Tao Girl in Training...

NEW SITE IS LIVE

2009-02-06T11:04:00.000-08:00

Ok so the new Thea site is live and so is the new SYBD site...It's scaled-right-down, and will take a while to build-back-up, but all is right with the world.

I won't be updating the blogger blogs much so you really need to find me at the other two (above) sites. Ok? Ok!

NEW SITE & NEW RADIO SHOW

2009-01-25T15:19:00.000-08:00

GOOD NEWS

I've a new blog live in action now - at www.theanewcomb.co.uk. There you'll see that I am poised to return to Scotland's airwaves soon! I'll be spreading the love of the Late Night variety and I'm looking for your input - what's your favorite love song of all time? Can you pick just one? Please tell me. Soon! I'm taking a poll!

Happy Burns Night to all my Scottish chums!

IT'S A MIRACLE

2009-01-16T02:29:00.001-08:00

DREAM / REALITY

So I had a dream this morning that I was in a plane (or helicopter) - I don't really know which as I was "inside" the whole time. I recall talking about the munchskin's birthday (which, in the dream, was coming up),...with a girlfriend of mine (no idea who she was but we were close)...and we took a nose dive into the water.

I knew we were "going down" and I grabbed the hand of my good friend I loved her and then expecting the impact, the vessel literally disappeared, we hit the water and,...we were fine.

Colour us surprised to say the least - that we'd cheated death as it were.

So imagine my further surprise when I log on to chat to my real good friend N - when I got up this morning - told her of my dream and then she asks if I've seen the news, which I hadn't.

Switched on the news and low and behold a plane crashed into the Hudson and everyone survives. How odd. How connected we all are.

MIRACLE ON THE HUDSON

The news footage on CNN is incredibly amazing. Seeing the footage of the passengers on the wings is actually heart-warming. 81 TONNES gliding onto the Hudson...From the moment I switched on the TV I could see the "made for TV" movie of this. Mark my words, within six months - this will be a "made for television movie". Some researcher is working on that right now...

KISS ME...

2009-01-15T12:05:00.000-08:00

...Remember that song from Stephen Tin Tin Duffy?? Och, nevermind.

Anyway, I've been stuck on the sofa all day with a sore head (not a migraine - more a dull pain) that's lasted for many days now,...but tonight a little bit of relief comes from Drew Barrymore's "Never Been Kissed" - and especially the eye candy in the shame of one, mister Michael Vartan. *rroww rroowww*

FROST NIXON

Yesterday morning, I saw a press show for the new film FROST NIXON which was fantastic. It was so compelling and well-acted. I liked it way better than SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE and BEDTIME STORIES which I saw last Friday. In the near future, I hope to catch THE WRESTLER, Sean Penn's MILK and Will Smith's SEVEN POUNDS (here's the trailer on the Tube of the You variety).

THE ETERNAL HEADACHE

I went to bed at 11pm last night (which is very early for me) and didn't get out of bed for twelve hours and yet still I don't feel great. All my chums have persuaded me to call the doctors tomorrow (or maybe I should wait until Monday). I'll see how I feel. It totally bites being plagued by colds, headaches, or flu or what have you but I am trying to find the positives (like I attempt to do in every situation):

1) I've not spent a penny today. That's always a +.
2) My appetite is low - so maybe I'll lose a pound or two (always a +)
3) Getting some research / work done on the sofa...
4) Wrapped up on a cosy knitted blanket - I am not forced to face the baltic elements!
5) I don't feel guilty sitting and watching TV (Joan of Arcadia, Jason Ritter's new sitcom, The Class, a variety of films etc)
6) Last night, I finally managed to watch a DVD my dad sent me some time last Autumn!
7) And best of all, I've managed to catch up on a ton of threads on soyouvebeendumped.com (I've been really falling behind for the past few months!)
8) I've been updating my many blogs - and researching other blogging platforms with a view to move mine...

Well back to this classic high school film...and of course Mr Vartan! :)

The thing about this film is that it reminds me how challenging school could be, and how deep down, we're all just older versions of our high school selves...No matter how much we change, how successful we become, how far from home we move, there's a part of us that is still that nerd, geek, jock, brain, burn-out etc - that we primarily were in our high school days.

Well that's my theory anyway. Take it or leave it. I am off to see if Ice Cream cures headaches...Wish me luck ;)

PROSPERITY AND A CALL FOR REDESIGN OF SYBD

2009-01-13T07:42:00.001-08:00

MONEY CHALLENGES...?

I came across a good article today about PROSPERITY written by Steve Nobel. It's called 14 Ideas to Create Prosperity. Some really great points made in his article, I think you'll agree...

TIME PASSES...

2009-01-11T12:07:00.000-08:00

Well in the blink of an eye another week has passed. I am sat on my living room floor where I've been for what seems like hours looking through blogger templates. I want a new "look and feel" for my main blogs that I run....I didn't realise I had so many (like half a dozen) but some are now obsolete. The main ones needing sorted are the soyouvebeendumped.com blog, this one and the Stop Bigamy one too.

It's been a challenging month - January - puntuated with some pretty high highs and pretty low lows. I've been seeing a lot of movies, knitting, spending time with many friends, hitting the gym to try to work off some of this extra poundage and am praying for a break to California soon...But at present everything is riding on the film. I feel like I can't make any decisions until the 'deal's' sorted....so it's a case of sitting in limbo which is my least favorite place to sit.

FRIDAY NIGHT

The other night Ross, Derek and I went to see SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE the lastest Danny Boyle film. It was good. It was beautifully shot and the story was told in such a compelling, unravelling way. It was pretty memorable but not a film I'd want to see again - it has to be said. We had some food then each went our separate ways. Derek went to see another film, I think, Ross went home and I decided to make it a double header and saw BEDTIME STORIES. It was definitely a better, more appropriate film to see before bed! :)

SATURDAY

We took the girls swimming and for food after. E's swimming has come on leaps and bounds since she started properly like two months ago. It's most impressive. Hols is a strong swimmer. We had fun, all of us, zooming down the floom (aka Waterslide). It was pretty busy considering the wet and blustery weather out side!

SUNDAY

Managed to do some tidying then some knitting and then, as I began with, sat and looked through copious amounts of templates for blogs. None really feel right. Or the ones I saw might be fine but then I lose all my 'archive posts' or 'widgets' and I don't feel like I want to do that, so I need to work something out.

JAN BLUES?

Been feeling fragile off and on this month but especially since last night...(darn being homonally-challenged). Many-a-challenge in my life at the present moment. I'm a bit homesick as I said earlier so I've been pricing flights to the States. I was dumfounded when I came across one for 396 dollars - which i was convinced was EACH WAY but bafflingly it's ROUND TRIP! I can't believe a flight home is just over five hundred dollars. Unheard of...

I can't believe I've not seen my dad for like seven months. Man, does that suck. In the early days of emigrating here - I'd go home every three months or so. It's felt like an eternity being this long, this time. But...one word - LIMBO.

Some days - like today - I feel like moving home. Scotland has never been an 'easy' ride for me both personally and professionally and it makes me question my own sanity for remaining here. I am not sure what it is, but here I remain...for the time being.

I often toy with closing SYBD or just, well, dumping it...but I have this great sense of responsibility. I don't want to let anyone down...even when the tens of thousands of people coming to the site are 'strangers'. So yeah, that makes me question my sanity too.

Frankly I am bored with break ups. Bored. Bored. Bored. Bored doing what's been effectively a 'volunteer' job, immersed in other people's pain, bitterness, hurt and resentment...day-in-day-out...Next year marks a decade of this misery. Frankly I draw the line at a decade. But there is a bit in the film, you see me in tears - crying down Skype to my dad or on the phone to my friend Mike (I can't remember which) where I say "if you take away this site, who am I?" It's become my life, my job, my partner, my everything...It makes it hard to imagine my life without it.

But alas, I will travel onwards and see what crops up on my journey. I am sure the right path will present itself. Well I need to call it a night. I have a conference call about the film - in eight minutes - so I'd better prepare for it by making a cuppa!

Until next time...Be well.

THE TIME IS NOW

2009-01-05T07:39:00.003-08:00

I WANT ONE...

I can't help this - I see this watch and I want one. Nic does too. We've been talking about some fun business ideas that are enlightenment related and the "now" is a big thing for us...So this watch is one we both have. Has anyone seen one for real? I must track one down. The watch would be a reminder to not be re-living the past or worrying about the future..."The now is a gift that's why it's called the present" and all that jazz...

Just in from a lovely walk along the Clyde. It's gorgeous and sunny and utterly frigid. That sunshine must have lulled me into a false sense of security because my car was so iced over I could barely get the doors open due to frost! That really threw me.

I've not managed as much work today as I'd like to have done but I did get a few things accomplished and I posted more on soyouvebeendumped.com than I've done in the past two months (combined) so that's something. I read a post by a guy who was driving in Wyoming and he'd just been dumped, and the DJ on the radio was talking about the site and then reeled of my domain name...Divine indeed.

Is it not funny how when we have questions or a need - we stumble upon someone with the answer, a book, a TV show, a news item or whatever. It's crazy how we're all connected in that collective unconscious. I love it.

LATER THAT NIGHT

Derek and I just went to see the SISTERHOOD OF THE TRAVELING PANTS. It was a cute film - especially for someone who loves Joan of Arcadia and Gilmore Girls...It was a total cheese ball film but worth a view...Then it was off for some food and a proper post-holiday catch up...It really is taking me some time to get back into full swing. I bet it takes all week...

Soon it will be bath time and a chance to read THE FRIDAY NIGHT KNITTING CLUB or something like that. Yesterday Fiona brought some books to the group and said she didn't want them back so we'll all read and swap them. I think that was pretty clever. I might do the same with a few of my books here that are taking up space. This year I am aiming to be more organized and minimalist. We'll see how I fair with that.

BACK TO LIFE, BACK TO REALITY

2009-01-04T15:58:00.000-08:00

I should try to make all blog titles be song titles this year, or something...

Anyway - I have to go to bed - well I am in bed - but I have to go to sleep...

I watched a great episode of HOUSE tonight. It was a real tear-jerker...In it there was a bus crash and on the bus were House and Amber (Wilson's girlfriend). Well she was only on the bus because bloody House had been drunk and phoned Wilson for a ride. Since he was working - his girlfriend went to collect him...and of course in a seemingly random act the bus crashes and she ends up having to be put on ice until they can work out what's wrong with her. So anyway they eventually work out she's a goner but they wake her up long enough so 1) Wilson can say "goodbye" and 2) to tell her she's basically dead.

Imagine you had, like, half an hour left in your life. What would you want to say? Who would you want to spend that last bit of time with?

Wilson, at one point, goes, "why aren't you angry?" and she just looked at him and said that wasn't the last emotion she wanted to feel. Good point.

So yeah I had a few tears, I admit it. I am a sap at the best of times but this was a pretty thought-provoking episode, I feel.

MY DAY
Kicked off my day with a 25-minute run along the Clyde. It was icey and dicey in places but honestly it felt invigorating. That was about the longest run I've done in months. I usually run a bit on the treadmill but I can't run as long on it, probably because it's boring or something...

Then I went to the Tramway to meet the girls to do some knitting - but rather foolishly the Tramway is shut between Christmas and New Year's. Well correct me if I am wrong but today was Sunday...the 4th!! So we re-convened at a nearby BEANSCENE instead.

Left there and headed to Falkirk to help Mags with some computery stuff (mostly iTunes) and then on to see my buddy Kevin in Dunfermline. Had a bit of a gab and a fish supper before heading all the way back down the road to the homestead.

Picked up the DIDO record on New Year's. Man, does that woman have the corner of the market on Break Up albums. Let me tell you. She's right up there with Alanis Morissette! So I've been spinning DIDO a fair bit and a few others that Stef sent up - Razorlight and Kaiser Chiefs.

Anyway the first few tracks on the DIDO are rather excellent - such as the rather jaded number "Don't Believe in Love" (ahh a woman after my own heart - ha ha...I am sure one press article out there quotes me as a 'web guru' who "struggles to still believe in love") - with lyrics like "I want to go to bed with arms around me but wake up on my own". *Nods in agreement*. The album seems to dwindle for me, in terms of interest, as it goes on - but the first handful are pretty fab...

MONDAY

Well it's half passed twelve and I should be sleeping. I have no idea what I will do with myself when the morning comes. After editing for five weeks and nearly 2 weeks off for Christmas - this morning will be surreal for me. I suspect reality will actully bite!

I need food. I need to get SYBD sorted. That's long over due and I need to get back in a routine. This may be a tad challenging eh? Oh well we're all in the same big boat. Let's get rowin'.

Ciao for now...Peace out.

ON NEW YEAR'S DAY,...

2009-01-01T13:08:00.000-08:00

DAY ONE OF '09

Well here we are in 2009. I remember when 1999 seemed so far away...Now it's a decade after that...How odd. It was a festive holiday season for me. Some good food, good friends, mediocre films, knitting, socialising, shopping and relaxation somewhere in there too.

...And now on the first day of the year I'm suffering the post-holiday blues. I am questioning my life, my role in it, my friendships, my relationships and love - all of it really. I guess that's what we do this time of year...isn't it?

4 JAN '09

A few days later....because to be honest, I've not been in the mood for blogging of late.

So yeah, it's the wee hours of the 4th...and I am not long in from a night out with my gorgeous girlfriend Mags. She came down from Falkirk to cheer me up (and twisted my arm behind my back) and insisted on a night out on the town. I have to admit, I wasn't much in the mood to go out, but man I had a fantastic time when I did. It's great when that happens, isn't it?! I just keep reminding myself I am open to all possibilities/opportunities (that may come from seeing YES MAN last week with Ross and Grant, I don't really know).

We first took an over-priced tube trip to Aston Lane (ED NOTE: "discovery tickets" went up a WHOLE POUND SINCE YESTERDAY (!) which I find totally outrageous!) in Glasgow's posh West End.

We had a drink in "the Chip" and then one in Brel before heading into the City Centre for food. Mags, lovely soul that she is, took me for a nice meal in Yates and then we went to a wine bar Vronis -- where I ran into a "blast from my past" (always pleasant to see him) and on to All Bar One where we made a few new friends - S and J. (Mags is a babe magnet, so she is,...) It was a surprisingly-wonderful night. Lots of much-needed laughs.

Now it's late so I need to get some rest. 'Have some flat-organising to do when I wake up, perhaps meet the gals for some knitting (?) before dinner in Dunfermline. I am all over the placet these days...och well, plenty of time to sleep when I'm dead...That's my motto. Life is for living - so that's what I am doin'.

It's all good - I'm still breathing.

Happy New Year y'all.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2008-12-24T14:22:00.001-08:00

FOR THOSE WHO CELEBRATE IT

Just want to wish my lovely readers (all three of you) a very, very Merry Christmas...

I'm rather looking forward to the day for a change. It's the first time in a decade I've had a family (and someone special) to celebrate with. That's awesome and gratifying...though speak to me after...I might end up longing for those solo holidays of yesteryear...We'll see. ;)

I say that after watching FOUR CHRISTMASES tonight. Don't holidays bring up strange family dynamics? Anyway the film was mediocre at best...The highlight of the night was stopping over to see Ross and getting a nice bag of goodies off him and Grant (bless you both)...We also grabbed a fish supper (what a way to celebrate Christmas Eve!) and watched a great documentary about CSNY: Deja Vu. Nicely done...No relation to the CSI series - LOL!

Hmm so no one got me any vouchers for the massage - drats - but we're booked in for one-hour ones for Nicola's birthday. Hooray! Honestly I can't wait. Gonna be great. Much-needed.

I've had three days off and feel as though I've achieved little. Guess I better finish off Ken's gift and wrap it.

MERRY CHRISTMAS ONE AND ALL...(and HAPPY HOLIDAYS for those non-Christian among you!) Hmm, I wonder if I should whip out IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE or save it until tomorrow?

SUNDAY BEFORE XMAS....

2008-12-18T07:17:00.001-08:00

DONE WITH THE ROUGH EDIT!

On Friday evening - John and I wrapped up on the film's 'rough edit'. It was nineteen days to get us to this point. There are no visuals, no music, and my voiceover bits still need to be added, but we've got the full skeleton there. Yay!

PRODUCER PLANS TO VISIT

Tomorrow morning first thing my lovely and gorgeous producer is due at too-early-o'clock to come here to watch it on my very own telly. It's super exciting...but best not get my hopes up too much as he called to say he's not feeling 100% at the moment and may need to cancel (sigh). So tonight is all about - sorting his Xmas present, tidying the messy flat and nipping down to the gym for an hour's work out and swim.

Pretty much all I've done today is chill and knit and speak to a few people. After working so hard for a month - it feels good to just have some chill time to myself.

It's been a great, non-eventful weekend and I am delighted.

GIFT GETTING

Earlier this week I picked up a few presents for the munchskin...and had fun buying them! She's the only person I am spending any money on (and even then it's not much...) but I reckon she'll dig what I got her.

"Little girls are easy to buy for" - said Han to me last month, and she's right. I could have spent a fortune on E, but frankly that's not what Christmas is about. Sadly we are teaching kids such a materialistic message...(by spending hundreds on them every year).

I suppose my parents did the same - it's only as I grew older I got less interested in presents (even more so the past decade). Anyway it simply means I am never disappointed so that's no bad thing.

I actually told Ken not to get me anything suggesting that we go away next month somewhere cosy instead but alas he said tonight he bought me something today...so I guess that's put paid to that idea! I haven't spent too much on him - more time than cash...Stuff I am putting together for him is probably about 10 hour's worth...and a couple of tenners...so I haven't gone overboard on expenditure...

When shopping for E, I did, admittedly, see one "possession" I'd quite like (more so in the US than here) - a USB turntable. I think I might just treat myself next time AMAZON pays me. You see, I still have hundreds of albums at my dad's and as he is due to move in a month or so, it might make sense to rip the collection and then just sell it on. I mean it's not like I've played any albums in about 18 years!

The Taoist in me - is trying to cut down on the possessions anyway, and nothing would be harder for me to cut out than my music collection (in both countries!) I mean, I have several thousand CDs, and yet how often do I actually play them? (iTunes has negated that need)...

MY FIRST FILM IS DONE!

Anyway - so yeah I have officially got a DVD of my documentary in my hot little hands. Can you believe it?? Twenty-six (or so months) it took, from the day I lost my job at Q96 to here. What a trek it's been. Punctuated with many highs and lows, but even in its present, raw stage, I am more proud of this than almost anything else I've completed in my life...It's right up there with launching the Site. I guess, technically, it's like an off-shoot of the site, but truly there is a real difference to running a website and traveling around the world making a documentary!

Well producer boy has just now been in touch to say his flight may be cancelled, so it sounds like the universe it telling us something. My flat's a bit of a state anyway so perhaps it's for the best? If it's meant to be - it will be. C'est la vie.

R&R

Looking forward to next week - when I get what I've been wanting for ages - a lovely hydrotherm massage - to celebrate Christmas and Nic's birthday. We're going for simultaneous massages and honestly, I can't wait.

If you're a friend with extra cash - feel free to send me vouchers - every penny would help! The things cost 45 pounds for an hour - sheesh! But ok, worth every penny. They're heavenly. Ok it's perhaps wishful thinking that anyone reading this would actually get me any vouchers but if you don't ask, you don't get LOL. And they have them from as little as a fiver ;)

Well time to make a veggie burger (yay me - had veggie dawgs for lunch now a veggie burger for dinner - one of these days I'll make it as a proper vegetarian....) and I think I'll whack on LOVE ACTUALLY. I am in the mood for something festive..so that or IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE.

Life is good - and I am grateful. Hope your's is too. :)

17 DAYS

2008-12-17T08:59:00.000-08:00

EDITING

Seventeen days is how long John and I have been sat in his little room editing away on this here film. It's taking real shape, there've been laughs and tears and stress and squabbles but overall yeah it's been a really enjoyable experience. We've used as many people as we could use without going over board on stories. As it stands there may be a few that need cut due to sheer volume but there is always the DVD extras.

STRESSED

This is maybe the most stressed I've been in weeks, months, even years. No doubt most of the pressure is self-inflicted. There's a lot riding on this movie for me or at least that's how it feels mentally. In two more days we're due to have the rough edit and we stop this process until next year (early on). Both John and I are worn out and stressed out and in need of this upcoming holiday!

In an hour we have a conference call about the film - so I have to get ready, perk up and take notes. I'd only decided to blog a bit while sitting here as the movie got compressed so I can watch it in Quicktime. Now that it's done, I have to get back at it (and trascribe everything)...so this was just a short and sweet, stressed update from Thea Pia.

Now if you're looking for something to get me for my Christmas - let me just remind you - what I both need and want. :)

Hopefully Nicola and I will go for a pampering days at the West End spa. I usually go to the city center one but oddly enough the west end is actually cheaper for the same treatment. Go fiure. That said, I am concerned about parking at Jordanhill. C'est la vie.

Man, I am amazed at the howling wind out side these windows...Incredible.

LATER THAT NIGHT

2008-12-14T14:58:00.000-08:00

ANOTHER UPDATE: TWICE IN ONE DAY!

Well I did manage to force myself to head out into the cold and down to the gym on a Sunday night. It's the best time to go because there is no one else mad enough to be out there at that time too. Well, TWO other guys were in there with me...that was all, and they left, so by the end of my 9k bike ride, I was all on my tod in the place!

GYM WISE - I was doing so well a few months ago - then got the cold - and went like two weeks without working out. Then before I knew it was THANKSGIVING and so the deterioration of my eating habits.

Three weeks in the edit suite I've scarfed far too many chocolate and crisps and I swear I gained all the inches I'd lost. Drag.

Now is not really the time to embark on a diet so I really need to step up the workouts to be four or five times a week, I think. Yesterday we took the munchskin to the pool. Was in the gym on Friday. So that's three days in a row. Yay me. Ha. Need to get rid of this pregnant-looking belly. Yipes.

Ok need to finish watching HOUSE before heading to bed to read. One book is THE ONE MINUTE MILLIONAIRE and the other is EAT, PRAY, LOVE (only because loads of people have recommended this book this year...I'd dubious I'll like it, but will try to remain open to its principles, I s'pose)...

TEN DAYS TO CHRISTMAS

2008-12-14T12:42:00.000-08:00

FINAL COUNTDOWN

Fourteen days of editing have taken place. It's been a long time in the edit suite (one day off for Thanksgiving and that was it. Because all of my attention is on editing - I feel like my whole life is slip-sliding away. I am behind on everything - food stuff, house stuff, SYBD stuff, and other stuff. Everything really. It's a total 'mare.

It's Sunday night and nearing 9pm and I really should head to the gym. I meant to go this morning - but I ended up staying in bed until 10am...so never really bothered before heading to the Christmas Knit Meet Up. We all met at the PARK INN hotel next to Buchanan bus station. I managed to get some good food, have some nice conversation and due to the Secret Santa (AKA - Gloria) I got a small, lovely, off white, home-spun ball of yarn. Bless.

I marvel at their creativity - the women of the group. It's one, talented group of women. But I guess we all have our talents and it doesn't matter if I am a rubbish knitter...I'm making a movie! Ha.

I left the party to try to see the film FOUR CHRISTMASES...the 6pm showing and would you believe it was SOLD OUT. Figures. So I just went home and sat down and watched my own film for the umpteenth time in three weeks. One more week of editing then we stop for 2008. I wonder how much we'll be able to complete this week...

Last night I headed to Cumbernauld to call of my friend Tess for a festive tea and chat. Then, I headed further north to Falkirk to Mag's Christmas party. It was great to see her and take some festive snaps together. After three or so hours - I decided to head back to Glasgow to try to catch ALAN CRANNEY in the Merchant City...but when I got back to town it was a zoo and I couldn't find parking so I headed over to Ken's to watch SIDEWAYS.

Well I have enough time to hit the gym if I rush...

CRAP FRIDAY...

2008-12-07T15:25:00.000-08:00

Turned into a good weekend in the end. :)

Friday truly was a challenge. ARGH! I woke up "like a bear with a sore head" (or whatever that phrase is). "Wrong side of the bed". You name it - that was me.
Grumpy sod.

MORE EDITING!

'Got to John's (poor John) for DAY NINE of the editing process and really I think he could tell I wasn't my perky self. We still managed to achieve a fair bit which was great and by the end of the day we had a whole forty minutes "rough cut" of just straight interviews...This, without my story and without music / visuals. So it will "pad it out" nicely - once we add these other bits. That's awesome.

So late afternoon - I am eating my lunch - I bite my tongue so hard I feel like crying. Then I bang my head on his desk (by accident, not just cuz I was having a crap day) and at this point the bad day starts to merely become comical. It's so bad it's downright funny. To lighten my mood, John turns me on to LOUIS CK the comedian that Ricky Gervais calls ("the funniest in America...") - honestly I laughed so hard I was in tears. Doubled over. Truly. There was a bit about banks and "being broke" which had me in stitches.

Check out his bit on CONAN which is found on his page (1st link above) - Great stuff.

So yeah, that was so cool...thanks my dear Johnny boy. Bless him, John and I have a great rapport and laugh a lot. It's been a pretty pain free process editing this film. These days I am spending more time in his flat than my own!

FRIDAY EVENING

Got home from there and yet more crapness occured. For one, a scarf I made for a dear friend's Xmas pressie got doused in TEA, and then a book shelf fell apart and all the books ended up all over my bedroom...and I am sure something else crap happened - but by this point, I changed my status on Facebook to reflect that my day had just been so bad it was "comical". You have to laugh or you cry...

SATURDAY

I had a wonderful Saturday pottering about my house. Catching up on stuff. Lounging around. Knitting. Watching GILMORE GIRLS etc. Heck, I didn't even shower until four and it felt fab...

I had plans to go out with a group of girls and slowly as the day progressed they all flaked one-by-one (which was semi-irritating)...and I braced myself for a quiet night on my own when at 6pm the door bell goes and Kenneth shows up having just dropped off his munchskin back home. So we ended up having a wonderful night - fish suppers and a great Nick Cage (festive) film THE FAMILY MAN - which I had Sky-plused earlier that day. It was so good I was glad all the girls flaked on me!

SUNDAY

It's freezing - AGAIN - here today! Ken cooks me a lovely Egg-mcmuffin style brekkie at his place, and then I head to the gym for a short (but much-needed) work out. Today I merely biked about 10k. Better then nada eh? Yeah, I thought so.

Quick shower after that (at home) and then off to the Tramway to meet the girls. Have a lovely "cream tea" (scones with clotted cream!) and Ali tries to show me how to crochet a wee flower, but am so inept, I get increasingly frustrated, and piss off back home. (Ha. Patience of a seven year old, me...)

FILM AND FOOD TO WRAP UP THE WEEKEND

I had some work to do anyway. I finish transcribing all the bits of the film - well the basic in / out cues of what each person says...and then head back over to Ken's for dinner. We'd decided it was a good night for a roast and had to nip to the shop for provisions - got back and cooked an AMAZING meal. "I've never eaten so much chicken in all my life" he says. Bless him. That's all I eat.

We watch a bit of the more recent re-make of MIRACLE ON 34th ST and Ken tells me his never heard the words "KRIS KRINGLE" and I marvel at his sheltered up-bringing, but then realise, it might just be more of an American thang (yet again). :)

That link, there, does say the film Miracle on 34th Street made it more common - so yeah, there you go.

SPEAKING OF CHRISTMAS

We've started to set up his Christmas tree, which had been hidden in a secret (and scary) place beneath the floorboards, but we are leaving it for the munchskin to decorate on Wednesday. 'Should be fun. It's the first year I will have had with a munchskin around...(which I think I said recently already). 'Will sure beat my lonely, solo Christmases of yesteryear!

NOW!

I finally made my way home at 11pm - which is where I am now...on the sofa in a room lit by Christmas lights...Lovely.

Now I really must do another hour's work before bed. :(

'Might just watch my friend David's documentary on BBC2 before I go to bed instead. His is the first in the series, which is called THE NEW TEN COMMANDMENTS so I am delighted for him. Check out his work here...which I really ought to update for him soon!

I am behind in everyone's websites that I look after - including my own. SYBD is in dire need of a re-design and launch...but nothing else matters in December except my movie. Sod the lot.

I really have to go it's about to turn midnight and I still have stuff to do before I can retire for the night. Enough babbling on the blog. Cya, Thea

IN THE FINAL HOUR...

2008-11-30T15:09:00.000-08:00

DONE!

Well it's been one of my busiest months - romantically, professionally (the site and the film) and socially too...Thanksgiving and the trip to London happened, and yet still, I made it.

I finished my third "novel" for NANOWRIMO. Yep, I surpassed the fifty thousand words at 11pm on the final night (tonight). I am delighted and now utterly exhausted. My arms are beyond-tired, and I need a real break from typing for a few days, I think.

A bunch of us on SYBD were doing NANO - but I think I am the only one who persevered all the way to the end, and man, I am so glad I did. It's a great sense of achievement having done it for the third time.

Ok, in all honesty my best "work" was that first year. It'd have made a great ROM COM. Not even sure I have it anywhere but maybe some day it will be.

But this year's very well could be published one day...Once edited way down of course. And with names changed to protect the guilty. Not one for the name-and-shame thing.

So yeah - another fifty thousand words written. Yay me...NANO is all about the quantity not the quality. I don't claim it's really any good (yet)...But happy to have a "rough draft" to work from.

ANOTHER WEEK BEGINS

So I had a rather great weekend...Well it's been a pretty good week, actually (despite one woman's utter nosiness).

Now, I need to wind down for the night in a long hot candle lit bath followed by a much-needed snooze!

FILM NEWS

It's back into the edit suite tomorrow from noon. Man, it's got to be one of the most incredible periods of my life (SO FAR!)

Truly it's so exciting seeing this site morph into a FULL LENGTH FEATURE film. Incredible.

DECEMBER?

Time to change my calendar. Can you believe it's already December? I mean how did that happen?

It has been so cold...We have had a few, nice nights this week snuggling up in front of a real coal fire. Man, is that bliss or what? It's truly the best way to spend a Sunday when it's a Winter Wonderland outside, let me tell you. Heavenly.

Roll on Christmas break! Not because of the presents but because of the 1) complete rough cut of the film and 2) the time off! :)

NOV WEEKEND

2008-11-29T01:57:00.000-08:00

Hey Hey it's the weekend. I feel utterly shattered. Had my morning wake up call from a perky 7-year old this morning wanting me to come swimming...which would be fine, I think, until I look outside at the winter wonderland out there. It's frosy white as far as the eye can see. But who can resist perky 7-year olds? So I acquiesced, but not until much later I said - as I have so much to do - juggling funds for the kick off December.

Also more tidying (still left overs from Thanksgiving!) and of course I have 10k words to write for NaNoWriMo. Is that even possible? I've totally flaked on it. I started off like gangbusters getting about 35,000 words then petered out. Whoops. Well the movie is taking up 100% of my time and energy of late so that's actually more important than the writing, eh?

The film is taking shape. So far it's only four women (3 Yanks, 1 Brit) but hoping to use more of the men and other Brits...I can't wait for Producer boy to fly up (hopefully) to see it. It's the most exciting era of my life, I think.

Well just looking at my "novel" I have nine-and-a-half thousand words to write by tomorrow night to complete it. So better focus my typing energy on that and not this. :)

3s a charm! (e.g. hoping this is the one that gets published).

ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE

2008-11-26T12:38:00.000-08:00

THANKSGIVING IS UPON US!

It's the Eve of Thanksgiving and I am excited for tomorrow. I just got my gear on to go to the gym - got out to the car but forgot my headphones and so came back in to retrieve them only to feel too tired to really go work out. Instead I shall concentrate my remaining energy on getting this place together before tomorrow's celebrations.

There are half-a-dozen folks coming over to celebrate with me. My nearest and dearest (or most of them) here in Scotland. The turkey is lined up, the potatoes (sweet and regular) lined up, the veggies galore...the only thing currently missing is the PUMPKIN PIE, oh my.

I went to my usual American import store on Great Western Road and the guy said "we should be getting a delivery on Thursday at 2pm" - and I'm like "oh great, right in the middle of my cooking extravaganza!"...so now in the middle of my day - I have to schlep over to the West End to get a tin of canned pumpkin...all so I can have the PUMPKIN PIE. It's illegal to have Thanksgiving without it. Honest, it is...

BBC SCOTLAND

In the middle of the afternoon while on a call with my agent, the lovely James - BBC RADIO SCOTLAND called and asked me to come in and chat on tomorrow's MAC & CO show. I am always delighted to do Fred's show ("always a pleasure never a chore" I say) so of course I'm breaking my "no work on Thanksgiving" rule in order to contribute...on the subject of Thanksgiving...so that's ok. (Besides after buying a new car and SKY + I could use the ca$h for the credit card bill) ;)

SYBD UPDATE

Well London was great last week as I blogged the other day.

Really it was so wonderful to meet up with all the Minters (an online group I've recently joined), the site members (passed and present), old friends and work associates. It truly was a great mixture of business and pleasure. So great to get away and always lovely to return to my humble abode.

I had a fantastic meeting about the SYBD BRAND. Richard Branson look out - if, erm I mean "when" this deal comes off...Global domination is on the cards - so it's not just the site -- but the documentary film, the books, the TV series, the soundtrack/s,...it's an EMPIRE!

Frankly it can't come soon enough...what I wouldn't give to be able to buy my dad a house for Christmas or at least a new VAN as his just packed in. Hopefully next year eh? Fingers crossed. All being well - I'll be buying us both houses next year but that's for another story on another day.

Speaking of the film...

Today was DAY TWO of the editing process for this film. We have around a dozen interviews and trying to whittle it down to just a few has proved very challenging indeed. I'd quite like a bit of everyone, but It's unlikely to be the way it goes, unfortunately. Will do my best...and just hope that no one feels pissed off I've not used them or used enough of them.

BECOMING A FILM

Slowly we're seeing the skeleton of the film take shape. The "arc" is there and the sub-stories - with a plethora of themes. It's more than just a film about break ups. It's more than an extended advert for SYBD. It's the story of a person who tries to help other people move on and who struggles to move on herself. There is this constant inner struggle involved.

The rough cut is due in a few week's time. It's a scary concept - putting yourself "out there" like that. I feel quite certain I will be placed in a situation where I am facing much scrutiny - but hopefully can handle whatever gets thrown at me. I usually do.

Again, watch this space.

NO BEES FOR T...

Anyway - now that I am doing Radio Scotland - I have to miss the press show for "The Secret Lives of Bees" in the morning....'bummer that...but I've not finished the book yet anyway (getting close). 'Only taken about five days to read it - which isn't too bad for me. I am notorious for having a low attention span and taking AGES to make it through books! The fact I've read this book for a week speaks volumes.

I think it's time for an early night on the sofa to watch the latest installment of HEROES. I am beyond tired. Who knew editing was so exhausting...? Speaking of which, right now on the Heroes Unmasked episode, they're talking about editing and how challenging it is. Here, here...Today was especially challenging because we ended the day with footage of me having a meltdown on camera (tears). I'm dreading seeing it on the "big screen", but at least it's 100% real, true, and me at one of my lowest ebbs this year - after one of my site members committed suicide.

Well on that not-too-cheery note, I bid you a good night. For my fellow Americans, HAPPY THANKSGIVING tomorrow and for everyone else - Happy Thursday...

HOME SWEET HOME

2008-11-23T14:49:00.001-08:00

BACK IN BLACK

And catching up on my week's worth of television...First up it's Grey's Anatomy.

It's baltic in the UK at the moment - so much so I woke up and saw snow falling outside my window...And started to worry that we might get snowed in before getting out to Luton. I needn't have worried because by the time we hit the road the rain turned to sleet and then rain and washed all the snow away.

LEAVING ON A JET PLANE

Got to Luton in plenty of time - in fact there was no line at all. So after a quick check in I headed toward the departures lounge upstairs and through security and into the main waiting area - where one of my favorite places is - the Krispy Kreme stand. Stocked up on half-a-dozen donuts for the flight back.

Truly life doesn't get much better than KK donuts...Don't worry I shared them with the lovely Kenneth...and I have some left over for tomorrow morning.

MONDAY MORNING

So tomorrow is one of the most if not thee most exciting day of my year...yes tomorrow I view the rough rough rough "rought cut" of my documentary. I can't imagine how it will look - I truly can't. I am beyond excited. Ken's done an amazing song for the end credits called "Heal the Hurt". It's gonna be a hit if I have anything to say about it. I can't wait to get a proper recording of the track.

PICTURE PERFECT

Just uploaded a bunch of pics to my FLICKR account - some of course are hidden only to family and friends...I didn't take as many pictures as I normally take when I visit London but I suspect I'll be down there in the next eight weeks again...Just a hunch! Oddly enough I brought the camera to do some filming - but I just never really felt like it...No big loss.

Well the sooner I get to bed the sooner I can see this "rough cut",...I can't wait to take this film to the festival circuit in 2009, I really can't. Exciting times indeed.

LONDON CALLING

2008-11-21T16:46:00.000-08:00

Well time is flying by. It's way late and I uber-tired (if that even makes sense) but wanted to say a big "howdy" to the two, (or is it three?) friends who read this here personal blog (and the handful of Ken spies who snoop)....

LONDON

I've been in London a few days now. Having a fabulous time. Taking heaps of pictures but am just about ready to go home. I love to get away - it has to be said - but it doesn't take long before I miss my life, my bed, my newly installed SKY+! Course if I had to be anywhere it's here at Han's - one of my longest, most-dear, supportive friends. This truly is my home away from home...and every now and again it's nice to see how the other half lives ;)

Got in late-ish Wednesday and then headed off Thursday into town to meet up with Amy a wonderful (former) site member. We had a fantastic day together. Two kindred spirits it was a true meeting of minds. We spent our afternoon wandering Soho in search of a hotel to have a "high tea" in. Eventually we ended up in none other than the Soho Hotel - a five star boutique hotel. Fan-tastic! So relaxing and wonderful.

After an hour or two it was a mad, commute-time dash to Holburn to find the party I flew down for. Only my Blackberry was playing up and I didn't know where I was going and the street wasn't clearly marked so I ended up wandering around the area for half an hour before I finally found the place called the Square Pig. Met up with some fantasic, like-minded individuals who rather do what I do...moderate a forum. It was great to talk shop and compare notes and I even came away feeling like I made a few friends! So yeah, I won the prize for traveling furthest for the meet up and I reckon it was worth it.

Met up with Luke on the train home and we walked up the hill and arrived home by midnight. He'd left the Ryan Adams concert early - citing that he was "boring". 'Course he has seen the guy four times...so no wonder.

THE NEXT DAY

Then it was up fairly early in order to head to EMI to have a meeting about the film. Was great to catch up with Stef, have some food and a brainstorm about the next six months. It's exciting times indeed.

Was due, I think to meet Jac (a film producer) - but was either flaked on or never got the cancellation message - so I wandered from Holburn (had to pick up my camera case I'd left behind last night!) then to meet Carole a friend who worked with me at Q96. We went to a cute cafe on Poland Street and got caught up on each other's news. At around seven I made my way to Bodeans to meet whoever was going to show. I thought we'd have double the amount than we did but sometimes life is like that. Quality not Quantity right?

It ended being me and four guys. LOL. Not complaining. Jimmy came down from Oxford, Neil (another longterm friend, like Hannah - met the same weekend) flew in from Berlin on his way to Oxford (funnily enough he lives around the cornder from Jimmy...) and John showed too. John and I have met several times now and it's always a pleasure, never a chore. As ever, fashionably late, Mike from Single Living showed up at 10pm as we were ready to walk out the door. That's so Mike.

He dropped me at Euston and I quickly made my way to Kings X to get the train outa dodge. Read my book the whole way home - THE SECRET LIVES OF BEES on Thanksgiving (yipppy). I am only reading it because I have a press show for the film next week and saw it on Han's bookshelf so why not!

There's more to report but it's after 1am so I need to sleep just now.

FRIDAY - A RAINY NOVEMBER NIGHT

2008-11-07T14:27:00.000-08:00

Well it's Friday night and it's cold wet and windy...and therefore cosy socks are essential. Currently, I am sat in my leather Ikea chair typing a bit on facebook, msn, and the like.

I've been out of commission most of the week with a yucky cold. I feel like I've been in a cave. I have at least managed to tackle some admin issues, post a blog or two on SYBD and purchase a thing or two...so essentially I've been a productive little bee of late.

FILM MAKING & WHAT NOT

As I said - I've mostly been out of commission but I did manage to go along to a screen writers night at the GFT and heard Adrian Meade speak about pitching...Then the next night to GMAC (Glasgow Media Access Centre) for CAFE FLICKER. I felt pretty ropey but it was a pretty good night seeing local film making talent. Quite inspiring really. I now count myself among them - as Stefan likes to point out. It's weird considering myself a film maker - it's not something I ever set out to be but it's sure what's happening....Cannes 2009 - here we come. (Well that's my goal at any rate - DREAM BIG - that's my motto).

NANO 2009 UPDATE

I have even managed more than twelve thousand words on my nanowrimo. Ok, yeah, I admit it...I've been a bit of a cheater on that - because it's not technically a novel that I am writing - but more the "back story" on SYBD. It's been very strange walking down memory lane - to the year 1995 - just before my marriage bit the dust. And what's weirder is six months before he ended it - I was saying how much of a joke the marriage was and how I knew it was gonna come to and end. What's even weirder is I can't blame him - what a miserable sod I was back then. No wonder he dumped me. Ha.

Thankfully we both went on to bigger and better things (him even better than me, but with this new SYBD film - I'll certainly eclipse him big time - ha ha - the best revenge is living well),...and my experiences have certainly shaped who I have become...A happier, more self-aware, forgiving, positive, creative woman. So a big thanks to him and the others who dumped me...I wouldn't be here without your help. :)

SAYONARA

I have to go now - I've got some more words to write - as I get the feeling I won't be doing too many this weekend. I believe, get this, I am getting a new car on Sunday. Well a new-to-me car! :) Ironically, the same type of car I had before I moved to this country (but newer).

Aint life grand?

NOVEMBER SPAWNED A MONSTER

2008-11-03T10:29:00.000-08:00

HOW DID IT GET TO BE NOVEMBER ALREADY?

I just carved a pumpkin...I'd Googled something like "carving pumpkin templates" (or words to that effect) and came across this funky page with geeky pumpkins and one was inspired by John Cusack and SAY ANYTHING - so of course I had to do it. Yes, i am a geek. I confess.

Umm, so yeah, I just did it. It's not great, but because I know what it is - I can tell what it is. If I hadn't have told you, you might not have.

I've made one batch of pumpkin seeds and think tonight I might do another. The first batch didn't come out great - I should Google recipes for them.

This morning I went to a Body Balance class and discovered just how imbalanced and in-flexible I truly am. Surprisingly enough, I was one of the YOUNGEST in the class. The trouble was - some of the older folks were seemingly twice my age and twice as flexible. Drats. Must try harder.

After a super busy weekend with my lovely friend Ken and his (gorgeous) bossy-boots daughter Eve, I am truly exhausted. Ken is too. 'Said he was going to bed at six tonight because he's so tired! To be fair he's got a cold as well,...(tis the season).

Honestly, I feel almost as tired, but need to hold on until much later, as tonight's 1) my only night alone and "in" for the week and 2) my "guilty TV pleasures" night. Yes, I watch a bit of quality TV (lol) on Mondays. For instance "America's Next Top Model" and much more importantly "Lipstick Jungle". (The New Sex and the City - same creator) It's so addictive.

GOOD NEWS: THE MOVIE IS GONE

Well folks, it's official - I think I can actually say the SYBD documentary is in the can. I handed over all footage to my lovely editor John and now he has the chore (erm, task) of watching 33 tapes. Bless him. I did it for about 10 days straight and I started to go loopy by the end of it. I hope he fares better.

Anyway - I am beyond-excited about seeing the "rough cut" in December. I may still add two or three wee interviews in there - we'll see how it goes in the "rough cut" -- if it's needed or not. Time will tell. But I'd quite like to re-shoot Roger the Welsh Policeman and Kylie the Irish student to name a few.

Anyway it's nearly seven PM (!) and here I am still working (well ok, multi-tasking), so I think it's time to call it a night and have some dinner and relax.

NANOWRIMO UPDATE

Oh but before I go, for those who will be following this year's NANOWRIMO progress, it's "DAY 3", and I have passed five thousand words - so a pretty auspicious start once again! I'd love to reach 10k tonight, but I don't think that's possible,...what with my busy TV-watching schedule that's on the cards for later! :)

NANOWRIMO - Day 1

2008-11-01T01:44:00.001-07:00

Well it began at midnight last night off I went. I did 1894 words (more than today's target) so I feel like I am off to an auspicious start! It's not high quality, good words but it's words none the less. I am aiming to do another 1000 or 2000 words today so maybe I can take tomorrow off and do nothing.

Due to working on the documentary tapes for the past week and a bit - it's made me a very dull, grumpy girl (sorry to those around me - especially Ken, around mid week)...I've had a headache for four days which is completely abnormal. I've never really been one to suffer headaches...let alone ones that last THIS LONG! So it's not great at the moment.

I went over and filmed Eve getting ready for Halloween. She was dressed as a witch and wee Rebecca next door went as a cute black cat, appropriately enough. What was most disturbing was seeing the kind of rubbish Eve got in her "trick or treat" bag. Well rubbish is a perspective of course - she didn't know any different so she was over the moon with the random fruits, monkey nuts (peanuts in shells), coinage, and packet of "Ready Salted" crisps. I guess in theory - she got nearly five pounds and she can go buy her own candy with it. It's just that I felt like the Scots are hopeless with their "treat"-giving.

No one knocked on our door...apart from Eve and Rebecca - and I gave them Milk Duds. (The world's tiniest Milk Duds boxes). Anyway that and carving the pumpkin was the highlight of the week.

Speaking of pumpkins - I got sent this picture this week from my new-found Brazilian friend Lea. It made me laugh so I share it with you. Well I'd better get back to the footage as Editor John is due Chez Moi by ten this morning to pick up the footage and whip it into a documentary.

Our target for the rough cut is Dec 17. I'll be beyond amazed if we manage - but over-the-moon all the same.

Oh yeah and I went to see GHOST TOWN with Ross on Thursday night. We both enjoyed it. It was nothing earth shattering but fun to see NYC and Ricky Gervais wasn't half bad...I laughed a fair bit - (in spite of my sore head).

After it I rushed across the street to the Royal Concert Hall to see Al Green - only to find Al was on down at the Clyde Auditorium - so I had to jump a taxi and whiz my way down. I made it in time to find my seat in the balcony - and this was my view. Nice huh? Not. I stayed for an hour and got a bit bored to be honest (I blame my view and my head) but his songs were long and drawn out, and the jokes were redundant. He sounded good - in particular on "How Can You Mend a Broken Heart" and on "Tired of Being Alone" - and especially on "Let's Stay Together". It was nice to see a legend - shame I wasn't feeling better with better seats. When I first got ushered in the woman said - down in front to the left. I walked all the way down there to be told I was upstairs! Pisser that.

Well that's how this week has been...Better luck next week! Onwards and upwards.

SHORT SUNDAY SNIPPET

2008-10-26T06:34:00.001-07:00

More rain, comme toujours. Managed to get down the gym for a wee workout...Trying to make the most of this membership. I think I've lost about half a stone but don't quite quote me on that. In any event - clothes are loser and face less fat - so all good :)

Now it's back to the front of the TV to spool through more footage. I am really kicking myself for not having gone through (like this) all of the footage and detailed the descriptions better than I have done. It'd have saved me several day's work. I mean I have had these tapes for months (and in some cases more than a year). So now like on the verge of a big exam I am trying to cram in 40+ footage in the space of a weekend. No mean feat.

I had to break down and phone my lovely editor John,(while on the treadmill this morning!), to push tomorrow's meeting to the end of the week - because I simply don't have enough hours to spool through all this footage before 10am tomorrow! You see, it's different watching it now - as I possess what's called a "paper edit" of the film - so now when I am watching it - I am looking for specific bits. It's like finding pieces of a puzzle and trying to get it to fit together. So, though I've watched most tapes more than once, watching it this time is in fact different / more important. It's so exciting! My enthusiasm is palpable. Can you feel it? I am sooo excited. I just can't wait to see this finished project. Better get to it.

Tomorrow I am going to be tied up all day as an "extra" for a sitcom. I am sure it'll be piss-boring, but it's ££. Must wear comfy shoes eh? And God-willing, my dad's latest care package should arrive...Too bad he forgot to put in the main thing he was sending to me (some DVDs). Silly daddy! I told him to hold off sending the DVDs until after Halloween when he can pick up some cheap candy for me! ;)

Aint life grand? Ciao for now.

"IF YOU'RE WORRIED ABOUT THE WEATHER...

2008-10-23T04:14:00.000-07:00

...you picked the wrong place to stay..." (LCD Soundsystem)..."It's raining, again" (Supertramp)...That could be another song of the week...Good ole Supertramp :)

Blustery out there -- 'been that way for days on end....But it's cool, because I've had little reason to go out (for days) -- with the pile of DV tapes that I have to spool through. And of course, thanks to the kindness of a few lovely people this past week or so, I have a fully-stocked fridge, and technically wouldn't need to leave the house for weeks! :)

To be fair I've been out a lot lately. In and out and in and out...Knitting, shopping, driving, taxi-ing...the list goes on...But a true Cancer likes their shell, and that's where I am happiest...(especially when it's pissing with rain like this - LOL).

PISSING WITH RAIN & PISSING AND MOANING

People keep banging on about how "bad" the weather is, or how "depressed" it's making them and frankly what a bunch of hogwash it is. It's all judgments. It is what it is...and thanks to Byron Katie I am "LOVING WHAT IS". In her book she talks about how people "argue with reality" - and that's when we get most upset or frustrated. It's revolutionized how I think, it really has. And how I speak for that matter.

Yesterday, I chauffeured Kenneth to Staples to get some office supplies when we had front row seats for a security guard giving some shop lifter a Rodney-King style kickin'. It was the most horrible over-the-top experience I'd witnessed in years. I honestly wasn't sure what to do. I felt like putting myself down as a witness but Kenneth urged me not to get involved. What's right in a situation like this? In comparison it was a giant picking on an ant.

The guard was a big beefy thing. And when I say we had front rows seats the landed on the hood of my car while we were sitting in it! How is that for ring-side action. It was awful. Though I am not a fan of thieves (who is?) his treatment was appalling. The guard had already apprehended him and still proceeded to lay about four or five punches into the guy. It made me ill for hours after it. Should I ring the police to be a witness? Would you come forward?

That was more than enough excitement for me for the weekend. The rest of my weekend is/will be spent in front of the TV spooling through footage as I have to give the tapes over to my editor Monday morning...Yay.

And after that - I am going to be an EXTRA on a TV sitcom for the day. I'll try to blog it then. Watch this space.

:)

IT'S THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF MY 80s BOOK!

2008-10-17T05:03:00.000-07:00

SPECIAL OFFER FOR LIMITED TIME ONLY!

So while on the treadmill at the gym this morning, I had a rather random, "light bulb" moment...As this month marks the 10TH ANNIVERSARY of ESSENTIAL 80s POP QUIZ, I thought I'd do something special until Christmas 2008...

You see, I have a few (hundred) copies of my self-published, 80s music, trivia book (published in Oct '98) left over, and instead of waiting around for people to buy it on AMAZON UK (which you can do of course), I decided to GIVE it Away...Times are tough, but the best things in life are FREE!

(Incidentally, I note with interest some chancer is selling it for more than sixteen pounds (like $30.00 USD)...The discrepancy on Amazon is staggering - it goes from just under five pounds to sixteen-plus pounds. Youch!

So if you want, you can have it from me for the price of the postage and packing (S&H). It's a decent deal. Don'tchathink? As ever the CHOICE is yours. I would make if you did buy it through AMAZON, but in this case - let's cut out the middle man! Get it direct off me!

TO BUY ESSENTIAL 80s POP QUIZ book:

ORDERS FROM THE UK - £1.50 (apx USD $ 2.60)

.................
FOR THE REST OF THE WORLD - £ 1.99 (apx $3.50)
.................

Payment by paypal* or by check/cheque in US or UK currencies. (There are different addresses according to country) - so email me if you want to pay by the "old school way" instead of the electronic way! And I will tell you where to send the snail mail :)

ABOUT THE BOOK

In Essential 80s, there are 192 pages of Rock, Pop, New Wave, and Punk questions. In fact, there are 900 questions about 600 various bands/artists from 1979-1989.

There are a few bloopers in there too - can you spot them? :)

This would be a cool, limited edition, short print run book to give someone for a gift for their birthday, Christmas or just because they think they know alot about 80s music! I think I know a lot about 80s music and I can't even answer these questions any more! Ha.

CONTACT THEA

Any questions - AND/OR to make paypal payments* - please use - soyouvebeendumped (at) googlemail.com

While I hate to beg, please, please, please take a copy of the book off me - so I can use the space in my hallway a whole lot better...(and because it's a great deal - FREE. It's worth every penny, I guarantee it.)

ED NOTE: Remember to include the address you want it sent to and if you want it signed to anyone. Some day when I am famous, it might actually be worth something. Certainly the £1.50 you spent on postage. :)

2 New Blog Posts on SYBD this week...

2008-10-15T07:51:00.000-07:00

MID WEEK RAMBLE

Well I am doing my utmost to be productive...but don't we all have those weeks where everything seems to be a bit of a chore (or a bore)? Well I did manage to get two blogs posted on SYBD this week! The first is about RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS and the whole "pay it forward" principle. Today's was written by "Husky" a long time site member - who even though "moved on" still kicks about the place to help support the lovelorn the world over. Bless her.

The RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS series will be a weekly thing and is take from the thread of the same name on sybd

The second (yesterday's) was done bit site member Kylie and is part of the "ASK SYBD" series and this question was "How can my ex move on so quickly?"

There's more to add but better do it later as I have to walk to town to meet some MEET UP folks for Coffee! Well in my case, hot chocolate!

IN THE STUDIO WITH KENNY ELLIOT

2008-10-14T06:10:00.000-07:00

MUSIC TO MY EARS MY DEARS,...

Last night - the car barely made it to the studio in Clydbank. Introduced KENNY to ALAN CRANNEY, Joe and Lloyd and off we went to the back to lay down two tracks. Well most of the time was taken up with one called "The Highs and the Lows". First the guitar track was laid down, then the vocals, then the organ, then the piano, then the electric guitar....

But it felt good to be a part of the whole process (with video camera in hand, natch). I've seen this song grow from its first few lines. I've added a few suggestions and I think it's one of his best (if I do say so myself - LOL). The challenge is that much of the song is about "us" (which he describes it as a "rocky relationship") making it a little hard to hear at times.

We certainly have a challenging time with each other - sometimes - but as the song goes, as a result of our time together "we're better now - not worse". Truth be told, we make a good team. Maybe the best of any of my previous pairings...

Anyway on the track, the guys were just brilliant and over all the track came out good (save for one or two blips where a part of the guitar makes an odd crackle...don't ask me)...

After about two hours recording "The Highs and the Lows" we had just enough time to record "Here Alone". Just Ken and a guitar. The same guitar that made the strange crackle sounds...but this time he was aware of what it was and therefor played around the spot that caused the noise. So from that respect I preferred that song.

It was a long night but great to walk away with 2 CDs - one track each - that we can post on his new site...or his Ning.

Meanwhile ALAN CRANNEY is a super-talented musician in his ownright (as all the guys last night were) and his video for "Aint a Preacher" is one I discovered on YouTube last week though he says it's from a few years ago. Watch it below.

So yeah we have two tracks in the cold light of today,...and my mechanic had to walk over to get my car to the shop. It literally died a death, bless its cotton socks. Thank goodness he works just around the corner. The handiest mechanic I've ever had! Hope it doesn't cost me an arm and a leg...He'll ring any time now. Wish me luck. Cheers.

JAMES BLUNTY -N- TEDDY T

2008-10-11T13:42:00.000-07:00

COOL AS BLUNT

Last night we were on the list for the lovely TEDDY THOMPSON (L: pic with me)opening for James Blunt. We didn't reckon we'd stay too long for James Blunt but once the show kicked off we were sizably-impressed. Stop laughing, I'm not kidding. He was very entertaining and the light show was spectacular. He ventured into the audience - walked all the way to the back where a piano rose from the ground and he played "Goodbye My Lover" from there. I have to admit, I shed a wee tear. Yeah, it surprised me too. Not very often I am "moved to tears" - especially in a huge venue like the SECC.

Had another brief chat with TEDDY THOMPSON before James came on. You see, Teddy has come to do my radio show a few times in the past, we've gone out drinking a few times, and he's always a been a fairly genuine, kind person - so I always feel compelled to look him out and say "hello"...(Not even sure he remembers me but he's always kind just the same). I explained that I am making a film about So You've Been Dumped and told him I'd like to use his song "Separate Ways" in it.

Just need to sort out the publishing rights...He seemed a bit confused on who I needed to get permission from (him or his label, I reckon).

SUNNY SATURDAY

After not sleeping too great last night - we headed out to the West End for a wander around the Botanic Gardens. They were having not only a book fair but a special event for orchids too. What a great way to spend a sunny day. We had a good walk along the Clyde before heading to a wee Italian cafe in Cardonald.

Well I've managed to stay awake until the time I'd hoped to last until. Now that I've done that - I think I need a brief soak and to head to bed. I can't wait.

zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

AS SEEN ON (S) TV

2008-10-06T14:29:00.001-07:00

MONDAY NIGHT

Started to write this blog earlier and never finished it...I guess I got *that* busy doing umteen other things...So anyways, was helping my lovely friend Kenneth on a business document this evening when Grant text to say he'd just seen me and my "shawl" on TV. So it turns out I had my 15 minutes of fame and missed it. Oh well it's on the web ON STV'S SITE only for 30 days. Not my shining hour but oh well...No big deal.

THE REST OF THE WEEK'S UPDATE

It's been all go at Dumped HQ...Friday I took myself off to see "HOW TO LOSE FRIENDS AND ALIENATE PEOPLE" at Parkhead. (I like going there because it's always empty - even on Friday and Saturday nights. In one way that's good, but in another - less so, because it probably will need to be shut down eventually as most people go into the town one instead now.) The movie was fairly dire, no relation to Dale Carnegie one bit, and not at all one I'd buy, but I suppose it was adequate (just). Actually I can't really say I recommend in, in case you come back to me and blame me for losing 2 hours of your life...

HEROES

Stopped by my friend Ross's pad for a chat about HEROES which has finally restarted! Ross has a great DVD recorder and has compiled not just the first two episodes but also some of the specials the ran in the run-up to the launch of season 3. So he loaned me the DVD and boy was I not disappointed. When episode 2 ended I think I shouted "Whaaaaaaat?", shook my head and said to myself "Wow, I didn't see that coming". Truly I didn't. I loved it!

ENTOURAGE

It's great that there are so many good shows back on. HEROES, ENTOURAGE, DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES (ok it's not great but certainly watchable) and a new one from Candice - LIPSTICK JUNGLE - seems adequate for a Sex & the City replacement. Anyway I guess it's good that it's this time of year...as dark winters are already set upon us. I know it's only fall but, to quote one of Kenny Elliot's new songs "it feels just like winter with these extra layers on".

LAYERED EFFECT

Is it affect or effect? I am usually pretty good with language but have to confess those two do often confuse and allude me...I digress...As we're nearing holidays, I have begun to start making stuff for people's Christmases. Well I am making my own testers first but will begin making stuff for my friends in earnest in the coming week. This past Saturday I finished my first shawl. It's pink and pictured here. It's not brilliant but it's a step up from my usual....scarves!

So that's me, able to do scarves, hats and shawls. One day I may even make it up to jumpers or perhaps I should try socks first? I still can't read a pattern, nor do I really want to (yet anyway)...I just like doing what I feel like doing ;)

One of these days - I'll be able to do all kinds of things...my next feat is to learn to crochet which would kill time on long flights to California...

GYM NUT

Been a real gym nut. I've not lost a pound, I don't think, but hoping I am losing inches. I think I've lost a bit in my face, of all places, but who can be sure? It's not like I can measure that. Clothes are feeling a bit looser on me, yay, and I jogged to the top of Ross's stairs the other night without even being mildy winded, so that's progress indeed.

6 FOR THE TINDERSTICKS

Last night, six of us attended the Tindersticks gig. I am rather new to this band's music but thoroughly enjoyed the show (and the company). It was a wonderful night out and a great venue (The City Halls). Took some pictures - until I was forbidden to do so - so will have have to upload them later on this week. They really remind me of someone - and it's driving me to distraction trying to work out who?

Anyone? Anyone? Bueller?...

CARE PACKAGE

Dad sent a care package on Friday and it arrived on Monday. How great is that? It was filled with potato chips (aka 'crisps'), batteries (good ones for my camera!), 2 books, a bunch of other goodies and an eight gig card for my blackberry. I am currently up passed my bed time loading tracks to it. EIGHT GIG...whoohooo! There is a random mix of - spoken word (personal development stuff), acoustic, soul, rock, indie, pop - you name it, it's on it.

Also managed to fire up some CDs that Fiona sent from Australia. Quite excited to give them a whirl. Must sync the pod to the MAC....soon.

MONDAY MONDAY

2008-09-28T12:06:00.000-07:00

HOLIDAY MONDAY

Well it's been a pretty good, long weekend. Had a totally lazy day Saturday. Truly lazy which doesn't often happen.

Sunday was marginally more productive. Had a nice, long, walk to the gym (well ok it's only 1.5 miles - each way) and a near-10k ride on the bike whilst there. My total steps were more than fourteen thousand (allegedly seven miles).

I didn't see any movies this past weekend - which is somewhat surprising, but I did finish another Nicholas Sparks book called THE CHOICE. That made 2 novels read this week (largely unheard of for me, the slowest reader on the planet). I am rather looking forward to NIGHTS IN RODANTHE opening in a week's time. Hope it's decent. I do like Diane Lane.

NEW(YOU)SLETTER ALERT

I am unveiling a new newsletter soon - and hope that if you haven't already, you'll pop by soyouvebeendumped.com to sign up for it. It will start off by coming out every two months and if I can get my act together - monthly by this time next year. (It's good to have goals).

CHANGE EVERYTHING

It seems to be a time of change at the moment...Change in ownership of financial institutes, change in weather, change in everything,...Heading out into the night on Saturday night, I could see my breath and I got the feeling that winter will soon be upon us. It's already feeling colder inside Camp Dumped here.

We're on the verge of changing to a new month and that just inches us that much closer to Christmas and New Year which I am doing my utmost to not dread. I am likely to be alone in Scotland, again, this year as I am more likely to head to California in the New Year.

Well now that my lovely friend has put up a shelf above my PC (yesterday), I think it's high time I tidied my desk and head for the gym. I really feel like I have fallen off the wagon in terms of food intake and gym visits! Must catch up on some lost ground.

KNITTING,

2008-09-24T04:50:00.000-07:00

KNITTING ON TV?

Last night, at my knitting group, (stop laughing Knitting is "cool" or haven't you heard?), we were filmed for the Scottish Television show (do they still call themselves 'Scottish Television'?) called "The 5:30 Show". Had my few minutes of fame being interviewed whilst knitting...not small feat given I am the "most novice" knitter in the group! It was a real laugh and though the filmed for something like an hour - I'd be surprised if I make the final cut! How ever I was asked to come and chat about the So You've Been Dumped movie - so you never know. I might get my few minutes of fame after all. Watch this space.

Today I am supposed to be working and article for the newsletter..."More Tips to Get Over It" type of thing but have been faffing about instead. Quelle suprise. I ended up on Facebook - wondering if it's time I change my status message or not...and through Linda Sherman's page discovered a guy named Pete Cashmore...who I'd never heard of but who is from Scotland and now lives in Northern California (hey we swapped places!) and he founded a Web 2.0 blog called "MASHABLE". I love what he did for Current TV...If you got a spare ten minutes - check this out.

I'd better do so work. I am so easily distracted, sheesh - what's up with that?

THE TALENTED TEDDY T

Oh yea, before I go can I just say that I am beyond excited about tomorrow night's gig. TEDDY THOMPSON at Oran Mor. He's coming to support his new album A PIECE OF WHAT YOU NEED. His latest album is pretty darn great - over all, though not sure it's surpassed my love of SEPARATE WAYS his last record. Anyway it's the most excited I've been about a show in yonks. Hope it's a good'un.

RUSHED FRIDAY UPDATE

2008-09-19T02:45:00.001-07:00

BLIND SIGHTED?

I just looked up the word blindsided and blind sighted. I usually say blind sided but sometimes people come on SYBD and say blind sighted. In a way I guess either works huh?

Just in from seeing the third movie of the week. Sure am getting use of the Cineworld card this month (unlimited films for 12 quid). Hell I've paid for it this week alone! Today's film was the new Helen Hunt movie. I love Helen but felt a wee bit bad for her because she looks anorexic in a way to me. Bless her. But it was a great film - well acted (and directed by her) and also starred Bette Middler, Matthew Broderick and the lovely Colin Firth. No bad thing. It felt pretty realistic in its portrayal of breaking up to be honest. It's a messy thing and seldom do things go smoothly in the process and people behave all erratic. (I know I did anyway). I liked that about the film. It felt pretty 'real' to me.

WALK THIS WAY

On the way home - I stopped into Byres Road to pick up my new pedometer. Unlike Bridget Jones, I don't count cigs and alcohol, I count steps! Love doing that.

NIGHTS ON RODANTHE

I have just called a local library to keep a book by for me. A Nicholas Sparks book called Nights in Rodanthe so I am off to pick it up before 5pm. Must dash. I want to read the book before the new film comes out! It stars Richard Gere and Diane Lane!

Yippeee. Must scoot! Bye!

PS: Here's an article from Yahoo I came across today on Cheating Husbands. Nice.

MOVIES MOVIES MOVIES & MORE

2008-09-17T07:29:00.000-07:00

THE BOY IN THE STRIPED PAJAMAS

Last night I met the girls for a bit at Beanscene, Kelvinhall. Bit of banter but wasn't in the mood so I just headed off to see a film at the Cineworld. I chose the BOY IN THE STRIPED PJs because it was the first film I wanted to see. I had thought of seeing the DUCHESS, but it was not for 15 minutes later - so opted for the BOY...Well it was a well acted, fairly compelling drama but didn't the ending suck raw eggs? I left feeling utterly deflated. Truly I did. Not the experience I want to have when I leave the cinema. Tonight I should leave feeling a wee bit better - after Nic and I go see (remake of) THE WOMEN. I've been wanting to see this for ages though I highly doubt it'll be as good as I'm hoping. I find it actually bizarre there are no men in the film at all. Anyway will report back on that one. Trying to keep my optimism in check. Seriously almost any time I excited to see a film - it bites.

GOODBYE ITUNES

I've been trying for days to get my iTunes to work. It's just not happening. I've uninstalled, reinstalled nothing is happening so I just bid a farewell to iTunes and I am giving Media Monkey a whirl. Honestly I'll probably go back to iTunes but I've just been so frustrated with the stinkin' program ever since. Add to that the fact the iPod wasn't syncing to it on the PC - I just plum gave up.

BREAK UP LINES?

2008-09-15T06:56:00.000-07:00

IS BREAKING UP HARD TO DO?

Good news! I received a call this morning from the Mac and Co radio show on BBC RADIO SCOTLAND - asking me to appear on it tomorrow. As regular readers to my blog know - I simply love doing it. It's always a laugh but I always ask "what's the topic?" before I answer if I am free or not. If I like the topic, I am usually "free" to do it! Since tomorrow's topic is "Break Up Lines" and it's one of my favourite subjects...so I said "yes". All afternoon, I've been thumbing through the pages of the book I wrote earlier this year called GOODBYE MY LOVER to pick out some of my faves!

The book's comprised of some of the best lines and stories that have been sent in. Really any ones included are those which I have deemed funny or noteworthy in some way. The book has illustrations by my wonderful life-long friend Dave Honholt (pictured with me on left) and we're currently looking for a publisher to bring out this humorous little gem.

Any takers? Anyone? Oh well not to worry...We'll get it to the market eventually! :)

Here are a few faves from over the years:

1) You can analyze it until the cow's come home, but it isn't going to change a thing.

2) It's not like if we tried for the rest of our lives, you would get to be better in bed.

3) Me breaking up with you, well it's like childbirth. Sure it hurts like hell for a while, but then you'll forget the pain completely when you find someone else to make you happy.

4) I have A.D.D. and just can't stay interested in things for very long.

5) How will I know I want to spend the next fifty years with you unless I date other people?

Tune into the show tomorrow to hear a few more or check out the break-up lines on the site.

WWW CONNECTS

I love the idea of bringing people together...of connecting "all walks of life" in one space (e.g SYBD is founded on it) and so when reading one of the e-groups I am a member of - I just came across this posted NYT piece which I found interesting. Maybe you will too...?

Well I better get back to it - I am far too easily sidetracked on this WWW...

INTRODUCING KENNY ELLIOT,...

2008-09-13T04:17:00.000-07:00

KEN-NING AROUND

I've just created my first NING to promote my dear friend KENNY ELLIOT'S music. As my family, friends and loyal blog readers will know, I met Ken whilst doing my radio show for RADIO SIX INTERNATIONAL earlier this year. In January he sent me in some lovely tunes to play for my show. I, immediately, loved his voice (swoon) from the get-go, and subsequently appointed myself his manager (he had no say in the manner) soon after. :)

So, slowly this year, we've been honing in on an ACTION PLAN and this Ning is the beginning of it. He's gradually put together a set of 10-14 tracks which he'll be playing LIVE in Glasgow in the coming months. (Watch this space).

Perhaps even more importantly, we're getting him into the studio in the next month or so to begin recordings of his debut album. I hope some of you will consider singing up to be a part of this little NING of ours. It's my first attempt at a NING and I could use the support. WE could use it.

Meanwhile, I plan to be filming Kenny playing all the tracks in a mock-concert-for-one later. I believe he has a gift in that beautiful voice and thus am doing my bit to promote it.

Join the NING if you would....

A BLOOPER - FOR FUN

Just a little teaser here - which cracks me up. This was done a few weeks back as he was messing about on a strange guitar with a new song called "Just Give It Time",...

Find more videos like this on Kenny Elliot

Anyhoo - thanks for your time. I appreciate it. Now I have to get to some work....before more play later!

ONCE UPON A TIME

2008-09-12T08:31:00.000-07:00

CORRUPT IPOD?

Today I got up and out the door first thing this morning. It was a tube ride to Buchanan Street to visit the Apple Store. You see, I have about 20,000 songs in iTunes on my PC and a 40GB old iPod which started pitching a hissy fit some months back when I'd try to sync it.

So I decided to try to sync it with my MacBook and quelle suprise - it worked. The trouble is there are only about 2000 songs on this here MacBook. Annoying. I'd done all the resets they suggest on the Support at Apple - to no avail. I thought they might be able to do something different if I went in...but alas after waiting 20 minutes (even though I was #1 on the list), the girl just did what I did at home already. So it was a pointless trip.

Now I'll just have to sync it to my Mac again - I guess. Or fork out the dough and buy a new iPod TOUCH?

NOT TO0 SKINNY JEANS

While I was in town, I figured I may as well have a browse to search for some "skinny" jeans. Is there an age limit at which you shouldn't be wearing such things? Have I passed it? Maybe, but I went and bought some anyway. The trouble is - I ended up buying size 18. That's HUGE - especially since I am normally a UK 14 (that's US 12). Very disappointing given all the exercise I am doing of late :(

Anyway - who cares about weight? Surely it must be like "age" and really "just a number" right?

FREE - SIMPLE MINDS

After picking up my bargain, not-too-skinnny black jeans - I popped into TESCO METRO for some Tetley Decaf (I've finally acquired a taste for it!) and noticed that with today's DAILY MAIL they're giving away free copies of ONCE UPON A TIME - Simple Minds' wonderful CD from 1985 (Go Class of '85!).

Brings back fond memories of my early interning days at RCA/A&M/ARISTA in San Francisco! I worked (for free) at the label - but did get paid in vinyl and posters and concert tickets - (hence Simple Minds was one of the bands I have quite an 'extensive' collection of promos for). From that era, I also have lots of classic BLUE NILE and THOMPSON TWINS goodies too.

I think most are still in my Pop's pad or storage. Each time I visit him - I threaten to sell this stuff on eBay and each time I find an "excuse" not to.

Here is a classic from the record - "Sanctify Yourself"

Ironically, there's a chapter in my autobiography called "The Year I only kissed Jim Kerr". You'll need to read my autobiography to find out what my short-lived experience was like working for Jim and Co (a few years ago). 'Can't give everything away for free now can I?

Enjoy the classic 80s track anyway. I wonder where that "Sanctify Yourself" video was shot. There's a man I know who's just the person to ask that question. He's a walking SM encyclopedia called Iain Condie from Stirling...now living in New Jersey after meeting his (now wife) Jackie on simpleminds.com. So they're not just a band - they're matchmakers too. Nice one. Word up to the 'Minds.

Well I have to do some real work. I've played hooky for the entire day so enough skiving now.

MUSIC TO MY EARS...

2008-09-11T10:55:00.000-07:00

SONGS FOR THE DUMPED

Earlier today, I got an email from RACHEL YAMAGATA's mailing list...so I went and read her site, then the inspiration to look up SUSIE SUH - wondering when her second CD will be coming out (no idea).

At the bottom of the page on Amazon though, it lists "other people who have bought Susie bought..." and it showed A FINE FRENZY...which I thought was a coinkydink...as I came across that CD when going through CDs to give away. I gave a backpack away to my friend "A" today...and hoped to hell it wasn't among them! Thankfully it wasn't. 'Not sure what stopped me from throwing it in the backpack to give to him, but here it is on my desk...

And as such, today, I ended up playing the song "Almost Lover" a zillion times...and then went to YouTube to watch the video. (Thanks Kenneth for locating it)...

The lead girl reminds me of my niece Jessie. She's lovely, isn't she? The singer of A FINE FRENZY I mean, not my niece Jessie, (unless you know Jess too? then I'm sure you'd agree).

Anyway it was that song that inspired today's AMAZON DUMPED ANTHEMS playlist of "break up" tracks that are more mellow in nature..."Mellow Mix of Melancholy Chix" - as it were. See right.

Buy A FINE FRENZY at Amazon UK or on Amazon US. I highly recommend "Almost Lover",...(naturally).

Anyway - I'll just keep on making up these playlists as the mood hits. I think we need some angry-guy tracks next time though, what do you think? Bit of BEN FOLDS FIVE - "Song For the Dumped" "give me money back, you bitch" :)

Anyway my tummy is screaming for food...and my eyes are sore from looking at the screen for so long....More soon!

MY NEW BLOG

2008-09-10T06:25:00.000-07:00

In an effort to separate my "work" and my "play" - I've set up this new blog to pontificate about whatever strikes a cord.

Of course lately work and play have been somewhat merged...I've been awash with ideas of how to better the SITE so it has basically been weeks of getting my head down and getting ideas down on pages, and enlisting the help of a wonderful "Master Mind" team of people.

Tonight, I am attending a seminar put on by Scotland's Business Gateway. It's a "new start" type seminar and I am not-so-new, but since the site's always been run like a hobby, I feel like I am a brand new business!

Yesterday I attended a really useful one on CA$HFLOW which was good. I learned a fair bit and will apply the principles in daily business life.

WACKY NIGHT

Last night Ross and I went to see THE WACKNESS which for some reason I keep calling "The Wackyness" and frankly it was pretty "whack" to be honest. I kept finding my mind wandering to all the other things I need to be doing...That's not a good sign. I go to movies to ex-scape from life not be bored out of my skull. Of course there were some redeeming qualities. The music was funky-fresh. Some of the acting was wonderful...In particular JOSH PECK and of course the Oscar winner BEN KINGSLEY was also wonderful in it over all.

LOVE FILM?

This week's rental on Love Film was the series of NORTHERN EXPOSURE. (Buy from Amazon AMAZON UK or from AMAZON US). So yeah, today at lunch time, I was watching the pilot episode which I have never seen before.

I can't wait to watch the series tonight after the seminar! Though I prefer "MEN IN TREES" - (also set in Alaska) - this series seems like it will also be fun to re-visit!

Excited for the new series of GREY'S ANATOMY which, I believe, kicks off tomorrow night on LIVING! Hooray!

Anyway - that's enough for the first day of my new blog!