Watching You

MY RHYMING POEM

Mr. Cops

Sitting with my friend writing in the coffee shop
Brainstorming ideas and smiling at good looking cops
Excuse me, Mr. Cops - but you're so fine and made me look
 I would like to get to know you since you're characters in my book

- Sherry Hill

MY HAIKU

Don't Go

Please don't go quite yet
Watching you makes me smile
Stay for a moment

- Sherry Hill

APPRECIATIONS
I believe it's important to not be so full of ourselves. People help you along the way. So let's not be lazy about giving thanks.

Character Development Teacher - I would like to thank a writing group member for leading a character development session. Because of your helpful hints and handouts, I learned to develop my characters. Now my stories I am writing have more depth, and my characters are more believable.

Z-JOURNAL

I've been watching people lately. I try to observe them in the least creepy way possible. I have always have my journal with me,and I sketch and take notes. I look at what they're wearing, what they're doing, and what they're saying. I hope I'm not staring too much, but I'm just doing research. So if you catch me watching you a bit too closely, be honored. You're probably a character in my book (or it just could be that you're a nice looking man).


TOO MUCH Z-NESS?Do you find yourself getting lazy? Maybe someone called you lazy and that you need to get off your butt. Perhaps you're not accomplishing your goals like you should. Are you blaming the government for everything? Well, it's time for you to tackle your excessive Z-ness. I hope this tip helps you.


Well, I gained a couple of pounds - it was bond to happen because I have this weakness for gelato. That stuff is absolutely delicious! I also haven't been exercising as much as I before. I've gotten lazy, but that's going to change. I need to work on fitness for my appearance, but for my health. It will improve my mind and body for writing and dancing. Here's a tip that I use for exercising - maybe it will work for you.

Tip

I don't have a consistent schedule of exercising in the evening. Why? Because I have plenty of opportunities to make excuses throughout the day. Are you like this? Well, try exercising in the morning.

I've been waking up earlier than usual lately, and I've been doing some exercises. I like to listen to music when getting ready for work, and I dance and practice choreographies. I've also been eating breakfast and that really helps me throughout the day. It makes me feel better, too.

If you're one of those people who are like zombies when waking up earlier, have a set time to exercise. Set up your cellphone to alarm you when it's time.

I don't know what I'm going to do about my gelato habit, though. Maybe separating them into portions would work. Or avoiding the frozen food section when shopping.

THE CHILLING CORNER
Because sometimes you need to chill

Movie 

The Stink of Flesh (2004)

This is a fun and witty low-budget zombie movie that involves sexual experimentation.  It had a weird factor to it. The acting was so bad that it was funny. I like the idea of the main character preferring to use his hammer and nails to kill zombies instead of shooting them. Dottie was my favorite character, and in my opinion, she was the best actress. She was also a weirdiest one.

Books 

For the following books, I received a free digital copy from storycartel.com in exchange for a review.

The Write Practice: 14 Prompts by Joe Bunting

The prompts were excellent, and they gave me something to write about. I like the way Joe Bunting started with a story before introducing the prompt. I particularly liked when he mentioned elements of storytelling. His writing style and advice made me relate to him. Great book.

No Witnesses to Nothing by Garry Rodgers

The book had a great plot. I got the sense that the author was knowledgeable and did research, but the pacing was too slow. I understand that some technical information was necessary, but the book had too much of it. The load of technical information and writing style made the book hard to read. I decided to finish the book because I wanted to see the outcome of the different forces at hand. I like the way the drug problem mixed in with the concept of consciousness. Although the pacing was slow, the book picked up a little at certain chapters. The best chapter was 41. I also enjoyed Professor Sorensen in 43 because he weird, and I can imagine him. This book will probably be a good movie but reading it took extreme patience.

Operation Dinner: How to Plan, Shop & Prep for Easy Family Meals by Lori Loomis
The book was well-organized and concise. Many tips and ideas in this book I've heard before, but the helpful information about meat cuts, meat labeling, cooking methods, and prep made this book unique. I appreciate the simple recipes and access to the meal planning binder sheets. The inventory and shopping list will be beneficial to me as I plan meals.

You Are a Writer (so Start Acting Like One) by Jeff Goins

This book is a good start for writers. Although the information was basic, I found it to be motivating and relevant. I particularly like the section about building a platform. The book is an easy read and Jeff Goins has a conversational style which made me relate to him. I would have like to see more resources, but the ones he mentioned was a good start.

 In Two Weeks by Jen Talty
I enjoyed this book. It was too predictable on what Jared would do in two weeks after he parted from his lover, but the story made me smile. The love scenes were well-written, and I would to read more books by Jen Talty.

Music
"Looking Real Good" by Shotgun Start

This song makes me think of models strutting their stuff at a high energy fashion show.

THE LEARNING CORNER

Vocabulary

osculation

noun

1.

the act of kissing.

2.

a kiss.

3.

close contact.

4.

Geometry . the contact between two osculating curves or the like.

"osculation." Dictionary.com Unabridged. Random House, Inc. 30 May. 2013. <Dictionary.com http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/osculation>.

Sentence

When the gorgeous man entered the room, Pamela had the urge to greet him with osculation.

Learning Moment

 I learned about the steampunk fiction.  A friend explained it to me. It's a subgenre of science fiction inspired by the Victorian/19th century industrialization that features steam-powered machinery . Right now I'm reading a steampunk fiction novel called Boneshaker by Cherie Priest. I'm enjoying it so far. It has zombies!

Help Me to Understand

MY RHYMING POEM

Don't Know What You're Saying

Excuse me, Mr. Zombie, but I just don't know what you're saying
I'm trying to be understanding because I know that you're decaying
Pronounce your words better, and I hate to be so blunt
But I would like to hear more than just a groan, a moan, or grunt

- Sherry Hill

MY HAIKU

Slow Down

I don't understand
I want to know you better
Slow down and relax

- Sherry Hill

APPRECIATIONS
I believe it's important to not be so full of ourselves. People help you along the way. So let's not be lazy about giving thanks.

Trip to Tyler
I belly danced with my dance sisters and drummers at the Four Winds Canterbury Faire  in Tyler, TX.  I had a great time! Here are my appreciations:

The Drivers - Thank you, drivers! I had a chance to sleep and write. I know driving is quite a chore - especially when paying attention to  street signs and regulations. Thank you for driving safely.

Performers -  I love seeing my friends. I wish we can see each other more often. It's always fun working with you. Thanks for helping me brainstorm ideas for my stories. See you next year!


Z-JOURNAL

Words to Songs

I was clapping and stomping to live Celtic music at an evening event in Tyler. I looked around the audience and noticed a man singing along. He seemed to know the words to every song! I was fascinated. I don't think I know all the words to any song (except children's songs - "Three Blind Mice" was da bomb).

For some songs, I concentrate more on the rhythm and beat rather than  the words. For other songs - I just don't understand what they're saying.


TOO MUCH Z-NESS?Do you find yourself getting lazy? Maybe someone called you lazy and that you need to get off your butt. Perhaps you're not accomplishing your goals like you should. Are you blaming the government for everything? Well, it's time for you to tackle your excessive Z-ness. I hope this tip helps you.

Well, I could look up the lyrics on the web and memorize them, but that's just too much work - especially when I want lyrics to many songs. I'll just make up some words for the parts I don't know. Are you like this?  

Tip

But wouldn't it be nice to know the words to all our favorite songs? We could clap, stomp, and sing along. That would be cool, right? Why don't we learn one song at a time? Pick one of your favorite songs and practice everyday. Sing phrases in the shower, close your eyes and see the words in your mind, sing them on your way to work, and sing the lyrics at work for practice. Who knows? Somebody might help you out.

Teenagers seem to know all the words to songs. You might ask them about the lyrics (depending on the song).

THE CHILLING CORNER
Because sometimes you need to chill

Movie 

The Sculptress

This movie is based the book, The Sculptress by Minette Walters. I want to see this movie again. It was weird. And I like weird. A woman is sent to prison for killing and dismembering her family, and a writer wants to prove that the inmate is innocent. I like the power of manipulation, and I especially loved the scene between the woman and the priest. I definitely need to read the book.

Book

For the following books, I received a free digital copy from storycartel.com in exchange for a review.

Passing Judgement: Short Stories about Serving Justice by Lesann Berry

The stories were beautifully written. Lesann Berry packed a lot of information in the stort stories. The twists left me thinking about human nature and decisions. I particularly liked the Thai plastic surgeon story. As I was reading the stories, I tried predicting the ending, and I was always surprised. Some stories were wordy at various spots, but for the most part; I enjoyed reading them.
Fresh Start by Sandy Kreps

Fresh Start is a good book for beginners about organization and decluttering. Most of the tips I've heard before, but the compilation of ideas was nice. I did appreciate the included links - particularly about mail. I thought the beginning of the book about goal-setting was too long. It was an easy read and I learned helpful hints. The bathroom tips were my favorite. Kids were mentioned a lot in this book, so it could be a helpful book for children assist in the decluttering process.

Deception  by Stacy Claflin

I enjoyed this young adult book. The author does a good job in advancing the story as well as developing character. It was a page-turner and a fast read. I would have liked for the pace to slow down  when Alexis was developing her skills. I loved the relationship between Alexis and Tanner. I'm looking forward to reading Betrayal, the next book in the series.

Music

"Calabria" by Enur ft. Natasja

I love this song! But I didn't know what she was saying. I got the lyrics from the web, and this will be the first song I'm determined to learn. It will take lots of practice, but I could do it. Natasja has a unique voice that flows with the music.The instrumental version is good, too.  If you hear me singing the lyrics, don't be surprised. I'm practicing. Help me out when you can. Thanks!


THE LEARNING CORNER

Vocabulary

obfuscate

verb (used with object), ob·fus·cat·ed, ob·fus·cat·ing.

1.

to confuse, bewilder, or stupefy.

2.

to make obscure or unclear: to obfuscate a problem with extraneous information.

3.

to darken.

"obfuscate." Dictionary.com Unabridged. Random House, Inc. 25 Apr. 2013. <Dictionary.com http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/obfuscate>.

Sentence

Please do not obfuscate the facts about the recent zombie attacks; we need to face the truth so we can fight back.

Learning Moment

In a conversation with a trucker, I mentioned  I used to be a waitress at a trucker's motel and see certain woman hang around with a particular job description. He told me they were called "lot lizards". Some truckers even put a sticker on the windshield that displays a lizard with a bar across it (meaning no lot lizards). I did not know this. I learned something new! I'm thinking about writing a story about this. Hmmm.

Hungry

POEM

Don't be judgmental. Don't be a hater
When a zombie cleans out your refrigerator
They're trying not to eat you, but they have a huge appetite
Be relieved that they're in training. It's not you they're trying to bite

- Sherry Hill

APPRECIATIONS
I believe it's important to not be so full of ourselves. People help you along the way. So let's not be lazy about giving thanks.

Food at Work

One day I forgot my lunch, so I appreciated the food I got from an event at my job. Those two giant baked potatoes, topped with butter, BBQ chicken, chives, and sour cream were absolutely delicious. It was not only that day I got some delicious food, though. When cultural or community events are happening at my place of employment, food is usually involved. I appreciate the organizers who invite staff to get a plate of food. For the most part, the food is great.

Z-JOURNAL

Kitchen Gadgets

I was looking through my cabinets and discovered kitchen gadgets I haven't used in a long time including a  steamer, rotisserie, electrical skillet,and  food processor. Some of those gadgets I've only used two times. I thought that was ridiculous.

What was I thinking when I bought these gadgets a long time ago? I guess I was thinking I would use them all the time, but that just didn't happen. It may be that they had too many parts or too troublesome to clean.

 I do love my crockpot, George Foreman grill, and my toaster oven. Perhaps I could put the other gadgets in use.

TOO MUCH Z-NESS?
Do you find yourself getting lazy? Maybe someone called you lazy and that you need to get off your butt. Perhaps you're not accomplishing your goals like you should. Are you blaming the government for everything? Well, it's time for you to tackle your excessive Z-ness. I hope this tip helps you.

Cooking and Cleaning

I told one of my coworkers I had a rotisserie I don't use. She asked me why. I said I don't feel like cleaning it after use. She replied and said that was just lazy. It's true. I'm  too lazy to clean it. All the parts aren't dishwasher-safe. After preparing the kitchen device and putting the chicken on it, I just don't feel like cleaning the rotisserie especially after dealing with the big mess when preparing the chicken.

Are you like this? Well, since I plan to start using the gadgets I haven't used in awhile, let me share a tip if you hate doing all that cleaning after preparing food. Here it is: You need to clean as you go.

Yeah, I know it sounds so basic. But think about it - cleaning as you go can certainly help.  When I'm making something that requires more than two ingredients, I have the dishwashing bin ready. I start rinsing dishes as I use them. I have dishwashing cloth to clean spills and debris. When I'm done with cooking, I don't have so much of a mess. It takes practice, but = you'll  eventually get the hang of it.


THE CHILLING CORNER
Because sometimes you need to chill

Movie 

The Dead (2010)

The setting of this zombie movie was in Africa.  It was sad and frightening since the zombies' acting and makeup were superb. The movie didn't waste time on how the zombie epidemic got started - which I liked. I like the teamwork between the two main characters, and the ending is left to the viewer's imagination.

Books

I received a free digital copy for the following book from storycartel.com in exchange for a review.

Absent Landlord by raw spoon

At first I was impatient with the book since the first chapter was slow. After about a day or so, I returned to read it and was glad I read the whole book. I enjoyed it. Some parts were sad. Some funny. I really like the way the rules of the house tied in with the human spirit. Even though the landlord was not noticed, one person decided to follow the rules with initiative. Good description of characters. My favorite character was Mumble Bum. This book encouraged me to write haikus and choose-your-own adventure books.

Music

"Hungry Like the Wolf" by Duran Duran

Ever felt a strong sense of need that needs to be satisfied? This song is for you.

THE LEARNING CORNER

Vocabulary

voracious - adj.

1. craving or consuming large quantities of food: a voracious appetite

2. exceedingly eager or avid: voracious readers; a voracious collector

"voracious." Dictionary.com Unabridged. Random House, Inc. 07 Apr. 2013. <Dictionary.com http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/voracious>.

Sentence

Although it is known that  zombies have  voracious appetites, people were still stubborn about evacuating. 

Learning Moment

Mangoes taste good with everything. They have that unique sweetness that just complements salsa, meat, salads, and more.

Move It

POEM

Where is this story headed?
I can't say I really know
I'm letting myself write. I'm letting my ideas flow
I tried to do an outline - but I find I can't adhere
As long as I let my mind go free, the ending will soon be clear

- Sherry Hill


APPRECIATIONS
I believe it's important to not be so full of ourselves. People help you along the way. So let's not be lazy about giving thanks.


Quiet Library Patrons - I patron my favorite library regularly, and I tend to see the same two regular patrons when I'm there.  I can always count on them being quiet - just like me.

They don't talk on their cell phones. They don't have loud conversations with people. They don't chow down on food and drink loudly. They don't listen to audio without headphones. They don't run and chase others in the library.

 I enjoy researching and learning without unnecessary distractions. I appreciate their manners and respect.

Z-JOURNAL

Fast food lines

It never fails. People hold up the line because they don't know what they want. The menu is roughly the same, but they may want something different from their usual. I can understand that. Taking a risk and trying something new make life fun and exciting.

When I am writing a story, I think of ways to make it exciting and original- different from the usual. I don't want the story to be too predictable and boring. I have to take a risk and think of different twists.

TOO MUCH Z-NESS?
Do you find yourself getting lazy? Maybe someone called you lazy and that you need to get off your butt. Perhaps you're not accomplishing your goals like you should. Are you blaming the government for everything? Well, it's time for you to tackle your excessive Z-ness. I hope this tip helps you.

Sleeping all day

I don't see how people sleep or lie in bed all day (12 hours or more). My body and mind do not allow me to do that (unless I'm sick or burned out). My body will ache if I unnecessarily stay in bed too long. My mind prompts me to do something productive like reading, writing, researching, or having a conversation with someone.

I hear from many people that sleeping is one of their hobbies. Really? I don't think it's a hobby. I think that they may be a bit lazy - maybe even depressed. Perhaps they need goals or real hobbies.

If you're one of those sleepers, my suggestion is to set goals for yourself. Write them on sheets of paper and tape them in your bathroom. Tape a goal on the mirror, on the toilet, the faucet, and the toliet paper area. That way, when you have to use the bathroom (and you eventually will), you will be reminded that you can be a productive person. Your goals can be short- term and long-term. You can even put up your positive traits and be reminded of your self-worth. Hope this tip works.


THE CHILLING CORNER
Because sometimes you need to chill

Movie 

The Six Wives of Henry VIII

I wanted to learn more about this time line so I watched the movie. The movie was entertaining and informative. I enjoyed it. The actor did a great job of portraying Henry VIII, although at times I didn't understand what he was saying - especially near the end. The wives did  great acting as well. My favorite was Anne of Cleves.

Books

Almost a Psychopath: do I (or someone I know have a problem with manipulation and lack of empathy? by Ronald Schouten

I'm researching various psychological disorders, and this book was an asset to my research. The author gave good examples on who may be considered a psychopath or almost psychopath. This book helped me to understand what is and what's not psychopathy. I learned about other disorders, too.The book was well-written and informative.

Stormy Spring by CC MacKenzie

I received a free digital copy for the following books from storycartel.com in exchange for a review.

I was fooled by the title. I thought I was going to read a simple romance novel, but I was pleasantly surprised. The novel was so spicy, and I liked it. This novel was a page-turner. I loved the plot and the relationships among the characters. I especially loved when Lucas "lost control" near the end. The story was a little too predictable, and I wanted a little more interaction between Becca and Lucas Del Garda's father. Nevertheless, CC MacKenzie's style of writing kept me engaged. I'm looking forward to reading more of her novels.

Into the Dark by Stacy Green

The book was a page-turner, and I enjoyed reading it. Some parts were too predictable - such as the romance, but I particularly loved the confrontation of Emile and her mother. Good characterization. I would love to read more of her books.

Music

"T-Street" by KnowSleep

The bass in this song is incredible. The beat is catchy and sparks my imagination.

For Writers

Check out this link to help improve your craft: storycartel.com/courseinfo

THE LEARNING CORNER

Vocabulary

laconic - adj. using few words; expressing much in few words; concise

"laconic." Dictionary.com Unabridged. Random House, Inc. 16 Mar. 2013. <Dictionary.com http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/laconic>.

Sentence

 Paul appreciated the zombie's laconic reply to his question since he hated long-winded conversations.

Learning Moment

 I've learned that the park is a great place to relax and get ideas for my stories.  I've also discovered that my favorite writing spot is in my car on the parking lot. I need to go to the park more often.

All in the Business

POEM

When I am doing research, I listen to people speak
They talk about their business - they don't bother to be discreet
I hear them talk at parties, at the store, and on their cells
And with my pen I write down all the vivid and juicy details

- Sherry Hill

APPRECIATIONS

I believe it's important to not be so full of ourselves. People help you along the way. So let's not be lazy about giving thanks. Here are my appreciations for this post:

Birthday Wishers - I want to thank everyone who wished me a happy birthday last month. The wishes meant so much to me. I still feel young and excited about writing more stories, dancing, and picking up new hobbies.

Neighbors - I appreciate my nice neighbors. I've lived in different areas of town and some neighbors just didn't know how to act. My current neighbors always says hi, lend a helping hand when needed, and put a smile on my face. Neighbors can change anytime, so I feel it's important to appreciate their friendliness.

Z-JOURNAL

I took the challenge of reading 100 books a year. I always felt that reading is important, but I never set a goal until now. I found out about the challenge at  http://thewritepractice.com, and I'm glad  I committed myself to the challenge. I read five books so far. I have a long way to go, but I'm determined to accomplish this goal. The website, http://thewritepractice.com, is a great site! I subscribe and get writing practice exercises sent to my email. Check it out!

TOO MUCH Z-NESS?
Do you find yourself getting lazy? Maybe someone called you lazy and that you need to get off your butt. Perhaps you're not accomplishing your goals like you should. Are you blaming the government for everything? Well, it's time for you to tackle your excessive Z-ness. I hope this tip helps you.

Some people complain about everything and everybody all the time. Do you know some of them? Have you noticed that they are the  laziest people? Is it you? Well, I hope not, but if you happen to be a chronic complainer; here's a tip: Smile more often. You're uptight. You've gotten too lazy to smile, and you feel that complaining is easier. You need to get in a better mood. Smile at yourself in the mirror. Smile at your neighbor. Smile at your co-worker. Smile at your relatives. Your smile will be returned by somebody. You will feel like a better person and perhaps you'll meet a new friend. Not everything is negative. Don't be so lazy not to realize that.

THE CHILLING CORNER
Because sometimes you need to chill

Movie 

Unleashed (2005)

This movie is about a man who seeks a new life after being trained as an attack dog. Great acting and fight choreography. My favorite actors in the movie were Jet Li, Bob Hoskins, and Morgan Freeman.


Books

Dearly Departed by Lia Habel

I like this book. It was slow at first, but the background information about social/class status was necessary. I like the way the book was organized. It took me the fifth chapter to realize that the author put the character as the chapter title to indicate who was speaking. I like this set-up since the 1st person was powerful. My favorite character was Henry. I look forward to reading the sequels.


I downloaded a free digital copy from storycartel.com for the following books in exchange for a review.

"Hands" by Joe Bunting

I enjoyed this short story. The imagery was excellent, and I enjoyed how the author used music to relate to life experiences. I did feel that the conversation explaining a political choice near the end was a big long, but the overrall message in the story was powerful.

Come Alive by Elora Ramirez

The message in this book was powerful. It touches on the horrible reality of human traffiking, and it's a book that everyone should read. I like the way the author shows the experiences, ignorance, and the effects of this worldwide problem. She did a good job of expressing the effects of traffiking through good characterization.

In some places, I felt that the experiences can be expounded for a more powerful message. The book does need editing since I saw some mistakes (use to instead of used to, you're/your) in several places.

Overall, the book sent a clear message and increased the awareness of human traffiking.

More or Less by Jeff Shinabarger

This book opened my eyes, and I considered the excess I have and where to contribute that excess. I particularly like the "just in case clothes" and discovering what was in my pantry. The book is well written and persuasive. I enjoyed the stories and the "Enough Talk" sections. A good read.


Music

"You Talk Too Much" by Run DMC

This song reminds me that people who talk too much can give me great story ideas.

THE LEARNING CORNER

Vocabulary

garrulous

adjective

1. excessively talkative in a rambling, roundabout manner, especially about trivial matters.

2. wordy or diffuse: a garrulous and boring speech.

excessively talkative in a rambling, roundabout manner, especially about trivial matters.

"garrulous." Dictionary.com Unabridged. Random House, Inc. 20 Feb. 2013. <Dictionary.com
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/garrulous>.

Sentence

His garrulous co-worker annoyed him; he preferred to communicate with his zombie friend of few words.

Learning Moment

I learned that I need to step up my practice in language learning. I need to make it a point to talk more in Italian and Spanish if I want to increase my level. I've been way too timid. I need to risk making mistakes so I can learn.

Trends

POEM

People are different, people are strange - I know the world has crazies
But I don't understand this increasing trend of people becoming lazies
Dead minds, excuses, and no hard work are things that people should fear
Maybe this is a definite sign that the zombie apocalypse is near

- Sherry Hill

APPRECIATIONS
I believe it's important to not be so full of ourselves. People help you along the way. So let's not be lazy about giving thanks. Here are my appreciations for this post:

Drummers  - The last drum jam at the dance studio was awesome!  I would like to thank the drummers for an incredible performance. You worked up some great beats and rhythms, and I felt the vibe when dancing to them. I'm excited about transitioning to a new dance location and hope for many great drum jams in the future. Opa!

Marathon Participants - Thank you for participating in the Houston Marathon! ! I enjoyed your spirit and determination. I had a wonderful time dancing and cheering you on. And thanks to the regular marathon participant who always gives the dancers flowers.

Z-JOURNAL

The Workplace

In the workplace, some people need close supervision all the time. They're lazy. They'll only do work when their supervisor is up in their face. That's a shame. I'm glad I'm not like that. I prefer to use my brain. I want to get better at what I do. I want to learn new skills. I take initiative.  I don't understand people who slack at work. How can they not do anything all day? I would be bored stiff. Plus, they're messing up the workflow. So much for teamwork.

I bet you can find at least one person (perhaps two people) in the workplace that's a slacker, and I hope it's not you.  It's okay to chill at times but don't be lazy at work.


TOO MUCH Z-NESS?
Do you find yourself getting lazy? Maybe someone called you lazy and that you need to get off your butt. Perhaps you're not accomplishing your goals like you should. Are you blaming the government for everything? Well, it's time for you to tackle your excessive Z-ness. I hope this tip helps you.

Tip - Label! Yes, labeling helps. Sometimes people get lazy because things aren't organized. They don't know where stuff is and that's an excuse for them to not do anything. Or they focus on finding that one thing and forget about the other tasks that should be done. I found some labels when I cleaned out junk one day. I decided to use them. I used them to label folders for my manuscripts. I used them to label boxes so I know what's in them.

Try it! You don't have to label every single thing - unless you're learning a language. Check out the different kinds of labels and select according to your needs.

THE CHILLING CORNER
Because sometimes you need to chill

Tip - Don't go on Facebook for a day. Yes, I know it's important to update your status on your relationship(s), food, jokes, kids, and your life. I know it's important to like and comment on everything. Even play the games. Really, I get it. But chill off Facebook for a day. Try having a person-to person conversation. How about writing a letter?  If you're having some withdrawal problems, just take a deep breath, take a walk, or give someone a hug.

Movie  - Zombie Apocalypse (2012)

It was an okay movie. It had some slow parts which I tolerated because of the incredible special effects. The zombies' acting was great and the makeup was superb.  I really loved the chainshaw scene and the zombie ambushes. Ving Rhames is the best living actor in the movie.This movie also made me look at archery as a possible hobby.

Book - Dead Inside Do Not Enter: Notes from the Zombie Apocalypse
A Lost Zombies Book - I loved this book! It's a collection of correspondence found in a backpack. The writers were victims of the zombie apocalypse. Some of the correspondence were funny, insightful, and sad. The notes looked so real. I especially loved the timeline in the beginning of the book because it's so believable. I want to read more books like this.

Music - Swiss Glide by Michna

This song makes me feel like I'm a zombie buster on a chase.

THE LEARNING CORNER

Vocabulary

lackadaisical (adj)

1. without interest, vigor, or determination; listless; lethargic: a lackadaisical attempt.

2. lazy; indolent: a lackadaisical fellow.

lackadaisical. Dictionary.com. Dictionary.com Unabridged. Random House, Inc. http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/lackadaisical (accessed: January 17, 2013).

Sentence

Mark couldn't wait to hire the trained zombies since he desperately needed to replace his lackadaisical employees.

Learning Moment

Research makes a better story. I know it sounds basic, but it's true. I'm revising one of my zombie manuscripts, and the story is so much better due to research.  My characters are more believable and have depth. I can't wait to finish revising because I see that the story will be a great one. 

Not only does research make a story better - it also gives me new ideas for more stories, and it feels good knowing that I gained knowledge.

Accomplishments

WHY ZOMBIES?

For some reason, I'm into zombies. I don't know why. Perhaps it was the classic movie, The Night of the Living Dead, or the funny B- zombie movies that did me in.  Maybe zombies bring out my greatest fears - dying a painful death, not being able to learn new things,and being reduced to a cannibal with no sense of consciousness. I do love other creatures such as  vampires and ghosts, but zombies are my favorite creatures.

POEM

The new year has come, and I've come to this conclusion
Don't make much of a fuss when making resolutions
Simply dream, inspire, and learn - do what your heart feels
Work hard, try your best, and don't forget to chill

- Sherry Hill

APPRECIATIONS

I believe it's important to not be so full of ourselves. People help you along the way. So let's not be lazy about giving thanks. Here are my appreciations for this 1st blog:

My writer friend - I would like to thank my writer friend for encouraging me to do a blog. It was quite fun organizing this. I'm excited about updating information so people can learn and chill out. She takes the time to critique my short stories and novel chapters, and I enjoy reading and critiquing hers. I'm grateful to have her support.

1st Responders - I would like to thank all 1st responders. You deal with different personalities and attitudes. And no matter if people are distressed, hurt, frantic, emotional, or rude; you always have to be on your game. Being calm and knowing what to do is commendable. I appreciate that.

Z-JOURNAL

End of the World

No way. I have many stories to write. I have so many ideas. I also need to dance, inspire, and learn more. So many things to do.

I'm so glad that I didn't see many people moping around claiming that their whole lives were miserable and a waste of time. I was happy to see parties happening and people smiling before and after the "end of the world".  I believe it's important to live life to the fullest.  Everyone should spend more time enjoying life and less time griping about it. 

Resolutions

Before making resolutions, I feel it's important to note accomplishments of the previous year. Here are mine.

• Completed and submitted six manuscripts
• Participated in NaNovMo - it helped me to stop editing every paragraph when drafting
• Met with writers in several critique groups, listened to feedback, and critiqued other writers' work
• Performed more dance solos
• Read more books (fiction and nonfiction)
• Learned more about the Black Death (The Great Plague) and the medieval time period through research
• Learned basic Italian - I know greetings, colors, numbers, vehicles, some body parts, and simple verbs
• Found my digital recorder and put it to good use
• Chilled more

My resolutions for 2013 are simply this: Read, write, dance, inspire, learn, work hard, and chill.

What are your accomplishments and resolutions?

TOO MUCH Z-NESS?
Do you find yourself getting lazy? Maybe someone called you lazy and that you need to get off your butt. Perhaps you're not accomplishing your goals like you should. Are you blaming the government for everything? Well, it's time for you to tackle your excessive Z-ness. I hope this tip helps you.

Tip - Make a To-Do List

Not keeping track of what needs to be done can make a person too lazy. Try using a to-do list. Everyday write down at least five goals. As soon as you complete a goal, cross it out. Don't put mundane things like taking a shower, brushing and flossing your teeth, or using the bathroom - You're supposed to do these things everyday. Write down real goals. Here's my example:

1. Read three chapters of - Dearly Departed by Lia Habel (That's what I'm reading right now)
2. Choreograph two combos for solo
3. Write two chapters of zombie novel
4. Go to library to research stages of decomposition
5. Practice dance troupe routine

Reward yourself: When you complete all goals for a day, give yourself a star. After so many stars (like 10-20), give yourself a treat.

Here are some of my treats for examples:
Big Mac, extra scoop of gelato, chocolate, glass of wine, pizza, new hair or clothing accessory, music, something from the $1.00 store

THE CHILLING CORNER
Because sometimes you need to chill

Tip - Don't answer your cell phone for a day - just chill. If someone hounds you later about not answering your phone, just simply say, "It was my chill time." I recommend you put a chill greeting on your phone. Here's an example: "Hello, you have reached (your name) mailbox. I'm sorry. I'm unable to answer the phone during my chill time, so leave a message. I'll return your call tomorrow. Thank you and chill out."

Movie -  Shaun of the Dead (2004)

This zombie movie was so funny. My favorite parts were the singing scene, the backyard scene, and the dying stepdad scene. Check it out!

Book - Aftertime  (2011) by Sophie Littlefield  - I like this zombie book. My favorite chapters are 28 and 41. Smoke is my favorite character. Check it out and chill.

Music - "Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger" by Daft Punk

This song reminds me to always better myself.


THE LEARNING CORNER

Vocabulary

daunt

1. to overcome with fear; intimidate
2. to lessen the courage of; dishearten

"daunt." Dictionary.com Unabridged. Random House, Inc. 04 Jan. 2013. <Dictionary.com http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/daunt>.

The zombie's drooling and hungry eyes did not daunt Samuel; he tried to spark a sense of humanity within them by using his soft and calm voice.

Learning Moment

I learned that writing a draft in bed is not productive for me. I don't get much accomplished. I end up going to sleep after writing two paragraphs. I was wondering why I hadn't made progress on this horror story I'm writing. Now I know. If I need to get some real work done, I need to write in a chair.