Showing posts with label write. Show all posts
Showing posts with label write. Show all posts

2010-09-09

Why are so many obsessed with being skinny?

I was listening to the radio this morning and Kelly Ripa was on talking, and when the DJ asked her what she does to maintain her weight, she rattled off about 3 to 4 different regimes. While I think it is great to be healthy, I draw the line at looking like a little skinny rat. Then I asked myself this question: is there something fundamentally wrong with actually looking like a woman with curves?

All I see everyday are ads aimed at making me feel bad for having hips or having soft body parts. I used to have real bad self-esteem issues. I still do up to a point, but I also realized that I like looking and feeling like a woman, and not someone else’s idea of what a woman should look like. I want to get healthy hence the trail walking I am trying to do on the weekends. But I refuse to diet anymore. All it does is make a person irritable and hungry.

Looking and feeling like a woman is ok. I know this from personal experience. I did a drastic diet and lost the weight and for a bit I thought I was happy. I was small, and skinny, all I ever wanted. But I was not healthy. I had even more issues with being “skinny.” And like most people who lose weight, I too gained it back. But in the gaining, I was actually happier because I had some of my womanly parts back. I can tell you this I do not ever want to be that skinny ever again.

But on the flip side, some women are genetically slim or skinny. That is fine, but to be obsessed with trying to look like a skinny person, then that is where I draw the line. I mean that is like wanting to be tall but genetically your short. Just some things in life you have to let go.

In the end, I am glad that I am a woman with curves. Being healthy, well that is the goal, not weight loss, even though it will occur, I know it won’t lead to the skinny rat I became. Curves rule!
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2010-09-08

Picture Art

Photography is a way to capture the world around you. Photo shop enhances the world a bit, giving an artistic flair to an otherwise ordinary picture.


Chipped-Mouse

I am learning that still life, while still can also give the illusion of movement, as seen in my efforts to make the mouse come "alive".
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2010-09-07

Five Things I Want to do Before I Die

I saw this prompt for a blog topic, and while at first reading I thought it sounded a bit macabre, after thinking about it for a bit, I realize that it is more a goal-oriented prompt. So after thinking long and hard here is my list of things I want to do:
1. Travel. I want to travel more, actually go to Europe and explore places that I’ve only seen or read about in books and television.
2. Write. I have the imagination. I have the tools. I want to see my pen name on a book. Procrastination and self-doubt are my mental enemies.
3. Graduate from college. I love to learn and doing this is a personal goal of mine: to walk with a cap and gown, with my family cheering me on. I missed out on my high school one.
4. Win the lottery. Especially before I get to old to really have a use for the money.
5. Sing in a band as well as finally learn to play my guitar that is sitting in the trunk of my car.
This is my bucket list so to speak. I really want to do things that I missed out by becoming a parent at a young age. Do I regret my choices? Hell no! But I also know that there are experiences I’ve missed out and while I know it is ok, I definitely want to try now that my kids are older. I am ready to live a little so to speak.

http://www.examiner.com/x-5465-Erotica-and-Romance-Books-Examiner Enjoy erotic/romance book reviews? Receive email alerts when new reviews are available. Just click on the "subscribe" button on the link above.
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2010-09-05

Blackberry Love

I just realized that I have never talked about the love of my life. Nope not my kids. They have a different kind of love from me. That love is called "I gotta love 'em no matter what". No this would be my Blackberry Curve. It is in the most fantabolous color, purple, which is my favorite color.

Blackberry-Love

I got the phone in February of this year. It is my first smart phone and I absolutely love it! I'd consider an iPhone, but I hate AT&T so opted for this one on sprint. I have never looked back! I must say that smart phones are awesome and are seriously fun to play with. Oh yeah and of course you can talk on them. But I have to say that for me social networking is probably the reason I got the phone. I am happy and I will never look at a standard cell phone again.
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2010-09-04

How I see...

This chair is just a regular chair, but sometimes, I see art in the simplest things. I also added a nice treatment over the picture in photoshop.

Chair

Art is everywhere. Though I do not consider myself an artist, I am proud of the work I've produced with my digital camera.
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2010-09-02

Abandoned Beach

Writing is a good way to sometimes deal with the bull shit in your life. Well I got it and sometimes it sticks to me like glue, where I find it hard to get it off. So writing it out helps to alleviate the stickiness. I sometimes write in metaphors. And this post is my art therapy so to speak. I am posting another one of my pics (I will prolly do this all month, just to show off my mad skills). This one I titled Abandoned Beach.

Abandoned-beach-filter

I added a nice filter in photoshop, which makes, I think, my pictures pop. I took this while walking on the Torry Pines Trail, in La Jolla. This was the beginning of a 2 hour walk. Hurt like a bitch, but the payoff are awesome pictures of a beautiful Southern California coastline.

Here is what the photo looked before I photoshopped it:

Abandoned-beach

Enjoy!

http://www.examiner.com/x-5465-Erotica-and-Romance-Books-Examiner Enjoy erotic/romance book reviews? Receive email alerts when new reviews are available. Just click on the "subscribe" button on the link above.
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2009-09-02

I Review Books... Anyone Hiring?




So I am a writer of many things, from blogging, writing short short fiction, to book reviews. And I can say that I am loving all the writing. I want to make it a full time career, but at this point writing is a hobby.

The book reviews I do are probably the most fun, besides blogging, that allows me to be me in an academic way. Blogging is all about personality whereas my articles have to come from my experience as a reader of erotica and romance. Yeah I am an erotic reviewer.

Now I just don't just do books, but review sites, other blogs, and publishers. I LOVE it! Of course the research is just a bonus =D.

But the very best thing about reviewing? Is being asked to review! That is so cool. I hate to admit this, lol, but I get "author-struck". It is like star-struck only I get giddy over meeting authors either in person or online! Now shh, tell no one!

So if you're over eighteen, and want to know about a book, site, blog, or publisher you should stop by my site. You'll love it! Shameless Plug #1

San Diego Erotica and Romance Books Examiner
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2009-08-11

Writing Full Time...I Wish!

I have been writing pretty much everyday since March 2009. I finally realize that this is what I seriously love to do. I want to write more and actually get paid more for it, but short of writing that novel, I am in a bind.

I feel that something is holding me back from the longer novel length story that has been itching to get out of me, yet the short writing exercises I’ve been able to do in the last couple of weeks have been truly rewarding.

I wish I can get paid to write short articles on a much bigger scale than I do now. I get paid a penny a page view, and I average about $50 a month. Not bad, but I wish it was more, enough for me to do this on a continuous basis. Meaning full time.

One person recently stated that I should look to get into the synopsis writing business. I tried to go online to check out rates and how I can get started but I was not able to find anything concrete. I know there is a job out there like that, because there are books out there that have brief summaries on the back. I know I can do that. Hell I do that in my articles which currently number at 105 articles to date.

I guess I’ll bide my time and wait. For now I am enjoying the benefits of free books to read and the exposure that my writing is getting. I only wish more people would read this blog. I have so much to say. =D
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2009-05-21

My tiny rant

I tell you, writing is solitary business. I find myself wanting to write more each day, yet my job intrudes. I need it, but I want to write full time. And make money at it.

My only thing is that I thought I'd seriously would be writing novels not reviews or articles, yet I am happy with the results. Now if only I can stop procrastination and JDI (just do it!)

I'll keep plugging away. I have to. I don't want to lose the momentum I've created for myself. Maybe being a reviewer is the way in.
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2009-05-18

I had an Epiphany: And it is good

Ok I am not a social media whiz, I am not an SEO optimizer (is that even right??), I will not promise you that I can show you how to work from home with the new, amazing next thing. I am not an advertiser, spammer, famous person or a person who thinks their famous for being on a fake reality show.

But I am a writer. I am also a mother. (See how I put writing first? Sometimes you have to be selfish!)

For the past eighteen years, I’ve been one but not the other. In the past three months, I find myself writing more than I ever wrote before, yet today is the day that I realize I am a writer.

I’ve dreamed about being a published writer since high school. I’ve dabbled for the past eighteen years, have more starts than anything (many notebooks and papers filled with ideas), and even have four stories published, yet not once would I have called myself a writer.

It has taken complete strangers, on a little known mini-blogging site, to make me realize that I can now call myself a writer and be proud.

It is because I took a chance on a whim. I was playing around on craigslist (not the adult stuff I swear) and looked under writing gigs. This is when I first started this blog, and got the idea of getting paid to blog (so far no money). I saw the listing examiner.com and I applied.

I won’t lie it scared me because I did not think it was legit as it was on craigslist. I also never heard of examiner.com. Then I went on the site, and damn near every examiner was a serious professional in his or her chosen niche. How was I to compete with that? So while I was intimidated, I went for it. And the rest they say is history (yeah cliché I know!).

I guess the reason for my musings (yeah I said musing like a real writer) is that writing is not a job, it just is. Either you do it, or you talk about it. Wow look at me, being all writerly like (ok I know not a real word but I took linguistics so I know you can change words to mean anything!).

The thing is I’d have never thought reviews would be my way in. I had dreams of being a novel writer. While I am not giving up on that dream, I am happy to write what I know. Thank you!
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2009-04-08

An Average Persons Take on Twitter and What They’ve Learned While Tweeting about Stuff


Twitter is this really cool mini blog site that allows me to let people know about my day in 140 characters or less. At least that is what the home page said before I signed up.

But since I am already on myspace and facebook, why should I do another social media platform? I mean what could Twitter do for me?

Well a lot it turns out. I started twittering March 12, 2009. Why? Well I started writing for examiner.com in San Diego (erotica stuff) and one of their big things is viral marketing. Not really familiar with that term as I am not a marketer of anything, I decided to give Twitter a try. I am also an average person with an average job. I’m not a motivational coach, author, celebrity, marketing genius, html code writer, owner of my own company, savvy blogger writer, real estate agent, or anything else that stands out on Twitter.

Twitter for the brand new person, is not fun. Why? Because when I first signed up, there are people for me to follow if I click ok. Well I decided to not follow them and started off with no followers, which I saw right away was a mistake. There are also so many little details that I didn’t get at first, which frustrated me and of course I was not going to ask!

Well through trial and error, I finally figured Twitter out enough to understand that it is an important tool to work with.

First off, following leads to people following you. Weird huh? I thought so too but I can tell you hands down it works. The more people I followed (done manually, by clicking “follow”) the more people jumped on my personal bandwagon (now I did try one of those fun little tools “get 20,000 people in 30 days” well fell flat and kinda sucked)! And that was something I didn’t get right away, because in my thinking, why do I want to read what others have to tweet if they are not in my niche (yeah another thing I found out about. For example, I am a reviewer of erotica, so I started looking for people who would be more willing to read what I posted, like other erotica writers or anyone with the name erotic)?

But that thinking is wrong, because when I finally started following others not in my niche, I was able to learn what re-tweeting was all about (basically copy a tweet you think is cool, put RT in front voila you’ve sent a shout out over the twitterverse), what replies to @nettagyrl means (this one is fun because unlike direct mail which goes to the individual only, this function is to specific person and all your followers can also see the tweet), and why people direct message. I also learned that there are people who are hilarious and willing to show people how much they can get out of Twitter. These are the tools that make Twitter the powerhouse that it is!

From advice to counseling to reading what someone just ate (and yes I am one of those who will tweet almost anything!) to learning what your favorite celebrity is doing, to knowing how you can achieve marketing gold, Twitter allows all of these people to interact in real time who otherwise would never meet.

So I follow almost anyone who follows me. Who I don’t follow are people without a bio or where there location is or any updates. It makes me think that it is probably a spam-bot and those are never fun!

Bottom line, Twitter is here to stay and I am glad I got in when I did. While it is a mini blog about your day, dreams, triumphs, updates, work, fun, it is also a social media powerhouse that is here to stay. And no I didn’t get paid for this darn it! I love to talk; it says so on my Twitter bio!

Any thoughts? Please tell me why you Twitter or why you don’t. Want to follow me? Click here: http://twitter.com/nettagyrl as I randomize about stuff everyday. Thanks!
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2009-03-26

And I'm Telling You...

I started chapter 2 of my story and I am uber excited. But then I remembered that I had written a chapter 2 and 3 already and went on a search. Unfortunately I had a different computer that stopped working on me so no luck finding on my current computer. So I remembered my fiction writing class I took, and looked through all my papers (yep I still have them). I found only one copy but it is one that was heavily critiqued. I tell you, being the only one in a class who actually reads the subject she wants to write is not really helpful. While the class overall was awesome (such as helping with mixing tenses and other grammar fun) some people really didn’t know the art of good constructive feedback.

So I am going to be joining the fishtank (a place for people like me looking to get critques and feedback on erotica), thanks to another blogger Marc Nobb (who is also a published author, so yeah I will take his advice). I looked over the site and I think and hope it will be a good fit. I mean, I know what I like to read as a reader, so I am hoping that will translate well when I start writing.

I am also going to have to start a new blog. The horror!! I am so busy, but I think it is what I need. I started a yahoo group, but I don’t like how my story structure came out, no indents, and just plain weird looking. I am looking to come up with a pen name and alter ego for my new blog. Something sassy, sarcastic and sensual (wow I used alliteration!!). While my own Name rocks like no tomorrow, I want something that showcases me and the style of writing I have chosen to write.

I came up with this name Ebonee Blaque, but for some reason I really think it is either already taken, or it sounds like a porn star name. And I can not have a porn sounding name. So I am going to be brainstorming.

Here is a question to you. What would your pen name be? For any genre of writing. I think this will be fun. And this is hoping people read my blog. Why? Cuz I have to stuff to say dammit! So look for my new blog soon. Now I have to think like a Writer. Nice.
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2009-03-24

One Person's pursuit of actually finishing what she started!

I finally started writing again, but not what I thought I would be doing. I am writing reviews for Erotic e-book publishers as well as erotic books. Have to say that I am having a blast. The funny thing is, I am doing all the things established, published writers do which is actually sit down and write something. Yes I am prompted by the web site or book I am reading, but I still have to actually create something to say. That is some powerful stuff.

Now if only I can do that for myself personally. Or actually get off my lazy caboose and exercise. Ha Ha Ha. If only it were so simple. But maybe it is. I mean so many people do it every single day, yet procrastination is thy name.

So these are my questions. Which I hope someone answers!

I like to know what keeps a person typing from beginning to end to create or craft a story. I want to know how a person does not get distracted from the big picture, which in this case would be the “book”.

I want to continue to get into a habit of writing everyday, because I truly like the way I sound when I read my words out loud. Honestly I think I rock, but of course that is my personal opinion, and if I don’t have my own back who will?!

Want to see my writing in action? Click here for my recent reviews. Click here if you’re over 18 and not easily offended by the words of others whose sole purpose is to titillate and arouse. (I have no control if you decide to go explorin’. You’re on your own on this website.)
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2009-02-10

Anger Management 101

Thursday last week 02/05/09 , I had a terrible day. It got so bad in fact that I had to take several breaks, and on one occasion had tears of frustration in my eyes. So I did something that I haven’t done in awhile; write poetry as a way to bleed out all the anger I felt.

So I read the poem again this morning and hello, it is kinda creepy. Now I don’t know if it is because it is my own work and I am biased or if it really is a creepy little piece of literature.

My oldest son always tells me that I am gothy and emo in my feelings. I find that funny as I don’t dress or exactly “live” the lifestyle or culture.

But I guess if I have dark periods, love vamps, moody, and listen to so called “emo” music I guess that I am.

But let it be known, I personally don’t call myself these things, only that my son describes me as such. I’d love to see myself in some of the clothing favored by both cultures, but only at Halloween.

But I digress. Here is the poem:

Inflicted
I hear the Harpies sing
an off-key melody,
grating and grinding.
My ears bleed out
thoughts no longer mine.

They cackle in joy,
their triumph over my defeat.

I smell their defilement,
their filth, as they crowd closer,
their warm, fetid breath,
a humid experience.

I can’t move, locked in
utter horror as my eyes
try to lose focus on the
vision around me.

It is not finished, but I like what I got. Is it a masterpiece? Not really. But it was how I felt at the time and now I captured the feeling of a bad day for me, so to speak in a series of words. Comments are always welcome as well as any feedback/critique. But keep in mind if your that person who loves to bash on others just for the fun of it, then your not welcome. Thanks.

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2009-02-08

What if Vampires could eat food?

Ok just finished this new vampire book. It is called Eternal by V. K. Forrest. It is a paranormal romance. Ok here is what I liked about the book.

First off as you read the beginning of the story from the main character point of view Fia Kahill, you don't get the sense that she is a vampire. I mean the back of the book says she is, but she doesn't come off that way. Why? It is because she is an FBI agent, who can walk in the sun and eat food. Whoa! That was something different. As a side note I am always reading vampire books and it is nice to come across one the has its own rules.

So not only does she eat food but she has a therapist. She also has an addiction. She goes out at night dressed as a hooker and picks up men to drink blood. But in this vampire novel, her sept (like her vampire coven) decided to protect humans because they are convinced that God cursed them and it is their goal to look after humanity.

I like the fact that in this vampire story, these vampires, while immortal, age like normal humans and die. Then they rise after 3 days and have no recollection of their life until they hit 21. I love that idea.

While I really like the idea of this vampire lore, I was disappointed in the fact that Fia had too many problems. I mean she is a vampire, who works as an FBI agent, but she also has a low self-esteem, little confidence, and kinda of a pushover with her family. I needed her to have a little bit more backbone.

I am also disapointed that the sex scenes were far and few between. And not as descriptive as I like. Don't get me wrong, this author is well written, but I feel that the cover and back cover are a little misleading. While she does fall for the guy, they don't acutally get together until the last half of the book.

So I'd recommend this book for the cool vampire lore and interesting overall story, but this is not a keeper in my book collection. I give this a 3 out of 5.

Thanks and if you think that I am wrong by all means comment.
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2009-02-05

The Art of Procrastination...

So I’ve always wanted to be a writer for as long as I can remember. Ever since the 4th grade in Mr. Eckhardt’s class and I wrote my first A book report. And I even have some short stories published on a website.

But I can’t seem to get into the groove of actually completing a novel from beginning to end. I have so many stories that I have started that I should have several novels under my belt.

I actually have one story that is done. Unfortunately it is all in my head. The characters are real to me and they want to come out and be, but I have yet to put pen to paper or fingers to keys to completely finish this novel. (I even have the dang title!!)

At 37 I am not getting any younger, though my age has nothing to really do with it. I think what it is for me being my age; I wish that I was already an established writer. I still want to make a living at it, but procrastination is my middle name.

Maybe I love to read too much? I am an avid reader. I can read anywhere from 3-6 books a week. Yeah, I really can read that much. See now that is dedication.

But writing in my own voice would be a welcome relief. I just come up with excuses that apparently are working. I have no discipline. Maybe I need to go to a writer’s boot camp for the writer challenged.

Now that sounds like fun. Maybe the program could be about writer drills, sit at your desk for one hour writing non-stop, and exercise your imagination 101. I’d probably go. Or probably not because knowing me I’d procrastinate to sign up. Oh well.

So here is my question for all: For those who have actually accomplished their dream and finished your novel from beginning to end (published or not) what were your work ethics? What made you finally just stop and write? Inquiring minds want to know!

Zesty Nachos outro!

P.S. How many clichés can you find in this post? No prizes accept bragging rights.
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