The Scribblings of an Aspiring Author

Fall is approaching..

2010-07-21T07:02:00.000-07:00

And with it, the Fall 2010 Semester. I love Fall, but I don't look forward to going back to college already. At least I have my schedule made...

Creative Writing - MWF - 9:00 - 9:50 am
Intro to Cinema - TR - 9:30 - 10:45 am
Painting I - Tues. - 6:30 - 9:10 pm
Beginning Photography - Thurs. - 6:30 - 9:10 pm
Wellness I - Whenever I want to go in.
Intro to Astronomy - Telecourse

Really, it could be worse. It sounds A LOT better than my previous two schedules. And with what spare time I hope to have in between classes, I can still get my writing and stuff done, versus having very little free time during the day to write like my previous two semesters. So, maybe this is a step in the right direction in terms of proper writerly time management?

I guess we'll see at the start of the semester, won't we?

~Angel

Alive again.

2010-07-14T07:33:00.000-07:00

For the first time in a while now, I don't feel like I'm about to die. I mean, I'm in A LOT of pain. I'm missing a chunk of mouth -- two teeth, some skin/gums -- and I've got stitches. But the way I feel now compared to how I felt before.. It's already a little better. I felt like I was seriously dying before, because the infection was so bad and spreading. It was like the antibiotics just couldn't make it stop. I had fevers, pain, blood and dying tissue. I was dehydrated and my muscles ached. It really started to scare me when I got a neverending headache, felt physically weaker than usual, saw some of the black dying skin spreading, and started to have stomach pains.
I really thought there was nothing I could do to stop myself from dying.
Then yesterday was procedure two, of course. It was horrible, and like I said, I've got a hole in my mouth, and I felt horrible all day yesterday. But they got fluids and food in me, painkillers, and antibiotics. I slept off and on all day. Held gauze in my mouth whenever I was awake because of the bleeding.
Yet, today it's totally worth it. I feel just a little better, which is a miracle to me since I hadn't done anything but get progressively worse. I have a little energy, I can eat soft stuff, my headache is gone, and my fever broke. I can feel it, I'm gonna get better.
And one more procedure next tuesday, plus removing my stitches, and I'll be all set. I can heal, get all better, and move on with my life.
I'm ready to get back on track -- back to losing weight the healthy way (versus this whole, you know, refusing to eat thing), back to writing like a mad woman and pursuing that dream of mine, back to seeing my friends and letting them know just how much they really mean to me--

And definitely, I'm ready to be back to living.

~Angel

Back on Track

2010-07-12T06:46:00.000-07:00

I feel like I'm literally writing to save my life.

With how sick I've been lately, writing really is my best escape. For that amount of time, there is something to dream about, some other life to deal with, someone else to be. I don't have to worry about whether or not this will all turn out okay for me. All I have on my mind is revisions, notes, characters, ideas -- getting done with this WIP finally and taking myself somewhere.

And when I'm not working on the WIP, I'm working on other stuff that'll still aid me in my dream. Like review work, articles, short fiction -- stuff to get my name out there. To get me some publication credit.

But writing will always be, above all else, my escape. If my dream never comes true, or it isn't a super successful career - well, it'll suck, but it won't be the end of the world. Writing is still my passion, my medicine, my life support. I'll always write for me, even if no one else in the entire world gets to read a word of it.

So, now I slave over the WIP, which is in the middle of revisions at 38,000 words. I have a feeling that this book will be THE ONE. I just know, somewhere inside me. Maybe I'm wrong, maybe I'm not. We'll see though, won't we?

Instead of talking about writing, I'm going to go do some.

~Angel

No One Can Beat Me Now

2010-07-08T08:18:00.000-07:00

All men dream but not equally. Those who dream by nightin the dusty recesses of their minds wake in the day to find that it was vanity; but the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for they may act their dream with open eyes to make it possible.

-T.E. Lawrence

My life has been something of a constant challenge; overcome one obstacle, only to have two new challenges twice as difficult be thrown in my path. I won't get into the details, but it's been the embodiment of the quote "What doesn't kill us only makes us stronger." In 20 years, I've went through several horrible experiences, a lot of which other people have encountered. The difference is that these people tend to only experience one or two of these things, where I had experienced several by age fifteen. And for the longest time, I kept them all bottled up, refusing to talk about them or accept they happed -- because that's what I was taught to do.

I've been falling apart at the seams this year, my demons finally getting the upperhand. I'm used to dusting myself off and picking up whatever is left, but the past few months it seems like I can't even get myself back up before I'm hit again. By June 23rd this year, the five year mark since my best friend Eric died, I was fighting a losing battle to keep myself. I felt like some other person was pulling the strings. I didn't live; I existed.

After leaving the cemetery on the 23rd, I felt a strange sort of calm start to set in and replace the constant ache in my chest. A part of me worried that it was a sign I was about to die -- I had the first of three procedures in my mouth to correct whatever has been going on in my jaw. It hit me -- what if I have an allergic reaction to the anesthetic? what if they slip up and do something wrong? what if I stop breathing?

The night before, I felt so inexplicably calm.

Obviously, I'm still here. Granted, there is a nasty infection, a lot of bleeding and swelling. I have antibiotics and my second procedure is on Tuesday. But I'm drifting from my original point...

I mentioned to my mom how much I missed my (deceased) friend Eric's family, since we drifted apart after he died. Then I ran into her last week. We talked -- I showed her my tattoo dedicated to Eric and she cried. Then I learned something - she never goes to the cemetery anymore. Hasn't since the week after they buried him. And then she asked if I've ever went back.

I smiled and said, "All the time. Definitely every year on June 23rd. I stay and talk to him a while." She almost started to cry again when she said she's just not strong enough.

Later that evening, other aspects of my life started to fall apart, and to my surprise I felt that calm come over me again. I couldn't figure out how I was fighting off my depression, but I let the calm stay and keep my head clear.

It was the next day that I was listening to a CD I just bought -- one of mine an Eric's favorite artists -- that had came out the 22nd. The CD seemed dedicated to the artists drastic change in his life since he felt his deceased best friend warn him about the direction his life was heading in.

And the more attention I paid to the lyrics, to his story, the more I started to realize little strange things that had happened to me during some of my hardest times over the past five years. Strange things that seemed eerily connect to Eric. The newest being the strange calm, and seeing his mom.

I started crying... It hit me like a sack of bricks to my face -- as crazy as it sounds --

Eric is still with me, still guiding me, in spirit anyway. And this was the only way he could get me to see that my life has gone off track, that I've been letting myself down, when really I'm strong enough to overcome anything. He had to make me calm so I could see clearly, he had to show me how strong I am by showing me how everyone else is taking his passing.

I've spent so long now hating myself for being alive. I've been plagued with guilt and hate that wouldn't let me live my life since he couldn't. Eric's passing has been my weakness, when his memory should've acted as my strength. Instead of dwelling on the fact that I couldn't save him or exchange places with him, I'm focused on celebrating his memory and living for the both of us.

How does ANY of this apply to anyone else? Why am I posting it on my writing blog?

Eric was ALWAYS one of my biggest supporters. He'd listen to me read my stories to him, he'd be honest with what he thought, and he'd tell me that I needed to be a writer before I ever thought I could obtain such a dream.

So, I've got the message loud and clear -- Get back to living. Accomplish those dreams.

And I plan to. I'm too strong to let anyone or anything stand in my way now. Including myself.

I'm back, ladies and gents.

And to end this on a much more pleasant note:

MY VERY FIRST IN-PRINT ARTICLE IS OUT!

Issue #3 of Ax Wound (http://www.axwoundzine.com/) features an article by yours truly on page 90, not to mention a photo I took on page 44. This is pretty big to me, since in this very same issue is also an interview with THE Eli Roth (Cabin Fever, Hostel, Inglorious Basterds)

Success if it is to be meaningful must be a personal thing.

-Howard Whitman

So feel free to order, lovelies, and cheer me on. This is a step in the right direction --

Nothing can stop me now.

~Angel

Braaaaaains!...

2010-07-07T14:45:00.000-07:00

I have returned, like a zombie fresh out of the grave. But unlike a zombie, I'm alive and kicking (which doesn't explain this odd craving for brains..) Things in my personal life became sort of... chaotic... the past few months. Holidays, relationship troubles, computer crash, college, medical issues... Really, I'm grateful I'm here right now.

So, I'm fixing up the ol' blog and giving it the love it deserves -- as well as posting again regularly for my loyal readers. I've been away far too long, lovelies, and for that I do apologize.

Try to keep up with me -- this place is going to make a comeback, with more life than ever!

Let me know what you think of the changes, and I'll have a better post up tomorrow. I crave your opinions, just like I crave those tasty, tasty brains..

~Angel

Playing Catch-Up

2009-12-12T22:44:00.000-08:00

With my internet life, that is.

I just finished up my very first semester of college, ladies and gents. You know that this means? Yup. I now have a month off to write and write and... oh yeah, WRITE. I have a WIP to tidy up and send to agents. =]

But, along with finishing the WIP and attempting to hammer out a rough draft of ANOTHER story, I am also going to catch up and hopefully get ahead in my blogging type things. Like, I have some pre-planned blogs for this blog (not a bunch, really, except maybe in Feb.) and attempting to get WAY ahead on my review blog, which needs lots of TLC from me.

So, I'll be around more. A lot of the time, I'll be playing catch-up.

~Angel

The Newest Member of the Family

2009-11-24T08:18:00.000-08:00

World -- I'd like to introduce you to the newest member of my family -- Saffron Emer.

Saffron was originally taken from her litter by a family that couldn't afford her because she, as well as the other pups, weren't being treated.. well, we'll just say they weren't being properly cared for. The family that took her and one of her brothers in, however, couldn't afford nor did they have time to take care of both pups. This is where, a lot of the time, someone at my house is contacted. This time, it was me. And I have a hard time saying no, especially to a little one in need. She was skinny, dirty, and covered in fleas, but I didn't care. I knew she needed someone to love her.

Saffron came to live with me on Friday, and she's been a perfect fit to our crazy house. Taylor and I had to spend some time bathing her and getting every single flea off of her. We fed her a gave her attention that she desperately wanted. She's pretty small, maybe a little bigger than an adult chinchilla. She's full of energy, adventurous, and LOVES her momma (aka, me). She stays upstairs in my room, because she's too small to leave downstairs with the others. And she might, you know, get lost. So, when I'm home, she's at my heels. When I leave, I put her in my bathroom -- which is the biggest in the house and is currently puppy proof and rather nice for a pup's place. She sleeps on her puppy bed in my bathroom, too. My room isn't quite ready yet for a puppy to play in there safely as I sleep -- but by some time this week, she'll end up being curled up in my bed where she always wants to be. =]

I've always wanted to run or help an official No Kill Shelter for animals. When I was young, that's what I wanted to do. I would drag in stays and hurt animals all the time -- it's a wonder my mom didn't kill me! -- but the habit has yet to change.

Since I've moved to our new house, complete with it's 18 acres, this has been a little easier on us space wise. The wild animals (like the turtles I get off the highway occasionally) can go out in the woods. Then there's loads of room for the dogs that sleep outside in the barn or in their pens. And then, there's the inside dogs -- otherwise known as the Goof Troop or Troublesome Trio (well, until Saffron came along). That's Kikyo, Tristan, and Logan -- of the three, Logan is the only one that we didn't willingly bring to live with us. He was a rescue stray pup himself.

Granted, it gets pretty stressful, and sometimes people make me feel pretty bad for having so many -- like I'm doing something bad or trashy by letting animals take up more time than other aspects of my life. "It's a lot to handle", they tell me -- as though I don't already know -- "Do you really think you can care properly for them all?" And of course, I know I can. We've had people come out and check them out to make sure they are all good. We were thanked at our old town because we were keeping a lot of strays from being put down by getting put in the pound. Sure, not all of our dogs have gotten spayed or neutered yet, but we're working on it. And, if by some chance, one gets pregnant, we care for the pups until they are old enough to find new homes, and then take them to said new homes, usually with a towel or blanket and some puppy food to help out the new family. To me, it's more than having a bunch of pets -- it's adding to my family and giving them love when no one else could.

---

Well, I hope you liked this post, and I hope it gave you some insight into my life outside of writing and college. Not to mention -- isn't Saffron just the SWEETEST?!?

~Angel

"You never forget who you really are... no matter how many nights you stay awake trying to."

2009-11-21T10:22:00.000-08:00

So, some of you know I messed my knee up like a three or so weeks ago, and that the pain has only gotten worse. Like, to the point of such terrible pain that sometimes I can hardly walk, and in the night it hurts so bad it keeps me awake.

Well, I managed to get in to see my Doctor last week, and it turns out I tore the cruciate ligaments in my knee. He told me I'd need a brace, a lot of rest, and that it wouldn't get better for quite a few weeks. Jooooy. No one is fond of the fact that during some of that healing time I have to go to college. At least, until finals are all done & we're out for Christmas break or winter break -- whatever it's called. They wanted me to take more days off, but we managed to agree I could go back 2 days later. I can't afford to miss a lot of class anymore. Especially with finals coming up.

Though, now, I keep tearing more ligaments up, and they are talking about making me go to the hospital. Worst case scenario -- surgery. Ugh... Not what I need right now.

---

"When one door closes another one opens; but we so often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door, that we do not see the ones which open for us” -- Alexander Graham Bell

So, life is going pretty alright right now. Minus the whole, ya know, knee being all messed up thing. I'm doing pretty good in college. I've got my schedule for next semester. I've been working really hard on getting the WIP edited and perfected so I can dispense it to my Beta Readers and Critique Partner before final edits and -- BAM! -- come January (hopefully) I'll be querying. Let's hope for an agent this time, shall we?

And, like the quote above, I've had some changes in my life lately that have brought some unhappy side effects and "closed doors". It took me a while to stop looking so regretfully at said door, but I finally managed to look away and notice the good things that are there. My friends that love me; my opportunity to make new ones. Success looming in the furture. I'm making plans for the rest of my life, and it's both exciting and terrifying.

But it's something I must do. Regardless if I'm ready or not ready, I have to get ready to land on my feet once I'm done at MAC (my college). I have to know what I'm doing, and where I'm going. Will I just go to MAC and spend the rest of my time writing? Or will I go on to do more things and persue a back up career? Will I move far away, or stay close to what I know? There's a million things on my mind that I've got to be ready to answer unless I want to fall on my face. I guess a lot of it is relying on whether or not I can get published and headed in the right direction before my time at MAC is done.

It's a crazy life, but I'm holding on for the ride.

---

So, my schedule, as previously mentioned, is as follows.

Drawing II MWF from 11:00 to 12:50
English Comp II MWF from 1:00 to 1:50
Intermediate Algebra MW from 3:00 to 4:15

And then on Tuesdays & Thursdays:

History of Art II from 8:00 - 9:15
American History II from 11:00 - 12:15
Color Theory from 1:00 to 2:50

That's 18 hours total. Wowza. At least I'll be done eventually -- hopefully sooner rather than later.

---

And I got most of the To Do list done. My honors stuff is done. My research paper was turned in this week. I turned in my short story to the editor I was talking about. So, I'm getting on top of the ball. Now I have less to do and more time for my editing. Not to mention, we've only got, like, three weeks of classes left. And that means LOADS of writing time for Angel. Like, I really think I may stay up all night quite a few times just to get even more done.

So, speaking of writing and editing, I should probably go do that now.

Adios!

~Angel

"Some die looking for a hand to hold."

2009-10-18T20:48:00.000-07:00

So, I was pretty relieved when I scratched some things off my To Do list at long last. Now I've just got:

- 6 papers and 3 art pieces.
- 1 paper for Art History
- Final edits on short story due to editor by Halloween.
- Edit/Revise WIP- Rewrite an older story (code name LWY)
- And whatever else comes my way.

Like half of that has to be done by November 6th. Of course the short story has until Halloween. The WIP needs to be ready for querying (or at least I hope it will be) by January. And I want to try to hammer out a rough draft for the LWY rewrite in November.

So yeah, I'm busy. Not to mention the Halloween related plans I have. Plus there is a project I've been working on that I hope to have ready by next Halloween that's going to seriously take a year of planning and work.

Aaaaand, stay excited, folks! Halloween ( My FAVORITE holiday, might I add) is just around the bend, and with that comes my first bit of in-print publication. I promise to link it to you guys so you can order you're little hearts out.

-----------------

I'm thinking about posting a series of blogs about the places I write, including pics. Anyone digging this idea?

~Angel

Boston and Salem Trip!

2009-09-30T15:54:00.000-07:00

Really, we did A LOT in the dew days we were in Boston, and I NEVER wanted to leave Salem. I actually hope to live in Salem one day. It's just so spectacular.

This was the view from our hotel in Boston. GORGEOUS, right?!

Not to mention, just across the street was King's Chapel - which, I believe, is the oldest cemetery in Boston. It was amazing!

That's my mom over there. You can tell which luggage is mine. *cough* Skull bag. *cough*

The very first day we got there, we went on a duck tour -- which was pretty awesome.

On the duck, we saw a car -- IN THE WATER!

I don't remember which day, but one of the days we went on a walking historical tour with a very entertaining guide.

She was one of my favorite things on the entire trip! I'd always wanted to see a real street performer! I tipped her and got a picture with her.

We went to the aquarium one morning. I loved the seals. ^_^ I bought a little seal stuffed animal and named him Bently.

Then, right after the aquarium, we went on a whale watch. This was one of the most amazing experiences of my entire life. You're feet away from these huge majestic creatures.

It's just... beautiful.

Salem:

We went on this really cool Haunted Footsteps tour through Salem that I really loved. We walked around in the dark and heard stories about some of Salem's grim past.

The above two pictures are from the House of Seven Gables. It was actually really cool, especially when Taylor and I (Taylor = the boyfriend) went up a secret staircase passageway!!

Taylor on the phone with his mom in one of the cemetery's the day before we left. Isn't he handsome? ^_^

More cemetery goodness.

I'm obsessed with the Salem Witch Trials, and was in love with the little tribute they had for the victims. They had all these little benches with the names of those that lost their lives. A lot of them had flowers and such on them. It was really touching.

Though we did a TON of amazing things in Salem, one of my favorite things was the Nightmare Gallery -- a museum with recreated horror movie legends!! They had everything from the classics, like Nosferatu, Dracula, Frankenstein, and The Creature from the Black Lagoon to more modern things, like Freddy, Jason, Pinhead, and some newer zombies. It was AMAZING!!!

I wish I would've gotten more pictures of all the things we did, but I was having so much fun DOING them that I just didn't have time!

Hope you guys enjoyed!

~Angel

Catching you all up. =]

2009-09-29T08:26:00.000-07:00

As usual, I have ten billion and thirteen things to do.

Like, for instance, the day after I got home, I had to go buy my college textbooks. Luckily, for me, I had scholarship money for my books, so I didn't have to pay a dime. I guess the stresses I put myself through are worth it.

College is going alright. It was an adjustment at first, but I think I'm getting the hang of it. I have a great GPA, at least. And I'm not failing Algebra. =]

And I'd like to tell you all that I am about to post this INCREDIBLE BLOG complete with PICTURES from BOSTON and SALEM -- but, I'm not. At least, not right now. I have a ton to do, as stated before, and a couple things have to be done before that. But I figured I'd be polite and let you all know I'm not dead, and that I did have a wonderful time.

I also finished the rough draft of my WIP, and while waiting to begin revisions, I'm working on an older manuscipt's rewrite. And my wonderful friend / critique partner just got through reading B.O.E. (to refresh: the manuscript sent out to agents) and gave me an AMAZING critique that I really needed. So, I hope to work on that a tad when I get a chance. But back to the WIP -- I hope to work my butt off to get it super shiny edited by January so I can start querying agents about it.

Oh yeah, I forgot to mention: I'm writing a play for my old high school that will be the spring play. The spring play is a HUGE deal, so I'm really excited to be writing it, as well as being a major part in the casting/directing process.

And I eventually have some articles coming out in print, but I don't know the exact date. I'll post when I know, and I hope that all of you will buy a copy or twenty. ;]

I kinda think I need to get away for a while again. I was thinking about New York in May. I might go to New Orleans sometime for a brief and cheap vacation. Either way, I want to get OUT OF MISSOURI.

Oh yeah -- Don't forget to check out the amazingness of my review blog:
http://angelyoungreviews.blogspot.com/

Well, I'm off to write (as usual).

~Angel

Be back soon!

2009-07-28T17:40:00.001-07:00

Thursday morning I'm off to Boston and Salem for a week! Try not to miss me too much!

Much blogging and blabbing about the trip when I return!

~Angel

Where to Begin?

2009-07-18T10:16:00.000-07:00

There is quite a bit I need to catch everyone up on over here. It's a little difficult figuring out where I should start.

- First things first: I traded out my London trip -- which I've been waiting to go on my entire life -- for a trip to Boston and Salem. Why, you may ask? Because I needed a car. And I am a girl that knows it isn't about what you want, it's about what you need. And I needed new wheels, since my truck went to truck Heaven. I now drive a Jeep. Liberty. And I leave for my trip the 30th of July, and return Aug. 5th. See you then!

- I have been fairly caught up in my review blog lately, because I was accepted into a group called Word Ninjas. It's a group of reviewers and authors working together. And it takes up quite a bit of my time.

- Something else that has been keeping me busy is my new photography business. Well, it's not exactly a business yet, because I'm building my portfolio still. But you get the idea. The myspace for my photography -- complete with pictures you should comment -- is on my top friends. Go forth, check it out, add it.

- My new WIP is going swimmingly. I'm at about 17,500 words. I want to complete it at or around 40,000. I didn't work on it for a while, then worked on it all night for two nights -- so really, if I set my mind to do it, I'll have it done ASAP.

- BOE, the manuscript that we had our fingers crossed for publication, was given to a beta reader (friend of mine) to see if she liked it, what she thought was lacking, etc. I need to work on it as soon as I get done with the WIP. I am too determined to get published to just sit back and let my manuscripts sit as reminders of my failures on my shelves. So when I'm waiting to go back and edit the WIP, I will edit and revise BOE once again.

- Oh, yeah. I've been keeping this one a secret for a while: I'm getting published. Nothing huge, though it still feels like it to me. I can't give you details at the moment. But once I can, and once it comes out, I hope you all order it. =]

I'm sure there is probably some more things I've forgotten to tell you all about. If I remember, I'll post them on a different blog. But there you have it -- my chaotic life at the moment!

----

So, has anyone else seen Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince yet? I have mixed feelings toward it. I mean, I liked it okay -- the book was so so SO much better. But how about you all?

~Angel

Coming Soon.

2009-07-16T08:41:00.001-07:00

So, I promise to have an AMAZING blog up soon, in which I catch up with you all.
I have some important updates reguarding writing, so stay tuned!
And I've got some other news, as well.But for today, all I can give you is my review for Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince:
http://angelyoungreviews.blogspot.com/

Go forth, my readers! Read. Comment. Follow. Pass along!

~Angel

Me, in the Media.

2009-06-25T13:27:00.000-07:00

I should so start keeping a list on the side bar of the blog of all the places I keep popping up. Like, for instance -- Wyman has written an excellent profile on my over on Jacksonville.com!

http://www.jacksonville.com/interact/blog/wyman_stewart/2009-06-24/author_in_profile_angel_young

Go read!

And don't forget about the review blog, Life's A Story -- this week is a special Chronicles of Vladimir Tod theme! INCLUDING an interview with Heather Brewer!

I'll post more soon! Promise!

~Angel

Getting motivated.

2009-06-11T07:35:00.000-07:00

I've been working on the review blog A LOT lately. I've got several reviews waiting to be posted, an interview, pending interviews, some other features -- including coverage of Heather Brewer's release party for Tenth Grade Bleeds. So it's going to be way busy over there. You all should go check it out and spread it to your friends. It's like an STD -- only a lot more pleasant!

http://angelyoungreviews.blogspot.com/

---

So, I have intentions of not leaving the computer until I've written AT LEAST 3,000 words on the new WIP (Work in Progress).
Because I want to get this freaking story done. So I can revise. And edit. And edit. And edit.
Then query query query.
Because BOE is currently getting nowhere at the moment. Which frustrates me. But Oh Well.

---

I also got a tattoo. I shall post pics eventually.
And I have amazingly crazy awesome news to share...on Monday. Yeah -- I'm making you wait. But it's worth it!

~Angel

I have returned.

2009-06-03T08:12:00.000-07:00

I apologize for my absence. You see, I graduated May 22nd. I spent all week getting prepared for my grad party on Saturday the 23rd. And you know what -- it was COMPLETELY worth it! Oh my God the stress was enough to make anyone go mad, but it was an absolute success! There were so many people, and we all had a blast. Several people I really wanted there didn't show, but I was still surrounded by friends. That was enough for me.
It lasted around 12 hours, which was kinda scary. Haha.
All in all, last weekend was amazing and exhausting.
And I LOVED it.
So, pardon the lack of Angel.
I've been on an emotional rollercoaster.
But I'll have a new review up soon.
And hopefully some good news.
----
What I need to be doing right now:
- Reading review books.
- Working on Thank You cards.
- Designing a tattoo I was hired to do.
- Finishing planning my trip to London next month.
- Cleaning.
- Sending out more query letters.
- Writing.
- Editing.
- Getting important secret things done.
- Emailing people about things.

What I AM doing:
- Blogging
- Watching TV from time to time.
- Reading comics.
- Staring at my notebook.
- Playing with the dogs.
- Playing on Twitter.
- Of course, Myspace.

I is a slacker.

But never fear! I got over two thousand words in on my new WIP yesterday, and I hope to get some more done today.
So, I am off to write!

~Ange

Type...type type...scribble scribble...

2009-05-10T13:03:00.000-07:00

Life has been crazy lately. But I'm okay with that.
And I've been all inspired today. So I write when I'm not cleaning. And I blast Blue October's new cd.
And thus, an idea I've been turning about in my head is taking form. Whenever my main character reveals a bit more info to me, I listen to him eagerly, and scribble down notes. Writing will be delightful tonight.
I saw the new Star Trek -- quite amazing, I must say. And I finished watching the first season of Dragonball Z last night; I've already bought the second season, but have yet to begin watching it. I may end up waiting until school's out. I have a lot to do to get ready for the graduation party.
Plus, I really need to finish reading both Angels and Demons (for contemp. novels) and Graceling (which I need to return to the library). I'll be sad to finish Graceling -- it's an amazing book. I love Katsa -- she's my hero. But I shall post a review for it on my review blog, which will be the kick off to my magnificent review-filled summer. Until something happens with my writing, that is. If I gets all agented and need to do lots of writing, I will more than likely sacrifice reviewing for writing.
Speaking of writing (when am I NOT? Honestly...) -- it has been a magnificent head-clearer lately. I am quite pleased to have the opportunity to come home and get the things done that need to be done, so I have plenty of time to write of an evening if I please. Or read. Or watch anime. Or whatever. And my blood pressure isn't sky rocketing anymore. It's like...amazingly amazing to be feeling this free. Like my heart isn't made of steel anymore -- it's nowhere near as heavy as before.
Well, back to cleaning. We have a new stove and fridge coming in tonight!

~Angel

Of glass, comics, and good moods.

2009-05-02T17:06:00.000-07:00

So, after basically FORCING myself to be happy on this already bleak and miserable day -- I'm feeling loads better. It's possibly just a temperary fix, but I try to hope for more.
---
So, I met this woman today that is pretty fantastic and actually helped influence my mood. She's an artist of sorts -- she does these jewelry sculptures and glass hangings and stained glass things... I mean, it's gorgeous work! We talked and she showed me some of her stuff, and I think I may even go learn how to do some of this stuff from her. She was fabulous, and quite the positive influence on my spirit.
---
Today was also FREE COMIC BOOK DAY!!! I love comics, so this day is like Heaven for me. Taylor usually goes with me, but he was in Jeff City for a photo shoot. So, it was just me today. I got a Batman comic half off and a TON of free comics. This, too, added to my better mood.
And, since it IS Free Comic Book Day -- I'm going to go see X-Men Origins: Wolverine tonight. I am SO excited! It has Gambit, and Deadpool, and Wolverine....*geeky squeal* I'm stoked.
---
Well, off to clean before the movie.

~Angel

Blogging to blog.

2009-04-30T19:49:00.000-07:00

So, I’ve been fairly down in the dumps the past three days. Hence, no everyday blogging. My head is killing me, I spent an hour asleep on my porch with nothing but my Watchmen bag to rest my head on in the rain while waiting for my mom to get home (I forgot my keys). And yet, I blog to blog -- to be here for my readers. ‘Cause I loves you and like the release of my fingers tapping away at the keyboard.
---
I have seriously been considering the idea that I may be Bipolar. My moods have been raging up and down, and it’s exhausting. Yeah, I know -- people (especially girls my age) have mood swings. But these are crazy. Big time crazy.
That or my depression is getting bizarre…
---
I’ve had some good things happen, which always make the world a little brighter.
As of today, it has been two weeks since Mr. Agent-Man emailed me and is supposed to email me back. Has he? No. Do I hope he will tomorrow, or Monday? Yes. Yes I do. Because waiting is starting to get nauseating. Which is yucky.
---
And I really need to start working on some things internet presence wise. I really think I’m going to start reviewing a lot more. Perhaps a lot of what I read -- ARC or not. I enjoy that. And I’ll guest review and whatnot. It’ll all be good.
---
I’m bummed I didn’t watch much Dragonball Z last night because of the stupid storming. I had to sleep downstairs. Ugh. I hope to catch up tonight.
---
So, how is the rest of the world out there? I’m down, hoping for good enough news to bring me back out of my rut.

~Angel

I (heart) My Blog

2009-04-27T19:07:00.000-07:00

As do I (heart) the readers of said blogs.

---

I miss New York. Like, I've been plotting some way to just magically appear there soon. Thank God I've chosen the profession I have -- publishers and agents alike hideout in New York. I see myself going back there A LOT.And no, that isn't one of my NY pictures. This is one of those things I'm thinking of adding to spice up the ol' bloggy blog. Pictures in the blogs. Yay, pictures!

---

I'm very VERY pleased that soon I can release one of my big secrets to you all. Like, I'm insanely excited. And wish to tell you now...but cannot.

Bummer...

I'm *supposed* to hear back from Mr. Agent-Man by or on Thursday. I'll give him until Monday. Then I shall go crazy with worry. Behold -- Angel the Worried.

---

I do plan to be more internet-active this summer. I'm going to bust my writerly bum to get out there, not to mention I'm going to start reviewing like a fiend. Everything I read -- BAM! On the review blog. So you all should start spreading the word about my blogging. ;)

---

Okay, off to watch MORE Dragonball Z and probably read..or something.

~Angel

Busy Busy.

2009-04-26T19:35:00.000-07:00

So, we've been working on stuff for the house like crazy this weekend. The Grad party is next month and we still have crazy amounts of work to do. Rawr, work. At least I put some stuff together for my room -- which makes me extremely proud. The sooner I get that mess organized and completed, the sooner my Obsessive-Compulsive Virgo self can be at peace.
---
Okay, so I confess: I have been babbling off to mom about random conferences and conventions I'd like to attend sometime next year. I swear, I'm going to make that woman crazy. Which is perfectly alright by me.So far, the two main things I've been stressing are BEA (Book Expo America) and RT (Romantic Times Convention). I'd be even more stoked if I were going as Angel Young, girl whose book is in the process of publication versus Angel Young, still the wanna-be.
*Sigh*
---
Well, what'd you guys thing of the poetry idea? Totally cool if you don't like it, I'm just sifting around. I like to give you guys something to look forward to, and since I can't have good news all the time, I figured a theme or something would be nice. Just a simple pleasantry.
Today, I'm going to throw out an idea that I actually may just start using every now and then for fun, just because I like it.
Quote:
" Happy are those who dream dreams and are ready to pay the price to make them come true."
-- Author Unknown
Fitting for me, I think. Dream dreams, my Scribblings. And fight like Hell to make them become your reality.
---
Well, I am off to draw and watch Dragonball Z. I think this may become a habit for me. Hmm.

~Angel

Just checking in.

2009-04-25T21:38:00.000-07:00

Hey all,
I don't believe I mentioned it, but I did join Facebook and Twitter for networking purposes. Twitter hasn't done a lot, but I've been branching out a bit more via Facebook. Go me and my bad self.I'm SO grateful to finally be feeling better. I did get my schedule for college next year. Yay for that! I'm very excited, though I'm absolutely turned off by the idea of algebra *gag* which is why I'm starting off in Elem. Alegbra and working my way to College Algebra. Maybe that way I can figure out what I'm doing exactly so I won't flunk out. Luckily, I seem to have all my classes with my Krissy, which makes the world of college seem a lot less terrifying. (hooray for having the same advisor/major) I don't remember my schedule off hand, but I'll post what the classes are (days & times are still a blur):
- History of Art I
- Elem. Algebra
- American History I
- 2-D Design
- Drawing I
- Wellness Center I
Fun fun. Sixteen credit hours to add on to the nine I'm already graduating with. Weeeee!
---
No word from Agent-Man, ladies and gents. He has until Thursday before I email him whining. Because I deserve to whine after nearly a year. And I swear, if he makes it to May 19th and doesn't reply, he'll get a Happy Anniversary email from yours truly--the smartass. You gotta love me.
Seriously. It's like...law or something.
---
So, I've been bugging people into helping me with the planning of my official "dot com" site -- 'cause I'd like to be ready when time comes for publication. You know, because I'm an obsessive Virgo like that.
I know a tad, like the first few steps, maybe. Otherwise, I am lost.
Any advice you can send my way is mucho appreciated.
---
So, I'm thinking, themed blogs.
I think I might test out a few, starting with one tonight. This theme shall be Poetry.
As in, my good readers, poems I find and feel I'd like to share with you. Tonight, I'd like to share with you one of my favorite poems. Remembrance by Emily Bronte:

Cold in the earth—and the deep snow piled above thee,
Far, far removed, cold in the dreary grave!
Have I forgot, my only Love, to love thee,
Severed at last by Time's all-severing wave?

Now, when alone, do my thoughts no longer hover
Over the mountains, on that northern shore,
Resting their wings where heath and fern-leaves cover
That noble heart for ever, ever more?

Cold in the earth, and fifteen wild Decembers
From those brown hills have melted into spring:
Faithful indeed is the spirit that remembers
After such years of change and suffering!

Sweet Love of youth, forgive if I forget thee,
While the world's tide is bearing me along:
Sterner desires and other hopes beset me,
Hopes which obscure, but cannot do thee wrong!

No later light has lightened up my heaven;
No second morn has ever shone for me:
All my life's bliss from thy dear life was given,
All my life's bliss is in the grave with thee.

But when the days of golden dreams had perished,
And even Despair was powerless to destroy,
Then did I learn how existence could be cherished,
Strengthened, and fed without the aid of joy;

Then did I check the tears of useless passion,
Weaned my young soul from yearning after thine;
Sternly denied its burning wish to hasten
Down to that tomb already more than mine.

And even yet I dare not let it languish,
Dare not indulge in Memory's rapturous pain;
Once drinking deep of that divinest anguish,
How could I seek the empty world again?
----

Now, I'm going to try out a few more of these themes, then have a special blog to see which you guys like, and which you don't. 'Cause I'm fun like that. ;)

---
So, I've been talking with my mom about going to the Romantic Times Convention, or Book Expo America next year. I'm really pushing for Book Expo. Sounds fabulous, does it not?
I'm all about the traveling and the book and the networking. ;)
---
I swear to blog more. Honest..
---

Anyway.
How are you all doing, my Scribblings?

~Angel

Finally, we're getting somewhere.

2009-04-16T11:52:00.000-07:00

So, I heard from Mr. Agent-Man at long last. He's taken my revised B.O.E. book one manuscript. Turned in my manuscript last night like a good girl.
I've been pretty sick since Saturday night. I haven't been to school all week. Tried to go to school today but was wayyy too sick and was sent home.
Now I'm relaxing, having myself another Batman marathon (I spent Tuesday watching most of my Batman movies). I just finished Batman Returns, and am about to put it Batman and Robin.
Yay me.
Whenever I get done I'm going to get to work on a new project. There is no rest for the hard working sick writers.
Except now, as I watch Batman movies...
Prom is on Saturday. Tomorrow I have Freshman orientation at the college. Joy.

~Angel

Mmmm. Updates.

2009-04-10T15:25:00.000-07:00

I've updated the site:
http://angelyoung15.webs.com/
Yummy.
----
I'm looking for some more FAQ's. Anything you guys wanna ask me??
And if you don't read Stephanie Kuehnert's weekly posts of Women Who Rock Wednesday, you should. I aspire to be interviewed one day for that...
Here's a link to her most recent interview:
http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendId=116728&blogId=480485187
They do rock. Every Wednesday.
----
I have that good news still--
but must continue to bite my tongue.

Darn.

Seeing in me now the things you swore you saw yourself.

2009-03-23T18:47:00.000-07:00

So, I have amazing news.
One of those secrets, you know.
Except...I'm not telling yet.
But boy oh boy -- once you hear...You'll be just as thrilled as I am.

---

So, I'm working on BOE edits so I can begin querying once more. And, considering my edits are nearly finished, I'm getting ready to start rewriting LWY so maybe, if BOE doesn't do so hot, I have LWY ready to attack the agents.
What? I'm prepared..

---

Alright. Writing time.

~Angel

Fighting to get caught up.

2009-03-18T16:05:00.000-07:00

So, I've been crazy busy. Blame Senior year, really. Luckily, I graduate in May. After that I should be relatively free as to time constraints. I start college in the fall, at some point in the summer I'm going on a trip somewhere (More than likely Ireland, though it was originally supposed to be England...). Otherwise...I think I'm in the clear to kick my lazy butt back into gear and get stuff done!
Remember summer time, when I blogged frequently, usually with useful info? Well, I hope to bring this idea back from the dead. Granted, I did just have an amazing interview, and I do have some more fantastic things coming up that are secret, I feel kinda...blah lately. Like I have nothing magnificent to share. That's a bummer, huh? Well, I intend to kick myself out of said bummer and get to work. I'm about to start querying again and everything. Go me.
I also need to work on my website and Scribblings. If you have any suggestions, send 'em my way. I may or maynot use them, but the input is always good. So are questions for my FAQ page.
Plus, my blog needs more readers. What's a blog without readers? Not a very good blog, that's what. And I intend to change that.
I plan to do great things. I plan to show the world what I'm made of and just what I can do.
Lookout, world -- I'm planning to be the next 'BIG' thing.
(Yeah -- I know I'm dreaming. But a girl can dream, can't she?)

~Angel

I've been interviewed!

2009-03-16T19:16:00.000-07:00

Check it out here:
http://360.yahoo.com/wyman_net
Obviously, it's the article with my name on it. =)

Thanks, Wyman, for hosting me!!!

----

I'll have more pleasant news coming soon!! Meanwhile, check out my interview and comment on Wyman's blog!!!

~Angel

Breaking from the chaos.

2009-02-19T20:39:00.000-08:00

I've been stuck in some insane choas the past few months. It's like every single time I get past some road block in my life, I hit another. Like, I'm getting pretty numb to the pain.

Like, my father died.

Some little punk is trying to take my best friend from me.

We STILL aren't completely moved.

A zillion things must be done.

I DID get accepted to MAC, the college before I go to Chicago (if I still choose to go to the School of the Art Institute of Chicago).

At least I hired a friend to be my 'assistant'. Basically, I'm paying her to come over and assist in what needs to be done. This, luckily, gives me a small amount of time to write and get writing related things done. Such as the revamping of queries, and the preparation to send more out -- considering I STILL have yet to get a reply from Mr. Agent Man. Rawr.

And, I have something in the works that is pretty exciting. But, before I can release said information, I have to confirm it. But if all goes as planned, it is a decent step forward for my writing career. Something magnificent to add to my query letters.

I haven't had time in all the craziness to work on The Affliction Chronicles. Granted, it's not that wonderful, and I'm considering condensing it and removing it from the internet for a secret purpose (an opportunity I'm temted to not pass up) -- it still must be worked on. What's super cool is the fact it's actually gotten Fan Art. How freakin' cool is that?? Very.

Well, time for some sleep.

~Angel

My Online Project is FINALLY Up!

2009-01-01T08:26:00.000-08:00

The Affliction Chronicles is up. You can view it here.

Enjoy! Comment Juliet's blog and let me know what you think!

~Angel

I'm working on something new.

2008-12-17T20:38:00.000-08:00

And it's a project I hope will:

1.) Increase my internet presence.

and

2.) Give me a pleasant new creative outlet.

And the really awesome part is--

it's an internet project.

As in, something I'll be posting online.

For my Scribblings.

Feel the love.

~Angel

Not Dead

2008-12-10T14:04:00.000-08:00

Okay, I know I have disappeared from both this blog and my website for a bit. If you had my Myspace account, you would know by now that life hit full blown chaos just after my last blog.

My boyfriend of over two and a half years got really sick suddenly, and we didn't think much of it for a while, because I had been pretty sick just before. Well, things continued getting progressively worse. Before we knew it, he'd been in the ER about three times and the doctors had no idea what was going on. After I had to go on a trip to St. Louis for a college portfolio review, I got a call from his mom that he was getting really bad and she was really scared and was taking him back to the ER.

Around an hour later I got another phone call. He was worse than anyone had realized. He'd gotten Steven Johnson's Syndrom and it was getting worse, so, to save his life, they were taking him to St. Louis (we live around an hour and a half south, in a small town) to a better hospital.

Luckily, after a week, there was improvement. For a while, we were all sure he wasn't going to make it. I hit a depression I couldn't shake. Even my writing came to a stop for a brief amount of time because then, none of it mattered.

Now he is back to perfect health though we have to watch out for him and make sure it doesn't start up again.

Well, Thanksgiving came along just a few weeks after all this. And now Christmas. We are buying a new house and moving January 9th. So, as you can see, my blogging life had to be put off briefly.

I am still writing. I just finished a rough draft for a short story I'm entering into a contest. I finished the third book in the BOE series, started the fourth. I've taken on new projects, been working on sorting out things for my future, and plotting to kick that Back-Up plan of mine into effect if I don't get anywhere with Mr. Agent-Man. I have to email him two weeks into January. Ugh.

So, in the middle of all this chaos and trying to hold my head above the water, I have been trying to find new ways to improve my blog, myself, my writing -- everything. I regret not being able to keep up with my blog, but sometimes we do what we must.

My apologies.

How is everyone?

~Angel

I have been a busy girl.

2008-09-08T21:13:00.000-07:00

So. I'll get this outta the way now.
I posted a new review on my new review/interview and whatnot blog:
http://angelyoungreviews.blogspot.com/
and I'm pleased to say I'll be guest blogging tomorrow at the amazing Brooke's:
http://www.myspace.com/brookereviews

My website has been undergoing some changes:
http://www.freewebs.com/angelyoung15/
And Horror-web, which will have some new kick-butt reviews from me as soon as I finish my two newest. And my Dark Knight soundtrack review...:
http://www.horror-web.com/
And soon I'll have up my interview with Stephenie Kuehnert! [Any authors interested in an interview, let me know. I'm more than happy to do one]
-----
Okay. Now that we have that junk out--
I've been writing on my third book in the BOE series. I need to edit the 2nd one. I wish I'd hear back on the first.
It gets stressful, you know.
Anyway. I've been writing. And working on stuff for the internet. 'Cause I love my internet friends. =]
How are you all? Korey, Sam, Mai, Megan, Noel, Brittaney? Wyman? Anyone else that should totally speak up right now and say HELLO!
I miss you all.
Like, bunches.
----
So. My loyal ones. Friends. Neighbors. Lend me your eyes.
I'd love to know some things. Like, what authors -- that I'm capable of getting ahold of and replying, mind you -- would you like me to try to interview? Any books I totally need to read? Changes to the website in need of making? Fanfiction I should be writing to entertain you and myself?
I love input. Honestly.
And more FAQ's.
'Cause asking me questions rocks.
I'm bizzare.
---
Off to write until I pass out!
~Angel

Books and other such wonderful things.

2008-09-04T14:48:00.000-07:00

I haven't had a chance to tell my darling Scribblings my good news:
I, Angel Young, am the Presdient of the Book Club! Bwahahaha! That sounds ways way dorkier than I had intended.
Anyway--
I'm not sure why, but I feel the need to write like crazy, and work on some art like mad, and bound about on stage like there is no tomorrow. I want to lock myself away inside my creative little head until I feel drained.
Ha. Yeah. I'm kinda weird.
---
Good -- no, GREAT -- news! I'm going to have more stuff up soon for the website! Wooot! Including an interview with the wicked cool author of I WANNA BE YOUR JOEY RAMONE! Sounds pretty sweet, huh?
I have some review stuff to get up soon, too.
Which reminds me --
You guys should check out Horror-Web.com
Horror buffs would dig it. Normal folks would too...Or so I believe.
----
I'm hoping I get around to a guest blog in October (I mean...for me to guest review somewhere.) I have the book in mind I want to review, too...
---
Back to La-La land..

~Angel

Dying to Catch My Breath

2008-09-02T21:26:00.000-07:00

So, um, this is a day I dread. I mean, today was a terrific day. But writing wise -- oh buddy, don't get me started.
I'm one of those believers in writing what I'd like to read. Today, I wanted a break. I didn't want to focus on any particular old story, but instead wanted to start a project with myself -- a Chapter-A-Day Write-What-You-Wanna-Read project. That's how BOE was started, anyway.
I love writing when it's pure and absolutely untainted like this. When I can produce a chapter or so a day and have the feedback from others to motivate me into a complete novel in no time.
Today, I wasn't so lucky.
So, I've kinda resulted to what I think I'm going to end up working on for a little while (or so I keep telling myself). It's a fantasy, one I am still exploring the world of, so I'm hoping the, like, three chapters I have won't taint my Chapter-A-Day, Write what you want to read, thing.
We can only hope.
'Cause I need the writing freedom right now. It mellows Angel out sooo much.
---
So, what do my Scribblings think of the changes to the Website? Like 'em?
I'm thinking of asking the author of the August Read of The Month for an interview. =]
I'll be reviewing again soon. I have to guest review sometime soon...
And I need to get more active at Horror-Web.com.
All of which I will do, because I'm catching up.
Catching my breath.
----

~Angel

Backspace Conference

2008-09-01T00:09:00.000-07:00

So, I’m a lazy hobo and never got around to posting about the Backspace conference. Yeah, I know. I’m nearly a month behind.
So, Day One at said conference, I was terrified outta my freakin’ mind. I mean, I was at a Writer’s CONFERENCE. With other writers. I know I should’ve felt like I’d be at home, but I was petrified. First thing on my agenda was my Two Minutes Two Pages session with two agents and a bunch of other writers. I think this was probably what had me so scared, because I had to sit in a little conference room at one of those long business tables and read from one of my stories. Out loud. As one of the youngest people there.
Yeah, I thought I would die.
Well, it actually went really well. I got great feedback, both were interested (did I mention one of two said agents is the one that requested BOE? That added on to my dread) and I got one of the best responses. The rest of the day I was perfectly fine. I attended some panels, had lunch with mom, went back to a few more panels, and left. In the midst of all this, I met several people, occasionally was dragged around by Heather to meet people. That night I hung with Heather Brewer, Jackie Kessler, A.S. King, Lisa McMann, and a bunch of other new friends at the cocktail reception thing. That was great fun.
As you can guess, Day Two wasn’t nearly as terrifying.
I got up, went to the Conference, attended some panels, chatted with some new friends, had lunch with Heather and a bunch of other writers (and mom. Can’t leave her out), went to some more panels, socialized some more (I met and befriended a humorous editor at Cosmo), then went back to the room and crashed a little while before going on this night city-lights tour thing.
I learned a lot, yet didn’t. It’s hard to explain. I learned a few things, added a little to stuff I already knew, and then got a lot of refreshing.
But it was a great experience, all in all. It felt weird coming home. No more breakfasts, lunches, or dinners with fellow writers or authors. No more excitement. No more constantly busy city full of amazing people.
I was back to being small-town girl, Angel Young, that wants to be an author.
It’s a hard fall, coming back down to reality.
Now, let’s hope I hear good things on that manuscript soon.

~Angel

Sweet Chaos

2008-08-12T12:25:00.000-07:00

I've been MIA, as you may have noticed. I am SOOOO sorry.
I'll have to update later completely, but life has just been crazy lately. I did go to the Backspace Conference ( I just came home from New York yesterday) and had an amazing time.
Again, I'm sorry I disappeared, but I shall be active more! Just gimme a few days to recover and relax...

~Angel

The Verdict Is...

2008-06-30T21:55:00.000-07:00

Ladies and Gentlemen, I am pleased to annouce, I will be attending the 2008 Backspace Conference in New York! YAY!
More bloggy goodness tomorrow!

~Angel

The Big, Bad, Back-Up Plan

2008-06-27T20:47:00.000-07:00

I'm still waiting, still riding along with my good feeling that I will get represented by said dream-agent, but I'm a virgo -- I plan. Excessively. Which includes my back-up plan just in case things don't go as planned. So, I have this strategy I've got worked out.

For instance, there's the Backspacer critiquing my manuscript. I need that feedback. I need to know it's worth it.

If it is, I'll take the advice and work with it, figure out the flaws, tighten the manuscript. Polish it to blinding point, when an agent can't resist. Then, it's gleam will rub off on publishers, and they'll want a deal. See my genius?

I've got my second round of query people ready. I'm going to shine up my query and synopsis to max level. Maybe throw them at the Backspacers, see if they can help.

In the mean time, I'll work my butt off on my other manuscripts and short fiction. I'll try to get some short fiction published, get my name out there. I'll keep up my reviews on Horror-Web, get more going on my blog. Try to gain more Scribblings.

I'm going to seriously work my fingers to the bone. I want this, and I want it bad.

I almost cried today, because someone very, very important to me that has drastically changed my life said they honestly think I will make it. (I'm not revealing the identity, though I know this person should know that she did it. If not I'll have to poke her.) Hearing this makes my world keep revolving. Makes me want to keep pressing forward through the hardships.

I will make it, it's only a matter of time.

Of The Writing Life and Encouragement

2008-06-26T16:34:00.000-07:00

I'm a writer. I love it. I suffer through various steps to try and get my little darlings out there into the big wide world. It's tough, tougher than I ever imagined when I first decided I wanted to be a writer.
And I know the minute I can get my work out there, or hear from someone in the biz that it is good, or hear from someone impartial that it's good, then I know it was all worth it. Every single drop of blood, every single tear. All worth it.
But still, it warms my heart when someone I know reads something of mine and enjoys it, honestly. And it really makes my day if it's outside the typical genre the read or something they typically can't stand, and they love it.
Writer's have what is known as Ideal Readers. Someone they subconciously have in the back of their mind as they write. Almost wondering to themselves what that person will think of the tale. Maybe not every writer does. Stephen King does, and I figured out, not too long ago, that I do too.
My ideal reader would be my best friend Krissy. My tiny little bundle of joy, heh heh. She's been reading what I writer since it was terrible. She read my fanfiction, my poetry, my earliest writings, my rough drafts, my revisions -- all of it. She's helped me stay motivated to write by giving me deadlines, told me if something didn't make sense, and spent countless hours pointing out my mistakes and highlighting errors (and, occasionally, highlighting for fun.). I know that she's read the story that an agent is looking at probably ten or more times, and still loves it.
If something ever does come about with my writing, especially the story I'm working to get published right now, she's going in every single acknowledgment, and getting a dedication, and whatever else I can get for her (whether I have buttons, t-shirts, whatever). She is always there, has always been there, and will always be there. She's that person that you know you'll have forever, no matter where you go. She encourages me after rejections, celebrated when my manuscript was requested, and pushed me to keep going even when I thought it was pointless.
Another person that inspires, motivates, and encourages me is my loving boyfriend, Taylor. He stands by my side, helps me research and checks my facts, reads over things, and keeps me going. When I got my first rejection, he said "Yay! You know what that means? One step closer to getting published. And presents for Angel time!". He might just be getting my first dedication, if Krissy doesn't.
My mom, though we fight and bicker more than any mother and daughter should, is one of my biggest fans. She helps me edit, funds my existence, and encourages me. She is a great reference, and tells me flat out if something is wrong, missing, or confusing in a story.
Last, and in no way least, is Heather Brewer. She's opened the door and let me into the Writing World. Her success inspires me. I can ask her a million questions and she'll answer every one of them. She convinced me to join Backspace, which is teaching me so much, and is teaching me things to better my career, like getting me to go the the Backspace conference, which is going to do wonders. She's a wonderful author, the best mentor, and a terrific (will you smack me for calling you this?) friend.
These people aren't the only people that are helping me in my journey to become a published writer, but they are some of the most signifcant. The people I can't help but be thankful to and grateful for. Without them, I'd be nowhere near where I am right now.
There are only a few weeks left to wait before I find out about my manuscript. Keep your fingers crossed and send me good vibes. I've got a good feeling, but also know that if I don't get it, I'll get over it. I'll get rolling on the next steps -- getting out short fiction, soaking up as much info from the Backspace community as possible, and rewriting my manuscript. I'll get out my second list of queries, work on some other WIP's that I want to get out there. There are several roads I can travel on. I just want to know which way I'm going so I can adapt.
Back to the life of an aspiring author.

~Angel

(p.s. Wyman, you deserve honorable mention, because you've been so wonderful and supportive after all this time. Thank you so much.)

Backspace Writer's Conference 2008

2008-06-25T21:37:00.000-07:00

I'm beyond excited right now. Why's that, you may ask? I may be attending the 2008 Backspace Writer's Conference in New York in August! I'm so freaking stoked. You have no idea. Unless my mom decides I can't go, at which time I would cry and then eventually get over it.
But I reaaaaally wanna go. I want to shmooze with others in the biz, hang with my author buddies, learn as much as I can. I. Cannot. Wait. This can do wonders for my career.

I also got my ACT scores back, which I really stressed over. I only wanted to take it once, so I went in hoping I'd get the score I need for college. Wel.....I GOT IT! And then some. I'm beyond happy about that. Haha.

I also got my Horror-Web.com stuff in today. I love my hoodie. It's so soft, and warm...Heehee.

Well, I'm off for now. Toodles.

~Angel

Well, it's been a while...

2008-06-21T19:32:00.000-07:00

I only have a few more weeks of waiting -- hopefully -- left. I'm really excited, because this is my dream agent. I know not to get upset if I get turned down -- that merely means I can revise it and try again. It gives me the opportunity to make some of my other WIP (work(s) in progress) some needed TLC and let them have a try at the publishing world while my currently submitted manuscript would take time to seek it's full potential. Plus, there is the reassuring fact that I have made it considerably far for my age. That really gives me drive.

So, I've become the newest reviewer for Horror-Web.com! I have my first review up, which was surprisingly helpful. When I submit a review to the guy in charge, he critques. I mean, really critiques -- which I love (though it terrifes me to think of hearing criticism). A lot of my new writing buddies on Backspace (which I'll get to in a moment) have been way supportive, telling me how wonderful an opportunity this is for me. I can see why -- It gives me some understanding of what it will be like to have an editor, to have someone go through something I wrote and say "This works; this doesn't". I mean, I have a few wonderful people that read my stuff now and let me know if there is something that doesn't quite fit. But they are, sadly, biased slightly. I want a good critique, and I usually get "You forgot a letter here." or "What did this mean?" or "I don't get this bit -- otherwise, wonderful!" I love and appreciate their time and help, but I need someone to really give me a good swift kick in the butt sometimes. I also consider myself lucky because the owner of the website that critqued so well offered to help me in my fiction by giving his critique of that as well!

Okay, I mentioned Backspace a moment ago, but haven't gotten around to explaining that yet. Some of my published buddies are on Backspace, a writing community online (a very supportive & informative one, at that!), and they reccomended that I join. I was a tad worried at first, because sometimes I feel like I'm just a little kid standing in a crowd of adults, trying to explain I'm one of them. Not that I'm calling everyone old. I just feel like everyone judges me by my age, not my writing ability. On Backspace...I don't feel like an outcast, I feel like I belong. It's incredible.

Oh, Wyman, if you read this -- Thanks a million for your wonderful support and kindness all this time. Reading your comments and chatting with you always makes me smile.

I should be a little more active online soon. I've been 100% swamped lately. But I'm working on returning to my internet family.

~Angel

Could it be...?

2008-05-19T19:41:00.000-07:00

Perhaps. It very well could be.
I got my first request from an agent about my manuscript. An agent wants to read it.
Oh. My. God.
Is this real?
Is it possible I'm about to make the mega step to becoming a published author?

~Angel

Surreal.

2008-05-17T22:44:00.000-07:00

Just so you know, I'll be blogging more frequently, and producing more quality blogs. This is my last week of school, thus more free time. Yay!
---
Life:
Calming, slowly. I'm always so darn busy this time of year. But I'm starting to get my breathing room back. More free time, more blogs and more writing.

Writing:
I've done it. I've sent out my queries to some literary agents. I'm close to achieving my dream, or at least closer than I have ever been. It leaves this surreal feeling.
Hopefully I find an agent that wants to represent me and my work.
I'm working on some rewrites of other stories in my spare time. Let's hope for the best somewhere, huh?

Currently Reading:
"Ninth Grade Slays" by Heather Brewer.

Currently Listening To:
Artist - Death Cab For Cutie
Album - Narrow Stairs

-Angel

Long Overdue

2008-04-23T14:34:00.000-07:00

Life:
Okay, so I've been sort of busy the past few months. I ask you for your forgiveness. March through May are my generally busy months. And, considering I am starting my senior year in August, things are a tad chaotic. I'm trying to get everything ready and all that.
Writing:
Working on some older stuff write now and taking a breather from my manuscript. It needs a good rewrite (saying that makes me want to puke). I'm also working on some short fiction to submit to magazines, etc. Busy, busy, busy.
Blog/Site:
I promise to get things updated soon on both my site and the blog. I'm thinking of merging them, if I ever figure out how. Haha.

~Angel

And then there were eight-thousand...

2008-02-24T09:37:00.000-08:00

Currently listening to: "Crimson" album by Alkaline Trio

Hey Blog readers!

Well, I'll keep this blog short but sweet.

I want my manuscript, when completely edited, to come in at roughly 40,000 words. Sadly, it is only 32,000. See the issue?
Well, only eight-thousand words. Not too much, eh?

No, it isn't.

So, I'm going to go get to work on that!

~Angel

First Blog

2008-02-14T22:24:00.000-08:00

Hey loyal Blog readers!
Or, um, hopefully-soon-to-be loyal readers.
Well, this is my first blog on this blog, so I figure I'll use it as a way of introducing myself to you.
I am a seventeen--working on eighteen-- year old Junior (Senior in August) that has a strong passion for fine arts. My chosen path in life is literature. I love to read, to write. To learn. Writing is my favorite hobby and I take great pride in what I do. I intend to get my Masters in Fine Arts with Emphasis in Writing. Though I pray that writing will work out for me, I also plan to consider teaching--creative writing, possibly literature or some such classes.
My interests vary, though most tend to deal in the fine arts. Obviously I love reading and writing. I also do a lot of artwork and acting. I love listening to music. (Oh yeah, I'm a rocker girl--though I do love all sorts of music.). My other interests include:
Archery. Theatre. Poetry. Love. Japan. Anime. Night time. Philosophy. Psychology. Good Old Romance. Wolves. Meeting Authors and Comedians. Art by Victoria Frances. Taking long walks. Rain. Working in haunted houses. Going to bookstores. The Phantom Of The Opera. Creativity. Photography. Candles. Dragons. Comics/Manga. JTHM. Movies. Horror. Video Games. Swords/Knives. My friends. My pets. Mythology. Vampires. Werewolves. Nature. Understanding. Individuality. England. Traveling. Knowledge.
Yeah. I'm a girl of many interests.
I am in a relationship--with my knight in shining black armor. Two years and going very strong.
I'm quirky, with a sick sense of humor. I like to goof off and have fun, though I know when to be serious.
And this, ladies and gents, is my first blog. I swear they'll get more interesting from here on out!

Interested? Want to know more? Add me on myspace:
myspace.com/lifes_a_story
Just give me a little message to inform me you read my blog, so I know where you came from. =)
Currently Listening to: "Ghost Train Out" by The Vincent Black Shadow

The Scribblings of an Aspiring Author

Fall is approaching..

Alive again.

Back on Track

No One Can Beat Me Now

Braaaaaains!...

Playing Catch-Up

The Newest Member of the Family

"You never forget who you really are... no matter how many nights you stay awake trying to."

"Some die looking for a hand to hold."

Boston and Salem Trip!

Catching you all up. =]

Be back soon!

Where to Begin?

Coming Soon.

Me, in the Media.

Getting motivated.

I have returned.

Type...type type...scribble scribble...

Of glass, comics, and good moods.

Blogging to blog.

I (heart) My Blog

Busy Busy.

Just checking in.

Finally, we're getting somewhere.

Mmmm. Updates.

Seeing in me now the things you swore you saw yourself.

Fighting to get caught up.

I've been interviewed!

Breaking from the chaos.

My Online Project is FINALLY Up!

I'm working on something new.

Not Dead

I have been a busy girl.

Books and other such wonderful things.

Dying to Catch My Breath

Backspace Conference

Sweet Chaos

The Verdict Is...

The Big, Bad, Back-Up Plan

Of The Writing Life and Encouragement

Backspace Writer's Conference 2008

Well, it's been a while...

Could it be...?

Surreal.

Long Overdue

And then there were eight-thousand...

*First Blog*

First Blog