Recommended Reads

The time has come again, my pretties!
It's time for recommended reads.
We've been doing this for some time now. If you're a regular then you know the drill. I pick out a few cool things on the internet and share them with you in the hopes that you may like them too.
So, here we go.
Here are my recommendations for the week:

• 19 Ways To Stop Letting Stress Ruin Your Life
• Now for one of my favourite online comics, Hark, A Vagrant! It's full of comics related to history, literature and current events. It's brilliant.
• Is housing in your area expensive? Then why not read up on alternative housing methods and housing alternatives that may just beat brick and mortar.
• "What's Mine Is Mine," - Check out this interesting article on ten couples and how they manage their finances. Which method would work best for you and your relationship?
• Check out this brilliant cartoon interpretation of what higher education is like. I can certainly agree with it.
• Mary Sue has written an article that frankly discusses the problematic nature of the Jaime and Cersei rape scene on Game of Thrones and sexual violence in the show and on TV. I love Game of Thrones as a show but I have to say that this scene left me sorely disappointed not only by how different it was from the book and from Jaime's own character, but I was disappointed in the comments given after by those involved. It left me feeling utterly horrified and this article says it all very well, I think. 

Writing Weekend.

So having just had my first full weekend off in quite some time I can safely say that I put it to good use. I didn't leave the house, but I did manage to send off many job applications and I got a pleasing amount of writing done.

I've stayed up the past two nights and have written a few thousand words. If I can keep writing at this pace each night then I'm sure that I'll have a novel done in no time. In fact, at this current trajectory, it could be written within two months. That said, I doubt I'll be able to do that, but we shall see. I'm just very hopeful at this point in time.

Writing Day

Am currently settled down to try and get a spot of writing done. The past few weeks have been so hectic that I'm taking this opportunity to get any work possible done. I'm still hoping to get some full novel or longer project done by the end of the year. I want to be a published novelist by the age of 25. That sounds ambitious but I said I just wanted to be published before age 25 and I've already accomplished that. Now it's time for a full novel or larger book. It's tough because I'm the only one who can really write it.

The Never Ending Job Hunt!

I'm back into the epic adventure that is the job hunt today.

My current job is decent enough and has plenty of perks but I want something with better pay and something more relevant to my degree and my interests. I have a lot of big hopes and plans for my future and for it to all happen it's going to require more money.

This is the first full weekend I've had off in over a month. I'm using it to send out job applications and chill out whilst also trying to find a little time to also get some writing done. Eep!

DIY Time!

So I've done one of these before, it's a collection of DIY materials. Some are from blog posts or YouTube tutorial videos etc. Either way, the idea is to inspire you to to and make new things because DIY is fun and important.
Here are my picks for the month:

• How to decorate old, boring flip flops and make them prettier
• How to make raw taco gorilla wraps: this meal is super healthy and a carb free version of a regular tortilla/burrito wrap meal. 
• How to make your own nail polish
• How to make cupcake shaped bath bombs
• How to make cute soaps that look like popsicles
• How to make beautiful fairy wings.
• How to turn old keys into a colourful new necklace

Song of the Day: The Dragon's Daughter by Melody Sheep

Guys, if you're a Game of Thrones fan you've got to check out this auto-tuned Game of Thrones fan remix.

It. Is. Awesome. 

Title Change for Final Hobbit Film

Peter Jackson has made a startling announcement.

The director is set to release the final installment of the Hobbit trilogy later this year. Originally it was set to be named "The Hobbit: There And Back Again" but it has been released today that the title of the film is being changed to "The Hobbit: Battle of The Five Armies"

Jackson announced it online today, the original post can be seen by clicking here.

What do YOU think of the title change?

Chick Watch: Baby Number 7 Is Hatched!

So this time yesterday, three babies had hatched and a fourth was pipping through.
By morning we had six chicks, one egg was pipped through and one showed a vague sign of pipping.
The last egg that had been pipped has been discarded and a fluffy yellow and brown chick is snuggled up under her mama. There is just one more egg left and I feel like it shouldn't be long. The two broody hens who have been incubating the eggs, the wonderful Cheryl and Adele, are keeping that egg directly beneath them which suggests that they have innate knowledge that there is a baby chick in their in need of further incubation. We're hoping that baby chick number eight will be joining us within the next 24 hours.

So here at the home farm things have been wonderful these past 24 hours.

We recently had to give up our two cockerels because of their violent nature. They were lovely, we'd raised them since they were chicks, but we cannot have violent birds running around the garden. They also constantly humped all the other hens. We'd noticed that a few of the eggs that the hens had laid were being sat on as if to indicate that their may be something inside. We decided to leave the eggs there and let nature take course. Now, about three weeks later, this has been verified. Yesterday I came home to three newly hatched baby chicks and one that was pipping away like mad. Overnight two more came and we now have six in total, the final two eggs showing signs of pipping. I'm trying to leave the little chicks and hens to just do their thing but I'm also eagerly awaiting the next two hatching chicks. It's fascinating to go back an hour or so later to see how much progress has been made. The hatching process is a crucial development for the chick and actually takes a lot of time. Expect further updates and photos as the day goes on.

Twitter Week In Review Emails.

So, does anyone else get emails from Twitter reviewing your last week on the social media site?
I do and I actually really enjoy it.

It shows you some basic statistic figures by rounding up how many retweets, favourites and even how many views your Twitter has had. I like the last one. I can't believe my humble little Twitter is seen by over 300 people per week. It's like a mini business meeting where your work is reviewed and it highlights your most popular tweets and gives you feedback on how to increase your online visibility like by enabling the use of hashtags. Am I the only one who really likes this service because it makes social media time feel just that little bit more valued and productive?

Song of the Day: He's A Tramp by Peggy Lee

"He's a tramp
But I love him
Breaks a new heart
Every day.
He's a tramp
They adore him,
And I only hope he stays that way."

The Love Punch: Review + Response

On Friday I went to see The Love Punch. It's a comedy about a divorced couple heading towards retirement when disaster strikes: their pensions vanish. They then come up with what could be the perfect crime to earn back the money they've lost.

This was good, clean fun that will get everyone laughing and leaving with positive vibes. I thought that this is a film everyone should see regardless of age. It reminds us that you can still be daring and fun as you age. Emma Thompson gives a dazzling performance as an older woman trying to adapt to life alone now she is divorced and her kids are at university. I really enjoyed this film and found it to be a fun, refreshing flick.

Hayfever Problems.

The past few days I've been suffering.

I have the worst hay fever right now.
In fact I think the worst my hay fever has ever been. Even the slightest bit of pollen has had me sneezing and I've felt rather rough and tired. Even people with pollen on their coats set me off so in a way I guess I'm allergic to people. Finally.

The other day I tried to type "hay fever" on my phone and auto-correct tried to correct it to "gay fever"
Gee, thanks phone, you sassy little shit.

Song of the Day: Teddy by Razorblade Kisses

"Does the monster in your closet keep you up at night?
Do the toys in the attic give you a fright?
Are you fighting all the zombies in your underwear?
Well, I'm a big girl and I'm not scared."

One Year of HuffPost!

It is now officially a year since my first Huffington Post blog went live on their website and I must say that I am so pleased and so proud to be a part of such a wonderful website.
Having applied after finding success on this blog I was sure I wouldn't even be considered but after striking up conversation (mainly about Game of Thrones) with an editor it just... happened. I've been blogging ever since. Nothing makes me happier than seeing someone tweeting or sharing my blog posts. In 2013 someone even used one of my articles in a Twitter argument to justify their opinion. It was pretty rad.

Song of the Day: Pretty Dead Doll by Razorblade Kisses

"I wanna break you
And I want it bad
I've got your stitches
They're the best I've ever had."

Gig Etiquette: How Not To Be A F*cking Asshole At Live Events

Over the weekend I went to my first gig in a long time. I work a lot of hours and have been busy. Gigs weren't exactly a priority. At the gig in question, the band were fantastic. Some of the fans, however, were not. I go to a lot of alternative music events and have had quite the range of experiences. Some alt music fans are really nice and respectful where others are really not. I therefore thought I'd write up a few quick ground rules for gig-goers.

1. You want to be at the front of the gig? Good. Get to the venue early and queue up like everyone else. Don't wait until the gig has started and then push your way through the crowd to the front - especially if you end up hurting people, knocking them over and splitting up people who want to be able to enjoy the gig together. Some of us made plans to queue up to earn a place at the front and so we bloody well deserve it. 
2. I came here to see a band play. I didn't come to hear you and your buddy have a loud conversation throughout the entire event. If you came to see your friend rather than the band then hang out at the bar and don't bother people. 
3. You want to mosh? That's fine, but mosh if other people want to get involved. Create a safe space to do so and if people fall down, pick them up. I almost got trampled at a Sisters of Mercy gig because a bunch of dudes thought it was OK to start pushing and moshing in a really tight crowd of people. I was winded and knocked to the floor. A friend of mine had to fight people back to pull me up so my head didn't get stamped on. 
4. Got a drink? Bored of it? How about you don't drop it on the floor in the middle of a crowd? It's an instant health and safety hazard, someone could slip and hurt themselves. Either drink it, hold it or see if your friend wants it. Don't create a slipping hazard for other people. 
5. It's pretty common to want to sing along with the songs. You should be able to enjoy the music. That said, if I can hear your out of tune singing over the actual music, that's not going to be fun. If more than one person turns around to stare at you to find the source of the warbling, take it as a hint and take it down a few notches.
6. Don't pickpocket. Just don't. Ever.
7. Don't throw yourself at the stage at the singer in an effort to show your love for them, especially if you knock over several other fans in the process. I've seen plenty of guys literally throwing themselves at the feet of female singers at gigs. It's just a bit awkward for everyone involved.
8. Being in a crowd does not give you any excuse for a casual grope. Ever. 
9. Respect queues be they outside the venue, at the merch table or at the bar. It's basic respect. 
10. Be generally supportive. Is someone getting squished? Give them space. Standing in front of people? Just turn around and check if the people behind you can see what's going on. Did someone faint? Seek help. Does someone want out of the crowd? Move for them. 

The bottom line is that you're all there for one sole purpose: to see the band and have a good time. Just make sure you're allowing the people around you to have a good time too. 

Recommended Reads!

Happy Easter week, dear readers!
It's time for recommended reads!
This is a segment where I share a few cool things from around t'internet with you in the hopes that you'll like them too.
So here are my picks for this week:

• This cartoon perfectly sums up what it's like to live with depression and how other people respond to your depression. 
• Looking to travel whilst also doing awesome volunteer work? Click here and get some inspiration.
• Are you a YouTube fanatic? Then check out YouTuber Confessions to stay up to date on all things YouTube whilst also hearing the views of other subscribers. 
• Here are some gorgeous tattoos inspired by books.
• How To Make Chocolate Easter Eggs: Perfect in the run up to Easter, which is this Sunday. 

Song of the Day: Black Coffee by Peggy Lee

"I'm feelin' mighty lonesome 

Haven't slept a wink 

I walk the floor from nine to four 

In between I drink 

Black coffee 

Love's a hand-me-down brew 

I'll never know a Sunday 

In this weekday room "

Song of the Day: Into A Swan by Siouxsie Sioux

"I feel a force I've never felt before,
I don't wanna fight it any more.
Feelings so strong, can't be ignored.
I burst out.
I'm transformed."

Song of the Day: Ballerina by Razorblade Kisses

"Come on pretty doll,
Getting bored of you.

Do you hate me now?
Tell me what to do..."

Gig Review: Within Temptation @ Wembley Arena.

This weekend I had the delight of seeing the wonderful Within Temptation this weekend. I've loved this band for about ten years. It wasn't my first time seeing them live, but it was a brilliant gig. I almost felt 16 again, like I was young and newly in love with a band all over again.

I bought tickets for this gig about a year and three months ago. I bought them when I was a student, finishing my university dissertation. I bought these gig tickets with my student loans. That's how long ago it was that I bought tickets for this gig. Of course they scheduled the gig way ahead in the future but then the gig was rescheduled due to recording conflicts. I can confirm that it was well worth the wait.

Wembley Arena was filled and surrounded by corset clad women and band shirt bearing boys. There was a general buzz of excitement even though it was such a large venue. Within Temptation were supported by Delain, a band I'd heard much of from several friends but had never actually listened to. Delain gave a good, energetic performance. I'll definitely give them a further listen. They may even be some upcoming song of the day choices.

Sharon and the gang took to the stage with a brilliant set up, featuring two giant hydra heads, and impressive pyrotechnics.

The band played many songs from their latest album, utilising a large screen and recordings from those they've done duets with, and threw in some old favourites like Mother Earth, Ice Queen, Angels and See Who I Am. 

Sharon managed to pull off swift costume changes from leather corsets to sparkly party dresses all done in record time. Her vocals were crystal clear and from where I was standing the band looked like they were all having fun and really just enjoying what they were doing. Everything was smooth, well rehearsed and reminded us that these guys are true pros at what they do. This gig was a brilliant return to the UK and proved that the Temptation gang are strong as ever, each like a different head of the same Hydra.

Doctors.

Today I am currently sitting in a doctor's surgery waiting room to finally see someone about my dodgy knee. It's a simple thing. It can be fixed with a simple surgery and yet I'm feeling a little anxious. Something about doctors and clinics/hospitals just sets me on edge. Maybe it's the casual reminder that none of us are immortal...

Well, it'll be fine but send me your positive vibes anyway?

Song of the Day: Angels by Within Temptation

"Sparkling angel I believed
you were my saviour in my time of need.
Blinded by faith I couldn't hear
all the whispers, the warnings so clear.
I see the angels,
I'll lead them to your door.
There's no escape now,
no mercy no more.
No remorse cause I still remember
the smile when you tore me apart."

Absence.

You know what they say:
Absence makes the  heart grow fonder. 
Have you missed me?

I know I've been rubbish at updating this blog lately. I've even been slack at posting up song of the day posts. I mean, that's 365 blog posts per year and, although they're quick to put together, it requires a great deal of my time. I promise to write a bunch of blog posts over the next few days to provide some sort of blog content. I'm just trying to juggle work, writing, my social life and everything else around that.

Sending you love.

Review + Response: Return to Labyrinth pt 1 by Jake T. Forbes and Chris Lie

For my 2014 Reading Challenge I decided to read 'Return to Labyrinth' by Jake T. Forbes and Chris Lie. I know that this isn't a book as in a book with paragraphs and pages of prose but fuck it. This is my blog. It's my challenge. This is a book with pages and words and everything so I say it counts, okay?

Released via Tokyopop, this is a fun imagining of what would happen after the events of the Labyrinth film. It follows a grown up Toby, rather than the familiar Sarah, as a new protagonist who is drawn into the Labyrinth when it is in a state of political discord. I'm not a big reader of manga and I've never delved too far into anime but I did enjoy the first instalment in this series. I was a huge fan of the Labyrinth film. It gave me another reason to fall head over heels in love with David Bowie. This first instalment is light-hearted fun that

It's a fun adventure with some familiar faces and it sets the series up nicely. It's simple: if you liked Labyrinth then check this out - even if you're not a regular manga reader.

Recommended Reads

Hello, blog-ghosts!

It's Wednesday again so it's time for recommended reads, a segment where I give you some things to look at. These are things I've spotted online lately that I feel like sharing with you. They can be anything from news articles to videos, even pictures of Benedict Cumberbatch.
Why?
Because it's my damn blog.

So here are my picks for this week...

• Here are 13 Women who will redefine how you see Grannies. These women are bad ass. 
• Now for a YouTube video I want to share. It's one I hadn't seen in a very long time. It's Detective Mittens: The Crime Solving Cat.
• Did you know that Miley Cyrus isn't actually called Miley Cyrus? Her birth name is Destiny Hope Cyrus. Here's a further list of celebrities who have changed their names for fame.
• Then check out Art By Moga, a cool Tumblr artist.
• Here is an article from The Huffington Post called "How To Write Great Sex Scenes" ... you know, in case you ever need it. It also discusses how much of yourself and your own experiences should feature in such scenes.
• And, of course, click here for a photo of Benedict Cumberbatch

What I'm Working On.

Sometimes, when I'm stuck in a web of writer's block, I need to remind myself how many things I have planned. I remind myself that I need to finish one project so that I can move onto all of the others. I decided to share with you some of the things I've got planned or have been working on. Maybe it's just to remind myself exactly how much I've got on my plate.

Some of my upcoming projects include:

• A young adult trilogy that fans of The Hunger Games and Divergent would enjoy
• A further young adult novel of a different series with the idea penned out for a sequel
• A novella that I think fans of Nabokov's "Lolita" would enjoy. I promise, it's not as racy as Lolita though.
• A few short story collections, one is heartfelt drama and one is a horror collection.
• I've got a horror novel on the way which I'm super excited about, I may even turn it into a screen play.
• Another novella based on true events that happened to me a few weeks ago at work. It will be the length of a novella but each chapter is a different story that plays into the greater narrative.
• A supernatural novel about life after death

In total I have about 18-20 projects planned out, including a few screen plays for television and film. I'm also hoping to turn one of my published short stories into a graphic novel and writing a book for young children based on a poem I wrote some time ago.

What's Your Game of Thrones Name?

Now, for a little bit of silly fun. With the return of Game of Thrones I find myself very happy - particularly at the joining of a fandom all excited over new episodes of a show. I came across this brilliant "What's Your Game of Thrones Name" generator on Buzzfeed.

Click here to find out what your Westerosi name would be. Let me know in the comments section what your Thrones name is.

Mine is apparently "Khaleesi Gabrienne Lannister, The Little Lion."
It's part my name, part Brienne's name and I'm a Lannister.
AWESOME!

Song of the Day: You Know You're Right by Nirvana

"Things have never been so swell
I have never failed to feel

Pain."

This is honestly one of my favourite songs ever.

Review + Response: The Vampire Armand by Anne Rice

I'm a big Anne Rice fan and, in the wake of the news that she's writing about her beloved vampires again, I turned to my favourite book in the series. It is the first time I've picked up an Anne Rice book since my university dissertation about homo-eroticism in vampire literature through the ages. The Vampire Armand follows Armand from boyhood into his preternatural existence as a vampire.

This is not my first time reading this book. It isn't the second either. I've read this book many times and it's one of my favourites. I adore the relationship between Armand and Marius. They're on OTP level with me. I have a real love for this book. In terms of plot, it's not the most thrilling and exciting. I like it mostly for Amadeo's youth in Venice. I love Anne Rice's writing style. This book is like literary comfort food for me.

Motivational Monday: Find The Thing That Fulfils You.

As I write this my cat, Wednesday, has been curled up and sleeping on my lap for about ten minutes. That may not seem like a big deal but to me, and to her, it is. Wednesday was a rescue cat and had a very bad start in life. I've made it my personal mission over the past three years to make her feel safe and cared for. When we got her she wouldn't accept cuddles. She would rip your hands to ribbons if you tried to pick her up. The fact that she's able to sleep soundly in my lap demonstrates a high level of trust that has taken years to build up. Every time she comes over for a cuddle like this, I find myself filled with pride. Little things like this honestly make me feel that life is truly worth living. It is important to find the things in life that make us feel fulfilled, like life is worthwhile. What makes you feel proud of yourself? What makes you feel like you're doing some good?

AHHH!
It's going to start any minute now! I'm actually shaking a little with joy. This is going to be a raw blog: I'm just going to let my thoughts flow, write them down and then post them with no editing. It'll be messy. I may not write much - but at least it captures my thoughts.

I don't watch a lot of TV shows but Game of Thrones has become my favourite. I'm so excited for the season ahead. There are some moments from the books that I'm so excited to see.

Oh God, it's starting.

The Rains of Castamere sends chills through me whenever I hear it.

AAAAND THE INTRO MUSIC BEGINS - THE SONG OF MY PEOPLE!

Can I just say how I love that they're showing it in the UK and USA at the same time so us Brits don't have to deal with spoilers and stuff? I'd always see little snippets on Tumblr before I got to see the proper episode. It'd bug me.

I'm so annoyed at Jaime's haircut. Jaime with long hair was beautiful. I mourn his hair like I mourn Jaqen H'ghar's old face.

Ahh, Oberyn and Ellaria Sand were introduced so perfectly.

Awh! Drogon is adorable. Dany and Drogon cuddle times.

The new guy playing Daario Naharis looks so different from the last actor, I can sense many people getting confused.

Sansa is one of my favourite characters from the books. Sophie Turner nailed that scene.

YAY CERSEI!I'm so happy to see Jaime and Cersei together. I ship them so painfully hard I don't even care and if you think it's wrong because of incest then may I direct you to the history of House Targaryen.
NO.
MORE JAIME AND CERSEI SCENES PLEASE.
BRING THEM BACK NOW.

JON SNOW YOU SASSY BASTARD.

I adore the Jaime/Brienne bromance.

YES! SER FUCKING DONTOS! I THOUGHT THEY WEREN'T GONNA DO THIS BIT.
I THOUGHT THEY'D WRITTEN HIM OUT.

THE HOUND GOT HIS FUCKING CHICKEN.

OK well I didn't really say too much through that but wow. That was amazing. I'm all kinds of happy. I've recorded it and I'm sure to watch it again. I think I'll record Thronecast and watch it in the morning. But seriously, that was freaking awesome.

Song of the Day: She by Laura Mvula

"She walked towards you with her head down low,
She wondered if there's a way out of the blue,"

Game Of Thrones Season 4 Premiere.

I was really sad when I noticed that I was meant to work tomorrow night when the first episode of season four of Game of Thrones was meant to air. I mean, I was practically devastated. I was already planning on how to get home as fast as possible when my shift ended. I even considered calling in sick even though I've never taken a day off of work from my current job.

But then suddenly, good news came! I've just found out that the première episode is showing at 2am on Sky Atlantic. Yes, readers, I'll be staying up and watching at 2am. I'll be live blogging my thoughts through the first episode and posting them on the blog once the episode is finished. I'm so excited.

Kurt Cobain,

Today marks 20 years since the death of Kurt Cobain. Growing up I loved the music of Nirvana. I found solace in it.

In fact I can remember the first time I heard Nirvana.
It was a breezy autumn day and I was sat on a park bench with a friend when that infamous riff intro for 'Smells Like Teen Spirit' poured through the iPod ear phones.

My sister recently asked me for some of my Nirvana CDs because she's curious about their music. It's so cool that Cobain is still inspiring people with his music and reaching new audiences.

RIP Kurt Cobain.

How Stephen King's "Carrie" Made Me Find My Own Power.

So this week, one of my favourite books turns 40! That book is Stephen King's "Carrie" and I cite it as one of the most influential books I've ever read. Sure, it isn't the book that most people would say is a book that influenced them, but it is for me. I found it at the exact point in my life when I needed it most.

I found it in my first year of secondary school. I was the girl with bad teeth and a mess of ratty blonde hair. I preferred Broadway musicals to hip hop and I was more likely to be find buried in a book than buried in the arms of a boy. It was during this time that I began working as a student librarian. I'd chosen to attend the school because of the beautiful, old library. There seemed something so hallowed and peaceful about it. It was a good place to hide, though it didn't really feel like hiding. I found so many books, so many first loves, on those book shelves. On of them was Carrie. The cover featured Sissy Spacek's face covered in blood. I'd always been interested in horror and I'd heard my father mention the book before. I quickly checked it out of the library and took it to read on the forty minute bus journey home at the end of the day.

I sat down at the front of the bus and began reading. I'd learned that sitting near the bus driver minimised the bullying rather than sitting further back, in the middle of a crowd of people. I was instantly captured by the narrative style, using fictional newspaper clippings, letters, articles. Very quickly I became interested in the book. One kid, a veritable show off, leaned over my chair and began reading an extract from the book out loud to some of the other kids. It was, of course, the part where Carrie has her first period. He began reading it aloud to other students who laughed at me and began mocking me for reading something "perverted" and "gross" in my spare time. The boy took the book from my hands and promptly hit me around the back of the head with it. I snatched the book back, closed it and sat in silence for the next thirty minutes just staring blankly out at the road ahead. That was a real changing point for me. The more I read this book, the more I empathised with Carrie. I knew all too well what it was to be the weird girl in school. Reading this book, for me, was a strangely therapeutic experience. Though I didn't have the powers that Carrie had, it made me start to stand up for myself. I began finding a new strength in myself. I realised that even the weird, geeky kids have power and that allowing people to walk over you wouldn't really solve the problem. From that point on I stood up for myself more. All too often we're told to just ignore bullies but I've found that the more you ignore them, the more they will walk over you. In all honesty, I did sometimes imagine having telekinetic powers and exacting vengeance upon my bullies but after reading Carrie I found myself feeling a little stronger.

Now, as a writer, I highly appreciate King's writing style. Over the years I saw the Sissy Spacek version of the film, then the one starring Angela Bettis. I'm yet to see the most recent adaptation featuring Chloe Grace Moretz, mainly because I felt the trailers gave away so much of the plot that it missed an opportunity to properly introduce the horror of the text to a new generation. I would urge every young girl, or every young person who feels left out, to read this book. Maybe don't use it as inspiration to take revenge on your entire high school, but you should certainly read it and realise that we do have some power within us: the power to endure, the power to stand up for ourselves, the power to make people feel bad for treating us so poorly to begin with.

Anne Rice on Bad Writing Advice.

This is something that the wonderful Anne Rice recently posted on her Facebook page:



"I've often said there are no rules for writers. Let me share the WORST AND MOST HARMFUL ADVICE I was ever given by others. 1) Write what you know. 2)You'll have to polish every sentence you write three or four times. 3)Genius is one tenth talent and nine tenths hard work and 4) You're not a real writer if you don't write every day. --- ALL OF THAT WAS HARMFUL TO ME. ALL OF IT. IT HURT AND IT SET ME BACK. ----- So I say again, there are no rules. It's amazing how willing people are to tell you that you aren't a real writer unless you conform to their cliches and their rules. My advice? Reject rules and critics out of hand. Define yourself. Do it your way. Make yourself the writer of your dreams. Protect your voice, your vision, your characters, your story, your imagination, your dreams."

Personally I think that writing what you know isn't always harmful. It's certainly a good place to start, especially if you don't know where to begin. You can write about your experiences, your town, the people you've met in life. Just fictionalise it a little. Find something entertaining and work around it. 

You don't have to write every day. I didn't know when I could call myself a writer. Do you call yourself a writer if you're writing or when you've actually been published? Does being published verify your writer status when so many amazing writers don't get actual publication? I've realised that it's very simple. If you write, you're a writer. You can call yourself a writer. It's a loose term. 

Write. Write what you want to, how you want to, when you want to. Do whatever you want to, whatever you can, and it'll be good enough in some way.

Song of the Day: Smells Like Teen Spirit by Nirvana

"With the lights out
It's less dangerous"

One Year Later.

I realise now that I've been writing on this blog for just over a year now. By March last year I was writing regularly in the run up to my dissertation deadline on the 22nd of March. Here I am, still writing my blog, and racking hundreds of views per week. I've been so busy and I didn't really acknowledge the milestone but it has been on my mind today.

It has been a great experience and has opened many doors including giving me the opportunity to write for The Huffington Post. As ever, I'm looking for new experiences so I may do more with journalism later this year, but I hope to keep blogging for the foreseeable future. I hope you'll all keep reading.

Song of the Day: Let It Go (cover) by Alex Boye ft One Voice Children's Choir

Just when you thought you were over "Let It Go" from Frozen, this turns up.
This wonderful cover of the hit Disney song has been making the rounds on the internet lately.
With a full choir and a djembe beat, this version is a nice refreshing cover.
Enjoy,

Song of the Day: Retrograde by James Blake

Free Time.

Woohoo!

I have the next three days off.
When I'm not at the cinema to see the new Divergent movie (I just bought the book and wanted to read it before seeing the film, but doubt that'll happen) I am going to be writing. I know Camp NaNoWriMo is currently on but I don't think I'll be taking part. I'm not the best at monthly challenges. I have been writing, though. My hopes are that I will have at least a novel finished by the end of the year but I'm lazy as Hell and I find it so hard to actually sit down and really write. Fingers crossed, though.

JK Rowling Writing A Trilogy

So the news broke this week that JK Rowling's new "Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them" series is to be a trilogy. This news, of course, makes me immensely happy. JK Rowling has so much magic up inside her head that she wants to share and I'll gladly explore that world with her in anything she writes. Harry Potter and his adventures really shaped my childhood. When the news broke that JK Rowling was set to write a film in the Wizarding World I was ecstatic. It makes sense that Rowling is set to write a trilogy. She always creates so much back story and subtext that one film couldn't possibly contain all that her imagination could conjure. This is brilliant news and I cannot wait to see what is created.

Recommended Reads!

Another Wednesday. Wednesday means many things but most importantly it means it's time for recommended reads, a segment that has been read the world over. What is recommended reads? It's simply a brief segment where I suggest a few things I've seen and enjoyed around the interwebz lately so you have something to do other than refreshing Facebook every 4 minutes.
Enjoy!

Here are my picks for the week:

• Sad Etsy Boyfriends: Oh, the things we do for love...
• 37 Important Life Lessons.
• A Quiz about the pets of famous authors: how many can you get right?
• Considering selling your house? Here's how NOT to do it from a blog called Terrible Real Estate Agent Photos. 
• Here are some heart breaking Harry Potter facts and number 15 is one I really wish had happened.
• Reasons why The Doctor would make a terrible boyfriend
• Signs that you are dating a nerd. 
• The 23 Most Wonderfully Scottish Things That Ever Happened.
• And, speaking of Scotland, here are some gorgeous instagram photos of the country. If you've never been to Scotland, which happens to be my homeland, I highly recommend you visit.
• Oh go on then, let's have another Scottish thing...40 Reasons Scotland is Better Than England :3

Song of the Day: German Sparkle Party by The Something Experience

One day, I swear to God, I'm going to have my own German Sparkle Party...
Whatever that means. 

Silver Linings Search: March

Hello, blog-ghosts!
It's time to start looking for the positive things that happened to me in this, the month of March. This is a personal project that I started with myself to just write down and record good things that happened this year. The idea is that it gets me focusing on the positive. I think we too often focus on the bad things that happen and forget all the good things in our day. Sometimes you have to search a little harder to see the good, but it's there. Here are some good things that happened in the month of March:

• I got a lot of script writing done. 
• I actually got some reading done for my 2014 Reading Challenge which is good because I was seriously lagging behind quite badly. I had some Neil Gaiman, some Rainbow Rowell, some manga. It's all been good!
• A double page spread that I wrote for a magazine was published. Unfortunately they didn't publish my name along with it BUT it's still pretty damn cool - my words printed forever, sealed in ink. It's just another thing to write on the CV I suppose...
• I started working on some articles for my local newspaper which would mean getting some local exposure and journalistic experience.
• I also started doing some work for the company at which I am employed which involves writing and the arts. Again, this just means I'm doing things that are relevant to my dreams and aspirations and my personal skill set is being appreciated.
• I applied for my dream internship. Fingers crossed I actually get it but at least I know that I tried. It would be absolutely amazing to get it though. 
• I had some outrageously good naps. I mean soul restoringly good.
• I also had some really nice baths. These might seem like really mundane things but they're the things that calm me and make the day a bit better.
• I picked up some extra, exciting projects which should be interesting. It'll mean I'll be getting some experience working as a journalist as well as doing some PR and Marketing work. 
• I took a trip to IKEA and bought some beautiful home accessories. 
• I had some time to just catch up with my parents and have some one on one time which was really nice.
• Anne Rice announced that she is bringing out another Vampire Chronicles book and this made me so, so happy. You have no idea. I'm such a huge fan of her work that it became a huge part of my university thesis. She is one of my absolute idols as a writer and as a human being. I'm so glad that the world will hear Lestat once more. Rice has even hinted at more books after that. Yay!
• The sun started to come out. Flowers began to bloom. The blossoms started falling down from the trees. Beautiful... 
• I got really, really creative and I did a lot of writing and penning out various projects including my next collection of short stories and a novella. I know, I know. It'd be great if I could sit down and actually finish something but who knows? Maybe I'll get around to finishing something very soon. I've been writing like mad lately. 
• MY FREAKING BOOK LAUNCH HAPPENED. I wrote a whole post about it on this blog.
• I got to go back to Huddersfield and visit for a day and a half. It was short and sweet but man, I love that town.
• I got a cake with a picture of my book on it, a wonderful gift from my father. Best writer perk ever.
• I went to IKEA and bought a few beautiful home items. One is a gorgeous lantern and the other is a bird cage room ornament that hands from my ceiling. Bird cages - most fitting!
• I won a few competitions at work. I love the thrill of winning and achievement. 
• I got to work at this super cool Muppets event with a few reps from Disney. It was really cool PR experience and, as an added bonus, I now have some cool photos of me with some of the Muppets. 
• I had a super satisfying moment when I bumped into my old boss. He fired me and was a really loathsome person. There I was working at a cool event and there he was, now officially unemployed. Look who's on top now, matey...
• I got a little ambitious this month and started asking after a better position in the company that I currently work for. Although there are no job vacancies, I registered my interest. I don't know if I'll work for this current company for long. I definitely know now that I want to move onto bigger, better things. 
• I've managed to get a bunch of writing done. Ever since my book launch people keep asking me what I'm going to write next. It truly pushes me to work on new projects.
• I met up with some old friends, some of whom I hadn't seen since I was a teenager, which was refreshing. 
• So many people pre-ordered my short story collection and I felt so shy and so humbled by how many people went out to pre-order it. It truly was something special. It gave me all the feels.
• I got my first ever book review. Yes, someone read and reviewed my work and gave it some pretty high praise. It was the first ever official review of my work which excited me greatly. Similarly on the 10th of March I noticed that you can actually buy my collection of short stories on Amazon. I'm on Amazon! FREAKING AMAZON. 
• I've been to some brilliant events: I saw Eric Whitacre and the Eric Whitacre singers at Union Chapel. I saw Laura Mvula. I saw the Cantate 20th Birthday Concert. 
• I've had the opportunity to bump into so many old friends, many of them I've seen over the past week. It was wonderful to catch up with people I once knew. I love hearing how their lives are going and what they're up to now. I've also bumped into people I've not spoken to in years who somehow know of my publication of short stories. This makes me very, very happy. 
• I've also made some wonderful new friends. I'm always thankful to meet new people. 
• I got to do a First Aid course. I was thankful to have been chosen for the opportunity. Similarly, I am glad that I have the training to potentially help save a life.
• I got to spend some great time with my family. Right now we're sat together eating pizza and watching The Musketeers.