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Advance Sneak Peeks and Film News
Sunday morning with the family, sipping coffee and reflecting back on a busy but productive work week. We've had some pretty snow as of late and not quite the arctic chill. Don't get me wrong thin blood residents of warm places – Michigan has been cold. It has just been warmer but I hear a few more storms coming through. In Michigan the Great Lakes give some protection and many storms pass beneath us. Before the film updates let's talk about another passion – soccer. Futbol to my non-USA friends, speaking of that, it was so great to see so many of you joining us.
I play in a Men's League as many of you know. I've played in the 30+ league for many years since I was 29 likely. I LOVE the battle. I play to win but if I'm not badly injured and I get a good work out, it's a win in my book. Us older warriors know just like in battles of old. You don't need to be better every moment of every day of the week, just those moments. I have to be better for two hours, an often I am. I had my first sideline injury second half of last year with a wrist crack. Heavy tackle with another determined badass that sent the ball rocketing into my wrist. Just a freak mishap. Two season back I had my first nagging knee issue but that got better. Martial arts and soccer have put my body through the paces. I'm hardened by it for sure but I'm just being more conservative. My little bro has played with us since he aged in at 29 and that has been an ongoing joy. He has dealt with his own few injuries but he has also been playing both 30+ and 40+ league. He started thinking of downshifting as 2X week = 2X the joint wear and tear and 2X the chance of serious injury. Now the 40+ team started with a good buddy of mine and I from Sexton days and playing over in Denmark. We created a team whereas our old teammates could battle with us again. Now many of those people have retired their cleats. I've decided to join my brother in the 40+ league only. I exercise every day but you have to vary the routine. You don't do arms day, arms day, arms day…okay maybe some do. It was hard because I love the team we formed and played with for so many years. It also felt like a demotion or admitting of our age. But again, if I can play hard and get the work out, uninjured and spend time with my brother, good deal. So a new chapter. That said I will likely miss games in May with film work. Let's talk film shall we.
It has been a time of harvest even as we begin to prep the planting of new seeds.
THE CHRIST SLAYER – The 3rd film in The Quest Trilogy. It has been released on digital and I've had just some beautiful 'fan-mail' sent to me expressing their appreciation and love of the story. This includes someone who had pirated the film in India. This had happened on another film 'Darkest Night' which brought out fans who had not paid to watch. Now, I've seen some of the living conditions elsewhere whereas an entire extended (way extended) family live in a one room dwelling. Entertainment is often storytelling (beautiful), music or the family gathered around the one TV and DVD player. If the film stolen or not is playing and bringing some joy via our story, let good karma be our payment. But, if you can afford. Please do rent or buy it. It hurts the little guy filmmakers and makes it harder to make films. It is hard enough already. Go back to my first blog entries and start reading. It was a good conversation and now he just may promote our cause.
Also last week I said that all these films have seen a point whereas they were attacked. Many people are mad at actions and words uttered or done by people claiming to be faith authorities. The films are for entertainment and to provoke thought. I claim to be an expert of zero. I have no time to argue any points as I'm working on the next story. But I've seen at least one guy vocally slam the film without watching because I'm white. Whatever that means in our generation of DNA. Test yourself and hate will diminish as many find out we are all brothers and sisters. But is Brad Pitt Greek? The Rock? We were not making any statement on race, watch WILD FAITH for that:) It is a story of LOVE, microcosmos and macrocosmos. If the guy watched it and hated it, likely he would because people get out what they bring in. At least he was speaking about something he saw. Just like people can BUY bundles of IMDB star meter hits, amazon ratings, etc…always a bunch of 1's and 2's appear overnight from unknown sources. I think again because Jesus is a figure in the story. A version of him is on the cover. So people wronged by an organized religion or so-called expert in faith they carry a deep hate. That usually comes out on the mysterious J-Man. I've been right on par with people disgusted by what I've seen. The Jim Baker 80's was…well you know. I just like the idea of looking at 3 times – BIRTH, BEFORE any of the organized stories. (See Chasing the Star) – BEFORE any ministry. (See Forty Nights) and – AFTER any ministry – death to rebirth to…watch The Christ Slayer. These stories dance around the dirt that has soiled the image of any organized ministry for many people. For people within organized bodies who want to exalt themselves and proclaim faith expertness, have at it. But I value every persons ability to evaluate. So even if you see Christianity as legit as the Jedi Academy in Star Wars, take a watch. The core tenets, the seeds, are interesting. And yes, all three films were produced to present the stories in a very Star Wars-like way. I think the translation is actually quite cool. We kept the same amazing DP, Mr. Jesse Aragon. The most awesome music composer I know, Dennis Therrian. And the best keys and directors we could convince to go on a journey. Those that possess desert stripes know. Our cast and crew got one for each film. I will remember those films and the making of them forever.
Tomorrow is DVD March 4th and April 19th is the event theatrical showings for Easter. My 'faith film' watching consisted of Chuck Heston biblical epics at Christmas and Easter. That is my influence so even if you have never stepped a foot in church please take a watch. If you kneel on a rug facing East to pray – please take a watch. No-Jesus Jewish, take a watch. Atheists take a watch. Just watch a cool trilogy unfold that is not just about mankind but the angels – fallen and not. I will continue to occasionally enjoy your comments but don't hate to just hate. At least watch it. Oh, and pay for it:) Stealing is stealing, rhyming and stealing' …
SIDE NOTE: I've been reading the Beastie Boys Book, a bio on the bank. It is very cool to read their journey. They have had the up's and down's of all artists.
WILD FAITH – This machine is about to kick off with the March 23rd national theater release. This came about because of the limited run we do last year. The film looks and sounds even better and we've added something special. Also we'll be releasing the new poster work. I will leave you with this DOVE review and it just may contain a few surprises teases.
DOVE FAMILY FILM review of WILD FAITH
We've been dealing with final paperwork, approved releases/photos and such. I'm really excited to go back into the theater and see this film. You will also be able to pre-order the DVD later this month.
MBF: Man's Best Friend
I got to spend the week watching and re-watching scenes and taking notes. The film this week is being prepped to travel to Dennis Therrian. Dialog clean up will be first and sound design and music will follow. The film is really powerful and I'm so happy for everyone involved. For me filming was heavy, representing the actual wounded. I also was told by furry best friend had cancer and it was a battle for time. It was a shoot that was hard to squeeze 'fun' from. But I think it worked for the film and it will be a good tribute. Once the picture moved to post audio we'll color correct and cut a new trailer from the final cut of the film. Good stuff ahead.
Last week we released a casting call for an 8-12 year old-young actress. We've been getting some great looks at performance. On the 'Lost Heart' Facebook site people have been dropping their dramatic reels. Thank you. We'll keep reviewing. We have a least one role that is a younger version of a casted role still coming. So we're waiting to cast the larger older role before casting the younger version. This week director Jesse Low and I spend two days and many hours reviewing the script. We're getting close to a locked production script. We've also been scouting Northern Michigan locations and starting talks with lodging options. We're still presenting to investors but we've had progress there. It is always a timing issue but things are coming together.
My advance casting announcement is for Mr. Austin Two-feathers and Greg Mason, both have participated in a handful of CDI pictures. Unique talent is always what we're looking for and these two gents have just that. So you heard it here first:)
I have two commercial VO's that have been pushed a week. You never know who those voices on those commercials belong too:) I enjoyed a fun meet-N-greet with a filmmaker from the Detroit area who has been making moves. I've seen them come and I've seen them go. Some move away but many more fade away. I think this individual has his heart in the right place and his previous accomplishments had prepared him to lead. You need good leaders to make a market work. I stated and I'll state again, this is where I plant my flag. I'm a Michigander 4 LIFE. I travel but this is home and I will keep this as a base for making film. People chase all over seeking that short cut but many come to realize "it's not the location but the motivation" – Trademark DJ Perry:) This meeting was a chance to swap war stories and get to know one another. Every collaboration I've ever had usually started with a few drinks and talking about dreams. We'll see where it all goes but I see a second meeting in the near future.
Alright my friend. I'm on the last cup of coffee and today we're taking our baby boy Finn to a puppy play. He just hit 45 lbs at six months and still looks like he has a lot of growth still in him. He has truly been a joy. Have a great week. Add a DVD (The Christ Slayer) to your collection.
Buy the DVD here:
I hope you all have a great week.
Home is Michigan
Again Michigan is covered in a blanket of white snow. I know that many of you are from various parts of the world. Welcome readers from S. Korea and Burma. How wonderful that all these artistic people have found our little corner of the internet. My hazelnut coffee is going down easy and I've got a list of updates on several of the projects. This morning I did take a stroll through the Facebook which has kind of replaced the newspaper sadly. I usually find science articles to read and enjoy certain animal posts that highlight how intelligent and soulful animals truly are. Where to begin?
I commented on a fellow filmmaker's vent this morning. In short – a disdain for people who have more resources or who falsely claim experience. It's a problem but one that usually works itself out. We use to lovingly refer to it as The Oregon Trail. For us older people it was a TSR-80 game. But in real history it was a rugged journey that resulted in many dying and being buried along the Oregon Trail. We use that saying to describe the many in our business who perished along the trail.
Many people have long-wondered what the "trick" is at CDI to producing their content. First, there is no trick. It is a logical checklist of work that must be done in a particular order. You can refine that over time but this takes an effort. Good management of people is something that you cannot buy for yourself. There is no piece of equipment you can purchase that will motivate good work flow. Some of the secrets, if you wanna call it that are…
- Hire artists firsts not friends – you can become friends (True definition not Facebook's) through shared art, dependability, accountability and positive collaboration. But to assign/hire someone unqualified for a crew or cast role out of friendship hurts the collective endeavor and often the friendship. Don't set people up to fail. Don't let preventable failure lower the quality of your projects or worse yet – kill it. I think for young filmmakers that is where these 48 hour film challenge things help. With a youthful generation of highly creative, technology-adept youths INTERPERSONAL COMMUNICATION is a learned skill. It is easy to be disrespectful, behind a computer. But these comments in the real world to a real person, can get you kung fu'd, fired or create a poison in an otherwise productive creative atmosphere.
- Chiefs. I'm talking to company owners. I'm talking to producers, director and keys. You all set the tone for the environment. Define the roles ahead of time. Don't figure it out as you go. Producers have months or years of development work before any camera roll – use it. Creative MUST respect the Business machine and the business must respect the artistic contributions that will elevate it above being a mere formula genre film. Only strong leadership can walk this balance between the two and enforce this kind of collaboration. NEED vs WANT…KNOW the DIFFERENCE.
- Follow Through – this means the same in micro as in macro – for anyone in the chain of execution. You NEED people with follow through or they're simply a negative – excuses not withstanding. It does not matter what the creative potential of an individual is if they're not able to follow through. This should always disqualify/limit a person from leadership. Now you can put creative slackers under a disciplined key so they can be exposed and maybe learn from leadership. Ego will sometimes make them reject the chain of command if they feel they are a superior artist. The best artist in our world has follow through and a "best effort" positive attitude. Again, the best artist is not always JUST the best artist but the best artist with follow through. If a creative caterer made half a crew lunch = fail. Someone at go time had collected only half the props = fail. Wrong instructions as to where to park support vehicles = fail. Hundreds of things a day can cause strife on a film set if your team is not properly prepared. Be prepared.
- Help is not weakness – many people have not learned the many important lessons from managing projects of various sizes and budgets. People need to know when to say NO or to seek out and hire the proper experience. But either greed or fear of loss of power, causes many to sell themselves onto projects that they are truly unqualified for. F- YOU DJ! YOU GOTTA START SOMEWHERE! Okay. Settle down, I hear you:) Now in the beginning, I might have been one of those people. But, I did qualify as a doer of many other things. Some of these things small and some large in other areas of my life. I have always been someone who has a natural drive to GET IT DONE if I'm behind something. Investors saw that eye of the tiger in me. Investor interest seldom comes from a fancy fluff package or a regurgitation of business buzz words – more often that investor see's or feels something in you that was/is akin to his own inner fire.
OK. I need to save a little wisdom:) But I try to keep a pulse on this Michigan film community. I see positives and negatives. Michigan has always fought the 'backwoods' mentality given to us by Hollywood. Funny thing is much of the Hollywood elite is midwestern. But I will say that I see improvements. Tax incentives gone – my opinion – it never should have been about drawing work to Michigan but development of work from within Michigan. But it did help legitimize filmmaking as an acceptable title here in Michigan. Ask old-timers and MI filmmakers from the 80's and 90's, about being called a filmmaker. It was like telling your family you want to be an astronaut. It was usually met with a sideways stare and a loss of words.
Now people don't sideways stare at me they simply want to know when the next film releases. They tell me they have young children interested in filmmaking. It's great to see the parent support of these young dreamers. I burned out on festivals a decade ago but I respect all the great festivals our state has to showcase, network and nurture our creatives. I watch the yearly migration to the west coast where people learn that the increase in opportunities is usually matched by the increase in applicants. But many have to experience it. I will be out there for a week on some business this month. I'm looking forward to seeing some friends and associates. Oh, and the sun. But after a few I must return home. Home is Michigan.
Shane Hagedorn's big shoulders to carry his first feature
We master the film off this week and I've got some meetings coming up over home video/foreign. The TV series is something that I've been aggressively chasing. I think it would be great for Michigan. I know a few other TV series working to get traction. How great would it be to have a string of TV shows happening. We've also been hard at work on securing theaters. We'll be announcing soon as several deals are almost done. I do truly love the genre and I think it would be great to see weekly as a show. Once you watch the movie let me know.
If you cannot wait and need a fix of 1800's action/drama our Civil War film "Wicked Spring" is getting a re-release 16 years later. 18 years from when cameras first rolled. We shot the pre-war and war stuff in two separate shoots and areas. I'm waiting for the streaming link to go live on amazon. 2/5/18 is supposed to be digital release date. DVD's on 3/5/18. Here is the new cover that the distributor settled on. It has one of my favorite pics from the shoot and it is of Anthony Hornus, who played the Union commander. Also that's Michigan's Brad Egan front and center marching forth.
Look for this cover that has the remastered film. Also the DVD includes a 45 min Making of that is a wonderful look back at producing 18 years ago. Please do take a watch.
Cool look at the TOP Civil War Films
We'll be posting places you can buy/rent as they go live on
Wicked Spring Facebook
Are you ready for another look at Part 3 of…
Forty Nights and Chasing the Star are working into more platforms and networks. The push will start for Easter sales. I'm excited that the poster and movie trailer for The Christ Slayer part 3 is almost done. As if the excitement of "Wild Faith" wasn't enough this first full trailer will allow BMG to start promotions. It is amazing the scope of it all and it brings the greater story of the trilogy together and answers many questions.
SIDE NOTE: Forty Nights is part one and if you don't know I play Jesus. I'm over due on a few character reels but this one was hard. When you're in about 70 min of a 88 min film or so and you are looking for 2-3 min sizzle it can prove to be…difficult. My actor/filmmaker buddy Shane Hagedorn knew I've been very busy the last few years working on the whole. He surprised me with a character reel of Jesus. I will be sharing that with you all in the coming days. I always ask that one good role just gets me one more. This will come in handy as I've got a few things in the works hence the LA trip.
Many have asked me what's next for me on-screen. As we're always working on delay – this year you can watch me as mountain man Ben Lily in "Wild Faith" and reprising my role as Jesus in "The Christ Slayer" film. I've got some good film role options that I'm not at liberty to discuss. It might be the year that several development collaborations pop. I can say that the main focus for me is MBF. (Man's Best Friend) We've accepted collaboration with a military non-profit http://www.theredwhiteandblueproject.org/ that has done some great things in the past for our soldiers. They want to off-set some of our military cast/crew costs and create an educational aspect. That aside we're trying to complete financing on this project and we're getting close. I am excited about this project and I think so will you once you find out more about it. Here is our social media site.
MBF: facebook
I could go on and one but I have some snow to shovel and I'm prepping to do personal tax prep tomorrow. Coffee cup is low.
Be good to one another!
Casting, Candleberry and Create VS Hate
The first snow of mention kissed the ground last night. It's beautiful and welcome at least for a while. The harvest was finished yesterday with the pulling of the beets. A final mulch and mow and stowing the last of the yard items until spring. This morning has been all coffee (BREAKING update) I may have a new coffee sponsor – stay tuned. Speaking of sponsors, this morning has been wonderful with coffee and The Candleberry Candle Company! They have been a personal sponsor for a few years helping me find my mindspace to work on scripts. My zen to keep patience when dealing with accounting and BS technology issues. OK. Let's be honest on that front. 98% of my technology issues are with my technological issues. From my earliest days of friends playing with the video camera – my buddy Darrel was always the camera guy. He could get the camera to roll back to the right VHS frame. We didn't have editing back in the day. We shot one take in order. Boom box on set was our music. Those days were fun and free. Of course being young without the daily adult issues was more free. I cherish those days beyond words. I've worked hard to establish a worth in our business and I can't just play. It reduces value and being part of something "bad" (maybe still fun) can make you go backwards. I've got management pushing me up into the larger films. I've got a few studios that have taken an interest in developing my branding. I still have fun when playing on set now – it just has to make sense business-wise.
I had a funny message a few weeks ago but I was too busy to really even address it. It was from a filmmaker whom I had heard all good things about. Previously they had expressed to a mutual associate that they wanted to get a script in my hands. It was in the thriller/horror genre as I recall. With good recommendations behind them I even thought a future collaboration might be possible. I have a few horror scripts with interested distribution and foreign sales waiting. It has to be the right director and the project just is not front and center right now in development. They were working on a script and we inquired about bringing to the table scripts that made business-sense because business was there. I recall the idea being just lukewarm. Lot's of people have their own scripts to do but if distributors/retailers don't want it why shoot it? So fast forward and coming from Yuma shooting "40 Nights" I recall getting a script and reading it at the airport. It wasn't bad as I recall just not anything I was into doing. Maybe I needed time away from playing Jesus before heading into the dark side again? But whatever reason – it was a pass. Now under some odd screen name I got contacted and scolded for talking SHI$% about their script and making a Jesus film. OK. They wanted to twist a dagger with a "So and so also just made the same Jesus film…" 🙂 First, you have not seen our film. Second, that is like saying, "someone else made a film about a haunted house" – okay. I've had rocks thrown at me for years and I'm okay with that. It is a badge of honor and respect – some of my celebrity friends have all confirmed – when hate starts you're getting success. Now, when I got around to reading this message I wasn't mad. To me, I saw a frustrated artist who took my rejection of a role as a rejection of his art. Not true. I almost reached out because if he is a good artist this kind of negativity leads to career death. I can say that because I've seen it. That was the funny thing about our screening of "An Ordinary Killer" last week. A perfect movie? No. Art is subjective. It did sell out 12 of 13 theatricals, USA/Australia distribution and played on ABC. We made that film 13 years ago. WOW! And that was our 5th CDI feature and the library is much larger now. The point is I want people to succeed but by good business and hard work. No shortcuts and half-ass business. People who know me will say that I give you an honest opinion. I've had lots of experiences in our business and while I learn something new daily – I've gathered a good amount of knowledge.
RESPECT. I've given it and had several good advisors and mentors.
IF YOU GIVE IT – you too can learn, grow and thrive.
That one communication was just a good example of how not to build bridges. You get feedback and you get defensive – that shuts down any respectful communication. Do I practice what I preach?
CHASING THE STAR – On Friday Bret Miller, our director and I, concluded a three-hour plus script meeting. I'm happy to say we have draft 2 with the directors input. We moved a few scenes for pacing and flow and he had a few ideas that we put in there. Our distributors had purchased a suit and we were giving it a tailor. It is exciting and so that will start to go out next week.
On casting we've been looking at several reels – most on the west coast because we're limited on flights. We also fly in several of our keys because that is just as important. They are stars on the other side of the camera. Funny. In Michigan I hear complaints when films come in and bring their keys. I will once again get back at them by bringing some of our Michigan keys. I can't bring everyone and that is a hard balance. But once again some of us will depart Michigan in Feb for Arizona. Maybe that is why I can enjoy the snow.
40 Nights – This week my goal is to pull in the intro sequence and VFX. Sound design is closing up and our director loved the direction. The music score is also coming together. We released a teaser that used a snippet of music.
We've been re-mastered the CDI library in prep of some new VOD, foreign, TV deals and a possible CDI Online store. The book/DVD deal on "Knight Chills" is signed and some PR will release on that.
I thought some PR from our distributor was coming out on the "Ashes of Eden" TV deal. Something for next week! Closed caption deal on "Donors" releasing Feb 02. "Bestseller" is playing Grayling, MI Dec. 10th look for a new event page and updates. The national release date on "Bestseller" might be March 02 but we're trying to confirm. I will confirm that artwork is being done and I'm looking forward to that.
Script, script, scripts… – I signed an NDA and had a book sent to me that will be followed by the script. A studio I'm working with sent me a script that they want me to star in. Also another couple of projects to consider/talk about – one is a TV show reboot and the other a major film on par with C.U.J.O.. That project is moving forward and looks to shoot in 2016. I will say more when I can.
Let's wrap this up. I'm going to watch MSU and maybe read a script.
Enjoy your weekend!
International Audiences, Updates, Advice
Welcome December! I've got the hazelnut coffee brewed and I'm ready to have a little chat with the "Clawing My Way to the Middle" readers. First I want to say it is an honor to have each and every one of you take the time to read my journey. I try to present lessons that can help others on their own journey. I wanted to let you all know where many of our readers are from. Of course the USA, Brazil, Mozambique, Portugal, Spain, Italy, Norway, Thailand, Australia and Netherlands. How great is it that we all reside within our boarders of our country but we are all on this planetary journey together. Storytelling as been helping to shape society and artistic expressions while various all share common traits. I've always been drawn to culture that is different. I think that is what is uniquely special in all of us. That is why I could never get the concept of unifying. No one art is better – it is uniquely different. My mind even goes to food and drink when I look at that list of countries. I know all the unique traditions that surround great meals prepared in all those lands. USA is the hodgepodge for sure and that is our thing. But I'm deeply appreciate of food, song, culture, religion (as an expression) and storytelling. I've been honored to have worked with a handful of international filmmakers and I plan to work with more. I think my interest in ancient history, martial arts and even the culture of futbol/soccer has driven me to explore and enjoy the diversity we have on this planet. I want to thank all of you readers for your precious moments. I also will make it a goal to get more and more of our films into your territories. Some of them already are but with distribution growing as they say at Disney world "It's a small world after all." True words:)
I've had a great week both personal and professional. The Thanksgiving family time is past us and now the Christmas tree is up. While not yet decorated it has been a welcome sight each day. The tree will become the fuel of the transformation fire (Fire pit) that will help burn up the winter clutter once spring arrives. I've been gathering gifts for family since I will be gone the week before Christmas week. I'll be in Nevada playing space cowboy in the Valley of Fire. I was informed that as a young child I went there and even saw a few old photos yesterday. I look forward to gathering with these artists and performing with a few actors I admire and have not yet worked directly with. I'm ready save my packing so soon it will be time to shoot in the WASTELAND.
2015 Distribution Updates
CDI projects
ASHES OF EDEN – Feel free to read a great review of the film. More of these will be releasing leading up to the 2015 national release. I have a goof vocabulary but I had to look up the word they associated with my name. I thought it might mean "Loud and Opinionated" Ha! But I was happy to see that it meant "marked by outstanding strength and vigor of body, mind or spirit." So please do take a read on the review and we will be getting the film on the market and out to you very soon.
DONORS – Also will be releasing nationally in 2015 – more on this in the weeks to come
WICKED SPRING – produced under Lionheart Filmworks when that was our southern sister company. The companies split ways a handful of years ago and now "Wicked Spring" is under the CDI banner and is getting a 2015 spring special edition release. Also on BluRay!
We will see a 2015 re-release of KNIGHT CHILLS with a novelization release. Likely fall 2015. Also work on a sequel script has begun.
HEAVEN'S NEIGHBORS and FIGURE IN THE FOREST rights are back at home here at CDI and a domestic release set up will also happen. "Figure in the Forest" can be seen on TBN and Parables TV.
BESTSELLER – Early look at FX work is very exciting! I know music work is in full swing. We are looking at a 1st test showing of this film early in 2015. We are getting some early interest from distributors. It is going to be another film that proudly showcases Michigan filmmaking at its finest.
I have a few co-starring/supporting roles in THE TERRORIST & DEAD QUIET and make appearances in DIVISION 19 and SMALL TOWN SANTA (Released now).
Several VERY exciting projects are in development some with partial funding. We're hard at work with some script work and prep that will lead to more production in 2015!
My last advice pulled from recent events. ALWAYS, ALWAYS give more by way of effort than what you are paid for. NEVER be one of the people who does just the absolute minimum. Maybe at some boring desk job but in an industry that moves on passion you never want to be seen as just a functional piece. Your passion is what makes you an artistic contributor. It is what will get you re-hired. A great example taken from BESTSELLER film shoot. I like to ninja about and just observe people at work. I came up to the grip truck one day to find our key grip Paul Burt busy organizing. Most people were just trying to stay warm and get the shots as this was a wet, cold day on a remote dirt road. I watched him move and arrange. Wipe down and clean C stands and such. When I revealed myself to his surprise – I was met with a smile and asked if I needed anything. My response – "I need an entire crew with an attitude like yours." I said, hot coffee was ready and he explained that he would go up in a few minutes. This was HIS responsibility. HIS grip truck for this shoot and HE wanted to make sure it was clean and orderly because it was a reflection on him. WOW! I want people like that on our team. That is a reflection of us as a company. That is a reflection of us as an industry. Character is what you are when you think nobody is looking. Pride starts with yourself and extends outward like a pebble thrown in water. Paul Burt's phone will ring again. Will yours? With only so many people making narrative features and with the way producers get referrals on performance. How many times can someone give just the bare minimum before one of your peers with passion takes that hire away from you? Let me answer that for you – not many. This goes for actors. This goes for vendors. I've had companies mad because I continued to get my gear over the years from LOWING LIGHT & GRIP. I even had a trash talking vendor from Detroit once ask how she could steal my business. Her choice of words alone made me say, NEVER. David (Lowing) was there when I first stepped up to fight monsters in IN THE WOODS. He has always been there for me. Like I said about cast/crew, he always gave more goods or service than the dollar amount on the check. That intangible is where loyalty lives. The actor who gives every ounce of themselves – I immediately think of Melissa Anschultz freezing in a warehouse under rain machines while filming "7 Stones". I already spoke about Paul Bert and David Lowing as examples of crew and vendors. If you desire loyalty from people you better give them a reason. I know people out there get mad (of course at someone else) if they get passed over. We know sometimes it's just a casting thing or a key crew position that was already in play – but look at yourselves. Are you respectful to those above and below you? Do you give your best effort, always? Do you spread positive energy in your wake? Would you be an example for others to follow? If you can't answer YES to all of these your time could be limited or your advancement may stall. Stand accountable and watch your career and life experience amazing growth.
Happy Full Moon!
"Bestseller," "Best Efforts" and "Being Responsible"
It is a wonderful Saturday and the dogs are watching some Scooby Doo as I'm doing some morning film work over coffee. This was a week full of announcements, many business calls and exciting updates. We will look at some of those updates and discuss a few situations surrounding them.
I think last week we talked a bit about the temptation for struggling artists to take on parts that aren't right or tasks that they are not suited to do. It was announced this week that CDI http://www.cdiproductions.com will be the new management/production company on the Michigan-based feature "Bestseller". Due to my association with the lead Melissa Anschutz I was in the knowing on the journey she was undertaking. I was privy to all the bumps, blunders and lack of organization. I was aware of who was solving problems and who was creating them. I let most of it roll off with a shake of the head because it was not my issue. Even so, it disappointed me greatly. Any hardworking filmmaker will tell you how hard it is to finance a film. That's because of the large number of potential investors who have been burned or who associate with those investors who have been burned. By burned I also mean – unfinished films or films that have had such bad business done that they are not able to be taken to market. If someone truly puts their BEST EFFORT (That legal term from last week) into a project and it still fails that might be a different story. But when someone doesn't put a best effort forward and they fail – where is the accountability? Many want to take accountability when things are looking good. When the PR releases are spewing hype or one is prancing about set playing "Hollywood" looking busy BUT when things go wrong they are the first of the finger-pointers. You MUST "own" both the good and the bad if you are in charge. If you are a chaotic mess that is the ripples that you will send forth from you. If you radiate a calm center that too spreads throughout a production.
Screaming is NOT communication and shows weakness and frustration by the party doing so. I know personally an associate in the insurance realm who had to also deal with this chaotic force. I heard the stories from multiple people about this communication. You tie that with the lack of pre-production work and the picture is perfectly clear. Now on a personal level – I'm offended by people paid to guide who use inexperience against others to try to disguise their own shortcomings. A film set is full of challenges but the only ones you should be facing are those things you could not control with good pre-production work. I've halted shoots and pushed start dates when I saw a ship was not yet ready. If I see a place where leadership is lacking in a department – be it in the director, AD staff, office, anyone – I will rearrange or replace someone. You don't just watch a boat fill with water and do nothing. If you are a lead producer or that staff – It's your JOB to fix things that are broken. It's your JOB to anticipate what could/or may break down and try to prevent a breakdown. It's your JOB to fix something quickly, quietly with the least amount of attention or distraction. That means that this is not a dramatic "LOOK AT ME FIX SOMETHING" moment. The best producer work is often never seen or heard. It is known by the experience the cast and crew had and the final product they captured.
Now this situation on "Bestseller" is not isolated and this issue of poor management seems to be a pattern. Sometimes one doesn't hire enough artists to properly execute a job or make sure that money truly finds its way onto the screen. You also don't start playing "Hollywood" George Jefferson because you are connected to a large bank account. You treat those funds like your own funds and stick to the budget. Overruns are poor planning. A producer team is responsible for the hard work of all those artists. You represent how people will look at our state's artists. Are we seen as capable leaders or forever doomed to feed on the scraps of others coming into our state. Now I did not have anything to do with this situation. As a matter of fact I turned down earlier invites on acting and producing. That rejection was based upon the fact that fires were already burning in PRE-PRODUCTION crisis mode. I also knew that much misinformation was flying everywhere either implying deceit or disorganization – both bad. Bottom line – I don't like fixing other's messes. The problem seems to be that while I'm hard at work finishing projects (2 features (Donors, Ashes of Eden) and 1 TV series (Supermodel Showdown) – someone else is at the local film festival mixers smoozing up any starry-eyed potential investor or novice filmmaker with a budget – selling a skill set they do not possess.
Now potential investors – YOU have a responsibility to vet people out and not get stung by the BUYER BEWARE. This "Bestseller" ship was professionally parked and the responsible parties removed. After that my company was recommended again to come manage. With a clean slate I listened and the deal was made. The ship is now being refitted and we will make one heck of a movie I can promise you that. I can promise this crew and cast will have an enjoyable experience filled with hard work but will be rewarded with respect. Those that know me can vouch that I take my film jobs very serious. I turn down lots of work because it must feel right. In this matter I wanted the truth out there. The fact that I don't wander in many social circles I thought this direct statement best. I will say this to anyone out there unqualified to produce or unwilling to make the Best Effort – Stick with what you are good at and don't muddy the waters. The sooner that the proper artists align in Michigan and the BS artists are benched – great things will come from our State. As we have more stories of success vs screw ups investors will start to take our artists more serious. So I ask you all to please clean up your act. For those who don't – I would gladly testify at any arbitration or legal proceedings on how a film set should be ran. Enough of people giving half (if that) efforts and poisoning the money wells here in Michigan. I've been personally part of 2 projects that went south because of false promises from people. It hurt our momentum as a company but luckily our productivity outshines those few dark moments. One bad deal can kill others momentum and ruin dreams all together. And just how truly sad is that? I've made many friends in this industry around the world because of respect that grew from doing what was expected. I'm not in this industry to make friends first – I'm here to tell stories with other hardworking, passionate artists. Friendship and respect is earned. Period.
Okay, I'm off my soap box now. Other updates –
– It looks like I finally got my German invoicing all complete. It has been a good learning experience doing these foreign sales.
– "Ashes of Eden" new trailer is a week or so out from release. The trailer looks great. The film is having the dialogue polished and is almost done. Music and sound design is on deck.
– "Supermodel Showdown" I was in search of a few B roll tapes that we feared missing but I think those have now been recovered. The show is coming together and is looking great. Not as fast as I would like but there is no script. This is truly a reality show.
– I have agreed to play a role in "Bestseller" now that we are officially "in association" because with myself starring in 3 thrillers in the last 10 months it really boosts distribution. With CDI's involvement I can say to all the artists that the film will get a release in several countries.
There is a possibility of another film shooting prior to "Bestseller" going into production but next week will tell. We have a window because of schedules and so will the chips fall right? That is the question:)
I hope you all have a great weekend and keep Clawing your Way to the Middle:)


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Please click on a thumbnail for a detailed view.
"The amusement parks were photographed in various parts of France. Glitter and songs spin and spill out. Everything but the patient guardians (both stone and flesh), twirls, whirls and transforms into elegant solid forms like lumps of clay on a potters wheel. For a moment the world we see ceases to exist and another world that flows there in tandem appears. With my simple tools (a pinhole camera) I patiently observe and record this other dimension of time and space."
– Dianne Bos

subset: commoncrawl


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Thursday, April 05, 2007
MSM Filtering, again - Iraqis are Better - Just ask them!
Here's some numbers in perspective - American deaths historically:
Civil War - > 600,000 north and south; adjusted for population growth, that number would be 6,000,000 today
WWI - > 100,000 - again a smaller population
WWII - > 400,000; adjusted for population growth, would have been 800,000 today
Viet Nam - > 50,000
Now, I regret the loss of every single life given so the rest of us can be free. What is extremely frustrating, though, is the total lack of knowledge by today's youth regarding sacrifices made in the past. In addition, the inability to put today's sacrifices in context with the sacrifices our ancestors made bodes poorly for the future. The current, blame the Americans for everything mantra, ignores the tremendous scarifices made by Americans for others and puts liberty for the planet at risk.
Remember, if the Union Army had stayed in the south the Jim Crow laws may never have been passed and former slaves would have gotten the land they were promised. The Union Army left, discrimination took over. If Hitler had been stopped in the 1930's, who knows how many of the 30,000,000+ deaths would have been avoided. We're in Japan 40+ years after their surrender; we're in Germany, 40+ years after their defeat.
There is a reason to stay! Besides, your kids may thank you some day.


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Building LOB Applications with UWP: How Microsoft ROCKED IT at BuildThomas Claudius Huber
My daily work is building LOB applications for enterprises and creating Azure-based backends. Since 2006 (more…)
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My daily work is building LOB applications for enterprises and creating Azure-based backends. Since 2006 (more…)
In the latest Windows 10 SDK preview build (17110, get it here) there's a
TreeView control available. You can read how to use it in the really great docs : https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/uwp/design/controls-and-patterns/tree-view
Unfortunately the
TreeView does not support Data Binding yet. And as you might know, UWP has also (more…)
Hi developer,
this week I had two sessions at the leading independent conference in the German-speaking area for Microsoft technologies, the BASTA! conference. Thanks a lot for joining and making my sessions a wonderful experience for me, and hopefully for you too!
What kind of business applications do you build? Do they have a tabbed user interface? Most of mine do so.
After spiking (=prototyping) the Visual Studio Shell I wanted to go deeper into building a tabbed user interface with UWP, of course databound with MVVM.
As you might know, UWP does not contain a TabControl. But it contains a Pivot-Control that has pretty much of the functionality needed for a classic tabbed UI. So, let's go with the Pivot and let's see how far we can get. (more…)
Note: There's a MS Dev Show Episode where @ytechie, @carlschweitzer and I are talking about UWP and the Visual Studio Shell built as part of this post. You find it here on www.msdevshow.com
UWP is the technology to build native applications for the Windows Platform. But there's still some stuff missing that is required by a typical line-of-business application for the classic desktop: TreeView, DataGrid, Validation, SqlClient and more. Some parts like a DataGrid are available as 3rd-party controls. Other parts like the TreeView are already in development, as you can see in the Windows Dev Platform Backlog. That backlog shows that Microsoft is working on a TreeView, which is awesome! And I'm pretty sure, at some point in the future we'll also get a DataGrid. This was the case for WPF and also for Silverlight. But let's see, the future will tell us and for today we've great 3rd-party DataGrids.
But what else is required to build a classic desktop application? (more…)
When you plan to build a new enterprise line-of-business application, you have many choices as a .NET developer for the client-side technology:
While creating apps with the Universal Windows Platform (UWP) I noticed a weird behavior, but I'm not sure if it's a bug. Let's just call it the "Master-Detail-Problem".
To explain it, I stripped down my code to the XAML-snippet below. No code-behind needed. (more…)
To push events into Azure Event Hub you can use the Nuget-package WindowsAzure.ServiceBus (https://www.nuget.org/packages/WindowsAzure.ServiceBus/). That package works pretty straight forward, but there's one problem:


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I'm Lisa M. Butler, and I design + code websites for WordPress.
I created my website in September 2010 as a digital playground to learn WordPress. But something interesting happened along the way. I discovered that the more work I put into my website, the more my life improved in other areas. When I shared outfit inspiration on my blog, I found clothes I really loved and felt more confident in my personal style.
And when I felt unsatisfied with my day job? I put out my "open for business" sign on my website and changed my life forever.
Today, my mission is to help you make change happen in your life, starting with your website.
I've built more than 100 websites on WordPress, so leave the Googling and experimenting with websites to me. It's literally part of my job description (in fact, it's my favorite part!).
Sometimes, my work looks like designing websites for creative people who love their work but hate their site.
Other times, it's partnering with other designers to bring their work to life through code.
Ultimately, all of my work is about helping you stop struggling with your site so you can focus on the work you truly love.
a few fun facts:
I currently live in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
But there will always be a special place in my heart for my native Tex-Mex. Bring on the queso! I also love to travel whenever I can.
I have a dog named Dobby...
Yes, like the house elf in Harry Potter, except she's a girl. Westie/Jack Russell mix and the reluctant star of my Instagram. Toy hoarder.
... and a dog named Rogue.
She's a Corgi and makes very rare appearances on Instagram. Believes the camera will steal her soul. Expert cuddler. Barks a lot. Keeps Dobby in line.
I regularly dye my hair vibrant colors.
While brunette is my natural hair color, you'll usually find me sporting various shades of purple, blue, and pink.
I play piano and flute.
There was a time I thought I'd major in music, but I realized spending hours in a practice room would take the joy out of it. Now I play for fun! (I don't have a photo, so please enjoy a flamingo photo from my honeymoon instead.)
In another life, I'd go to Hogwarts.
And I actually did, for my 30th birthday. 10 points for Hufflepuff!


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Montgomery Bell
This article needs additional citations for verification. (December 2017) (Learn how and when to remove this template message)
Montgomery Bell
Bell circa 1840-1850
|January 3, 1769
|April 1, 1855 (aged 86)
|John Bell
Mary Patterson
Montgomery Bell (January 3, 1769, Chester County, Pennsylvania – April 1, 1855, Dickson County, Tennessee) was a manufacturing entrepreneur who was crucial to the economic development of early Middle Tennessee. He was known as the "Iron Master of the Harpeth" and the "Iron Master of Middle Tennessee". Today he is remembered mostly for founding Montgomery Bell Academy, one of the largest non-sectarian all-boys private secondary schools in the United States.
Early life[edit]
Montgomery Bell was born on January 3, 1769 in Chester County, Pennsylvania.[1] His father, John Bell, was an Irish emigrant to the United States.[1] His mother was Mary Patterson.[1] He was of Scotch-Irish descent on both sides.[1]
Bell served a three-year apprenticeship to a tanner and later became a hatmaker with an older brother. At age 20, he left Pennsylvania for Lexington, Kentucky where a widowed older sister lived and opened a hat-making business paying for the education of his sister's children.
Bell moved to Middle Tennessee and became involved in the iron business purchasing James Robertson's iron works at Cumberland Furnace, Tennessee in 1804 for $16,000. Bell expanded his operations and built other furnaces and mills including a hammer mill south of Charlotte, Tennessee on Jones Creek using water power.
By 1808, Bell was buying wood at 50 cents per cord for charcoal to fuel his Cumberland Furnaces which cast cannonballs used in the War of 1812 by General Andrew Jackson's troops at the Battle of New Orleans. Bell built another forge and hammer mill called "Pattison Forge" after his mother's maiden name. Bell finished a tunnel approximately 100 yards (91 m) long through a narrow limestone and sandstone ridge from a point seven-miles upstream creating a 4-foot fall to operate his hammers and forge. There had been an earlier plan to shorten the river path for flatboats to ship goods. Bell named another of his iron works "Worley Furnace" after James Worley, a slave.
Bell made the Narrows his operational headquarters and built a home there which he called Bell View. A nearby unincorporated community where many of his workers lived is called Bell Town. Bell suffered losses in the Panic of 1819 and in 1824 he advertised the Narrows and other properties for sale in the Nashville Whig. Bell offered to sell his ironworks to the U.S. Army for an Armory but floods on the Harpeth were well known and that idea failed. The Narrows property was not sold during Bell's life but much was lost through looting, flooding, and the effects of time. The tunnel remains and part of the Tennessee State Park system.
As early as 1835, Bell sent 50 of his freed slaves to Liberia.[2] In 1853, he sent 50 more of them.[2] He eventually emancipated 150 more of his slaves.[2] Additionally, he hired a teacher from Philadelphia to teach them how to read and write, at a time when this was illegal.[2]
He died on April 1, 1855 in Dickson County, Tennessee which location became Cheatham County in 1856. He was buried near the Narrows property in a cemetery near his Bell View home
He bequeathed $20,000 toward "the education of children not less than ten nor more than fourteen years old who are not able to support and educate themselves and whose parents are not able to do so." This was the foundational grant for the Montgomery Bell Academy in Nashville, Tennessee.
The Montgomery Bell State Park is named in his honor.
The Montgomery Bell Bridge, over the Harpeth River above its confluence with the Cumberland River near Ashland City, Tennessee on Tennessee State Route 49, is also named in his honor.
- ^ a b c d Dalton, Robert E. (Spring 1976). "Montgomery Bell and the Narrows of Harpeth". Tennessee Historical Quarterly. 35 (1): 3–28. JSTOR 42623550.
- ^ a b c d John F. Baker, The Washingtons of Wessyngton Plantation: Stories of My Family's Journey to Freedom, New York City: Simon and Schuster, 2010, p. 87 [1]
Further reading[edit]
- Corlew, Robert E., A History of Dickson County (Nashville, 1956, reprinted 1980), Tennessee Historical Society
|Wikimedia Commons has media related to Montgomery Bell.


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NOUSHEHRO FEROZE: A Wadera who held a Jirga previous day and ordered two brothers to bite their shoes was booked by the local police but not in the crime to hold an illegal jirga, local sources told PPI here Friday.
The sources said that a local Wadera and leader of ruling Pakistan Peoples´ Party (PPP) Muhammad Bux Mubejo was arrested by the police and a FIR lodged against him, but surprisingly the police did not mention the holding of illegal jirga in the FIR.
The sources further said the leaders of the ruling PPP and local police officers are trying their best to save the skin of the local PPP leader and they are trying to push up the matter of illegal Jirga. However, the fact was that an illegal Jirga had punished two real brothers to hold their shoes with their teeth because their donkey cart had collided with the vehcile of the Jirga head.
The local Wadera and leader of ruling Pakistan Peoples´ Party (PPP) Muhammad Bux Mubejo had held a Jirga headed by himself at his bungalow at Village Phul and ordered two brothers whose donkey cart had collided with his car to carry their shoes with their teeth in the presence of hundreds of villagers.
Both brothers, Suhail and Ayaz, who are manual farm labors by profession, obeyed the order of the Jirga, took their shoes with their teeth and apologized with the Wadera for their mistake. The footage of this inhuman Jirga has gone viral and social and political circles have strongly condemned the PPP leader for his inhuman attitude.
However, the City police last night arrested Wadera Muhammad Bux, lodged an FIR against him on the complaint of the State and produced him before a local court on Friday. The court of the first civil judge Abdul Hafeez Chachar rejected the bail plea of Wadera Muhammad Bux and sent him to jail on 14-day remand.
Meanwhile, the victimized brothers and their relatives in a press conference here alleged the local police are taking sides with the Wadera. They said they went to the police station last night but the police refused to lodge their FIR and later lodged a FIR on behalf of the State in which the crime of holding illegal Jirga was not included to save the skin of local PPP leader. They appealed to the higher authorities to dole out justice to them. – PPI


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We talked about 'Happy Accidents' last week. And one idea of the Happy accident is Kelly's share about discovering how accidentally dripping paint made her work more interesting. If you extend the idea of Happy Accident, it is really just the fun of creativity, or maybe even the sense of humour of it(sometimes the joke is on us!). Just by doing something, seemingly blindly, or in the case of Kelly's spill, by thinking you knew where you were headed in a work(positively or negatively) - you come upon something or notice something that wasn't there before: an unexpected idea. And it takes you somewhere...and you let it!
So, since we love Happy Accidents, we should make space for them. In our studio, we give ourselves permission to have the kind of space and time to not worry about how something is going to work out but instead to let things happen and become more than what we thought, as our actions start to lead us. Our art sessions are about letting our ideas out, so let's surprise ourselves with the unexpected!
I am bringing all my efforts, and only the most positively critical, and excited view of all of our work. I expect you all to do the same. Respect yourselves enough to remember you are as important to this project as anyone else. Oh, and some of the best creative experiences come from doing something "badly", by the way. Don't get hung up with what you can't do, when there is so much else to do, and so much creativity and learning in just doing, even badly...Please be open to Happy Accidents in skill and wherever you may find meaning.
Next week you are bringing in your personal objects to photograph and we will do a very quick drawing exercise as well. I did a quick photo scene last night and found some fun compositions to work with. I'll format and add them shortly as an example here: Please see the above post for Tuesday March 5th. thx.
Thank you so much for a fun and messy Tuesday!


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Senior Vice President,
Valuation Services
Eric J. Roeder is a distinguished valuation professional with over 20 years of experience in the real estate industry. Over the course of his career, his areas of expertise have focused on residential and commercial appraisal and brokerage.
He has worked for two of the largest financial institutions in the nation, Transamerica Life Insurance and SunTrust Bank, where he spent the last several years as a regional valuation manager that supported Commercial Lending Units, Special Assets, OREO and Corporate Facilities. He has mentored many community banks in the creation of valuation policies and procedures for their lending and foreclosure activities.
His MAI and CCIM designations and MS in Real Estate Appraisal and BA in Economics make him uniquely qualified to assist lending institutions in meeting the myriad compliance requirements at the Fed, OCC and FDIC as well as NCUA. Eric is also an approved instructor for the Appraisal Institute, allowing him to bring client centric appraisal training and educational services to lending institutions of any size.


text: mannyj 0 Report post Posted December 29, 2018 I got my windows tinted on my 2018 Honda Accord Sport 3 days ago and it has been raining the last couple days so today i decide to check to see if there's any bubbles and I realize there are some minor bubbles but I also find some scratches on the outside of my windows. I'm assuming the tint guy placed the tint over the window and while cutting the shape of the window the razor went through and scratched my actual glass. Can i get some opinions amd thoughts on this please. I have had 1 car tinted prior to this and never experienced this and this guy was recommened by a friend so I decided to give him a try. Share this post Link to post


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HUGE SALE! Discounts Up To 30% For Stays From January to February 2020.
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Relax in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower at the Châteauneuf, a stunning 3 bedroom vacation rental with all the comforts of home and a stellar location in the heart of the Left Bank. The interior of the Châteauneuf compliments the surrounding elegant Paris neighborhood, with regal furnishings, towering ceilings and lofty French windows that present incredible views of the top of the Eiffel Tower. With 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms plus a half bath and air conditioning, the Châteauneuf accommodates up to eight people in luxurious comfort. Châteauneuf is an outstanding value compared to four tiny double hotel rooms, and far more grandiose, spacious and accommodating. Save money on daily meals and snacks by keeping a stock of groceries and French treats in the kitchen, and enjoy the best meals in the city in your own private dining area with boldly beautiful décor and a quiet setting. The expansive living area gives guests ample space to lounge in style and enjoy lively group conversations. Save hundreds and hundreds of dollars with home cooked meals, free wireless internet, washer and dryer and relaxed entertainment at home - all readily available at the Châteauneuf - while still enjoying a gracious Parisian atmosphere.
Visitors will be justifiably impressed with the Châteauneuf's 7th arrondissement locale, as this sprawling apartment is a two-minute stroll away from the impressive Champ de Mars gardens, an array of lush gardens and playgrounds, and the base of the Eiffel Tower itself. The surrounding streets are blooming with renowned eateries, cool sidewalk cafés, boutiques and a vast variety of delicious choices along the famous rue Cler market street, making every stroll through the neighborhood a quintessentially Parisian adventure. Walk to the Rodin museum, the Louvre, the Musée d'Orsay, the Grand Palais and stroll along the Seine River to delight in the city's most beloved and iconic sites. Enjoy a wonderfully elegant vacation, without the affluent price tag, and see firsthand why the Châteauneuf tops the list of the most sumptuous and spacious places to stay in the 7th arrondissement.
Bedroom 1: Dual-extra wide queen bed (62in x 79in; 160cm x 200cm) which can be unzipped to form two single beds
Bedroom 2: Two single beds (31in x 75in; 80cm x 190cm) that can be zipped together to form a dual-extra wide queen bed
Bedroom 3: Two single beds (31in x 75in; 80cm x 190cm) that can be zipped together to form a dual-extra wide queen bed
Living room: Two high-quality sofas that each convert into comfortable single beds (31in x 75in; 80cm x 190cm)
Bathroom 1: Shower (fixed and flexible showerheads) and sink
Bathroom 2: Combination bathtub/shower (fixed and flexible showerheads), toilet, double sink and heated towel rack
Bathroom 3: Shower (fixed and flexible showerheads) and sink
The washing machine and seperate dryer are also located in this bathroom
Half Bath: Toilet and sink
HUGE SALE! Discounts Up To 30% For Stays From January to February 2020.
Call 1-888-520-2087 or email [email protected].
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"We loved our apartment and stay with Paris Perfect! We were 3 couples and the accommodations were very comfortable for 6 adults. The building was quiet and in a lovely residential area with just some slight street noise through the evening. The bonus was spending time together for breakfast, late..."
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"We booked with Paris Perfect for our trip to France for the World Cup. At the time, I had never heard of the company. I discovered them online and I'm so happy I did. Everyone was a pleasure to work with, even before we booked. They answered questions and also received an Amazon package we shipped..."
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"Loved everything about the charming apartment. Lovely beds, great sleeping arrangement with 1 king and 2 bedrooms with twins and multiple bathrooms for all. Great restaurants and cafes within walking distance. Would highly recommend if you are wanting the 7th for a home base."
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"Our recent stay at the Chateauneuf apartment was our fifth with London/Paris Perfect. This additional data point confirms what we have experienced with previous rentals – apartment location is convenient in all respects, things are as they seem on the website, or better, service..."
John W, United States
"The Paris apartment was wonderful. It was everything I could have wanted for our family vacation. The apartment was beautiful and spotless. The beds were comfortable and the refrigerator well stocked. When we first arrived, we all just walked around a bit speechless. We loved the view of the..."
Renetta Kunnath, United States
"Bonjour Paris Perfect 1000% true! The beauty, fantastic location, the Paris Perfect Team, Victor their incredible local driver well exceeded my expectations. I cannot begin to express the soul satisfying experience of immersing oneself in this amazing French community. I cannot wait to get back and..."
Susan Nemcek, United States
"I brought my daughter, her husband and my two grandchildren to Paris for my birthday in early November for one week. We loved Chateauneuf and the neighborhood. The apartment was charming, comfortable and very well equipped. Everything we needed was either provided by Paris Perfect or was on our..."
Marsha L Goode, United States
"This is a wonderful, beautiful apartment in a great location. It is large enough for several people, it was just two of us for this stay. Three showers and two toilets, with two large sitting rooms. The kitchen was great. Quiet building and quick access to many restaurants within 2 blocks, 6..."
Bradley Easton, United States
"I stayed in two Paris Perfect Chateauneuf apartment this summer. I had high expectation and was not disappointed. The apartment was both beautiful and well equipped. The Paris Perfect team went out of their way in helping me plan a wonderful vacation in Paris. I can't wait to book another..."
Jennifer Little, United Sates
"Paris Perfect always lives up to its name. This is our second trip to Paris and our second apartment with PP. It was so lovely, furnished beautifully and fully equipped with everything we needed. It was like coming home after long days of walking around the city and wonderful to be able to cook..."
D Prasad, United States
"If you are looking for a high end, French style apartment rental do not hesitate to rent this one. We just stayed there for one month over Christmas & New Year and I can tell you, you will love it. Amazing comfort, more space than you could possibly need, huge, eat-in, fully equipped kitchen,..."
Barbara M, United Sates
"This is a lovely and very comfortable apartment for 2 couples. The area is totally safe and full of wonderful restaurants and shops. Your booklet is very helpful in choosing where to shop/eat. Thanks for another wonderful stay in Paris"
Mikey Herring, United States
"Enjoyed our stay at the Chateauneuf Apartment, the location was great but most importantly the entire apartment was very clean. We arrived 2 hours earlier than the check in time, but Paris Perfect was able to check us in the apartment. They also have an office just a few steps away from the..."
Dolores L., United States
"We were very happy with the apartment and the prompt replies to all our concerns prior to booking. We will definitely use Paris Perfect again. Thank you!"
Michelle, United States
"We had a family reunion in Paris. Chateauneuf was well appointed and comfortable for six adults. Everything we needed and best of all a cozy ambiance after long days of sightseeing, shopping and walking the streets of Paris!
Great location with an awesome view of the twinkling lights of la..."
Nancy, United States
"We had a wonderful stay at Chateauneuf, ringing in 2015 in this beautiful apartment. Our party was comprised of three couples and this apartment was perfectly appointed to provide privacy and comfortable facilities for all. With three bathrooms, each couple had nice private space. The apartment..."
Tracy Mustin, United States
"To all of you who are considering Paris Perfect for your next apartment, I cannot begin to express how wonderful I think not only the Paris Perfect apartments are, but the staff and the organization as well. We had an unexpected glitch with the apartment we rented in November and within one hour,..."
Justine Noonan, United States
"The info was very thorough and the apartment was very well equipped. Verity and Sam were thorough, fun and friendly!"
Robert R, United States
"The apartment was terrific, really spacious and extremely well equipped for our family of 8 adults and an infant - that's a lot of people in one space, but it really worked well. We all like to cook and I have to say the kitchen was better equipped than any rental unit we have ever stayed in. The..."
Edward G, United States
"An enjoyable time - nice location. Verity was great at our arrival. So nice and helpful. She even fixed our phone."
Alice H, USA
"We had a wonderful time at Chateauneuf. The location is spectacular for walks to the Champs de Mars and the Eiffel Tower, Ecole Militaire, and great restaurants. We walked to dinners at a couple of Christian Constant restaurants, the patisserie just a couple of doors down is also fabulous. The..."
Lisa Wheeler, United States
"This apartment certainly lives up to its name: "Paris Perfect." Everything was exactly that, perfect. We had 4 adults and 3 children; there was plently of space for everyone. Some of the amenities I never thought I would use suddenly became very important. When there was a problem..."
Judith Martin, United States
"We loved our stay in Paris and our apartment was perfect for our family. Our accommodations were well decorated, rooms were huge, and the Paris Perfect staff was extremely helpful. The location was near most restaurants recommended by Rick Steves and very near the museums and market. The master..."
Julian & Elizabeth Greenwood, United States
"Overall, the four of us were very happy with the location and the comfort of the Chateauneuf Apartment. We felt that the folks at Paris Perfect were also very helpful and responsive when we had questions. I would definitely NOT hesitate to book another apartment through Paris Perfect for future..."
Lynne Gioe, United States
"My Husband and I with our 3 children stayed at the apartment Chateanuef in August. Though I had been to Paris several times and stayed at all the fine hotels. This was a truly unique experience. To get breakfast at the market in the morning at Rue de Cler, have my children watch the Eiffel Tower..."
Patrick Duffy, United States
"Our family of 6 stayed in the beautiful Chateauneuf apartment July 12 - 19, 2013. The apartment is in a great location, spacious, light, and breezy with the windows open. Our view of the Eiffel Tower was wonderful, and we watched the incredible Bastille Day fireworks display right from our..."
Frank and Donna Grad & Family, United States
"This lovely apartment was our home for over a week this July and we loved it. It is in great neighborhood that has just the right amount of atmosphere to be enjoyable but not overwhelming. An easy walk to the Metro makes for great access to the city's many beautiful sites. Everything was in..."
Kevin Short, United States
"We had a wonderful time, and felt like royalty while staying in our lovely apartment! The view of the Eifel Tower was particularly magical, especially for the kids. Just the right amount of space - for sharing with friends, and then even after they left! We appreciated the kitchen immensely, and..."
Tracey M, Canada
"There were seven of us, all female except for one grandfather, who stayed at Chateauneuf for a week in March, 2013. Four teenage girls, a mother, grandmother, and grandfather loved every minute of living at this beautiful apartment. The location is perfect -- the Eiffel Tower just a block away;..."
Barbara C, United States
"We absolutely loved our stay at Chateauneuf! We were two families of four, and although I believe the apartment is better suited to 6 people instead of 8, we really never felt cramped or on top of one another. Having laundry facilities was such a plus too. The location was fantastic! The..."
Elizabeth Broz, United States
"Our family of four thoroughly enjoyed our stay in Chateauneuf. The apartment was beautiful and very comfortable. The location was perfect. We felt like long-time Paris residents."
Rob Theriot, United States
"This apartment is spacious and great for couples. The very best thing about the Paris Perfect apartments is their location(s). I have stayed in 3 different apts and each one was wonderful. The company seems to select units with great views and easy access to the Metro and beyond. I chose to stay..."
Nancy Carstens, United States
"Our party was an extended family of 8, with 5 adults and 3 children. We had never tried a service like this before (always staying in hotels) but after some careful research decided to go with Paris Perfect. We were pleased with their reliability and the accuracy of the provided information. The..."
Joseph, United States
"This trip was a graduation Present for our 2 granddaughters both 19 years old. The apartment was spacious and with 3.5 bathrooms so each of the 3 women had no excuse for being late in the mornings. The apartment was very close to Rue Cler with it's local produce and stores selling everything one..."
John & Jane Wallace, USA
"Our first view in the morning and last in the evening was the Eifel Tower. It just doesn't get any better. The apartment is simply lovely and the location perfect. I began my day on the Rue Cler, bringing home all sorts of goodies. Everything we needed was within easy walking distance and the..."
Johnston Family, United States
"We had a wonderful stay in this beautiful apartment. We were a party of six, including our daughter and her husband and our two teenage grandchildren. It was great having a place where we could all be together, but the apartment also afforded each of us our own individual space - a great..."
Sid McAulay, United States
"Chateauneuf was by far the best Paris apartment my family and I have had among the last 5 we have tried out. Paris Perfect is definitely the company we prefer to rent from. The 2 apartments we rented from them were superb as far as location (7th arrondissement) and how well equipped they were. ..."
Anne Nelson, USA
"Chateauneuf was absolutely perfect for our family! We were a group of 7, made up of our teenage children, young adult children, and extended family. There was enough space (and bathrooms!!) for everyone, and free Wi-Fi kept the teens very happy, not to mention the best pizza made on site right..."
Andress Family, USA
"We had a fabulous week at the apartment, at check in Kevin was at the apartment to greet us, warm friendly individual made us very comfortable.
The apartment is large spacious, clean and true to pictures on the website, and most important centrally located.
We had a great time..."
Genevieve, Mavis & Jackie, USA
"We had a few snags in the beginning of our trip but Sarah made sure that were well taken care of! Because of that alone I would book with Perfect Paris any time! Her professionalism, genuine caring and sweet nature were everything you would want when dealing with a Vacation Rental.
Georgia Bell, United States
"We stayed in the Chateauneuf in November 2010 and found the apartment to be exactly as pictured on the website and in immaculate condition. The Paris Perfect team was extremely helpful. We had some difficulty working the internet and the phone and they promptly came to help us. The printed..."
Marsha Delp
"Thank you for a wonderful stay!"
Stephanie S
"I loved the apartment -- really appreciate the list of shopping, restaurants and other services."
Natalie M, Australia
"Fabulous apartment! We hope to return and would definitely stay here again. Thank you very much."
Ann E, USA
"The apartment was a delight very tastefully furnished and well equipped.The neighborhood offers every amenity for a true Parisian experience.Food shopping and dining options are outstanding.The Paris Perfect staff was responsive to our every need.We will definitely book through them again."
Karen Weslar, United States
"We will definitely recommend Paris Perfect to our friends! Friendly staff and helpful! we loved your helpful book of instructions."
Lisa R & Jennifer C, USA
"The apartment was beautiful, spacious and well-equipped...not to mention it had a partial view of the Eiffel Tower!!! Our only negative was the placement of a toilet/sink only next to the kitchen. There was a beautiful shower/sink near the front door, another beautiful shower/sink/washer/dryer down..."
Deborah M. Franklin, United States
"Hi Madelyn, Phillipe and all of the wonderful Paris Perfect team,
Thank you so much for providing us with such a beautiful apartment to stay in whilst in Paris. The apartment was spacious for a family of 6,in a superb location close to the Champ de Mars park, Eiffel Tower (which was..."
The Whitehead Family, Australia
"Sarah made us welcome and was very helpful. We loved the apartment and the location. We will definitely be recommending Paris Perfect to our friends."
Cate W, USA
"My family and I had a wonderful vacation in Paris. The apartment was in an excellent location and the neighborhood was great. The apartment was very comfortable and equipped with everything we needed. It was nice to have a place to call home while we were on vacation. This was definitely the..."
Suydam Family, United States
"Our Paris apartment was simply all we could have hoped for. We were a group of two adults and FOUR teenagers who were all extremely comfortable and enjoyed the location and views and overall experience very much. The apartment had everything you can imagine you might need - even a wonderful..."
Karen Reed, United States
"Our apartment was perfect: comfortable, quiet, lacking nothing we could have desired and safe, ideally situated in Paris. Your recommendations were spot on. Your staff was very helpful and friendly! We will use Paris Perfect from now on!"
Karen & Thomas R
"we loved our stay in Chateauneuf - elegant and comfortable. We have booked for next year."
Cathy H
"Our apartment was truly beautiful with everything you could need (or want). The Paris Perfect team were very warm, professional and always available to answer any questions.
Staying in an apartment was so much more personal than a hotel--you really got to be "of the..."
Kristin Taylor - Washington, DC
"What a wonderful time we had in Paris. Staying in the Chateaneuf apartment made the trip extra special. We felt like true Parisians. The apartment was huge & had every amenity you could want. Our greeter who met us at Chateauneuf was so friendly & helpful. The neighborhood was so..."
Sharon - Marlton, NJ
"We are very late in sending you a review for our great stay in the beautiful Chateauneuf apartment.
We had stayed in the little Pinot in the fall and thought we would try to return in the summer..but as it turned out we had family who decided that a Paris get together was a really..."
Steve Davids & Family
"Beautiful apartments with wonderful views! I am bringing my daughter, Madison, to Paris when she graduates from High School in 2012. I have had your site marked in my favorites for a while now and every once in a while we look at your photos and get so excited! We cannot wait to be there. Tiffany
"Paris Perfect is the best description we could find for our fantastic stay in Paris! Our apartment had a beautiful view of the Eiffel Tower and was within walking distance of the wonderful cafes and restaurants recommended in the packet of information you sent to us. Your team did everything..."
Glenda and Hugh Huston
The location of our Châteauneuf Paris France short term rental couldn't be better - in the heart of the Left Bank's popular 7th arrondissement just a few steps away from Champ du Mars park and the world-famous Eiffel Tower! When you compare Paris apartment short term rentals, being able to stay in one of the safest and nicest neighborhoods greatly enhances your Paris vacation. When you step outside your apartment you're instantly mingling with local Parisians enjoying the many cafés, shops, restaurants, and open markets in this extremely popular, village-like setting.
Gorgeous and spacious living room of the Chateauneuf
Watch the lights sparkle on the Eiffel Tower!
Sunlight streams in through the living room French windows
Mirrored French doors divide the living area from the hall
The perfect place to relax in your Paris apartment
The Eiffel Tower's golden glow at night from your apartment
Toast your stay with a French wine!
The marble fireplace is the focal point for the living room
Gorgeous view of Parisian buildings and the Eiffel Tower
Gracious bedroom 1 with comfortable bed that's fit for royalty
Oversized French door brightens bedroom 1
Gorgeous view across the rooftops to the Eiffel Tower
Bedroom 2 with comfortable beds and flat-screen television
Bedroom 2 with fine furnishings and plenty of seclusion
Large windows in bedroom 3 let in lots of light
Light and bright bedroom 3
Comfortable bed in bedroom 3
A fully-equipped kitchen for endless convenience and savings
Enjoy elegant meals or casual gatherings in the dining area
Enjoy a pastry from a French Bakery at the Breakfast bar
Corridor leads from kitchen toward bathroom 1
Lovely bathroom with tiled shower and sink
Bathroom 2 right next to the bedroom 2
Bathroom 3 with large shower and sink
Half bath with toilet and sink located near living room
Classic Parisian views of the beautiful tree-lined street
Paris rental is just a five-minute walk from the Seine River
Stroll under the Eiffel Tower every day!
Walk to the Metro nearby to reach all the top Paris spots
Dine out at one of the many sidewalk cafés or restaurants
Our favorite cheese shop in Paris is nearby!
Taste the delicious patisseries found all over the area
Walk to the romantic Rodin Museum
Walk to the Eiffel Tower in less than 2 minutes!


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12 x 12 March 2017 Check-In!
While last month's weekend getaway proved to be a very fruitful for writing, this month's Spring Break trip with my kids did not turn out as well writing-wise. But, you know what? That's okay. These kids are only getting older and it's important to enjoy these times as much as possible. I can do more writing in April. (Gotta get it in before summer break starts! 😉 )
Your turn!
Tell us your progress. Did you complete a draft and/or revision in March? Let us know in the Rafflecopter and in the comments. Our prize comes from this month's Featured Author Rosie J. Pova. You could win a picture book manuscript critique from Rosie!
Here is what you need to do to check in for a chance to win:
- See the Rafflecopter widget at the end of this post that says "A Picture Book Manuscript Critique from Rosie J. Pova" at the top.
- Click on the "Comment on Rosie's post" button. Commenting on Rosie's post is mandatory for this giveaway and you can enter the Rafflecopter even if you didn't write a draft this month. You can comment on the post here. Click ENTER.
- Click on the "Wrote a PB Draft" button. This will ask if you completed a PB draft in March. If you did, click ENTER, if not, move on to the next step.
- Click on the last "Revised a PB Draft" button. This will ask if you revised a PB in March. If you did, click ENTER. If not, move on to the next step.
- That's it! Rafflecopter will track your points.
You have until midnight Eastern on April 2nd to enter your results. (Due to Spring Break, this is going up a little late, so we're giving you an extra day to check in.) Rafflecopter will draw a winner and it will be announced on the blog on April 3rd.
(Remember, monthly draft and revision badges are awarded separately from your Rafflecopter entry. Watch this handy tutorial to find out how to get your badges. CLICK HERE.)
a Rafflecopter giveaway
I wrote a March draft and did a couple of revisions.
I had a busy March. I attended the Writing Barn in Austin, TX and came away so inspired that I wrote 4 new manuscripts, revised 4 old manuscripts, subbed twice, and critiqued fellow 12x12er's work. Now if only I can keep this pace up! 🙂
J.D. Silverwood, Wow! Congrats! The Writing barn in Austin,TX is on my professional goal list! How awesome! Keep going!
I am so thrilled to have finished my March manuscript. It's gone through one critique group
and I'm revising it to get ready it to submit to my agent.
Thanks for keeping me up to speed.
Crazy March! It really did come in like a lion! Playing catch up after missing a few weeks to pneumonia. I feel so happy now to finish the writing part of another picture book! On to the next!
Scraping in under the wire – I spent most of the month revising a manuscript, but managed to write a first draft for a new story two days ago! Whew! And Hooray!
I am so thrilled with the progress I've made in writing, learning, networking, querying… 12×12 has been so instrumental to my success. I'm in love!,
Wondering if after all these years I should keep trying but quitting isn't attractive to me.
I reworked a manuscript, changing and enhancing (I hope) the ending!
Woo hoo! Wrote a manuscript and revised a different manuscript! Thanks for the great support.
Check-in complete! Helping myself to some well-earned peanut butter & chocolate for somehow, someway, achieving this month's goals!
It was a busy month. But, it was a great PB month. Thanks to Rosie for being so visible and generous!
Yes, I got important research done for a manuscript, and I wrote a new draft. My spring break didn't happen, so I planted a lot of seeds.
March was a crazy month for me as my writing just puttered along in between medical problems that cropped up big time and resulted in my taking the ambulance to the ER late Friday evening, being admitted, and finally coming home Tuesday afternoon only to go back again last evening and came home at around 12:30 today… however, I did manage to add a new rough draft to my list as well as revise 2 of my old PiBoIdMo picture book manuscripts
Thanks Kelli and Rosie. I find that the 12 x12 website has been the most helpful to me in terms of getting feedback, asking questions as well looking through the abundance of resources. I am on the website all the time to help me learn as a new PB writer.
March was chock full of writing stuff! #50PreciousWords had me reading 251 incredible stories. I wrote a 50-word story for it myself. But I'm not counting that one – because I wrote another nonfiction pb story that I am absolutely in love with. I've already gotten critique feedback and will be revising this weekend. I submitted a pb ms to the SCBWI Work in Progress Grant…and worked hard on revising that to get it where I hope it needed to be…plus my agent is sending something out on submission and I had to write a pitch for it. Sometimes writing the pitch is harder than writing the story. 😉 And the #50PreciousWordsforKids Writing Challenge will kick off early in May to coincide with Children's Book Week. Lots going on…all of it good!
Jumping in here to say thank you again for the lovely, positive 50 words challenge! It was really fun to participate in and I very much enjoyed reading the winning stories. And a big high five for everything else you've also accomplished this month!
I am excited about writing picture books. I am also new to the group.
After many years away from writing I finally managed to write a draft for a pb which, although I liked the story idea, was dissatisfied with how it turned out which left me discouraged, so left it for a couple of weeks! Not to be defeated I have just done some revision which, I feel, has much improved it, but still needs more revision ……………
March was a crazy month, lots of great things happening! I wrote out a few ideas and continued revising a project in progress, yay!
Yay! I got my March draft done (it needs lots of work!) and did a major overhaul revision on an old story. So excited that I am keeping up so far 🙂
Thanks to a great critique group, I rewrote a pb story with a better ending and submitted it! 12×12 has given me opportunities and courage! Thanks to all who share their experiences.
I revised a pb ms and I wrote out two new drafts!
No new story this month, but lots of revisions!
This year has started out terrific…I have just submitted my first manuscript to publishers and I wrote a new manuscript this month. Cheers to everyone ! It is so encouraging to see your comments !
A contest spurred me on to write a new story.
A critique group keeps me revisiting my work and hopefully making it worthy.
I've had a bit of a rotten trot to the start of the year with a bad back. Unable to sit! I don't want to 'moz myself' as we say In Oz but I may be turning the corner. No writing but lots of ideas.
I' a juggler. I write in multiple kidlit genres so part of my struggle is to know where to put my focus and when. I've been a bit heavy on a YA project and just had a breakthrough with my chapter book. But one of my PB's is with my agent and I had a brand new PB idea that is just starting to percolate. I now need to find time to go back and work on ROB OUT a little more. Overall, really happy with the growth I'm making. <3
I revised one manuscript and came up with three new storylines to start in April. So grateful to be part of this community to inspire and spur me on. Happy writing to you all!
I revised a story that I started last April. It's been good to step away from it. I have a new slant to follow now!
Call it March Madness if you will, but I wrote a new PB draft AND revised two "old" drafts. Now I'm feeling like an April fool and hoping that my March mojo continues. Thanks Julie and all the 12×12 peeps for getting and keeping me going.
Wrote new stories. Edited my stories and others'. Attended a Highlights Foundation workshop and an SCBWI event. Grateful to have realized how much I love writing.
March had a dash of madness! Yet I managed to come up with 10 ideas and 1 manuscript, that I will be taking to my critique group. I figured how to upload manuscripts for critique on the forum, which I did, then I managed to figure out how to thank the nice people who invested time and thinking power to critique my story, and, finally, I gave my words of wisdom to other fellow writers. My goal for April is to complete 2 manuscripts!
March has. Been a month of highs and lows for me. My mother died on March 2nd and a friend of mine, Caroline, had major cancer surgery. I stayed with her at night for this past month (she had a health care worker during the day and a visiting nurse, but since she's my best friend I volunteered to be with her at night). Her situation has deteriorated and she just went into hospice care. Those are the lows, and they've been pretty big lows for me. A high, of course, was that I signed a contract this month with Eerdmans for a picture book. I was sorry that I couldn't share that news with my mom, but I did get to celebrate with my best friend and fellow writer before she went into hospice.
I spent 10 hours a day caring for my 4-year-old granddaughter and 12 hours a day with my sick friend. That left me two hours a day. I didn't get as much writing done this month as I would have liked. In fact, we cancelled our weekly critique group since half of the group (me and Caroline) couldn't come. But I did manage to write one new picture book, work on two others that still aren't jelling yet, and revise one that my online 12×12 group critiqued.
I haven't been as active on 12×12 boards as I'd liked, but I've tried hard to keep up. I love this group!
So sorry to hear about your deep loss and difficult month. Children are a great light to focus on – and writing. Good for you for being present in all you had going on. Sending good vibes and prayers your way.
Thank you, Erin. I love watching my granddaughter during the day! She helps me focus on other things — she's so joyful and full of life and energy. And she and her older sister have been the source of inspiration for several of my manuscripts.
I'm sorry for your loss, and the news of your friend's illness. Also congratulations on your contract. What a stressful month- I hope you get a chance to take of yourself too.
Thank you, Yvonne. Now that my friend has gone into hospice, I'm no longer spending the night with her, so I will have more time to write. And writing always, always, always makes me feel better. (So why do I have days when I'd rather clean the toilets than write?)
Revision road has been long, but I think I've needed the time to reflect on this one. I did write 2 new MS! Now to priorotize and get to the critique point. Also ready to get in the agent query Jungle. (Insert Tarzan call here).
I have 2.5 rough drafts from March and am revising one from February that won't get out of my head- I guess that's a good sign! My 19month old had surgery this month so I'm actually amazed that I got anything done.
Busy March – but not with writing. Wrote up a short story of a memory from childhood that I hope some may be able to relate to, and edited an older manuscript as well!
Thanks! It has been a productive month!
I'm excited that I'm keeping up monthly with new PB manuscripts! I already have 2 spinning around in my head for April. This group is great incentive! Thanks!!
One draft accomplished for March!
This has been a busy month. I was able to do another revision, write my query letter, and do a few submissions! Goal for next month is to take some ideas to first drafts! Let's see if I can make it happen.
March was a good writing month. A SFDraft….really S-ty. Forever revising old manuscripts. here it is April 2nd and a new line for an old story popped up this morning! Yay!
March was a good month for revising! Managed to write a decent new first draft too. :3
I'm really feeling the momentum of 12×12 now – I'm thinking about writing every day, and I feel the (good) peer pressure to keep making new things each month/week/day. It's all leading to more productivity, which means better odds of being in my writing chair and studio when inspiration hits. Thank you!
I wrote an new PB draft and came up with a few new storylines to work on this month. I am still learning about all the great opportunities and support with 12 x 12 and looking to increase my involvement this month. 🙂
I wrote an new PB draft and came up with a few new storylines to work on this month. I am still learning about all the great opportunities and support with 12 x 12 and looking to increase my involvement this month. 🙂


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20111022_NC State vs Virginia ACC Football
Oct. 22, 2011 - Charlottesville, Virginia - USA; North Carolina State kicker Niklas Sade (32) kicks the ball during an NCAA football game against the Virginia Cavaliers at the Scott Stadium. NC State defeated Virginia 28-14. (Credit Image: © Andrew Shurtleff/
Copyright Andrew Shurtleff