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Thursday, March 12, 2009
Dealing With Frustration
Confession time: I'm having a frustrating day. But hey, it completely goes with the territory. This is a frustrating business. There are more books than slots at publishing houses, and that's the case now more than ever. Frustration happens. It's the nature of life in the book funnel.
It's also just built into the business. When you hear about a publisher jumping from $2.5 million to $3 million in an auction for a celebrity book, it's easy to think, "Uh... that publisher just nickle and dimed my client and refused to give them even $1,000 more when they really deserved it. And they passed on another project because they didn't want to take a risk on a debut. But they won't even blink at jumping $500,000 in an auction for a book about Paris Hilton's chihuahua?" (Okay, it is kind of a cute dog. Also I'm kidding, that's not an actual book. Yet. UPDATE: Oops! Yes, it is.)
And then of course, there's the aforementioned rejections, bad reviews, negativity, and strange whims of fate.
Depressed? Don't be!
Here's the only way to deal with the frustrations of the publishing business: don't become fixated on the publishing business.
You'll. Go. Mad. if you place all of your eggs in the basket of publishing, following the ins and outs, letting it consume your entire being, and living and dying by your rejections, reviews, and what mean anonymous commenters are saying about you on any given day.
It's soooo easy to let publishing become an all-consuming force in your life. It takes so much time to write, and then there are the blogs to follow, the agents to research, the publishers to keep track of, the industry news, the rejections to track... it takes a lot of time. Combine that with a day job and there aren't many hours in the day left.
But it just can't be everything.
The best way to deal with the frustrations: ignore it for a while. Take a walk! Spend time with your friends and family! (Remember them? It's okay to ask them to remind you what their names are. They'll just be glad to have you back.). Take up a second, less frustrating hobby, like sunflower photography. Better yet: start rooting for the Sacramento Kings to see what frustration really feels like. The publishing industry has nothing on being a Kings fan.
If you find yourself becoming down in the dumps about your prospects or the business or the state of things: It's probably a sign you're spending too much time focused on it. It's perfectly okay to tune out for a while. When you clear your head and come back: all of a sudden the industry will magically seem like a place of hope and possibility.
Because the difference between seeing opportunity and frustration in this business is all in your head. It's just a matter of how your brain is looking at it that day.
Please share your favorite method of distraction in the comments section!
178 comments:
- Dara said...
For me, it's playing on the Wii. More specifically, playing Animal Crossing :P
Also, watching movies helps as well as old episodes of Gilmore Girls. Something about that show just makes me forget about the frustrations of life. Maybe it's because I'm so focused on following the fast paced dialogue between Rory and Lorelai. Who knows :P
- March 12, 2009 at 1:51 PM
- Kat Harris said...
For me, it's searching youtube for really bad videos from the 80s.
There's nothing more entertaining than ABC and the B-52s. Well . . . :-)
- March 12, 2009 at 1:53 PM
- Beezer the First said...
A few frustrated friends and I started a happy blog. Taking time to post things there, and visiting them as frequently as needed, is really, really soothing.
- March 12, 2009 at 1:55 PM
There actually is a book about Tinkerbell Hilton. http://www.amazon.com/Tinkerbell-Hilton-Diaries-Tailing-Paris/dp/0446694304
Does this frustrate you even more?
- March 12, 2009 at 2:05 PM
- Kimber An said...
However, that may only work for the female of our species. Dunno. Mountain Dew works for my Heroic Husband. Try that.
- March 12, 2009 at 2:05 PM
Looking like a female John Wayne right now. Was so frustrated I decided to go for a ride (on a horse). To bad you couldn't have suggested a WALK two days ago!
Now off subject, if you have time. On a query letter, is it appropriate to leave everything about yourself off, if the only asset you have is a large chest? I don't think that is going to get me very far with most agents!
- March 12, 2009 at 2:06 PM
- Heather said...
I focus on my writing. Maybe that's lame, but when I have something out on submission, instead of looking through reports about what is selling and what agents are picking up, I just focus on my next book.
That way, I figure if this book doesn't sell, I can maybe sell the next one and then some agent might be able to sell my old stuff too.
I enjoy my positive world bubble (painted with cynical stripes).
- March 12, 2009 at 2:06 PM
- abc said...
Interpretive dance. Home alone. Turn it up and move. Lately I've been preferring that David Byrne & Brian Eno album. I hope my neighbors don't see me.
- March 12, 2009 at 2:06 PM
- Ink said...
Seriously, go watch the first thirty minutes of Saving Private Ryan and remind yourself that it could have been your generation charging up that beach. Perspective is a beautiful thing.
My best, as always,
Bryan Russell
- March 12, 2009 at 2:08 PM
I like to read. Y'all should try it, it's a great way to escape.
- March 12, 2009 at 2:08 PM
Methods of distraction?
First, like Dara above, Animal Crossing for the Wii! Oh, how I would move into that video game if it were possible! Lazy days of picking and selling fruit, fishing, and mingling with the laid-back animal villagers.. ahhh.. It is THE BEST.
Second, I like to indulge in a bowl of some sort of hot fudge chocolate thing (or brownies, or cookies, etc.) while watching reruns of Dawson's Creek on DVD.
Third.. Oh goodness. I'm glad none of you know me as I am embarrassed to admit this hobby of mine... I like to make fan videos!! There, I said it. I make fan videos of my favorite fictional couples from my favorite daytime and primetime soaps and publish them to youtube.
So.. there you have it. Sometimes I actually have to pry myself away from those things to get any writing done...
Confession is good for the soul, right? :)
- March 12, 2009 at 2:09 PM
x x
- March 12, 2009 at 2:09 PM
- Patti said...
I do anything to be away from the computer. My favourite is playingy soccer and watching my kids play basketball.
- March 12, 2009 at 2:10 PM
- Lisa Schroeder said...
I think in some ways, that's why it's good I still have the day job.
As far as entertaining distractions, Friday Night Lights. Love it, love it, LOVE IT! Riggins can make anything better.
- March 12, 2009 at 2:10 PM
- Thomma Lyn said...
I hike regularly in the mountains. It rejuvenates me on all levels and keeps my head on straight.
Another favorite activity: playing my piano, getting swept away by music. When I return to earth, things look better again. :)
And cats. There's nothing like cats: unconditional friendship, purrs, warm fuzzies, and they give me the gigglesnorts with their antics.
- March 12, 2009 at 2:13 PM
Let's make the rich celebrity slobs richer. Why not?
- March 12, 2009 at 2:16 PM
- Deaf Indian Muslim Anarchist! said...
good blog, Nate. I get frustrated every once in a while, but I gotta keep my cool or I'll go CRAZY!!!
- March 12, 2009 at 2:16 PM
Primary Responsibilities, maybe. Yeah, that's it. Responsibilities fit nicely in the Distraction Class.
- March 12, 2009 at 2:20 PM
- Bane of Anubis said...
Second what Bryan said...
The day I got laid off, my biggest fear was telling my wife (particularly since I'd told her there was a 99% chance I was safe only two day before - yeah, I know I jinxed myself) - she took it a lot better than I expected... and of course knew how to put things in perspective:
she'd just seen the CT for a 26 year old female who had metastatic cancer and rightly let me know that there are far worse things than rejection.
And yeah, there are a select few people who are more fortunate than most of us by far, but I'd definitely bet a fat load of cash I can't afford right now that most of our fortunes are far better than the majority of people across the world, many who don't have the luxury or time to even dream of pursuing dreams.
Of course, rejection and idiot celebs still suck :).
- March 12, 2009 at 2:21 PM
- Rick Daley said...
My favorite method of distraction is reading Celebrity Memoirs, especially about their spoiled pets. Love. Them.
Just kidding. What I really do is post comments on blogs.
- March 12, 2009 at 2:22 PM
- Dara said...
Ash D, I would move into that game too if I could. I believe my house in that game is bigger than where I live now :P
And I also make fan videos on YouTube too, although I haven't been able to make one in more than a year. *Sigh* I miss that...
- March 12, 2009 at 2:23 PM
Honda VTX1300, full tank of gas, and a long and winding road.
Hey, I'm no longer a lurker!
- March 12, 2009 at 2:24 PM
Sounds like being a Kings fan is equivalent to being a Kansas City Chiefs fan...seriously, how many years can a team say they're "rebuilding?" Aaah...maybe next season.
Methods of distraction: Playing Mario Party on Nintendo w/ the hubby and kids (I know, we're old-school and don't have a Wii yet). Actually, doing anything with the kids is a complete and refreshing distraction.
My other recent distraction reveals my extreme level of geekitude. My husband and I don't watch TV at all...BUT...on a recommendation, we recently ordered the new Battlestar Gallactica series on Netflix and talk about distracting. It's "hey, maybe we can put the kids to bed early and stay up til midnight so we can get in another episode so we can mail it back and get the next disc" distracting. Scary, but for any other sci-fi dorks like us, it's amazing! :)
- March 12, 2009 at 2:24 PM
- Marilyn Peake said...
Nathan -
You are wonderful. I really believe it's best to keep at least one eye on the optimistic side of things because that's how you'll spot the trail that leads to success. As you've said, writing and publishing can become all-consuming. For writers, it often needs to be all-consuming in order to keep our brains wrapped around a complicated writing project and see it through to the end. Thanks for sharing about the frustrations that literary agents face. Here are my favorite methods of distraction from writing:
1.) Time with family.
2.) Watching movies. I just discovered a great indie movie about time travel: "Primer". And I cannot wait to see "Watchmen", now in theaters!
3.) Photography - one of my favorite hobbies.
4.) Traveling – I just booked a vacation with one of the amazing deals being offered right now, paying just a fraction of the normal cost.
5.) Brand new hobbies. I took my first skiing lesson a few weeks ago after crossing skiing off the list of things I would ever do.
6.) Playing computer games - this is very new to me, another brand new hobby, actually.
7.) Physical exercise, although, alas, I tend to let that go when I'm writing.
8.) When I'm writing something that takes a long time to write, especially a novel, I sometimes write much shorter pieces including flash fiction and start submitting them.
9.) Mocha lattes with 2 shots of espresso, whip cream and chocolate sauce on top. I'm drinking one right now. I feel better already. Yummmmm...
- March 12, 2009 at 2:24 PM
- Nixy Valentine said...
Love the post, Nathan, and it's so perfectly timed.
Thanks for having the most positive negativity week ever! ♥
- March 12, 2009 at 2:26 PM
- Writer from Hell said...
never fails
- March 12, 2009 at 2:27 PM
- Dharma Kelleher said...
Spending some quality time at http://icanhascheezburger.com/ helps me out.
- March 12, 2009 at 2:28 PM
- Colorado Writer said...
March Madness
a new puppy
Wii bowling
- March 12, 2009 at 2:29 PM
- Natalie said...
I draw. It's so relaxing to me to spend that time to make something beautiful. Takes my mind off everything else.
- March 12, 2009 at 2:29 PM
- ella144 said...
I play video games with my sons and husband. A little mild gratuitous violence or winning a few races in MarioKart really helps to work out those frustrations.
Other ways include reading a really good book (Jane Austin, C.Bronte, or Laurie King) either with my cat, who has excellent taste in literature, or out loud to my kids, who also have excellent taste. I do the different voices and sometimes act out scenes. We usually end up laughing so hard I can't read any longer. It's a riot! Laughter is great for frustration.
Also digging in my garden, or if all else fails, ranting to my husband. He's very patient and let's me vent it all out of my system. Then I'm good and get back to writing.
- March 12, 2009 at 2:29 PM
- Anna said...
oh no, not a KINGS fan!
although being a Niners fan as of the last several years as been a soul destroying I mean strengthening sort of walk.
this made me giggle. ta love...
and yes, sport is one way of getting ones head out of the mind numbing cloud of what the business side of writing entails...
- March 12, 2009 at 2:32 PM
- Marilyn Peake said...
I. Did. Not. See. That. Update. About. The. Paris Hilton. Chihuahua. Book. Noooooooooo...
Oh, wait, positive spin - that is a truly perfect ending to Negativity Week. :)
- March 12, 2009 at 2:32 PM
- T. Anne said...
My favorite distraction? Writing.
- March 12, 2009 at 2:33 PM
Dara - I agree about the AC house being bigger than my real house! Although, at least with my real house, I never have to wonder what the Happy Room Academy will have to say about any new furniture I buy ;)
And making fan videos is so fun and addictive! It's very therapeutic to take much-loved characters and favorite scenes, rearrange them and put them to a fitting piece of music!
Good stuff! Glad to know I'm not alone in my choice of hobbies :)
- March 12, 2009 at 2:34 PM
- Writer from Hell said...
for the moment: The stone roses - Where angels play
(audio only)
- March 12, 2009 at 2:34 PM
Reading, bubble baths, American Idol,Ghost Hunters,America's Next Top Model(did you see the girl with huge fishy eyes?),and knitting---I can only make scarves (if anyone needs one).
- March 12, 2009 at 2:35 PM
Losing myself in a good TV show or movie. Or reading a good book. Playing Texas Hold'em either online or at the home of buddies once a month. Gardening.
But when all else fails, curling up into a fetal ball, sucking my thumb and banging my forehead slowly against a wall to the opening section of the theme from the movie version of 'Exodus'...sometimes, to put in a bit of variety, I'll do it to 'Thus Sprake Zarathustra' sometimes identified as the theme for 2001. Painful,of course, but a good pain. And I feel so much less frustrated when I quit.
- March 12, 2009 at 2:37 PM
- Allegory19 said...
I couldn't agree more Coll - except I crochet instead of knit. I finished my first baby blanket in 2 days! Nothing like mindless repetition to get my mind off rejection. =)
- March 12, 2009 at 2:39 PM
- joelle said...
Cubs fan here. I got your frustration. A hundred years of it.
Great advice. And baseball season starts soon so I'm covered.
- March 12, 2009 at 2:40 PM
- Elizabeth Cota said...
The master chief and I spend a lot of time killing covenant and flood to get over trying to be a professional author.
On the other hand, I'm also finishing a master's thesis in economics, so that'll take you someplace sci-fi doesn't go so easily. Once that is done (please soon!!!) hopefully a day job will take its place.
- March 12, 2009 at 2:42 PM
Hey, who was it that was going to put query letters for us to comment on their own personal site? Are they still doing that?
- March 12, 2009 at 2:43 PM
- sex scenes at starbucks said...
- March 12, 2009 at 2:44 PM
- Tiffany Schmidt said...
My day/pay job is a 6th grade teacher and you're absolutely right about how perspective is so important. Sometimes when I see the kiddos stressed out over a B on a test or not wearing the right skinny jeans or who has the newest sparkliest cell phone, I want to say "Seriously? You're upset over that? It's not a big deal." But it is a big deal to them – in the same way rejection or publication industry angst is a big deal to me. I'm sure others would look at me and think the same things. So I try and follow the same advice I give them: Being stressed isn't healthy or productive; it just drains energy. Look for ways to change/fix a stressful situation. Breathe! (This one last one we painted across our ceiling tiles).
- March 12, 2009 at 2:45 PM
- sex scenes at starbucks said...
anon 11:43-- a great way to get feedback on queries is at http://crapometer.blogspot.com
word ver: reads
- March 12, 2009 at 2:46 PM
- Nathan Bransford said...
Did I mention I'm also a 49ers fan?
- March 12, 2009 at 2:47 PM
- Tyler said...
Oh, the Kings! And Anna-the 49ers are on the upswing, Woot singletary!
But yes, it's very easy to go NUTS with all the waiting and research and blogs, not to mention the-gasp-writing.
My distractions: reading and playing water polo.
- March 12, 2009 at 2:48 PM
- Eiko said...
The Hills. I have no idea why (well I do, but now is not the time for an analysis of its brilliance) but it works.
Also - you are amazing. It was comforting to read this post.
- March 12, 2009 at 2:53 PM
Thanks, SSAS!
- March 12, 2009 at 2:54 PM
- Steve Fuller said...
Try living in Cincinnati and being a Bengals fan.
Talk about frustration and despair.
- March 12, 2009 at 2:56 PM
- writermomof5 said...
Ah... 49er fans must stick together in these trying times.
I play. Walk away from the keyboard, grab a ball, a child or two -- there's enough around her believe me -- and go outside and play. If it's ugly outside, balloon volleyball... does the trick every time.
- March 12, 2009 at 2:56 PM
- Wilkie said...
This blog SOOO addressed what I've been feeling lately! For my bf, the writer, he plays NCAA football on his Play Station. For me, I guess I've just tuned out to helping out for awhile- forced myself to stop religiously checking email and researching agents until I feel a little refreshed. I nice, hard workout works wonders, too.
- March 12, 2009 at 2:58 PM
In no particular order:
Walking with my dog.
Battlestar Galactica.
Very long nap.
Making art.
Cuddling with the hub.
Calling my mom.
Cleaning the house (last resort)
- March 12, 2009 at 3:04 PM
- Diana said...
Uh, drinking comes to mind. We're writers, after all. Don't the two go hand in hand?
Excellent for relieving frustration and sometimes even providing inspiration (although I would recommend some serious editing of said inspiration once you're sober).
- March 12, 2009 at 3:07 PM
- Have you ever wondered... said...
This post is eerily on target. My mind has been on the subject of frustration with my hopeful career and how there never seems to be enough time/opportunity/luck when it comes to my writing. Thanks so much for the reminder of what is important.
- March 12, 2009 at 3:11 PM
- Michael Pickett said...
My distraction is sports. I love them. Can't get enough of them. Although, I am from Sacramento, so the recent years have been kind of frustrating, too. The Sacramento Kings, which you know about, the 49ers and the Giants have been very bad recently. There are some glimmers of hope for the San Fran teams, though. Until they pick up gain, I lose myself in the love of sport. That'll have to be good enough for now.
- March 12, 2009 at 3:12 PM
When I get frustated I like to pull weeds. There is nothing like jabbing that sharp pointy stick into the ground and prying those suckers out. I don't know what I'll do if I ever get ahead of the weeds but I don't think that is something I need worry about for quite some time.
- March 12, 2009 at 3:18 PM
- Dara said...
Anon @ 11:35--
Yes I saw that girl on ANTM with the huge eyes. I don't think that freaked me out as much as the fact she has an odd fascination with blood o_O
Oh yes, and ANTM is one of my guilty addictions.
- March 12, 2009 at 3:21 PM
- Vancouver Dame said...
Frustration happens to me when the cause is something that I can't personally affect. It's that feeling of being the small human against the universe. My love of control in my own life is thwarted. So I usually first put on music in the jazz, or blues variety. Then I try to get outside for fresh air -- something that the business or corporate world can't control - yet. Distancing from the emotion of being frustrated can help. I also vent to the significant other to get it off my chest. I refuse to accept it as defeat.
I may curse the cause or the instigator, but not publicly. Maybe I'll work that frustration into a scene, since the feeling is so fresh. Whatever works at the moment is my motto.
This is a tough question, since it can be affected by how you felt that morning when you woke up as well as by the weather. But it beats anger, for me.
- March 12, 2009 at 3:24 PM
- Mira said...
Anon 11:43 - Rick Daley just started a site for people to submit queries and comment on them.
Nathan, I enjoyed reading your...what do you call it? Blog? Article? Post? Well, I thought it was well said.
I am really, really good at distraction. I'm so sad it's not a marketable skill because I'm terrific at it.
I like e-mailing friends. That's fun. I like computer games. Alot. I like reading and commenting on blogs. Major fun. I like reading my favorite books over and over. That's fun, too.
When I get out of the house, seeing friends, of course. I love to go to Barnes and Noble and spend hours there reading books. And getting into nature. Just going somewhere beautiful and sticking your toes into a stream washes a bunch of stuff away.
- March 12, 2009 at 3:25 PM
- David Eric Tomlinson said...
Working out, hands down.
- March 12, 2009 at 3:27 PM
- Jo said...
A 5-mile hike every day. And the constant presence of my 21-month old. Can't really fixate on anything but what's most important. And that is writing.
- March 12, 2009 at 3:35 PM
- Stephanie Faris said...
There came a time when I had to cut ties with my writing group. I'd become consumed with which publisher was looking for which type of book, etc. All around me were people struggling to get published, writing books tailor-made to what publishers supposedly wanted, but then constantly I'd see some newbie who had no idea what it was all about come in and sell without knowing she wasn't supposed to sell so easily. I finally realized there's a point where you take what you've learned and just WRITE. Write from the heart and put it out there and stop obsessing over what publishers want. Of course, that's not working either yet...but at least I'm happier!
- March 12, 2009 at 3:36 PM
- Thomas Burchfield said...
Frustration? Oh, there's plenty. Deep breaths, think about something else.
If the writing is frustrating, I'll walk away from it by trolling online at a few news sites (I'm wrestling through two of the most frustrating chapters in my book; I finally nailed one down yesterday . . . but I'll save that talk for the Red Room.).
One thing I've done is almost entirely stop watching TV news, whose only purpose is to profit off dread and frustration (I now prefer Turner Classics or one of the other movie channels).
Thomma Lyn: You're very lucky! I wish I had mountains close by!
- March 12, 2009 at 3:39 PM
Thanks, Mira. That was what I was looking for. Is Rick still doing that? I couldn't find it.
Sex Scenes at Starbucks,
I just looked at that site you posted. Really cool site. I tagged it to my favorites. Thanks!
- March 12, 2009 at 3:41 PM
- L.C. Gant said...
Didn't Paris Hilton already come out with a book awhile back? Something about how great it was to be rich and fabulous and some other equally nauseating drivel? *head desk*
Moving on...
I love to pick up a book by a new author when I get frustrated. To me, there's nothing more inspiring than seeing that folks are still having their work published and making a living off of it, even if I'm not yet one of them.
And of course, my hubby and kiddo always help me put things in perspective.
If all else fails, I'm with Kimber An--never underestimate the power of chocolate :)
- March 12, 2009 at 3:45 PM
- ryan field said...
TV is a great distraction...especially the home and garden channel or the cooking network.
Sports works, too.
Gardening is another.
But anything that isn't publishing related works. You need a break every now and then, and you have to recognize the importance of stepping back.
- March 12, 2009 at 3:46 PM
I'm frustrated too! But I know how to deal with mine!
I will go over my apocalyptic fiction manuscript and remove all the comas, chop all the sentences down to be as short as possible, get rid of quotation marks and replace green trees and ocean vistas with roasting infants and bands of cannibals!
Then I will be a best selling artist!
- March 12, 2009 at 3:50 PM
Just as the first commenter I turn to Gilmore Girls repeats in the afternoon - for me though it's a love-to-hate thing. Bad chick lit works the same voodoo.
When times are really tough I buy a gallon of coffee & a disgusting amount of ice cream, then hide out in the cinema. One long afternoon at the movies with Ben & Jerry makes the world a warm & fuzzy place once more!
- March 12, 2009 at 3:52 PM
- Laura D said...
- This comment has been removed by the author.
- March 12, 2009 at 3:53 PM
- Laura D said...
I side with writing to ignore all the literary/publishing rules to relieve frustration. Knowing they wouldn't like it spurs me on to be rebellious. And a nod with Dara about the Gilmore Girls. Fav line "monkey monkey underpants". Sometimes that's what's in my brain too! lol
- March 12, 2009 at 3:55 PM
- Amber Lynn Argyle said...
When I can't stand it anymore, I read.
Right now, my agent has sent out my MS out to ten different publishing houses. I've been waiting to hear something for over five months.
*groan and shudder*
I think I'll go read some more . . .
- March 12, 2009 at 3:57 PM
- Mira said...
Anon 11:45 - Re. Rick's new site - I have it linked at home. I'll post it later today after work.
- March 12, 2009 at 3:57 PM
- Mira said...
Anon 11:43 - I found it. The Public Query Slushpile. Go up to Rick's name above, and click on his profile. There's a link there.
- March 12, 2009 at 3:58 PM
- Emilie said...
Thanks for this.
- March 12, 2009 at 3:59 PM
- Joann Mannix said...
No certain order:
Bubble Baths.
Loud U2.
Pretending to dissect the complexities of the wine,when really just getting my drink on.
Working Out-clears the head and keeps the dreaded upper arm wobble, under control.
Watching those shameless bitches-Housewives of New York and Atlanta.
Really dark chocolate.
A daily dose of Nathan's sunshiny positivity!
And for all you frustrated Cubbie fans-rent the charmer of a movie, "Diminished Capacity." Great movie that perfectly captures our legendary frustration.
- March 12, 2009 at 4:05 PM
- Margaret Welman Paez said...
Interesting article here on publishing:
- March 12, 2009 at 4:08 PM
- Mercy Loomis said...
The way I deal with any kind of stress is to take a nice long bath and read a book, preferably with fruit or something to munch on. Recently I've started playing Rock Band 2 - I love to sing and it's very therapeutic to sing through a few songs - especially ones I don't know. I used to hate sight-singing but now it's a challenge! My husband is also very good at getting me to stop thinking about things, at least for a little while. Ah, what would I do without him?
As for when stuff is sent out, I just refuse to think about it. Once it's out of my hands I start working on something new. We have a rule - never worry about what you can't effect. But venting about it is just fine.
- March 12, 2009 at 4:08 PM
- Vodka Mom said...
I go an all expenses paid conference at Daytona beach= stay at the Hilton, drink a LOT of martinis and get fried at the beach.
that's what I do.
- March 12, 2009 at 4:09 PM
- Carley said...
Music, long walks, cooking, playing with my kids, plus I have a new puppy, who is beyond cute, and a wonderful distraction.
Ultimately, I just have to step away from the 'drawing board' for a minute, which is sort of like coming up for air sometimes. Take a few breaths and start it all again.
- March 12, 2009 at 4:13 PM
- Carley said...
I have to add, once I was voicing a few frustrations along these very lines to my mom, who listened for a long time and then said, "I thought you liked writing?" I had to laught, and say, "Oh, yeah I do."
- March 12, 2009 at 4:15 PM
- Jen said...
For me, nothing is as good as dancing. I study street latin, so a bit of salsa or cha cha or anything else that's fast and takes a lot of concentration always leaves me in a much better mood.
Also, old movies from the 1940s to transport me to a different place. Oh, and I can distract myself for hours on end messing around in Photoshop!
- March 12, 2009 at 4:16 PM
- Mystery Robin said...
I agree that the Gilmore Girls are always a good choice.
Then there's always Bejeweled2. Or if you want to be more cutting edge, Peggle.
- March 12, 2009 at 4:19 PM
- Whirlochre said...
Bubble bath is good, as is shouting in the attic.
At the moment I'm going through a prolonged phase of distraction shaving.
- March 12, 2009 at 4:19 PM
- Shaun Hutchinson said...
For me it's anything and everything. TV, friends, vacations. It's difficult, but we have to keep reminding ourselves that we're more than just writers. Sure, we're writers and that takes up a lot of our time, but if we don't enjoy the worlds outside of the ones we create, then we're missing out on a heck of a lot.
A Product of Fear
- March 12, 2009 at 4:26 PM
- lotusgirl said...
When I can't stand the frustration, I read or watch a good movie.
- March 12, 2009 at 4:37 PM
- Diane T said...
Best way to alleviate frustration: go to animal shelter and pet homeless cats. Purr therapy always works for me.
And to you Kings, Chiefs, 49ers, Browns fans ... I say HA! I am a Detroit Lions fan, and it has taught me more about frustration and hope than anything else.
- March 12, 2009 at 4:38 PM
- Heidi the Hick said...
I am really lucky: I go to my friend's place, head out to her backyard, and ride a horse. Best of all, she needs me to do that for her. Over winter she doesn't have as many students in lessons, so the horses need exercise.
I actually stop thinking about agents and editors. My brain is full of walk-jog transitions and collection/impulsion, turns on the haunches, and getting that perfect soft whoa.
And I also notice the colour of the sky, shape of clouds, dog chasing snowflakes, and the sound of the snorting horse. I don't know what I'd do without my horse time.
- March 12, 2009 at 4:39 PM
- Liz said...
The best outlet - writing.
- March 12, 2009 at 4:50 PM
- Michelle Muto said...
Another great, uplifting, and VERY true post. Thanks, Nathan.
So, how do I deal? Writer friends, family, my dogs, and eating chocolate while reading blogs and posts like this.
- March 12, 2009 at 4:52 PM
- Meg Trotter said...
Thanks for this. I needed it today. It really applies to my area of work too.
I'm a journalist and have been hit with more discouraging news about the newspaper industry in general today (plus aggrivations at the place I work), and have been feeling pretty low all afternoon.
Reading this helped my mood. :)
- March 12, 2009 at 5:02 PM
- MaLanie said...
I remind myself what the Tao Te Ching says...
When nothing is done nothing is left undone...
Meaning let the universe work it out. All is perfect as it is and everything will work out in it's own time.
I also, like to watch Ambition To Meaning by Wayne Dyer as it helps me get a grip on reality. I highly recommened it.
And then I go eat a lot of chocolate!
Nathan, I hope your day gets better. ((Hugs))
- March 12, 2009 at 5:08 PM
- other lisa said...
Chargers fan here. Sigh...
Oh, and the Padres. Double-sigh...
I have a bunch of things I usually do, most of which boil down to being productive on some level, controlling the things you can control. None of those are working too well at the moment, so I think I'm going to read a book. Or, is there an ANTM marathon on today?
- March 12, 2009 at 5:09 PM
Diane T.
Re: Being a Lions fan. Okay, you win, but if there had been a Loserbowl for the 2 worst teams, the Chiefs would have been there with them! :)
- March 12, 2009 at 5:15 PM
- Lady Glamis said...
Ah, distractions for frustration. Yep, other hobbies for sure. As if my whining toddler wasn't enough to distract me from writing....
- March 12, 2009 at 5:26 PM
- Linnea said...
I have another passion. I love growing grapes and have a small vineyard.
Also, in addition to working on my current novel, I've begun writing online nonfiction articles that give me a bit of instant gratification for each page view. Only pennies but it's fun.
- March 12, 2009 at 5:29 PM
- Litgirl01 said...
Balance is important...nothing can be your WHOLE life.
- March 12, 2009 at 5:35 PM
- Wanda B. Ontheshelves said...
Find Your Peeps - if you feel frustrated because you don't have an audience (not QUITE the same thing as "getting an agent" or "getting a publisher"), think of fun marketing campaigns to get your stuff in front of people's eyeballs. I don't mean self-publishing - I mean something fun, that's easy, that will "make someone's day."
Have a Political Laugh - I go to a certain website that shall remain nameless, and laugh and laugh and laugh, sometimes until my sides hurt (I'm thinking of a particular video last fall, that shall also remain nameless).
Visit Fabric Store - anyone with me on this one?
Dance. Have that one piece of music that centers you on why you write/create in the first place - for me, Marvin Gaye's Inner City Blues - I love that song, it obliterates all frustrations.
Hmm, are these really distractions? Oh well.
- March 12, 2009 at 5:41 PM
I like going in fabric stores, but I can't sew worth a hoot.
Cool Linea, I have always been fascinated by vineyards since "Parent Trap", that and I love kool-aid wine (that is wine that taste like kool-aid).
- March 12, 2009 at 5:50 PM
CORRECTION: apparently I can't type worth a hoot either.
"Cool, Linea, I have always been fascinated by vineyards since "Parent Trap", that and I love kool-aid wine (that is wine that tastes like kool-aid)."
- March 12, 2009 at 5:52 PM
- Horserider said...
- This comment has been removed by the author.
- March 12, 2009 at 5:53 PM
- Rachel said...
I gave up on the Kings when we gave away Jimmy Jackson, Keon Clark, and Damon Jones. Remember them? Sigh.
- March 12, 2009 at 5:54 PM
- Taire said...
30 minute workout, 30 minute swim, hot shower. omg, all is right with the world.
- March 12, 2009 at 6:00 PM
- Horserider said...
There is nothing a good bowl of ice cream and some awesome music won't solve. I plan to keep my fridge stocked with ice cream when I start querying. :) In fact, I could use some now.
- March 12, 2009 at 6:00 PM
- annerallen said...
I play in the dirt. Plant something. Pull weeds. Gardening is about hope.
- March 12, 2009 at 6:08 PM
- Corey Blake said...
I like to have so many projects going on that bad news from one is always set off by brilliant news on other fronts. I used to have a sign up in my office that read, "What have you done to create good news today?" My goal used to be to create 10 opportunities for good news. As I have built my business I spread that mentality to my staff and literally any day, one piece of rejection about a project can be offset by 20 other small and large victories. Go Fishing!
- March 12, 2009 at 6:13 PM
- superwench83 said...
It's still like writing in that you're following a plot and worried about character development, but it's different enough that it's a nice break from writing. And there's an added benefit: When you finish the final draft of a novel, no one applauds and cheers. But when you put on a play, they do. And that's a great feeling.
- March 12, 2009 at 6:15 PM
- IQOkie said...
When I'm not writing, I'm reading about writing. Or if the situation gets really ugly, I have to pull out the big guns and read my favorite humor authors--Garrison Keillor and David Sedaris--to remember what it feels like to laugh.
- March 12, 2009 at 6:15 PM
- Jen said...
When I get frustrated with the writing world, I eat chocolate. And write random death scenes for characters that are acting up. Haha.
- March 12, 2009 at 6:16 PM
- Nikki Hootman said...
I joined a writing group. Once a month, I get together with three other people who love language, the written word, and the act of writing. We critique each other honestly, but we also support one another and really look forward to seeing the next installation of each others' stories. Knowing I have three intelligent people reading my words - and enjoying it! - always brings back the joy of writing anew.
- March 12, 2009 at 6:17 PM
- StrugglingToMakeIt said...
Music. And general craziness (i.e. spending time with my friends). I went to a Tokyo Police Club concert Tuesday that was insane and made me really happy. Ruby Coast and Ra Ra Riot were also there. Great times. Oh and law school...unfortunately, there's always something to do for that...
- March 12, 2009 at 6:25 PM
- Rachelle said...
1. Go for a run with my awesomely amazing yellow lab.
2. Go to Body Combat at the gym (every bit as cathartic as it sounds).
3. Watch American Idol.
4. Eat chocolate.
5. Do #4 and #5 at the same time, AFTER doing #1 or #2.
- March 12, 2009 at 6:29 PM
- B.J. Anderson said...
The same way I deal with rejection: Chocolate and a treadmill.
- March 12, 2009 at 6:40 PM
- Rick Daley said...
Attn: Mr. Fuller,
Greetings from Columbus! With all due respect, I'm not sure frustration and despair scratch the surface of your woes as a Bengals fan ;-(
At least we have the Buckeyes whooping on the Wolverines consistently, something all Ohioans can be proud of.
WORD VERIFICATION: braties. Brats, but baby ones.
- March 12, 2009 at 6:40 PM
- Ginger Simpson said...
I do the cheapest thing I can think of--I dream. I pretend I just got a letter from Nathan Bransford, telling me he loves my latest submission and would love to represent me. No, in fact he begs to represent me. The whole bended knee things, you know. Then I wake up and go back to working on my manuscript. When I really get desperate, I watch reality TV shows and try to figure out how they pick such idiots to be on them... or tune in to Jerry Springer and verify that I really am much more intelligent than part of the human race.
- March 12, 2009 at 6:42 PM
- Rick Daley said...
Anon @ 11:43 (and anyone else who is interested)
You can visit the Public Query Slushpile at:
I started it 1 week ago. So far 5 queries have been posted, and all 5 have received useful feedback.
Please visit, comment, and submit (if you dare).
- March 12, 2009 at 6:46 PM
- March 12, 2009 at 6:51 PM
- MaLanie said...
I love that I am not the only person that runs to Chocolate! The COCO Bean Rocks!
BTW, who would buy a book about Hilton's chihuahua? Seriously?
- March 12, 2009 at 6:52 PM
Music = maybe Phantom of the Opera - very loud so I can sing and dance with only my dog to watch. (Have his dog friends been giving me funny looks lately?) Music puts me in a different world.
A long walk or run in the hills with "Cappuccino" where everything is beautiful.
Friends who only talk about dog agility or running. No depressing talk allowed.
A green tea soy milk latte at Starbucks where I watch people and dream.
Then I go home and rewrite that damn query.
- March 12, 2009 at 6:58 PM
- Bane of Anubis said...
Rachel, I beg to differ w/ you on the Kings - dumping Clark, Jackson, and Jones was brilliant - overplayed and underperforming talent.
The Maloofs might not be Cuban-esque in their desire to win, but they're close - they'll do what they can to get a winning team, but they'll do it prudently (and not Snyder-esquelly) - hopefully they can draw some big name FAs to SAC-town at some point.
- March 12, 2009 at 7:08 PM
Well, let's just say I don't have time to be frustrated.......I was just lucky to finish my book; had I known that getting an agent would be so time consuming....well, who knows.....anyway, I work full time (English teacher), I have a three year old son and am about to have a daughter (due in June). So with each rejection that floats its way into my mailbox, I shrug and say to myself, "not this time.".....but I'm far from giving up.
- March 12, 2009 at 7:17 PM
- Courtney said...
Nathan-- your 49ers fandom has made my day.(I live in the big middle of Cowboys country...) And, seeing as it is midterms week, that is saying a lot!
As for distraction, I'm a full time English major and the manager/lead singer/guitarist of a semi-professional Bluegrass band. Did I mention my two day jobs?
Hah! you depressing rejection letters--just see if I have time to read you!
- March 12, 2009 at 7:18 PM
- Rachel said...
I respect your opinion, Bane of Anubis, but if I recall correctly...as soon as Peja and Bibby were back in the game that season, the team fell apart. However, when Clark, Jones, and Jackson were starting, they did awesome...
- March 12, 2009 at 7:19 PM
I love you for this post. It is so true. It is what you make of it, allow yourself to make of it.
and the fact that YOU can say this, where there is no escape from publishing.....golly jeepers.
- March 12, 2009 at 7:37 PM
- Beth Terrell said...
Snuggle with my papillon, Luca, a shining little being of goodness and light. He makes my world a brighter place.
- March 12, 2009 at 7:37 PM
talk about frus*tr*ting!
(LIONS fan here...)
(Lions and Tigers and Bears...
oh no!)
- March 12, 2009 at 7:48 PM
Hope your evening goes better than your day Nathan, and that you can find some time to relax, have fun, and take a break from the day's frustrations.
Thanks for the post. Reminders to relax and to put frustrations into perspective are always helpful.
- March 12, 2009 at 7:51 PM
Not kick-boxing. Boxing boxing.
Free cell.
Music (loud).
Wandering randomly in the city.
Calvin Trillin.
Elegant fiction.
Ice cream.
Law & Order reruns.
Practical joke and prank fantasies.
- March 12, 2009 at 7:56 PM
Okay, am a Michigan fan too, and with the new coach, .... (failure to launch)...
But here's what I do: (or did):
bought furniture until I had no space left in the house.
stopped opening my mail until it covered all the furniture
collected tables
collected chairs
imaginary people sitting in chairs
covered chairs with lively fabric
tried my hand at casseroles (warning: do not visit during such periods)
get drunk with my best friend on the tele
drive to New Mexico or the Grand Canyon or the ocean in North Carolina (actually these things really work well)
(note: until the credit card runs over the limit)
Play with my wonderful doggy.
(Life could be a dream, shaboom, shaboom...)
- March 12, 2009 at 7:58 PM
- Alps said...
Kissing baby cheeks, definitely.
Don't have baby cheeks to kiss? Sorry.
- March 12, 2009 at 8:23 PM
- Mira said...
Okay. Nathan I'm sorry you've had a frustrating day, but I really don't think it will top my frustrating week.
You remember I was searching for guatemalan orphans to serenade you? In order to entice you to stop playing hard to get and send me that signing contract?
Well, I'm giving up. I'm sorry, but finding guatemalan orphans is just downright frustrating.
Here's what I did. First, I tried the direct approach. I walked up to children on the street, gave them 20 bucks and asked them if they were guatemalan orphans. Well, evidentally mothers don't like that. I know they don't like that because my ears are still ringing from the screeching. And okay, fine. Grab your child and run, screaming at the top of your lungs for the police, but geez. At least give me my 20 bucks back.
So anyway, 300 bucks later, I finally gave up and did the next best thing. I posted an ad on craigslist asking for guatemalan orphans.
Well, it will probably surprise you to hear that this a bust too. I got all kinds of crazy responses. One guy was downright irritating. He kept saying: "Look. I'm an orphan. What does it matter if I'm from Mississpi rather than Guatemala?" I was very patient. I said: "Look. I can spell Guatemala. Nobody in the world can spell Mississipi." He didn't seem to get the logic. I can spell the rest of what he said, but I won't, if you see what I mean.
There's another good reason not to post an ad looking for orphans that will 'sing' for you. Did you know you can flag ads on craigslist? I do now.
I will say Homeland Security is very nice. I know Homeland Security is very nice because I spent 10 hours with them. They were very persuasive. Probably the most persuasive part was when they pointed out I don't own a microphone or camera, so you wouldn't even be able to hear the orphans sing.
But anyway, at least now you're on some list at Homeland Security. That's got to be a good thing, right, Nathan?
So, no guatemalan orphans. But I tried, Nathan, I really did. And think about it this way. This is the type of initiative and decisive action you would get to experience on a daily basis if we were in business together. Yes, I thought that would sweeten the pot. Yes, indeed.
Okey dokey. I'll look for the signing contract in the morning.
That ought to do it.
- March 12, 2009 at 8:50 PM
- Mira said...
Oh sorry. I didn't mean to disrupt the conversation. I've just had a tough week, and I figured Nathan was wondering where his orphans were.
Um, so to speak.
But please, don't let me interrupt.
- March 12, 2009 at 9:01 PM
- Marilyn Peake said...
New distraction:
Fantastic trailer for "Watchmen"
- March 12, 2009 at 9:42 PM
- dc said...
Love this series by the way. Thanks for the sunshine! :)
I disctract myself by reading great writing, cooking for my husband, and the occasional painting project.
- March 12, 2009 at 9:48 PM
- Stef Kramer said...
Read Deepak Chopra's Seven Spiritual Laws of Success. Or play Operation with my son.
- March 12, 2009 at 9:54 PM
- tammi said...
Cheering on my kiddo during their b-ball games. Go Celtics! Go Storm!
Oh, and watching Sawyer...um, I mean LOST...every Wednesday night at 8.
- March 12, 2009 at 11:12 PM
- Wanda B. Ontheshelves said...
Since there are already 135 posts, and I'm going to assume all the Detroit Lions fans have already had their say, so they won't notice my posting this, and even if they did, they would just skip over it...but, I can't resist posting this link, which mentions the Detroit Lions & Detroit...
I guess I'm just inspired because I started reading an essay a family member (GM employee) recently wrote, entitled: "THINKING DIFFERENTLY"
Go Detroit!
**the day's frustrations have melted away, imagine that**
- March 12, 2009 at 11:42 PM
- Wanda B. Ontheshelves said...
Hi Mira,
I am intrigued by your posts, self-referential ("conversation of one") though they may be - have you considered writing a diary-like novel, one entry per day for 3 months say, and try and get that published? You'd have to calculate how much you'd have to write to get up to 60,000 words, or whatever the threshold for such a novel would be - I am reminded of some comic monologues (don't ask me at this late hour to give names).
Just another writer,
Wanda B.
- March 12, 2009 at 11:45 PM
- Mira said...
Wanda, how encouraging. Thank you, that means alot to me.
I have a piece I'm working on that's exactly like that - I just need to find the right character. The first character I chose was too annoying - I don't think she could sustain a whole book. So, I need to find another one. Or maybe multiple characters? I don't know. I have the voice and the concept, but not the character(s) yet.
I do have to say, though, that this really isn't a one way conversation. Nathan is participating in his own way. If you close your eyes, you can hear it. Beyond the soft rustling of leaves, the swift whoosh of the wind, the lonely hooting of the blowfish, in the far background is the quiet scratch, scratch, scratch of a pen filling out a signing contract based on a halfway decent idea...for lots and lots and lots of money.
And that makes for a truly lovely conversation.
But back to you, Wanda, someone who is actually talking to me. Thanks, really, for the encouragment. I'd love to hear what you're working on, too.
- March 13, 2009 at 1:34 AM
- Bane of Anubis said...
Awesome must be a relative term - perhaps against the Clippers. I'm not saying they can't play, but nobody can win in the long run w/ players like that leading the way.
- March 13, 2009 at 2:14 AM
This was a great post. Thanks. Just getting away is a good thing.
- March 13, 2009 at 2:48 AM
- Eva Ulian said...
I became the Church photographer for the ceremony files archives: believe me there are a lot of ceremonies in the Church. Apart from that I am an impressionist painter, a translator, a researcher for an architect's studio and love ballroom dancing. Life is never boring, but even with all that going on, my only true ambition is to hit the NY Times top selling list with my book that is not yet published.
- March 13, 2009 at 6:07 AM
- Helen said...
ahh, Nathan you're the best; anxiety can ruin a writer, I think. Meals taste bad, sunny days go by unnoticed, partners suffer.
I like to go down to the beach and walk about with no shoes on. sand feels good, and the sound of waves crashing...ah bliss. Unfortunately, I don't live anywhere near the sea at the moment. for others who do, please go and take advantage of the free therapy :)
- March 13, 2009 at 6:49 AM
Going round Museums and searching for the oldest object. There's magic in the ancient days!
- March 13, 2009 at 6:53 AM
- ash-krafton said...
Bollywood. Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam is comfort food.
- March 13, 2009 at 9:05 AM
- m. Swallow said...
funny that you said "take up sunflower photography," because that's (sort of) exactly what i did recently. (photography, but not of sunflowers) i'm also deluding myself into thinking i might make a go as an art photographer.
but i've also just stepped away from writing for a bit...just resting the brain.
- March 13, 2009 at 9:16 AM
- Alexa said...
Another great post, I love the reminder that's it's all how you look at the world.
Best distractions are TV. Especially Gordan Ramsey shouting at people in Kitchen Nightmares. Makes me glad I'm not trying to become a chef! Surely no editor/reviewer can be as scary as Gordan!
- March 13, 2009 at 9:35 AM
- PharmLibrarian said...
I'm not real proud of this, but when writing/agent/publishing refuse to yield the foreground in my life, and it's freezing out (northern clime), the best mental chewing gum is a zombie movie. Not: I did not say 'good zombie movie' as their charm tends to be the opposite of good...
- March 13, 2009 at 9:56 AM
First, I light a candle. Then I pour a glass of wine. Finally, I clean house like crazy. When it is all finished, I write and write and write some more.
Actually, I use rejection, criticism, and "setbacks" as tools to learn. They help me to focus on refining my writing by giving me new perspectives. Without it, I would think that I was perfect when I am far from it.
- March 13, 2009 at 10:32 AM
Thank you for this post, Nathan. It is a nice reminder for those of us trying to eke out careers in the small press world.
- March 13, 2009 at 10:58 AM
- Chumplet - Sandra Cormier said...
I watch the Leafs slip into the Eastern Conference basement and thank my lucky stars I'm not a hockey player in Toronto.
- March 13, 2009 at 11:00 AM
- Alle Hall said...
I go hang out with my children -- and remember what is really important. Taking their worlds seriously always puts mine into persepctive.
- March 13, 2009 at 11:10 AM
- Marilyn Peake said...
You have a talent for writing. Just keep on writing!
- March 13, 2009 at 11:29 AM
- Melissa McInerney said...
Beth Terrell, I have a Papillon, too! Best dogs EVER. But some of my methods of vegging out are not, um, legal. Housecleaning is, though. I notice a lot of us ladies use housecleaning to clear out frustration. What does that say about us? I also listen to funk and rap and dance around the house. Thank goodness I live in a very private place.
- March 13, 2009 at 11:32 AM
- Teri said...
Misery loves company.
I usually talk with fellow writers and we can relate to the same feelings.
Otherwise, I usually get in a really tough tennis match.
Lots of power serves!
- March 13, 2009 at 11:41 AM
- Janny said...
This is a totally timely entry, because I have been awash in total frustration, ennui, and all those other erudite words that describe "I just don't care" sorts of frustration/burnout...
So yesterday, I plugged in college basketball streaming audio on my headphones at work, and watched B-Ball games when I got home. I LOVE March Madness (at all levels)...!
(oh, and...Go Blue!)
- March 13, 2009 at 11:44 AM
It's not just a talent for writing, you have an amazing imagination. I am impressed, also.
- March 13, 2009 at 11:45 AM
- Myra said...
Dance breaks. Lots and lots of dance breaks. And trying to keep my two-year-old from going naked.
Wait, that adds to the frustration.
Actually, I check out your blog. Thanks for the positive attitude and encouragement. It is truly appreciated!
"Those who are lifting the world upward and onward are those who encourage more than criticize." -
Elizabeth Harrison
- March 13, 2009 at 11:49 AM
- MzMannerz said...
Shopping. It inspires a lot. Procrastinating on cleaning out that garage? Buy some new bins. Etc.
I don't go overboard, but even the tinest new thing gets me up and going.
Yesterday, I reorganized my work papers after finding some funky designer file folders. Four dollars well spent.
- March 13, 2009 at 12:04 PM
- Marilyn Peake said...
I agree with Jo. Just my opinion: Rather than writing about real people like Nathan, I would recommend writing a completely fictional story and, while you're working on a longer work, start submitting short pieces to reputable magazines and online sites.
- March 13, 2009 at 1:17 PM
Marilyn has an excellant point. You should put that imagination and writing talent into short pieces in a magazine.
It also seems you have a vivid character. If you found her too annoying for MC use her as a best friend or even a classmate that is forever in trouble and needs to be rescued, kind of like a sidekick.
- March 13, 2009 at 2:08 PM
I tell my students they really have only two options: improve your writing or stop sending your work out.
- March 13, 2009 at 2:15 PM
- McMama said...
Oddly (given my poor rejection-management skills), I deal with frustration fairly well. I was a software engineer for 17 years before I quit to be a stay-at-home mom to my afterthought baby. Software engineering is all frustration, all the time. Your assumption going in is that whatever you just spent the last 48 hours coding will not work, and if it does, you view it with a great deal of suspicion.
So. Frustration-wise, I'm a pro.
Here are my strategies, in the approximate order in which I employ them:
Swear creatively while kicking whatever durable furnishing is closest. (Watch out for metal filing cabinets - they hurt.)
Determine that you will never do this (write code, write novels, whatever) again. Drink a cold liquid, which may or may not be alcoholic, depending on where your frustration management activity is taking place.
Clean out something, throwing away any articles which seem offensive (like earlier drafts of the same program or novel) with as much force as possible. You'll want a very large and sturdy trash container for this activity.
Do yoga for about ten minutes, and then revert to loud swearing.
Take a walk. Swear quietly so no one is tempted to dial 911 when they hear you coming. (If cops do arrive, stop swearing. I mean it. Stop right now.)
Read a book. A bad book. A book you know would have been better if you had written it yourself. (Software-wise, you crank up some Microsoft software. Because one monkey with one keyboard can write better software than what Microsoft makes you pay for.)
Return to your workstation refreshed and ready to try again.
- March 13, 2009 at 2:36 PM
- Wanda B. Ontheshelves said...
Hi Mira,
I have more I want to say about "annoying" characters, and you did ask what I was working on myself...just too swamped at this exact moment to reply. In another post, somewhere, totally off topic, I will respond!
Wanda B.
- March 13, 2009 at 2:59 PM
I go to church, where I am reminded that the whole publishing industry and my part in it are nothing more than a flea on the back of the cosmic dog, and God is that dog's master.
Verification word: flebeck. That's how God calls the fleas when He wants them.
- March 13, 2009 at 3:25 PM
- Dutch said...
I ride my horse.
But that's totally not fair, really to this post, Nathan. Because I ride when I'm sad. I ride when I'm happy. Heck I ride when I don't know what I am! - I have a wonderful horse.
- March 13, 2009 at 4:28 PM
- Lisa said...
Why would you want to distract from the frustration?
After all, it's frustration that often pushes past our comfort zone to try new and challenging experiences to help resolve the frustration.
Now if you're talking anger management, may I suggest the Godiva Plan. It works wonders for me.
- March 13, 2009 at 7:06 PM
- Jean said...
You. Are. Hilarious.
Now taking up sunflower photography.
- March 13, 2009 at 9:32 PM
- Mira said...
Marilyn, Wanda and Jo - you guys are so great. I hope you read this. I was at a training all day, so I didn't check in this morning. So, I couldn't thank you for the encouragement. But now, I can't thank you enough. It means alot to me.
I hope to return the favor someday!
Thank you.
Based on our conversaton, Wanda, I started re-working something today during lunch. I delegated the annoying main character to side-kick status. It might work.....
But don't worry. It won't interfere with my trying to get Nathan to represent me. Writing something is an awful lot of work. I'd like to avoid all that and just get the contract.
- March 13, 2009 at 10:09 PM
- Marilyn Peake said...
Hi, Mira,
I wish you all the best with your writing! Have fun! Glad you saw our posts about your writing talent.
- March 13, 2009 at 10:53 PM
- Mira said...
I'm glad I saw them, too, Marilyn. Thanks.
And I want to say congratulations to you on your writing breakthrough today. That's an amazing feeling when it starts flowing. I'm really happy for you!
That reminds me - I was going to get one of your books. I just got paid. I'm going to order one this weekend.
Then I can tell you what a great writer you are! :-)
- March 13, 2009 at 11:21 PM
- Marilyn Peake said...
You just made my day! Hope you enjoy the book. Thank you!
- March 13, 2009 at 11:42 PM
- debtink said...
Depends on the frustration!
If there's no graphic design work to do, I write. If I'm frustrated with what to write I read.
When I dont' know what to do with myself, I explore what's on demand tv or watch series DVDs. I'm on series 3 of HOUSE.
- March 14, 2009 at 1:21 PM
- Mira said...
Okay Marilyn, I ordered Fisherman's Son. Wow, it got good reviews on Amazon. I am really looking forward to reading it. I love YA fantasy.
It's so quiet here this weekend. Wanda, if you're reading this, and you feel like sharing your idea, I'll check the thread. You, too, Jo. Are you working on something?
- March 14, 2009 at 8:45 PM
- Marilyn Peake said...
Hi, Mira,
Thank you so much! I hope you enjoy the book. It's my first published novel, a story I truly enjoyed writing. I've been delighted with the reviews.
It has definitely been very quiet here this weekend.
- March 14, 2009 at 11:46 PM
- Gwenda, said...
Witty... Funny... Sexy... Tells it like it is... I think I'm in love... Eh, supposed to be commenting on the post. Oh yeah...
When I'm not promoting and obsessing about my newly released, 'Keeper of the Enchanted Pool' by Lucy Fox, on the Amazon charts or writing the sequel, I love to gyrate and lose myself to the sounds of Gary Moore. What do you mean, 'Never heard of him.' Don't tell me your as uninformed as Canadians in music! Ex Thin Lizzy, Irish rock/blues God. Look up, 'Still Got the Blues' and 'Parisian Walkways,' on YouTube. Out of this world guitar and with all that sexy base...
Then there's whiling away precious time on Facebook, playing Mafia Wars and catching up with long lost friends... Uh hum... and yes, family.
- March 15, 2009 at 12:08 PM
- Steven Till said...
My favorite methods of distraction are sports/outdoor recreation type things: hiking, going to the lake, basketball, football, golf, etc.
- March 16, 2009 at 12:13 PM
- Sarah said...
You could also start rooting for the Giants. It has the same effect. :)
I dislike that writing has really become big business (though I accept it wholly for what it is.) I suppose old souls like me long for days when a writer's words were pined over, dissected, and appreciated. I read the words of Sylvia Plath, and Whitman, and Frost, and fall in love with the words and pages all over again from the very moment I crack open the binding. Books now are mass produced, pressured by deadlines and contracts, and sometimes come across as cookie cutter. I am not envious of agents like you that need to determine who 'makes the grade.' More power to you, my friend.
I appreciate, by the way, that every time I read your blog posts, I can, to some degree, feel exactly what you're feeling. Kudos!
All the best,
- March 17, 2009 at 2:24 PM
I usually hit the gym and let all of my frustrations out on the equipment.
- June 29, 2011 at 1:52 PM


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Helen Mirren Finally Got a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame!
It's about time that Dame Helen Mirren got a star on the Hollywod Walk of Fame!
-Lucia Peters
I have no idea why it took this long, but guess what? The inimitable Dame Helen Mirren just got her very own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame! It's about time, no?
According to the L.A. Times, Helen, who won an Oscar for her performance in the 2006 film The Queen, received the 2,488th star on the Walk of Fame on Thursday. Located right in front of the Pig 'N Whistle restaurant, the actress' star stands right next to fellow Brit Colin Firth's. Said Leron Gubler, Hollywood Chamber of Commerce president and chief exec, "We've kind of made this a Brit location." Love!
"I couldn't be prouder and more happy that I'm actually going to finally lie next to Colin Firth, something I've been wanting to do for a very long time," Helen joked during the star's unveiling. "Sorry darling," she told hubby Taylor Hackford. "I do love you very much, but, you know…" There are apparently no hard feelings, though, as evinced by this photo shot during the event:
Read Guess Where JLo Keeps Her Scandalous Versace Dress?
Helen continued, "This is such, honestly, the most spectacular day for me. I'm so very, very proud to be henceforth walked upon, have fries dropped upon, maybe even be peed upon by feature generations of tourists, Angelenos, and their dogs. But please, please, no chewing gum." That's the way it's done!
We're also kind of in love with Dame Helen's French blue ensemble—especially the silver lizard pin on her lapel! Here's how to get the look:
kate spade new York 'arie' sheath dress ($358, shop.nordstrom.com), Calvin Klein belted blazer ($129, macys.com), Tasha 'Critters' alligator brooch ($58, shop.nordstrom.com), ALLIANCE fawn patent peep-toe pump ($99.95, on sale for $39.99, stevemadden.com).
Lucia Peters is BettyConfidential's associate editor.

subset: commoncrawl


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Courses: Current and Upcoming
This section includes course listings for the courses offered in the Department of Theatre Arts for the current and next semester. More detailed descriptions can be found in the catalog based on the course numbers and titles.
Undergraduate Catalog (2016-17)
Theatre Arts Catalog Copy (2016-17)
Previous versions
Undergraduate Catalog (2015-16)
Undergraduate Catalog (2014-2015)
Undergraduate Catalog (2013-2014)
Undergraduate Catalog (2012 revision)
Undergraduate Catalogs (pre 2012 revision)
Students should refer to HomerConnect for more specific information about each class such as timings and instructors. Additional information about individual courses may be obtained from the instructor of a particular course.


text:
as it needs a giant amount of visible conditions to turn it into something useful.
recently, 'Black came up with a suggestion to make life a lot easier for skinners.
so, we got to work and added two new features to the script:
1) you can now run the script when entering the library.
and the script will return the info for the selected listitem.
(see included readme for details)
2) the script will provide a TV Guide window.
there's no need to construct your own tv guide with hundreds of visible conditions anymore.
you can simply use the one provided by the script and/or skin it to match the look and feel of your skin.
for backwards compatibility, all the old infolabels (NextAired.%d.Foo) have been left intact,
but i'd like to remove them in time.
if there's any questions or if you think we've missed something, feel free...
script.tv.show.next.aired v4.0.1 is now available in the pre-eden addon repo


text:
Bookmark this site
BEIJING, China -- Beijing subway riders will soon be able to earn credits on their commuter passes by depositing their empty beverage bottles into reverse vending machines (RVMs) located in city train stations.
Beijing Incom Resources Recovery Co. Ltd., a large recycler, plans to install and operate more than 100 recycle-to-ride devices. An RVM will reward donors with 5 fen to 1 jiao (about 0.8¢ to 1.6¢) on their commuter passes for each PET bottle they insert into the machine. The machine then crushes and sorts the containers according to color and type.
The company told local news outlets that it hopes to later expand the RVMs to other subway stations, bus stops and residential areas.
Incom currently processes 50,000 tons of bottles a year, most of which it buys from informal collectors. With the recycling machines, it hopes to collect bottles directly from the public. The company also plans to generate revenue from government subsidies and advertising on the machines' touchscreen displays.


text:
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text:
"There is not a day or night, nay not an hour, but I wish to fold you to my heart."
"It seems to me, to myself, that no man was ever before to any woman what you are to me."
"The Old Year is passing. … It found me careless of the here & the [hereafter]—it leaves me with faith in the one & hope for the [other. It] found [me. my ] heart scorched, bitter, barren, loveless—& leaves it filled with softening, humanizing, elevating love for the dearest girl on earth, Livy—& I, the homeless then, have on this last day of the [die dying] year, a home that is [pre priceless], a refuge from all the cares & ills of life, in that warm heart of yours, & am supremely happy! And so with grateful benediction I give [Godspeed] to this good Old Year that is passing away. If I forget all else it has done for me I shall still remember that it gave me your love, Livy, ..."
"… something whispers to me—perhaps it is the wafted prayer of my little Edgar, that I shall return to my loved ones unharmed. If I do not my dear Sarah, never forget how much I love you, and when my last breath escapes me on the battle field, it will whisper your name. ... How gladly would I wash out with my tears every little spot upon your happiness ..."
"I still believe that my sweetheart is the ideal woman…"


text:
Abu Jahl and His Warriors
Unknown artist, Turkish, Istanbul
Abu Jahl and His Warriors, ca. 1594-95
Opaque watercolor, ink, and gold on paper
Sheet: 37.5 x 26.7 cm (14 3/4 x 10 1/2 inches)
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. John D. Slocum 85.106
Commissioned by Ottoman Sultan Murad III (reign 1574—1595), the illustrated manuscript of the Siyar-i Nabi relates the life story of the Islamic Prophet Muhammad (ca. 570—632) translated into Turkish by Mustafa ibn Yusuf ibn 'Umar-al-Maulavi al-Arzan al-Rumi (known as Darir, 'the Blind Man') between 1377 and 1388. The manuscript is the first illustrated version of Darir's text and includes the largest known cycle of Islamic religious painting. This page depicts Abu Jahl (d. 624), a Meccan aristocrat who refused to convert to Islam and became one of Muhammad's archenemies. The bold color and simple forms are characteristic of paintings from this manuscript. Because the 814 miniatures were completed in less than two years, it has been assumed that the speed of execution influenced their innovative style.


text:
A fire caused an estimated $30,000 damage to a Grand Terrace home Wednesday night.
San Bernardino County, Colton and Loma Linda firefighters came to the 22700 block of Finch Street at 9:50 p.m. after receiving a report of a house filled with smoke, fire officials said.
Firefighters entered the residence and found a fire in a bedroom. They extinguished the blaze before it spread to the rest of the house.
Investigators say clothing and other items piled onto overloaded extension cords and electrical wires likely sparked the fire.
There were no reported injuries.
Reach Melissa via email or call her at 909-386-3878.
Get the latest crime and public safety news on Twitter @IECrime.


text:
Bexar Home Values Rise, Bucking National Trend
The old joke is that real estate is all about location, location, and location, and it turns out that in this decade, San Antonio is the right location to own a home.
1200 WOAI news reports that San Antonio home values jumped $6,000 since the Great Recession began in 2009.
"It's one of only three of the fifty largest counties in the country to experience a significant housing value gain," said Ellen Baker Wilson, a statistician with the U.S. Bureau of the Census, which released the report.
In fact, the Census Bureau says home values have fallen in 39 of the fifty biggest metro areas in the country, with California, and Florida, which experienced overheated housing prices during the housing boom of the last decade, experiencing the largest declines.
Four of the ten metro areas where median home values actually increased were in Texas.
"Because we say many many declines, and Bexar County is one of the few increases," she said.
Nationwide, home prices peaked in the spring of 2007 and bottomed out in early 2011, Housing nationwide began a sustained recovery at the start of 2012.
The Census Bureau says one of the reasons for the boom in housing prices locally is that metro San Antonio's home prices are among the lowest in the country, with the median price of a home in the county at about $123,000.
Wilson says Bexar and Travis Counties say housing value increases, but those increases were not spread evenly across the state.
"Bexar had an increase of $6,000 while Dallas County decreased by $2600 and Harris County (Houston) decreased by $2700," she said.
The report also shows that Americans in their twenties are buying homes at the lowest rate since home ownership became a middle class activity in the 1950s. The report says young people today are overburdened by expensive student loans and toiling in low wage, part time jobs. Some have begun to refer to people in their twenties as 'Generation Wait.'


text:
Saw the cagewarriors gloves in there!
Saw the cagewarriors gloves in there!
www.chimpmedia.co.uk - Mixed Martial Arts Filming & Website Design
Good to see some guys that have fought on CW in the video
I have to say, IMO, the quality and ability of the middle eastern fighters has come on a long way since I first had the privilege of working on CW's 2nd event in Amman 18 months ago.
Mohammed "Felix" Ali is the big star out there at the moment, but they do have some young guys that could also be very big names if they continue in the same vein.
The fans are also very passionate and the support for their fighters is intense.
Cage Warriors has done a great job in giving the sport much exposure in the Middle East - I personally hope it continues.
REFEREE with MMA Officials
UFC Iran is legendary on the UG.
Sherdog.com - The number one MMA site on the web today!


text:
You know, back in my day all we had were old text books and a black chalk board! Wish we had iPads back in the days in my high school years! c/o 2007!
Wow. CT schools can't even afford to keep teachers employed. I bet 25% of these kids will break them too.
Actually a School in my County announced this 2 months ago Danville, In.
Yes because schools don't have site filters on their wifi/router
As for the iPad expense to the tax payers -- I'm all for it and whatnot, but shouldn't we be concentrating on correcting the pay scale for teachers first? Well, unless we plan on replacing them with iPads too...
Btw, I visited Tupelo quite often. Saw many concerts at Bancorp South Center, you had the closest mall to Columbus, and the tattoo shop on Main was pretty popular with the people on base (though I only went to Coon in West Point).


text:
Full-Rim Eyeglasses for Men
- of FRAMES
Full-Rim Eyeglasses for Men
If you're searching for a pair of eyeglasses that deliver a sophisticated look, classic lines, and a comfortable field of view, consider full-rim eyeglasses for men. These stylish frames are available in a variety of finishes and frame shapes, and will complement the features of nearly all facial types. While full rim glasses are generally considered sleek and attractive, they are also incredibly durable.
At Zenni Optical, we've designed an online glasses store that offers hundreds of full rim eyeglasses for men - all at prices that are unbelievably low! We firmly believe that a pair of full rim glasses shouldn't retail for one hundred times more than they cost to make. For this reason alone, you'll find that our full rim glasses for men start at under $7 - with our most elegant designs selling for little more than you'd pay for a glasses case at a "mall" eyeglasses store. You can order several pairs for the price of one pair of men's full rim glasses from many of our brick and mortar competitors.
Say goodbye to your old, broken frames and usher in a new you with a pair of sleek and attractive full rim eyeglasses. With unbelievably low prices and quick shipping options, you'll be able to enjoy your new frames in no time. Zenni Optical - your source for affordable and stylish eyewear!


text:
It's a pattern seemingly as old as education itself: Students do the work and teachers grade it.
At the University of Utah and schools throughout the country, though, students turn the tables briefly by evaluating their courses and professors, giving feedback that can influence the trajectory of a career.
But a report presented at the U.'s Academic Senate this week calls into question whether those evaluations are truly an indicator of good teaching. It found most students 58 percent mark the instructor forms with the same answer from top to bottom, a practice that, according to the report, "casts substantial doubt on the character of student rankings."
Analysis of the results also raises the concern that students might slam classes that "are more difficult, require better preparation or take students out of their comfort zone," it said.
The U.'s Academic Senate decided Monday to keep discussing the student evaluation system, which seems to satisfy no one as is: While professors worry the evaluations reward popularity rather than rigor, students say they feel like the scores and sometimes their voices aren't taken seriously.
"Some students block vote because they already feel like they don't matter," said Wychester Whetten, a 21-year-old senior chemical engineering major.
Overall, the ratings are very high 93 percent of block ratings are 5s or 6s on a 6-point scale, said author and communication professor James Anderson. But that means "very small differences become very important," said Anderson, who reviewed more than 76,000 evaluations submitted in 2009 and 2010.
Those dips tend to occur more often for foreign male graduate student teaching assistants, as well as women in traditionally male-dominated fields, or men in fields often populated by women, Anderson said. Courses in science, diversity or quantitative studies also scored low.
That's a concern for physics professor David Ailion.
"You inevitably invite lower scores because the class is too hard," he said. "If you're a young professor going up for tenure, it can be a damaging thing."
But students say it's unfair to assume they ding a professor only because the coursework is challenging.
"If you grade a professor low, they might think it's because you just didn't do the work," rather than legitimate criticism, said Taylor Thompson, a 22-year-old senior biology and environment major.
The student evaluations matter because a third of U. professors' performance reviews are based on how well they teach, and some departments rely on the evaluations for 90 percent of that section, potentially affecting raises, promotions and tenure.
But over-reliance on the evaluations is a mistake, Anderson said. "As long as we claim we are measuring instructor competency, these measures are invalid. Period," he said.
The U. should keep doing student evaluation surveys, he said, but they should be seen as user-experience or opinion surveys rather than a reliable gauge of skill.
Students said they've noticed the impact of the evaluations varies widely from one department to the next. Whetten, for example, said she had a professor whose class markedly improved after a batch of bad reviews.
"He took the concerns and asked other professors how he could do better," she said, making lessons clearer and grading more consistently.
Student evaluations aren't a new idea, but they came into wider use at the U., and around the country, in the 1970s, according to Anderson. Their profile has gone up in recent years with the rise of websites such as ratemyprofessors.com.
At the U., students can get their grades early in exchange for filling out the evaluations online, a practice Anderson writes may be "too sweet a carrot."
Instead, he recommended students be allowed to opt out, the data be studied more often to evaluate them and that students and teachers start talking about the reports.
"We're still stuck on doing the same old things the same old way," he said. "Let's think outside the box."
Twitter: @lwhitehurst


text:
Several stars making waves on the country charts
Brett Eldredge has his first top ten hit. Billboard.com says the country star's latest single "Don't Ya" is now occupying the number eight spot on the Hot Country Songs list, and has climbed to number nine on the Country Digital Songs chart with 50,000 downloads sold in the tracking week. "Don't Ya" is just missing the top ten on the Country Airplay chart, falling in at number eleven. Brett's previous best on the chart came in 2011 with "Raymond," which peaked on the Country Songs chart at number 23.
The number 23 spot is also significant to the Eli Young Band. The group is seeing their best chart debut with "Drunk Last Night," which is entering the Country Songs list at number 23. The track is starting its run on the Country Digital Songs chart at number seven with sales of 53,000.
Florida Georgia Line continues its rule over the Country Songs and Country Digital charts with "Cruise." The duo's hit is spending its 18th nonconsecutive week atop the Country Songs list, and is logging its 19th week at number one on the digital chart.
Luke Bryan is the new leader on the Country Airplay list. His latest, "Crash My Party," has captured the top spot in just 12 weeks to become his fastest trip yet to number one.
Photo Credit Getty Images


text:
Topic: alternative therapies to help combat side effects of gemzar - and more
My partner has just come to the end of his first seven weeks of chemo treatment with gemzar. When he was diagnosed over two months ago with stage 4 cholangio (metasticised to liver, adrenal gland and lymph nodes)we consulted two naturopaths with different approaches. It is always advisable to work in conjunction with a qualified alternative therapist, but we wanted to share with you the advice he's been given so far in case it can help any of you:
One naturopath sent blood and urine samples (triad profile) to a clinic in Melbourne, Australia for analysis which were incredibly thorough and came back telling us whether he had anything from food allergies to nutrient deficiencies. In his case abnormalities in gut flora were found so there was a concern that he may not be absorbing from food the vitamins he requires. As a result he has started a program of pre and pro biotics along with methyl factors containing folate and b vitamins only to be taken during his non chemo weeks. During the weeks he IS on chemo he currently takes livton, adrenoplex, AIR Granules (chinese herbal tea), coriolus-grifola drops (60 per day in juice), 2,000 mg fish oils, a daily juice containing carrot, beetroot, ginger, apple and flax oil, a daily smoothie containing banana, soy milk, natural yoghurt, berries and occassionally a whey protein supplement, as well as additional pain killers and anti nausea drugs (details in previous blog entry) from the hospital. He is also following a vigorous nutritional program following guidelines based on the Patrick Quillen book, and regular exercise and positive visualisation techniques.
Of course we are all individuals and what works for one of us may not be as effective for another, but we just hope that this might provide useful advice for someone out there.
All the very best to you all.


text:
Kanye West Eyeing September Release For 'Yeezus' Follow-up
Listen to Kanye West Radio on iHeartRadio
Kanye West is eyeing a fall release for the follow-up to 2013's Yeezus. In an interview with GQ magazine, Kanye says his seventh album will "most likely" arrive in September.
Apparently, he had hoped to unleash the project in June, but got caught up working on his upcoming clothing line with Adidas, as well as spending time with his daughter, North.
Another reason the project has taken a little longer than expected is that he recently created a song that is "so good" that the rest of the album "has to be balanced against it." While the album was filled with "beautiful" tracks, he describes his standout song as more of a club banger.
Ahead of the album's release, he plans to release a single called "All Day."
Photo: Getty Images


text:
Sony has introduced an Internet TV Blu-ray Disc player, the NSZ-GT1, along with its new connected TV line.
The Sony Internet TV Blu-ray Disc player with built-in Google TV allows users to enjoy Google TV on their existing HDTV with features of Dual View for web surfing and TV watching, upgradeable Google TV platform, RF QWERTY keypad remote with integrated optical mouse, built-in Wi-Fi and four HDMI inputs and four USB inputs.
Sony's Internet TV Blu-ray Disc player will be available for purchase Sony Style on October 16 for US$399.99
- Wireless broadband developments in Southeast Asia markets
As of 2013, the 10 ASEAN nations had a total of over 700 million mobile subscriptions, with the CAGR from 2003-2013 reaching 24%. This Digitimes Research Special Report analyzes the various mobile broadband markets in ASEAN and looks at the respective trends in 4G LTE development for those markets.
- 2015 global tablet demand forecast
This Digitimes Research Special Report provides a 2015 forecast for the global tablet market and analyzes the strategies of key market players such as Google, Apple, Intel, and Microsoft.
- 2015 China smartphone panel trend forecast
This Digitimes Research Special Report analyzes the strategies of key China-based major panel makers BOE, Tianma and IVO for attacking the different market segments through technology and pricing, and their relationship to local vendors Huawei, Lenovo, ZTE, Xiaomi and Coolpad.


text:
GSA Reports Telework Best Practices
October 23, 2001
Contact: Viki Reath (202) 501-1231
WASHINGTON, D.C.-- Tailoring telework programs to individual organizations, rather than adopting a one-size-fits-all philosophy, is a good telework practice, according to Expert Consensus on Recommended Practices for Telework Program Success, a new U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) report released today.
"While experts recommend tailoring programs to individual organizations, they also suggest that, if possible, program developers follow such essential practices such as top-level support and coordination, training, clear and measurable program goals, performance appraisal fairness and technological support," said the report's author, Wendell Joice, GSA's Governmentwide Telework Team Leader and a co-founder of the Federal telework program.
Federal telework programs, which have evolved over the past 10 years, enable employees to work regularly at home and at other alternate worksites that reduce commuting time or distance.
Mr. Joice wrote the report in conjunction with an International Telework Association & Council blue ribbon panel and 62 experts from government and industry. It is available under the Publications heading at http://www.gsa.gov/telework.


text:
Index Dopp Kit
Shop Online - Inventory Search
Select your size and colour to buy direct from Arc'teryx or from authorized online dealers.
Check online dealer inventory
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This item is out of stock at Arc'teryx BUT it is available to buy from our online dealers.
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Learn More About This Product
Technical outdoor functionality, comfort and durability brought to everyday designs.
Full Feature List
- Packs up small for easy travel storage
- Pliable—can be folded or rolled up easily
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Clear panelled main compartment sized for 100ml (3.4 oz) travel containers
- Mesh compartment pocket fits toothbrush or razor
- Rear pocket for smaller items
- Top grab handle with quick release buckle
- N210p type 6 nylon plain weave
- Surface clean only.


text:
To try the thousands of add-ons available here, download Mozilla Firefox, a fast, free way to surf the Web!Close
Welcome to Firefox Add-ons.
Choose from thousands of extra features and styles to make Firefox your own.Close
ReloadEvery 45.0.0 Requires Restart
by Jaap Haitsma
Reloads web pages every so many seconds or minutes. The function is accessible via the context menu (menu you get when you right click on a web page) or via tab context menu (right click on the tab)
This add-on is not compatible with your version of Firefox because of the following:
About this Add-on
Randomize feature: if you enable Randomize and have reload time set to 10s it will randomly take somewhere between 5 to 15 seconds
Keywords: auto refresh, auto reload
Version Information
Version 45.0.0
- Source code released under Mozilla Public License Version 1.1
- What's this?
This add-on is not compatible with your version of Firefox because of the following:


text:
Another big miss for the US team
(NEWSER) – Sandro Viletta of Switzerland stunned the favorites and won the Olympic super-combined title today in a spring-like race in which the temperature soared to 55 degrees. Viletta finished in a two-run combined time of 2 minutes, 45.20 seconds. Ivica Kostelic of Croatia took the silver medal in this event for the third consecutive Olympics, 0.34 behind, and Christof Innerhofer of Italy took bronze, 0.47 behind, to add to his silver from downhill.
Read the full story on Newser.com


text:
Jill Weldum, MA, LMFT, CCPT
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Play
528 Oak St., Syracuse, New York 13203
As a certified child centered play therapist, I am trained and enjoy working with children ages 3 and up. Using play therapy for children is like talk therapy for adults.. it is the best way children have to communicate their struggles and work through their feelings. A critical part of working with children is keeping communication going with you, the parent. Part of my treatment approach includes regularly scheduled consultations with you. I have designated play therapy space at my Syracuse and Rome offices, and look forward to talking with you about your child.
Theressa McMorris, MS, LMFT
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
526 Oak Street, Office A, Syracuse, New York 13203
When children are hurting, they need someone who can speak their language. At all different developmental levels, children come with a unique way to express themselves that is unlike adults. They need to be met where they are at and cared for. Harvest House loves working with children. They have a voice and we would like to listen.
Kevin Fleming Ph.D.
Coach/Change Agent/Consultant
Syracuse, New York 13210
Many times, child therapists overdo the family system in their quest to seek effective solutions for emotional, learning or behavioral concerns with young children. And many times doctors overpathologize issues that shouldn't be medicated necessarily. This leaves parents wondering what is the best route for their child? Introducing brainwave optimization technology. A fast, effective, natural, and less expensive way to allow your child's brain to make the optimizing changes it desires to make---on its own! Without any external force, opinion, medication, diagnostic, etc. Contact email@example.com or 877-606-6161.


text:
Enduring Quality
Doing what is right, not what is popular. That is one of the values our organization has stuck with from the beginning, more than 100 years ago. Our business and community partners share these values, and we hope that by watching this short video, you will be inspired by these same sustaining values.
Continue Reading
Mariner is the chairman and chief executive officer of UMB Financial Corporation and UMB Bank, n.a. He joined UMB in 1997. Mr. Kemper is active in both civic and philanthropic endeavors. One of the causes he is most passionate about is the arts. He currently serves as a trustee and executive committee member for the Denver Art Museum and is a past board member for The Arts Council of Metropolitan Kansas City.


text:
Your browser does not support iframes.
If you were to insist that what makes the Bible a special book is not its outward appearance - whether it's bound in leather or cloth, colored bright pink or plain brown - but what's inside - its message, meaning, and purpose - I would heartily agree.
But then again, the very presence of the Good Book can not only speak to the soul, it can even save a life.
John Lennon and Paul McCartney couldn't have known the danger in the words they wrote with the Beatles first major hit, "I Want to Hold Your Hand."
"And please say to me, you'll let me hold your hand."
In case you haven't heard, holding and shaking hands can be hazardous to your health.
It's hard to believe it's been a year. And what a year it's been.
I will admit it; I'm one of those who thought it wouldn't happen. We would never have enough money. People wouldn't want higher taxes to pay for it. But here we are, and it's all paid for.
The new Taylor County Public Library opened its doors last March, after years and years of planning, saving and hoping.
And on Tuesday, March 18, library staff members will host a party to celebrate the first birthday in their new building.
Entertainment isn't hard to find in most places these days, and I've lived in a few places that had more than their share. But for me, Campbellsville does it as good as any smaller community I've ever lived or worked in, hands down.
On Feb. 4, the Kentucky Senate passed a bill that would allow heavier semi-trailer trucks hauling poultry, livestock and agricultural products to travel on all state and local roads, raising the maximum weight from 80,000 pounds to 88,000 pounds.
The curtain has fallen on the games of the 22nd winter Olympiad. The host country, Russia, was the overall winner with 33 total medals, while the United States finished with 28 total medals. But in my opinion, we, the viewers, also came away with a win because we were given a couple of weeks of entertainment like no other on TV.
As I sat in McDonald's last week, in one of the seemingly rare moments I have that's not in full-on rush mode, I noticed an old couple eating lunch with what was presumably their grandson at the next table down from me.
The kid was maybe 8 or 9 years old, undoubtedly off from yet another day of school.
This is where I would normally describe him in greater detail, but the only way I would have been of any help in that department was if he had committed a crime and was in a lineup.
I've been told that it ended with the Reagan administration. It could have been cabin fever or just my horrible habit of leaving clothes in the dryer to re-wrinkle, but this week, I ironed my clothes. And I'm feeling much better because of it.
Cities and counties, small and large, across Kentucky have big dreams for their communities - ideas that are transformative and can have lasting impact for generations.
Bardstown wants to build a YMCA to help keep its residents healthy. Eastern Kentucky communities dream of transforming the region into a destination attracting hunters, anglers, campers and adventure tourists. Louisville hopes to build a 100-mile hiking and biking path across the city - the type of amenity that attracts young people and entrepreneurs who start businesses and grow the state's economy.
As a teenager, I never asked for the opportunity. I sure hope others do and are quick to take advantage of it.
I recently spent a day with our legislators in Frankfort. I learned a lot and can certainly appreciate the hard work that's put into making new laws to help protect Kentucky residents.
Copyright © 2017
The Central Kentucky News-Journal is your source for local news, sports, events, and information in Campbellsville, KY and the surrounding area.


text:
Washington : Government Printing Office
|Chap. 662
|Umatilla Indian Reservation, Oreg. Restoration of certain lands to tribal ownership.
|Chap. 662
|Proviso. Existing valid rights.
|Sec. 2
|Consolidations through purchase, exchange, or relinquishment.
|Sec. 2
|Basis of exchanges.
|Sec. 2
|Restricted allotments included.
|Sec. 3
|Title to be taken in name of United States.
|Sec. 4
|Funds available for expenses.
|Sec. 4
|48 Stat. 985.
Page 45
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That the Secretary of the Interior be, and he is hereby, authorized in his discretion to restore to tribal ownership the undisposed of surplus lands of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, Oregon, heretofore opened to entry or other form of disposal under the public-land laws: Provided, That restoration shall be subject to any existing valid rights.
For the purpose of effecting land consolidations between Indians and non-Indians within the reservation, the Secretary of the Interior is hereby authorized, under such rules and regulations as he may prescribe, to acquire through purchase, exchange, or relinquishment, any interest in lands, water rights, or surface rights to lands within said reservation. Exchanges of lands hereunder shall be made on the basis of equal value and the value of improvements on lands to be relinquished to the Indians or by Indians to non-Indians shall be given due consideration and allowance made therefor in the valuation of lieu lands. This section shall apply to tribal, trust, or otherwise restricted Indian allotments whether the allottee be living or deceased.
Title to lands or any interest therein acquired pursuant to this Act for Indian use shall be taken in the name of the United States of America in trust for the tribe or individual Indian for which acquired.
For the purpose of carrying into effect the land-purchase provision of this Act, the Secretary of the Interior is hereby authorized to use so much as may be necessary of any funds heretofore or hereafter appropriated pursuant to section 5 of the Act of June 18, 1934 (48 Stat. 984).
Approved, August 10, 1939.


text: BlackRock, Inc. today announced that it released performance data for its exchange-listed closed-end funds, as well as certain data for its closed-end municipal funds, for March 2010. BlackRock also announced that going forward, this information will be updated on a monthly basis on its website in the "Closed-End Funds" section of www.blackrock.com. Investors and others are advised to periodically check the website for updated performance information and other information about the BlackRock closed-end funds. About BlackRock BlackRock is a leader in investment management, risk management and advisory services for institutional and retail clients worldwide. At March 31, 2010, BlackRock's AUM was $3.364 trillion. BlackRock offers products that span the risk spectrum to meet clients' needs, including active, enhanced and index strategies across markets and asset classes. Products are offered in a variety of structures including separate accounts, mutual funds, iShares ® (exchange traded funds), and other pooled investment vehicles. BlackRock also offers risk management, advisory and enterprise investment system services to a broad base of institutional investors through BlackRock Solutions ®. Headquartered in New York City, as of March 31, 2010, the firm has approximately 8,500 employees in 24 countries and a major presence in key global markets, including North and South America, Europe, Asia, Australia and the Middle East and Africa. For additional information, please visit the firm's website at www.blackrock.com.


text:
More than five years ago, I received a call from Mike Caraway, Executive Vice President of SouthEastern Equipment Dealers Association, inquiring if I would be interested in serving on the NAE DA board as the representative from our association. I said yes. And more than three years ago, I received a call asking if I wanted to move through the officer chairs of NAE DA, which would ultimately result in me serving as the chairman of the board. Once again, I said yes.
Read the article here.