope it restores itself.

The Quarter is Over

Thank goodness, another quarter has passed.  I worked hard on my papers, and I feel the time was well spent.  What is new for me is even though I turned my paper in, I have a strong desire to revise it.  Not in an "its not good enough" way, but rather I have a LOT more to say about this paper.  I want more time.  I met the requirements, BUT I do have a voice that needs to be heard.  Who knew Bram Stoker's Dracula could be so ripe with ideas for me to discuss? 

I Didn't Make the Gumbo, But I Tore It Down

It was in the frozen seafood section.  I was like, what the hell, give it a shot.  What's to loose?  It was a one serving size container.  Needless to say I left it in the freezer for a while, until I decided that I would cook what's in my home before running to the grocery store again.   The heating instructions was simple, which was to heat the bag in a pot of boiling water.  I knew I could handle it?  It was mild with the spice without making me wince in spicy pain.  I'm having a slice of lemon loaf for desert.  So spice then sweet rocks! 

The Sandman

Fell asleep a lot this weekend.  The Sandman came to my house like he was Mike Tyson in the ring, and punched the heck outta me.  All I can say is I thought I was going to take a quick nap, and that was NOT the case.     Work's ahaeadm, and I'd like to NOT be sleepy then.  LOL   let's hope it gets out of my system.   I need to go nap while I can.   Save myself a sleep spell. 

Beat Sheets: The Untold Story

Still working on my spec script for my writing for TV class (comedy).  Our Prof has us on a strict formatting regiment.  He wants us to understand the beat sheet first, and then we can go onto scripting.  He was not pleased with the length of some of our beat sheets.  Mine was two pages.   I admit, if I used courier new it would have been 2 ½, but I thought times was good.  Also I didn’t know how much info I was supposed to add.  The notes I took in class were not that heavy.  We shall see on Thursday when he gives them back and we have a grade of "A."  

As a class, we are coming up with a LOT of funny ideas.  I’ve noticed that everyone is at a different level in the class, as evidenced by our beat sheets completion.  Someone used like gray color on the page, or his or her printer is weaker than Superman on a green Kryptonite diet.   Some of us didn’t use anything like the template in Crafty TV Writing.  One person was pitch perfect, if I may use the pun.  The Prof loved her work.   I have a lot to catch up with if he pans my beat sheet. 

I suppose the real question is if my script is really funny.    

On A Regular Basis

I miss blogging on the regular, so I’ve got to get off my duff and get it together.  If it’s just five sentences, well then, that’s what I need to do.  I can do twenty posts a month, can’t I?   It’s all about making myself work a little harder, and pushing myself to keep up the pace.   ‘Sides, I need to write more so that I can get the juices flowing. 

Busy, Busy, Busy

Classes have kept me busy.  I like busy.  Sometimes I feel I can’t manage it all, but I pull through.   A lot of it has to do with determination and knowing I must get things done.   My goal for the rest of my graduate career is to make sure I keep up with my deadlines, so that I don’t fall flat on my face.  It’s one thing to come close to the line, it’s a completely different act to crash and burn.   Thank God I did have the time and energy to keep up my resolve. 

Weekend Meals

It's surf and turf time, cause I want some steak and shrimp.  I will make some mixed veggies on the side, and I want a baked potato with all the fixings (sauteed onions, mushrooms, and bell peppers).  May use rum to sautee the veggies.  I love it like that.   Maybe I should have desert with that too.  A slice of cake or pie is the question. 

The Contemporary Mixed CD

Trying to put together a hot mix of songs.   Roughly 10-16 tracks for traveling.  I’ve fallen in love with “Yesterday” from Leona Lewis.   One down.   LOL   I have to admit I would have never have given the song a chance if I didn’t use Pandora radio.  I’ve heard so many songs and artists that are the bomb.   Let’s see, I discovered Utada, Ayumi Hamasaki, Fergie, Katy Perry, etc.  I found them all on iTunes also.  Some of the Ayumi CD’s I may have to purchase as imports (expensive), since the single I want (“Teddy Bear”) is not on the site.  Darn it. 

My Drink and Reads of Choice

I went to work, tried the caramel frap from Starbucks, and it was a blast!   I want more.   Yes Starbucks is like crack sometimes, and I need to practice moderation.   That shit was so good though.   ;)   I won't have to wait long.  Tomorrow I have a busy day and will crave my boost soon!   What?  there are worse things to be hung up on.   I can quit at any time.  

Reading a lot of Alan Moore comics of late.  Re-read Watchmen, and love it.  I think I'm in a different place than I was when it first came out.  I loved some Silver age goodness with a passion, and refused to let go.   I'm over that now.  LMAO!  Mind you, I want my variety.  

Reading Moore's Wildcats, and the collection of DC stories Moore wrote.   I want to read Tom Strong next.  For the sake of discussion Top 10 is my favorite Alan Morre series.

Adventures in Cinema Studies

In effort to keep prgress going in my Cinema Studies classes, I searched for classes, as registration is soon.   Lo' there are no classes for me.  I email my advisor and the dept head.  There's a wait and see action as the classes have the wrong times.   I've been assured that the the times for the classes will be to my liking soon, so I hope to have some classes I can get.   Yaay for small victories.    

In Perfect Pitch

Today was the day I had to present my three pitches in class for comedy shows.  I had my choice of three shows, AND I was allowed to either write for all three or two of one show with one of the other two.  You always start with your strongest pitch.  You NEVER apologize for your writing.  Why start with failure when you know you have a winner in your hands.    Needless to say I wrote a story, loved it, and had a couple of days to think it over AND found another element to add, revised it last night.  Presented it today.  My Prof was feeling the pitch.  I was GREAT!   Yeah, I'm ambitious.  We all knew that. 

Reaction was strong to the first pitch.  The second was meh, and the third got a mixed reaction for its quirky, esoteric aspects, but still acceptable.  The first got the best reaction, so I WILL be developing it.  I would love to develop this pitch to a full script.    I feel positive about this adventure.     

I hate post nasal drip.

Allergies

Allergies have a way of becoming an enemy.  What was simple eye irritation turned into congestion, which in turn made me feel like crap all weekend long.   I am so tired, and upset hoping I have what it takes to get things done tomorrow.   Otherwise I'm really gonna lay back down and pray I get my strenght back.  

Testing

Finding new ways to blog.  Email seems like the next evolution, no?

Texture

Having a thought on texture(content/subjects).  How do they apply to wrting?  For example dark and humorus.  Do they even pair well together?   How will they feel when I write them?   

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.