One day I told Sye that even I could write a better book than the one I’d just read.
“Why don’t ya?” Sye asked.
I started to write I suddenly had an overwhelming need to tell the stories of the characters that have come to life in my head.
In the video below Stephen King gives advice to those wanting to be a Writer. He says aspiring Writers should read lots and write lots. He also talks about a magic moment after reading a book where you think to yourself: I can do better than this.
I got asked to be a Guest Speaker on the BBC Three’s Free Speech. Free Speech is formatted like Question Time; members of the audience ask questions to a panel of politicians or others involved in politics. Yesterday was the live broadcast to the Nation from Liverpool Hope University. I arrived a few hours before the broadcast with butterflies in my stomach and a buzz of excitement.
I realised once the broadcast had started I realised my vibrant purple shirt made me stand out, more than I had intended to do so. I listened to the questions asked, answers from the panel and opinions of the audience members. The debate lived up when we came to my topic: drugs and alcohol.
Rick Edwards (the Presenter) came to ask about my experience working in the field.
I had been expecting to be introduced differently and to get two minutes of air time. But because the debate had been lively, I knew I had to cut it down. So I said my piece.
It was a thoroughly enjoyable experience and I learnt so much about the TV World. I think I looked good, sounded OK and did well considering it was my first time. If a simliar opportunity comes along in the future, at least I’d be less nervous as I now have some experience. I would like to thank everyone who encouraged me to do it as well as two special ladies for their expertise and advice (they know who they are!).
Obligatory Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on this blog are solely my own and do not express the views or opinions of my employer or any other associated company/organisation.
I’ve set myself a challenge each month aimed at giving me new experiences. February’s challenge was to take a photo everyday. Here’s the photos I snapped:
1st – Coffee.
1st – Servers Down After Powercut.
2nd – Hair Cut.
2nd Time with “The Kids.”
4th – Owe, look what came through the post! Wicked (the musical) tickets!
5th – Snow.
6th – This pretty much somes up my day.
7th – Broadband problems meant I had to buy a landline phone. First time in years that I’ve had a landline!
8th – Went shopping for a Birthday card and saw this #funnycard
9th – Judith’s Birthday Meal.
9th – Clever table display, bought from the 99p Shop.
My iMac finally died.
12th – Ironing as I go.
13th – Traffic :-(.
14th – Unhelpful Siri.
15th – Look at the time! On nights.
17th – Sore feet. Been rushing around on nights.
18th – My plans for the day.
19th – Frost.
20th – Dylan & Russell attention seeking.
22nd – My nephew’s BIG Birthday.
23rd – Easy tea.
24th – A treat.
25th – The obsession with food continues. Omelet and rice.
26th – Smoked far too much today!
27th – Morning inspiration. Coffee before meeting? Why not!
27th – The Sun! Made me feel happier and more positive.
28th – A inspirational wall plaque!
All of these photos were taken with my iPhone 5. I did miss four days, however other days I took more than one photo because of the day’s events.
I really enjoyed this month’s challenge. It helped me to notice the positives in a otherwise dark and gloomy month. I like that the photos also serve as a sort of visual diary. Something I’ll definitely be doing again in the future.
This year I’ve set myself a challenge a month to try something new (see New Experiences for 2013). January’s was to do something that makes you feel uncomfortable. I planned to get semi-naked for a full body massage; although this might not sound like a challenge, is for body conscious me. But in the end, I opted for something that I expected to be a challenge on a much deeper level.
Every year since Alex died, those that knew him come together on his anniversary and set off Chinese Lanterns in his memory. I have always avoided this memorial, the thought of going has always filled me with nausea deep in the pit of my stomach. So I decided that this would be my something uncomfortable and went:
I don’t quite know what I dreaded; but whatever it was the experience wasn’t anything like I had expected. Despite the cold and flakes of snow, I felt warmed with the memories of happier times shared. The experience taught me to be aware of my own preconceptions and reminded me that we are all interconnected to one another.
So next time you are faced with an offer to do something that makes you feel uncomfortable, try saying yes. It might not be as bad as you fear, in fact it could be the complete opposite.
