There is a forum on NaNoWriMo entittled: NaNoWriMo Ate My Soul!
I feel very at home on that forum and have been spending a lot of time there (time I should be spending on my novel).
Nevertheless, I love reading about other people who are in the same miserable boat as I am, watching the water, empty of words, fill my boat until I'm barely afloat.
I've seriously considered throwing in the towel. Or, even worse, pretending to have written in order to keep up appearances. After all, who would know?
But, no, I'm behind, plain and simple. And every attempt to catch up has been thwarted.
I have been doing fairly well on my Art Every Day challenge. So far, I've posted every day. Some days what I've posted I would call "crap", but, hey, at least I posted.
Oh, well.
Fifteen more days to go until this crazy creative month is over.
We'll see what happens...
Showing posts with label writing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label writing. Show all posts
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Thursday, August 25, 2011
A Creative Endeavor, Cont'd
.....There on my bookcase, partially blocked by my miniature replica of Westminster Abbey, was a book I had purchased years before and had half-heartedly attempted to follow.
But, now, I knew I was ready! So, I went to the bookcase and pulled out The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron.
Do you have this book? Have you heard of it?
You probably have. It’s sold over a million copies.
But, in case you haven’t, here’s the gist:
Only you can remove your creative blocks. You remove them by tapping into the creative power of the Creator/Universe/God/Zeitgeist/however you define it.
These blocks prevent you from not only creating art as society has come to define it (like painting, writing, singing, dancing, etc), but they also block you from living more creative daily (like figuring out a solution to a work issue, or developing fuller and fun-er relationships).
Creativity can heal you, and heal those around you. And tuning in to your creativity can change how you view your world, making each day more exciting. (And who doesn’t want that?!)
And The Artist’s Way helps you challenge your blocks and break through them!
Now, before you say, “But, um, I’m not creative”, you need to remember that creativity is our birthright, and in every one of us. So, while you may not be writing a novel or painting your family portrait, you’re probably choosing what you wear each day (and accessorizing), or making up a story for your child, or coming up with a new way to spice up your spaghetti sauce, or changing the layout of your living room, or re-telling an incident that occurred at work (with gestures and voices). THAT IS CREATIVITY!!!
One of my favorite quotes from her book is “[A]s we are creative beings, our lives become our artwork” (Cameron, p. xxvi).
2) You must have a weekly “Artist’s Date.” This date should be between 1 to 2 hours long and should be done solo. It doesn’t have to cost anything, but it should delight you!
Now, along with these two requirements, she has weekly exercises to pick and choose from. Julia suggests you pick the ones that make you the most uncomfortable. So, that’s what I’m going to do.
To be honest, I wasn’t going to mention it. It was just going to be something I did for myself, by myself. But last week, as I was discussing this book and it’s concepts with my friend, Taryn, she suggested that I should blog about it, and that perhaps it might inspire someone else to try something creative. And she’s absolutely right! (Plus, it helps me with accountability. Bonus!)
But, now, I knew I was ready! So, I went to the bookcase and pulled out The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron.
Do you have this book? Have you heard of it?
You probably have. It’s sold over a million copies.
But, in case you haven’t, here’s the gist:
Only you can remove your creative blocks. You remove them by tapping into the creative power of the Creator/Universe/God/Zeitgeist/however you define it.
These blocks prevent you from not only creating art as society has come to define it (like painting, writing, singing, dancing, etc), but they also block you from living more creative daily (like figuring out a solution to a work issue, or developing fuller and fun-er relationships).
Creativity can heal you, and heal those around you. And tuning in to your creativity can change how you view your world, making each day more exciting. (And who doesn’t want that?!)
And The Artist’s Way helps you challenge your blocks and break through them!
Now, before you say, “But, um, I’m not creative”, you need to remember that creativity is our birthright, and in every one of us. So, while you may not be writing a novel or painting your family portrait, you’re probably choosing what you wear each day (and accessorizing), or making up a story for your child, or coming up with a new way to spice up your spaghetti sauce, or changing the layout of your living room, or re-telling an incident that occurred at work (with gestures and voices). THAT IS CREATIVITY!!!
One of my favorite quotes from her book is “[A]s we are creative beings, our lives become our artwork” (Cameron, p. xxvi).
I don’t know about you, but I’ve never thought about my life as being my artwork! What an inspiring idea! And I’m ready for the challenge to make it more colorful.
Are you?
The Artist’s Way is a 12 week course. And Julia (I’m going to call her by her first name because it sounds like we’re friends) makes two requests that must be fulfilled during the 3 months:
1) You must write three pages, first thing every morning. This she calls “Morning Pages.” You are not to show these pages to anyone and you are to write whatever comes to mind (even if nothing comes to mind). Ramble away!
2) You must have a weekly “Artist’s Date.” This date should be between 1 to 2 hours long and should be done solo. It doesn’t have to cost anything, but it should delight you!
Both of these things are going to be tough for me because:
1) I’m not a morning person. So waking up earlier, just to write poorly, is going to be a challenge.
2) While I don’t mind going places or doing things by myself, I’m not so good at following through when I’m not held accountable by others (especially when my pajamas are calling my name).
But, I’m going to do it. There’s a contract in the book and I’m going to sign it!
Now, along with these two requirements, she has weekly exercises to pick and choose from. Julia suggests you pick the ones that make you the most uncomfortable. So, that’s what I’m going to do.
At this point, if you’re still reading, you might be asking yourself “Why are you telling me all this?”
Good question.
To be honest, I wasn’t going to mention it. It was just going to be something I did for myself, by myself. But last week, as I was discussing this book and it’s concepts with my friend, Taryn, she suggested that I should blog about it, and that perhaps it might inspire someone else to try something creative. And she’s absolutely right! (Plus, it helps me with accountability. Bonus!)
So, if you’re interested, I’m starting next week (on Monday, of course). I’ll being posting about the exercises I choose, the struggles I have, the discoveries I make, and my weekly Artist Date. My plan is to post all this on my sad, lonely, and forgotten blog. (I want to leave this blog open for all my other witty thoughts…..… [crickets chirping]……… [hollow wind blowing]……… [……….]………)
If you want to try this with me, great! I would love for you to share this journey with me.
But, more than that, I hope you realize that you have the option of injecting creativity into your life any time you choose.
Choose now!
Monday, October 20, 2008
Two Weeks Notice…
Nov. 1 is the start of National Novel Writing Month.*
So in the next two weeks, sign up and mentally prepare yourself for the exciting adventure of writing a novel in an insanely short amount of time!
I did it last year, and although it almost killed me, I’m doing it again.
Why?
Because:
1) It was fun to see where forced writing would take me. Being inherently lazy, having a deadline really helps. And I didn’t have time to really plot things out, so my creativity was stretched.
2) No matter what else I didn’t accomplish last year, I can say that I wrote a novel—who cares if it was crappy!
3) I loved the sense of community with other writers from all over the world! It was nice to know that I was in the same self-induced stress boat as a guy from Japan and a woman from Australia.
And I want you to join me this year!
Go check out the site and sign up. I mean it!
It’s hard, but not too hard. And don’t give me the excuse that you’re not a “writer.”
If you know have to write, you’re a writer! It’s a simple as that.
All you have to do is write 1667 words per day for 30 days, for a total of 50,000 words!
That’s it! And then you can call yourself a novelist!!!
There’s no need to plan ahead. Last year I didn’t. I just dove in and let whatever happen, happen. This year, because I knew it was coming, I’ve been thinking of the general direction I want my story to go. But, I don’t really have any of the details worked out. I loved the organic process of the whole thing!
So, please, please, please sign up!
I’d love to have some friends to share the highs and lows of writing a novel…
*I'm planning on doing weekly check-ins on my "Poet by Night" blog. So, heads up!
So in the next two weeks, sign up and mentally prepare yourself for the exciting adventure of writing a novel in an insanely short amount of time!
I did it last year, and although it almost killed me, I’m doing it again.
Why?
Because:
1) It was fun to see where forced writing would take me. Being inherently lazy, having a deadline really helps. And I didn’t have time to really plot things out, so my creativity was stretched.
2) No matter what else I didn’t accomplish last year, I can say that I wrote a novel—who cares if it was crappy!
3) I loved the sense of community with other writers from all over the world! It was nice to know that I was in the same self-induced stress boat as a guy from Japan and a woman from Australia.
And I want you to join me this year!
Go check out the site and sign up. I mean it!
It’s hard, but not too hard. And don’t give me the excuse that you’re not a “writer.”
If you know have to write, you’re a writer! It’s a simple as that.
All you have to do is write 1667 words per day for 30 days, for a total of 50,000 words!
That’s it! And then you can call yourself a novelist!!!
There’s no need to plan ahead. Last year I didn’t. I just dove in and let whatever happen, happen. This year, because I knew it was coming, I’ve been thinking of the general direction I want my story to go. But, I don’t really have any of the details worked out. I loved the organic process of the whole thing!
So, please, please, please sign up!
I’d love to have some friends to share the highs and lows of writing a novel…
*I'm planning on doing weekly check-ins on my "Poet by Night" blog. So, heads up!
Thursday, October 2, 2008
See! I’m not a liar!!!
So, for months and months and months, now, I’ve been saying that I entered a poetry contest (by accident, actually) and my poem received an honorable mention (which was a complete surprise—since, again, I didn’t know I had entered the contest).
And all of you dear friends were like “That’s great Liz!” “Way to go!” “You’re the best.”*
And then months passed, and nothing. No proof that what I said was true.
I stopped bringing it up because I was afraid you’d all start thinking I was telling a tall tale. You know, that I had somehow confused having a poem published in a literary journal with reading a poem in a literary journal by someone named Liz.
But, yesterday when I got home from a long day at work, there was a surprise waiting for me in the mail…The Summer 2008 edition of Segullah and when I opened up the pages, there I was!!!!
A full page with my poem on it!!!
Yay!!!!
You can see the cover here. (And you’ll notice on the lower right of the webpage, under the Poetry section, you’ll see my name.”
I’m thinking of pinning the journal to my shirt and wearing it around town.
So, if you want to read it, just ask. I’ll have it on me**…
*These aren’t direct quotes. But, I’m assuming they’re close to what you said… =)
**And if any of you subscribe, not only will you get wonderful essays and poems by and about Mormon women, but you’ll also get my autograph. You know, for when I become a world famous poet.***
***Because when I become a world famous poet, I’m planning on moving to a small cottage in Ireland, where I’ll be a recluse. And then, it will totally be hard to get my signature, because if you stop by, I’ll probably throw stones and yell at you in Gaelic to get off my property.****
****Of course, I might let you in and give you an autograph if you’re there to film a documentary on my life, à la Grey Gardens. Because I’m sure, by then, I’ll be REALLY quirky. I can’t guarantee that I’ll be living with raccoons, and have a hot plate by my bed, but it’s very likely that I’ll have some kind of hygienic issue and questionable pet. Like my hair will be puffed out to the size of a small moon and I’ll have a pet jaguar.*****
***** I’d love to have a jaguar…I’d name him Kirk.
And all of you dear friends were like “That’s great Liz!” “Way to go!” “You’re the best.”*
And then months passed, and nothing. No proof that what I said was true.
I stopped bringing it up because I was afraid you’d all start thinking I was telling a tall tale. You know, that I had somehow confused having a poem published in a literary journal with reading a poem in a literary journal by someone named Liz.
But, yesterday when I got home from a long day at work, there was a surprise waiting for me in the mail…The Summer 2008 edition of Segullah and when I opened up the pages, there I was!!!!
A full page with my poem on it!!!
Yay!!!!
You can see the cover here. (And you’ll notice on the lower right of the webpage, under the Poetry section, you’ll see my name.”
I’m thinking of pinning the journal to my shirt and wearing it around town.
So, if you want to read it, just ask. I’ll have it on me**…
*These aren’t direct quotes. But, I’m assuming they’re close to what you said… =)
**And if any of you subscribe, not only will you get wonderful essays and poems by and about Mormon women, but you’ll also get my autograph. You know, for when I become a world famous poet.***
***Because when I become a world famous poet, I’m planning on moving to a small cottage in Ireland, where I’ll be a recluse. And then, it will totally be hard to get my signature, because if you stop by, I’ll probably throw stones and yell at you in Gaelic to get off my property.****
****Of course, I might let you in and give you an autograph if you’re there to film a documentary on my life, à la Grey Gardens. Because I’m sure, by then, I’ll be REALLY quirky. I can’t guarantee that I’ll be living with raccoons, and have a hot plate by my bed, but it’s very likely that I’ll have some kind of hygienic issue and questionable pet. Like my hair will be puffed out to the size of a small moon and I’ll have a pet jaguar.*****
***** I’d love to have a jaguar…I’d name him Kirk.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
A Digression (Or really, look over there...)
I posted on my almost-a-complete-waste-of-time poetry blog.
Give it a look see, if you want.
Oh, and I've posted on my book blog, too. (In case you can't get enough of me...)
Give it a look see, if you want.
Oh, and I've posted on my book blog, too. (In case you can't get enough of me...)
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Open Letter: Valentine's Day
Dear Valentine’s Day,
I love you!
I know, you’re surprised, right? I bet you thought I hated you. So many people do, after all. But not me! Now, don’t go getting a big head about this or anything. I don’t like everything about you.
For example*, I can’t stand all the dumb jewelry commercials that take over the TV (as if women can be bought). (Inner letter: Dear Women of the World, Don’t be bought by some meaningless piece of jewelry. It’s a waste. How does he treat you? Does he take out the trash? These are the things that matter. Sincerely, Liz)
I also don’t like all the crap in the stores. Mass marketing has sucked the life out of you, Valentine’s Day. (FYI: If I had a husband (looking skyward and throwing a silent prayer to the heavens), I wouldn’t want him to buy me any of the junk that has been commercially produced. No, I’d want him to write me a sonnet, or at the very least, a letter. And I’d want him to do all the little chores I’ve been nagging him to do for the last three months.)
But, despite all this, I still love you. Why? Because today thousands of people take the time (however begrudgingly) to tell a person that he or she is loved. And this is a good vibe to send out into the atmosphere. Love!
So often, the daily-ness of life takes over. We have to rush to pick up our dry cleaning. Or stop by the grocery store. Or pay the bills. Or get gas. Or drop off the kids at their soccer game. Or go to work. Etc. And we get so involved with just surviving that we forget to thank those around us. We forget that some other person in this world has agreed to marry us and be a witness to our lives. We forget parents who’ve sacrificed everything. Siblings who are our friends. Friends who are our family.
We forget that life is about loving one another.
And, hopefully, you help us remember that, Valentine’s Day. You help us stop and dedicate a day to love. And I just wanted to say “thanks.”
Love,
Liz
*I also HATE when people call you “Valentime’s Day.” It’s “tines” people, not “times”!!! I mean, seriously, why do people say this? Ugh!
I love you!
I know, you’re surprised, right? I bet you thought I hated you. So many people do, after all. But not me! Now, don’t go getting a big head about this or anything. I don’t like everything about you.
For example*, I can’t stand all the dumb jewelry commercials that take over the TV (as if women can be bought). (Inner letter: Dear Women of the World, Don’t be bought by some meaningless piece of jewelry. It’s a waste. How does he treat you? Does he take out the trash? These are the things that matter. Sincerely, Liz)
I also don’t like all the crap in the stores. Mass marketing has sucked the life out of you, Valentine’s Day. (FYI: If I had a husband (looking skyward and throwing a silent prayer to the heavens), I wouldn’t want him to buy me any of the junk that has been commercially produced. No, I’d want him to write me a sonnet, or at the very least, a letter. And I’d want him to do all the little chores I’ve been nagging him to do for the last three months.)
But, despite all this, I still love you. Why? Because today thousands of people take the time (however begrudgingly) to tell a person that he or she is loved. And this is a good vibe to send out into the atmosphere. Love!
So often, the daily-ness of life takes over. We have to rush to pick up our dry cleaning. Or stop by the grocery store. Or pay the bills. Or get gas. Or drop off the kids at their soccer game. Or go to work. Etc. And we get so involved with just surviving that we forget to thank those around us. We forget that some other person in this world has agreed to marry us and be a witness to our lives. We forget parents who’ve sacrificed everything. Siblings who are our friends. Friends who are our family.
We forget that life is about loving one another.
And, hopefully, you help us remember that, Valentine’s Day. You help us stop and dedicate a day to love. And I just wanted to say “thanks.”
Love,
Liz
*I also HATE when people call you “Valentime’s Day.” It’s “tines” people, not “times”!!! I mean, seriously, why do people say this? Ugh!
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Announcement!
So, do you remember my whole “YEAR OF LIVING THE IDEAL LIFE AT LEAST A LITTLE BIT!”™ plan for 2008?(If you need a reminder, you can read the posts on it here and here.)
Well, it’s hard to do! I never imagined how hard.
It’s SO much easier to come home after a long, exhausting day and do nothing but watch TV. It really takes a lot out of a person (especially one with no willpower to speak of) to get of her duff and do something of value.
That’s what I’ve been trying to do these past three weeks: fill my time with value. (So far, I’ve been mildly successful.)
To do this, I’ve had to put myself on a schedule. Yes, I’ve had to schedule my creativity!
I know it sounds weird, but if I don’t have an organized plan (with timelines, goal dates, and stickers—for the good days) I can easily tell myself to put it off for tomorrow (Too bad, future Liz!). After all, who cares? It’s not like anyone’s monitoring me!
See, I’m inherently lazy. Really, I am. And I also battle the big beast “FEAR OF FAILURE!” Man, what a horrible animal that is!
But, lest you think that I’ve taken no action on my New Year plan. I’ll tell you what I’ve done already.
Out of the 6 goals I set for myself, I’ve already begun three! That’s pretty good, right?
1) I’ve created the charts and deadlines, 2) I’ve begun revising poems, and 3) I’ve spoken with an old creative writing professor of mine and she’s asked me to do weekly posts on the University’s literary journal blog that I’m actually going to get paid for (well, eventually)!
And, drum roll, please…I’ve started a new blog* totally dedicated to this venture (which, I guess, makes it four goals I’ve already accomplished).
This blog is going to only contain things pertaining to my creative adventures—mostly my writing, but also other things that spark the artistic mind.
So, with all that said, I have a question for you: What are you doing to make this the “YEAR OF LIVING THE IDEAL LIFE AT LEAST A LITTLE BIT!”™? Really, what are you doing? Look inside your heart of hearts and see what’s there.
This is our only life! The only one we’ve got!
Do you want to look back on it and think “Man, I wasted a lot of time on those stupid TV shows (or whatever else is your time vice)!”? Or, do you want to say “I filled every second of my life with value!”? (Don’t get me wrong, I know we need vegging/winding-down time, but it shouldn’t absorb all our free time, right?)
I don’t know about you, but I want to say the latter. And, like I said at the beginning of this post, it’s HARD. It really is! But, I’m here to help you, and you’re here to help me.
Together, we can live our lives to the fullest!
*You can access my new blog here. And it’s also linked in my right-hand side stuff.
Well, it’s hard to do! I never imagined how hard.
It’s SO much easier to come home after a long, exhausting day and do nothing but watch TV. It really takes a lot out of a person (especially one with no willpower to speak of) to get of her duff and do something of value.
That’s what I’ve been trying to do these past three weeks: fill my time with value. (So far, I’ve been mildly successful.)
To do this, I’ve had to put myself on a schedule. Yes, I’ve had to schedule my creativity!
I know it sounds weird, but if I don’t have an organized plan (with timelines, goal dates, and stickers—for the good days) I can easily tell myself to put it off for tomorrow (Too bad, future Liz!). After all, who cares? It’s not like anyone’s monitoring me!
See, I’m inherently lazy. Really, I am. And I also battle the big beast “FEAR OF FAILURE!” Man, what a horrible animal that is!
But, lest you think that I’ve taken no action on my New Year plan. I’ll tell you what I’ve done already.
Out of the 6 goals I set for myself, I’ve already begun three! That’s pretty good, right?
1) I’ve created the charts and deadlines, 2) I’ve begun revising poems, and 3) I’ve spoken with an old creative writing professor of mine and she’s asked me to do weekly posts on the University’s literary journal blog that I’m actually going to get paid for (well, eventually)!
And, drum roll, please…I’ve started a new blog* totally dedicated to this venture (which, I guess, makes it four goals I’ve already accomplished).
This blog is going to only contain things pertaining to my creative adventures—mostly my writing, but also other things that spark the artistic mind.
So, with all that said, I have a question for you: What are you doing to make this the “YEAR OF LIVING THE IDEAL LIFE AT LEAST A LITTLE BIT!”™? Really, what are you doing? Look inside your heart of hearts and see what’s there.
This is our only life! The only one we’ve got!
Do you want to look back on it and think “Man, I wasted a lot of time on those stupid TV shows (or whatever else is your time vice)!”? Or, do you want to say “I filled every second of my life with value!”? (Don’t get me wrong, I know we need vegging/winding-down time, but it shouldn’t absorb all our free time, right?)
I don’t know about you, but I want to say the latter. And, like I said at the beginning of this post, it’s HARD. It really is! But, I’m here to help you, and you’re here to help me.
Together, we can live our lives to the fullest!
*You can access my new blog here. And it’s also linked in my right-hand side stuff.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Embarrassed Elizabeth Explains Everything (How's that for alliteration!)
Well, I have a confession to make. And I hope that once I do, you don’t think less of me and we can still be friends. Please, still be my friend!
Honestly, I wasn’t going to tell anyone, EVER, but I now realize that I kind of want to talk about it because it’s got me thinking (and you know how I am about that). So, despite my embarrassment (and a little shame), I’m going to tell you…
(deep breath) Here it is (sigh):
I’m reading a book I saw on Oprah!
There, I said it. (I'm a little shaken, but feel better getting it out.)
Now, let me add that the reason I’m embarrassed is not because I think Oprah has lousy taste (although some of her choices throw me for a loop). Truthfully, a lot of the books she’s had in her book club I’ve already read or had planned on reading.
It’s just that I hate going along with the masses. You know what I mean?
And I hate that people might see me reading a book she’s chosen (especially if it has the little “Oprah Book Club” emblem on it which I avoid like a sack of dead fermenting eels) and think that the only reason I’m reading it is because Oprah said so and I’m a mindless lemming.
Don’t get me wrong. Do I think it’s a good thing to get people all over the country, nay, the world (why limit Oprah’s power), reading?
Absolutely!
But am I afraid that some (i.e. a lot) might be reading it just because Oprah DID say so and they want to be a part of the “in” crowd?
Absolutely!
So this is all to say that never in my life have I read or thought of reading a book suggested by Oprah at the same time that everyone and their grandma is reading it, too.
But I am. So, there you go.
“Why, Liz, why?” you might be asking.
“Well, because of my big mouth, that’s why.”
You see, now that I’ve decided this coming year is going to be the “YEAR OF LIVING THE IDEAL LIFE AT LEAST A LITTLE BIT!™” I’ve had to inform some people in my office that although I’m not “technically” enrolled in school, I’m planning on auditing a few writing classes this semester, so I’ll be re-arranging my schedule.
This has lead people to ask me “Huh?” which caused me to briefly explain my “YEAR OF LIVING THE IDEAL LIFE AT LEAST A LITTLE BIT!™” plans.
And this caused a particular woman in my office to squeal (and I do mean squeal) “Oh, how exciting! This reminds me of a book I’m reading from Oprah.” At this, I should have feigned a seizure, but I wasn’t quick enough.
She went on to add “The author is going to be on Oprah today. I’m taping it, so I’ll bring it in so you can watch it tomorrow.” At this point, I should have said, well, anything to excuse myself. But, my mind went blank with horror because I realized I was trapped. I was going to have to watch it. (This co-worker would be deeply hurt and offended if I didn’t and I’m too nice a person to do that.)
Long story short (which I guess at this point is impossible), last week she taped it, brought it, I watched it, and got the book.
I’m consoling myself, slightly, because it’s not actually a book club book.
But, still, I’m embarrassed.
In the end (although I’m not completely done with it yet, but will be by the weekend), this book has given me a lot to think about. I don’t agree with the author on a number of things, but I’m always interested in how other people go about the journey of life, their search for higher meaning or purpose, and the way they connect to God.
“What’s the book?” you ask.
Part II coming next week, maybe, because it is Christmas, so I might be busy…
Honestly, I wasn’t going to tell anyone, EVER, but I now realize that I kind of want to talk about it because it’s got me thinking (and you know how I am about that). So, despite my embarrassment (and a little shame), I’m going to tell you…
(deep breath) Here it is (sigh):
I’m reading a book I saw on Oprah!
There, I said it. (I'm a little shaken, but feel better getting it out.)
Now, let me add that the reason I’m embarrassed is not because I think Oprah has lousy taste (although some of her choices throw me for a loop). Truthfully, a lot of the books she’s had in her book club I’ve already read or had planned on reading.
It’s just that I hate going along with the masses. You know what I mean?
And I hate that people might see me reading a book she’s chosen (especially if it has the little “Oprah Book Club” emblem on it which I avoid like a sack of dead fermenting eels) and think that the only reason I’m reading it is because Oprah said so and I’m a mindless lemming.
Don’t get me wrong. Do I think it’s a good thing to get people all over the country, nay, the world (why limit Oprah’s power), reading?
Absolutely!
But am I afraid that some (i.e. a lot) might be reading it just because Oprah DID say so and they want to be a part of the “in” crowd?
Absolutely!
So this is all to say that never in my life have I read or thought of reading a book suggested by Oprah at the same time that everyone and their grandma is reading it, too.
But I am. So, there you go.
“Why, Liz, why?” you might be asking.
“Well, because of my big mouth, that’s why.”
You see, now that I’ve decided this coming year is going to be the “YEAR OF LIVING THE IDEAL LIFE AT LEAST A LITTLE BIT!™” I’ve had to inform some people in my office that although I’m not “technically” enrolled in school, I’m planning on auditing a few writing classes this semester, so I’ll be re-arranging my schedule.
This has lead people to ask me “Huh?” which caused me to briefly explain my “YEAR OF LIVING THE IDEAL LIFE AT LEAST A LITTLE BIT!™” plans.
And this caused a particular woman in my office to squeal (and I do mean squeal) “Oh, how exciting! This reminds me of a book I’m reading from Oprah.” At this, I should have feigned a seizure, but I wasn’t quick enough.
She went on to add “The author is going to be on Oprah today. I’m taping it, so I’ll bring it in so you can watch it tomorrow.” At this point, I should have said, well, anything to excuse myself. But, my mind went blank with horror because I realized I was trapped. I was going to have to watch it. (This co-worker would be deeply hurt and offended if I didn’t and I’m too nice a person to do that.)
Long story short (which I guess at this point is impossible), last week she taped it, brought it, I watched it, and got the book.
I’m consoling myself, slightly, because it’s not actually a book club book.
But, still, I’m embarrassed.
In the end (although I’m not completely done with it yet, but will be by the weekend), this book has given me a lot to think about. I don’t agree with the author on a number of things, but I’m always interested in how other people go about the journey of life, their search for higher meaning or purpose, and the way they connect to God.
“What’s the book?” you ask.
Part II coming next week, maybe, because it is Christmas, so I might be busy…
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Commute Contemplation, Part II
Read Part I.
You see, I’m an all or nothing kind of gal. What does that mean, exactly? I’ll give you an example from my past: if I didn’t get an A on a paper, (even if it was an A- or B+) I felt like a failure. I might as well have received an F, because that’s how I felt. See, all or nothing.
That’s how I’ve looked at my life, and it’s a very unhealthy and depressing perspective—trust me.
What this means in the present (and what the little painter man taught me) is that although I can’t live my “ideal”, and can bring some of it into my “real.”
So, I’ve been asking myself:
What have I always wanted to be? Do?
How have I wanted to live, but haven’t because I thought/think it was/is impossible?
In the past when I've asked these questons, my stupid “all or nothing” thinking would bum me out because my ideal seemed like a pipe-dream and a waste of mental exertion.
But NO MORE!!
If I could live my ideal, I would be somewhere in Ireland, in a cute little cottage like this, and would be a full-time writer/ part-time university professor. That’s my ideal. And because it’s not very likely to happen (unless a wealthy Irish benefactor is reading this and thinks I’m fabulous), I haven’t even bothered attempting any part of the dream.
But that’s where I’ve been wrong.
So, what am I doing about it now? What part of my ideal am I carving into my mundanely real life?
Here’s what I’ve come up with:
This is what I’m going to do in the New Year.
It’s going to be the “YEAR OF LIVING THE IDEAL LIFE AT LEAST A LITTLE BIT!™”
Will it be a success? I don’t know. But I’m tired of putting things off, being afraid of failing, and letting the only life I have slip away.
So, I’m now asking you, my friends, will you join me? Will you make this your “YEAR OF LIVING THE IDEAL LIFE AT LEAST A LITTLE BIT!™” too?
What have you always wanted to do? Be? Think about it, and decide to set some goals to make it a part of your life! (And if you need some friendly support, drop me a comment and I’ll become a monkey on your back!)
And remember my new motto: Start painting even if you’re standing in mud!
You see, I’m an all or nothing kind of gal. What does that mean, exactly? I’ll give you an example from my past: if I didn’t get an A on a paper, (even if it was an A- or B+) I felt like a failure. I might as well have received an F, because that’s how I felt. See, all or nothing.
That’s how I’ve looked at my life, and it’s a very unhealthy and depressing perspective—trust me.
What this means in the present (and what the little painter man taught me) is that although I can’t live my “ideal”, and can bring some of it into my “real.”
So, I’ve been asking myself:
What have I always wanted to be? Do?
How have I wanted to live, but haven’t because I thought/think it was/is impossible?
In the past when I've asked these questons, my stupid “all or nothing” thinking would bum me out because my ideal seemed like a pipe-dream and a waste of mental exertion.
But NO MORE!!
If I could live my ideal, I would be somewhere in Ireland, in a cute little cottage like this, and would be a full-time writer/ part-time university professor. That’s my ideal. And because it’s not very likely to happen (unless a wealthy Irish benefactor is reading this and thinks I’m fabulous), I haven’t even bothered attempting any part of the dream.
But that’s where I’ve been wrong.
So, what am I doing about it now? What part of my ideal am I carving into my mundanely real life?
Here’s what I’ve come up with:
1. I’ve decided to begin working with one of my professors on my poetry/short story portfolio this coming semester so that I can use it to apply to grad. schools for an M.F.A. in creative writing.
2. I’m going to create deadlines, charts, and programs for myself to keep on target. And tell others (i.e. you guys) about it so you will also help hold me accountable.
3. I’m going to get a new blog started that will be wholly dedicated to this effort. (I’ve done this, but haven’t posted anything yet. When I do, I’ll let you know (see #2).)
4. I’m going to start seriously revising poems to begin submitting them to literary journals.
5. I’m going to start a writing workshop group to help me. (Any takers?)
6. I’m going to begin attending readings and other writer-ish-type things to be inspired.
This is what I’m going to do in the New Year.
It’s going to be the “YEAR OF LIVING THE IDEAL LIFE AT LEAST A LITTLE BIT!™”
Will it be a success? I don’t know. But I’m tired of putting things off, being afraid of failing, and letting the only life I have slip away.
So, I’m now asking you, my friends, will you join me? Will you make this your “YEAR OF LIVING THE IDEAL LIFE AT LEAST A LITTLE BIT!™” too?
What have you always wanted to do? Be? Think about it, and decide to set some goals to make it a part of your life! (And if you need some friendly support, drop me a comment and I’ll become a monkey on your back!)
And remember my new motto: Start painting even if you’re standing in mud!
Monday, December 3, 2007
It's a Miracle!
Well, after almost throwing in the towel 37 times, I did it, I finished my first NaNoWriMo novel and became a winner!
With a certificate and everything! (Which I will be happy to show you in all it's glory if you stop by my apartment.)
And let me tell you, it was hard work to keep writing, because not only was I exhausted most nights, but I also knew that just about every word was crap. (And that is hard on the ego.)
Yay for trite and terrible prose!
I mean, really, my last 20,000 words were worse than the first 30,000. And by the end there, I was just phoning it in.
In fact, here are a few plot devices I almost included in order to increase my word count:
1. Abbott (my heroine) would be abducted by aliens. And I, of course, would have to describe every experiment they tried on her.
2. Max and Sabine (Abbott's parents) would have a dream sequence which would include a HUGE dance number a' la "Brigadoon" that I would describe in all it's boring detail. They would then take this dance on the road.
3. Declan (Abbott's fella) would have led a life as an international spy (before he became a baker) and he would tell Abby all about it.
4. Abbott and Declan would get a call to leave Otterville in order to save the world from a black hole that is going to engulf our solar system.
If you think these are bad ideas, you should read what I actually ended up doing to push the plot forward (which you won't, because I will NEVER EVER let anyone EVER read it. EVER!)
But, in the end, I did it. I wrote 50,000 horrible words.
I think I'm going to have to retire my stupid imagination, now, until next November when I attempt this again.
Maybe by then, I'll actually come up with some good ideas.
Or, most likely, not.
Oh, well.
I get an "A" for effort though, right?
With a certificate and everything! (Which I will be happy to show you in all it's glory if you stop by my apartment.)
And let me tell you, it was hard work to keep writing, because not only was I exhausted most nights, but I also knew that just about every word was crap. (And that is hard on the ego.)
Yay for trite and terrible prose!
I mean, really, my last 20,000 words were worse than the first 30,000. And by the end there, I was just phoning it in.
In fact, here are a few plot devices I almost included in order to increase my word count:
1. Abbott (my heroine) would be abducted by aliens. And I, of course, would have to describe every experiment they tried on her.
2. Max and Sabine (Abbott's parents) would have a dream sequence which would include a HUGE dance number a' la "Brigadoon" that I would describe in all it's boring detail. They would then take this dance on the road.
3. Declan (Abbott's fella) would have led a life as an international spy (before he became a baker) and he would tell Abby all about it.
4. Abbott and Declan would get a call to leave Otterville in order to save the world from a black hole that is going to engulf our solar system.
If you think these are bad ideas, you should read what I actually ended up doing to push the plot forward (which you won't, because I will NEVER EVER let anyone EVER read it. EVER!)
But, in the end, I did it. I wrote 50,000 horrible words.
I think I'm going to have to retire my stupid imagination, now, until next November when I attempt this again.
Maybe by then, I'll actually come up with some good ideas.
Or, most likely, not.
Oh, well.
I get an "A" for effort though, right?
Friday, November 9, 2007
Friday Fluff Part II
Now, I'm doing this to inspire all you writers, and future writers out there.
You think you can't write? You think all your stuff is trite and crap? You think you'd rather gouge out your eyes than read another stupid, horribly written story?
Well, you're not alone! Behold! For your inspiration (and condolences) I'm showing you the first 4 paragraphes of my totally unedited masterpiece which I have titled "Crap-terpiece".
Be prepared to have your bowels filled with mercy towards me (and my hopeless abilities) as you read...
I'm know, I'm sorry I'm literate too...
(Normally I'd ask you to comment, you know, so I feel liked and all. But, in this case, please don't comment. I already feel bad enough...)
You think you can't write? You think all your stuff is trite and crap? You think you'd rather gouge out your eyes than read another stupid, horribly written story?
Well, you're not alone! Behold! For your inspiration (and condolences) I'm showing you the first 4 paragraphes of my totally unedited masterpiece which I have titled "Crap-terpiece".
Be prepared to have your bowels filled with mercy towards me (and my hopeless abilities) as you read...
When you have a first name like Abbott, old people think you're funny and young people think you’re weird. A normal person would realize this before cursing their child, a daughter no less, with such a name. But, I don’t come from normal people.
Hi, my name is Abbott Brinley, but I go by Abby, and I’m glad to make your acquaintance. I suppose I should be grateful that my last name isn’t Costello, right? Yes, that would be much worse. Oh, if you talk to my parents, they’ll tell you to call me Bott. But don’t. I mean it. Growing up with a name like Abbott really does something to your world view. Trust me on that. Although growing up in my family certainly didn’t help matters. It’s sort of the chicken and egg scenario, if you know what I mean.
Before you ask, yes, my parents were fans of Abbott and Costello. And no, I don’t know the “Who’s on First” routine. Really, I don’t. I’ve made it a point to not know it. Some would say that this is a terrible loss because that routine is such a classic. And that any well-informed person of American comedy duos should know about such things. But to those people I say, so what? You don’t know what it was like being 9 or 13 or 17 or 30 with a name like Abbott.
I don’t want you to think that my name ruined my life, because that is not the case. I blame my ruined life squarely on the shoulders of my parents. I don’t want to sound cliché, but it’s all their fault. Now, of course, they don’t see it that way. In their minds, I was given lots of love, freedom, and “me” time. But I suppose before I start telling you about my current situation, and how I’m trying to get out of it, I should first tell you about my parents, Max and Sabine, and how they saw the world when I was growing up, and how that viewpoint has determined my life. And their story can’t be told without mentioning the place where it all started, and ended: Otterville, Ohio. This small town, with all it's quirky people, only made things worse for me and my future.
I'm know, I'm sorry I'm literate too...
(Normally I'd ask you to comment, you know, so I feel liked and all. But, in this case, please don't comment. I already feel bad enough...)
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Friday Fluff (a little early)
(I’m posting this today because I won’t be able to tomorrow.)
So, I wasn’t going to tell anyone I was doing this, you know, to stave off abject failure and humiliation. But then as I was reading about it more on the various forums, I was told that I’m supposed to USE possible failure and humiliation as a motivational tool.
With that being said, I’m participating in National Novel Writing Month, or NaNoWriMo, for the initiated.
I’m introducing this on my Friday Fluff post because, well, everything I’ve written so far is fluff—and crap—don’t forget the crap.
I’ve met my 1700 words a day quota so far (meaning, day 1), and let me tell you, it’s a challenge. I started yesterday with no characters, no plot, no ideas, and no hope. And now, 2000 words into it, I have 4 characters (with Abbott Brinley as the protagonist), a trite plot, a few stinky ideas, and still no hope. But, it’s progressing, sort of.
The funny thing about writing is that you just don’t know where your characters are going to turn up and what they are going to want to talk about. I thought I would write a story about a chunky girl on the hunt for love (you know, because I can relate) and I’ve ended up with a character who’s retelling her past living in a quirky town in Ohio and being raised by eccentric parents who live in a world of make believe!
Why did this happen? Who knows! I sure don’t. Let’s hope Abbott, does. (And, in case you’re wondering “Why is her name Abbott?” I don’t know that either. Isn’t imagination funny?)
Maybe you should think about giving this a try! And then we could commiserate together!
So, I wasn’t going to tell anyone I was doing this, you know, to stave off abject failure and humiliation. But then as I was reading about it more on the various forums, I was told that I’m supposed to USE possible failure and humiliation as a motivational tool.
With that being said, I’m participating in National Novel Writing Month, or NaNoWriMo, for the initiated.
I’m introducing this on my Friday Fluff post because, well, everything I’ve written so far is fluff—and crap—don’t forget the crap.
I’ve met my 1700 words a day quota so far (meaning, day 1), and let me tell you, it’s a challenge. I started yesterday with no characters, no plot, no ideas, and no hope. And now, 2000 words into it, I have 4 characters (with Abbott Brinley as the protagonist), a trite plot, a few stinky ideas, and still no hope. But, it’s progressing, sort of.
The funny thing about writing is that you just don’t know where your characters are going to turn up and what they are going to want to talk about. I thought I would write a story about a chunky girl on the hunt for love (you know, because I can relate) and I’ve ended up with a character who’s retelling her past living in a quirky town in Ohio and being raised by eccentric parents who live in a world of make believe!
Why did this happen? Who knows! I sure don’t. Let’s hope Abbott, does. (And, in case you’re wondering “Why is her name Abbott?” I don’t know that either. Isn’t imagination funny?)
Maybe you should think about giving this a try! And then we could commiserate together!
Addendum:
I now know why Abbott was named so. Her parents had a great love for Abbott and Costello, and always imagined themselves as a great comedy duo. When they were first married, they actually tried to revive the Vaudville scene. They were mildly successful in their small Ohio town (and even had a picture of themselves on the only billboard in the tri-county area).
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
A Secret
So, here’s something I do that no one knows about.
It’s not that big of a deal, really.
But, it’s the ritual I do to invoke the muse, as they say.
I put on this CD and let the words from one of our greatest poets flow over me. Sometimes I listen to it for an entire day. I have most of the sonnets memorized by now. And I love to repeat them in my best British accent (sometimes I even use gestures for added emphasis (don’t laugh)).
Oh, and there’s one sonnet (Sonnet 29) put to music by Rufus Wainwright that I listen to about 67 times in a row like I’m some kind of idiot savant (although I don’t think they’re called idiot savants anymore, but I can’t remember the new PC term, so I’m just going with that) and it always brings me to tears.
You can listen to it here. (Just click on the top of the article where it says “audio clip.”)
Maybe it will inspire you to pick up a pen and write what lies within…
It’s not that big of a deal, really.
But, it’s the ritual I do to invoke the muse, as they say.
I put on this CD and let the words from one of our greatest poets flow over me. Sometimes I listen to it for an entire day. I have most of the sonnets memorized by now. And I love to repeat them in my best British accent (sometimes I even use gestures for added emphasis (don’t laugh)).
Oh, and there’s one sonnet (Sonnet 29) put to music by Rufus Wainwright that I listen to about 67 times in a row like I’m some kind of idiot savant (although I don’t think they’re called idiot savants anymore, but I can’t remember the new PC term, so I’m just going with that) and it always brings me to tears.
You can listen to it here. (Just click on the top of the article where it says “audio clip.”)
Maybe it will inspire you to pick up a pen and write what lies within…
Monday, August 20, 2007
Guest Post
Segullah magazine asked me if they could use my entry entittled "My Ordinary Life" as a guest post on their blog.
I, of course, said yes (after wishing I had been a little more eloquent when composing it).
You can find it here.
And although we've already talked about it, check it out, and maybe leave a comment if you want.
I, of course, said yes (after wishing I had been a little more eloquent when composing it).
You can find it here.
And although we've already talked about it, check it out, and maybe leave a comment if you want.
Friday, August 17, 2007
Never-ending Short Story, Ahhh ahhh ahhh
I've been working on a short story for about 3 years now.
I don't know if I'll ever finish it, to be honest. I keep tweaking it and changing it and hating it.
So, to force myself to make some more progress and not throw in the towel (or the pen), I've decided to post the first paragraph.
In a silent town, Herbert Dingle would not have been noticed. In fact, his calm demeanor would have blended into the bland environment. But in the town of Pleaseport, with all the disputes and distractions, his manner marked him as ‘different’ and punctuated the town’s atmosphere with a stillness that made him a target.
I know I have a LONG long way to go. But, it's a start.
You have to keep the dream alive, right?
Oh, and if you think it completely sucks, well then, join the club...
I don't know if I'll ever finish it, to be honest. I keep tweaking it and changing it and hating it.
So, to force myself to make some more progress and not throw in the towel (or the pen), I've decided to post the first paragraph.
In a silent town, Herbert Dingle would not have been noticed. In fact, his calm demeanor would have blended into the bland environment. But in the town of Pleaseport, with all the disputes and distractions, his manner marked him as ‘different’ and punctuated the town’s atmosphere with a stillness that made him a target.
I know I have a LONG long way to go. But, it's a start.
You have to keep the dream alive, right?
Oh, and if you think it completely sucks, well then, join the club...
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