Write what you know....

After crazy thoughts of direct communication, followed by advice about futility, I recall the most important words of wisdom:

Be careful what you say, or I'll put you in my novel.

I'm off, now, to pile frustration onto Griffin now. Golly, I wonder what she'll be driven to do by the end of this story??

Bela Fleck & the Flecktones

Had the pleasure of seeing these guys live just before Christmas. Brings a whole new meaning to the term "mind-blowing." Thanks to Victor Wooten for inspiring The Girl to play bass again. This tune is called "Zona Mona" from the "Live at the Quick" album. Cheers.

Pug Dog discovery

Years ago I saw an old B&W movie on TV wherein there was a scene of a woman going on to her husband about a "pug dog". For years I've been wondering what that movie was, but had not much to go on, because all I could remember was the woman's voice saying, "pug dog."

I happen to be presently reading "Life With Mother" by Clarence Day, Jr., the sequel to "Life With Father." In this book I came across a chapter called "Mother and Pug Dogs and Rubber Trees." Naturally I experienced an Aha! moment. I searched it up online, and sure enough, there was a movie made in 1947 of Life With Father, starring William Powell and Irene Dunne. I think the bit I remember happened earlier in the film than this clip, but this confirms that the mystery is solved. Hooray!

Starting fresh

I've given my blog a new look. It may not stay like this, as I experiment with it. But it needed a facelift, as I'm off to a new start.

2010 was a year of far too much excitement. Some of it was good: The Winter Olympics in Vancouver; Healthy, happy children having their own successes; my short story, He Had It Coming, was a finalist in the SiWC Storyteller's contest. Some of it was less good: forced lessons in acceptance of circumstances, plus learning that I'm a strong coper. Earth to Doris folded, for a variety of reasons, though I miss it very much. Also said goodbye to Chris Colt and the 45's, again a variety of reasons. FAT Jazz is still going strong.

I learned that I am still a positive, happy person in spite of troublesome circumstances.

In spite of the troubles of the fall, I have continued to write: the story for SiWC, two short pieces for the Sleuth Mystery contest (which I believe did not arrive in time, so perhaps I can resubmit them next year!). I worked a fair amount on my paranormal romance until I realise it was too much right now. Instead I am back into Griffin, a decision which is heartily supported by Loki and JS Lyster, as per earlier posts! I have submitted this story to the PNWA Writing Contest, so we'll see how that goes.

Meantime, we continue. Griffin is calling.