THE WEEKEND PROGRESS REPORT 2005

[MacAllister]

Hurray for Kita!!!!

http://bestsmileys.com/dancing/1.gifhttp://bestsmileys.com/dancing/12.gifhttp://bestsmileys.com/dancing/7.gifAnd I liked the "sleep-deprived cheese" line so much that I stole it. :D

[triceretops]

Hi Liam. The end is in sight but I'm agonizing over it. If you remember Independance Day, I'm looking for that glorious save the world theme with all the bells and whistles complete with a "We will not go quietly into that good night and you have all forgotten what our forefathers died and strived for and....." You get the picture. I think you call it "Epic" payoff or some such. I have to stop thinking Star Wars pomposity here, and just write the damn thing chunk at a time.

Now my take on you is that you're knocking out TWO scripts at once? Christ on a wagon wheel, are these two books the last two of your three-book deal? You have a trilogy here, or are they stand-alones? Whatever, hang tough my horror writing friend. I can't imagine what kind of outlining, notes and chronology you have to keep score with. Sounds like a gaggle of characters to me. Keep us posted, eh?

Tri

[TashaGoddard]

Congratulations Barb!
:snoopy: :snoopy: :snoopy:
Well done Kita!
:TheWave:

About 2000 words for me (estimating because some of it's handwritten). Much of it non-WIP; some of it WIP-related, but again not really word-county. But they're all words on paper/screen, which is of the good. Especially considering I also had to pull a 20-hour day midweek. (Somehow I don't think I'm going to finish by July, though - did I change that goal yet? I'm thinking end of the year might be more realistic; but maybe I'll get to take a holiday some time and write, write, write.

[Unique]

:poke: Ok, Ok - quit pushing, dammitol.


875 words. Words that count, anyway.

My winged muse tells me I have to finish the 'Writing As Therapy' portion before I can get to the 'good stuff'. The bloody wench! She flits through the house laughing and cackling - would someone please loan me a flyswatter - mine's too small.

And all these voices! Who are all these people whispering in my ear? I'd quite forgotten you have to be slightly insane to be an effective writer. Are they going to lock me up again?

I've printed out all the humor and horror prompts to take with me on an upcoming trip. I promise to write something for each one. If nothing else, I can roll them up to swat that dratted muse....

Barb, I think the taser's working. Has Liam loaned you that phone, yet?

[MacAllister]

i've written nothing this week. nothing. Nothing. NOTHING. NOTHING, dammit, NOTHING!

But I DID have the weird dream about the editor and the Harley and the editor wouldn't let me put my feet anywhere on the bike, not even to clutch (which doesn't really make sense, because a motorcycle clutch is a hand-lever, but nonetheless) and the windy, narrow, forested, steep little path...

And if I interpret the dream-editor as my INTERNAL editor, and the motorcycle as the story....

[ritinrider]

:Clap: :Clap::Clap:Way to go Kita, good for you. You are a good role model for us, umm older writers. Ally are you welching on a deal?


Mac, you for got to count all the words, and time you spent, helping me on my wip. That counts for something doesn't it. They were words after all. And you did write 'em. And they were for a wip, just not yours.

Nita

[Birol]

No, Nita, she doesn't get to count those words. Because, I'll tell you a little secret about our Macallister, not that it's much of a secret. She really does like editing and helping people, but she also uses it very effectively as a procrastination tool.

[Kida Adelyne]

(Nita... Shhhh! I said you didn't see me! (Just taking a break, I have so few words left to write. Done in a hour, truely) You didn't see me this time either.)

[Birol]

Yippie, Kita!!!!


:Clap: :snoopy: :banana::snoopy::banana: :snoopy: :Clap:


:PartySmil

[Kida Adelyne]

You can see me now!:hi:

I'm done! Mwuhaha! Donedonedone! Mr. Bubble is happy! (Mr. B. is my muse, who is thoughally sick of Lost ID)
See Kit, told ya I would finish! 17914 words. about 5k or which were written this weekend. that's about 3k today, I'll have you know. Donedonedone.
*Runs around in circles*

Now if you excuse me, if I'm not mistaken, I've had a total of two Rice Cakes to eat today.:eek:

*Runs away like a loon*

[ritinrider]

Yeah Ally!! Don't you get ice cream or something now?

Birol, Mac really did help a lot. I think helping others is a good procras... stalling tool.

Ok, thanks to Mac and Fern I have written 1600 plus words on E this week. I did some research, besides what I asked Mac and Fern. Researched so markets to query this week and umm, I think that's it.

While 1600 looks good, and I am happy about it, it's still only about 1/4 what my goal was. As oppossed to Kita (I think) who wrote 4X her goal. Now, if I can just get on that train, I'll be doing great.

Oh Barb, did ya lock bud up again? Was gonna ask him how he felt about chocolate gravy (it's kinda like pudding, but I don't think he'd want to use it the same way, it's served warm with biscuits).

Forgot to mention, wrote a piece (or part of one) based on one of Barb's prompts. Maybe I'll finish and fix it and post it this week.

Nita

[MacAllister]

Kida finished, too!!! w00t!

Ally, I read your SYW humor piece, btw--and it's VERY funny!

[katiemac]

Okay, this week didn't go quite as well as I wanted it to. I thought I had a great thing going with that 1500 words a day, but apparently it didn't pan out quite so well.

Total: 3,018

Somewhere in the middle of the week, my parents made me give up my laptop to my sister so she could take it to NY with her. For six days. The separation process was, er... upsetting. To keep the terms light. I printed out the manuscript for the first time on paper and starting reading the night she left. Rather than edit, though, I continued reading and pretty much realized just how much of this is going to change.

I spent the next day figuring how to fix everything, which I do believe I may have done, but I just have to write it out. I don't think I've used long-hand since elementary school. Word on the street is the NY trip isn't lasting as long as it was before, so hopefully I'll have the computer back soon.

[Birol]

Yippie, Ally!!!!



:Clap: :snoopy: :banana::snoopy::banana: :snoopy: :Clap:


:PartySmil

[Birol]

What did I do this week? The short answer is I don't have a friggin' clue.

I have been writing in TBWN -- sorry, lost track of the word count -- but I can tell you that the POV character I've been working to detangle is nearly done. I have one more scene of his to write, one scene that needs tweaking to get in line with the detangled storyline, and then he will be in position to rejoin the other three POV characters for the Grand Finale. I should have him done by Tuesday if I procrastinate and mess around, by Monday if I buckle down. Then, I can start on the next POV character who needs detangled.

[batyler65]

okay, folks,

You know that humor column that was due on Friday? It didn't happen. That means I have until around noon today to make it go. I promise I'll be checking in with everyone late this afternoon, tomorrow morning at the latest. In the meantime, no more internet for me. :( Until then, I'll be charging the taser. Play nice.

hugs,
Barb

[Unique]

Good luck with it, Barb. I know you can do it.

Everyone that acheived this week past....WOO HOO! Good on ya! You inspire me!

I guess I can wait for my next >ZAP< :(. I have 'real life' stuff to get ready for....(boo, hiss...) I just enjoy it so much....I think I'm addicted.

Oh, well.:gone:

[allenparker]

And I think this is wonderful. So much so that I would love to be a part of this.
Is it too late to join? Are there special invitations needed? Do you have to know someone, wear a special ring, know the secret password, or wear clothes?

Just a naked thought... Allen

[Birol]

Allen, word of advice, you don't want to be naked when Barb hits you with that taser. Standing in a puddle while naked is a really, really bad idea, too.

Welcome aboard.

[Natalia]

I'm late, I'm late...no time to say hello... goodbye...
That's how I feel.
:Shrug:Been hitting some roadblocks. I am trying to finish "The Ward" and I am finding it hard to get the words out.

:Hammer: Been spending to much time online doing other research. And I am trying to work on my dissertation, so I have a good excuse.

But I would like to finish the short story before my b-day on 6/17.. we shall see.

[ChunkyC]

HOORAY KITA & ALLY!!!

K & A running in circles, with some friends (us maybe?)
http://pages.prodigy.net/bestsmileys1/emoticons1/circle.gif

Okay. Wrote my column. Have only four chapters to go in the rewrite of HOME. Mac has been letting me fire a near-constant stream of e-mails at her inbox as I ruminate over and quite often incorporate her suggestions.

Damned ifn the book is akshully gettin' a hole lot better. I think I have something for the acknowledgement page:And a great big thank you to Mac for pointing out how often I left my fly open.
How's that, Mac?

[Kida Adelyne]

Awww, you can dance If you want chunky:Hug2:


And yes Nita, we did get Ice cream. Just got back acctually. ((Mmmmm... I had 'Moose tracks' :wag:))

[batyler65]

ELONNA,

You could have just claimed you were early for the next time. ;)

I hope life is starting to settle down some for you and that you are getting more writing time in. I understand how nutty things can get, though. Keep posting whenever you can.

hugs,
Barb

http://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/EmoteSun.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/EmoteSun.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/EmoteSun.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/EmoteSun.gif

[batyler65]

RAY II

*warming up the Taser*

ZZZZTTTTTtttttt!

Zzzzzzttttt! (extra for the monkeys)

Well I guess cleaning up the house after 94 monkeys could be a bit of a time waster.


But, no matter. You must commit yourself to your writing, grasshopper. (Everybody, say it with me now for our new Ray) TEN MINUTES every day. Write a note, write a sentence, move the work forward. Set a timer. Write without stopping until the time goes off. Let your writing wander if you must, but MAKE a habit. You'll be glad you did. :)

I wanna hear progress next week. Got it?
http://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/Emotewhip.gif

[batyler65]

KITA

Want to say once more, how great it is that you finished.

You ROCK!

Glad you got ice cream.

So what's next? Hmm? You have to bring a new project next weekend.

:) :) :) :)

[batyler65]

TRI:

You are kickin' some major writing butt! Go! Go! Go!
Sounds like you are closing in on THE END. I'm watching and waiting.

I can't speak for everyone else, but your progress is great motivation for me. :)

So, what will you tackle next. Has your muse begun whispering sweet nothings in your ear?

:) :) :) :)

[batyler65]

TASHA

2k is excellent progress. Okay, so it wasn't all WIP, I'll take what I can get.

Sorry to hear about the 20 hour day. Yuck.

Keep the faith!

:) :) :) :)

[batyler65]

UNIQUE

Writer=insane=many voices in head. Any questions?

From the sound of things, you are on the right track. The voices in your head are a good sign. Usually. Um, they aren't asking you to do BAD THINGS are they?

Are you closing in on your goal?

Good luck with the prompts. I'll expect a full report, of course. ;)

Keep it going!

:) :) :) :)

[batyler65]

MAC

Zzzzzzttttttt! ZZZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzTTTTTTT!!

Dagnabbit. Why isn't this thing working? Huh?

One word at a time. That's all it is, Mac. One word at a time.

[batyler65]

YIPPEE, SKIPPY, ALLY!

WAAAAAAHOOOOOO!


Nana dance for you, too!

http://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gif

I'm so PROUD of you!

Of course, you know you have to bring a new goal to WPR next week, right? bwaaahahahaaaa!

And where is that mother of yours? Tell her I'm watching for her.

:) :) :) :)

[batyler65]

NITA

1600 words is nothing to sneeze at. Maybe you set your goal a little high for this week? Shoot for 2k next week and you will still have improved. Come November, I'll probably throw out the 1k 2day challenge again (for those reading, get ready now).

The important thing is that you are happy with your achievment. Just keep it going.

I hope you are having fun with the prompts. Hope I get to see what you've done.

:) :) :) :)

[batyler65]

KATIE

First of all (((((KATIE))))) for losing the computer and being prepared to troop along longhand. Good for you!!



Total: 3,018


This is still an excellent advancement! Way to go! And the fact that losing the computer made you take a step backward and assess things? That can be good too. Just don't let the internal editor jump in and go nuts right now, okay?

Keep putting those words on the paper. (Your parents would probably frown on you putting them on the walls and stuff.)

:) :) :) :)

[batyler65]

CLUELESS LORI

Um... are you EVER going to finish that thing? Oh. Wait. That's what you were saying. Sorry.

When is the GRAND FINALE? What is your projected deadline? I want to know when it is within my right to zap you again. bwaaahahahahaaaa!

In the meantime, carry on. It sounds like you are almost there. Either that, or you just like to tease me.

Finish. The. Book.

:) :) :) :)

[batyler65]

ALLEN

You jump right in and join us. Most of us don't bite. Well, not like we mean it, anyway.

All you have to do, is set a goal. Pick one. Tell us what it is then check back with us once a week to tell us how you are doing with it. That's all. Simple, right?

Oh, and don't pay any attention to those folks who reference "Hotel California" They don't know what they are talking about.

WELCOME!!

Barb

[batyler65]

NATALIA
don't worry about being late. I'm not exactly on time this week either.

Roadblocks. ugh. Try some freewriting. Just write whatever comes to mind until something clicks. If nothing clicks, just keep writing. If you are really strapped for time with everything else going on, make a writing appointment with yourself. Set aside ten-fifteen minutes and write, even if it is meaningless drivel. The habit DOES help.

I'll be watching for that story to be done by 6/17. That's not too far off. You can do it! I know you can.

:)

[batyler65]

CHARLIE

Way to go on nearing THE END again!! Keep us posted so we can do the nana dance again. It keeps Bud occupied.

I'm excited for you!!

LOL@ acknowledgement.

go! go! go!

:) :) :) :)

[Yeshanu]

Missing:

One brain, (very) slightly used. Last seen in the vicinity of Ruth's skull on or about May 12. Grey and squishy. Some report that said brain is rather sharp, though this is only hearsay. Has little legs and feet, and is prone to wandering.

If you see this brain, please return it to Ruth. She misses it!

(Let's see. That was, um, 58 words...)

[batyler65]

(((((RUTH)))))

Glad to see you. Even without your brain.

Now about those 58 words...

What happened to your GOALS?? You remember those, right?
Come back to the fold. Do penance. All will be forgiven.

[allenparker]

ALLEN


All you have to do, is set a goal. Pick one. Tell us what it is then check back with us once a week to tell us how you are doing with it. That's all. Simple, right?

Okay, here goes. I am in the process of editing my next book. I set, as a goal, to complete 75 pages of the first pass through on this manuscript.




WELCOME!!

Barb

Thanks. I already feel at home. (Of course, at home, there is a crazy woman screaming at me to do my chores.)

Allen

[Kida Adelyne]

(Of course, at home, there is a crazy woman screaming at me to do my chores.)

Isn't it nice to know that somethings never change no matter where you go.
*Runs away before Barb can catch her*

[WordSoup]

I FINALLY GOT MY FIRST GREETING CARD SALE TONIGHT!!!!
(I just subbed it yesterday morning before work)

Smart Alex bought one of my get well cards, but they want it for a birthday card. (Cool Beans by me)

Anybody wanna dance??? I feel like dancin'!!!!!!!
:banana: :snoopy: :banana: :snoopy: :banana: :snoopy:

Love and Hugs to everybody here
- Jen, very recently published writer

(my new motto: "Good things come to those who don't take "No Thanks" for an answer.)

[katiemac]

congratulations, jen!

That's wonderful news! I'm up for a dance. :snoopy:


I'll also toss in some (to quote Barb) "girly squealy noises." Just plug your ears first. Here I go:

SQUEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!

[Birol]

CONGRATULATIONS, JEN!!!!

:TheWave: :TheWave:

:PartySmil

[Unique]

YAY! JEN!

Ready, Aim, >>>>>>>>>FLY !


:Cheer:

[batyler65]

WAHOOOOOOOOOO, JEN!


NANA DANCE

:banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana:

[WordSoup]

Thanks everyone! :thankyou: :kiss: :Hug2:


This Morning I have to write them a confirmation letter...and make it sound like I know what I'm talking about :tongue And try not to ask too many obviously newbie questions.

[allenparker]

Anybody wanna dance??? I feel like dancin'!!!!!!!
:banana: :snoopy: :banana: :snoopy: :banana: :snoopy:

Love and Hugs to everybody here
- Jen, very recently published writer



Dancing Naked on the Table as We Speak!

Congrats.... Enjoy the moment!

Allen

[ChunkyC]

Awesome, Jen!

Another nana for you! http://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gif

[ChunkyC]

O-tay! I'm reporting in a little early this week because:

I finished the rewrite on HOME!

Yeehaw! Exterminated most of a major ellipsis infestation, and actually added about 3,000 words to bring it to 84,000 by my word processor's count, closer to 95,000 if you multiply number of pages by 250. Just about a perfect length, methinks.

I'm gonna take a day off, then start in on the hard stuff: pitches and submission package.

http://bestsmileys.com/writer/1.gif

[ritinrider]

YEHAW! Two parties! Whoopee!

Congrats to Jen, now a real honest to goodness published author. Yahoo. :PartySmil

And Chuck too, soon we'll be seeing him in person (smaller, but in person) as he makes his rounds doing book signings. You will come down to the lower 48 won't you Chuck.
'Nother partaaay for Chuck. :PartySmil

And the nana dance for Jen and Chuck.:banana::banana::banana::banana::banana:

[triceretops]

Way to go Chunky ma man! Damn she's finished, eh. Now comes that pesky query and synop. You're right--those are tough.

Triceratops:hooray: :Jump: :Jump: :partyguy: :Trophy: :Thumbs: :TheWave:

[WordSoup]

Woo Hoo! Yay!! Way to go, Chunky!

Hop up on this table with Allen and I... You ya gotta take the clothes off

:Cheers:

:ROFL: Oh, my this gettin' wayyy too dirty... I think I'm gonna :faint:

[Kida Adelyne]

:banana::snoopy::banana:
GO CHUNKY!!!!!

:TheWave::TheWave:
GO JEN!!!!!
:PartySmil:PartySmil:PartySmil


(Dang it. I'm running out of smilies to throw.)

[Unique]

CC - way to be! :banana:You may have as many dancin' nanas as you like!! Whoo Hooo!!:banana:

[maestrowork]

WTG, CC, so proud of you!

[katiemac]

congratulations, chunk!

That's wonderful news. Now I feel like running off to write...

Let us know when you send it off!

[batyler65]

WOOOOHOOOOO!!!

Way to go, Charlie!

Those nanas are getting a real workout this week!

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[batyler65]

FRIDAY, JUNE 10, 2005

Hello again, folks!

It is once again the end of the week and time to report in.

Can we stand another smiley party? Can we??

My humor column took first place in column writing at the Society for Professional Journalists' awards last night! l now have a very pretty plaque to hang up on my wall. (There isn't a smilie with a big enough grin. There just isn't one.)

AND

We have a contract on THE house!! We go visit the nice loan officer at the bank today.

As far as writing goes, I'm kind of in a limbo place. There is so much going on my brain is frying out on me. I did finish my humor column on Monday, did a educational newsletter revision Tuesday, am finishing the second draft of October, and am going nuts trying to write the stories for the software project. AAAAAAARRRRRRGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHH!

Oh. Did I mention I've had about three hours of sleep?

Tell me all about your week. Tellmetellmetellme!

Gotta run!

Barb

[Birol]

My humor column took first place in column writing at the Society for Professional Journalists' awards last night! l now have a very pretty plaque to hang up on my wall. (There isn't a smilie with a big enough grin. There just isn't one.)

:hooray::snoopy: :banana::hooray::banana::snoopy: :hooray: :snoopy: :banana:

:TheWave: :TheWave:

[maestrowork]

:hooray::snoopy: :banana::hooray::banana::snoopy: :hooray: :snoopy: :banana:


:TheWave: :TheWave:


I'm going to steal Birol's smilies!!!!

Holy Crazy Woman, Batman!

[ChunkyC]

Whohoo Barberina!
You da gal!
What a tri-mendous accomplishment!
http://bestsmileys.com/bouncing/5.gif
I'm drool-eriously happy for you!
http://bestsmileys.com/bouncing/6.gif
Congrats on your big award!
http://bestsmileys.com/bouncing/10.gif << does this grin come close?

[WordSoup]

:Thumbs: AAAA-Mazing Barb! :Clap: :Clap: :Clap:

[batyler65]

http://bestsmileys.com/bouncing/10.gif << does this grin come close?

If it were as large as my monitor screen, maybe. :D

bouncebouncebouncebouncebouncebouncebouncebounce

I'm a little hyper today

[allenparker]

FRIDAY, JUNE 10, 2005

Hello again, folks!

It is once again the end of the week and time to report in.

Can we stand another smiley party? Can we??

My humor column took first place in column writing at the Society for Professional Journalists' awards last night! l now have a very pretty plaque to hang up on my wall. (There isn't a smilie with a big enough grin. There just isn't one.)

CONGRATS!!!!!!!!!!
<Throwing off clothes.... Dancing Naked on the table.> (any excuse has me dancing naked on the table.)


AND

We have a contract on THE house!! We go visit the nice loan officer at the bank today.

Well, toss out the glasses. Let's have a party!


Gotta run!

Barb

[Kida Adelyne]

:Hail:I bow to your greatness!:Hail:

YAY BARB!!!!!
:TheWave:

[Kida Adelyne]

Okie, here's my report:

I am slave to school at the moment, and havn't written all that much. I decided until after exams I'm going to take it easy (in writing) to keep from going completely crazy.

Since I don't really have any project I'm working on at the moment, I just picked up on doing an Illustrated novel I started last year. I did two pages worth of story-boarding, and thought about the plot alot. I also redrew the first couple of pages, which included tweaking some workds. It's not all writing, but I still did have to write some words on it.
My writing buddy also contacted me after a long time of not-contactingness. She's finally able to get back to writing and criting, so she sent me a chapter, and I sent her a chapter.
I also read Alice for Kit (If your reading this Kit you can stop threataning me now) and I will promptly give her my feedback on monday at school. This counts, right?

That's about it. My muse has been sent off on paid vacation until exams are off, basically. Otherwise he will bug me to no end to write when I'm supposed to be studying.

*Hugs* Ally

[Cate]

Wow Barb! I bow to your greatness!!!!! I am soooooo happy for you!

This week:
Have been really busy with photographs as I am selling some of them from a dance performance that I shot--I am really getting into this photography stuff!

On the writing front--
Got a go-ahead from one publication, an ok to send a piece from another--which--if accepted will be included in a travel book! Queried 4 places and did some writing, light filing and writer's guidelines requests.
Followed up on a few pieces to see when they will be published and revised an article on the editor's request.
Ahh.
A good week overall!

[triceretops]

Okay, I'm a bit early--a little slow this week. From 103,000 to 107,000 for a 4,000 trickle (for me). My advice is not to paint your protag into a tight corner from which the escape is strained. I knew where I was going but did not consider a plausible means to get there. I have more twists and turns in this book than a sidewinder in a bowl of noodles, so I had to come up with a believeable solution. My protag is a futuristic William Wallace (Braveheart) who must confront an evil government and demand freedom for the citizens, and propose peace for the world. Trouble is, he has to make this speach without getting terminated on the spot--he also needs a broadcast platform so the whole nation can hear the message, and this message has to go uninterupted and sway "hearts and minds" (including the President). So, he's going to bluff to get this platform.

Also considering what heroic players to kill off--not an easy choice. Gak!

Congrats to all who are inking the screen and page! Hang in there and puzzle it out. It will come.

Triceratops

[Birol]

This week in the on-going saga of TBWN, we find our stubborn and persistent authoress has finally finished detangling POV character #3's storyline. In so doing, she deleted 2226 words from his storyline and wrote 2644* new words. Having declared him completed, our stalwart writer immediately dove into the detangling of POV character #2. (Obviously she is not working on these in order.) After copying his scenes to a new file, printing them out, reviewing them, creating a rough outline of what POV character #2 needed to accomplish, and marking some of the save scenes with updates and rewrite needs, our intrepid would-be-novelist deleted an additional 121 words and wrote 521 brand-new, never before seen words. It was a breath-taking accomplishment that will leave her future reading audience in awe.


*Should the members of WPR choose to conduct an audit, they would find evidence of shady accounting practices in these numbers as some of the so-called deleted words were reused as part of the 'newly written' words.

[Unique]

Congrats Barb on the A-ward! Supreme Coolness!

Me: River of Air - written on the plane
The Honey Do Not List - humor prompt #1
Extreme Toothbrushing - humor prompt #2
Groundhog's Day - humor prompt #3
One poetry fragment:

I left town the other day
No one knew I left
It's sad to think that when I die
Not one soul will be bereft

No one noticed I was gone - - - - and that's all she wrote folks.

Please, Barb, can I have the taser now; please, please, pretty please?
(And howdy do to the rest of all ya'll - grins or pokes as required)

[katiemac]

It was a breath-taking accomplishment that will leave her future reading audience in awe.

If only I felt like Lori right about now. But congratulations! I'm sure I will be awed.

Okay, so I ended up somewhere between 3000 and 4000 words, I think. I don't have an accurate count, but if I'm lucky I went over 4000. Once I got the computer back, it took me awhile to get going again, because essentially I'm rewriting the beginning. And the beginning, well, that's like starting over... and who really wants to start over? So I procrastinated, but finally got to it. I think this beginning works a lot better with all the changes I went through from my original idea - it should fix a lot of plot holes.

Started the new job (finally!) so that took a chunk of time out of my week, but it really shouldn't be affecting my writing.

I have a new end date: Saturday, July 16th. It would be beautiful if this rewrite were done by then. (And then I can read the new Potter book as reward, otherwise it will consume my life for the next day or so afterward.)

[Birol]

I'm just trying to convince myself, KatieMac. Right now, honestly, I feel like I've gutted that character's part of the story. I'm having to forcibly ignore that feeling in order to continue on like I know I need to be doing.

[katiemac]

Gutted. Yep, that's a good adjective. For both how I feel and the story looks.

[msQTpi]

Hello Everyone,

:Hail: May I come back to play with you?

I don't exactly know what happened that made me drift away. It's not as if I have stopped writing.

Since I last posted here I have been a writing fool...well, a fool that writes anyway.

Can I play?? I promise to bring pudding.

Renee'

[allenparker]

Well, here is my first weekly report.

My goal was to edit the first seventy-five pages of my manuscript.

I actually got through all 225 pages. <good news>

What I discovered was that I needed to go back through the edit process again to clear some systemic issues that still linger. There are too many instances of "on the nose" storytelling. <bad thing>

So, for the coming week, I set as a goal, to confront the issues from the storyline and correct them before the weekend ends.

Weekend ends. Is that part where the fun stops and work begins?

Allen

[batyler65]

ALLY

Smiley faces for you, girl! You stay focused on school and get that wrapped up.

Going back to the old project is an excellent idea. It keeps your writing muscles limber and still leaves some brain power for those all important exams. BTW: When is school out?

:) :) :) :)

[batyler65]

CATE

Turning into a photographer on us? Cool! I think it is so great that you are selling your pictures.

You are still kicking butt in the writing world, too. Just a "good week"? Sheesh, I wish my "good" weeks looked like this.

:) :) :) :)

[batyler65]

TRI

4,000 words is SLOW? Okay, we are not, I repeat NOT going to calculate MY speed. Ever.

Painting protags into corners seems to be what we writers do best. I hope you have figured out the escape by now and are happily chugging toward THE END. We need more banana dances.

Good luck killing off the players. Always a tough job. May they die valiantly in a way that serves the story. ;)

:) :) :) :)

[batyler65]

LORI

Loved your commentative third-person summary. So basically you wrote (maybe) 1000 new words? ;)

I don't envy you the detangling process. I still have vivid memories of a large table covered in index cards from where I had to detangle my own. *hugs*

Still, it sounds like you are getting a handle on the project and pushing TBWN (slowly) toward THE END.


Carry on, Ye Stalwart Writer.

:) :) :) :)

[batyler65]

UNIQUE
Good morrow, my little masochist.

ZZZZZzzzzzztttt!!! (There are you happy now? You do realize that the Taser is meant as a PUNISHMENT, right?)

Excellent writing progress. Glad you are using the prompts to stir up the writing dust. Sounds like you generated quite a few words this week. How are your goals coming? Hmm?

I'll be nice. Instead of giving you those wimpy smiley faces, I'll just zap you some more. (I'll have to give you smilies when you are bad, I guess.)

ZZZZzzzzttt! ZZZZzzzztttt!

[batyler65]

KATIEMAC
Sounds like you have a plan. Plus, 3-4k a week is excellent output. (Congrats on the new job, btw.)
It sounds to me as if you have picked the perfect carrot to dangle in front of you. No new Potter book until your rewrite is completed. Just tell yourself that every time you sit down to write.

I'm glad you are happy with the new beginning. And I completely understand about the "starting over" thing. I have to begin the THIRD and final draft of Monster and I have gone so far as purchasing real estate to avoid it. ;)

I'm marking July 16th on my calendar. You can bet I'll be asking if you met your deadline. Keep on it!

:) :) :) :)

[batyler65]

RENEE'

You get yourself on in here right now, before you catch your death! Where have you been, girl? dontcha know we were worried sick?

Come, sit down. Have a cookie (no, not those. BUD baked those. Try one of these.)

Now. Tell me all about everything. Tellmetellmetellme!

Good to see you again!

Hello Everyone,

:Hail: May I come back to play with you?

I don't exactly know what happened that made me drift away. It's not as if I have stopped writing.

Since I last posted here I have been a writing fool...well, a fool that writes anyway.

Can I play?? I promise to bring pudding.

Renee'

[batyler65]

ALLEN
Way to go on getting through all 225 pages! http://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoteClap.gif

Condolences on the rewrite process. Several of us are in the same boat with you. Hang tough. Like Tri says, it will work out.

Weekend ends, work begins? Hmm, for me, I don't think the work EVER stops. Weekend? What exactly is that? Oh. Pay no attention to me. I've been informed that I have a skewed sense of time.

Keep the faith and let us know how it is going. See you next week!

:) :) :) :)

[batyler65]

OH WHERE, OH WHERE HAVE MY MISSING WRITERS GONE? OH WHERE, OH WHERE CAN THEY BE?

WE MISS YOU GUYS!

(don't make me hunt you down)

[Unique]

UNIQUE

ZZZZZzzzzzztttt!!! (There are you happy now? You do realize that the Taser is meant as a PUNISHMENT, right?)



ZZZZzzzzttt! ZZZZzzzztttt!



Yes, Taskmaster Barb, I know the taser is for punishment; I've always been 'wired' a little differently than most folks.....that's why I am - - - Unique. <shrugs> I've learned to live with it....
Oh, and thanks muchly, for the Zaps, they seem to be working rather well....

[WordSoup]

Andrews McMeel just selected one of my greeting card concepts for art development, it's not a sale yet, but...

:Clap: :banana:

[msQTpi]

Thank you Barb,

Nothing much to report really. Just the usual. Life can be just a tad boring to talk about when all you do is sleep, eat and write.

I have submitted a few stories since I last posted...one was even to Woman's Day. I am still waiting for their replies.

OH, I am finally doing something with Trish! I have started creating an ezine to promote her and her crazy fellow trailer dwellers. Actually that was what brought me back here. I was googling "trailer park queen" (in hopes of finding pictures that I could modify and use for the home page of the ezine site). Guess what I found listed...yup, my "Trish, the Trailer Park Queen" posts here.

I have been trying to remember what caused me to drift away from here and can think of absolutely nothing. The only thing I can say is this:

If you skip one week, it gets easier to forget to post the next. Don't let that happen. This group is just too wonderful to loose track with.

Renee'

[Kida Adelyne]

BTW: When is school out?


It is 'out' persay, on the 20th. However, my last exam is on the 23rd.

[Natalia]

Sorry late again.

There is a learnng curve at the new teaching job. Hopefully once I am done with my first full month of teaching here, I will be able to devote more time to writing.

However, I still managed to post two stories for crits, edit three stories and send out 10 subs.

Phew...

xoxoxox

[batyler65]

DANCING JEN

Any time is a good time for a nana dance!

WOOHOO!!!

http://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gif

Keep subbing!

[batyler65]

Oh, and thanks muchly, for the Zaps, they seem to be working rather well....

No problem.

Have an extra to keep you motivated this week. ZZZZzzzztt!

[batyler65]

NATALIA

it's okay to be late. As long as you are still keeping us posted, I won't complain too much. ;)

Sounds like your schedule is full yet you are still writing! EXCELLENT! Your writing accomplishments are nothing to sneeze at either.

Hang tough.

:) :) :) :)

[batyler65]

ALLY
Less than two weeks to go. Hang in there!

*hugs*

[Yeshanu]

OH WHERE, OH WHERE HAVE MY MISSING WRITERS GONE? OH WHERE, OH WHERE CAN THEY BE?

I'm here, and I even think I found my brain last week. It was under a pile of dusty photographs in a little tiny room in a church basement. It was a bit melted when I found it, and all the dust and grime of centuries had congealed and dulled the points a bit, so it'll take me a while to get it back into full working condition.

However, I did manage to do a bit of writing this week. I enlarged my mega-history project on my 164-year-old church to include the 120-year-old and 44-year-old sister churches, effectively doubling the amount of time covered. Ugh! I presented it on Sunday instead of doing a traditional worship service. Folks liked the photos, but only one said anything about it being nice to actually know the history of the three churches, who are amalgamating into one happy family on July 1.

Anyhow, my other big writing project this week was a volunteer thingy. I outlined a procedure for the board of directors of my housing co-op to follow when complaints from members are received.

Don't ask me why a fantasy writer got roped into writing history and board policy...

Then again, perhaps there is a connection...

[Kida Adelyne]

ooops, almost forgot:

Kit asked me to come in and say she's sorry she didn't report. V. busy. I believe she did write her 1000 words though. She'll be back for the weekend (or better be:poke:)


-Ally

[ChunkyC]

I can't remember when I posted last.

So ... did my column, as usual. It was my 200th review since getting the gig. Still can't believe it.

Um ... I felt compelled to restructure HOME by breaking it into five 'parts.' Then I did an epigraphectomy: sliced 'em out of the beginnings of all 38 chapters and threw 'em in a blender to turn them into six redesigned epigraphs to lead off each part plus the epilogue.

Mac made me do it. Just kidding, but it was her idea. Besides, she said one of the epigraphs sounded like a fortune cookie (it did once I stood back and looked at it in the light of day). Since I'm not writing a Chinese cookbook, that wasn't good.

[Kitahoshi]

The woman in the frog slippers speaks the truth as she plays her cello! I have been busy. Up all last week into the early hours doing stupid school stuff. I did write on an old project however. It's called How to befriend the undead. It's a cute vampire story where one vampire has to make friends with a human and resist drinking the girl's blood to contact the mortal she claims to love. Also wrote some on my Harry Potter fanfic PLBW. So my 1 000 words were split into two places last week. ^^()

[maestrowork]

Sorry I didn't report...

- movie column. OK. I think this is like my 75th review or something. Time flies.

- CTN. I don't count words anymore. I finished a couple key scenes. Am writing two conflicts simultaneously (meaning I'm cross cutting between them) involving my two protagonists. Starting on an ambush scene that has me sweating, and not in a good way. But I'm moving along. Might have to jump ahead again.

- Finishing up with a short story so I can start submitting it.

- No words on TPB. I guess it's in production queue. Release date is now November. Remember to buy a few for the holidays.

[MacAllister]

Besides, she said one of the epigraphs sounded like a fortune cookie oh my gosh...did I say that? (I guess I must have...) Perhaps I should be sent in for sensitivity training....or else I should eat less Chinese take-out.

(((((((((((((CC))))))))))))) IMHO, you're doing the right thing...

oh, and I fully expect to reach "the end" later tonight. Working on the final scene now. Then it gets to sit for a couple of weeks while I forget about it and then I must do an enormous overhaul before shipping the monstrosity off to my poor crit group...

[Birol]

The End? Really? WOOHOO!!!! :snoopy:

[triceretops]

Oh, good deal Mac! My end is in sight too. Whups, I meant to say I'm nearing my own end--wait. Ima juss aboot fini. Wrote 6,000 just today--it was a long drawn-out Independence Day (hero) speech, with a truckload of author intrusion.

Mac, what kind of book is dang near finished"

Tri

[MacAllister]

It's a weird book, Jeff....It's a really, really weird book. *sigh*

Sort of All the Pretty Horses meets Bullfinches Mythology

[allenparker]

I am having to check in early this week. I will be away for the weekend.

I am running a little behind this week, however. I am suffering with LBSTC, a disease that affects many in my situation. (lazy butt stuck to couch)

I completed walking from couch to the Palatial futon. I might have opened my laptop. I am certain that I thought hard about actually typing a few pages. I printed out the manuscript in black ink. I verified that the ink was black.

I actually blue-lined and red lined a couple dozen pages. Still, I was able to map the entire surface area of the back of my eyelids.

Better report next week.

Allen

[maestrowork]

Mac, I want to hear you say THE END. Dammit!

[ChunkyC]

Mac, you can say whatever you want about my writing. You were bang on about the fortune cookie. It made me immediately sit up and take notice. I had obviously slapped that one in there during the previous or first draft without giving it much thought. Not a good way to write.

By the way, dear friend. You mentioned those two words we writers live for: THE END. Now that I've shown you mine, will you show me yours?

I'll start scouring Mrs. Chunky's cookbooks for suitable metaphors. http://pages.prodigy.net/rogerlori1/emoticons/pi_bigsmile.gif

[batyler65]

Friday, June 17, 2005

Welcome back, Weekenders!

Time to stand up and be counted. This week I have little to report. It has been a vacation week at the homestead. I did write two more nonfic pieces for the software project, but that's it. I'm still lost in the land of real estate. We got approval from the bank yesterday, so it looks like (pending appraisal) we are buying THE house! Most of this week has been spent boxing up things and getting ready for an extreme yard sale to be held tomorrow. I will be glad when Monday gets here. I need rest.

How are things in your world? Drop in and let us know.

Happy Writing!
Barb

[maestrowork]

I need to take a break from CTN (I did write about 300 words since Tuesday). So, beside the column, I have done little. Updated my website (click "Author" in my sig), wrote some poetry, edited a short story... Anything to keep me from thinking about CTN.

[ChunkyC]

Anything to keep me from thinking about CTN
Ray, put the feather duster down and back away from the vacuum cleaner. Slowly now ... that's it-- oh, crap, there he goes. Oprah must be on.

[Kitahoshi]

Oh look, here I am! ^_^ And on time, too. This week I wrote... uh... *goes back to count* ... approximately 2 000 and something hundred words. A bit more on PLBW and a lot for HBU (How to Befriend the Undead- man, I am so changing that title. o_O)

So in summary I have done double my weekly goal and exams are next week. :Ssh::faint::gone:

-That summarizes my feelings towards it. ^^() Also I was made fun of for writing fanfiction the other day. Apparently it makes me a geek. :cool:

[Kida Adelyne]

Hullo,

My muse came back from his vacation early. He is very, very annoying. I'm trying to study for math and he's there in the background going "Hey! I got a great new idea! Just give me a pen and paper and a couple of minutes..."
I've come up with a plan for the summer, by-the way. These are my summer goals, to be accomplished before I start my (hopefully) final year of highschool.

Goal #1- Rewrite Lost ID. Bring it up to 20k in the process. I got some very helpfull comments on chapter 1 from my buddy, so Mr. Bubbles is throwing a fit because I won't let him rewrite right now.

Goal #2- Continue working on Illustrated Novel. Give it a name, and figure out where the plot is going.

Goal #3- Start and Finish a new project. This project is probably going to be Chiamani's Story (Will find better working title) It's a prequal sort of thing to Spirit Door.

I think these things will keep Mr. Bubbles out of trouble for two months. I hope.

Buenos Noches!

-Ally

[MacAllister]

done.





All except for the mondo enormous subplot which i must now write and splice neatly in, for the book to make any narrative sense.

On the other hand--how important can narrative sense really be, d'ya think?

[maestrowork]

THE END?

Nicely done, Mac. [even though it's months overdue... heh!]

[triceretops]

Way to go Mac. Talk about timing--I'm two pages away from the end of mine. Been on a marathon.

Tri:Jump: :hooray: :partyguy: :Trophy:

[triceretops]

THE END. 10,500 for the week which brings it to 117,500, but my MS Word is either on the fritz or lieing to me, cause using the ole' page count standard, I make it out to be about 95 grand at 391 pages. Elapsed time was about four months. Word Wars has got more twists and turns in it than a garter snake mating ball in a bowl of noodles. But I'm very, very happy with it. Now I've got to let it simmer while I impatiently stew.

I swear, if they throw another earthquake on me I'm moving back to Vegas. That's four California quakes and two right on top of me. I damn near thought I was going to lose my computer line with all this roll and snap. It was bad enough that I was in the Northridge and Bay area disasters, now it seems like they're following me!

Adios

Tri

[TashaGoddard]

Congratulations Mac!:Cheer:
Congratulations Tri! :TheWave:

I think I missed reporting in last week. Probably because I didn't have anything to report. I did do lots of writing, but it was all for uni assignments (for my Open University post-grad diploma, which has started up again recently after I took some time out). About 5000 words, but I really don't think I can count it. *sob*

However, this Monday I had to go up to London for a meeting. I decided to try writing on the train. I got two scenes written. They're hand-scrawled, so I don't know how many words, but I'm guessing maybe around 2000. They are WIP, but I'm actually starting again from scratch on the WIP, so I guess the word count needs to start again. The WIP now has a working acronym: DOG. Hee! I find this very amusing; probably no-one else would.

It seems that I am almost consistently writing on one day a week.This is usually Friday, for some reason, but not always. Actually, I can see why it would be Friday; it's because I think 'Oh no, I have to report in! I'd better write something, so I don't get tazed!'. Which is good, as I imagine there's a chance that I wouldn't manage anything at all if it weren't for this place! Ideally, I want to be writing a scene a day, but work is horrendously busy at the moment and I also have the studying to do, too, now.

So, I'm going to see if I can fit in a scene a day next week and, if I don't, Barb, please get out the tazer (even if the word count itself is good).

[Birol]

done.


YIPPEE!!!!!

:hooray: :TheWave: :TheWave: :hooray:
:PartySmil


Gimmegimmegimmegimmegimmegimmegimmegimmegimmegimme gimmegimmegimme

[MacAllister]

You have to wait for the enormous subplot, Lori. Heh. Or else I'll have to call you and sit on the phone while you read, and everytime you hit one of the placemarkers, I'll just sort of describe what's supposed to happen there....

*eyeroll*

How's TBWN coming, btw?!

[Kida Adelyne]

:banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::b anana::banana:


GO MAC AND TRI!!!

[Birol]

You have to wait for the enormous subplot, Lori. Heh. Or else I'll have to call you and sit on the phone while you read, and everytime you hit one of the placemarkers, I'll just sort of describe what's supposed to happen there....

I can think of worse things. ;)


How's TBWN coming, btw?!

Moving right along. Going to see what I can get done with POV #2 this afternoon. If I fail to accomplish as much as I think I should, I'll have to dark early next week again. It's an effective strategy, but last time it gave me nightmares. :)

[ChunkyC]

Way to go, Mac and Tri! :Clap:

[msQTpi]

Barb,

I have been working on the "Trailer_Park_Gazette" (my ezine) all week and wrote a total of 2,162 words in future essays for it. I have also been working with 3 writers who will have pieces published in my first edition.

Critiqued 5 stories for others and have been wading through about 10 crits that I received on a story I hope to submit to a magazine this month. I have been researching Markets for the story.

Still waiting for a reply from Woman's Day and SPLITMYSIDE.COM for stories I have submitted to them.

Renee'

[maestrowork]

Renee', I can't wait to see Trish again.

[msQTpi]

Ray,

The whole idea of my ezine is to get Trish out in front of the public and draw a following that I can show to a publisher/editor/agent in the future.

If you'd like to subscribe PLEASE do. (and feel free to pass it on to everyone you know) You just need to go to:

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TRAILER_PARK_GAZETTE/ and sign up.

I hope to publish the first edition around the end of July. It will be a free weekly ezine.

An "Ask Trish" question and answer will be in every edition, along with "Trish Stories" and guest writers essays, games and contests...

While I am talking about it I'd like to ask permission to use the "questions" that were posted here. You posted a few. May I please use them?

Renee'

[ChunkyC]

Cain't speak for Ray, even tho' he is my twin brother, but you can certainly use the ones I posted, Renee.

PS -- I send a subscribe e-mail. Was I the first? <this question is usually answered by Trailer Park Queen with a NO -- once she stops laughin'.

[msQTpi]

Chunky,

Thanks! I really wanted to use one of your questions for the first edition, so that works out GREAT!

Lori was the first subscriber; you made second. You can claim first male subscriber, if you want :Thumbs:
Renee'

[Natalia]

Mac & Tri... if I were a chamaleon, I'd be green right now... but I am not, so I am just very very very happy for you :)

I wrote a short article and put it up for crits.
I did about 5 subs.
I edited "The Ward" and hope to have it finished sometime next week.
I have not touched my MS but I think I am ready to get back to it next week as well.
I have been teaching 8 hours a day and I am a bit knackered...

I know...excuses... but I am :(

Here's hoping...

[maestrowork]

While I am talking about it I'd like to ask permission to use the "questions" that were posted here. You posted a few. May I please use them?

Renee'

Sure. You can use them!

(you may want to ask the other contributors how they want to be credited, if they prefer...)

[Birol]

Chunky,

Lori was the first subscriber; you made second. You can claim first male subscriber, if you want :Thumbs:



:wag: CC, neener, neener, neener. :kiss:

Never been the first subscriber before. I feel special.

[Unique]

or....what the heck is that awful smell?
Just kidding.
After a marathon drive from MI to NC, I am the proud possessor of a pair of hands that look like swollen boxing gloves.
Didn't get too much written last week - but I did perk a few ideas.
I'm not sure how much I'll get done this week with these awful hands....type, type, shake, shake, trying to get the tingly numbness out; lather, rinse, repeat...using a pen is totally out of the question - I couldn't hold one if I tried.

Now isn't that the sh**?? I finally have things to 'say' and here I am limited in my ability to say them. Pbbbbbt (:p) I'll have to find my mini recorder and see if I can 'talk' myself some writing.

Barb, taser me, smiley me, beat me with old axe handles....I don't think I could tell the difference right this minute....but if I'm not dead - I'm not giving up!!!

I've missed all ya'll...it's good to be back home...

P.S. If I am dead, and I just don't know it yet, about six scoops of dirt and a 50# bag of lime oughta do it...:horse:

[katiemac]

Better. 7,000. Had I not skipped out on three days of writing, that count could be higher, so I'll just have to remember that for this week.

Good news is the beginning's whipped into shape again. Character motives work better this time around than before. But I still have to carry it throughout the rest of the work, but this is more like editing than re-writing the entire thing. Happy thoughts.

I'm reading again, too. Which is positively the best thing in the world. I need to hit the bookstore tonight, as I've just finished one.

[msQTpi]

(you may want to ask the other contributors how they want to be credited, if they prefer...)

Yikes! I didn't even think about that...:eek:

I'd be happy to give credit for the questions if anyone would like. Just let me know.

Chunky, would you like to be listed as a contributing writer?

Renee'

[ritinrider]

Okay, I'm back. Missed last week, don't even remember what I did to report for last week, probably nothing so we'll just leave last weekend alone and in the past.

This week I worked, and helped serve lunch to 300 bike riders on my lunch hour. I'd hoped to talk to a few and get some info for an article or two, guess I'll just have to try to contact some of them on their website. They were an interesting group of people riding bikes of all sorts from Paris Texas to someplace in Kansas, just across the OK/Kan line.

Oh yeah, I did write, a little. Wrote an article to be used as sample if need be, or possibly send it on spec. First it has to be polished. I did some more research on E, but added no words to her.

This week I should be home, most days. Only have a couple of projects to complete, and of course begin canning stuff from the garden. Still, I should manage to add 1 - 2000 words to E. Hope so.

Barb, how did the yard sale go? Make lots a money? More important - did you get rid of lots, and lots, and lots of stuff?

Mac and Tri, congratulations. Uh, Mac, can you call it 'the end' , when you still have to add portions? That's neat.

msQtpi, welcome back.

To everyone else, (how does Barb keep track of all of us?)good luck with next week and congratulations on last week's progress.

Nita

[Cate]

Busy busy! I have barely had time to be on AW.:mad:
I got a photography gig, a new semi-permanant writing job for a quarterly mag, an assignment for a local mag and a new job reviewing CDs.
Whew.
I'm tired!

[batyler65]

Just popping in (almost typed "pooping in") to say I haven't forgotten you folks. A Monday deadline is currently giving me a sound thrashing. I'll be checking in later. Know what that means? That's right! If you haven't already made your confession there is STILL time! Act now!

I did want to say:

WOW!!

A lot of folks kicked out the stops last week. Keep it coming!

Back soon,
Barb

[WordSoup]

A bit belated WTG!!! for Mac and Tri :Clap:

Confession, Barb? - I slept most of the day yesterday. Contemplating ideas...yeah...that's it.

[batyler65]

ALLEN

ZZZZZzzzzztt!!

Zaps for you. LBSTC does not get the writing done.

Editing? Okay, will let you slide on the editing, thing. But I really suggest that if you want to get past LBSTC, you must make yourself. Seriously. Every day. Make yourself churn out words for at least ten minutes. If the writing takes off, go with it. But MAKE those ten minutes. Do this for three weeks straight. Every day, no exceptions. That's how long it takes a new habit to take root.

I'll be watching to see how you do. ;)

Barb

[batyler65]

RAYMUNDO

300 words? ok. So it is better than Zero. I won't zap you for that. I WILL zap you if you give up. As a matter of fact, am considering the best way to rig the jumper cables on the SUV to give you the maximum charge without frying the vehicle's computer.

Get the shorter work polished up and submitted and I will forgive you your trespasses. ;)


Keep the faith, pal. It will come.

:)

[batyler65]

KIT:

Excellent! I have to hand it to you, you are doing a great job of bypassing your goals. Maybe it is time to up them?

Two other things:
First: I LIKE "How to Befriend the Undead" as a title. ;)

Second: Writing fan fiction does NOT make you a geek. It makes you a writer. That said, I'd be lying if I said there weren't limits to how far the fanfic can take you. Does that mean you shouldn't write it? No. Does it mean there is something wrong with you if you DO write it? NO. Right now, if that is where your comfort zone is, stick with it. ALL writing is GOOD writing. It's all practice. Every little bit helps you hone your skills and move to the next level. You'll know when you are ready to stretch in other directions. Just don't hold back when you get there, okay?

Good luck with exams!

:) :) :) :)

[batyler65]

ALLY:

Muses can be pesky creatures. They only work when they want and they eat all the cookies when you aren't looking.

These sound like excellent goals! I look forward to hearing your progress.

Good luck!
Barb

:)

[batyler65]

MAC

done.


http://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gif:banana::banana::banana::banana: :banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana::b anana::banana::banana::banana::banana::banana:

Woo-Hoo! NANA Dance!!!!!!

Look how far you have come! (And it's about TIME!) ;)

Good luck with the subplot. I'm sure it will go quickly.

[batyler65]

Oh, looky. The bananas have freaked out. ^

Too much partying, you think?

[MacAllister]

As a matter of fact, am considering the best way to rig the jumper cables on the SUV to give you the maximum charge without frying the vehicle's computer.
I can help with that.

[batyler65]

TRI:

THE END. 10,500 for the week

WOW!

http://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gifhttp://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonbanana.gif

NANA Dance!

I can't begin to tell you how impressed I am. 10k+ in one week? I think my best is 7k. Congrats on reaching THE END. There is no feeling like it in the world.

Now the fun part: Rewrite. ;)

Take a breather and gain some distance. THEN go back to it.

Cheering you on,
Barb

[batyler65]

TASHA:

The WIP now has a working acronym: DOG. Hee! I find this very amusing; probably no-one else would.


I personally LOVE it. :)

Should probably zap you for last week, but life gets the best of all of us sometimes. And you DID write 2k this week.

That "scheduling time to write" thing? I was serious about it. I say it over and over again because it DOES work if you apply it. And remember, it doesn't matter how many words you write during that time. It is the SHOWING UP that counts. I know life is hectic. It will always be hectic. There will always be the NEXT time-consuming obstacle. The question is, are you going to let it stop you?

Hang in.

:) :) :) :)

[batyler65]

LORI:


Moving right along. Going to see what I can get done with POV #2 this afternoon. If I fail to accomplish as much as I think I should, I'll have to dark early next week again. It's an effective strategy, but last time it gave me nightmares. :)

Is it done, yet? How about now? Now? Huh?

I seem to recall getting more than one or two pokes from you when I slowed down. Paybacks are a ... um, well you know what I mean. :)

Keep it moving!

:)

[batyler65]

RENEE'
Glad to have you back and churning out the progress!

I think the e-zine is a great marketing strategy. Best of luck to you with that and keep us posted.

Let us know when you send out that story. We'll all cross our fingers for you. ;)

:) :) :) :)

[batyler65]

NATALIA

I've always wondered about the word "knackered". It's one of those you can't help but wonder about the origins of.

You may be making excuses, but I'm still seeing a TON of progress going in here. 5 submissions? Keep it up! I've got my fingers crossed that "The Ward" gets itself into the mail by next weekend. :)


:) :) :) :)

[batyler65]

UNIQUE

Hmm. Now the debate. Should I zap you? Probably not. You seem to think that is a perk.

I hate to say it but I'm going to have to give you frowny faces this week.

:( :( :( :( :(

Make time for your writing week and if you show progress, I promise I will zap you again next week.

(man, this is getting twisted.)

[batyler65]

KATIEMAC

Better. 7,000. Had I not skipped out on three days of writing, that count could be higher, so I'll just have to remember that for this week.



Whoa, girl! Pace yourself! ;)

You skipped THREE DAYS and still did 7k? Take note, folks, this is what dedication looks like. You are keeping pace with TRI and just reading his reports makes me tired.

http://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoteClap.gif :Clap: :Clap: :Clap: :Clap: :Clap: :Clap: :Clap: :Clap:

I'm glad everything is starting to fall into place. It's a great feeling, isn't it?

I can't wait to see what you do for next week.

:):):):):)

[batyler65]

I can help with that.

Hear that, Ray? I have backup.

bwaaahahahahahaaaaaaa!

[batyler65]

NITA

The yard sale went. WE made a bit of money and got rid of about half of what we started with. Am going to donate the rest.


A little writing is better than no writing at all. Sample articles are great to have on hand. It always helps to be able to show you can write.

Get that 2k written this week. I know you can do it.

And as for keeping track of everyone... hmm, Liam once refered to me as a herder of cats. Does that explain it?

:) :) :)

[batyler65]

CATE

You are another one who deserves a WOW from me this week. You have come such a long way from where you were when you started posting here! Congrats on the new work!

Don't forget to stop and take a breather every now and then. You have to recharge sometime. ;)

:) :) :) :)

[batyler65]

SLEEPY JEN

ZZZZzzzztt!! *checks to see if the voltage woke Jen up*


Um... I don't think contemplating while SLEEPING counts, Jen.
PLEASE tell me that you are still scribbling in your notebook? Please? I know life keeps you busy, but still... if you want it, you have to go for it.

[batyler65]

Announcement!!

This is something I had hoped to avoid but reality is telling me otherwise. :(

I'm going to have to scale back on my activities here at AW for a little bit. Right now I have more demands on my time than I have time to go around and something has got to give. It is time for me to take a little of my own advice. I need to make more time for my writing amidst a schedule that is already eating me alive. This means I'm going to have to back off on some of the other things I love to make room for the writing.

What does this mean for WPR and this great group? It means that I'm going to have to stop leading the charge here for a little while. I have a house to sell, a move to make, and two house payments to make in the meantime. A girl has gotta eat, you know. :)

It doesn't mean that I won't still be moderating, or that I won't check in on WPR once a week. I just need to fall back to "participant" and let someone else take the wheel for several weeks (maybe as long as three months).

So, here is what it comes down to. I'm calling for a
VOTE.

Option 1: I can set up a rotation of volunteers to lead the charge (assuming folks would volunteer) and those volunteers would each take a single week (and wield the coveted Taser). I won't lie. I love coming here every single week and cheering you on, but this is work. If you want an idea of how much time it takes, look at the posting times from the first response I made this week to the last response.

Option 2: We can let WPR run under its own steam and just let everyone report in. If you think the self-policing option would work (and you would still show up and report) we can try it this way. I won't pretend to think that you guys show up just because of li'l old me. ;) The drawback to this option is that as you and I both know, feedback is precious. I think you guys will continue to support each other and hold each other accountable. At least I hope so. It's why we gather here, isn't it?

Please offer some input here, gang. This is your place, too. And be HONEST. I will go with the majority here.

Please offer your votes ASAP so I will know what to do about the coming weekend.

Thanks, Gang. You are the best.

Barb

[katiemac]

Barb, take all the time you need! We understand. But when it comes down to your options, I'll have to settle with #1. If we can't have Barb, then we'll need a surrogate. I don't think I'd continue to post here if I didn't have your solid feedback every week.

It has absolutely NOTHING to do with the fact I'd like to handle the taser.
(Bwahahahahaahahahahahahaha!)
*evil grin*

[maestrowork]

Hear that, Ray? I have backup.

bwaaahahahahahaaaaaaa!

What do you call boxes of cashews?

Nut cases.

[triceretops]

Barb, you deserve a well-eared break. Whether a stand-in takes over, or we police ourselves is the question. We might have to call for a volunteer to wield the mighty taser, and it doesn't much matter to me. I'm still sticking around for input and progress reports. Let's first see if we have a volunteer, wot?

Tri

[batyler65]

Let's first see if we have a volunteer, wot?

Tri

Actually, Tri, if we go with "option 1" I'm looking for MULTIPLE vict-- er... volunteers. Thought it would help if we shared the wealth. Plus, Katiemac is eyeing the Taser waaaay too hungrily in my opinion. ;)

So, come down off that fence. Which way do you vote? #1 or #2?

[Kida Adelyne]

Awwww Barb, if we can take a break once in a while you've earned the next ten years off.:Hug2:
I like option #1. I need motivation. And if nobody has caulms of a minor handeling a erm... electric motivational device, I'd be happy to step in for a week. :P

-Ally


ps. I'll poke the mother creature in here.:poke:

[batyler65]

Definitely poke the mother creature, Ally. she has been slacking off.

[Natalia]

:kiss: aww Barb :) We can take turns... I am up for it... option one takes my vote :)

[Cate]

I like option one also, but I won't be able to contribute right now--I am pretty buried myself . . . if you guys need someone down the line when I have more time I might be able to squeeze a week in . . .

[katiemac]

Plus, Katiemac is eyeing the Taser waaaay too hungrily in my opinion. ;)

Pssh. It's more of a thirst, really.


For BLOOD.

[triceretops]

Option one sounds fine to me. Kida can have first shift--no objections.

Tri

[Birol]

I wouldn't mind trying Option Two to see how it works, but if Option One carries the popular opinion, which it looks like it will, sign me up for a week or two with the taser, Barb.

[Kitahoshi]

KIT:

Excellent! I have to hand it to you, you are doing a great job of bypassing your goals. Maybe it is time to up them?

Two other things:
First: I LIKE "How to Befriend the Undead" as a title. ;)

Second: Writing fan fiction does NOT make you a geek. It makes you a writer. That said, I'd be lying if I said there weren't limits to how far the fanfic can take you. Does that mean you shouldn't write it? No. Does it mean there is something wrong with you if you DO write it? NO. Right now, if that is where your comfort zone is, stick with it. ALL writing is GOOD writing. It's all practice. Every little bit helps you hone your skills and move to the next level. You'll know when you are ready to stretch in other directions. Just don't hold back when you get there, okay?

Good luck with exams!

:) :) :) :)

Yay! You don't think it's cheesy. ^_^ As far as my word count, it's definitely got to go up during the summer. It's hard to fit 1 000 words in during a school week but during the summer it's far too easy for my (as of late) over working muses. So this week's goal is 1500 words. Only because of exams. Here on out I'll be expecting from 2 000 to 4 000 words out of my muses each week. Speaking of which, I'm going to go write some more on HBU while my creepy music is playing in the dead of night and I might get my word count done for the week.

:Coffee::Trophy:

[Kitahoshi]

Nooooooooooooo! *clings to Barb's leg* I need youuuuuuuuuuuuu! My muses are utterly under your authority. They like you. They tell me they'll go on strike if you leave.
:flag:

I think option one would be best, personally. My muses say if they can't have Barb there must be someone willing to threaten them on a weekly basis. (By the way, Ally/Kida does a great job of that...). If we go with option two, you know we're going to slack. Horribly. I'm too new to handle the powers of the almighty taser though so unless no one shows up I'll be tazering Ally to do it.

:popcorn:

[msQTpi]

Barb,

I vote for option #1

Renee'

[Birol]

Don't worry, Kit, Barb's taken vacations or time away from the boards before. Somehow, we always manage to muddle through. (Though we have a much greater appreciation of her when she does return.) It's a growth experience. Yeah. That's it. Life without Barb is a growth experience. ;)

[MacAllister]

I'll vote for option one, as well. And I'm willing to take MY shift with the taser. Really. I don't mind at all.

In fact, I had a cool idea to run the power through a superconductor coil. It might be a tad unwieldy, but I think the resulting juice boost could be worth it. One could taze from a considerable distance, in fact, if it works out right...

[WordSoup]

I vote option #1, but I can't volunteer. Life and my-so-called "schedule" are too unpredictable.

[Unique]

Barb,

Of course you deserve a break! Oh, Mighty Mistress of the Unifying Taser...I'd love to help out with a place in the rotation. (But knowing how much I LOVE the taser, do you think the others would trust me with it?) Of course there is also the matter of not knowing exactly what it is I am supposed to do...but other than that, I'm cool with it.

And how DO you keep track of all of us vic- I mean, members of the WPR?

(Has Liam let you borrow that 'phone' yet?) heh, heh.....

[ChunkyC]

Barb -- will all the girls covering for you be wearing the little red lacy outfit too? Then I vote for option 1. However, if Tri volunteers, I might have to make myself scarce that week. As for me, I haven't the time to volunteer, what with prepping for Westercon, the day job, etc.

Chunky, would you like to be listed as a contributing writer?
Would I like to have my name on your e-zine? Something that could actually be considered a published writing credit? Lemme see now, *thinks for one billionth of a nano-second*

HELL YEAH! <apologies for the expletive, but ... you know.

Just e-mail me when you need any details Renee, such as an 8x10 glossy photo of me in a silk smoking jacket, meerschaum pipe clenched between my teeth as I hunch over an ancient Underwood atop my pool-table sized hand-crafted teak desk.

I can dream, can't I? http://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif

[Kitahoshi]

Barb -- will all the girls covering for you be wearing the little red lacy outfit too? Then I vote for option 1. However, if Tri volunteers, I might have to make myself scarce that week.

Hmmmmm.... I'll go take Kida's measurements. What's funny about this situation is that since I'm too new to volunteer so it doesn't apply. And thus I think it would be fun. :popcorn:

[katiemac]

Barb -- will all the girls covering for you be wearing the little red lacy outfit too?

Chunk, your beard is finally growing back normally. I'd hate to think what could happen to it.

[ChunkyC]

Chunk, your beard is finally growing back normally. I'd hate to think what could happen to it.
Now Katie -- put down the flamethrower. Tell you what, if I model the outfit for you, will that put your mind at ease as to my intentions?





Okay then....





Ready?






http://bestsmileys.com/christmas4/12.gif

[ritinrider]

Barb needs a break so she can write? Gosh, since she's a 'writer' guess we'll have to muddle through without her. Ummm, since I first came to this joint during one of her short stints away, I know Lori and Mac can do a good job. Of course waaaaaaaay back then Barb only let 'em have her whip. I'm not too sure we want Mac to get her grimy little hands on the tazer. Remember what happend last time, the tazer went berserk and ya'll ended up in some weird game-like place?

I'm awilling to take a stab at the tazer thing if need be. Not sure how effective I'd be, but I'm willing to try. NO, Chuck, I won't be wearing any red (or any other color) lacy thing. Forget it buddy boy. Although the picture of you was mighty cute.

Nita

[Birol]

[Oh, yes, I'd forgotten. We go on recruiting drives when Barb's away. It encourages her to minimize her vacations. :D]

[triceretops]

Not to worry fabulous Chuck. Triceratops shall be wielding nothing except some lace underware panties from his eyehorns and a bra on his nose spike, wandering around brooding and wondering what to do next. Everytime I go back into my script I laugh and tear at my own words...hence, I know that I haven't cooled sufficiently to the script to give it that unbiased edit. Off on another story for now, but, alas, not at flank speed.

Tri

[katiemac]

Oh, Chunk. I appreciate the, er - sentiment? Yeah, that's a good one. Your intentions are honorable. Although, I might suggest you take that garment off ASAP lest Bud mistake you ... it could get ugly.

[batyler65]

Only if there's pudding, Katie. Only if there's pudding.

[ChunkyC]

I must confess. That's not actually me.

*a chorus of gasps reverberates through WPR*

It's Bud's dad, and he wants to be my Muse.

[Unique]

Well, thank goodness you've cleared that up! I was going to mention the uncanny resemblance, but I didn't want to .... offend anyone.

A new muse for you? What a novel idea....

[maestrowork]

I am not a-muse-d.

[Kida Adelyne]

*scratches out eyes*

[Kitahoshi]

*looks around blankly* Oh my. I think I just went blind. *feels around for bearing before packing herself onto Kida's back making her the monkey on the latter's back* Tee hee! I'm a blind monkey! Maybe if I sing they'll give us money...?

[batyler65]

Okay, Gang, it looks like to official vote is Option 1.

Thanks to everyone who volunteered to help out (even if it was because of an innate fascination with electrical devices).

I'll toss all the volunteers names in a hat and post a rotation by late tomorrow. If anybody hasn't volunteered who would like to, drop me a PM tonight.

XOXOXO

~b

[Kida Adelyne]

I can't go this week (or would prefer not to) Just so you know

[MacAllister]

I can take this week, Barb.

heheh. HehehahahhhhAHAAA....BWWAHHAHAHAHahahaaaaaaaa

[Birol]

Ha, Mac, she already asked me if I would take this week. :wag:


(Bribes now being accepted.)

[MacAllister]

...but

....but....

I thought I was Barb's favorite....

[Birol]

Of course you're her favorite, Mac. You're everyone's favorite. I'm sure it's just a deep, dark, diabolical plot on Barb's part.

[batyler65]

Okay, gang,

Here's the rotation as it currently stands.

Lori-- 6/24

Mac-- 7/1 (Of course you ARE my favorite. I can't let people think I'm biased. But I can tell you in parenthesis, since nobody else can see it.)

Katiemac -- 7/8

Ally -- 7/15 -- Always assuming the taser has any charge left by the time Katie finishes with it.

Unique -- 7/22 -- watch out for this week folks. I can smell burnt hair already.

Nita -- 7/29

Natalia -- 8/5

Lather, rinse, repeat.

Anyone not listed who wants a turn, let me know. (Tri?? Ray?? You know you WANT to.)

I have noticed that the male component of WPR does not appear to be represented here. Guys?

Oh, and Kit? It doesn't matter that you are new. If you want a turn, you can have one. This is an equal opportunity playground. Just let me know. ;)


Thank you, thank you, thank you.

I http://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/emoticonheart.gif WPR

~b

[Kida Adelyne]

Ally -- 7/15 -- Always assuming the taser has any charge left by the time Katie finishes with it.

If anyone reports late (ie. the tuesday) I'll have the tazer on my birthday!:hooray:

[katiemac]

Always assuming the taser has any charge left by the time Katie finishes with it.

Heh heh. Is it too soon to mention I'm contemplating substituting my flamethrower for that weekend?

Of course, in keeping with tradition to WPR, I might just have to use BOTH...

[Birol]

I think when I'm done wielding the taser I'm going to take a two week vacation.

[Birol]

I've got the taser! I've got the taser!

Now, the only question is, who to zap first? I've got to get some use out of this thing before Mac and KatieMac melt all the components together in their rewiring attempts. *Lori looks around for eager volunteers to be zapped* Has anyone seen Ray or CC? No?

Dang. I guess I should call for reports, huh?

Okay, it's Barb's first week of Life in the Real World, so let's start off by pretending to be good before we lose all control and start throwing virtual paper wads at one another and stacking the furniture in sub-artistic configurations. (Don't worry. Barb'll be back. The Real World is a scary, frightening place.)

I normally post my reports on Sunday, so will hold off giving you the full rundown of my week until then. A short, summary of what I've accomplished, though, is probably in order. In the past two days, I've written over 2K in TBWN and come to the realization that POV #2 is really a cold bastid. I like him, but man, he's willing to do some horrible things without even flinching just because they have to be done.

*Waves taser haphazardly. Catches sight of a bright pink post-it stuck to the bottom. Pulls it off to read.* NOTE FROM BARB: June 30th is the end of the second quarter. Mac or Lori should ask everyone to doublecheck their goals to see if they are accomplishing everything they wanted to do this year.

Huh. Sounds like a plan.

Okay, Weekenders, time to sound off.

[batyler65]

*chains rattling*

The Report:

Research and development for November newsletter - check!
1 craft proposal - check!
2 greeting card subs (20 cards total) - check!
2 applications for educational writing jobs - check!

Currently chained to desk writing nonfiction about clouds and bioluminescence.

4 deadlines scheduled next week not counting two more nonfiction pieces to be named later.

Daughter had minor surgery yesterday -- has recovered nicely.
Closing for the house scheduled for next Thursday.
More bank hoops to jump through between now and then. Packing and other assorted moving activities... ongoing.

*salutes and smacks self in head with wrist shackle*
Ouch.

~b

[Kida Adelyne]

I already reposted my goals, so I won't need to do that.

Muse was still loudly complaining that I felt the need to study. He waved a new idea tuntingly infront of my face, so I wrote down the general idea, then went back to procrastination from studying. I believe that is all I've done this week, though for the life of me, i could've saved the world and not remeber it. Now that I am completely done for the year, I will surrender my taser-free pass, and will proptly get down to writing.

*sallute*

-Ally

[allenparker]

Please take into consideration that reporting early is an accomplishment I had set as a goal way back during Basic Training. Glad I finally got this goal behind me.


Rattled off about 50 pages this week. Then, after contemplation edited them down to about 30.

Started a new book. Outline done. Angels Unaware.

Started a frivolous "waste of time" book about bibliophile super heroes with special super powers. There might even be a Taser waving house mother.

I actually accomplished more than my goal. I am through the second edit of NGYG. One more grammar check and spell check, then a backwards read and she is in the box.

Now, off to be a lazy useless bump on the third spinning sphere from the sun. I am relaxing all weekend with my favorite gal.

Allen

[Cate]

(Reporting early for a change!)

Ok. I have finished an assignment and turned it in w/ pictures that an editor wanted to see on spec.
Written 2 band bios and one CD review.
Got three "yes" answers on submissions I had out!
Got a notice that Traveler's Tales is going to use a blurb from what I sent them in one of their books!!
Re-vamped my website.
Had an editor contact ME for an assignment! I like the tables turning!!!
A good week . . .
(That's why it is easy to report in early.)

[Kitahoshi]

Hey everyone... ^^() Well my goal for this week was 1 500 words but... well... I had exams and stuff so... I only got about 1 200 words done. I think that's close enough... After all, I promised two thousand words next week. *tear* *hides behind Ally* Have pity on a blind singing monkey! http://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/smileyflag.gif

[Birol]

:roll:

Look everyone, Kit's mastered the art of making the taser-wiedler laugh.

[msQTpi]

This week I:

Started 2 essays for TPG (yea, I know I would have done better finishing one, but, I am not going to beat myself up for it)

Critiqued 3 stories

Completed (My part) of Edition #1 TPG

Began Edition #2

Scouted (sort of) for subscribers to TPG

Market Research for my short.

Renee'

[MacAllister]

blogged.

wrote some other stuff.

[maestrowork]

- column: ~600 words
- about 500 words on CTN, pushing a tricky scene forward
- blogged
- redid my web site
- wrote a few short pieces and posted on my site
- wrote a poem
- did some marketing stuff
- keeping myself entertained...

[Natalia]

Okies...

My MS is close to 44K.
I wrote a new article.
I posted one article for critique.
I edited two articles and two stories.
I bought supplies to do more subs.
I wrapped up my first month of teaching at new college (yaay).

Now that I have successfuly negotiated the learning curve at the new job, I should be able to get back to some serious writing and submitting. Although I really need to start shaping up my prospectus for my dissertation.

Ay ay ay ... :)

[ChunkyC]

wrote & submitted my review of Bewitched (better than I thought it would be)
just about done a warp-speed Holly Lisle style revision of HOME in anticipation of WesterCon next week
wrote 1K+ e-mail to my daughter
had lunch w/friend who let me (I forced her) practice pitching my novel to her
had online chat with another friend who gave me tips for approaching publishers/agents at WesterCon, i.e. don't pick nose ... if you must, don't use business cards to wipe hands *
that's it for now, I think


* friend is wicked smart

[Kitahoshi]

:roll:

Look everyone, Kit's mastered the art of making the taser-wiedler laugh.

This is good thing, yes? *speaks in foreign accent* Huzzaga! Now I shall sing for you becasue it will surely amuse. *starts singing I'm afraid of Britney Spears by Live On Release while Kida plays cello*

[ChunkyC]

http://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/images/smilies/Emoterofl5.gif

[triceretops]

About 18 email queries out to agents and a few houses. Edited first draft of Word Wars (first three chapters). Brainstorming and taking notes for new novel.

Triceratops

[ritinrider]

Let's see, umm, worked on the article thing from last week, cut too much out, now it needs more work with some stuff added so it flows better and actually makes sense. Somehow I think editors prefer it if the articles in their pub make sense to their readers.

Critiqued two things for other writers.

Added about 600 words to E. Did some brainstorming on E. This thing may actually be readable yet.

Think that's it for this week oh mighty wielder of the tazer.

Nita

[Unique]

2 long hand stories into Word Doc's (~ 500 words)

6,550 words in a separate Word Doc (not my words, but they're paying words so I'll keep them, thank you very much)

Smile me, Zap me, Roll me in batter and fry me like a hoe-cake; I'm too hot and tired to care and I still have another 30,000 of someone else's words to work on. (I may be smiling, but I'm not amused)

[WordSoup]

Subbed 2 more batches of greeting cards: total 22

Tried my hand at inspirational prose poetry - ick: total 5

Wrote 2-pg. appeal letter to the unemployment office for hubby: total 654

Tweaked hubby's resume

Wrote 3 emails to daughter who is visiting her grandparents in Indiana.

Researched a few more greeting card markets.

- Jen

[maestrowork]

Oh yeah, check out my website (in my sig) and tell me what you think. :D

[Cate]

Wow--it looks FABULOUS!
I really like the way you have it set up--very very nice!

[Birol]

Weekenders, I'm just settling in now to play Zap the Slackers and Hand Out Stars. Barb's deep, dark diabolical plot in getting me to wield the taser first worked. I ended up writing 3K in TBWN this week, but haven't accomplished much else writing-wise. It's progress, but I'm not that happy with it. Will improve this week.

Okay, everyone line up and brace yourselves. Here come the Zaps & Stars. :)

[Birol]

Congratulations. Even without the taser, you continue to be a leader and an example to us all. (Except when you smack yourself with those heavy chains. Be careful with them, okay?) I'm glad to see you continue to produce while in the middle of jumping those Real Life hurdles.

Keep it up.

:Trophy:

[Birol]

Kida, you did well taking the time to jot down the general idea while it was fresh in your head. Barb would be proud of you and your notebook. I'm glad to hear you done with school for the year. No zap for you this week because it was finals (or the Canadian equivalent), but *Lori takes out a lighter and holds it to Ally's Taser-free pass* when your computer games start tempting you to procrastinate, remember Mac's creating a New & Improved Taser just for her week as the Taser-Wielder. We won't mention what KatieMac's building up to.

Enjoy the summer. Write much. :)

[Birol]

Woohoo, Allen! Way to go. Come up and stand up at the front of the room as an example to us all. Don't mind the grumbles and paper wads. We're all just a bit envious at your dedication and ability to resist the Procrastination Demons. I think you're our star performer this week.

:Trophy: :Trophy: :Trophy:


Hope you enjoyed your relaxing weekend.

[Birol]

Cate, that is just a stellar week. Your writing appearing in a book, editors contacting you. All of your hard work this year is really paying off, isn't it? Keep it up. It'll just keep getting better and better.

:Trophy: :Trophy:

[Birol]

Okay, you made the Taser-Wielder laugh and I'll let you off the hook for the same "It was finals week" excuse as Ally, since you two are in school together and all, but... Your taser-free pass, please? *Lori takes Kitahoshi's taser-free pass and holds the lighter to it* You can blame Ally for reminding me to take this away from you. ;)

It's summer now. Take a deep breath, glance outside at the sun, and climb off Ally's back. It's time to snuggle up with your computer and writing for the summer. Even blind monkeys can type -- I think.

[Birol]

Renee'!

Sounds like you are on the right track and doing well. Glad to hear you're getting everything set for TPQ pending release. You shouldn't beat yourself up for not finishing the essays just yet. One has to start something before you can finish it.

Keep up the good work.

[Birol]

Mac, Mac, Mac. *shakes head sadly*

ZZZZZZZZZzzzzzzzTTTTTttttttttt

Weird. Remember Weird? Finish it. Please. I need something new to read.

[Birol]

Progress. Progress is good. And you've made progress this week. Those tricky scenes can be hard. Hope you're not allowing yourself to get too bogged down with it as you continue to move forward. No taser for you this week. It's all goodness. Except for maybe that "keeping yourself entertained" bit. How does that relate to writing exactly?

[Birol]

Natalia, the balancing act is hard, especially when Life is throwing new challenges at you. I'll be looking to you to find out how to make that happen. I hope that now that your life is settling back into a routine, you'll continue to post lists (preferably ones that don't include shopping as an accomplishment ;) ) that include the words "I wrote" and "I edited".

Kudos for writing and editing even while you're learning a new routine.

:Trophy:

[Birol]

A 1K e-mail to your daughter? Nice way to pad your list, CC. Not that you needed to. Rewrites and preparing for WesterCon are very time consuming and very important things. I wish you the best of luck at WesterCon. Be certain to let us know how your friend's advice helped you out.

:Trophy: :Trophy:

[ChunkyC]

Will do, oh high priestess.

PS -- finished the HL-revision on Saturday, then yesterday made the edits on the first 26 chapters. 12 to go. Also working on committing my basic pitch to memory.

I thought I was done with school.

PSS -- just found out sci-fi great Larry Niven is coming to Westercon. I'm gonna faint.

[Birol]

18 Queries? That's exhausting to even think about. I hope that many, many of them do NOT permit you to add to the Rejection list and they leave you with the difficult task of choosing between the positive responses. And edits on top of it? No zaps for you this week, either.


:Trophy:

[Birol]

:roll: Editors want their articles to make sense to the readers now? What will they want next? Articles that aren't written in crayon? Sorry. I think I should zap you because I really bet you could accomplish more, but for whatever reason, your comments about editors tickled me. So, for making the Taser-Wielder laugh, you escape your zap. (I'm such a sucker.)

And you are making progress, moving forward. Keep working on E. I want to read it one day.

[Birol]

Unique, Barb always tells me, "a girl's gotta eat" whenever I'm whining about an assignment or something that will pay in a more timely fashion taking time away from TBWN. Don't beat yourself up over the edits. They are a paying assignment and writing related. Just keep your priorities and goals clear and keep moving forward, a little at a time. You'll get there.

No zap for you. (I know you're disappointed. :) )

[Birol]

Jen, I think the e-mails to your daughter fall under "padding", the same as CC's letter to his daughter. I understand you miss her, but writing to her does not add to your valid weekly progress report.

As for the rest, it sounds like you're doing a great job. Subbing 2 batches for a total of 22 greeting card ideas? And expanding your boundaries by working on prose poetry. Good for you.

Keep up the good work.

[Birol]

Will do, oh high priestess.

PS -- finished the HL-revision on Saturday, then yesterday made the edits on the first 26 chapters. 12 to go. Also working on committing my basic pitch to memory.

I thought I was done with school.

PSS -- just found out sci-fi great Larry Niven is coming to Westercon. I'm gonna faint.

We're never done with school, CC. Never, ever, ever.

Take some labels to WesterCon and get Larry Niven's autograph for me, okay? :D

[katiemac]

I'm late, I'm late, I'm late! Sorry Lori.

I've got a count of 6,000 this week. I may have written more - give or take a couple thousand - but I really haven't a clue where I left off last week. This is my best guess. I need a better system on recording my weekly count. (Note to self - page 80.)

I don't have much to say other than that - I think things are coming along nicely this time. Hopefully I'll be finished up within the next couple of weeks, then I can go over it once for grammar/structure, minor edits, and then work on recruiting some betas.

Okay, I'm out!

[Kitahoshi]

Yay! not getting zapped! *dances* Losing that tazer free pass makes me sad. And frightened. <_< ....>_> I'm getting more writing done as of late (due to not having school to ruin my midnight hours). Err... my midnight hours refer to my best writing hours which happen to occur on or after midnight. ^^()

[Birol]

6000 words. Wow! Good going. Betas, Betas *looking under pillows and behind cabinets* I'm sure we can find you a beta or two around here somewhere, just as soon as you reach The End and it sounds like you're on track to get there.

:Trophy: :Trophy:

[Birol]

Yay! not getting zapped! *dances* Losing that tazer free pass makes me sad. And frightened. <_< ....>_> I'm getting more writing done as of late (due to not having school to ruin my midnight hours). Err... my midnight hours refer to my best writing hours which happen to occur on or after midnight. ^^()

It should frighten you. I just finished slipping the taser under Mac's pillow for her to find when she wakes up. No telling what she'll do with it, especially since she's the only person I zapped this week.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm frightened, too, and must go pound out some words now. :Hammer:

[maestrowork]

Mac has the taser?


Let the TERROR begin.... RUN!!!!!

[Kida Adelyne]

*runs to the computer to build up a shield of words*

[Kitahoshi]

*laughs at the terror since it's only Monday and she's finished her word count and surpassed it* BWAHAHAHAHA! Fear my free time! It's FREEEEEEEEE! *happy dance* Man, that would have been scary to face Mac's wrath... O.O()

[Unique]

*Waves taser haphazardly. Catches sight of a bright pink post-it stuck to the bottom. Pulls it off to read.* NOTE FROM BARB: June 30th is the end of the second quarter. Mac or Lori should ask everyone to doublecheck their goals to see if they are accomplishing everything they wanted to do this year.

Huh. Sounds like a plan.

Okay, Weekenders, time to sound off.

MEMO TO WPR MEMBERS

I've been giving a lot of thought to Barb's suggestion that we double check our goals. I made my goals pathetically low in hopes that I would meet them.

I haven't. Not even close.

That said, I'm pondering what to replace them with. I'll let you know if I come up with anything. For now, I'm replacing them with word count. I know I can babble on like the village idiot when given half the chance. (Can you tell I'm missing the taser?)

[katiemac]

*laughs at the terror since it's only Monday and she's finished her word count and surpassed it* BWAHAHAHAHA! Fear my free time! It's FREEEEEEEEE! *happy dance* Man, that would have been scary to face Mac's wrath... O.O()

I dunno, Kit. I see Mac envying all that free time too much. She's want OTHER accomplishments now that you've got other accomplishments so early in the week....

[MacAllister]

Anyone who has already surpassed her goal word count by MONDAY is not playing the game right.

Kita--I penalize you at least one original short story for the week. You mustn't brag in front of all these hapless writers who have jobs and children and such...

WRITE WRITE WRITE WRITE, People!!!!
BEWARE MY SLEEP-DEPRIVED CHEEZE!!!

errr....

ahem...

see y'all Friday, eh?

[jdkiggins]

I wasn't going to go through the 50 pages of posts to see if I'd even made a progress report. Let's just say I'm about 25 weeks behind. :D

You people really rock! I have a pile of short stories, articles, and book manuscripts that need edited. Anyone want to help? LOL

Seriously, though, I do have a pile on the floor. (no work area since I moved in with Mom.) Not much time either.

But I am managing:
(I know, Mac. A far cry from my report in the horror thread.) :)
To edit about 2 pages of my horror book each night.
Read at least two chapters of a book in the wee hours of the morning.
And still work on editing a few short stories before sunrise.

Congrats! to all on such great progress!

[Unique]

Dang, Joanne. Couldn't you have waited til it was MY week with the taser? Shoot. <kicks dirt and shuffles off>

[jdkiggins]

Goodness, I'll have to read back a few pages and find out what this taser is all about. Whoever is in charge, please don't put me in charge of it anytime soon. I may hurt myself. :D

[Kitahoshi]

Anyone who has already surpassed her goal word count by MONDAY is not playing the game right.

Kita--I penalize you at least one original short story for the week. You mustn't brag in front of all these hapless writers who have jobs and children and such...

WRITE WRITE WRITE WRITE, People!!!!
BEWARE MY SLEEP-DEPRIVED CHEEZE!!!

O_O NOOOOOOOOOOO!! I just back to my comp and it's Thursday! Looks like I'll have to pull an all nighter for that penalty. *tear* I'll up my word count to 5 000 next week. It should keep me busy. I burned my back two days in a row this week and had my heart broken bringing up old teenie bopper memories. I think I'll write about that. *sigh* Love stories are wonderful but love isn't real in the end. *walks away to write*

...*sticks head back in* isn't that my cheese? o_O

[MacAllister]

*sticky, snarky singsong chant* I got the taser, I got the taser....


BWAHHHHHHAAAAHAaahahahahaaa!!!!!!!!!!!! Friday's coming, folks....
Kita, I'll armwrestle you for the cheese...:D

[Kitahoshi]

*sticky, snarky singsong chant* I got the taser, I got the taser....


BWAHHHHHHAAAAHAaahahahahaaa!!!!!!!!!!!! Friday's coming, folks....
Kita, I'll armwrestle you for the cheese...:D

Eep! *writes faster* And about the cheese? I'll probably grow another one anyhow. When school comes around again... O_O yuck. ... I hunger. Guess what? My story features a bit of Japanese and German (translation explained in the text). And uhhh... yeah. Back to writing it. ^^()

[Unique]

It's Friday. I'm going to get this over with early.

817 new words of fiction. I did the math - it's been 28 years since I've written any fiction. 28 years!

Anyway, I'd like to post it in SYW, but I'm not sure how to do that 'link' thingy...
and it's mostly dialogue and I can't for the life of me figure out where the darn thing is going. (maybe nowhere)

So...in addition to working on other people's words, I have 817 of my own words. Not prodigious by any means but I'm happy with them.

***can I have a >zap< now, please? pretty please? I think it'd help a lot***
( ...as Unique staggers away mumbling about cheese and institutions and electricity...)