Tuesday, April 29, 2008

Tuesday Tally

EotF Update

total words to date: 88,644

pages: 392

chapters revised: 3/21 (draft 4)

 

T.C. Status

word count: 1471

 

Goals for next week:

  • send poetry submissions  (2 batches)
  • revise at least five chapters of EotF
  • Fantasy newsletter

 

My husband finished reading EotF, the first to get all the way through. He pointed out a few big issues which I will address in this current draft. I'm glad to have an honest critiquer. :-) Hopefully correcting those issues will also bring my word count back up, as most of my editing thus far has been deleting.

 

I think my problem with T.C. is not knowing my story well enough. I know the general arc, and a few major scenes, but that leaves a lot of empty space in between. I am proving myself to be much more of a plotter than a pantser. I'll let the story stew some more while I work through this round of edits on EotF.         

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Update

Feeling much better today.

 

Here's a site I've found recently. Very cool, with book news and give-aways.

 

http://fantasybookcritic.blogspot.com/

Tuesday, April 22, 2008

Update and QA

Saturday morning it was clear that B was mostly better and very energetic, but equally clear that he had passed the cold to me. I've been miserable since Sunday.

 

I did spend some time trying out the early levels of Age of Conan and looking at the class feats. Combat is easier than I expected, and I had a lot of fun in the little time I played the beta. My husband is even more excited for the game's release next month.

 

5,000 Questions... My answers so far...

 

208. Who is yourfavorite poet of those who are alive right now? Liz. Yes, she is my sister. And a very good poet. Am I biased? Perhaps.


209. What is your favorite song from the 90's? This is tough. So many good songs! I've mentioned it as a favorite before, but I'm going to say "I Want to Spend my Lifetime Loving You", the love theme from Mask of Zorro.


210. If you were in alphabet soup what letter would you be? M for Mary, Mom, messy; turn it over and it's a W – first letter of my maiden name, also stands for weird and writer.


211. Do you believe in fairies, ghosts, aliens, angels, dwarves, elves, etc.? Yes to ghosts, aliens (as in life on other planets), angels, and dwarves (dwarfism anyone?). Elves and fairies, no. Though I really, really want to believe in fairies.


212. What makes you want to be someone's friend? similar interests


213. Do you troll around the Internet harassing people anonymously for fun? No. I don't like trollers, and don't see the fun of harassing someone anonymously or otherwise. It's sad that some people are that childish.


214. Have you ever seen the movie A Man Who Fell to Earth? Nope. Never heard of it.


215. What is your favorite line from a movie? Alright, more than a line… but there a lot of good quotes from "Serenity", such as this one:

 

Capt. Mal Reynolds: But it ain't all buttons and charts, little albatross. You know what the first rule of flyin' is? Well I suppose you do, since you already know what I'm about to say.
River Tam: I do. But I like to hear you say it.
Capt. Mal Reynolds: Love. You can know all the math in the 'Verse, but take a boat in the air you don't love, she'll shake you off just as sure as the turning of worlds. Love keeps her in the air when she oughta fall down, tells ya she's hurtin' 'fore she keens. Makes her home.
River Tam: Storm's getting worse.
Capt. Mal Reynolds: We'll pass through it soon enough.

 

And, for a more comedic quote, from the Teen Titans series:

Cyborg: "Man, how could you deny me the all meat experience [pizza]?"
Beast Boy: "Dude, I've been most of those animals!"

Later… as the argument continues…

Cyborg: "There's no meat in pepperoni!"


216. What's your favorite video game? Culdcept Saga


217. Have you ever taken something that wasn't yours? Yes


218. What is one phrase people say that irritates you? Can't think of one at the moment.


219. You allow strangers to read your diary, but would you let your parents read it? My personal, handwritten diary I would be more likely to let strangers read than my parents – strangers who have no point of reference and won't be hurt or disappointed by things I've written in my low moments. As for my online diary (my blog), both strangers and my parents read it.


220. Hot steamy bubble bath or quick in and out shower? Both have their benefits. The former for relaxing, and the latter for assisting the wake up process.


221. Are you allergic to anything? Yes. I have seasonal allergies, am allergic to cats and dogs, and some plants.


222. What is your favorite Terminator movie? Been too long for me to say. I love the new series though, and am glad that Sarah Connor Chronicles has been renewed for a second season.


223. What is your favorite fast food? Sausage Egg McMuffin


224. What would someone have to do to get you to never speak to him or her again? Be hostile physically, viciously attack me regarding one of my values, or abuse me in some form.


225. Would (or have) you ever whip someone or be whipped by someone in bed? No. I'm not into S&M.

 
226. Have you ever said 'I hate everyone' and really meant it literally?
No. I'm sure I've said it, but what I really meant was "I hate this moment in life" or "I hate myself"/"I am unworthy of everyone".

Friday, April 18, 2008

Conan

I don't think I'll be on much the next few days. As my husband's computer isn't completely set up yet (just got parts this morning), he's using my computer for the Beta PvP event for Age of Conan this weekend. He's very excited. I, for one, have been enjoying running Oblivion on maximum graphics and settings. Looks so beautiful.

Wednesday, April 16, 2008

Organizing...

I've got all my needed files transferred over, but my folders need a bit of organizing. And I'm still getting used to methods of finding what I want on this PC. I will be answering more of those 5,000 questions soon.

Tuesday, April 15, 2008

Not much of a Tuesday Tally

B's still sick. At least no one else is.

 

Not much to report on writing, as I haven't been able to access my old files since Friday (monitor, mouse, and keyboard hooked up on my new computer). Hopefully I'll get everything set up to transfer files tonight.

 

So far really liking my new PC and Windows Vista. Had to buy new desks Saturday though, as the computer case for this new one wouldn't fit in the cubby of the old one. Lots of new things to get used to.

Monday, April 14, 2008

Poor B

I'm typing this on my new computer (need to transfer files still).

B is sick today. Was a little warm this morning, so sent him to school. When he got home, his eyes were watery and he looked tired. Hardly ate any lunch either, just peaches (and only when my husband fed him a spoonful). He took a long nap after lunch. He's pretty hot now. Husband is off buying juice and a thermometer. Gave B some Tylenol. Tried getting him to drink some water, but he wouldn't. Hopefully he'll drink juice. I doubt he'll be eating any dinner tonight. He's also started coughing. Hope he gets well soon. :-(

Friday, April 11, 2008

New Computer!

Monday we ordered parts for a new computer (prepping for Age of Conan). Today we got the last of the parts we needed. (Surprisingly, as the estimated arrival from one company wasn't until next Monday.) My husband is building it, first time doing so. This first one will be mine. Once we get it up and running, we'll order the parts for his. It will be nice having new computers. These are almost four years old.

Wednesday, April 9, 2008

Page 99

I recently learned about the 99 page test: “…skip to page 99, read it, and if the writing or scene grabs you, chances are, it’s worth beginning. If not, toss it.”

 

Of course, curious, I turn to the current page 99 for EotF. Here it is:

 

Jex shifted. "If I had another horse, or if Nac didn't mean so much, I'd let you take him in your search for your sister."

 

Marian snorted. "Trust me, I'm glad to be rid of him. Your stupid horse wouldn't shut up. If I could, I'd pay you to take him back."

 

"Wait. What do you mean he wouldn't shut up?"

 

"He just kept talking, complaining and telling endless stories that I have no interest in…"

 

"I thought you said you couldn't talk to horses."

 

"I couldn't. But now I can. Whatever happened on that mountain… apparently awoke more than just Fey magic."

 

"I wouldn't go around advertising that if I were you."

 

Marian paled, realizing the implications of the wrong person finding out. He's a dasa, subservient to an enchanter. What am I doing blabbering to him about my abilities? He's right. I shouldn't be talking about it. Not even to him. Especially to him. "You can't tell anyone. Just leave me alone. Forget you ever met me."

 

"Already forgotten. It's a good thing the bard didn't overhear. I don't think he'd be as generous."

 

Marian lifted her chin defiantly. "Cail is a good man. He wouldn't turn me in."

 

Jex spoke softly. "It's good to hope so, but I wouldn't suggest betting your life on it."

 

What would your reaction be? Toss or read? Who knows if this will be my same page 99 once I'm done with revisions. Got some big ones in the works. But an interesting test nonetheless. And if you're more of a first pages person, you can read the first scene on my website, or a slightly modified version of the first chapter on Crapometer.

Tuesday, April 8, 2008

Tuesday Tally for a less progressive week

EotF Update

total words to date: 89,801

pages: 397

chapters revised: 0/21 (draft 4)

 

T.C. Status

word count: 1471

 

Previous Goals:

  • pick my next targets for poetry submission - to do 
  • write WDC Fantasy Newsletter - submitted
  • mailings for EotF - to do
  • get research books from library - something!
  • 2000 new words in T.C. - none... :S

Goals for next week:

  • carry over unfinished goals from last week 
  • get butt in gear        

 

My chapter seems to have been overlooked at Crapometer. Was hoping for some feedback. Anyone is free to go read and comment on chapter one of EotF.

 

We saw "The Seeker: Dark is Rising" over the weekend. It wasn't bad. I was disappointed though - they took out Jonathan Jackson's character! The Netflix movie sleeve still listed him in the cast, as well as a lot of the movie sites, and they even did an interview with him about his character, but I waited and waited and there was no Jonathan. :-( They didn't even have any extras on the disc with deleted scenes.

 

In a completely different realm of news (well, not completely, still media-ish), guess which music group is getting back together after 14 years?? New Kids on the Block! They're not so new, and certainly not kids, but I'm interested in hearing their new stuff. I have one of their early CDs. :-)

Monday, April 7, 2008

Sorry about the delay

I've been a little off track this past week (both here and with many of my goals). Hope to get back in the swing of things this week. I should have at least some progress to mention in tomorrow's tally.

Friday, April 4, 2008

A couple more Q&A

5,000 Questions... My answers so far...

 

201. Put these creatures in order from what you would least like to be reincarnated as (1), to what you would most like to be reincarnated as (10) assuming reincarnation ended up existing AND you were given a choice.
1 – vulture

2 – rock

3 – manta ray

4 – wild dog

5 – oak tree

6 – caterpillar

7 – house dog

8 – male human

9 – female human

10 – dolphin

 

202. What do you feel unworthy of? my son. I often feel not good enough for him. he may be a demon sometimes, but I've heard much worse stories, and overall he's rather polite and well mannered.


203. Would you rather be remembered for having done something for humanity or being a really nice person? Shouldn't they be synonymous? I know it's not… but at least being a really nice person is showing true humanity. So, my answer is the latter – really nice person. A good example of this is the finale of Celebrity Apprentice. The finalists were Piers Morgan and Trace Adkins. Piers was rude, harsh, and walked the line of decency, but won a LOT of money for a great charity. Trace, on the other hand, composed himself with integrity, was humble, and the best definition of a really nice person; just a decent great guy. But he didn't have the contacts to raise such amounts of money. When it came down to it, no one, not even Piers, could say anything bad about Trace. Humanity would be a much better place with more people like Trace Adkins.


204. Which do you value more: science or intuition? Intuition. That's really what most science boils down to anyway. how are theories created before they are tested and anything proven fact? intuition. and science can be disproved. Trusting in intuition will take us further than trusting in science.


205. Your best friend and your significant other are in the hospital at the same time with the same ailment. Who do you visit first? My significant other (though in this case both are one and the same).


206. Does the universe revolve around human beings? No. we like to think so, but we are only a small part of this universe. Other planets and star systems would still exist unchanged if we were gone. Even this earth doesn't need us or revolve around us. We are a strong force, but not the Be All, End All.


207. If you are no longer a virgin, do you wish you still were? No, I do not wish I was still a virgin.

Thursday, April 3, 2008

200 down, 4800 to go

5,000 Questions... My answers so far...

 

183. What is your favorite band? Twelve Girls Band.


184. What's the best cheesy 80's song? "Walk Like an Egyptian"


185. What's the best kind of movie to see on a date? comedy is good for first date, as long as you have the same idea of comedy. but if it's the end of a longer date (as in more than just dinner and a movie), or not a first date, then thriller/suspense is a great choice (get the girl clinging to the guy and all).


186. Do you like to sit in the front, middle or back of the Movie Theater? back. I don't like the "huge, in your face" experience of up front. too much neck craning.


187. Have you ever been inside an abandoned building? I'm sure the answer is yes, though I have no memorable moments to share.


188. Under what circumstances would you agree to work for free? good promotion for me, not too much work, good cause, or once-in-a-lifetime experience not to be passed up.


189. Candles or strobe lights? candles. I'm a romantic.


190. Do you think the Lord of the Rings movies are true to the books or did Hollywood change the story too much? I can't say, as I haven't read the books. I do love the movies though.


191. When you see a stranger on the street does your first reaction lean towards thinking of this person as a potential friend or as a potential threat? Neither. On the street I'm either in my own world or too shy to contemplate any sort of relationship with a stranger.


192. Is it natural for human beings to fear and distrust each other, or is it cultural? A bit of both. I think there is that fear of the unknown, which you can see even in newborns that react badly to seeing a new face. At the same time, culture really shapes us. Would we have such fears if not for terrorism, crime, the news. I'd like to think that someday we all get along, trust each other completely; though I know that day won't come until the lion lies down with the lamb.


193. What do you really want to buy? a house.


194. You have to choose. Would you be happier marrying someone rich for their money or living in the streets and subway tunnels with someone you love? homeless with someone I love. It's true that home is where the heart is. Marrying someone for money, or some other reason, would only create a prison.


195. If someone wanted to understand you what book could they read that would help? "My Letter to the World", my unpublished book of poetry.


196. Do you think it’s odd that Americans have freedom of religion and yet call themselves 'one nation under god'? this nation was founded for this very reason, freedom to worship as we please. God paved the way for our freedom, our constitution, it is only fitting that we are a nation under Him. The line does not insist that we worship him, or that we are united in our beliefs, but gives him credit for our existence.


197. In what sense are you a minority? I am an introvert, one of an estimated thirty percent of the population.


198. Are you anti social? No. I don't shun society, or have anger towards it. I merely don't know how best to interact with it…


199. Do you photograph well? meh. I do well with a trained photographer, but random photos will have random results.


200. Do you think that human beings would survive through a nuclear winter? no. I don't think we can make the necessary preparations. If we technically could prepare, I don't think we would. By the time it was pressing enough to do so, it would be too late.

Wednesday, April 2, 2008

Awesome + Awesome = Most Awesome!

In other words, yesterday the new song available for download on Rockband was "Still Alive", the end credit song to Portal. :-) Had a lot of fun singing it last night.

Tuesday, April 1, 2008

Tuesday Tally - with real, certifiable progress!

No Fooling Around in This Entry

EotF Update

total words to date: 89,801

pages: 397

chapters revised: 0/21 (draft 4)

 

T.C. Status

word count: 1471

 

Previous Goals:

  • write a minimum of one paragraph (or 10 lines dialogue) every day toward T.C. - missed a couple days, but wrote over 1000 words this week! 
  • send out Blazing Princess again - prepping to mail 
  • find good website on albinism - found a good one

Goals for next week:

  • pick my next targets for poetry submission 
  • write WDC Fantasy Newsletter 
  • mailings for EotF
  • get research books from library
  • 2000 new words in T.C.      

 

I'm happy with my writing progress this week. Let's see if I can do even better this next one. I'm going to extend my poll one more week, and also offer it on my website to get more votes. So far it's a tie!

 

It's been such a long day. And it's not even noon yet... Ah well. I shall survive. Though I am definitely taking a nap when B and P do.