The corridor descended into the limestone. They had been walking steadily for nearly a half hour.
"Is this natural?" Darcy asked, touching the smooth walls.
"Could be," Luke said. "Darkness has a lot of underground springs." They reached steps that descended into the dark. "But someone carved these." He looked at her.
She gazed back.
"Things have gotten real crazy," he said.
"That's the word," Darcy said. "But what can we do? We have to stop the Bone Queen."
"If I can get you out of this, I will," he said. "You're not like me. This wasn't meant to happen to you." He reached out and touched her cheek.
She covered his hand with hers. "If it hadn't, I wouldn't have met you. That would have been too high a price to pay."
He stepped forward and kissed her, drank in her scent and sweetness. He pulled back, feeling his heart ache in ways he hadn't felt before. "We've got to survive this," he said.
She nodded.
He turned the flashlight to the stairs and led the way.
They descended more, the stairs dropping them faster into the depths. The air became damp and heavy.
"Look," Darcy whispered. Ahead of them, a glow cut into the dark.
"Get behind me," Luke said. He drew his gun and led the way into a huge chamber of straight rock walls. A vein of clear crystal glowed in the rock above them. The chamber had no seams, the rock seemingly having flowed to form these impossibly straight angles.
Darcy stepped forward and then stopped. She looked back at the stairs, fear on her face.
"I sense her," she gasped. "The Bone Queen, she's following us. Alice failed."
Luke grabbed her arm and ran with her toward the other corridor. It led them to a smaller chamber with no other exits.
"Luke," Darcy breathed.
A sword in a plain silver scabbard floated in the middle of the room, lit by some light that didn't seem to have a source.
Luke started to step forward, but Darcy gripped his arm.
"No, look." She pointed to the floor. A labyrinth path was worked into the stone. "We have to walk the Way. Carefully. I don't know what will happen if we misstep, but it won't be good."
Luke took a deep breath. He could hear something coming down the stairs, heavy steps echoing like a monster walked it. He made his decision.
"You walk it," Luke said. "Get the sword. I have to stop her."
"You can't, Luke," she said. "She's too powerful. I can feel her."
He looked at her. "I am the Protector. I'll stop her. Or die trying." He turned away. His body blurred as he raced down the corridor back to the outer chamber.
"Luke!" Darcy called. He didn't turn back.
Luke reached the outer chamber as a tall woman stepped into the room. He stopped. He didn't know what he had expected, but this tall, beautiful woman wasn't it. He saw her eyes then, the glittering hatred and spite chilling him.
Luke aimed his revolver at the woman. "Stop."
She smiled. "And if I don't, human, what will you do?"
"I'll shoot you, but I don't suppose my gun will do much," Luke said.
"No, it will not," the Bone Queen said. "I am Senkarn, the Bone Queen, and no weapon of this realm can harm me."
"You will pardon me for trying," Luke said and emptied the gun into her body. She jerked with each hit, but remained on her feet.
She laughed. "This is the Protector? This is the best Substance can do?" She closed the distance between them. "I shall feast on your heart."
Luke backed up, keeping himself between her and the inner chamber.
"Maybe, but you should know one thing," he said. He raised red glowing eyes to stare at her. "I'm not human." And with that, he cast his humanity aside.
Copyright 2006. All rights reserved.
Tuesday, May 09, 2006
Monday, May 08, 2006
Whispers
He whispered as he held her
This could get messy --
this thing between us.
We could lose everything
for a stolen moment.
Stolen from this empty world
that breaks everything
eventually. We will break
too, you know.
A cross word, a sideways glance,
a silence at the wrong instant.
I'll be cold, you'll be hot,
timing is everything and all
clocks wind down.
We shouldn't. It's not wise.
It's beyond stupid. We're
risking battered hearts.
We might not survive.
So we walk away now.
We forget. We go back.
We do the smart thing.
The smartest thing.
She whispered
I'm sure you're right
but if it's so,
why then am I
still in your arms?
He didn't reply
and held her close
as the moon sailed toward
the shores of morning.
Copyright 2006. All rights reserved.
This could get messy --
this thing between us.
We could lose everything
for a stolen moment.
Stolen from this empty world
that breaks everything
eventually. We will break
too, you know.
A cross word, a sideways glance,
a silence at the wrong instant.
I'll be cold, you'll be hot,
timing is everything and all
clocks wind down.
We shouldn't. It's not wise.
It's beyond stupid. We're
risking battered hearts.
We might not survive.
So we walk away now.
We forget. We go back.
We do the smart thing.
The smartest thing.
She whispered
I'm sure you're right
but if it's so,
why then am I
still in your arms?
He didn't reply
and held her close
as the moon sailed toward
the shores of morning.
Copyright 2006. All rights reserved.
Sunday, May 07, 2006
Finally
I'm back. Finally. I can concentrate on my projects. I can't tell how relieved I am. I'm looking forward to days to come where I can have some downtime and me-time and general all-around creative time.
First up, get caught up on the family newsletter. I have most of April done. Just have to get one more article and write a humor column. Then I'll turn about and do May. Concurrently with that, I want to get some more wordage (significant wordage) on Darkness, Oklahoma and Murder in the Witch's Cottage. I've been jotting down scenes and ideas on both. I'm eager to get started.
I've also been playing with the idea of self-publishing my humor pieces and trying to sell a book of them here. I have over 200 columns, and it would be nice to get them down all in one place. And if I raised any money from it, I would put it into my computer fund. Speaking of which, I have $100 in it so far. I sold some photos and have been eating lunch at my house to save the money I usually spent on eating out. And I have a little web page design job lined up to do this week that will make me some money. Might not seem like much, but every bit helps. I don't want to go into debt to buy the computer. I've been working too hard to get out.
So now I'll close. I should be blogging regularly again this week. Hope you have a great tomorrow. Night!
First up, get caught up on the family newsletter. I have most of April done. Just have to get one more article and write a humor column. Then I'll turn about and do May. Concurrently with that, I want to get some more wordage (significant wordage) on Darkness, Oklahoma and Murder in the Witch's Cottage. I've been jotting down scenes and ideas on both. I'm eager to get started.
I've also been playing with the idea of self-publishing my humor pieces and trying to sell a book of them here. I have over 200 columns, and it would be nice to get them down all in one place. And if I raised any money from it, I would put it into my computer fund. Speaking of which, I have $100 in it so far. I sold some photos and have been eating lunch at my house to save the money I usually spent on eating out. And I have a little web page design job lined up to do this week that will make me some money. Might not seem like much, but every bit helps. I don't want to go into debt to buy the computer. I've been working too hard to get out.
So now I'll close. I should be blogging regularly again this week. Hope you have a great tomorrow. Night!
Saturday, May 06, 2006
Sigh
The play is taking all my time. At least it will be finally be over this time tomorrow, and I'll get my life back. When I'm not at the theater, I'm either doing theater things or frantically trying to do the things I usually do when I'm not at theater.
Anyway, I have about 15 minutes and thought I'd let you know that I'm still breathing should that happen to be a concern of yours. I did get some things done today. I started out to find some notes for Darkness, Oklahoma, including a scene that I hadn't incorporated into the book yet, found those and the scene, then started sorting papers, found other stuff that needed to be filed, found a bill that needed to be paid -- yikes -- last week, filled a trash can with junk mail and other stuff that needed to be discarded, did all that between doing laundry, dusting my living room and bedroom, cleaning the kitchen, watering and caring for the flowers and the plants, filed some stuff but not enough, and now I have to go to WalMart and shop before I go to the theater tonight to work in the ticket booth.
Speaking of which, I have go now. Be back tomorrow. I hope.
Anyway, I have about 15 minutes and thought I'd let you know that I'm still breathing should that happen to be a concern of yours. I did get some things done today. I started out to find some notes for Darkness, Oklahoma, including a scene that I hadn't incorporated into the book yet, found those and the scene, then started sorting papers, found other stuff that needed to be filed, found a bill that needed to be paid -- yikes -- last week, filled a trash can with junk mail and other stuff that needed to be discarded, did all that between doing laundry, dusting my living room and bedroom, cleaning the kitchen, watering and caring for the flowers and the plants, filed some stuff but not enough, and now I have to go to WalMart and shop before I go to the theater tonight to work in the ticket booth.
Speaking of which, I have go now. Be back tomorrow. I hope.
Wednesday, May 03, 2006
In case you were wondering
I've not been here blogging because I've been running lights and sound for yet another play. It ends this Sunday. Then I'm going to back away from the theater group for a while. It's trying to swallow me whole. There's always some work that needs to be done down there, and I'm apparently like Annie in Oklahoma! -- I can't say no.
So it's best that I get some space for me. I have several writing projects circling me, waiting for a free moment to swoop in. I'm a month behind on the family newsletter, although I intend to catch over the next two weekends. At least that's the plan. I'm behind in a lot of stuff; it's hard to keep up when you're losing three hours a night to rehearsal. My house is slowly sinking in a state that can only be described as Health Department Orange Alert. Not only could you write in the dust on my coffee and end tables, you could also plant corn and expect a good harvest. Yesterday the sheets on my bed declared themselves emancipated and went to Paris to explore Cubism. Yes, I know that's silly. After all, Spain is where Cubism is most prominent today, but you try telling that to headstrong sheets.
As for email, I download it and promise myself to read it someday. I really will read each missive that you have sent to me. They're all precious to me. I print them out and paste them to my body, that's how precious.
And I have four books that need to be read: Dead Days of Summer by Carolyn Hart, Bio Rescue by S.L. Viehl, Fortress in the Eye of Time by C.J. Cherryh and one whose title escapes me at this moment. They're piled up on my bedside table along with a stack of last month's and this month's magazines.
I also have bills to pay, accounts to do, and a play that needs to be sent off to another publisher so that they have a chance to reject it, too. And I'd like to plant some flowers and do some yard work before my lawn is declared a nature preserve and the Republicans vote to drill for oil there.
To top it off, it's spring, and I don't want to do any of this. I want to find me a like-minded love and run off to the islands and bask in the sun for a few weeks. I want to get bored on the beach and sip cold fruity drinks with umbrellas in them. I want to listen to the ocean and see if it's calling my name or is it that taco stand up the street.
Anyway, that's what happening with me. What's happening with you? Are you out there or are you frolicking in a field somewhere with your love? I hope the latter, but if not, you're always welcome here at 51313 Harbor Street.
So it's best that I get some space for me. I have several writing projects circling me, waiting for a free moment to swoop in. I'm a month behind on the family newsletter, although I intend to catch over the next two weekends. At least that's the plan. I'm behind in a lot of stuff; it's hard to keep up when you're losing three hours a night to rehearsal. My house is slowly sinking in a state that can only be described as Health Department Orange Alert. Not only could you write in the dust on my coffee and end tables, you could also plant corn and expect a good harvest. Yesterday the sheets on my bed declared themselves emancipated and went to Paris to explore Cubism. Yes, I know that's silly. After all, Spain is where Cubism is most prominent today, but you try telling that to headstrong sheets.
As for email, I download it and promise myself to read it someday. I really will read each missive that you have sent to me. They're all precious to me. I print them out and paste them to my body, that's how precious.
And I have four books that need to be read: Dead Days of Summer by Carolyn Hart, Bio Rescue by S.L. Viehl, Fortress in the Eye of Time by C.J. Cherryh and one whose title escapes me at this moment. They're piled up on my bedside table along with a stack of last month's and this month's magazines.
I also have bills to pay, accounts to do, and a play that needs to be sent off to another publisher so that they have a chance to reject it, too. And I'd like to plant some flowers and do some yard work before my lawn is declared a nature preserve and the Republicans vote to drill for oil there.
To top it off, it's spring, and I don't want to do any of this. I want to find me a like-minded love and run off to the islands and bask in the sun for a few weeks. I want to get bored on the beach and sip cold fruity drinks with umbrellas in them. I want to listen to the ocean and see if it's calling my name or is it that taco stand up the street.
Anyway, that's what happening with me. What's happening with you? Are you out there or are you frolicking in a field somewhere with your love? I hope the latter, but if not, you're always welcome here at 51313 Harbor Street.
Monday, May 01, 2006
SEX ... and now that I've got your attention ...
Remember that old joke? I think it originated on Saturday Night Live. At least, that's where I remember seeing it first. It's a good example of the classic bait-and-switch advertising tactic.
Except we are going to talk about sex. The other day I went driving through the country. We've had rain, and the green plants are shooting up everywhere. The birds were calling, insects were chirping or buzzing or in the case of lightning bugs, igniting their rear ends. Frogs croaked loudly.
As I drove slowly around a small lake near my house, I thought, how utterly wonderful. The birds, the budding plants, the frogs, the insects ... and then it occurred to me. What the birds, insects, frogs and plants were really saying. They were saying, "Let's mate! Let's get to it! You want me! I want you! Now! Let's make babies!"
I can't say it was an epiphany, but it did make me pause and consider how uncomplicated that was. Oh, sure, they've got predators trying to make a meal of them, and it's quite possible that they might have to actually fight another member of the species to the death for their mate, but it sure beats going to a bar or a disco.
Not that I go to either one these days, but I know people who do and invariably they talk about how depressing it is, how desperate everyone there is, how they'd like a change.
And then I got to thinking how weird it would be if humans did have mating calls. We'd stand on our front porches and holler, "Hey sweet thing! Mate with me! Let's make babies!" In the twilight, some of us would set fire to our rears to send out a light to guide our new mates to us.
Seriously, I'm not sure if it would be any stranger that what we do now.
Except we are going to talk about sex. The other day I went driving through the country. We've had rain, and the green plants are shooting up everywhere. The birds were calling, insects were chirping or buzzing or in the case of lightning bugs, igniting their rear ends. Frogs croaked loudly.
As I drove slowly around a small lake near my house, I thought, how utterly wonderful. The birds, the budding plants, the frogs, the insects ... and then it occurred to me. What the birds, insects, frogs and plants were really saying. They were saying, "Let's mate! Let's get to it! You want me! I want you! Now! Let's make babies!"
I can't say it was an epiphany, but it did make me pause and consider how uncomplicated that was. Oh, sure, they've got predators trying to make a meal of them, and it's quite possible that they might have to actually fight another member of the species to the death for their mate, but it sure beats going to a bar or a disco.
Not that I go to either one these days, but I know people who do and invariably they talk about how depressing it is, how desperate everyone there is, how they'd like a change.
And then I got to thinking how weird it would be if humans did have mating calls. We'd stand on our front porches and holler, "Hey sweet thing! Mate with me! Let's make babies!" In the twilight, some of us would set fire to our rears to send out a light to guide our new mates to us.
Seriously, I'm not sure if it would be any stranger that what we do now.
Saturday, April 29, 2006
A meme in time saves ...
I've caught some sort of bug so I've not been feeling well. But I didn't want to go too long without posting. I found this meme at Trixie's place and thought I'd put it up there so at least there was something for you to read. Do the meme if you'd like and let me know.
What I've done
( ) Smoked a cigarette
( ) Drank so much you threw up
( ) Crashed a friend's car
( ) Stolen a car
(x) Been in love
(x) Been dumped
( ) Shoplifted
(x) Been laid off/fired
(x) Quit your job
(x) Been in a fist fight
( ) Snuck out of your parent's house
(x) Had feelings for someone who didn't have them back
( ) Been arrested
( ) Gone on a blind date
(x) Lied to a friend
( ) Skipped school
(x) Seen someone die
( ) Been to Canada
( ) Been to Mexico
(x) Been on a plane
(x) Been lost
( ) Been on the opposite side of the country.
( ) Swam in the ocean
(x) Felt like dying
(x) Cried yourself to sleep
(x) Played cops and robbers
(x) Recently colored
(x) Done something you told yourself you wouldn't
( ) Made prank phone calls
(x) Laughed until some kind of beverage came out of your nose
( ) Caught a snowflake on your tongue
( ) Danced in the rain
( ) Written a letter to Santa Claus
(x) Been kissed under the mistletoe
(x) Watched the sun rise with someone you care about
(x) Blown bubbles
( ) Made a bonfire on the beach
( ) Crashed a party
(x) Gone roller-skating
(x) Ice-skating
I'll be back tomorrow. Take care.
What I've done
( ) Smoked a cigarette
( ) Drank so much you threw up
( ) Crashed a friend's car
( ) Stolen a car
(x) Been in love
(x) Been dumped
( ) Shoplifted
(x) Been laid off/fired
(x) Quit your job
(x) Been in a fist fight
( ) Snuck out of your parent's house
(x) Had feelings for someone who didn't have them back
( ) Been arrested
( ) Gone on a blind date
(x) Lied to a friend
( ) Skipped school
(x) Seen someone die
( ) Been to Canada
( ) Been to Mexico
(x) Been on a plane
(x) Been lost
( ) Been on the opposite side of the country.
( ) Swam in the ocean
(x) Felt like dying
(x) Cried yourself to sleep
(x) Played cops and robbers
(x) Recently colored
(x) Done something you told yourself you wouldn't
( ) Made prank phone calls
(x) Laughed until some kind of beverage came out of your nose
( ) Caught a snowflake on your tongue
( ) Danced in the rain
( ) Written a letter to Santa Claus
(x) Been kissed under the mistletoe
(x) Watched the sun rise with someone you care about
(x) Blown bubbles
( ) Made a bonfire on the beach
( ) Crashed a party
(x) Gone roller-skating
(x) Ice-skating
I'll be back tomorrow. Take care.
Thursday, April 27, 2006
God and enchiladas
"Why do you believe in God?" Ronny asked me. I looked at him over the remains of my definitely not Weight Watchers approved cheese enchiladas.
"I think I've covered this before," I said. Ronny is my so-called atheist friend. So-called because he has a tendency to pray to God whenever he's in trouble but backs right out of it when he's in the free and clear again. Lately he backs right out into the position of claiming the universe is empty, random and meaningless. He's a lot of fun.
"No, seriously, you're intelligent, almost horribly so," he said. "You love science like it's a hot babe. You don't believe in ghosts, witches, vampires or anything else supernatural except God. Why is He the exception? I don't understand how you can have that one blind spot. It's not like He talks to you."
I dipped a grease-covered chip into the warm cheese sauce and contently took a bite.
"Well?" he asked.
I sipped my water, regretting that I hadn't ordered a root beer. There's just something about root beer and Mexican food that I find enjoyable. Probably the ability to burp non-stop.
"Why aren't you answering?" he asked.
I looked at him for a moment. "Silence is a form of communication."
"What does that mean?"
I shrugged. "I guess it depends on what you think silence means."
"I don't understand."
I nodded. "Yeah, I get that a lot. I used to think that it was because I was weird, but I've come to realize that everyone else is. That's why I should rule the world."
"You're being weird," he said. "And you're avoiding the question, too."
"For one thing, we have about 15 minutes left before we have to go back to work," I said. "That isn't enough time to even begin to answer your question. Two, we've covered it before. I believe in God because I do. I don't expect anyone else to justify their beliefs and don’t intend to justify mine. It works for me. I believe it. What's the problem? Three, I've discovered that people who aren't spiritual lack a certain depth and perspective. Four, are you going to eat the last corn tortilla?"
"No," he said. "So I lack depth? Then why are we friends?"
"I'm slumming," I said, smearing butter on the corn tortilla.
"Am I a project for you?" he asked. "Is that why we're friend? So you can make me a Christian?"
I sighed. "Your insecurity is showing, Ronny. I'm your friend because I'm your friend. And I can't make you into a Christian. Everything is your choice. We've got about five minutes now so keep up. I believe in God because He believes in me. I don't how to make it any simpler than that. In my life I have failed so many times at so many things. I have lied, cheated, insulted and hurt people. I have a horrible temper. I've messed up personal relationships. I've broken hearts. I've been cruel. I've been vain. I still struggle with all those things. I over-eat …" I frowned at the corn tortilla. "Anyway, my point is that I'm not very loveable. But every time I fall, even when friends desert me, God still believes in me. He still thinks I can do better, be more, be happy, be a light unto the world, to quote the Bible. He's my best friend. We may fight sometimes, we may not speak for a few days, but when the chips are down, He's in my corner. That obviously doesn't mean that He's willing to throw lightning bolts around for me or smite my enemies. There are rules to the relationship just like there are for any good relationship. But I know even when I'm at my worse, He's still willing to take me in."
I blinked for a moment.
"But--"
"But nothing," I said. "I've got to get back to work." I picked up my check and rose.
"I don't understand about that silence thing," he said, following me.
"I don't either," I said. "But try it sometime and let me know how it works out for you."
We paid and walked out into the bright spring sunshine.
"I don't believe in God," he said.
I didn't reply.
We went back to our respective jobs.
"I think I've covered this before," I said. Ronny is my so-called atheist friend. So-called because he has a tendency to pray to God whenever he's in trouble but backs right out of it when he's in the free and clear again. Lately he backs right out into the position of claiming the universe is empty, random and meaningless. He's a lot of fun.
"No, seriously, you're intelligent, almost horribly so," he said. "You love science like it's a hot babe. You don't believe in ghosts, witches, vampires or anything else supernatural except God. Why is He the exception? I don't understand how you can have that one blind spot. It's not like He talks to you."
I dipped a grease-covered chip into the warm cheese sauce and contently took a bite.
"Well?" he asked.
I sipped my water, regretting that I hadn't ordered a root beer. There's just something about root beer and Mexican food that I find enjoyable. Probably the ability to burp non-stop.
"Why aren't you answering?" he asked.
I looked at him for a moment. "Silence is a form of communication."
"What does that mean?"
I shrugged. "I guess it depends on what you think silence means."
"I don't understand."
I nodded. "Yeah, I get that a lot. I used to think that it was because I was weird, but I've come to realize that everyone else is. That's why I should rule the world."
"You're being weird," he said. "And you're avoiding the question, too."
"For one thing, we have about 15 minutes left before we have to go back to work," I said. "That isn't enough time to even begin to answer your question. Two, we've covered it before. I believe in God because I do. I don't expect anyone else to justify their beliefs and don’t intend to justify mine. It works for me. I believe it. What's the problem? Three, I've discovered that people who aren't spiritual lack a certain depth and perspective. Four, are you going to eat the last corn tortilla?"
"No," he said. "So I lack depth? Then why are we friends?"
"I'm slumming," I said, smearing butter on the corn tortilla.
"Am I a project for you?" he asked. "Is that why we're friend? So you can make me a Christian?"
I sighed. "Your insecurity is showing, Ronny. I'm your friend because I'm your friend. And I can't make you into a Christian. Everything is your choice. We've got about five minutes now so keep up. I believe in God because He believes in me. I don't how to make it any simpler than that. In my life I have failed so many times at so many things. I have lied, cheated, insulted and hurt people. I have a horrible temper. I've messed up personal relationships. I've broken hearts. I've been cruel. I've been vain. I still struggle with all those things. I over-eat …" I frowned at the corn tortilla. "Anyway, my point is that I'm not very loveable. But every time I fall, even when friends desert me, God still believes in me. He still thinks I can do better, be more, be happy, be a light unto the world, to quote the Bible. He's my best friend. We may fight sometimes, we may not speak for a few days, but when the chips are down, He's in my corner. That obviously doesn't mean that He's willing to throw lightning bolts around for me or smite my enemies. There are rules to the relationship just like there are for any good relationship. But I know even when I'm at my worse, He's still willing to take me in."
I blinked for a moment.
"But--"
"But nothing," I said. "I've got to get back to work." I picked up my check and rose.
"I don't understand about that silence thing," he said, following me.
"I don't either," I said. "But try it sometime and let me know how it works out for you."
We paid and walked out into the bright spring sunshine.
"I don't believe in God," he said.
I didn't reply.
We went back to our respective jobs.
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Tonight I'm going down to run sound and help with lights for another play by the theater group. I'm not going willingly, but it's what I deserve for not being able to say no when someone asks me to do something. Not that it will be bad down there; I just had other things to do that I wanted to do more.
You probably noticed the new writing meters on the side giving the word or page count of my writing projects in progress. It's just another way that I'm bringing my writing back into focus. I got side-tracked over the past few months into other areas. Time to get serious again.
Isn't all this sunshine wonderful! I can feel my spirits lift every time I walk out into that light. I'm beginning to think that I have some plant chromosomes in my DNA. Time to photosynthesis, baby!
*
It's later now. I spent all evening at the theater. I worked hard down there, and I'm worn out. Going to bed now. Y'all have a good day tomorrow.
You probably noticed the new writing meters on the side giving the word or page count of my writing projects in progress. It's just another way that I'm bringing my writing back into focus. I got side-tracked over the past few months into other areas. Time to get serious again.
Isn't all this sunshine wonderful! I can feel my spirits lift every time I walk out into that light. I'm beginning to think that I have some plant chromosomes in my DNA. Time to photosynthesis, baby!
*
It's later now. I spent all evening at the theater. I worked hard down there, and I'm worn out. Going to bed now. Y'all have a good day tomorrow.
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
Daniel Powter
I've found a new singer that I enjoy: Daniel Powter. You can listen to some of his music at his site here and even see some of his videos. Check him out.
Hope you have a good day tomorrow. Talk to you then when I should have more to say, I hope. Oh, talked to Crystal tonight. She made the move okay and is busy getting herself situated for her assignment. It may be a week or so until she's back online. And now good night.
Hope you have a good day tomorrow. Talk to you then when I should have more to say, I hope. Oh, talked to Crystal tonight. She made the move okay and is busy getting herself situated for her assignment. It may be a week or so until she's back online. And now good night.
Monday, April 24, 2006
In praise of doubt
Doubt has a bad name in our world. We expect people to be certain in their opinions and beliefs. We might disagree with their certainty, but we still say things like "We respect your position."
What a bunch of crap. What we don't need in this world is more certainty. We need more doubt.
Certainty that they're going to get 40 virgins helps fuel suicide bombers.
Certainty that the world can survive whatever man does to it keeps companies polluting and keeps gasoline hogging SUVs on the road.
Certainty that we're no different from the animals keeps the abortion clinics full.
Certainty that homosexuality is unnatural gives people a nice warm, feeling as they beat gays to death.
Certainty that God never intended for whites and other races to marry keeps us from feeling guilty as we shun them in church and talk privately about "those kind of people."
Certainty that we're right and everyone else is wrong allows us to talk about "godless liberals" and "lying conservatives" in our blogs.
Certainty that our denomination is the only path to God allows us to preach against other faiths and even kill their followers if we have to.
Certainty that oil and natural gas will last forever keeps pushing the problem of diminishing resources onto our children and their children.
Certainty that the other guy is out to get us gives us permission to get him first and feel justified.
Certainty that it's better to mind our own business than get involved lets child abusers and molesters continue their destruction of innocence.
Certainty that we deserve more just because of who we are rather than realizing that "there but for the grace of God go we" keeps people homeless, keeps families in poverty, keeps kids starving, keeps people dying.
Certainty that we can't change anything, that one person's effort means nothing in the face of the overwhelming problems, makes our recliners feel especially nice as we numb our brains with sex and violence on TV.
Certainty that old dogs can't learn new tricks means that we stop learning new things, we stop challenging ourselves, and we hang onto society like ticks.
I don't know about you, but I could do with more doubt in the world. We need more humility and searching, more praying and working, more striving to be better people ourselves instead of rushing around trying to remove the motes from other people's eyes while ignoring the beam in ours.
Doubt has had a bad name since the days of Thomas, but it needs to be recognized for what it is and what it's meant to be. It's meant to temper us, to give us pause, to make us wonder, to make us search, to make us strive to be better.
I'm tired of blind, unquestioning faith. I want some sighted, searching faith. I want to shake of the hand of a minister, preacher, deacon, rabbi, guru, school administrator, banker, bishop, representative, senator, president, and feel the calluses that only hard work and hard won faith can bring.
I doubt I'm going to get any of this, but I'm certain the world needs it.
What a bunch of crap. What we don't need in this world is more certainty. We need more doubt.
Certainty that they're going to get 40 virgins helps fuel suicide bombers.
Certainty that the world can survive whatever man does to it keeps companies polluting and keeps gasoline hogging SUVs on the road.
Certainty that we're no different from the animals keeps the abortion clinics full.
Certainty that homosexuality is unnatural gives people a nice warm, feeling as they beat gays to death.
Certainty that God never intended for whites and other races to marry keeps us from feeling guilty as we shun them in church and talk privately about "those kind of people."
Certainty that we're right and everyone else is wrong allows us to talk about "godless liberals" and "lying conservatives" in our blogs.
Certainty that our denomination is the only path to God allows us to preach against other faiths and even kill their followers if we have to.
Certainty that oil and natural gas will last forever keeps pushing the problem of diminishing resources onto our children and their children.
Certainty that the other guy is out to get us gives us permission to get him first and feel justified.
Certainty that it's better to mind our own business than get involved lets child abusers and molesters continue their destruction of innocence.
Certainty that we deserve more just because of who we are rather than realizing that "there but for the grace of God go we" keeps people homeless, keeps families in poverty, keeps kids starving, keeps people dying.
Certainty that we can't change anything, that one person's effort means nothing in the face of the overwhelming problems, makes our recliners feel especially nice as we numb our brains with sex and violence on TV.
Certainty that old dogs can't learn new tricks means that we stop learning new things, we stop challenging ourselves, and we hang onto society like ticks.
I don't know about you, but I could do with more doubt in the world. We need more humility and searching, more praying and working, more striving to be better people ourselves instead of rushing around trying to remove the motes from other people's eyes while ignoring the beam in ours.
Doubt has had a bad name since the days of Thomas, but it needs to be recognized for what it is and what it's meant to be. It's meant to temper us, to give us pause, to make us wonder, to make us search, to make us strive to be better.
I'm tired of blind, unquestioning faith. I want some sighted, searching faith. I want to shake of the hand of a minister, preacher, deacon, rabbi, guru, school administrator, banker, bishop, representative, senator, president, and feel the calluses that only hard work and hard won faith can bring.
I doubt I'm going to get any of this, but I'm certain the world needs it.
Sunday, April 23, 2006
Brief
Mikey has gone to his dad's house now. It's always hard to send him back. He sure didn't want to go. At least I know he had a good time. We watched cartoons, painted, colored, had water gun fights, shot off the air and Nerf rockets, flew a kite and a lot more. His Papa and I try to fill up Mikey's love tank.
It was a good weekend. I hope you had a good one, too. (Note to Torrich folks: The page has been updated and will continue to be updated weekly until Knaves. Be sure to keep up. Also, please post your available weekends on the group page. Do not post them here.) Have a great week. Good night.
It was a good weekend. I hope you had a good one, too. (Note to Torrich folks: The page has been updated and will continue to be updated weekly until Knaves. Be sure to keep up. Also, please post your available weekends on the group page. Do not post them here.) Have a great week. Good night.
Friday, April 21, 2006
Friday night
I got to see Mickey at lunch today! He and his Papa went with me to a Mexican restaurant. He didn't eat much. He was too busy telling me all the exciting things he had planned for this weekend. Afterwards we went to Dollar General, and I -- yes, I'm spoiling him -- let him pick out a couple of toys. He was so excited about it. He picked out a Batman kite and a Ninja Turtle action figure.
Tonight he and his Papa are on an overnight campout. They will be back tomorrow afternoon. Then I get more Mickey time! He wanted to paint the last time he was here, so I bought some watercolors and finger paints. We'll be painting up a storm. I'll scan a couple of his paintings and share them with you.
Anyway, I need to clean house, do chores and generally free up the rest of my weekend. So I'll close now. Have a great night and a wonderful tomorrow.
Tonight he and his Papa are on an overnight campout. They will be back tomorrow afternoon. Then I get more Mickey time! He wanted to paint the last time he was here, so I bought some watercolors and finger paints. We'll be painting up a storm. I'll scan a couple of his paintings and share them with you.
Anyway, I need to clean house, do chores and generally free up the rest of my weekend. So I'll close now. Have a great night and a wonderful tomorrow.
Thursday, April 20, 2006
Dictionary diving
I shouldn't blog when I'm tired. It's been a long week with several personal and financial setbacks, and that induces a state of melancholy. I had to look up melancholy in Webster's New World Dictionary to spell it correctly. Originally, the word meant "black bile. In medieval times, it was considered to be one of the four humors of the body, to come from the spleen or kidneys, and to cause gloominess, irritability, or depression."
Naturally then I got curious and had to know what the four humors were. It turned out they were blood, phlegm, choler and melancholy. Blood, I knew what that was as well as phlegm, and we just looked up melancholy. But choler? It was yellow bile and was the source of anger and ill humor. I went back to see what blood was the source of: passion, temperament or disposition. Phlegm supposedly was the source of sluggishness or dullness.
That pretty much exhausted the humors, but on the same page in dictionary as phlegm was phoenix. The myth of the phoenix came from Egypt. It supposedly is a beautiful lone bird which lives in the Arabian desert for 500 or 600 years and then sets itself on fire, rising renewed from the ashes to start another long life.
Not a bad metaphor for taking defeats. Although I'm not sure how to translate setting myself on fire into a metaphor. I'll leave that for someone else.
Flipping through the dictionary at random, I found embrocate. It means to moisten and rub a part of the body with oil or liniment. Right above embrocate was embrasure, which made me think of women's underwear, but turns out to be an opening for a door or window, especially one with the sides slanted so that it is wider on the inside than on the outside or an opening in a wall or parapet with the sides slides slanting outward to increase the angle of fire of a gun. I've seen windows like that in the movies. Now I know what they are. And you do, too.
It's good day, they say, when you learn something new. They may have suffered from diminished expectations.
Good night and have a great tomorrow.
Naturally then I got curious and had to know what the four humors were. It turned out they were blood, phlegm, choler and melancholy. Blood, I knew what that was as well as phlegm, and we just looked up melancholy. But choler? It was yellow bile and was the source of anger and ill humor. I went back to see what blood was the source of: passion, temperament or disposition. Phlegm supposedly was the source of sluggishness or dullness.
That pretty much exhausted the humors, but on the same page in dictionary as phlegm was phoenix. The myth of the phoenix came from Egypt. It supposedly is a beautiful lone bird which lives in the Arabian desert for 500 or 600 years and then sets itself on fire, rising renewed from the ashes to start another long life.
Not a bad metaphor for taking defeats. Although I'm not sure how to translate setting myself on fire into a metaphor. I'll leave that for someone else.
Flipping through the dictionary at random, I found embrocate. It means to moisten and rub a part of the body with oil or liniment. Right above embrocate was embrasure, which made me think of women's underwear, but turns out to be an opening for a door or window, especially one with the sides slanted so that it is wider on the inside than on the outside or an opening in a wall or parapet with the sides slides slanting outward to increase the angle of fire of a gun. I've seen windows like that in the movies. Now I know what they are. And you do, too.
It's good day, they say, when you learn something new. They may have suffered from diminished expectations.
Good night and have a great tomorrow.
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
Woe is my computer
My computer is dying. Dying hard. Every time I turn it on, I hold my breath. Sometimes it starts. Sometimes it hangs up and won't boot. Supposedly it's the motherboard. Who really knows? Computer innards are a mystery to most of us. The repairman says it's your Dweller 218c chip interfering with the silicon overlay, and we just nod like he makes sense when he's really making up the whole thing.
So basically I need to raise enough money to buy a computer. My options are limited: black market organ donor, drug runner, stripper or bank robbery. I guess I could get another job, too, but frankly I'm just not good at working for living. I know, I know, you've heard about my fantastic lifestyle, but it's only by my wits that I've been able to become a multi-dollaraire.
Michelle suggested that I sell a book of poetry a few comments back. She's probably unaware that I tried that once on this blog. I attempted to sell the few copies of a chapbook of my poems (Passion). I sold three, one of which was bought by ER (one of the reasons we remain friends is that he supports my writing) and one by my cousin (a friend and a family member in one person) and the other was a stranger whose check bounced. So the extra copies sit on a shelf in my bedroom as a reminder to not build castles in the air, particularly if it involves cash and poetry.
Of course, I do have credit cards. And if the system dies, then I guess I will be forced to use them. Too much of my life depends on a computer. My writing, the family newsletter, poetry, photographs and this blog are dependent on it. Without it, none of them would exist. Or wouldn't exist in this form where other people could see them easily. The blog and the newsletter would go first, but I imagine I could write poems and stories on a wall with a piece of charcoal if I had to.
They say that the love of money is the root of evil. I'm wondering if they meant the lack of money. It's hard to imagine a millionaire robbing a convenience store and then running out to escape in his limo, but maybe so. And who are the people saying that, anyway? Apparently people who have too much time on their hands and not enough money. They just pretend to hold money in contempt.
As for black market organ donor, I've promised not to do that again. Not since the hog/horse/nun mix-up of 1989. Now we can look back at that and laugh, oh how we laugh, although, admittedly the hog, horse and nun don't find it that funny.
Stripper sounds interesting, but I wonder how many people need help in removing their clothes. It doesn't seem like a lot would. Hey, you might not realize this, but most people are completely naked under their clothes. Amazing isn't it.
Drug runner is out. I hear the pay is good, but the retirement plan is fatally bad. Same for robbing banks. There's just no future in it. Well, there is one, but it's short and ugly and painful. I've had dates like that.
So there I am, up a creek without a silicon paddle. Suggestions are helpful. I mean, ones about the computer. Donations are appreciated. In fact, donate $25 toward the computer of my dreams, and you'll receive a copy of Passion, an unpublished poem just for you, a copy of the humor article "How I Fell In Love With A Floozy," old postmarked stamps and a painted rock. What an opportunity. Operators are standing by. (We can't afford chairs for them.) Call NOW!
So basically I need to raise enough money to buy a computer. My options are limited: black market organ donor, drug runner, stripper or bank robbery. I guess I could get another job, too, but frankly I'm just not good at working for living. I know, I know, you've heard about my fantastic lifestyle, but it's only by my wits that I've been able to become a multi-dollaraire.
Michelle suggested that I sell a book of poetry a few comments back. She's probably unaware that I tried that once on this blog. I attempted to sell the few copies of a chapbook of my poems (Passion). I sold three, one of which was bought by ER (one of the reasons we remain friends is that he supports my writing) and one by my cousin (a friend and a family member in one person) and the other was a stranger whose check bounced. So the extra copies sit on a shelf in my bedroom as a reminder to not build castles in the air, particularly if it involves cash and poetry.
Of course, I do have credit cards. And if the system dies, then I guess I will be forced to use them. Too much of my life depends on a computer. My writing, the family newsletter, poetry, photographs and this blog are dependent on it. Without it, none of them would exist. Or wouldn't exist in this form where other people could see them easily. The blog and the newsletter would go first, but I imagine I could write poems and stories on a wall with a piece of charcoal if I had to.
They say that the love of money is the root of evil. I'm wondering if they meant the lack of money. It's hard to imagine a millionaire robbing a convenience store and then running out to escape in his limo, but maybe so. And who are the people saying that, anyway? Apparently people who have too much time on their hands and not enough money. They just pretend to hold money in contempt.
As for black market organ donor, I've promised not to do that again. Not since the hog/horse/nun mix-up of 1989. Now we can look back at that and laugh, oh how we laugh, although, admittedly the hog, horse and nun don't find it that funny.
Stripper sounds interesting, but I wonder how many people need help in removing their clothes. It doesn't seem like a lot would. Hey, you might not realize this, but most people are completely naked under their clothes. Amazing isn't it.
Drug runner is out. I hear the pay is good, but the retirement plan is fatally bad. Same for robbing banks. There's just no future in it. Well, there is one, but it's short and ugly and painful. I've had dates like that.
So there I am, up a creek without a silicon paddle. Suggestions are helpful. I mean, ones about the computer. Donations are appreciated. In fact, donate $25 toward the computer of my dreams, and you'll receive a copy of Passion, an unpublished poem just for you, a copy of the humor article "How I Fell In Love With A Floozy," old postmarked stamps and a painted rock. What an opportunity. Operators are standing by. (We can't afford chairs for them.) Call NOW!
Monday, April 17, 2006
Computer break ... or I need to break a computer ...
I've spent all evening working on the web page for the local theater group. I'm so frustrated with it and computers in general that I need a break. Talk among yourselves. I'll be back tomorrow.
But here's a poem to keep you amused until I return. Talk to you later.
This and That
I've been thinking of friends
and how they come and go
and how I enjoy knowing
you
I've been thinking of games
and how we all play them
and how no one ever
wins
I've been thinking of love
and how it's a bastard
and how it's what we live
for
I've been thinking of the future
and how it keeps coming
and how we try to hold it
off
I've been thinking of joy
and how it likes to surprise
and how all the old cliches are
true
But mostly I've been thinking
how life isn't perfect but good
and how I love it and love
you
Copyright 2006. All rights reserved.
But here's a poem to keep you amused until I return. Talk to you later.
This and That
I've been thinking of friends
and how they come and go
and how I enjoy knowing
you
I've been thinking of games
and how we all play them
and how no one ever
wins
I've been thinking of love
and how it's a bastard
and how it's what we live
for
I've been thinking of the future
and how it keeps coming
and how we try to hold it
off
I've been thinking of joy
and how it likes to surprise
and how all the old cliches are
true
But mostly I've been thinking
how life isn't perfect but good
and how I love it and love
you
Copyright 2006. All rights reserved.
Sunday, April 16, 2006
Happy Easter!
Happy Easter to Crystal, Michelle, Randall, Trixie, Gloria, Slym, Erudite Redneck, Joel, Three&Eight, Frenzied Feline, Nightrider, Roen, Amber, AmberClear, Mark, Dan, Gayle, JK, Jaime, and everyone else! May this blessed day be a blessing to you and yours.
Saturday, April 15, 2006
Prophet
And the prophet said
I have a message of hope
I have a message of sorrow
I have a message of joy
Aren't you ready to listen?
And the people said
we do not want to hear hope
we do not want to feel sorrow
we do not want to bear joy
We are not ready for your words.
The prophet turned his back
walked into the wilderness
wandered for forty years
among the dust and the shadows
coming at last to land's end.
He stood on the shore and said
I have a message of hope
I have a message of joy
I have a message of sorrow
Aren't you ready to listen?
His words echoed in the dunes
and shouted to the heavens
and the mountains took up his cry
carried with the winds
of the cold north and warm south.
He walked into the ocean
He stood with the waves
lapping at his thighs
hungry tide pulling him
toward the darkness below.
He cried over the surf
I have a message of sorrow
I have a message of hope
I have a message of joy
Aren't you ready to listen?
His words were swallowed
by the endless blue
and green forever rolling
into the barren shore.
Sand covered his footprints.
He wrestled with himself
Is this what I was called for?
Is this all that I am?
Is this all that I will be?
Is there no one who will hear?
There in the white sand
black scorpion raised his poison.
He tracked the creature's movement.
He found his soul leaped
at the thought of silence.
All I have to do is stand
All I have to do is be still
All I have to do is shrug
He felt the breeze slow
he saw the waves stop.
The world spun around him
Joy is not in those who speak
Joy is in the ears that hear
Joy is in the hearts that sing
Joy is yet in this world.
It is morning once again.
The sky is endless clear.
Outside the pitiless city
the lonely prophet makes
his weary way back.
He stops for a drink
but he has nothing to eat.
A woman offers him figs.
She smiles at his blue eyes.
She listens to his words.
She listens.
Copyright 2006. All rights reserved.
I have a message of hope
I have a message of sorrow
I have a message of joy
Aren't you ready to listen?
And the people said
we do not want to hear hope
we do not want to feel sorrow
we do not want to bear joy
We are not ready for your words.
The prophet turned his back
walked into the wilderness
wandered for forty years
among the dust and the shadows
coming at last to land's end.
He stood on the shore and said
I have a message of hope
I have a message of joy
I have a message of sorrow
Aren't you ready to listen?
His words echoed in the dunes
and shouted to the heavens
and the mountains took up his cry
carried with the winds
of the cold north and warm south.
He walked into the ocean
He stood with the waves
lapping at his thighs
hungry tide pulling him
toward the darkness below.
He cried over the surf
I have a message of sorrow
I have a message of hope
I have a message of joy
Aren't you ready to listen?
His words were swallowed
by the endless blue
and green forever rolling
into the barren shore.
Sand covered his footprints.
He wrestled with himself
Is this what I was called for?
Is this all that I am?
Is this all that I will be?
Is there no one who will hear?
There in the white sand
black scorpion raised his poison.
He tracked the creature's movement.
He found his soul leaped
at the thought of silence.
All I have to do is stand
All I have to do is be still
All I have to do is shrug
He felt the breeze slow
he saw the waves stop.
The world spun around him
Joy is not in those who speak
Joy is in the ears that hear
Joy is in the hearts that sing
Joy is yet in this world.
It is morning once again.
The sky is endless clear.
Outside the pitiless city
the lonely prophet makes
his weary way back.
He stops for a drink
but he has nothing to eat.
A woman offers him figs.
She smiles at his blue eyes.
She listens to his words.
She listens.
Copyright 2006. All rights reserved.
Friday, April 14, 2006
Mikey
Mikey is in the tub. His papa is giving him a bath. I'm sitting here looking at the ruin of my living room. Candy, toys, candy wrappers, Nerf guns, Crayons, clothes, balls, movies, cups, plates and more are scattered everywhere. All of this happened in the four hours that Mikey has been here. It's going to be a lot of work to clean tomorrow night after he's gone, but right now it just makes me grin.
It's the work of an active, bright five-year-old boy who's been having a whole lot of fun. We all have. He's a real joy to have here. And if we're lucky, we're going to get to have him next weekend, too.
When I get to complaining again, remind me of him and wonderful he is. He makes a lot of things bearable.
Good night. I hope you are having as much fun as I am.
It's the work of an active, bright five-year-old boy who's been having a whole lot of fun. We all have. He's a real joy to have here. And if we're lucky, we're going to get to have him next weekend, too.
When I get to complaining again, remind me of him and wonderful he is. He makes a lot of things bearable.
Good night. I hope you are having as much fun as I am.
Thursday, April 13, 2006
Creative pursuits
I'm disappointed that more people didn't comment on Joshua's poem. I like to encourage young people in creative pursuits. Thank you, Gloria and ER, for your comments. I passed your comments on to him. He was pleased.
Speaking of creative pursuits, I've been working on Darkness, Oklahoma. I've been reading and editing what I have as well as plotting out more scenes. The book is currently at little over 51,000 words. I like it to come in at 100,000. That seems to be a common requested length for books these days. I should begin adding more words to it next week, if my editing goes as planned.
This Friday night and Saturday during the day, little Mikey is going to come and visit! I'm excited about seeing him. It's been nearly two months, and I have missed him terribly. Naturally the Easter Bunny is going to come early here, and I have a feeling that the Bunny is going to bring lots of loot.
Woohoo! Carolyn Hart's latest book Dead Days of Summer arrived today. But I won't be able to read it until after Mikey leaves Saturday night. I'll post a review. I'm looking forward to reading it. Carolyn is one of the best cozy mystery writers around. Period. This is another entry into her Death On Demand series. You need to get started reading them. If you like mysteries, you'll love what she does with them.
I've been reading James Clemens' Wi'tch series. Clemens is the pen name for James Rollins. Or maybe vice versa. I don't know. I always wonder why authors end up using pen names. As Rollins, he writes thriller-suspense, along the line of Cussler. As Clemens, he writes fantasy. I'm a big fan of his work as Rollins, not so much so as Clemens. As Rollins, he delivers an exciting adventure with plenty of explosions, secret gadgets, beautiful and deadly spies, and usually a huge payoff at the end. As Clemens, he writes well, but so far his Wi'tch series hasn't shown me anything that I haven't read in a hundred other books. Don't get me wrong. He's an excellent writer, and the Wi'tch series isn't bad. It's just not as inventive as I'd expect from someone that I enjoy as much as I do when he's writing as Rollins. Did that sentence make sense?
Anyway, should I ever be published, I hope that I'm not forced into using a pen name. I understand that people who write in two genres often are. And since I want to write fantasy, mystery and humor, it's a possibility. Paperback Writer writes under five different names. (PW is an interesting case. She's had 32 novels published in five genres since her professional debut in 2000. Her output is why a lot of people think she's an alien or a sentient computer. I think she must type like a hurricane. Probably the keys on her computer melt, and people rush in and use a fire extinguisher on her fingers. And the muscles in her hands must be strong enough to crush golf balls -- should crushing them be something she'd like to do.)
I don't want to use a pen name because I want to claim all my little darlings. Misshapen and strange as they may be, they're mine. This reminds me of a story that involves my mother and genealogy. My mother was into genealogy and quite good at it. When she began researching my family, one of my aunts told her, "You shouldn't do that. You might find all sorts of the wrong type of people in the woodpile." My mother replied, "If I find them, whatever they are, they're ours. And I'm going to claim them." My aunt took herself off in a huff, but unfortunately she came back.
My mother was a funny person. I get my sense of humor from her as well as my creative impulses. (I get my sense of timing from my dad.) My mom was clever, observant, quick-witted and intelligent. I've always regretted that being poor kept her and my dad from being able to go college. I think they both would have done amazing well. I get asked sometimes where my writing skill comes from, and I can tell them that my mother gave it to me. She didn't write much herself -- she was too busy working trying to keep her family fed, clothed and in school -- but what she did showed a sly wit. She knew how to read people better than anyone I've ever known. And she encouraged my writing. Admittedly, she had definite ideas about what I should write about, but she had an unerring sense of what was funny and/or interesting and what wasn't. Among many things, I miss that intelligent and to-the-point feedback that she provided.
I'm not sure what she would think of Darkness, Oklahoma. I suspect she would correct some plot points, point out errors in the structure, and tell me to write it better. And I'm trying, Mama, I'm trying.
Speaking of creative pursuits, I've been working on Darkness, Oklahoma. I've been reading and editing what I have as well as plotting out more scenes. The book is currently at little over 51,000 words. I like it to come in at 100,000. That seems to be a common requested length for books these days. I should begin adding more words to it next week, if my editing goes as planned.
This Friday night and Saturday during the day, little Mikey is going to come and visit! I'm excited about seeing him. It's been nearly two months, and I have missed him terribly. Naturally the Easter Bunny is going to come early here, and I have a feeling that the Bunny is going to bring lots of loot.
Woohoo! Carolyn Hart's latest book Dead Days of Summer arrived today. But I won't be able to read it until after Mikey leaves Saturday night. I'll post a review. I'm looking forward to reading it. Carolyn is one of the best cozy mystery writers around. Period. This is another entry into her Death On Demand series. You need to get started reading them. If you like mysteries, you'll love what she does with them.
I've been reading James Clemens' Wi'tch series. Clemens is the pen name for James Rollins. Or maybe vice versa. I don't know. I always wonder why authors end up using pen names. As Rollins, he writes thriller-suspense, along the line of Cussler. As Clemens, he writes fantasy. I'm a big fan of his work as Rollins, not so much so as Clemens. As Rollins, he delivers an exciting adventure with plenty of explosions, secret gadgets, beautiful and deadly spies, and usually a huge payoff at the end. As Clemens, he writes well, but so far his Wi'tch series hasn't shown me anything that I haven't read in a hundred other books. Don't get me wrong. He's an excellent writer, and the Wi'tch series isn't bad. It's just not as inventive as I'd expect from someone that I enjoy as much as I do when he's writing as Rollins. Did that sentence make sense?
Anyway, should I ever be published, I hope that I'm not forced into using a pen name. I understand that people who write in two genres often are. And since I want to write fantasy, mystery and humor, it's a possibility. Paperback Writer writes under five different names. (PW is an interesting case. She's had 32 novels published in five genres since her professional debut in 2000. Her output is why a lot of people think she's an alien or a sentient computer. I think she must type like a hurricane. Probably the keys on her computer melt, and people rush in and use a fire extinguisher on her fingers. And the muscles in her hands must be strong enough to crush golf balls -- should crushing them be something she'd like to do.)
I don't want to use a pen name because I want to claim all my little darlings. Misshapen and strange as they may be, they're mine. This reminds me of a story that involves my mother and genealogy. My mother was into genealogy and quite good at it. When she began researching my family, one of my aunts told her, "You shouldn't do that. You might find all sorts of the wrong type of people in the woodpile." My mother replied, "If I find them, whatever they are, they're ours. And I'm going to claim them." My aunt took herself off in a huff, but unfortunately she came back.
My mother was a funny person. I get my sense of humor from her as well as my creative impulses. (I get my sense of timing from my dad.) My mom was clever, observant, quick-witted and intelligent. I've always regretted that being poor kept her and my dad from being able to go college. I think they both would have done amazing well. I get asked sometimes where my writing skill comes from, and I can tell them that my mother gave it to me. She didn't write much herself -- she was too busy working trying to keep her family fed, clothed and in school -- but what she did showed a sly wit. She knew how to read people better than anyone I've ever known. And she encouraged my writing. Admittedly, she had definite ideas about what I should write about, but she had an unerring sense of what was funny and/or interesting and what wasn't. Among many things, I miss that intelligent and to-the-point feedback that she provided.
I'm not sure what she would think of Darkness, Oklahoma. I suspect she would correct some plot points, point out errors in the structure, and tell me to write it better. And I'm trying, Mama, I'm trying.
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
A guest poem
A young friend of mine wrote this poem and allowed me to share it here on this blog. See what you think.
Thank you for flying
Floating in an eternity of questions?
Not controlling up and down
wondering who do I answer the radio for
I started with a plane, an idea, a map?
Now am I the captain
or do I still have to take orders?
Well no matter I am the pilot
of my own place. Even though
I'll probably crash. I'll
at least try to make a safe
landing.
No longer do I need landing gear
I'll just glide and set it
down on the clearest runaway I can find
No seriously I'll take my orders
do what they say
All I really do is listen to the pilot
and fly when he falls asleep
for I am the stewardess
Does anyone need peanuts?
Copyright 2006 Joshua Blake. All rights reserved.
Thank you for flying
Floating in an eternity of questions?
Not controlling up and down
wondering who do I answer the radio for
I started with a plane, an idea, a map?
Now am I the captain
or do I still have to take orders?
Well no matter I am the pilot
of my own place. Even though
I'll probably crash. I'll
at least try to make a safe
landing.
No longer do I need landing gear
I'll just glide and set it
down on the clearest runaway I can find
No seriously I'll take my orders
do what they say
All I really do is listen to the pilot
and fly when he falls asleep
for I am the stewardess
Does anyone need peanuts?
Copyright 2006 Joshua Blake. All rights reserved.
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
Weight Whining or Watch Out For Those Cows!
So basically I'm on this diet. Whine Watchers. I mean, Weight Watchers. And the thing is, you can't have milk and cookies on this diet. Oh, you can -- you just can't eat anything else for a week. Well, that's not true. You can eat veggies until your face turns green and drink water until you slosh when you walk. But of course, you don't want to. You want those warm double chocolate chip cookies with a couple of glasses of cold delicious milk. Brother, I'm with you. I feel your pang.
But maybe it would help if you think of other things. Like, say, Congress. I often lose my appetite when I think about them. Or gasoline prices. But that might make you ill.
So let's think of something else. Hmm. What about how good you'll look when you lose that weight. Why, you'll be as good looking as an average movie star if you lose a few pounds, have plastic surgery, and mortgage your home and buy a new wardrobe and some bling-bling.
Well, maybe we shouldn't go that route. Instead, imagine how healthy we'll be when we're fit and thin. We'll be able to work more, work longer hours, work harder, work unceasingly, work ALL THE TIME! Wait, that's not inspiring. Think of something else. Like those chocolate chip cookies. No, no, no. We must be strong. We must be. I think.
We're all agreed, though, that losing weight is a good thing. A great thing. Even a necessary thing. After all, I'm tired of buying my pants from Omar, the tent maker. And when I think of how many cows died to provide me with a leather jacket ... well, I laugh actually. I don't like cows. Some of the worst memories of my childhood involve cows. They're large, mean and
dangerous. Don't let them fool you. They're saying, "Moo," but they're actually saying, "Die puny human! Cows will rule the world, and all other animals will bow before us!" You might think that's udder nonsense, but just remember you were warned when your doorbell rings and you open the door to confront a bloodthirsty herd.
You can't eat steak, either. Did I mention that? Not a real steak. You can have a three-ounce lean steak. For that, you might as well not even bother. I once ate a fly on my plate because I mistook it for my three-ounce steak. You can't use steak sauce or your steak might float away. Look, my dad used to trim three ounces of fat off of steaks before he grilled them!
And the worse part of it is that you don't ever get to go back to the way you ate before. It's a lifestyle change. It's eating to live instead of living to eat. You'll live longer or maybe it'll just seem that way. I don't know. I do know that one chocolate chip cookie won't hurt you. But you can't stop at just one, can you? You'd attack the batch of cookies with enough naked hunger to scare a shark. So you can't start. You can't take a chance because it's well known that just two chocolate chip cookies have enough sugar and lard to put 17 pounds on your waist. No one knows why this is so. Einstein tried to figure it out, but it was too hard so he turned to something easy instead.
We have to be strong, my waist-watching friend. I'm right there with you. I'm right beside you. I'm reaching over you to get to those chocolate chip cookies. Watch out! There's a cow behind you!
Copyright 2006. All rights reserved.
But maybe it would help if you think of other things. Like, say, Congress. I often lose my appetite when I think about them. Or gasoline prices. But that might make you ill.
So let's think of something else. Hmm. What about how good you'll look when you lose that weight. Why, you'll be as good looking as an average movie star if you lose a few pounds, have plastic surgery, and mortgage your home and buy a new wardrobe and some bling-bling.
Well, maybe we shouldn't go that route. Instead, imagine how healthy we'll be when we're fit and thin. We'll be able to work more, work longer hours, work harder, work unceasingly, work ALL THE TIME! Wait, that's not inspiring. Think of something else. Like those chocolate chip cookies. No, no, no. We must be strong. We must be. I think.
We're all agreed, though, that losing weight is a good thing. A great thing. Even a necessary thing. After all, I'm tired of buying my pants from Omar, the tent maker. And when I think of how many cows died to provide me with a leather jacket ... well, I laugh actually. I don't like cows. Some of the worst memories of my childhood involve cows. They're large, mean and
dangerous. Don't let them fool you. They're saying, "Moo," but they're actually saying, "Die puny human! Cows will rule the world, and all other animals will bow before us!" You might think that's udder nonsense, but just remember you were warned when your doorbell rings and you open the door to confront a bloodthirsty herd.You can't eat steak, either. Did I mention that? Not a real steak. You can have a three-ounce lean steak. For that, you might as well not even bother. I once ate a fly on my plate because I mistook it for my three-ounce steak. You can't use steak sauce or your steak might float away. Look, my dad used to trim three ounces of fat off of steaks before he grilled them!
And the worse part of it is that you don't ever get to go back to the way you ate before. It's a lifestyle change. It's eating to live instead of living to eat. You'll live longer or maybe it'll just seem that way. I don't know. I do know that one chocolate chip cookie won't hurt you. But you can't stop at just one, can you? You'd attack the batch of cookies with enough naked hunger to scare a shark. So you can't start. You can't take a chance because it's well known that just two chocolate chip cookies have enough sugar and lard to put 17 pounds on your waist. No one knows why this is so. Einstein tried to figure it out, but it was too hard so he turned to something easy instead.
We have to be strong, my waist-watching friend. I'm right there with you. I'm right beside you. I'm reaching over you to get to those chocolate chip cookies. Watch out! There's a cow behind you!
Copyright 2006. All rights reserved.
Monday, April 10, 2006
Things I'm sick and tired of
I'm tired of seeing movies in which a deranged man in a mask or carrying a chainsaw chases some woman through a forest. I want to see her stop, grab a rock or a club and beat the living crap out of her pursuer. She should feel free to pick up chainsaw and slice away his vital parts.
I'm tired of hearing a bigot brag about how he has demolished his opponents' arguments when all that's happened is that his opponents are filled with disgust and find better things to do with their lives than argue with an imbecile.
I'm tried of reading any book that reputes to tell some deep dark secret about Christianity like Jesus was married, survived the Crucifixion, fathered a bunch of super children, was an alien from another galaxy, was a woman, was gay, was a wizard, was an evolved superman, was a moving plant, was Satan's brother and/or father, was invented by conspiracy composed of the Catholic Church, the Masons, the Daughters of the American Revolution, the Nazis and PETA. And if I never again read another book that mentions De Vinci, it will be too soon.
I'm tired of smelling the stench from Washington, DC. Not since the final days of the Western Roman Empire have a larger group of immoral, self-righteous, greedy, lying, vicious, self-serving hypocrites been gathered in one place. And God forgive me, I voted for some of them.
I'm tired of filling my car up with expensive gasoline when we could already have affordable alternative fuel vehicles everywhere on the road if we'd had an intelligent energy policy for the past 30 years. It would be nice if we had one now, but special interest groups continue to strangle innovation and development to fill their pockets.
I'm tired of going to the bookstore and buying books that are badly written and poorly edited and know somehow they got published when I couldn't get my books published if I took a publisher's entire family hostage.
I'm tired of people violating an author's copyright right and left and pretending that they didn't know it was wrong or even worse trying to justify it in the name of non-profit organizations and/or educational institutions.
I'm tired of being the conscience for the groups I serve in. Let someone else be Jimmy Cricket for a while. I'm fed up with being flamed for trying to stand up for some sort of moral code.
I'm tired of the phrase "politically correct." It's always tossed out by a backward, slack-jawed dolt who is attempting to justify his/her prejudices. The world changes; change with it or shut up.
I'm tired of never having money and always having to be careful about everything while people around me buy new cars and homes and boats and take cruises. But that's just plain self-pity, and I'm tired of that, too.
I'm tired of griping so I'll stop.
I'm tired of hearing a bigot brag about how he has demolished his opponents' arguments when all that's happened is that his opponents are filled with disgust and find better things to do with their lives than argue with an imbecile.
I'm tried of reading any book that reputes to tell some deep dark secret about Christianity like Jesus was married, survived the Crucifixion, fathered a bunch of super children, was an alien from another galaxy, was a woman, was gay, was a wizard, was an evolved superman, was a moving plant, was Satan's brother and/or father, was invented by conspiracy composed of the Catholic Church, the Masons, the Daughters of the American Revolution, the Nazis and PETA. And if I never again read another book that mentions De Vinci, it will be too soon.
I'm tired of smelling the stench from Washington, DC. Not since the final days of the Western Roman Empire have a larger group of immoral, self-righteous, greedy, lying, vicious, self-serving hypocrites been gathered in one place. And God forgive me, I voted for some of them.
I'm tired of filling my car up with expensive gasoline when we could already have affordable alternative fuel vehicles everywhere on the road if we'd had an intelligent energy policy for the past 30 years. It would be nice if we had one now, but special interest groups continue to strangle innovation and development to fill their pockets.
I'm tired of going to the bookstore and buying books that are badly written and poorly edited and know somehow they got published when I couldn't get my books published if I took a publisher's entire family hostage.
I'm tired of people violating an author's copyright right and left and pretending that they didn't know it was wrong or even worse trying to justify it in the name of non-profit organizations and/or educational institutions.
I'm tired of being the conscience for the groups I serve in. Let someone else be Jimmy Cricket for a while. I'm fed up with being flamed for trying to stand up for some sort of moral code.
I'm tired of the phrase "politically correct." It's always tossed out by a backward, slack-jawed dolt who is attempting to justify his/her prejudices. The world changes; change with it or shut up.
I'm tired of never having money and always having to be careful about everything while people around me buy new cars and homes and boats and take cruises. But that's just plain self-pity, and I'm tired of that, too.
I'm tired of griping so I'll stop.
Sunday, April 09, 2006
Afterlife
As usual our Sunday school teacher was late. He and his wife have a new baby so they're late for everything these days. We were just sitting around talking as people do. We were discussing the play I just finished directing.
Billy started it by saying that the play's view of the afterlife was "theologically unsound. And I thought it was very Catholic in its approach," he said. "The whole working off demerits to get into heaven. Isn't that like purgatory?"
"I don't think that's exactly how the Catholics look at it," I said.
"Leave it to you to direct a sinful play," Elena said, grinning at me.
"I don't think that was the point," I said, inwardly tensing for yet another discussion about how my creative work isn't Christian. I looked at a chair and wondered if I could grab one and use it to hit people before they wrestled me to the ground.
Donald surprised me, though. "I wonder if they believe it. I wonder if anyone believes anything totally." He looked at us. "I mean about death. No one really knows. The only people who do are dead."
"I believe what the Bible says," Billy said. "That settles it for me."
"But you don't really know," Donald said. "You can't because you haven't died."
"So are you saying that you don't believe the Bible?" Billy asked with a slight edge to his voice.
"No, I believe it," Donald said. "I didn't mean that. I just mean that no one really knows. We can believe it and hope that it's true, but we can't know until we die."
"That sounds like you don't truly believe," Billy said. "I suggest prayer and reading the Bible more."
Elena rolled her eyes behind Billy's back.
Donald shrugged. "You can think that if you want, but that's not what I said."
"I've always thought that what happened to us after we die is a bit confusing," Elena said. "The whole 'streets of gold' and 'pearly gates' sounds kind of ... well ... boring."
Billy looked at her like he had just swallowed a lemon.
"I know," Loree said. "I mean, it doesn't seem like that's the way to spend eternity. You'd think we'd be doing things."
"Like what?" Donald asked.
"Helping people or something," Loree said. "I think I'd rather do that than just walk down streets of gold and live in my heavenly mansion."
Donald and Elena nodded.
"Heaven will be wonderful," Billy said stiffly. "I wonder if any of you really understand that. It's not just gold and mansions. It's being with God. It's having all the questions answered! It's singing His praises forever!" His face reddened. He looked at me. "Why aren't you saying anything?"
"I'm just listening," I said pleasantly. "I like to try it sometimes. You?"
"I'm going for a drink of water," Billy said, standing up and walking out of the room.
"Why aren't you contributing?" Loree asked me. "Ordinarily we can't shut you up."
They all laughed.
"So?" Donald asked.
"So I think life is too short to worry about what Heaven is going to be like," I said. "I think this world has enough problems for us to work on to keep us busy. Heaven will be as Heaven is. Doesn't matter what we think it be. I do know one thing: It's not going to be anything like we think it's going to be. It's going to be different. I try to not waste my time trying to learn the unknowable."
Our teacher entered the room, followed by Billy. Billy didn't sit by us.
"Do you always have to have the last word?" Loree whispered to me.
I winked at her. "Yes."
Class started.
(Names changed to protect me!)
Billy started it by saying that the play's view of the afterlife was "theologically unsound. And I thought it was very Catholic in its approach," he said. "The whole working off demerits to get into heaven. Isn't that like purgatory?"
"I don't think that's exactly how the Catholics look at it," I said.
"Leave it to you to direct a sinful play," Elena said, grinning at me.
"I don't think that was the point," I said, inwardly tensing for yet another discussion about how my creative work isn't Christian. I looked at a chair and wondered if I could grab one and use it to hit people before they wrestled me to the ground.
Donald surprised me, though. "I wonder if they believe it. I wonder if anyone believes anything totally." He looked at us. "I mean about death. No one really knows. The only people who do are dead."
"I believe what the Bible says," Billy said. "That settles it for me."
"But you don't really know," Donald said. "You can't because you haven't died."
"So are you saying that you don't believe the Bible?" Billy asked with a slight edge to his voice.
"No, I believe it," Donald said. "I didn't mean that. I just mean that no one really knows. We can believe it and hope that it's true, but we can't know until we die."
"That sounds like you don't truly believe," Billy said. "I suggest prayer and reading the Bible more."
Elena rolled her eyes behind Billy's back.
Donald shrugged. "You can think that if you want, but that's not what I said."
"I've always thought that what happened to us after we die is a bit confusing," Elena said. "The whole 'streets of gold' and 'pearly gates' sounds kind of ... well ... boring."
Billy looked at her like he had just swallowed a lemon.
"I know," Loree said. "I mean, it doesn't seem like that's the way to spend eternity. You'd think we'd be doing things."
"Like what?" Donald asked.
"Helping people or something," Loree said. "I think I'd rather do that than just walk down streets of gold and live in my heavenly mansion."
Donald and Elena nodded.
"Heaven will be wonderful," Billy said stiffly. "I wonder if any of you really understand that. It's not just gold and mansions. It's being with God. It's having all the questions answered! It's singing His praises forever!" His face reddened. He looked at me. "Why aren't you saying anything?"
"I'm just listening," I said pleasantly. "I like to try it sometimes. You?"
"I'm going for a drink of water," Billy said, standing up and walking out of the room.
"Why aren't you contributing?" Loree asked me. "Ordinarily we can't shut you up."
They all laughed.
"So?" Donald asked.
"So I think life is too short to worry about what Heaven is going to be like," I said. "I think this world has enough problems for us to work on to keep us busy. Heaven will be as Heaven is. Doesn't matter what we think it be. I do know one thing: It's not going to be anything like we think it's going to be. It's going to be different. I try to not waste my time trying to learn the unknowable."
Our teacher entered the room, followed by Billy. Billy didn't sit by us.
"Do you always have to have the last word?" Loree whispered to me.
I winked at her. "Yes."
Class started.
(Names changed to protect me!)
Saturday, April 08, 2006
47
I started this morning with 47 items on my To Do list. I have 15 of them crossed off. I'm hoping to get another 15 today. We'll see. One of the items is to post here, and that's what I'm doing right now. Another one bites the dust.
I hate to just make this post another list of what I've been doing, but that's about all that's going on in my life right now.
There is good news, though, that I want to share: My niece is doing better. She's still having problems, but she's having less pain and is able to get up and do a few things. We're not out of the woods yet, but maybe we can see daylight and the path at least is smoother. Please keep her in your prayers.
Speaking of my niece, one of her friends gave her an aquarium and a couple of fish. She called me to get some advice about how to raise fish. I'm not sure if I should be giving advice considering how many of my fish have swam off into the Great River Beyond. But at least they have short, happy lives while they're with me. Or I assume they're happy. They don't talk much.
I'm getting beat so bad in Scrabble by Nightrider that you'd think I wouldn't mention it. But I'm enjoying the game, anyway. Speaking of which, I think I will try to find time to play the Scrabble game on my computer today. That's usually fun, although not as much as playing a real person.
I finally had enough extra cash to order Carolyn Hart's new book Dead Days of Summer. Max and Annie Darling are in trouble again with Max being accused of murder and Annie having to clear his name. I'm looking forward to reading it when it comes in (should be this week_. Carolyn is an Oklahoma author with a devoted following. I don't know why she doesn't receive the media attention she should because she's one of the best mystery writers out there period as well as a very nice person. I recommend her books highly. Death of the Party, by the way, is now available in paperback.
My painting (the one for the play) is hanging in my bedroom. I'll try to take a photo of it so that you can give it a look. I think I will have it framed when I scrape enough money together. I get such a kick out of seeing it.
And now I will close. I might be back later. Wait for me, okay? Thanks.
I hate to just make this post another list of what I've been doing, but that's about all that's going on in my life right now.
There is good news, though, that I want to share: My niece is doing better. She's still having problems, but she's having less pain and is able to get up and do a few things. We're not out of the woods yet, but maybe we can see daylight and the path at least is smoother. Please keep her in your prayers.
Speaking of my niece, one of her friends gave her an aquarium and a couple of fish. She called me to get some advice about how to raise fish. I'm not sure if I should be giving advice considering how many of my fish have swam off into the Great River Beyond. But at least they have short, happy lives while they're with me. Or I assume they're happy. They don't talk much.
I'm getting beat so bad in Scrabble by Nightrider that you'd think I wouldn't mention it. But I'm enjoying the game, anyway. Speaking of which, I think I will try to find time to play the Scrabble game on my computer today. That's usually fun, although not as much as playing a real person.
I finally had enough extra cash to order Carolyn Hart's new book Dead Days of Summer. Max and Annie Darling are in trouble again with Max being accused of murder and Annie having to clear his name. I'm looking forward to reading it when it comes in (should be this week_. Carolyn is an Oklahoma author with a devoted following. I don't know why she doesn't receive the media attention she should because she's one of the best mystery writers out there period as well as a very nice person. I recommend her books highly. Death of the Party, by the way, is now available in paperback.
My painting (the one for the play) is hanging in my bedroom. I'll try to take a photo of it so that you can give it a look. I think I will have it framed when I scrape enough money together. I get such a kick out of seeing it.
And now I will close. I might be back later. Wait for me, okay? Thanks.
Thursday, April 06, 2006
Back and forth
My office has no windows. I call it the cave. It's a nice looking cave with plants and a couch, but I have spent days not seeing the sun. So lately I've taken to walking back and forth to the front office to see the sun every now and then. It's better now that Daylight Savings Time has started. There's actually sunshine when I leave the office. During the winter, it's dark when I get to the office and dark when I leave. I could easily see a modern vampire having my job and never having to worry about the sun, particularly if he ate lunch in his office.
That was really my inspiration for the vampire in Darkness, Oklahoma. I realized that if a vampire didn't go for that Goth look and dressed normally and behaved normally and had the right job, there was no reason he/she couldn't be a functioning part of society. Finding the right job could be tricky in a small town, but even the town I live in has three or four businesses -- besides convenience stores and a couple of restaurants -- that operate 24 hours a day. A vampire would just have to be careful.
And why wouldn't a vampire run around being all Goth and King of the Night? Because they're actually fairly easy to kill. Sunlight, garlic, holy water, fire, religious symbols, magic, pointy sticks, etc., can hurt and/or kill them. And during the day, their powers are greatly diminished. It wouldn't take long for a public to wise up and end their existence. Being smart and staying under the radar would be the key to their continued existence.
Naturally when I talk about this to my friends -- none of whom are writers -- they eventually ask if I believe in the existence of vampires. Nope. Not at all. Oh, there are probably people who claim to be one, I don't doubt that. But real ones? No. But maybe the real vampires count on that disbelief. Hmm. That's an interesting if somewhat disquieting thought.
In other less creepy news, I'm slowly getting caught up on all my tasks. I should finish up this weekend. I've been working hard on the March Gazette and intend to finish it this weekend. Then I'll turn around and do the April Gazette and be caught up. Well, until May.
Have I mentioned how cool it is to finally be able to pay my bills on time? If you haven't ever done it, juggling your bills is nerve-wracking and emotionally exhausting. I even have a small (tiny actually) emergency fund. Admittedly my budget is still tight and will remain so for a few more years, but it's nice to have a few feet between me and the financial cliff.
Author Holly Lisle has another podcast out. Go here to listen to some great advice on writing.
A friend of mine just got back from San Francisco. While out there, she sent me this postcard. I would hate to be the photographer taking that shot!
And I think that I will close on that. Have a great Friday.
That was really my inspiration for the vampire in Darkness, Oklahoma. I realized that if a vampire didn't go for that Goth look and dressed normally and behaved normally and had the right job, there was no reason he/she couldn't be a functioning part of society. Finding the right job could be tricky in a small town, but even the town I live in has three or four businesses -- besides convenience stores and a couple of restaurants -- that operate 24 hours a day. A vampire would just have to be careful.
And why wouldn't a vampire run around being all Goth and King of the Night? Because they're actually fairly easy to kill. Sunlight, garlic, holy water, fire, religious symbols, magic, pointy sticks, etc., can hurt and/or kill them. And during the day, their powers are greatly diminished. It wouldn't take long for a public to wise up and end their existence. Being smart and staying under the radar would be the key to their continued existence.
Naturally when I talk about this to my friends -- none of whom are writers -- they eventually ask if I believe in the existence of vampires. Nope. Not at all. Oh, there are probably people who claim to be one, I don't doubt that. But real ones? No. But maybe the real vampires count on that disbelief. Hmm. That's an interesting if somewhat disquieting thought.
In other less creepy news, I'm slowly getting caught up on all my tasks. I should finish up this weekend. I've been working hard on the March Gazette and intend to finish it this weekend. Then I'll turn around and do the April Gazette and be caught up. Well, until May.
Have I mentioned how cool it is to finally be able to pay my bills on time? If you haven't ever done it, juggling your bills is nerve-wracking and emotionally exhausting. I even have a small (tiny actually) emergency fund. Admittedly my budget is still tight and will remain so for a few more years, but it's nice to have a few feet between me and the financial cliff.
Author Holly Lisle has another podcast out. Go here to listen to some great advice on writing.
A friend of mine just got back from San Francisco. While out there, she sent me this postcard. I would hate to be the photographer taking that shot!
And I think that I will close on that. Have a great Friday.
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
Facts & fancies
For those who want to know and even those who don't:
- Today was the 95th day of the year, and we have 270 days left to go before 2007.
- The Debt Reduction Plan (All Hail Dave Ramsey) continues on pace however slowly. Another credit card will be paid off in October of this year.
- In that huge stack of mail that built up while the play was going on, I found a really cool postcard from Michelle. Thanks, Michelle! I'll scan it and post it.
- We've had wonderful weather here. Sun shining, cool temps, a few white clouds in the sky. Last week, of course, we had hail, driving rain, high winds and a tornado watch. Oklahoma weather: If you don't like it, stick around and it'll change. Often in the same day.
- Have you even noticed that charity fund raisers usually sell candy or other high fat food? You never see one that offers weights or jump ropes or other exercise equipment. There's a reason for this.
- Speaking of weights, I've got to get going to the gym again. Bummer ... I mean, hurray! I get to go to the gym! Hurray!
- I have to start saving for a computer. Mine seems to be limping along so far, but I don't know how many longer it will continue to boot. I'll need to upgrade software, too. Grrrr. At least there seem to be several deals out there on computers. Donations, anyone? Anyone? Cash, money orders, checks accepted ...
- It's a long way until the new Stargate season starts. Doctor Who just doesn't cut it.
- The cast of the play I directed gave me a $50 gift card to Wal-Mart, a ceramic elephant on which they signed their names (an elephant was mentioned in the play) and a card. I appreciated their appreciation. I used the card to purchase a new pair of blue jeans and another plant and fish for my aquarium. (I'm afraid Churchill killed the other fish off. I hope this new one lasts longer. Or at least is able to gasp out a dying message to the authorities that will finally end Churchill's reign of terror.)
- Today I was clearing out email, and I came across a folder that I had forgotten was there. Nestled beneath two other folders sat a folder with over 400 emails in it from a former love. It gave me quite a start. I debated just deleting it, but instead, I opened it and started reading the emails. It had been long enough that the terrible end didn't overshadow the joy and humor of those early notes. We were besotted with each other. I skimmed them trying to understand where it went wrong, but we had done our fighting in person so I learned nothing new. Finally, I closed the folder. My hand hovered for a moment, and then I deleted the folder. Would that memory was so easy.
- A friend of mine told me this joke today: The bank robbers had tied and gagged the bank cashier after learning the combination to the safe and had herded the other employees into a separate room under guard. After they rifled the safe, the cashier made desperate pleading noises through the gag. One of the burglars loosened the gag. "Please," whispered the cashier, "take the books, too. I’m $7,500 short."
- The postcard that Michelle sent. Cool, eh? It's Lava River Cave at Deschutes National Forest, Oregon.
- And now I will close. Have a great evening and a great day tomorrow.
- Today was the 95th day of the year, and we have 270 days left to go before 2007.
- The Debt Reduction Plan (All Hail Dave Ramsey) continues on pace however slowly. Another credit card will be paid off in October of this year.
- In that huge stack of mail that built up while the play was going on, I found a really cool postcard from Michelle. Thanks, Michelle! I'll scan it and post it.
- We've had wonderful weather here. Sun shining, cool temps, a few white clouds in the sky. Last week, of course, we had hail, driving rain, high winds and a tornado watch. Oklahoma weather: If you don't like it, stick around and it'll change. Often in the same day.
- Have you even noticed that charity fund raisers usually sell candy or other high fat food? You never see one that offers weights or jump ropes or other exercise equipment. There's a reason for this.
- Speaking of weights, I've got to get going to the gym again. Bummer ... I mean, hurray! I get to go to the gym! Hurray!
- I have to start saving for a computer. Mine seems to be limping along so far, but I don't know how many longer it will continue to boot. I'll need to upgrade software, too. Grrrr. At least there seem to be several deals out there on computers. Donations, anyone? Anyone? Cash, money orders, checks accepted ...
- It's a long way until the new Stargate season starts. Doctor Who just doesn't cut it.
- The cast of the play I directed gave me a $50 gift card to Wal-Mart, a ceramic elephant on which they signed their names (an elephant was mentioned in the play) and a card. I appreciated their appreciation. I used the card to purchase a new pair of blue jeans and another plant and fish for my aquarium. (I'm afraid Churchill killed the other fish off. I hope this new one lasts longer. Or at least is able to gasp out a dying message to the authorities that will finally end Churchill's reign of terror.)
- Today I was clearing out email, and I came across a folder that I had forgotten was there. Nestled beneath two other folders sat a folder with over 400 emails in it from a former love. It gave me quite a start. I debated just deleting it, but instead, I opened it and started reading the emails. It had been long enough that the terrible end didn't overshadow the joy and humor of those early notes. We were besotted with each other. I skimmed them trying to understand where it went wrong, but we had done our fighting in person so I learned nothing new. Finally, I closed the folder. My hand hovered for a moment, and then I deleted the folder. Would that memory was so easy.
- A friend of mine told me this joke today: The bank robbers had tied and gagged the bank cashier after learning the combination to the safe and had herded the other employees into a separate room under guard. After they rifled the safe, the cashier made desperate pleading noises through the gag. One of the burglars loosened the gag. "Please," whispered the cashier, "take the books, too. I’m $7,500 short."
- The postcard that Michelle sent. Cool, eh? It's Lava River Cave at Deschutes National Forest, Oregon.
- And now I will close. Have a great evening and a great day tomorrow.
Tuesday, April 04, 2006
Chores and snores
That's what I've been doing since the play closed. Chores and sleeping. Admittedly it's only been two nights, but I can see a pattern in there. And it's okay. I'm behind on mail, bills, blogging, writing, laundry, dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, planting, raking, weeding, clearing, etc.
I pulled out Darkness, Oklahoma and started reading it last night. I've been away from it for a month, and I'm finding all sorts of things to fix, explain and rewrite as well as add. Figured as much. Last night I was reading a couple of pages, and for the life of me, I couldn't remember having written them. They weren't bad, either. Either I'm slipping -- which I suspect -- or someone is writing the book for me -- I hope they continue.
I did my last duty for the play today. I met my roomie down at the theater, and we loaded the couch and the chair onto his truck to be returned to the furniture store. Now that set only exists in photos and memory. As do the performances of the play. It's sad. Bittersweet, I guess. Life is like that. It moves on. You get brief shining moments.
I hope your day had a few of those moments in them. Talk to you later.
I pulled out Darkness, Oklahoma and started reading it last night. I've been away from it for a month, and I'm finding all sorts of things to fix, explain and rewrite as well as add. Figured as much. Last night I was reading a couple of pages, and for the life of me, I couldn't remember having written them. They weren't bad, either. Either I'm slipping -- which I suspect -- or someone is writing the book for me -- I hope they continue.
I did my last duty for the play today. I met my roomie down at the theater, and we loaded the couch and the chair onto his truck to be returned to the furniture store. Now that set only exists in photos and memory. As do the performances of the play. It's sad. Bittersweet, I guess. Life is like that. It moves on. You get brief shining moments.
I hope your day had a few of those moments in them. Talk to you later.
Monday, April 03, 2006
The second post of the third
Yes, I thought I'd post again today. Here are few pictures of the set for my play after it was decorated and finished. I think it turned out well. We received a lot of compliments on it. I had one lady tell me that she'd like to have "that room in my house."
Stage left
Center stage
Stage right
Stage left
Center stage
Stage right
The secret wondrous post of posts!
On my previous post, Crystal left this comment:
"I can hardly wait for his next post. I bet it will be the best one he's ever written. I mean, he's got all this pent-up creativity waiting to come flooding our way. This next post will blow us all away, you can bet money on it. Go, Tech!!"
To which, Trixie replied:
"Crystal, I agree! It's been well worth the wait, I am sure! I can't wait to read it now!"
Well, they were right! For those four who commented on that previous post, I sent a secret, fantastically good post! It's incredible! It's full of laughter, sorrow, wisdom and folly! It's life at its grandest. And it's only for them. They've been sworn to keep it a secret. In fact, they will even deny that I sent them such a post! They will give their lives to protect it. They will never tell no matter how much you threaten them or bribe them! They won't even admit that they ever received one! But remember, as they deny and protest to you, that they have this secret post and are holding it close to their hearts. They're laughing at you! Laughing!
"I can hardly wait for his next post. I bet it will be the best one he's ever written. I mean, he's got all this pent-up creativity waiting to come flooding our way. This next post will blow us all away, you can bet money on it. Go, Tech!!"
To which, Trixie replied:
"Crystal, I agree! It's been well worth the wait, I am sure! I can't wait to read it now!"
Well, they were right! For those four who commented on that previous post, I sent a secret, fantastically good post! It's incredible! It's full of laughter, sorrow, wisdom and folly! It's life at its grandest. And it's only for them. They've been sworn to keep it a secret. In fact, they will even deny that I sent them such a post! They will give their lives to protect it. They will never tell no matter how much you threaten them or bribe them! They won't even admit that they ever received one! But remember, as they deny and protest to you, that they have this secret post and are holding it close to their hearts. They're laughing at you! Laughing!
Sunday, April 02, 2006
All's well that ends well
And now the play is over. We didn't have the crowds I had hoped for, but we did okay, and those that attended applauded and laughed at the right places. What more can you ask?
I'm not looking forward to tomorrow night. I've been through this before -- the let-down after a play or project is over. I have plenty of projects to take back up: Darkness, Oklahoma; Dragons Gather; Figments; the family newsletter (which is a month behind now), etc. But I will probably mindlessly surf the TV channels. That seems to be my pattern. It takes a few days before my focus can switch to something new. There's something obsessive in that, but I don't think I will look at it closely.
Anyway, back to work tomorrow. Back to paperwork and problems. Bills and alarm clocks. Appointments and errands. Of course, that all went on while the play was going on, but somehow, those activities didn't seem to command much of my attention or be as annoying as they seem now. Oh well. Bills have to be paid, life goes on, etc.
So ... I'll be blogging again and reading your blogs, too. And yes, FF, you were supposed to blog while I was gone! If I have to be gone again in the future, I will leave instructions to that effect. Lazy, lazy, lazy ...
Having nagged and feeling better for it, I will call it a night. See ya tomorrow. Have a great week.
I'm not looking forward to tomorrow night. I've been through this before -- the let-down after a play or project is over. I have plenty of projects to take back up: Darkness, Oklahoma; Dragons Gather; Figments; the family newsletter (which is a month behind now), etc. But I will probably mindlessly surf the TV channels. That seems to be my pattern. It takes a few days before my focus can switch to something new. There's something obsessive in that, but I don't think I will look at it closely.
Anyway, back to work tomorrow. Back to paperwork and problems. Bills and alarm clocks. Appointments and errands. Of course, that all went on while the play was going on, but somehow, those activities didn't seem to command much of my attention or be as annoying as they seem now. Oh well. Bills have to be paid, life goes on, etc.
So ... I'll be blogging again and reading your blogs, too. And yes, FF, you were supposed to blog while I was gone! If I have to be gone again in the future, I will leave instructions to that effect. Lazy, lazy, lazy ...
Having nagged and feeling better for it, I will call it a night. See ya tomorrow. Have a great week.
Saturday, April 01, 2006
Two down, two to go
I've only have about five minutes to post this before I head back to the theater, but I thought I'd use the time to give you an update on the progress of the play. It's going well, despite wild weather the first night.
Thursday night, we had hail, heavy rain and a tornado warning! Despite that, we still managed to fill up nearly a third of the seats. Brave people. The cast made a few opening night flubs, but since the audience didn't know the play, they were none the wiser. The actors got rattled in the first act by a couple of crying and/or screaming babies in the audience. It was terrible, but the kiddos went to sleep so the rest of the play went okay. I don't know why parents bring babies to the theater.
Friday morning, we received a nice review in the local paper. Didn't mention me, of course, sigh, but several of my actors got nice comments. And nothing negative was said, so it was a clear win. That evening we were nearly 2/3 full. Which isn't bad for our community on a Friday.
I hope tonight we have a larger audience. The weather is a bit misty, but no rain and no storm warnings. So we'll see.
Anyway, I have to get to the theater now. I hope things are going well for you. I'm looking forward to catching up on everyone's blogs soon. You are blogging, aren't you? AREN'T YOU?
Hope things are going well for you.
Thursday night, we had hail, heavy rain and a tornado warning! Despite that, we still managed to fill up nearly a third of the seats. Brave people. The cast made a few opening night flubs, but since the audience didn't know the play, they were none the wiser. The actors got rattled in the first act by a couple of crying and/or screaming babies in the audience. It was terrible, but the kiddos went to sleep so the rest of the play went okay. I don't know why parents bring babies to the theater.
Friday morning, we received a nice review in the local paper. Didn't mention me, of course, sigh, but several of my actors got nice comments. And nothing negative was said, so it was a clear win. That evening we were nearly 2/3 full. Which isn't bad for our community on a Friday.
I hope tonight we have a larger audience. The weather is a bit misty, but no rain and no storm warnings. So we'll see.
Anyway, I have to get to the theater now. I hope things are going well for you. I'm looking forward to catching up on everyone's blogs soon. You are blogging, aren't you? AREN'T YOU?
Hope things are going well for you.
Monday, March 27, 2006
Posting from backstage
It's a post! Yes, I am posting a post. Or blogging a post if you prefer. Or just babbling if we get right down the nitty gritty. I have been chastised by Crystal, who said I should post even though she herself posts only once in a blue moon! Talk about the pot and kettle ... No, really, talk about the pot and kettle. Tell me what's going on with them. Of course, she did blog a post over on the Great Slim Down that discusses her darkest cravings. Shhhh. Don't let her mom know.
Last night, after play practice, we worked on the stage lights for the theater. We got most of the working and solved a couple of problems we'd been having. It made for a late night. I have been sleepy all day. And it will be a late night tonight, also, as we are doing tech and dress rehearsals for the next three days. Because -- tada! -- we open Thursday.
What else? My family newsletter? What family newsletter? No, I will get caught up with it next month. I'm just running so far behind. And also I will resume work on Darkness, Oklahoma next month, too. And Crystal and I are talking about updating and expanding one of our one-acts into a full-length play. And the usual work and life and chores and writing and blogging and emailing and printing and submitting and mailing and how I'm looking forward to it all!
This has been a good play, though. A good cast and a good crew. Pleasant atmosphere. Very little friction. I have to say it's been one of the best ones I've worked on. I was trying to count up the various plays I've been in, written, worked on or directed over the years at school, colleges or community theaters. I think my total stands at about 60 or so. Here's a partial list. See how many you know. Hogwild, There's a Body in the Closet, A Lion In Winter, Man of La Mancha, Long Day's Journey into Night, Aunt Miranda's Will, An Apple for the Teacher, Louder I Can't Hear You, Romeo and Juliet, JB, Macbeth, Oklahoma!, Darkness at the Top of the Stairs, A Man for All Seasons, Becket, Circles, Night Mother, Writers in the Hands of an Angry God, Rumors, Turnabout, The Lady's Not For Burning, Bite My Tongue, Shut My Mouth, A Black Summer Day, Barefoot in the Park, Into the Woods, Mame, Auntie Mame, Mary Mary, Please Don't Eat The Daisies, A Thousand Clowns, Dracula, The Lark, Last of the Red Hot Lovers, Bats Off, Butterflies Are Free, Suddenly Last Summer, Murder on the Rerun and so on. That list represents a lot of hours and a lot of good times. Even if I never make another cent from my theater endeavors, I can't say I've been short-changed.
And now I need to get ready to go the theater. Talk to you tomorrow. I hope.
Last night, after play practice, we worked on the stage lights for the theater. We got most of the working and solved a couple of problems we'd been having. It made for a late night. I have been sleepy all day. And it will be a late night tonight, also, as we are doing tech and dress rehearsals for the next three days. Because -- tada! -- we open Thursday.
What else? My family newsletter? What family newsletter? No, I will get caught up with it next month. I'm just running so far behind. And also I will resume work on Darkness, Oklahoma next month, too. And Crystal and I are talking about updating and expanding one of our one-acts into a full-length play. And the usual work and life and chores and writing and blogging and emailing and printing and submitting and mailing and how I'm looking forward to it all!
This has been a good play, though. A good cast and a good crew. Pleasant atmosphere. Very little friction. I have to say it's been one of the best ones I've worked on. I was trying to count up the various plays I've been in, written, worked on or directed over the years at school, colleges or community theaters. I think my total stands at about 60 or so. Here's a partial list. See how many you know. Hogwild, There's a Body in the Closet, A Lion In Winter, Man of La Mancha, Long Day's Journey into Night, Aunt Miranda's Will, An Apple for the Teacher, Louder I Can't Hear You, Romeo and Juliet, JB, Macbeth, Oklahoma!, Darkness at the Top of the Stairs, A Man for All Seasons, Becket, Circles, Night Mother, Writers in the Hands of an Angry God, Rumors, Turnabout, The Lady's Not For Burning, Bite My Tongue, Shut My Mouth, A Black Summer Day, Barefoot in the Park, Into the Woods, Mame, Auntie Mame, Mary Mary, Please Don't Eat The Daisies, A Thousand Clowns, Dracula, The Lark, Last of the Red Hot Lovers, Bats Off, Butterflies Are Free, Suddenly Last Summer, Murder on the Rerun and so on. That list represents a lot of hours and a lot of good times. Even if I never make another cent from my theater endeavors, I can't say I've been short-changed.
And now I need to get ready to go the theater. Talk to you tomorrow. I hope.
Saturday, March 25, 2006
The play's the thing ... the ONLY thing ...
And that's what I've been doing: Working frantically on the play. We open next Thursday. We rehearse every day until then. There are tons of things on my list that still need to be done. I've crossed off a lot of things on my list today, but I still have plenty to go. I'm writing this before I have to go back to the theater.
My niece is out of the hospital and maybe doing some better. She's still having problems, but she sounds more like herself and is able to do more for herself. I'm hoping and praying this upward trend continues. I'd appreciate it if you'd keep nagging the Big Guy on her behalf.
My IBD flare continues, but I have it under control with being careful and taking my meds. After the play is over, I'm sure it will finally settle down.
One last thing before I go. Nightrider sent me an email Scrabble game. So far, she is beating the stuffings out of me! It's a lot of fun, and I want to thank her for starting the game.
And now, good night. Have a great day. I hope to be back here tomorrow. We'll see how it goes.
My niece is out of the hospital and maybe doing some better. She's still having problems, but she sounds more like herself and is able to do more for herself. I'm hoping and praying this upward trend continues. I'd appreciate it if you'd keep nagging the Big Guy on her behalf.
My IBD flare continues, but I have it under control with being careful and taking my meds. After the play is over, I'm sure it will finally settle down.
One last thing before I go. Nightrider sent me an email Scrabble game. So far, she is beating the stuffings out of me! It's a lot of fun, and I want to thank her for starting the game.
And now, good night. Have a great day. I hope to be back here tomorrow. We'll see how it goes.
Wednesday, March 22, 2006
bumpdebump
if yr inkin
what i be inkin
then cld be
bumpdebump we
all nite long
like crazy song
what say u
bout us 2
if yr inkin
what i be inkin
crazy we get
everything fit
like glue
or good shoe
stars in sky
laughin up high
But if not,
then never mind.
Copyright 2006. All rights reserved.
what i be inkin
then cld be
bumpdebump we
all nite long
like crazy song
what say u
bout us 2
if yr inkin
what i be inkin
crazy we get
everything fit
like glue
or good shoe
stars in sky
laughin up high
But if not,
then never mind.
Copyright 2006. All rights reserved.
Tuesday, March 21, 2006
Rant (Ver 1.032106)
...
LOADING ANGER MODULE...
RIGHTEOUS FURY EXECUTING...
BEGIN RANT...
It works like this: If you write a book, you own it. If you write a song, you own it. If you write a short story, you own it. What is so hard about that? What is so hard about understanding that you shouldn't steal from other people's works? Are you stupid or what?
Forgive me if I seem abrupt, but I've had it up to here with hacks stealing other people's work and listening to them justify it. They toss around "fair use" even though they don't have the slightest understanding of what it means. They say that it's okay to use other people's words because "it's for charity." They say that it's okay to photocopy plays, books, articles in large quantities because "we're giving them away free." They say that they have a friend who has a cousin who has a brother who is dating a lawyer and she said it was okay.
And if you call them on their twisted thinking, they look at you with wounded eyes and quietly say they were just trying to be "creative."
Let me make it real simple for you. If you steal someone's work, it's theft. Forget about "copyright infringement." Those two words have been tossed around so much that they've practically lost meaning. Let's call it what it is: It's theft. It doesn't matter if you bought the book, the CD, the video, the script, you still have no right to use it to create new works, to adapt it into other forms, to film it, to tape it, to sample it. WHAT IS SO HARD ABOUT THIS?
This will be even simpler. If you steal someone's work, you have no morals. You can babble on about fair use and claim your theft hurts no one and even misquote the copyright laws, but you're nothing more than a common crook. That's all you are.
If you think you might be in violation of copyright, please go to the site for the United States Copyright Office. They have plenty of explanations of what is and isn't copyright theft.
END RANT
EXIT PROGRAM
...
LOADING ANGER MODULE...
RIGHTEOUS FURY EXECUTING...
BEGIN RANT...
It works like this: If you write a book, you own it. If you write a song, you own it. If you write a short story, you own it. What is so hard about that? What is so hard about understanding that you shouldn't steal from other people's works? Are you stupid or what?
Forgive me if I seem abrupt, but I've had it up to here with hacks stealing other people's work and listening to them justify it. They toss around "fair use" even though they don't have the slightest understanding of what it means. They say that it's okay to use other people's words because "it's for charity." They say that it's okay to photocopy plays, books, articles in large quantities because "we're giving them away free." They say that they have a friend who has a cousin who has a brother who is dating a lawyer and she said it was okay.
And if you call them on their twisted thinking, they look at you with wounded eyes and quietly say they were just trying to be "creative."
Let me make it real simple for you. If you steal someone's work, it's theft. Forget about "copyright infringement." Those two words have been tossed around so much that they've practically lost meaning. Let's call it what it is: It's theft. It doesn't matter if you bought the book, the CD, the video, the script, you still have no right to use it to create new works, to adapt it into other forms, to film it, to tape it, to sample it. WHAT IS SO HARD ABOUT THIS?
This will be even simpler. If you steal someone's work, you have no morals. You can babble on about fair use and claim your theft hurts no one and even misquote the copyright laws, but you're nothing more than a common crook. That's all you are.
If you think you might be in violation of copyright, please go to the site for the United States Copyright Office. They have plenty of explanations of what is and isn't copyright theft.
END RANT
EXIT PROGRAM
...
Sunday, March 19, 2006
Set
I thought you might like to see the set for my play now that it's mostly painted and constructed. It still needs a stair rail and a few other minor touches, but basically that's it. I'll take more photos when the furniture and decorative items are in place.
This is the left side of the set.
This is the center of the set.
This is the right side of the set.
Here are all three photos merged with the aid of Photoshop Elements.
This is the left side of the set.
This is the center of the set.
This is the right side of the set.
Here are all three photos merged with the aid of Photoshop Elements.
Saturday, March 18, 2006
A few things about today
My minor IBD flare turned into a major IBD flare. So I spent most of last night and all of today being sick. Not fun. But I still got the poster designed. I hope to get it copied tomorrow so that we can start putting it up next weekend. Depends on how I feel.
Tomorrow I intend to design the program. We won't print it until the week of the production, but I want it done so that I won't be rushed that last week. There are enough last minute things to do then. I don't want to have to try to do something creative in a rush.
The play is coming together. They had a good practice last night. I think the play is going to be a high point in the theater season.
Holly Lisle has released another episode in her podcast series. If you're interested in writing professionally, give it a listen. This installment is titled "The One With Fangs." Click here to hear.
My niece remains in the hospital. Not much improvment. Please continue to remember her in your prayers.
Not much else going on here. I hope you have a wonderful tomorrow. Good night.
Tomorrow I intend to design the program. We won't print it until the week of the production, but I want it done so that I won't be rushed that last week. There are enough last minute things to do then. I don't want to have to try to do something creative in a rush.
The play is coming together. They had a good practice last night. I think the play is going to be a high point in the theater season.
Holly Lisle has released another episode in her podcast series. If you're interested in writing professionally, give it a listen. This installment is titled "The One With Fangs." Click here to hear.
My niece remains in the hospital. Not much improvment. Please continue to remember her in your prayers.
Not much else going on here. I hope you have a wonderful tomorrow. Good night.
Thursday, March 16, 2006
The Ghost Breakers *
"What oh what did Tech do on his night off from play practice?" I hear you asking yourself. In fact, you're consumed by the question, unable to work, sleep or eat as you wonder. Rest easy, my adoring fans. I'm gonna tell you.
I watched Ghost Hunters on the SciFi Channel and talked on the phone to Crystal. Yes, that's right. I spent most of my evening watching guys (and a couple of gals) attempt to catch a few wayward spirits in the act. I also did do a bit of laundry and moved some papers around, but that was it.
Crystal is addicted to Ghost Hunters, so I watched to discover what the attraction was. Some of the stories are bit spooky, but most of them seem explainable. What fascinated me was the gadgets. They have such cool equipment! Infrared cameras, remote sensors, EMF detectors, ultraviolet flashlights, etc. I want that equipment. And I already have some of it.
So naturally we're all going to have to go ghost hunting. That's right. Ghost hunting. I'm trying to find as many supposedly haunted sites as I can, and then I and some friends are going to go out and lasso some spirits. Of course, you will be invited to participate, in person if you can make it, by photos, audio files and blogging if not. It should be a blast even if the spirits are unwilling. And apparently they frequently are.
Of course, if you know me at all, then you know that I don't believe in ghosts, goblins, vampires, etc. I'm a rational person and proud of it. So what's the attraction for me? The equipment, of course! I love gadgets. And even though the Ghost Hunters don't use them, I know that I'm going to use a couple of lasers. I don't know for what yet, but by golly, I've got them, and we're going to use them.
Beware, spirits, we're comin' for ya!
(*The title of an old Bob Hope movie about busting some ghosts.)
I watched Ghost Hunters on the SciFi Channel and talked on the phone to Crystal. Yes, that's right. I spent most of my evening watching guys (and a couple of gals) attempt to catch a few wayward spirits in the act. I also did do a bit of laundry and moved some papers around, but that was it.
Crystal is addicted to Ghost Hunters, so I watched to discover what the attraction was. Some of the stories are bit spooky, but most of them seem explainable. What fascinated me was the gadgets. They have such cool equipment! Infrared cameras, remote sensors, EMF detectors, ultraviolet flashlights, etc. I want that equipment. And I already have some of it.
So naturally we're all going to have to go ghost hunting. That's right. Ghost hunting. I'm trying to find as many supposedly haunted sites as I can, and then I and some friends are going to go out and lasso some spirits. Of course, you will be invited to participate, in person if you can make it, by photos, audio files and blogging if not. It should be a blast even if the spirits are unwilling. And apparently they frequently are.Of course, if you know me at all, then you know that I don't believe in ghosts, goblins, vampires, etc. I'm a rational person and proud of it. So what's the attraction for me? The equipment, of course! I love gadgets. And even though the Ghost Hunters don't use them, I know that I'm going to use a couple of lasers. I don't know for what yet, but by golly, I've got them, and we're going to use them.
Beware, spirits, we're comin' for ya!
(*The title of an old Bob Hope movie about busting some ghosts.)
Wednesday, March 15, 2006
5
It was a bad practice last night. My fault. They stumbled on lines they had before, forgot blocking, and got side-tracked on little bits of business when they are still struggling with the main action of the play. And I couldn't figure out how to get them back on track. I let myself get distracted with set problems and personal problems, and I couldn't get the energy going. As director, it's up to me to set the tone and the pace of the play. It wasn't a terrible practice, of course -- they're too good a group to have a terrible practice -- but I'm not sure if we accomplished much. And we need to be moving forward every practice. The play opens in just 15 days. Yikes.
Despite the looming deadline, I gave everyone the night off tonight. I think part of the problem is that we're all tired. A night off to recharge and refresh is better than spinning our wheels in a frustrating practice. And let's be honest, I need the break, too.
So what am I going to do tonight?
More play stuff, of course. I need to finish designing the posters and start on the program. I like doing creative things like that so it should be fun. And some laundry and a little housework. Maybe watch some TV if I can find anything that's not boring. Or just sit down with a couple of books I've been wanting to read. The thing is, I might just veg out and do nothing. Wouldn't that be nice?
****
I figured out what fueled some of the malaise that has been affecting me recently: I've not been able to do any real writing since the play practice started. There simply isn't enough time in the day. One of the cool things about National Novel Writing Month -- maybe the coolest from my perspective -- was the uninterrupted hours spent writing. I fell into a creative state when the words were flowing. The world recedes. Sounds rather mystical, but that's what happens. I think most people experience this if they intensely concentrate on a project.
That's when you look up and realize that you haven't eaten supper, it's midnight, and you wonder where the hours went. Time is relative to what you're doing. Compare your time in a doctor's office with watching an exciting football game in which OSU beats OU. (Hey, it's happened before! It could happen again.) One is slow; the other is fast. Relative.
***
Holly Lisle has started a podcast. This is a major cool. Holly will be discussing writing on her shows as well as answering listeners' questions. This is just another part of Holly's "pay it forward" philosophy of life. She's an excellent writer and excellent human being. Check out her podcast here.
**
Someday I'm going to snap and strangle one of my customers at work. He came in yesterday, and I was treated to another 30 minutes of his bigoted, backward thinking. He is a self-proclaimed Republican, but he's one of those Republicans that make the other Republicans flinch. He hates blacks, gays, Mexicans, Arabs, Native American Indians, Catholics, Mormons, Jews, etc. He thinks the best solution to every foreign problem is "nuke 'em!" He's 82 years mean, and I don't think he will ever die since Heaven won't take him and Hell is scared of him, But if on some blessed day he does croak, he will be so filled with bile and meanness that his liver will continue to function for years after he's dead.
I used to feel sorry for him. His wife left him years ago, his children moved away and don't speak to him, he lives alone in an old house that is filled with newspapers and cans. He looks frail and lost until you hear him speak. Then you realize his mind is still sharp, but not as sharp as his tongue. If I owned where I worked, I tell him to take his business elsewhere, anywhere but here. But I don't so I smile a lot and think about the pleasant sounds his neckbones would make as I crushed them. Ahhh ... Hmm, could this be my dark side that people keep harping about?
Could be.
*
All praise Dave Ramsey! You will recall that I've been following his principles to get out of debt. One of the most important things he recommends is to have an Emergency Fund. He says you should save that first.
Yesterday at lunch, while reconciling my checkbook, I discovered that I had written down a paycheck twice. Yikes. This meant that the checks I mailed Monday would bounce, bounce, bounce ... except I have a small Emergency Fund. I went to the bank and transferred the money from the EF to my checking account.
Before Dave Ramsey, I would have panicked and been unable to cover those checks without borrowing money. So ... all praise Dave Ramsey! Learn more about Dave Ramsey here.
And I think I'll close on that and get ready for work.
Despite the looming deadline, I gave everyone the night off tonight. I think part of the problem is that we're all tired. A night off to recharge and refresh is better than spinning our wheels in a frustrating practice. And let's be honest, I need the break, too.
So what am I going to do tonight?
More play stuff, of course. I need to finish designing the posters and start on the program. I like doing creative things like that so it should be fun. And some laundry and a little housework. Maybe watch some TV if I can find anything that's not boring. Or just sit down with a couple of books I've been wanting to read. The thing is, I might just veg out and do nothing. Wouldn't that be nice?
****
I figured out what fueled some of the malaise that has been affecting me recently: I've not been able to do any real writing since the play practice started. There simply isn't enough time in the day. One of the cool things about National Novel Writing Month -- maybe the coolest from my perspective -- was the uninterrupted hours spent writing. I fell into a creative state when the words were flowing. The world recedes. Sounds rather mystical, but that's what happens. I think most people experience this if they intensely concentrate on a project.
That's when you look up and realize that you haven't eaten supper, it's midnight, and you wonder where the hours went. Time is relative to what you're doing. Compare your time in a doctor's office with watching an exciting football game in which OSU beats OU. (Hey, it's happened before! It could happen again.) One is slow; the other is fast. Relative.
***
Holly Lisle has started a podcast. This is a major cool. Holly will be discussing writing on her shows as well as answering listeners' questions. This is just another part of Holly's "pay it forward" philosophy of life. She's an excellent writer and excellent human being. Check out her podcast here.
**
Someday I'm going to snap and strangle one of my customers at work. He came in yesterday, and I was treated to another 30 minutes of his bigoted, backward thinking. He is a self-proclaimed Republican, but he's one of those Republicans that make the other Republicans flinch. He hates blacks, gays, Mexicans, Arabs, Native American Indians, Catholics, Mormons, Jews, etc. He thinks the best solution to every foreign problem is "nuke 'em!" He's 82 years mean, and I don't think he will ever die since Heaven won't take him and Hell is scared of him, But if on some blessed day he does croak, he will be so filled with bile and meanness that his liver will continue to function for years after he's dead.
I used to feel sorry for him. His wife left him years ago, his children moved away and don't speak to him, he lives alone in an old house that is filled with newspapers and cans. He looks frail and lost until you hear him speak. Then you realize his mind is still sharp, but not as sharp as his tongue. If I owned where I worked, I tell him to take his business elsewhere, anywhere but here. But I don't so I smile a lot and think about the pleasant sounds his neckbones would make as I crushed them. Ahhh ... Hmm, could this be my dark side that people keep harping about?
Could be.
*
All praise Dave Ramsey! You will recall that I've been following his principles to get out of debt. One of the most important things he recommends is to have an Emergency Fund. He says you should save that first.
Yesterday at lunch, while reconciling my checkbook, I discovered that I had written down a paycheck twice. Yikes. This meant that the checks I mailed Monday would bounce, bounce, bounce ... except I have a small Emergency Fund. I went to the bank and transferred the money from the EF to my checking account.
Before Dave Ramsey, I would have panicked and been unable to cover those checks without borrowing money. So ... all praise Dave Ramsey! Learn more about Dave Ramsey here.
And I think I'll close on that and get ready for work.
Tuesday, March 14, 2006
Trixie's Meme
Trixie tagged me with this meme several days ago, but I'm running behind on everything. I'm slow, but I get there eventually.
Trixie's Meme
Let's make this a meme, shall we? Answer these questions here, and if you wish, tag five folks and have them answer the same on your blog.
Fasten your seat belts; here we go!
1. What is the best thing you've done this week? Probably the work on the play. I had a shaky actor that confided in me about a problem with stage fright. I talked to the actor and gave a few exercises, which seemed to really help.
2. What's the most meaningful personal issue you've thought about this week? Getting myself back on track with my diet. I will have a loss to post when the Wednesday Weigh In rolls around on The Great Slim Down.
3. What's the biggest nuisance task you have gotten out of the way this week? I finally sorted through a file of miscellaneous stuff and threw a lot of it away and put the rest into the proper place.
4. What's the biggest annoyance hanging over your head this week? Not really an annoyance, but I need to finish the mailing of the theater group newsletter, and I'm having to wait for a couple of people to give me their names. If they would, I could get it finished and checked off my list.
5. What has made you happy this week? I can't think of anything in particular, but the play rehearsals have had a lot of laughs in them.
6. Have you cried this week? Why? Well, yes, actually. I went to my boss's dad's funeral. I didn't really know the deceased, but I was moved by the sorrow of many of the family.
7. What are you looking forward to most this week? Getting more items checked off my list. And the weekend where I have some free time to work on the March family newsletter. Yes, I know it should already be mailed. Sue me.
8. What has just flat made you crazy this week? The stupid way we humans will choose darkness and self-destruction over all the thousands of alternatives out there. I keep hoping that we will finally grow up, but we don't. I know we're a fallen people, but I think we can do better. We don't have to wallow in prejudice, pride and sorrow. I try to not watch the news because my blood boils as I hear about what those idiots in Washington, DC -- both stinking parties -- have done this week.
9. What bliss have you experienced this week? I'd have to say that it was when I was working on a creative project. There's an emotional state that I get in when the work is going well. The world disappears. Hours literally pass without notice. It's cool.
10. What have you prayed to change this week? Well, I asked for health, wisdom and happiness for my niece, my family, my extended family, Mikey and his mom, my friends, my church and our nation. I also asked for wisdom and patience for me. When I get tired, I can be short with people. I'm trying to be kinder and more supportive. I want to be able to lift people up, not drag them down, even when I have to correct their acting.
I'm not going to tag anyone because I think most may have already done it. But if you haven't, meme away and let us know so we can read your answers.
Trixie's Meme
Let's make this a meme, shall we? Answer these questions here, and if you wish, tag five folks and have them answer the same on your blog.
Fasten your seat belts; here we go!
1. What is the best thing you've done this week? Probably the work on the play. I had a shaky actor that confided in me about a problem with stage fright. I talked to the actor and gave a few exercises, which seemed to really help.
2. What's the most meaningful personal issue you've thought about this week? Getting myself back on track with my diet. I will have a loss to post when the Wednesday Weigh In rolls around on The Great Slim Down.
3. What's the biggest nuisance task you have gotten out of the way this week? I finally sorted through a file of miscellaneous stuff and threw a lot of it away and put the rest into the proper place.
4. What's the biggest annoyance hanging over your head this week? Not really an annoyance, but I need to finish the mailing of the theater group newsletter, and I'm having to wait for a couple of people to give me their names. If they would, I could get it finished and checked off my list.
5. What has made you happy this week? I can't think of anything in particular, but the play rehearsals have had a lot of laughs in them.
6. Have you cried this week? Why? Well, yes, actually. I went to my boss's dad's funeral. I didn't really know the deceased, but I was moved by the sorrow of many of the family.
7. What are you looking forward to most this week? Getting more items checked off my list. And the weekend where I have some free time to work on the March family newsletter. Yes, I know it should already be mailed. Sue me.
8. What has just flat made you crazy this week? The stupid way we humans will choose darkness and self-destruction over all the thousands of alternatives out there. I keep hoping that we will finally grow up, but we don't. I know we're a fallen people, but I think we can do better. We don't have to wallow in prejudice, pride and sorrow. I try to not watch the news because my blood boils as I hear about what those idiots in Washington, DC -- both stinking parties -- have done this week.
9. What bliss have you experienced this week? I'd have to say that it was when I was working on a creative project. There's an emotional state that I get in when the work is going well. The world disappears. Hours literally pass without notice. It's cool.
10. What have you prayed to change this week? Well, I asked for health, wisdom and happiness for my niece, my family, my extended family, Mikey and his mom, my friends, my church and our nation. I also asked for wisdom and patience for me. When I get tired, I can be short with people. I'm trying to be kinder and more supportive. I want to be able to lift people up, not drag them down, even when I have to correct their acting.
I'm not going to tag anyone because I think most may have already done it. But if you haven't, meme away and let us know so we can read your answers.
Monday, March 13, 2006
The long dark tea-time of the soul *
I'm here. I'm still alive. I think about posting a lot. Particularly when I'm at the theater and it's midnight and I realize that if I had only not volunteered to direct, I could be posting. Except I would have posted earlier since I try to go to sleep before midnight. Sleep ... Once I knew what that was.
The play is going well. The actors are coming along. I have a couple of problem areas to work on, but overall, it's shaping up nicely. The set should be finished this weekend, although it won't get its furnishings until the week of the performance. We're borrowing the furniture so we try to limit its time at the theater. I'll take a picture of the empty set after we paint the floor Saturday so you can see how it turned out. A friend of mine, an interior decorator, is decorating the set, and she's doing a great job.
Work and the play. That's pretty much my life until the end of the month. Why I ever direct is a mystery to me. It's a lot of work if you try to do it well, and I'm incapable of not trying to do my best. I hate to see plays where the set has been slopped up there and the actors stumble over their lines. I'm determined that my actors have the best available and as much time as they need to master their characters. I want the play to be something they're proud of having been in when April 3rd rolls around. (The play's performances are March 30 - April 2.)
Everything is getting done on schedule. I have a list of what has to be done, and I check items off daily. Too few items, but at least things are getting done. Some things won't be done simply because we'll run out of time, but the major and most of the minor items will be completed. I think most projects are like that. Eventually a deadline rolls around, and you go with what you have.
They sent my niece home from the hospital. Basically they pumped her full of steroids and pain meds, said they didn't know what was wrong other than something was, recommended she get some more tests, and that was that, another fine example of the medical care for the uninsured in this nation.
I choose the title to the post due to the malaise that has affected me over the past few days. It's been busy and exhausting, what with work, the play, a funeral, an IBD flare, general aches and pains, etc. I need a vacation. A few days away on a beach. A new life. All the usual things I long for, but don't make happen. Ah, there's the rub.
Anyway, it's 6:40 p.m. now, and I have to get to the theater. I'll try to stay in touch more. Night y'all.
(*With apologies to Douglas Adams for borrowing the title of one of books)
The play is going well. The actors are coming along. I have a couple of problem areas to work on, but overall, it's shaping up nicely. The set should be finished this weekend, although it won't get its furnishings until the week of the performance. We're borrowing the furniture so we try to limit its time at the theater. I'll take a picture of the empty set after we paint the floor Saturday so you can see how it turned out. A friend of mine, an interior decorator, is decorating the set, and she's doing a great job.
Work and the play. That's pretty much my life until the end of the month. Why I ever direct is a mystery to me. It's a lot of work if you try to do it well, and I'm incapable of not trying to do my best. I hate to see plays where the set has been slopped up there and the actors stumble over their lines. I'm determined that my actors have the best available and as much time as they need to master their characters. I want the play to be something they're proud of having been in when April 3rd rolls around. (The play's performances are March 30 - April 2.)
Everything is getting done on schedule. I have a list of what has to be done, and I check items off daily. Too few items, but at least things are getting done. Some things won't be done simply because we'll run out of time, but the major and most of the minor items will be completed. I think most projects are like that. Eventually a deadline rolls around, and you go with what you have.
They sent my niece home from the hospital. Basically they pumped her full of steroids and pain meds, said they didn't know what was wrong other than something was, recommended she get some more tests, and that was that, another fine example of the medical care for the uninsured in this nation.
I choose the title to the post due to the malaise that has affected me over the past few days. It's been busy and exhausting, what with work, the play, a funeral, an IBD flare, general aches and pains, etc. I need a vacation. A few days away on a beach. A new life. All the usual things I long for, but don't make happen. Ah, there's the rub.
Anyway, it's 6:40 p.m. now, and I have to get to the theater. I'll try to stay in touch more. Night y'all.
(*With apologies to Douglas Adams for borrowing the title of one of books)
Wednesday, March 08, 2006
Frustration
There are few things more frustrating than knowing someone you care about is suffering and there is nothing or little you can do.
My niece is in an ambulance on her way to a hospital in Tulsa. She's in the middle of a Crohn's flare. All I can do is pray and tell my sister to tell my niece that I'm praying for her and that I love her. It doesn't seem enough. Oh, I believe in the power of prayer. I don't think I could live in this world if I didn't, but at times like these, I wish I was a doctor. I wish that I could do more, that my help was more tangible. I wish I could ease her pain. I uselessly wish a thousand things. And knowing that there is better care out there available, but we can't afford it, can't get it because we're poor -- is it any wonder that I'm a screaming liberal? Of course the kicker is that none of my self-serving angst helps her at all. It's not about you, jerk, I tell myself. So I pray.
I'm in that same situation with someone else. Someone that I still care about even though the bridge between us is a smoking ruin. I stand on my shore and watch helplessly as she, like my niece, hurts. Oh, I thought about a phone call, an email, a postcard, a letter, a note, but it might hurt her, might add to her burden, might increase her pain, and she made it clear months ago that she didn't want anything else to do with me, that I only cause her sorrow. So I can only watch and pace and wish I could be there for her, wish that I could do something, anything. I can't, so I pray.
Maybe it's a lack of faith on my part, but it doesn't seem to be enough. Not even close to enough. Sometimes I really hate the world we live in. We deserve better, but I don't see us getting it. Not here. Not while we live in a world ruled by greed, fear and violence.
It's a bad night following a bad day. That's how it goes sometimes. Tomorrow will be better. Please pray for my niece and all the other people suffering out there. It may be the only hope, the only chance we all have.
My niece is in an ambulance on her way to a hospital in Tulsa. She's in the middle of a Crohn's flare. All I can do is pray and tell my sister to tell my niece that I'm praying for her and that I love her. It doesn't seem enough. Oh, I believe in the power of prayer. I don't think I could live in this world if I didn't, but at times like these, I wish I was a doctor. I wish that I could do more, that my help was more tangible. I wish I could ease her pain. I uselessly wish a thousand things. And knowing that there is better care out there available, but we can't afford it, can't get it because we're poor -- is it any wonder that I'm a screaming liberal? Of course the kicker is that none of my self-serving angst helps her at all. It's not about you, jerk, I tell myself. So I pray.
I'm in that same situation with someone else. Someone that I still care about even though the bridge between us is a smoking ruin. I stand on my shore and watch helplessly as she, like my niece, hurts. Oh, I thought about a phone call, an email, a postcard, a letter, a note, but it might hurt her, might add to her burden, might increase her pain, and she made it clear months ago that she didn't want anything else to do with me, that I only cause her sorrow. So I can only watch and pace and wish I could be there for her, wish that I could do something, anything. I can't, so I pray.
Maybe it's a lack of faith on my part, but it doesn't seem to be enough. Not even close to enough. Sometimes I really hate the world we live in. We deserve better, but I don't see us getting it. Not here. Not while we live in a world ruled by greed, fear and violence.
It's a bad night following a bad day. That's how it goes sometimes. Tomorrow will be better. Please pray for my niece and all the other people suffering out there. It may be the only hope, the only chance we all have.
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