Sofas and Scripts

Beyond the Sofa...

2011-11-15T13:41:00.001Z

It's not very often I venture out, unless I've run out of teabags or such other vital business. This weekend, however, saw me up at the hideous hour of 4:15am (Who would have thought such a time existed?) to wend my way to Glasgow for the Screenwriting, Networking and Pitching Workshop. I would like to say I jumped out of bed in a rush of refreshed energy, but that would be utter rubbish. I crawled, sobbing, like a poor broken zombie. Can't remember much of the train journey; I think I mostly dozed until Dundee o'clock.
The course itself, run by Phil Gladwin and Phil Shelley, was an intense, two day workshop which covered subjects such as story structure, generating ideas and a very novel exercise in character creation, through to marketing yourself and your work. It was full of interactive tasks which were both interesting and thought provoking, and covered so much practical information that can only come from years of experience working in the business. Of course, what course would be complete without a good chinwag in the bar afterward?
Guest speakers, Eric Coulter and Kate Croft, were fascinating and entertaining to listen to.
Unfortunately, I completely bombed at the pitching exercise and turned into a shaking, babbling physical wreck... Nevertheless, it was a truly excellent weekend and I had the pleasure of meeting a bunch of lovely and talented folk. Well worth dragging myself off the sofa for!

Holiday Blues

2011-08-10T12:14:00.001+01:00

It's been over a week since returning from the lovely, sunny isle of Mallorca. (Well, mostly sunny, as long as you don't count the several days of cloud and rain; but we don't talk about those.) For the first time ever, I actually have an all-over-not-quite-so-pale-and-insipid-bit-of-colour. Not entirely 'all-over', I must make haste to point out, it wasn't a nudist holiday or anything. (The unfortunate incident on the beach that morning was purely accidental, I swear.)

So, now it's back to the scribbly stuff in earnest. I've had some good things though, since I got back. Got paid the final cheques for a screenplay and a treatment, that I thought would involve a whole lot more rewriting than I expected, which was a jolly nice relief.
Also, at the weekend, I found out that I'm a finalist in the EotP International Film Festival script writing competition, which was a really nice surprise. I'm going to see if I can make the journey down to the festival this year. Although it's quite a hike, I'm sure it'll be worth it. Tis a jolly good festival, so go and have a look!

Until then, I'm working on a very exciting Dark Harvest project which will hopefully keep me out of trouble for a while or so.

Liquid Lunch

2011-06-13T17:53:00.000+01:00

There's a rather excellent and very funny online comedy show running at the moment. Written by the ever lovely and sickeningly talented Danny Stack, tis definitely worth catching up with! And if you don't - I shall take it upon myself to come round and slap you over the chops with a rather smelly wet fish. Yes - YOU! I know where you live!

You can also visit the main site over here.

Did I Really Write That?

2011-06-06T16:47:00.002+01:00

One of the nicest things about finishing a particular script, is not only does it fill me with a sense of achievement and warm glowiness, (and gives me the excuse to run down to the corner shop and go wild in the wine section,) but it's the wonderful fact that I can just totally forget about it. And I mean, totally and utterly forget about it. It means I don't have to wake up at 5am fretting and trying to convince myself that I shouldn't even think about even attempting to write anything at all due my absolute rubbishness in all things scribbly.

So it usually comes as a rather pleasant, and highly surprising event if it gets placed or wins, (if it's a competition) because I really, truly, have completely thrown it out of my concious memory. It can be such a delightful shock to find that I've actually produced something solid rather that stare vacantly into space as most people tend to think I do all day.

They are of course, correct.

Mostly.

Onward

2011-05-30T11:39:00.000+01:00

I sent off the first draft of the screenplay today - which of course means that I'll spend the next few weeks fretting about what the notes will say.
So, 'tis onto the next tasks which include writing up a second draft of a short film that's lurking around. Whether I get it done on time to put it in for what I plan to, is anyone's guess!
Also going to rewrite another little joint project, which so far is a lot of fun.
I've also have another treatment to write, so just waiting for the details of that job to come through. Busy, busy! Time to get a wiggle on I think!

Sofa's and Scripts

2011-05-20T11:49:00.000+01:00

Good progress on one of my current work projects. I finished the first draft of the novel adaptation I've been hired to do - ahead of deadline! I'll be able to re-write it and tweak it over the next week or so.

Today, I had planned to have a bit of a lie-in as a treat, however, one of the ever so thoughtful neighbours decided to rip out their windows at 7:30 am. Joy.

So, I think I'll spend the afternoon finishing up a spec script that really should have been finished ages ago...

Or I'll just lounge on the sofa watching tv... or shooting some zombies on the Xbox...

First Signing!

2011-05-18T17:25:00.001+01:00

Saturday saw me attending my first actual proper signing at Asylum Books and Games in Aberdeen.
The ever lovely Iain Lowson, creator of Dark Harvest: Legacy of Frankenstein and good friend, made the perilous journey up North on Friday, bringing probably the best gift EVER!
Up bright and early we turned up at Asylum Books and Games at 10am. It felt really odd being on the other side of the table and we sold and signed a good amount of books with a steady stream of folks coming to see us.
I did notice, however, that my signature kept changing throughout the day!
It was the first time I'd seen a hard copy of this gorgeous book and I got a strange but delightful tingle at seeing my short story in actual proper print!
For those of you not familiar with the setting, DH is set in a very believable and very dark alternative timeline where Victor Frankenstein has wangled his way to power and created the closed country of Promethea (what we would know as Romania). You can imagine our delight when a Romanian lad bought the book, full of enthusiasm for the book and it's setting!
The day, went by so quickly and I thoroughly enjoyed every minute.
Of course, being Saturday, the shop owner closed up early and invited us back to his flat for dinner and Doctor Who!
Definitely one of those most splendid days.

Iain will be traveling to the UK Games Expo in Bristol.

Marching on.

2011-03-05T14:12:00.001Z

Blimey! March already! It'll be Christmas again before you know it.
It's been a busy few months. Lots of scribbly stuff and the eating of pizzas keeping me more or less out of trouble.
I had the good fortune to catch Geoff Holder on Wednesday, who was doing a promotion of his new book, 'The Guide to Mysterious Aberdeen'. A jolly nice chap full of interesting stories and info who also led a short tour of Old Aberdeen, which is where I used to live! It's shocking how much we don't know about our own back yards!
After that, it was a much needed trip to the pub followed by dinner at my favourite Tuscan restaurant. A most splendid break from scribbling!

Other quiveringly exciting news, is that Cubicle 7 are taking advanced orders for Dark Harvest: Legacy of Frankenstein - in fact, you can get your grubby little mitts on one right here!

Not only that, but we shall be shamelessly promoting it at Conpulsion in Edinburgh which takes place from March 25th - 27th! So, if you're in the area drop by and say hello. And if you're not in the area - then get your fuzzy little butts there by any means possible!

A Brand Spanking New Year

2011-01-01T22:50:00.004Z

A whole new year ahead, filled with opportunities, problems, obstacles, challenges and rewards - all exciting and terrifying.
It's time to take this new year, grip it by it's big flappy ears and show it who's boss.
Whatever we have to face in the next 364 days... we will take it as it comes and if we don't like it we can always just cower behind the sofa and hope it goes away.
However we will have to deal with it and somehow we will reach it's end, ready to take on the next one.
A toast my friends... to whatever may be...

Festive Teaser...

2010-12-29T21:52:00.001Z

Two years ago I thought that I'd quite like to have a shot at that writing lark.
If anyone had told me this time last year that I'd be writing Hollywood treatments, about to have a short story published, attended the screening of a fabulous short film in London and met numerous brilliant writers, I'd have poked you in the eye and walloped you with a frying pan for slander.... yet.... tis all true I tell you!
Gather round dear friends while I pour you some grog and tell you my tale... (or you could just bugger off to the pub and make your own entertainment!)
Not to mention the stuff I'm not allowed to talk about! :D

It Had To Happen

2010-11-29T23:06:00.000Z

It's inevitable I suppose. I've been working on a script for a prospective TV thingy for almost two years now. Today I read that something very similar has been signed up for Channel 4. The moral of the lesson of course is not to faff around and get your finger out or else someone will beat you to it. Ah well. Tis all part of the game. *Rip rip rip*

London Screenwriters' Festival

2010-09-15T15:48:00.002+01:00

I thought I'd pass on this info for the upcoming London Screenwriters' Festival. It certainly is worth checking out.

Get an Agent with Circalit and the London Screenwriters’ Festival!

The London Screenwriters’ Festival have teamed up with Circalit to offer screenwriters a chance to get representation. Screenwriters are encouraged to enter the free competition at www.circalit.com. The winning writer will meet with a top London agent, get £100 and free tickets to the London Screenwriters’ Festival! The competition will be judged by the executive team at the London Screenwriters’ Festival and is free to enter. The deadline for submissions is October 15th.

Creative director of the festival and Oscar shortlisted film director Chris Jones commented, “We’re very excited about this competition with Circalit. Circalit’s unique style of competitions don’t just give writers the chance to win prizes, but also to share their work, gain valuable feedback and make industry connections. Circalit are doing the screenwriting community a great service with their free online social network and we’re very pleased to be able to do a competition with them.”

For more information or to enter your script please visit www.circalit.com

Between the Lines

2010-09-05T11:25:00.001+01:00

Cast your peepers on this is a wonderful short by the very talented Scottish film maker, Graeme Buchan. I'm even more excited about this because he is about to start filming one of my shorts 'Terms & Conditions'. So pop it up to full screen, settle back, put your sound up and enjoy!

Check, Double Check and Check Again.

2010-09-05T11:04:00.000+01:00

I made the error of looking over my Red Planet entry the other day. I was horrified at how many glaringly obvious mistakes there were. HORRIFIED!
In spite of having gone through it thoroughly (or so I thought) several times - it was only after it had been sent off that I realised just how many stupid, blatant mistakes there were.
You'd have thought I'd have learned from previous errors to really check it properly this time. (The last dire error I made was when I'd just got some new software and failed to notice that it hadn't imported to PDF as I'd thought it would (lesson learned - make sure you know how to use your software correctly!)
What I should have done was to print it off and then go over it again. It's amazing how mistakes are easily overlooked on the screen stand yet stand out like throbbing sore thumbs on an actual physical page.
Better still, get someone else to read it - fresh pairs of eyes that have never seen the script before will have a better chance of noticing anything out of place/errors/spelling mistakes etc.
I must now, obviously go a stand in a corner and hang my head in shame for several weeks.

So before you send anything off remember - check, double check, leave it for a couple of days then check it several more times!

Then check it again!

Treatments, Adaptations and Rewrites.

2010-08-26T12:37:00.000+01:00

Been quite busy recently. Just finished working on a treatment for an adaptation of a graphic novel. The night after I'd finished and sent it off, I woke up about 4am in a panic convinced that I'd done the whole thing in the wrong font. (I hadn't - I checked.)

I'm now about to start another adaptation of a short story which will hopefully be produced soon by a local Indie filmaker. More on that to come.

Exciting stuff.

I put in my entry for the Red Planet Prize too, but on hindsight it's a bit rubbish. Ah well. Something else to grind through the re-write mill! Publish Post

Origin Screening

2010-08-04T10:53:00.005+01:00

Wednesday 21st July saw me merrily making my way down to London for the Cast and Crew screening of Origin, Danny Stack's fantastic short film.

It's been about ten years since I've been to the Big City and I was just a wee bit nervous.

I discovered that there is a weird time somewhere in the middle of the night/early morning called 5am and not really knowing what to do with it, I found myself still asleep for the first part of the journey. As soon as I opened the front door, a torrential downpour of rain began but I courageously managed to fight my way to the bus stop. I grabbed some supplies and a book from somewhere and found myself on the correct train,
happily drifting to a semi-aware state of consciousness just in time for the first visit of the refreshment trolley somewhere around Arbroath.

Arriving at Kings Cross around 3pm, I somehow managed to blunder in all the right directions and got to my hotel.

The screening itself was just brilliant. Taking place at Working Title Films, Danny and his wife Jo had organised lovely food and drinks and made everyone feel so welcome.

After everyone had arrived and relaxed, we went into the screening where Danny did an excellent job of thanking everyone and introducing the film.

The film was splendid, moving, and a joy to watch. If you ever get the chance to see it an upcoming festival – please do.

I met some fab people to whom I wibbled senselessly at (including James Moran and Jason Arnopp, Sam Morrison) as well as loads of other lovely folks too including Robert Yates and Hilary Wright.

I have no idea how I got back to the hotel that evening – I was buzzing so much. Luckily the Gods of Transport and Blundering Idiots must have been looking favourably upon me that night and took pity on me.

Next day, I had a Tweetup with Jason, a jolly nice and smashing chap who not only let me play with his iPad, but bought me lunch too! It was lovely to finally meet up with him.

The rest of the day was filled with gaping happily out of the train window and trying to guess when the next trolley run would be. By the time I got back at about 9:15pm – I was so tired I was even more incoherent than usual and basically fell into bed as soon as I got home.

First Draft Finished!

2010-06-08T10:16:00.004+01:00

I've just this second finished the first draft of Changing of the Guard. Well, I actually finished it about half an hour then spent the intervening time panicking when Movie Outline 3 decided to 'lose' it and insisted on showing 115 pages of blankness. The air, as well as the screen was blue, I can tell you!

Tuesday - 1, Magz - 0

It did, however, finally decide to return it in it's entirety but not before my stress levels made an impressive dent in the roof. Several times.

Anyway, the really odd thing is, that when I exported it to Final Draft 8, it only comes out at 92 pages. Never mind though. The ultimate page count will no doubt change drastically during the following re-writes.

So, I'm going to leave it for a little bit and concentrate on getting Retribution finally done and dusted as well as the comedy project thingy.

So, lots to do. Let the scribblings commence once more!

*STOP PRESS*

Having written the above at 10:16, it's now 11:13.
I've just found out that the above script, which began life as a 15 page competition entry has reached the semi-final!

Chuffed to bits!

**UPDATE**

Eventually it made the final 10! Happy! I plan to start on the 2nd Draft as soon as I finish with my Red Planet Prize entry.

What's been happening...

2010-06-06T12:01:00.000+01:00

Have passed the 90 page mark of my first screenplay! Ohhh! It's just at the first draft stage but seems to be coming along nicely. I'm actually looking forward to the rewrites too.

This years Red Planet competition details have been announced - so that's definitely something to keep an eye on! Go and check it out now!

In other news, I'm working on something I'm not allowed to talk about - but tis very exciting! Not sure whether anything will come of it, but great fun to have a bash for anyway!

Gosh I love this writing lark!

Vague

2010-06-01T09:55:00.000+01:00

I seem to be going through a patch of vagueness at the moment. Not really getting anywhere...
I'm probably going to refocus for a bit and concentrate solely on getting some nice, decent pieces together rather than lots of little bits here, there and everywhere.
However, on a good point, I'm now on page 81 of the 1st draft of the screenplay. Loads of work to do on it, but the general bits are sort of falling into place. I think.
Also, working on a 6 part comedy thingie - tis a collaborative project, which I've never done before and is rather exciting! Loads and loads and loads of work to do on that.
The backburner project (which has been kicking around since last year and was my first project,) is rumbling around in the back of my head again and trying to squeeze itself out. I have a vague plan of what I want to do with that... Maybe.

My Printer Hates Me.

2010-05-12T11:47:00.000+01:00

My printer hates me. It has obviously joined forces with the toaster (which takes an evil delight at spitting my toast out onto the floor whenever I turn my back on it for a second. It never does it when I'm ready and waiting though - oh no.)

Like the toaster, this printer does whatever it can to annoy me. It flashes up 'low ink' warnings when I know I've just put in a new cartridge. It gobbles said ink up with a devilish hunger. It prints things squint when it knows I'm just about to actually run out of ink and a deadline is approaching and it makes paper just disappear. Grrrr.

That is all.

Move along.

New Things

2010-04-12T09:48:00.000+01:00

Twelve days and thirty one pages into Script Frenzy and it's not going too badly. I decided to combine a current competition with in which you have to write the first fifteen pages using a specific logline. It's not the sort of thing I'd normally go for, but it's always good to have a bash at something that's out of your comfort zone - whatever the result, it's all good practice.

Went to the cinema again yesterday (twice so far this year!) Quite incredible. Love the old 3D lark.

My poor first script is getting shoved to the back yet again. I really have to whack that into some sort of order soon.

Other than that, 'tis just a case of plodding on.

It's not April Yet!

2010-03-29T10:52:00.005+01:00

All morning I've been convinced that it's April 1st today, which of course, it isn't.

Had a great weekend. Went to Conpulsion in Edinburgh, car didn't break down, ate a years worth of junk food and met up with loads of lovely folks who I haven't seen in far too long a time.
Nearly fell over at the prices of liquidy delights. Getting a round and still having change took a bit of getting used to I can tell you. Obviously I had to take full advantage of the situation and even partook of a couple of delightful cocktails. Mmmmm cocktails....

Lot's of Dark Harvest posters were given out, so the publicity monster has now been unleashed and will hopefully trample all over every major city, trashing every high rise building and bridge in it's path... sorry, getting carried away a tad there.

You can take a sneaky peak at the web site here.
Go on - you know you want to...

Other news is that I've been shortlisted for Best Script (Short film) at the End of the Pier International Film Festival! A lovely and unexpected boost!

Script Frenzy.

2010-03-26T09:29:00.003Z

It's that time of year again for Script Frenzy. For anyone not aware of what it is, basically, during April, from the 1st to the 30th you aim to write a 100 page script. There are no prizes, just a splendid motivation for like minded folks to just get down and write.
If this tickles your fancy, go and take a scoobies over at their web site - but you'll have to hurry - it all kicks off on Monday.

I was too late finding out about it last year, however, I might just have a bash this time.
If anything, it'll be a good focus. Not sure what I'll do though - I've got several ideas, and it really is about time I settled down to do a feature.

In other news, I finished the Dark Harvest Website yesterday, barring the odd tweak or two. Tis an exciting project! Details will follow at the weekend when it gets pre-launched!

Speaking of which, I'm heading off to Edinburgh on Saturday! Yay!

Submissions, Web Sites and Sandwiches.

2010-03-23T17:37:00.004Z

Unsurprisingly, the 'quick look over' of the short story submission this morning took about two and a half hours. I really should know that by now. Anyhoo, did several last minute changes and re-scribbles then just hit the 'send' button and be done with the little blighter. Not holding my breath though.

Had a good meeting via Skype regarding the Dark Harvest web site, which is coming along nicely. The front cover is simply gorgeous! Got until Saturday to get that all sparkly and ready.

On a completely different topic, I watched 'Doom' at the weekend and most enjoyable it was too! And I don't care if I've just lost loads of street-cred points because I don't care. I liked it. So there.

Got to love that bargain bin!

But what about the sandwiches? I hear you cry. Well, I ate them.

National Goof Off Day!

2010-03-22T09:15:00.003Z

Yes! It's National Goof Off Day - Even though I haven't actually heard of it until about 3 minutes ago, I can say with honesty it is quite rapidly becoming my favourite holiday other than Christmas.

A day when I can actually not do all the things I'm meant to do and not feel guilty! Huzzah!

Unfortunately it does come at the beginning of a busy week where I need to finish off the Dark Harvest web site, work on a rewrite and submit a short story not to mention create a fabulous wasp costume from super glue, yellow ribbon and various random bits of fluff.

I love my life!

Time Wasting

2010-03-13T09:48:00.002Z

Ughh! After the initial promising step of firing up Final Draft and opening up the rewrite I'm working on, so far I've filled the last hour making tea, staring blankly at my screen, getting diverted by all the lovely distractions the interwebby can throw at me, making more tea, and spotting things I need to tidy up.

And now, I've just been informed that my laptop needs to restart to install vital updates. I fear the Demons of Anti-Writing are pitched against me this day. However, I shall take great delight in poking them in the eye and telling them to sod off -

- after I've rebooted, made some more tea, emptied the dishwasher and contemplated the dust that has settled on the script in the meantime...

First Pay Cheque!

2010-03-02T10:39:00.004Z

Excitement!

I've just this very minute received my first ever shiny pay cheque for a piece of writing!

WOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!

Oh, I feel like a proper writer now!

I must celebrate immediately with the vast consumption of tea and biscuits!

Beware the Procrastination Monster!

2010-03-02T10:22:00.003Z

I thought my current dose of procrastination was only centred on a particular piece of writing I'm struggling with just now.

However, it also seems to be including a decent blog post and my laundry...

Shiny New Web InterWebby Site

2010-02-18T16:05:00.003Z

I decided to finally get round to doing a nice site for myself, with links to all the various places that I lurk around in (including this one.)

I took a chance too and included some of the scripts I've done so far... whether this is a good idea or not remains to be seen, however, I decided to shake my grubby little fist in the face of terror and launch myself into the public domain. Oh, I feel all vulnerable and scared now!

So, here it is....

Behold! My Shiny New InterWebby Thingy

Please vote for my submission on Talenthouse

2010-02-04T09:48:00.000Z

Please vote for my submission on Talenthouse

You don't have to mind.... unfortunately I just noticed that it's by text only (therefore has a small charge - bit miffed about that, thought it was direct via the site.)

VOTE FOR ME!!! PLEASE!!!!

Heehee - only if you think it merits it though!

If you think it's rubbish - just move along. :D

Drop

2010-01-29T15:02:00.003Z

Just watched 'Drop' a short film by Gavin Toomey. It's a wonderful short film starring Russell Tovey & Antony Edridge and you should go and have a look at it right now!

I've spoken to Gavin a few times over on Twitter and he's a really nice chap who also writes and directs jolly good films.

First Pitch

2010-01-26T21:01:00.002Z

Ohh! I've just sent off my first proper pitch!

Scary!

Exciting!

I don't hold out much hope, but what a fun way to start! The pitch was for a 25 minute audio over at Big Finish. (An opportunity that I have no doubt will be sought after by everyone and their budgie - and rightly so!)

Chilly Fridays

2010-01-08T12:47:00.005Z

2009-12-31T16:59:00.005Z

Only a few hours to go until this decade grinds itself to a close and a bright, shiny new one begins!

What a year it's been. This time last year, I was just about to begin an exciting, scribbly new adventure and thought I would give writing a serious try.
Since then, I've written six scripts for practice. I wrote a trial short story and was thrilled to get an Honourable Mention. I've won a short script competition but didn't make the grade in two others - and however disappointing, hasn't put me off! Tis all part of the experience (the majority of it by everything I've learned from other and better writers!
Through the wonderful interwebbyness, I've got back in touch with some old friends and made some lovely new ones.
A few months ago, I was given the opportunity to write a short story for an amazing new RPG game which will be published next year and I shall insist that you all buy it as soon as it's available or else I shall personally come over and taunt you. YES YOU!
I even got off my beloved sofa and made my way to Dundee to attend one of the BBC Writer's Room Roadshows - and that for such a lazy bugger as myself is quite an achievement, I can tell you!

So, next year who knows what will happen?

Plans so far include:

Get more disciplined and write tons more stuff till I've got some decent material to try and convince some hapless agent to take me on. This includes rewriting and polishing things I've already done.
Increase my contribution to a couple of sites that I've shamefully been a little tardy with.
Enter loads more competitions.
Bombard the BBC Writer's Room till they either flee in terror from me or take me on!
Watch loads more telly - I mean *cough* 'Research'.

Have a tonload to learn but I plan to enjoy every, scribbly minute of it!

Hope you all have a most fab and fluffy New Year!

Short Stories

2009-11-25T16:05:00.003Z

I finished the second draft of the short story today. Yay! I also wrote out the descriptions for two illustrations that are going to be included with the story in the book! How exciting is that!!!!
I used to dabble a little in drawing and painting myself and that was what I had always seen myself as doing, unfortunately I was a little bit rubbish at it, so I didn't really get anywhere with that!
It feels a little odd really, knowing that someone else is going to do some pics for my story!
Each of the pieces that will be included in the RPG book will get two illustrations so I'm really looking forward to seeing the finished product!!! So I await with quivering anticipation to see what it's all going to look like!

Roadshows, Toilets and Warm Wine.

2009-11-09T21:01:00.018Z

I had a great time at the BBC Writer's Room Road show with surprisingly few bothersome moments. I'm not going to mention the astonishment I felt at the obvious forward thinking of our local City Council with the introduction of uni-sex toilets in our train station at the very beginning of my epic journey. They were all shiny and modern and I'm not ashamed to admit I was getting all excited about the sparkly luxury of them until I realised I'd ended up in the Gents by accident. Last time that happened at least I had a decent excuse - it was dark and one wooden toilet block looks very much like all the others in the desert...

Moving swiftly on but with the recent memory of being unable to locate the correct gender facilities burning in my brain, I did manage to get on the right train, which was a considerable relief, as I had half expected to end up in Inverness rather than my destination of choice. Not that there's anything wrong with Inverness, far from it, just that it would have meant me travelling in the opposite direction than intended which would have resulted in a major travel fail.
Following on quickly after that dizzying triumph was the fact that I didn't fall asleep and miss Dundee station either (yes, I know many would regard this as a failing.) Just joking Dundee - I love you to bits!

I arrived in good time, with just over an hour to spare before the Road show began, so my plan was to find somewhere all nice, writery and intellectual where I could pose around, look cool and have some food. However after getting unexpectedly trapped in the Overgate Shopping Centre for about half an hour, I skulked into a Pizza Hut I discovered just around the corner from the Caird Hall and ordered my usual pepperoni with extra cheese. The waiter returned shortly after to apologised that the white wine I had ordered was non-chilled. I think I shocked him slightly by my unashamed defiance of convention and told him I didn't mind just get me the wine! NOW! (Actually I just smiled sweetly and he seemed happy in the knowledge that I was some uncultured wine-heathen probably too desperate to sue in the face of my need for some good old Dutch courage.) "But Magz, why didn't you just order a cheeky little Red?" I hear you cry. Well, I'm glad you asked as the answer is simple. I didn't want to run the risk of the dreaded red lips and having Auntie Beeb think I was some alchy writer wanna-be. One must try not to advertise these things for the sake of one's possible future career. When I have made my fame and fortune then I shall be more than happy to prance around with vino stained chops.

I was quite amazed and to find the Caird Hall roughly in the place I was expecting it to be - thanks to the wonders of Google Streetview. Before leaving the house, I had carefully studied my route from station to destination, however, for some reason loads of cars kept honking at me as I carefully and religiously followed the big white line down the centre of the road as per the onscreen instructions.

The Road show itself was very good and consisted of general advice on what the Writer's Room looks for in the scripts they receive, as well as what they are not looking for! The presentation was informative and friendly and had a good attendance with lots of serious looking writers which made me want to scamper away and hide. It also covered the 'Scotland Writes' competition, with a good amount of time for questions and answers to follow. At one point, one of the chaps from the Beeb (I do apologise for forgetting your name sir!) mentioned a similar event with RTD (Russell T Davis) and I only narrowly prevented my inner fan-girl from leaping around and doing embarrassing things. Twas a struggle though.

I arrived back at the station with about 20 minutes to spare before the next train was due, which turned out to be from Plymouth. Not that that has any relevance whatsoever, I just felt the need to add that delightful little detail for you, my dear reader. Yes - for you! So what else could I do but partake of a nice glass of wine, chilled this time you will be relieved to know, from the station bar while I waited? I decided to accept the offered receipt in the pretence that I was a grown up on a business trip and not just desperate for some booze.

All in all, the event was friendly and useful, even though it did send me rushing home to do a rapid re-write on my now meagre-seeming and feeble competition entry and apart from waiting for about 45 minutes for a bus home after I left the station, it was a jolly splendid little outing!

On Track...

2009-10-13T12:50:00.006+01:00

I'm off to exotic Dundee tomorrow for the BBC Writer's Room Roadshow.
I've got my train tickets and I am really really going try to remember to take them with me.
Assuming I manage to get there and back without incident, I shall bore you all with the details of my epic journey in a later post, in all it's grim detail. (What do you mean you don't want to know what type of sandwich I had or how long it took me to find the Caird Hall! Twill all be the most gripping stuff you know!)
My original plan was to take along my shiny, finished and polished script for the 'Scotland Writes' competition and hand it in in person. However, after having given long and careful thought to that plan I decided it would be better to wait until after the Roadshow. I would like to make it clear that it has nothing to do with the fact that I may or may not have failed to have finished, let alone scrubbed and polished it yet. Honest. *cough*
Anyway, if anyone else is going along too, please come over and say hi!
(I'll be the one not wearing sunglasses and looking lost and bewildered in the corner.)

Heating Up

2009-09-13T09:00:00.005+01:00

Had a really good week. I sent off the first draft of a short piece of fiction I'm doing for a really cool new RPG Sourcebook - can't say what it's about or anything yet - but the whole thing is great and when it comes everyone and their budgie MUST buy it! I have a few little tweaks to do to the story which won't take long and will hopefully improve it.

I got some really good and positive feedback for one of my short scripts 'What Laura Wants' from Graeme over at Beautiful Train which really gave me a huge boost. I'm really grateful to him for taking the time to read it.

I've also been invited by the guys over at Scripped.com to write regular articles for them! I mean how exciting is all this?!!!

Also ticking away is both the spec outline and series outline for 'Swings & Roundabouts' which I'm entering into the BBC Scotland Writes competition. Which reminds me, I still have to book my train tickets for the BBC Writer's Room Roadshow thingy. Must do that. In fact, I must really get on and do all those other things too!

Took some time out yesterday to go to the RAF Leuchars Airshow which was SO much fun. Unfortunately, I didn't anticipate the sun shining and it being warm and I now resemble Lobstra - the giant mutant city-stomping Lobster. There's nothing quite so awe-inspiring as seeing a Lancaster bomber escorted by a Spitfire and a Hurricane as they fly amazingly close by. There were also loads of hot pilots wondering around too when they weren't doing really cool flying stuff.

The Vulcan bomber was jaw droppingly graceful for all it's enormous size - truly astounding, not to mention all the hot pilots there were, sitting casually on their massive bombers.

I took loads of photos but most ended up as completely dull and plane-less blue skies, or just little black blobs in the distance.

And there was pizza. And planes. Oh and did I mention all the hot pilots?

I'm going to have a lie down now.

Mmmmmmmm hot pilots......

Back to Work!

2009-09-03T15:39:00.007+01:00

After all the recent excitement of the last week, it's time to buckle down again and get working on the BBC Scotland Writes competition. I've now got about 90% of the outline done and am now fleshing it all out ready to get onto the actual fun stuff!

I've also had my place at the Dundee Roadshow confirmed so must now remember to actually book my train ticket....

First Dose of Critisism.

2009-09-02T15:01:00.003+01:00

I just read a rather less than encouraging comment about my script. The author wasn't being particularly nasty or anything, but did severely criticise it, saying it wasn't worthy of even an honorary mention, let alone winning.

I felt really horrible when I read it and it really brought me down from an otherwise really happy time. However, it did start me thinking that this is another aspect of this whole writing thing that I realised I hadn't actually been prepared for.

I have long been prepared for rejection and having work returned, but to be honest, I hadn't really thought about people outwardly criticising what I've done.

I realise that it's all an important part of the job as it were, and although I personally would never speak ill of anyone's work, I guess it's just something that everyone who embarks on this sort of career just has to accept and deal with.

Not easy though.... it's obviously something I'm going to have to work on :)

Gosh! I feel like a proper writer now!

Fame!

2009-09-02T10:38:00.002+01:00

Ohhh!!!! I'm tremendously excited!

Look! I made the front page of Lalawag today!!!!

Exciting!

2009-08-29T13:07:00.004+01:00

You remember that competition I was in the final held by Scripped.com? Well, blow me down with a feather duster, if I didn't just go and win it!

I'm chuffed to bits to say the least and have probably bored everyone on the planet already in my excitement!

I was planning to put the prize money towards a shiny new Mac book, however they are rather pricey. I need to get some serious work done I think before I can afford one of those! However - all something to strive for! It's given me a real boost considering this was the first script I've submitted to a competition. Maybe there's hope for me yet!

I've also finished the proofreading I was doing - I really enjoy that. I've also been asked to do a short story for it which I'm about two thirds of the way through. Hopefully it will be good enough for inclusion - however, if not, it's all good. It means I have had some more valuable writing practice and had a pile of fun along the way!

Other news this week - I've booked a place for myself for the BBC Writers Room Roadshow which is visiting Dundee on October 14th. I'm hoping I'll hear back from them soon confirming my place so I can go ahead and book my train ticket.

I couldn't get to Frightfest in London, however I have been enjoying catching up with some scary flix on Film4's Frightfest season which they're running at the moment. I really am horribly behind on my movies! Last night I watched The Descent, on my own, dark room with headphones on.

Bad move.

I think it's actually the first film that has made me actually yelp out loud and nearly jump a mile at one point!
Afterwards I was desperate to get some nerve calming booze, however the only alcohol in the house was unfortunately in the cold, dark cellar and there was no way I was going down there!!!!

Swings N Roundabouts

2009-08-21T15:56:00.000+01:00

I can officially call myself a writer!!!

Today I got my first 'rejection' letter. The first script I'd sent to the the BBC Writer's Room was returned this morning - however, you know - I'm OK about it!

Obviously I'm a wee bit disappointed, however, it's all part of the job and right from the beginning I was determined to never to be put off by what, let's face it, would be inevitable for a vast amount of submissions.

So instead of getting all down about it, I see it as a positive step - I sat down, wrote something (which I'm still proud of) and actually sent it off. Now, I have a script which I can still use, adapt, and most importantly - have learned from!

Let's face it - it may be the first - but it certainly won't be the last!

In a Sate of Disbelief!

2009-08-18T17:43:00.002+01:00

Blimey!!!!!

I just got notified that I'm one of the five finalists in a competition I entered!

The competition was over at Scripped.com.

This is the first actual script writing competition I've entered! To be honest I didn't think I stood an evil monkey's chance in somewhere not very monkey friendly!

I was so sure to be honest, that I'd already adapted it into a 5 episode series for another competition!

I don't seriously believe that I'm going to get any further but I am SOOOO amazed and chuffed to bits to be an actual finalist that I'm shaking!!!

Tesco 3 Bottles For a Tenner - here I come!!!!!

Summer's Plan

2009-08-01T15:58:00.002+01:00

The other day I happened to fall upon a rather excellent opportunity - a competition by those frightfully helpful chaps over at the BBC Writer's Room.

As I was having a look through their site for any currently available opportunities, one in particular leapt right out at me. It's a scriptwriting competition designed for those living or were born in Scotland! Yay! Tick that box!

Downside is, I plan to use something that I've recently sent in for another US competition (deadline 8th Aug). That particular one was limited to 10 pages, however as I was writing it, I realised there was so much more I could do with it. I wrote it over two days and to be honest the subject was one that didn't have much interest to me when I first read about the theme of the US competition.
The idea though came in a flash and I felt that lovely warm feeling you get when you suddenly jump on a new idea.

This new competition is looking for the first script and outline for a series/serial and so yesterday, I spent the day drafting out the first outline for a 5 episode serial . I'm really excited about it and hope that I don't win that other comp now (not that there is much chance of that to be honest).)

I'll keep you posted about how things go. The deadline for the Scottish competition is November and I'm just itching to get dug in and expand it!

Fame at Last!

2009-07-10T14:24:00.000+01:00

Blimey! How cool is this!

(OK – I know it’s a bit of a cheat on my count – but hey! I’m tremendously excited about it!)

Many congrats to Danny Stack who actually did all the hard work though!

Remember to check out the Origin Website. It’s a brilliant short film and it’s been a really fantastic opportunity to see the whole process of how a script makes it to the screen.

So check it out!

Right now!

Projects Gallore!

2009-07-08T08:39:00.001+01:00

Currently writing some reviews for ‘The Couch Potatoe’ – a media blog I contribute to. Lots of fun and a great excuse to sit down with some DVDs waiting from the ‘To Be Watched’ pile.

I’ve also been asked to proof read and look over an exciting new RPG (Role Playing Game) that is to be released soon so I’m really looking forward to that.

New Work Space!

2009-07-08T08:24:00.004+01:00

The other day, just after I’d tripped over the pile of dictionaries/thesauruses and other such tomes, I nearly completely knackered my laptop screen while proof reading a script, I decided that I really needed a dedicated area to work in.

After a while mulling over the problem, I decided to rearrange the furniture, taking the large computer desk (which I’d been using as a craft area in the bedroom) downstairs to the dining room freeing up my old faithful original comp desk to be used as a writing desk. My hope is to find a really nice second hand/antique one eventually however, this will do for the moment

Printy Time

2009-06-29T19:36:00.001+01:00

There’s something amazingly satisfying when you actually print off a shiny new script. Even though it’s really just for the first draft and to go over it with a big red pen. Just printed of the first draft of ‘The Journal’. I’m going to be changing that title though – I know what it will be called so I’ll change it at the end.

Its really nice to actually feel those pages – gives a real sense of achievement.

And so very annoying when the ink runs out….

Acknowledgement!

2009-06-25T08:23:00.001+01:00

A postcard from the BBC Writers Room has just this very moment arrived in the post acknowledging that they have received the script I sent! I’m all excited not, not to mention being filled with horror that I really did send it in and that someone has actually seen it!

It’s a 15 page short, light hearted horror(ish) called ‘Terms & Conditions’.

I honestly don’t expect to hear any more about it – but you know what? I feel really good that I’ve actually gone and sent something in!

I feel all proper now!

Second Away!

2009-06-16T15:04:00.000+01:00

Yay! Sent off second project to the BBC Writersroom this morning. A fifteen page short film, so we’ll see how things go. To be honest, I’m not really expecting anything, however it’s good practice. I’m trying to set myself little deadlines and it’s always a good feeling to actually complete something solid.

I downloaded a really handy little book called ‘Making It As A Screenwriter’ by Adrian Mead. Really worth getting – loads of practical advice about stuff everyone expects you to know already! Totally recommend it

Shorty Project

2009-06-12T08:57:00.001+01:00

Pushed on yesterday and finished the little shorty project (Terms & Conditions) . Yay! Just printed it out for checking. Reading it on screen, I find I often miss glaringly obvious mistake which leap out when on an actual page!

I’ve also decided something too – I’m can officially call myself a ’screen writer’ the moment I get my first rejection letter!

On track for 15 pages

2009-06-11T11:51:00.000+01:00

Almost finished the first draught of a little project called 'Terms & Conditions' that I plan to send in to the BBC Writer’s Room. Well – got to keep plugging away!

Scary Bananas!Ret

2009-06-01T10:09:00.000+01:00

EEEEEEPPPPPP!!!!!!!!!

I’ve done it! I’m not long back from a trip to the Post Office to send off the first ever thing I’ve ever sent off!!!!

I’d planned to get it off on Friday, but when I printed out the treatment and first 10 pages of the script, I noticed so many things that I hadn’t noticed on screen that I literally spent most of the morning and afternoon fixing them. I also did a few last minute changes to the script – taking out a couple scenes that suddenly didn’t seem to be needed.

One of the problems I had, was trying to figure out how to present it all. It seems to be a basic thing that everone seems to think that everyone knows already – so, I’ve sort of played it by ear by what little info I did manage to glean and just…

So, I’ve already probably annoyed people who may see it with my obviously blatant ignorance. Will most likely be a case of ‘Straight to bin you incompetant foollish wannabe!!! Begone! And never grace my desk again with your drivel!”

I need a nice cup of tea now…

Cover Letter

2009-05-28T13:59:00.000+01:00

Right, done it – very short and completely crap.

I hate this first cover letter.

Bahh!

The time has come...

2009-05-28T12:51:00.000+01:00

…. to stop farting around and get on with it!

I’ve set myself a deadline and that deadline is tomorrow. ( May 29th)

Tomorrow I send off the Treatment and first few pages of the script.

I’m currently at an absolute loss as to what to put in the cover letter though. I have no experience, but I don’t want that to go against me right from the start…. so, I think I’m just going to keep it as brief and bare as possible.

I’m actually feeling sick at the thought of actually sending this away. It’s a really weird feeling, however, the more I whack them off the easier it’ll get I suppose. I can just imagine myself making absolutely every mistake in the book….

… oh well….

Right – stop putting it off Magz!!!! GET ON WITH IT!!!!!!

Happy Birthday To Me!

2009-05-27T09:52:00.000+01:00

Happy Birthday to Me!
Happy Birthday to Me!
Happy Birthday dear Magzeeee
Happy Birthday to Me!

Yay!

Bring me wine! Bring me pizza!

Treatments & Tribulations

2009-05-22T16:16:00.000+01:00

Finally finished the Treatment! YAY! Fly the flags!

Then discovered at rather excellent web site that has a whole bundle of info about how to write one! DOH!

The site in question is rather cunningly called Writing Treatments. It tells you all the basic stuff you need to know – the sort of info that everyone seems to take for granted but is a bit of a mystery to timid little new writers like myself… at least I assume that’s the case – maybe it’s just me who doesn’t know after all!!!!

Well, when I say finished....

2009-05-18T09:54:00.000+01:00

I opened up the old scriptorama again the other day after leaving it for a few days, and after having a couple of new ideas and additions which came to me at around 4:30 am (as they do) I’ve been doing a few more tweaks and small changes – behold the joys of Draft 5!!!!

I also bought some scary envelopes from Tesco the other day….

I know you can email submissions and stuff in however, there’s nothing quite like the feel of the printed page, and the satisfaction that I’ve given someone, somewhere the option of chucking something solid into the bin rather than just a boring and often quite unfulfiling press of the delete button! See how generous I am?!

So – I actually felt rather nervous about buying those envelopes because they mean that I’m really going to do this and start opening myself up for countless demoralising rejections – but hey, so?

I’m working now on the treatment as required by the first place I have my eye set on for sending it to – goodness knows why I’m doing the treatment now – I’ve been sort of working on it during the whole thing…. (probably completely the wrong way of going about it mind – however, seems to work for me so far….)

I’ve also been trying to find the correct method of presenting UK scripts – I’m probably not looking in the right places, but I’m stuffed up with the cold too at the moment and so I’m not really thinking clearly… (HA! That’s a joke for anyone who knows me for the true dozey dunderhead that is my usual self!)

So far, I’ve come to a wild conclusion that it’s best to use one of those brass fold back clippy brad-type things…. I think. If anyone knows the correct way – well, I’d be grateful if you’d point me in the right direction!

Right – better get back to that Treatment now…

First One Down

2009-05-05T15:47:00.000+01:00

Finished the 4th and final draft this afternoon! I’ve no idea whether it’s any good or not – but it eventually went to 61 pages.

Time for a celebratory drink and a sandwich I think!

Almost There...

2009-04-23T12:40:00.001+01:00

Just about finished the 3rd Draft of Retribution. Tweeking and polishing all over the place. I’m not going to look at it today – will do one final check on it tomorrow – then hopefully that will be it!

Got several more projects all lined up in a nice and orderly way!

Have pulled one out (this one is for a short film) and have made a nice, shiney new file for it. I’m currently scribbling out the outline for it even as we speak!

Yay!

Tuesday News!

2009-04-14T08:43:00.001+01:00

Yesterday, I was feeling a bit rubbish – not very confident etc. “I can’t write, I’m rubbish etc etch Blah Blah” as everyone does…*grin*

However, last month I entered my 2nd writing contest (for once, NOT being put off by not getting anywhere on the first time!)

WordHustler ran a competition in March for in which you had to write an essay about ‘Why I Write,’ so I had a bash at it.

This morning I got an email saying I had received an Honourable Mention. At first I just thought – ‘Ah well,’ that’s probably a mass email sent out to everyone who entered. When I actually re-read it – I found out that there are 3 winners and only SIX Honourable Mentions!

I am CHUFFED to bits to say the least!

First Draft Is....

2009-04-07T15:39:00.000+01:00

…. FINISHED!!!!! WOOOT!!!!

I’ve actually finished the first draft!!!!!!!

Outlines

2009-04-04T11:56:00.000+01:00

I decided this morning that I really did need to have a solid outline for one of my main projects – so – with a wave of my fairy wand – ’tis done! I’ve just finished it and I’m pretty happy with it. It’s already solved a couple of problems.!

Can’t wait to just get on with the writing now!!! Brilliant

Ticking Along

2009-04-04T09:31:00.000+01:00

Things are ticking along nicely. Working away at several projects and I’m generally having a blast! Even if nothing ever comes out of any of it – it’ll still be worth it!

Oh! Must tell you. Weird dream the other night! I guess it was my first ’script related’ dream - I had taken one of my scripts along to the BBC (as you do!) and everyone was very nice and busy and they seemed very keen that I was there. They let me watch the filming of some police drama thingie (?) Next thing, the lady in charge who had shown me around earlier was holding all these pink pages and crying saying she just couldn’t do the script. (Maybe this is me telling myself it’s a bit rubbish! ) Anyway I was trying to convince her to go ahead and was worried about what two of the main characters would think and how upset they’d be. Next thing – there they are. Just watching in the background. Then I think everyone turned into Tellytubbies or something.

I think I may need help…

Rewrites

2009-03-25T00:41:00.000Z

Isn’t isn’t it amazing just how many little tiny tweeks you can make at 00:40 in the morning ?

More Scribblings

2009-03-19T10:24:00.000Z

Looking forward to another day of writing. Hopefully get stuck in soon…

Kicking Into Gear...Hopefully!

2009-03-18T18:23:00.001Z

Started work on my new script today. I’ve been doing some background and thinking for a while now, however today I finally kicked it into gear. Got 7 pages done. I’m quite excited about this project. Hopefully it’ll be a good one….

Competition Results

2009-03-06T10:47:00.000Z

Ok – well, I didn’t get anywhere with the competition – but that’s ok. For once it hasn’t put me off

All good practice and much fun along the way

10 Pages!

2009-03-04T16:42:00.000Z

Woot! I’ve done 10 whole lovely pages of script!

Pondering and Thinking...

2009-02-25T17:06:00.000Z

… but not actually DOING much. I’m still reading ‘A Writer’s Tale’ (yes – I’m a slow reader!) and thoroughly enjoying it.

I’ve started 3 scripts with a fourth hovering on the backburner. I’ve been toying with combining two of them into one of the other scripts… but I think I’ll keep them seperate… maybe. Gahh! Indecision!

Yesterday (or was it the day before – can’t remember) upon visiting Danny Stack’s spiffing blog – it’s got loads of great advice and stuff, I noticed that he is trying to raise funds for the making of a short film. In return, he’s giving away copies of his script, useful info, video diary etc which is just such a brilliant opportunity to see how the whole process works – especially for frightened little newcomers like me! So – go take a look and give him all your dosh!

Apart from updating ‘My Other Blog’ and a casual glance through one of my projects (going to have to start giving them names… well, actually they do have names - but I’m not telling you. So there!) I have achieved remarkably little today…

Reading Time!

2009-02-23T15:16:00.000Z

My books have just arrived! Can’t wait to start reading!

Jumping In!

2009-02-18T13:19:00.000Z

I submitted a short story yesterday for a competition…. I think I may have been a bit too hasty though as I think I should have spent a little more time working on it – however, me being of the ‘jump in without thinking’ type, just threw something together and sent it in, knowing full well that I’d have a bucketload of interruptions etc….

Ah well – never mind. Was still fun to do…

Little Steps

2009-02-16T19:04:00.000Z

I just went online and ordered a copy of this year’s ‘Writers’ & Artists’ Yearbook‘! I’m all excited now! I also bought a book about Script Dialogue – so can’t wait to start reading!

Bit More Progress

2009-02-16T15:51:00.000Z

Yay! Four pages of new project done !

Has to be a good day! It’s flowing a bit better now, but is basically a bit rubbish. But I don’t care Not yet anyway

MUST MUST MUST do other project thingy – that’s VITAL.

Well it’s not vital in a world shattering way – but it’s the one thing that I’m hoping will actually do something for me…

I’m talking crap aren’t I…?!

New Project

2009-02-12T17:21:00.000Z

Got an idea the other day for a small drama and began the script today. I’ve also got the gist of Episode 2 of my other small TV project. I’m not sure which one to make Ep1 now…

So – plan is…. work on those two projects and complete them, then… find an agent.

LOL! Yeah – like that’s ever going to happen!

First Page!

2009-01-30T16:06:00.000Z

I’ve just written the first page!!! I have no idea if it’s correct or good or rubbish or if I’m doing it right at all – but I’ve written it!

I wonder how many times it will change before I finally scrap it! :D

First Project!

2009-01-29T14:05:00.000Z

Exciting!

I’m just about to start on my first project. I’m probably aiming a little high – however, it will all add to the learning experience one way or another.

It’s a TV screenplay. A short drama to be a bit less vague.

I’ve just opened some shiney new files all ready and waiting for the Outline notes, Characters and my nice new shiney Script writing softwear!

Isn’t it exciting just looking at that fresh, empty page – not quite knowing where it’s going to lead?!

Right – now I’m off to do some work!

Head Fog!

2009-01-23T13:40:00.000Z

Gaahh!!!! My head is mince. MINCE!

Can’t seem to pin down a single thought, never mind write it down!

I need tea. Lots and lots of tea. Maybe followed by coffee. Then more tea.

Inspiration

2009-01-23T10:34:00.000Z

Isn’t it typical? When I’ve got a spare moment or two to actually sit down and write stuff – nothing comes to mind. Nothing solid anyway. However, as soon as I have other things that I must do, cleaning the house, for example – not because I particularly like cleaning or anything – just when I absolutely have to because I can’t find the floor anymore or something, THAT’S when the urge to scribble becomes overwhelming and loads of ideas, or maybe just one strong one comes barging into my head and I just have to do it!

Oh, I downloaded a script-writing template thingy yesterday. It was quite late so I haven’t had the chance to use it yet … so Yay! New Toy to play with

Happy!

More Ideas

2009-01-21T14:19:00.000Z

Had a few more ideas (bet you couldn’t guess that from the cunningly deceptive post title )

One I’m not too sure whether to run it as a short story or a practice screen play…M

A Slow Day

2009-01-16T16:16:00.000Z

Didn’t get much done yesterday – too much RL stuff getting in the way!

Got several ideas rolling around in my head though – all jumbled up and mashed, but they’re there!

More General Ramblings

2009-01-14T12:15:00.000Z

I’m really amazed already! I’ve had a good few hits on this site already!

Thank you so much to jrotman and Windy Lynn for taking the time to leave lovely comments and give some good advice and helpful links! What a boost! Thank you!

A while ago, I downloaded Writer’s Cafe which I’ve used to work out some plot lines for the forum I mentioned previously.

It’s got some lovely little things in it – you can create unlimited journals for just rambling away at, notebooks for specific projects, a nice little timeline for working out scenes and their positions – you can move them around and jiggle them all over the place, and at the end, it’ll print it all out for you in whatever format you’re doing ie Screenplay, novel etc.

Now, I’ve been looking at it in a whole new light! It’s a great little program and I’m determined to use it to it’s full capability. I love it! Now… if only I could find the button that makes it actually write a best selling article/screenplay/novel/short story… I’m sure it must be hiding in there somewhere….

One of my big problems is that I spend lots of time searching around for lovely tools to use, then I never actually do anything with them! Something that I must change if I want to make a go of this! :)

I also like using smilies a lot too

What I Hope To Do Today

2009-01-13T11:04:00.001Z

Today – I’m going to do a little bit of digging around to find out about submitting articles to various places – you know, magazines, web sites, comics – that sort of thing.

Painfully Boring and Dull First Post

2009-01-13T10:31:00.001Z

Yesterday, I was looking through some helpful web sites trying to get a few pointers in this very large and bewildering new world I’ve decided to step into.

After a short time I began to feel quite frightened! Oh no! There’s all this stuff going on and ‘how to’s’ and ‘What not to do’s’ etc that I thought – “I can’t possibly do this! I have absolutely no experience whatsoever!!! I’d better just give up right now – I don’t stand a chance!”

I began to wonder whether this is just another example of one of my mad, compulsive ideas to be forgotten about as soon as my enthusiasm wears out again.

Well, it might be – I don’t know. It has been floating around in my head for a long time though and so I began to think about why I wanted to scribble away.

I’ve always loved writing little stories and English (along with Art) was one of the few subjects that I really enjoyed at school – mostly the creative side of it though – not the boring grammar and sentence structure etc… (Hmm, perhaps I really should have paid more attention to that now!)

For over a year and a half now I’ve been part of a collaborative writing and RP Forum on the all mighty interwebbyness. I’m not to going to say what it is yet – maybe another day…

Basically it started out as a lot of people writing bits of various ongoing story threads as seen from their character’s points of view based on a popular BBC TV show – there now, that’s a bit of a clue isn’t it?!

Anyway, over the months, most of posters drifted off and so only a few remain. However, I began to find my initial character evolving and my postings becoming more detailed, the plots getting more refined etc to a point that it was really re-awakening my love for writing. Ideas were starting to grow and it was just so enjoyable! (Still is!)

I think that’s when I began to realise just how much I did love it all.

I began to find myself reading a few favoured blogs of ’real’ writers, a couple of which do actually write for the show which inspired our Forum. Gradually I started to really become interested in how they did things, and what it was all about.

I’m still at the very outer edges though – just taking the odd casual, interested peek into what it’s all about and maybe, just maybe, I can concentrate on this.

It always amazes me when other people, some of whom aren’t even threatened by me into actually reading the inane rubbish I spout on my other blog!

The fact that someone, somewhere has taken the time to read my random babblings gives me such a buzz and a boost!

I’ve just realised that there really isn’t a point to this blog post at all! There might have been when I sat down to write it – but whatever it may or may not have been has long gone!

Perhaps there’s no hope for me after all! However, I’ve just spent a good 10 minutes rambling away. I know! I’ll start practicing to be portentous and call it ‘Writing Practice!”

There – that sounds much better now doesn’t it!

Comments Welcome!

2009-01-13T10:00:00.000Z

I forgot to say – that if anyone does happen by here – please feel free to leave comments! I’d love to hear from you!