tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12268495317563883202024-02-22T17:59:39.229+02:00Murees DupéMy imagination is my escape. This blog documents my life, and all it entails. Murees Dupèhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11781339206465690961noreply@blogger.comBlogger752125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226849531756388320.post-56466156172657652832023-04-02T23:29:00.001+02:002023-04-02T23:29:22.787+02:00Not quite myself<p>I have no idea why, but I have not been feeling like myself. Even being in my own skin feels alien. </p><p>The good news is that I still managed to pitch up here instead of going back in my shell. </p><p>I haven't written any fiction yet. But I am doing a psychology Diploma course right now. It is about Jung, and I absolutely love it. I am learning so much about myself, and about concepts that might sound unfamiliar, but are right up my alley. Thoughts and ideas that I have always had, but didn't know there were actual terms for them. Or that they were real. That it wasn't just me who thought about certain things a certain way.</p><p>Jung was a great believer in studying myths and folklore of cultures to understand people, and the psychology of individuals. Each community, or country has their own folklore and myths. This course feels like it belongs in my world. Just like writing does. Both play a vital roll in my true self. </p><p>I am not quite myself. But I am happy I could write this post. Because last year I did one post and this year I have at least two. </p><p>Keep well</p>Murees Dupèhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11781339206465690961noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226849531756388320.post-19646607013396946282023-02-28T22:16:00.001+02:002023-02-28T22:16:09.730+02:00Getting back to being a writer<p>Never in a million years would I have guessed that I would be
here again. That I would have stopped writing again. That I would become an inflexible
salary person. But that is exactly who I am.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Working in the hospitality industry for the past few years
has taken every ounce of physical, creative, and mental strength out of me. I
had to… I needed it, and still need it to survive in that environment.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I merely told myself that I was taking a break. Recharging
my creative well. I had done that. I am still doing that, but still, other than
this post, not much else has been written.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Now I have to fight my way back to creativity and my
writing, or give up. The latter is not an option. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I think the fear of knowing how hard the road had been
before…It terrifies me. Knowing how far away I have drifted from <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">this</i> life.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I have never been much of a quitter. So my fight to make it
back to my true self, writer self, has begun once more. I am truly terrified.
But what do I have to lose, right?</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>Murees Dupèhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11781339206465690961noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226849531756388320.post-81298928532798872182022-06-09T13:23:00.002+02:002022-06-09T13:23:41.953+02:00No more comments for my blog<p> Hi Everyone.</p><p>I hope you are all doing well. It has been a while. My blog has become a ghost town so-to-speak. I am so impressed, and admire all of you bloggers/ writers that have been cotinuously blogging no matter what. You are hardcore. I respect you. </p><p>I however haven't been blogging at all. One post for last year alone . . . I think? That is atrocious. And if you had told me back in 2010 that this blog would've been unattended without a second thought, I wouldn't have believed you. </p><p>As for my current reason for blogging . . . I wanted to make a few changes in my life. I wanted to get back to writing and publishing. It has been such an important part of my life for so long. But because of the long hours, and constant chaotic schedule of my day-job, writing was pushed back, almost completely forgotten about. I wish to change that. </p><p>One of the reasons I stopped blogging is that I felt I had nothing to share. I wasn't publishing new projects. I wasn't writing much, and to be honest, I'm not that interesting a person. </p><p>The other was that returning comments felt more like a burden than fun in the end. And I hated myself for not returning comments. After all, that is how we support each other. <b><u><span style="color: red;">Thus, I have turned off all comments for my blog. </span></u></b> </p><p>My hope is that if I don't have the obligation to return comments, that it may help me blogging again. I sound like a bitch. Apologies . . . I'm only sharing my honest thoughts today. </p><p>I don't know about you, but I miss the times when I could send out blog posts into the void, not knowing who was reading them, or caring what they thougt. It made me feel brave, because I could share thoughts, opinions, and writing I wouldn't otherwise if I knew people were reading my posts. </p><p>If you wish to unfollow me, I understand. No hard feelings. Truthfiully, I have lost touch with almost everyone. It makes me upset, and resent myself because I allowed it to happen. </p><p>In 2018 my depression got to a point that I could no longer function. It got drasticlly worse, and adding Fibromyalgia to the mix . . . I didn't know how to handle it and I was a mess. I still am. I still struggle with both drastically every day. But I want . . . am desperate to do better. </p><p>Thank you for all your support through the years. Just because I am disabling comments on this blog doesn't mean I'm completely cutting ties. My email adress is still available, and I'm active on Instagramm</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Murees Dupèhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11781339206465690961noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226849531756388320.post-28977060027501048702021-07-25T23:22:00.002+02:002021-07-25T23:22:55.013+02:00How is it July already?I can't believe that it is 25 July 2021. According to my blog post history, it's been a year since my last entry? I can't beleive it. Shocking actually. <div><br /></div><div>Blogging clearly hasn't been a priority, which is upseting. But it is not strange since I've felt far removed from my writer dreams and writing ambitions. My heart has just not been in it. But I hope to change that. </div><div><br /></div><div>My family and I are doing well during this crazy times of Covid-19, and shocking politcal turmoil. As South Africans we're used to adapting quite quickly, and just keep moving on. </div><div><br /></div><div>Our Baking Company is doing well. My sisters and I are directors of our company now. We've truly formalized the business, showing we mean business. It's where I spend most of my focus and time. </div><div><br /></div><div>How have all of you been? How have you managed to find the inspration and discipline to keep on blogging over all these years? </div>Murees Dupèhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11781339206465690961noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226849531756388320.post-19623158282287753472020-07-14T14:00:00.001+02:002020-07-14T14:00:03.634+02:00Staying focused<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEiqXf5g3qc068H_AF5sYYkvAaRBlaIEvN6rhi9KpiKcoPCH4qroktrY-PoCINBmiZz8p7AP9p8BqwEv837KKQvFLdBOuSHPwDxQjafSJ0BrjW_3U5xxBOXDnnQU0099f5Wzrg_C4armC5xBL3lujYVlOho690U=s525" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="525" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEiqXf5g3qc068H_AF5sYYkvAaRBlaIEvN6rhi9KpiKcoPCH4qroktrY-PoCINBmiZz8p7AP9p8BqwEv837KKQvFLdBOuSHPwDxQjafSJ0BrjW_3U5xxBOXDnnQU0099f5Wzrg_C4armC5xBL3lujYVlOho690U=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><p class="MsoNormal">Hello my friends. I’ve been doing a lot of writing lately,
as you might know. I’ve actually finished the first book in my Human Nature,
Thriller series. It is a true first draft. It’s ugly, but the bones are there.
I just have to clean it up, a lot. </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I’ve been so excited with this series that I started
immediately with book two. But then, the strangest thing happened, which never
usually happens. I started getting ideas, and scenes for future books of this
series started flooding my mind, and I found myself jumping back and forth
writing scenes from different books. It was like all writing inspiration I’ve
been lacking over the years came rushing back all at once and I went into a
writing frenzy. Sometimes writing 8 hours a day. Losing lots of sleep, but the
writing had to get out of my head. It was flooding my brain and I couldn’t
focus on anything than these books. </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Because my depression and Fibromyalgia (despite which I am
permanently on medication for) plays havoc on my short term memory, I didn’t
want to take the chance I might forget anything so I wrote it down immediately.
Upsetting my nearest and dearest, but I had to get it out. It would play havoc
with my sleep if I didn’t get it out. But I got most of it down. My sister
wanted me to dictate most of my thoughts, and I will do that from now on, but
then I forget the emotions and possible dialogue I had in my mind for a
specific scene. </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">So now I have a half written book here, a few scenes there
and so forth. But I won’t give this flood of inspiration up for anything. The
quiet and isolation of the extreme South African lockdown and that of the world
did wonders for me. It rebooted my brain and made me whole again. It gave me a
reprieve of all the noise (figurative) that I’ve been experiencing over the
years. The human race were all just trying to survive. Nobody focused on war,
or which celebrity was sleeping with whom. People all around could relate what
was going on with one another, as we were all experiencing the same thing. It’s
just such a relief for the mind and soul. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I’ve decided that I’ll try and do such an isolation once or
twice a year. Even if it’s just for a week, or a few days. I just need this to
survive in this crazy over crowded world with all its insanity, and new
technologies popping up all the time, for the long term. I’m deeply
introverted, so this type of Isolation suits me perfectly. Do all my shopping
online and avoid most people all together sounds like a dream.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">How do you recharge your batteries? Does your senses get
overloaded quickly? How do you focus in this noisy world?</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><br /></div>Murees Dupèhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11781339206465690961noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226849531756388320.post-9081318302446248292020-07-07T14:00:00.001+02:002020-07-07T14:00:04.293+02:00Music speaks to my soul<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEhzRUcy5Z_O3i5OjG2bcmBjm5x3cEiWHPEeJD1OTIrr48Y5kf83uIhPwwvzw5cJH01XvH0S3y85GE6vynQw0Iy5_C6F5pREOq5UST2MD3XE5mfYGEeGgGqOToc507wPgTqR-gpK5qgODc-BEmjAYZiONQnBFt8=s470" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="264" data-original-width="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEhzRUcy5Z_O3i5OjG2bcmBjm5x3cEiWHPEeJD1OTIrr48Y5kf83uIhPwwvzw5cJH01XvH0S3y85GE6vynQw0Iy5_C6F5pREOq5UST2MD3XE5mfYGEeGgGqOToc507wPgTqR-gpK5qgODc-BEmjAYZiONQnBFt8=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><p class="MsoNormal">Hey friends. I don’t know if I ever mentioned this little
fact about me, but I love music. I can’t live without it. As in my previous
post, the lockdown had me fall in love with music all over again. For some time
I’ve been so stressed, that during work the thought of playing music to help me
cope, didn’t naturally occur to me. I just though it’s a personal pleasure, I
can’t possibly listen to it when working, like when we are working on orders,
or stocktaking and so forth. I don’t know why I thought that way. I guess it
doesn’t matter anymore. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>But like most things, I like various types of music. From
rock and metal to classical and non-lyrical music. I will listen to most kinds
of music and each moves me in a different way and evokes different kinds of emotions.
These days I need the mood of music to match that of the book I am writing. I
actually did research on which songs were the saddest, so I could write certain
scenes in the book, and it did the trick. I actually created a playlist. On it
were songs like Tears in Heaven by Eric Clapton, Knocking on Heaven’s door by
Bob Dylan, and I’ve always found that most of Johnny Cash’s music is sad, so I
listened to a lot of him. Certain scenes are gruesome and I needed music to get
me in sort of a frenzy, or should I say made me feel bad-ass and for me there’s
nothing like Metallica or Marilyn Manson. So I’ve been enjoying my writing
again.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>Do you listen to music when you write? What kind of music do
you listen to?</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><br /></div>Murees Dupèhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11781339206465690961noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226849531756388320.post-85504427552516689452020-07-01T19:40:00.001+02:002020-07-01T19:41:00.829+02:00Lockdown helped me write<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEh7OuH3roprmnviGepfISvumg9B2_5j9n93IVlchyphenhyphen635H-OaoUq7yPxPiO-mzczcZnzr5HFSAoD2ImT1cyVTYTzafqt0O4JHo_nGt6y6AK8xui0L2IMvf5alt1EubEKgfbs_DQgrA5i0jXw8M0pi8USXAgWPyw=s250" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="226" data-original-width="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEh7OuH3roprmnviGepfISvumg9B2_5j9n93IVlchyphenhyphen635H-OaoUq7yPxPiO-mzczcZnzr5HFSAoD2ImT1cyVTYTzafqt0O4JHo_nGt6y6AK8xui0L2IMvf5alt1EubEKgfbs_DQgrA5i0jXw8M0pi8USXAgWPyw=s2048" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><p class="MsoNormal">During the lockdown in South Africa (Level 5) the country
came to a standstill. The whole world for that matter, as certain countries
were more affected than others at the time. It’s still a crisis over most of
the world, but those 5 weeks, where everything came to a standstill, was the
best thing for me and my brain. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">It sounds like a horrible thing to say. But for me it was as
if I could think clearly. My senses get overloaded very quickly. I actually had
energy for the first time in a longtime. There were less people around.
It was quiet, literally, and figuratively. It felt like I could breathe for the
first time in a long time. That my brain and energy levels could recharge.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">So much so that the writing started to flow, and I could
actually start working on my new series. It will be a series of crime thrillers
focused on catching dangerous serial killers on New Eden. A world where the remaining
humans had to relocate after we killed Earth. It is like nothing I have ever
written before. But it is exciting. I am a huge fan of crime fiction, mystery,
as well as thrillers. I read various genres so it is in my nature to want to
diversify on the genres I write. And these books are where my heart and focus
is right now.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I felt like all was right in the world during that time. I
could focus. My senses were alive again, and able to function as they should.
And pouring my imagination and emotions out on the page. It felt so natural.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">How are you doing?</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><br /></div>Murees Dupèhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11781339206465690961noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226849531756388320.post-72409298488256530832020-04-14T19:58:00.002+02:002020-04-14T19:58:38.756+02:00Look what I bought myself for my birthday<p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fajcV1y28u8/XpX211Q10WI/AAAAAAAAC8s/VYqSkqKaQ-8KWykR0Rb_GhLyQ_VmfjlxgCK4BGAsYHg/birthday%2Bpresents.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1547" data-original-width="2448" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fajcV1y28u8/XpX211Q10WI/AAAAAAAAC8s/VYqSkqKaQ-8KWykR0Rb_GhLyQ_VmfjlxgCK4BGAsYHg/s320/birthday%2Bpresents.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">It is the 19th day of what would have been our 21 day
lockdown. The South African lockdown has been extended for another 2 weeks,
until the end of April. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I realize that the world is going crazy and that everyone is
scared. But all that you can control is how you and your family stay safe. I’m
not going to lie. Every time I leave the house I am scared I might get
infected, or worse, pick up Covid-19 and bring it home for my family as a
present. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">But I think there is enough crazy going on. We need some new
and fun things to do. Well, I’ve been doing a lot of reading. I bought myself
these for my birthday.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K48pHM1qkBo/XpX3FW7QR1I/AAAAAAAAC88/gkljvd-Gw3IefZFlQiDGxg38OoEBZXV9gCK4BGAsYHg/eaters%2Bof%2Bthe%2Bdead.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2384" data-original-width="1824" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K48pHM1qkBo/XpX3FW7QR1I/AAAAAAAAC88/gkljvd-Gw3IefZFlQiDGxg38OoEBZXV9gCK4BGAsYHg/s320/eaters%2Bof%2Bthe%2Bdead.jpg" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><u>Eaters of the Dead by Michael Crichton</u></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I enjoyed this book so much. I enjoy reading about history and
mythology, and this book is about the documented tales of Ibn Fadlan as taken from
his manuscript. It starts a bit slow but it is very exciting. This book was
worth every penny. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I became obsessed with finding this book after watching 13th
warrior. I really enjoyed this movie, and still do. Michael Crichton
disapproved of the film version, so obviously I wanted to read his original.
Both the book and movie are so enjoyable. Give me anything about Vikings and I’m
happy. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I have been looking for a used copy of this book for more
than 10 years. I tried to purchase a new one for the past 5 years, but the
bookshops and online stores in South Africa couldn’t get me one. So I finally
bought a copy from Amazon. The only reason I never buy from Amazon is because
how expensive shipping is. It is almost the same price as the actual product.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0nu7qVH4PZwt74cIOQD2TMg1daiEyUL6r3ynO2PfAfxQ2b24rohoD9slXpFMxT0qmEDyifMHXw4Zub_6M9pdDmh97PCkXOT-g_SehNDb7QZEQCxlgXvRkXdta0uEjl6e_f49PxXiMIL4/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2688" data-original-width="1963" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0nu7qVH4PZwt74cIOQD2TMg1daiEyUL6r3ynO2PfAfxQ2b24rohoD9slXpFMxT0qmEDyifMHXw4Zub_6M9pdDmh97PCkXOT-g_SehNDb7QZEQCxlgXvRkXdta0uEjl6e_f49PxXiMIL4/s320/Milk+and+honey.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <u><b>Milk and Honey by Rupi Kaur</b></u></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">There is such honesty and truth in her work. So much of her
experiences I can relate to. If you don’t mind digging deep into your own soul
and having her words take you on a journey, then please do try this one. Loved
it.</p>
<blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><o:p> </o:p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqBR9uEaeKfZkQRfXFJ4LU5sPMevcQdSXv2Zfd_cuxeUYLFvFyQytEbPW2Eyg-B6Q1YFAYCZhzk4B9tnxSFBkUEE8wIzFpxIQzJY4VjPtGp3Vjgkv5-JQc6wlOmqMbtUxLKmEabcgIXpU/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2428" data-original-width="1835" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqBR9uEaeKfZkQRfXFJ4LU5sPMevcQdSXv2Zfd_cuxeUYLFvFyQytEbPW2Eyg-B6Q1YFAYCZhzk4B9tnxSFBkUEE8wIzFpxIQzJY4VjPtGp3Vjgkv5-JQc6wlOmqMbtUxLKmEabcgIXpU/s320/The+sun+and+her+flowers.jpg" /></a></p></blockquote><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><u><b>The Sun and her Flowers by Rupi Kaur</b></u></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I was first introduced to Rupi’s poetry by my cousin. She
had lent me The Sun and her Flowers a few years ago, and I loved Rupi’s way
with words and her illustrations. When I finally had the money I just had to
buy my own copy. Trust me, her words are so powerful. Loved this one too.<o:p></o:p></p><br />Murees Dupèhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11781339206465690961noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226849531756388320.post-9669957705904603552020-03-19T19:43:00.000+02:002020-03-19T19:43:23.163+02:00New Writing DeskThis post is a bit late. But I wanted to share my Christmas/ Birthday gift from my brother and his wife.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAamUXYjhjd0yfNf8qV4RXcpL6j3tVZoNsB385f8NvlIRIsiAwCzxLKTOKEzY0IvK-n72XUknQkVpP_Ue4UbqkuQnKvXj1kqRqLMBYFE5KeRCwy2jXKSpL3eRJ1ffAZRELe5rB1xMy_M4/s1600/IMG_20200306_223258.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAamUXYjhjd0yfNf8qV4RXcpL6j3tVZoNsB385f8NvlIRIsiAwCzxLKTOKEzY0IvK-n72XUknQkVpP_Ue4UbqkuQnKvXj1kqRqLMBYFE5KeRCwy2jXKSpL3eRJ1ffAZRELe5rB1xMy_M4/s320/IMG_20200306_223258.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This is my new writing desk, and what I like is that there is space for me to place my laptop and my notes. I don't know about you, but I never seem to have enough space when I'm writing. It helps that there are two small shelves for storage.<br />
<br />
So dear friends. What is your writing space like, and do you always lack space when actually writing?Murees Dupèhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11781339206465690961noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226849531756388320.post-35750347491827351682020-02-24T22:38:00.001+02:002020-02-24T22:38:26.570+02:00The Executioner is now available<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WFJeVJgJuys/XlQeHjf01GI/AAAAAAAAC6E/AvUPBxx_aKAQuSuZDp0SLZhXcZdr0tYOgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/the%2Bexecutioner%2Bfinal%2Bcover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WFJeVJgJuys/XlQeHjf01GI/AAAAAAAAC6E/AvUPBxx_aKAQuSuZDp0SLZhXcZdr0tYOgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/the%2Bexecutioner%2Bfinal%2Bcover.jpg" width="211" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It’s here! It’s here! It’s finally here!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The Executioner is now available at all your
major e-book stores. Here are just a few links: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Executioner-Thelum-Book-2-ebook/dp/B084Z4KJ3M/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2G3M0ZOOP40LE&keywords=murees+dup%C3%A9&qid=1582485639&s=digital-text&sprefix=murees%2Cdigital-text%2C613&sr=1-1" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Amazon</span></a> * <span style="color: blue;"><a href="https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1005540" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Smashwords</span></a> </span>* <a href="https://books2read.com/u/bQRJvw" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Other</span></a> </span></span><br />
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It only took me five years to get here. There were times I really doubted myself, and my writing ability, but this fantastic blogging community always cheered me on, and believed in me. <b>Thank you</b>, my friends.</span></span><br />
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">As previously discussed, I won't be doing all the marketing I did last time. Aside for showing off my books one my social media pages, I'm not going to bother with much else. I'm just going to focus on my next book. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<u style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; text-align: left;"><b>The Executioner</b></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The past is never too far behind, or as innocent as it may
seem.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Claire’s past is rearing its ugly head and threatening her
life. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Alex has a love from his past who might wreck his future. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">New challenges are thrown their way can end both their
lives, and that of those they love.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuu76pvfpeMO1c5Ju3ixcwARdDF2LxhAPe2r2m6gJdlwuQiYx50vmgQMGDVMxE75INff4KX6poPYe07g-dhOQIOgEcGVmzsAppnVwasf_kesKY1N62o_x9lBGzxKzSvNrmT1pmMxr-xFE/s1600/modified+picture3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1416" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuu76pvfpeMO1c5Ju3ixcwARdDF2LxhAPe2r2m6gJdlwuQiYx50vmgQMGDVMxE75INff4KX6poPYe07g-dhOQIOgEcGVmzsAppnVwasf_kesKY1N62o_x9lBGzxKzSvNrmT1pmMxr-xFE/s320/modified+picture3.jpg" width="281" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Most writers always have such nice custom images of their books. So I thought I would give it a try. </span></div>
Murees Dupèhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11781339206465690961noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226849531756388320.post-56741667178173865712020-02-04T19:29:00.000+02:002020-02-04T19:29:25.380+02:00Another Angel Departs<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVZ4bAfsIXYSawG2VK38Ff6VIqnrSq5D86K7ME06G9_ZdLSAYOsCmvAwweGeA_N-k9iTGJsO1zclHVzEMEZyz8U7lFDcljTgViacJBg0L_1LPdPUjJg7k0KhLvGMzd5YYfJPxetsxhE2k/s1600/Abby+blog+picture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="273" data-original-width="349" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVZ4bAfsIXYSawG2VK38Ff6VIqnrSq5D86K7ME06G9_ZdLSAYOsCmvAwweGeA_N-k9iTGJsO1zclHVzEMEZyz8U7lFDcljTgViacJBg0L_1LPdPUjJg7k0KhLvGMzd5YYfJPxetsxhE2k/s320/Abby+blog+picture.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On 10 January 2020 another one of my baby’s left this world.
Her name was Abby and she was only a few months away from turning 13 years old.
She was a beautiful soul, and my best friend. Even though she was my sister’s
dog, I helped raise her since she was a pup, and helped take care of her until her dying day. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As
you know, I always talked about being a full-time babysitter, not just for
Abby, but my brother’s dog, as well as my own. I big hole is left in our
hearts. She had such a big personality, and everyone who met her couldn’t help
but love Abby. She was just the most lovable character. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I will love you always.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Murees Dupèhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11781339206465690961noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226849531756388320.post-34257902956491175132020-01-28T21:30:00.000+02:002020-01-28T21:30:27.464+02:00The Executioner Coming Soon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5a5cO1zZC-pMOr5aN4BQRz0Yl9UvfeXYhUYp51kk6Mj2-MsQbxMJaJhx9nwZyVBoDaSSvP9apFIWnwBTgueTGP862SFCBXpzxYJeJoj1MQirN5sDhnjiXU8ElrFxrrMASuZ11O6jwpUk/s1600/the+executioner+final+cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5a5cO1zZC-pMOr5aN4BQRz0Yl9UvfeXYhUYp51kk6Mj2-MsQbxMJaJhx9nwZyVBoDaSSvP9apFIWnwBTgueTGP862SFCBXpzxYJeJoj1MQirN5sDhnjiXU8ElrFxrrMASuZ11O6jwpUk/s320/the+executioner+final+cover.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
I finished the editing of my second book in my Thelum Series. Finally! Now its just the formatting, and other technical things that needs to be done. I have set the publish date for February 2020.<br />
<br />
I have been tinkering on this book for 5 years, and its time I moved on. I'm ready.Murees Dupèhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11781339206465690961noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226849531756388320.post-14371195184013686302019-10-09T20:42:00.000+02:002019-10-09T20:42:19.104+02:00October Begins<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Hello Friends. I did it. I finished my first round of edits from my editor. It wasn’t as bad. I just had to put my head down and get
it done. Of course afterwards I chastised myself for not finishing it sooner.
But oh well. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don’t know about you, but I’ve been getting the strangest
comments on my blog. People using the comments section to advertise their own
site, or products. At some point it was one or two weird comments a day. Every
time I deleted one spammy comment another would pop up again. So I activated
comment moderation. So I get to choose which comments get published, and not.
It is a relief actually, and so easy. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The day job has been keeping me busy, which is why I haven’t
been around. A smart person would start writing posts in advance and scheduling
them. Clearly I’m not smart (he he).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So have a good week. What is new with you?<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Murees Dupèhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11781339206465690961noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226849531756388320.post-8639545195781089852019-08-19T14:00:00.000+02:002019-08-19T14:00:06.760+02:00Moving, but not as fast, and sabotage<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
I didn’t mention this before, but I got my manuscript back
from my editor In June. I was so excited. I only asked for copy editing
this time. And my brilliant editor, <a href="http://dumpedfirstwife.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Janie Goltz</a>, did an excellent job. I’m
actually embarrassed about the simple mistakes she had to keep correcting me
on. Things like, using British English, along with American English in the same
manuscript. And not using the same spelling throughout.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
However, I have had this bad habit of not pushing through
the corrections as fast as I should. I could have worked through the entire
book in a week. But I’m taking it slowly. I think I’m scared of publishing,
and now I am sabotaging myself again. I also decided to read my manuscript as I
was applying the change, and immediately had the urge to start tinkering with the manuscript again. I didn’t think it was good
enough. I had simply deleted one sentence on page 3, and stopped myself from
reading the rest of the manuscript. I had done the best I could before submitting
it to my editor. But for some reason, as I was working on applying the changes,
I almost gave in to bad habits again. Like rewriting certain scenes,
and so forth. I’m not doing it this time. Not again. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I could make a quick search and replace all similar words. But I really want to take my time with it. Make one change at a time. Though I won't lie. I'm frustrating myself. And I know I have to start pushing, and motivating myself.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Why is it you think that we keep wanting to write the same
book over and over, and then never moving on to the next book? Or is this problem just me?<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Murees Dupèhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11781339206465690961noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226849531756388320.post-47061499218272347092019-07-02T19:11:00.000+02:002019-07-02T19:11:01.906+02:00Angry at Social Media<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span lang="EN-ZA"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcPKs-5UZSG9NDg83Ns1-1XzysCBjpR-v0dh7VCZp6LV3Uuq6XiCaE5qMLQ3_QAb_5b81dicD8X6oqf6JV8i8iWRRCqIMbHZRK3et3U7OM2LBtVtVUtwgWELnyWVwVphPBLje1IvU1d7Y/s1600/crash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="750" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcPKs-5UZSG9NDg83Ns1-1XzysCBjpR-v0dh7VCZp6LV3Uuq6XiCaE5qMLQ3_QAb_5b81dicD8X6oqf6JV8i8iWRRCqIMbHZRK3et3U7OM2LBtVtVUtwgWELnyWVwVphPBLje1IvU1d7Y/s320/crash.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span lang="EN-ZA">When it comes to social media, I am addicted. Or at
least I was. I don’t really do Facebook, unless I have to share news about my
books, or something I am working on. Twitter not so much either. Pinterest;
Sure, for research. Especially about items, or lifestyles, I will never be able
to afford. Instagram is my social media of choice at the moment. You can say so
much with just a picture, and a short description bellow, or not. Easy, peasy.
And of course, I am getting back to blogging.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span lang="EN-ZA">But I have come to really hate social media. 20th of
June my Chef sister and I were in a car accident, on our way to make a
delivery. We are okay. We both have whiplash, and of course our bodies hurt,
and we are a bit black and blue. But what really bothered me, was that after we
pushed away the airbags, and I was checking on my sister, I saw people crowd
around the broken up car to take photos. Of the car, of us . . . It was perverse.
Such a violation of privacy. My sister was unconscious for a while, and people
were taking photos, and making videos, as I tried to wake her, and just find
out how badly she was hurt. </span>Nobody called for help, or the police. They just stood
there. I had to call for help myself, even though I asked for someone to call
the police.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span lang="EN-ZA">Have we as people become so desensitized to trauma, or
human life, and suffering that we just don’t care about anything, or anyone
else anymore? Is privacy, and compassion truly a thing of the past?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span lang="EN-ZA">Not for me. I still try to be a descent person. I
don’t live my life through a lens. I sometimes share certain aspects of my
life, yes, but I decide which, and it’s about my author self. I don’t have any
social media profiles for myself (personally), but the writer part of me does.
I don’t do it for attention, even though I do get an adrenaline rush every time
someone leaves a comment, or likes something I said (wrote).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span lang="EN-ZA">I started using various social media platforms to
spread word of my writing, and book. For business purposes (wink-wink) However,
these days I don’t have much authorly news to share, so I mostly read what
others are posting, and sharing. Cute cat/ dog videos. Nice quotes. The
funnier, the better. Also, articles about archaeological finds . . . Stuff like
that.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span lang="EN-ZA">But I do fear that I have become so addicted to those
daily funnies, that I will become one of those people that forget to be human.
Who walk around texting without looking up, or to see where they are going.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span lang="EN-ZA">I have wanted to close my Facebook account many times,
but I have made a few fellow South African friends that want to know about when
I am publishing again, wanting to buy the next book, and so forth. Facebook is
their social media of choice. So I don’t want to lose the small audience I have
built there. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span lang="EN-ZA">Aside for blogging, I’m angry at social media. I will
look, but not participate for a while. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span lang="EN-ZA">How do you feel about social media? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />Murees Dupèhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11781339206465690961noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226849531756388320.post-26890253077298699262019-05-29T20:55:00.001+02:002019-05-29T20:56:02.339+02:00Finding a routine<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 15.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-line-height-rule: exactly;">
It is the end of May, and I can’t believe
that we are halfway through the year. It has definitely just flown by. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 15.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-line-height-rule: exactly;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 15.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-line-height-rule: exactly;">
My current work in progress is going well.
I am enjoying my writing so much. I won’t lie, I’m still struggling to get a
proper routine, or to write regularly. As I previously mentioned, I work for my
sister in her Artisanal baking/ food business. So the hours are long, and the
work is hard. So sometimes I’m too tired to do much when I’m done working. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 15.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-line-height-rule: exactly;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 15.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-line-height-rule: exactly;">
But I think that is the struggle with all
creatives. You have to pay the bills, as well as be true to your creative
passion. So I write when I can, and make the best of that time. Some of us just
don’t get to have the luxury of a routine. I know I don’t. But I fight to make
time, and use it well. Everyone's life and circumstances are just different. I think I prefer not having a specific routine.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 15.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-line-height-rule: exactly;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 15.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-line-height-rule: exactly;">
Lately I’ve been enjoying the luxury of
Netflix. I have found that it really helps me unwind. These days I love
those corny movies, that make you laugh, and sometimes think the acting is
questionable, but my brain finds it stimulating. I can just watch one, or two,
and I’m relaxed. The stress of the day forgotten. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 15.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-line-height-rule: exactly;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 15.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-line-height-rule: exactly;">
So, how are you doing? Are you ready for
the coming month?<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Murees Dupèhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11781339206465690961noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226849531756388320.post-83758929871764504592019-05-15T21:55:00.001+02:002019-05-15T21:55:09.204+02:00Change can be scary, but necessary<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://media.giphy.com/media/zxxXYJqTlpBnO/giphy.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="270" data-original-width="500" height="215" src="https://media.giphy.com/media/zxxXYJqTlpBnO/giphy.gif" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-ZA" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-ZA;">I’ve always
been the kind of person that ran away from change. It was too hard to adapt. To
learn something new. Or navigate around something new. The newest thing I
changed was that I ended my Newsletter. Nobody was interested, and, I share all
the info on my blog as well. So if future readers want to find out about new
books, they can check the tabs in my blog, or sign up for new blog posts to be
delivered in their inbox. So it serves the same purpose of the newsletter. I
only did it in the first place because all the experts online recommended it. I
no longer follow expert advice. I just do my own thing. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-ZA" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-ZA;">I also
changed my writing process. I’m no longer so stressed about my writing. I just
go with it. Also, I care more about the punctuation, and spelling errors.
Things that would drive me insane if I were reading a book. It’s hard to let go
of this type of control. I always have this tendency to want to make everything
perfect. Since I stopped the process of constantly rewriting every book over
and over, I’ve become a lot less stressed, and I’m actually enjoying my writing again. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Because of my taxing, tough day job, I’ve started to worry
that I couldn’t write everyday. All the experts and writing advice suggests you
write everyday. That you set a certain word count for everyday. Unfortunately, I
no longer have that luxury. I write whenever I can. And I make good progress.
So write in however manner you want, or that suits your lifestyle. It’s not a
one fits all thing. Not at all. We are all artists. And every artist has their
own quirks, and ways to express themselves, let alone their working processes.
So you do what makes you happy.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So that is it from me. Always stay the way you are. If you
make changes, do it for yourself, and not because others tell you to.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Murees Dupèhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11781339206465690961noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226849531756388320.post-76350075369831420602019-04-25T15:36:00.001+02:002019-04-25T15:37:56.385+02:00Genre Confusion … Anybody?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXXApnE7jr1T8GF51bmuSlKY6Z6FEY3lH54fquvzMt8ahm0EmmCE7WwSDSWYkgPq3skOtXYl9GXTsHCq4LscxjuBUrrKEdJaG2Cy6nDwY2QqCKibjbIjdNvLEC2n_3H2sHdrvnOKXUBJQ/s1600/Genre+confusion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="637" data-original-width="850" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXXApnE7jr1T8GF51bmuSlKY6Z6FEY3lH54fquvzMt8ahm0EmmCE7WwSDSWYkgPq3skOtXYl9GXTsHCq4LscxjuBUrrKEdJaG2Cy6nDwY2QqCKibjbIjdNvLEC2n_3H2sHdrvnOKXUBJQ/s400/Genre+confusion.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Is it just me, or can deciding what genre your story falls
into be maddening, even super complicated? When I had to submit queries to
agents for my first book, I had to say which genre it fell into. But I was between
genres. It wasn’t completely a romance, and it wasn’t an out-and-out fantasy
novel. So I used to submit it under romance, just to play it safe. As I knew the
fantasy genre was hard to get into. And I didn’t think I was good enough at the
time to classify it as fantasy.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am working on a new project, which will be unnamed, in
case I jinx myself. But once again, I have no idea what (if I publish it) genre
I would place it in. Same goes for the short story I just finished. I read up
all the genres, but it doesn’t quite sound like one or the other. I tend to unconsciously
mash-up genres. Its not my fault publishing platforms want to put every piece
of writing into a perfect box. So after writing your masterpiece (which is a feat in itself), you have to
know what genre your work falls into. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Lately this has happened to me a lot. Whenever someone finds out I’m a writer:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“<b>What is your new story about</b>?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Me; “<span style="color: #cc0000;">Uhm<span style="font-family: "courier new";">…</span></span>” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is the point in which I ramble on about the synopsis. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“<b>What kind of writer are you?</b>”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Me: <span style="color: #cc0000;">Crickets are singing.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“<b>I mean, what genre do you write in?</b>”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Me: “<span style="color: #cc0000;">Uhm.</span>”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You see my dilemma. My latest response is, “<span style="color: #cc0000;">I write fiction.</span>”
Why is it that people want to know? Immediately after that, I quickly try and make the point that I don’t
know super famous writers like J.K. Rowling, and Stephen King personally. For some strange
reason non-writers think we writers all know each other in some secret way.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What do you guys do to help you determine in what genre you
write, or which genre your story belongs to? Is there a magic trick? Or is it
just my lack of experience showing, and I should read more?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Just something I have been pondering.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Murees Dupèhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11781339206465690961noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226849531756388320.post-11241356438642411792019-03-10T19:28:00.000+02:002019-03-10T19:28:19.022+02:00Mystery Woman (my first short story)<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m a woman of my word. The past month I had been busy writing a short story, named Mystery Woman. In truth, it took me about a month to get it down. It’s the first time I’ve actually written in the third person. I’ve always favored first person point of view. It’s always just been the type of reading style I favored. So, why not write in it as well. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To make sure I understand the short story format, and how it really should work, I’ve been reading shorter pieces. It is far harder for me to write than longer pieces. You have to be a lot sharper with your descriptions, and watch adding unnecessary words. Fluff, so to speak. I ended up just under a 1000 words. Halfway through, I found myself trying to make the piece longer. But nothing I added made the story better. So I decided to keep it as is, even if it is really short. I guess for a first attempt it wasn’t so bad. Or for someone that hasn’t written in a long time, it is a victory. But it felt good actually writing something new. But aside for pitching it to magazines, or online media (which I didn’t want to do at all), I can’t really sell it by itself, like I wanted. Not unless I put it with one of the other short stories I plan to write. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<a href="https://media.giphy.com/media/pa37AAGzKXoek/giphy.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="264" data-original-width="350" height="241" src="https://media.giphy.com/media/pa37AAGzKXoek/giphy.gif" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: left;">
I know I’m taking the fun out of it. Trying to think of how to sell it, and where. It really is a struggle to put that side of thinking away for now. But I am trying. Writing this short story made me so happy. It reminded me of why I fell in love with writing to begin with. <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: left;">
So, 4 more short stories to go (a personal goal I set for myself). The Executioner (book 2 in the Thelum series) is with my amazing editor. And I hope to publish it this year as well. <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: left;">
So, if you just write 700 words for the month, it is something. Don’t sell yourself short.</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Murees Dupèhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11781339206465690961noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226849531756388320.post-8033168511559659602019-02-13T12:59:00.001+02:002019-02-14T14:12:30.278+02:00My brain hurts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://media.giphy.com/media/NWg7M1VlT101W/giphy.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="278" data-original-width="500" height="177" src="https://media.giphy.com/media/NWg7M1VlT101W/giphy.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
The past few days I’ve been feeling like I have a giant hangover. My brain feels the way I do after I try to exercise after a few months of inactivity. You know, when you end up tasting your lung? <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
I started writing again. I started on a short story. One of my goals is to indie publish at least five short stories this year. As you will recall, I intend for this year to be the year of productivity. And I meant it.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
In 2015 I would’ve told you I could easily write over 100 000 words a year, if not more. I was by no means fast, but I had those days where I would hit large word counts. So, being as cocky as I could be, I took my laptop and thought, “I can knock out a short story in one day.” How did it go? Well, it took me 2 hours to write 700 words, and I felt exhausted. I went to sleep that night, and I probably had 12 hours of sleep. No kidding.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
Seriously people. I haven’t written anything new since mid 2016, I think. Of course I don’t count emails and blog posts. It was excruciating building up to those 700 words. Of course I deleted a lot of sentences as I wrote, because they just made no sense, literally. My words were written out of order. And no, I wasn’t drunk. It was just a mess. My mind was a mess. I just couldn’t think properly.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://media.giphy.com/media/o4QVl2bkZwhfa/giphy.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="348" data-original-width="500" height="222" src="https://media.giphy.com/media/o4QVl2bkZwhfa/giphy.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
I respect the hell out of all of you who keep writing even if you don’t publish. All of you that write no matter what happens in your lives. All of you that show up to finish that book, or short story, or those awesome flash fiction pieces that take so much thought, and genius to plan and write. You guys are truly hardcore, and I hope to be like you when I grow up.<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
I wrote a bit last night, while we had a power outage. I wrote about 2000 words in two and a half hours. I really pushed myself. Because I know I should be able to write at least 5000 words in one week. I Used to be able to. I mean, if I really really push myself. Today I feel like I had attended a rock concert, while downing half a bottle of brandy. My head is not my friend. My body is lethargic. Don’t get me wrong, I love rock and metal. Just not when my head feels like someone is playing a drum solo inside my skull.<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
So believe it or not, one can make your brain lazy. I know I sure did. My brain’s feeling like someone that has never used it in their life. <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
I’m planning to write a bit everyday. Even if it’s just an email. I have to get my brain fit. I had no idea how bad I had allowed things to get. But no matter, I am soldiering on. <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
Have you ever felt like your brain is lazy and slow? Even a bit jumbled?<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: red;">P.S</span>. I downloaded one of those word games on my phone. They give you letters and you have to figure out what they spell, and even build new words from the given letters? I got caught out the other day, because I couldn’t figure out the last outstanding word spelled NET. <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
I know, I know. Pathetic. <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Murees Dupèhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11781339206465690961noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226849531756388320.post-70441571378817676282019-02-04T20:49:00.000+02:002019-02-14T14:13:00.783+02:00This is the year<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-li9q7PAb9is/XFiIiglI7QI/AAAAAAAACTQ/oVuYq-LPY6Awbe4liWxb9r1vWKYrumfsQCLcBGAs/s1600/diesel3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="394" data-original-width="311" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-li9q7PAb9is/XFiIiglI7QI/AAAAAAAACTQ/oVuYq-LPY6Awbe4liWxb9r1vWKYrumfsQCLcBGAs/s320/diesel3.jpg" width="252" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Diesel keeping guard</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Finding inspiration has been hard for me for a while now.
Not just in terms of writing, but life in general. Even though I’m still
grieving for Diesel, I want to blog more. I want to write more. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Diesel had such a love for life. He was always upbeat, which
is the exact opposite of me, most days. He was very aware how unique his personality was, and he had a strong rebellious streak.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RzrF_VwaMQg/XFiIXeadN0I/AAAAAAAACTM/7iYpcJcqzfMZVU4kBJD6qrRcWyWTFh_DACLcBGAs/s1600/diesel2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="327" data-original-width="604" height="173" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RzrF_VwaMQg/XFiIXeadN0I/AAAAAAAACTM/7iYpcJcqzfMZVU4kBJD6qrRcWyWTFh_DACLcBGAs/s320/diesel2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Diesel taking over my bed</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
So now I live and write for him. He taught me to live life
on my terms. And I’ve started saying no to opportunities, and traditions that
don’t work for me. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don’t care what else falls my way, 2019 is the year I stop
making excuses. The year I start being more productive. I’ve already finished
up the Executioner (book 2 in my Thelum Series), and still hope to publish it this year. Also, I want to indie publish at least 5 short stories this year. You are more than welcome to hold
me accountable. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you want, you can sign up to my <a href="http://eepurl.com/bNb-n1" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;"><b>newsletter</b></span></a> to be in-the-know about my new releases, and such. Since the new personal information law
last year, I had to delete everyone that had previously signed up. But of course
I will make announcements on here too. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So, you might be seeing me around here more often. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What are your plans for 2019?<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Murees Dupèhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11781339206465690961noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226849531756388320.post-52038511491602652112018-12-12T21:58:00.000+02:002018-12-12T21:58:19.355+02:00Not such a festive season<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wK9rc8gcrGU/XBFmNMHbykI/AAAAAAAACSc/YpfRh60iWawBnjsoCImC_yxwFzf-BMcMACLcBGAs/s1600/Diesel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1479" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wK9rc8gcrGU/XBFmNMHbykI/AAAAAAAACSc/YpfRh60iWawBnjsoCImC_yxwFzf-BMcMACLcBGAs/s320/Diesel.jpg" width="295" /></a></div>
<br />
Yesterday, my baby-boy, Diesel, died on the operating table, after having gone into surgery to repair a torn ligament. As far as I know, aside for his Addison's Disease and recent torn ligament, he was healthy, and happy. Yesterday morning he was his normal cocky self and a few hours later, he was gone.<br />
<br />
I feel so numb, while my heart and soul feel torn. I will never be the same again, because life, and this world is less interesting and worth living, now that he is no longer here. He was truly my son. Part of me is dead now, forever.<br />
<br />
Rest in Peace, Diesel. I will love you forever.Murees Dupèhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11781339206465690961noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226849531756388320.post-20423293470617587052018-10-23T10:40:00.000+02:002018-10-23T10:43:32.361+02:00My writing and a personal update<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-lP6zOhjSgCDKKoWoFSkN1-7fldZTX8YnVeWP0YMDmfUGlzfOaVKQqWc47R0XdK1sMKa6UBun4LgJIQM5vR0wk40iAQ4Wsjw2LIj0dmgZJ19T8ZzN8PyXAUoPS17jQNBWKmqH6v3XJZI/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="426" data-original-width="640" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-lP6zOhjSgCDKKoWoFSkN1-7fldZTX8YnVeWP0YMDmfUGlzfOaVKQqWc47R0XdK1sMKa6UBun4LgJIQM5vR0wk40iAQ4Wsjw2LIj0dmgZJ19T8ZzN8PyXAUoPS17jQNBWKmqH6v3XJZI/s320/1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
I can’t believe it, but I am at the self-editing stage. I’ve been
reading a lot of <a href="https://www.deanwesleysmith.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Dean Wesley Smith’s</span></a> blog posts, especially the <a href="https://www.deanwesleysmith.com/killing-the-sacred-cows-of-publishing/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Killing The Sacred Cows posts</span> </a>(it deals with writing myths, not actual killings of cows).
Basically, he doesn’t believe in rewriting, and many others, which I can relate
to. He explains why in a lot of detail and I agree. It is how I always felt,
but knew I had to rewrite the same book over and over in the hopes that I make
it better, but I rarely do, because that is what all the experts say. Aside for
fixing spelling and grammar, you leave your work as is. Of course you still
focus on keeping the quality high. You only get better through practice, and
thus, writing more books. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
I’ve also been reading a lot of <a href="https://kriswrites.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Kristine Kathryn Rusch’s</span> </a>blog posts,
and she gives a lot of help with the writing business and writing. She is
equally as brilliant. She also has a very refreshing attitude and she doesn’t
believe in rewriting either. Of course she is Dean Wesley Smith’s wife, but
they are both best sellers in their own rights, and have published well over a
hundred books each. They are both traditionally and indie published. So they
know what they are talking about. And both are advocates of shaping your own
writing career and following your own path. You can’t follow the path of
someone else and expect the same results. So their work has drastically changed
my attitude and my approaches to writing. It connected with a lot of things I
always felt, and reminded me of the person I had been when I had started
writing, before reading all those free advice and tips. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
I still find myself reading lots of how-to articles on writing and
reading tons of advice on what others say you must do to be successful. I have
followed those tips, especially on marketing and it had me so overwhelmed that
I hadn’t written in month intervals over the past few years. I was in constant
panic. But both above mentioned authors believe that writing more books helps
you more than constantly marketing. I agree with that too. But it is just so
refreshing that two professionals actually spoke out and turn most writing
books and advice on its heads. It goes against what most writing books (not
all) tell you to do. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>On a personal level<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
My brother is busy adding an addition on our existing house, which
basically means that our home will be divided into two separate dwellings. But
it has been chaos, living with the dust and noise, hence why I’ve been gone for
a while. Also, I’ve been plagued with a lot of migraines, even before the
renovations begun. But at least I had started the self-editing. I have been
doing yoga regularly and it has helped me feel better and minimize my pain, as
well as help with my depression (I’m still on my medication). I’m not doing
yoga everyday yet, which is what I should be doing. But at the moment that is
good enough for me.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1eFhH-vB1xkx4RHuyCYOh8TWU13-n08WJ3YUdJjRNk3SmreEL8kHfTVMI8ruEVm8CiICEgYs66rtPzaZTljfI_X6XLHCzbSVAgGV7fZVVKLuT4Te920UjKAZxujSkuqSF6UMpdFCEnfo/s1600/IMG-20171223-WA0003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1030" data-original-width="468" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1eFhH-vB1xkx4RHuyCYOh8TWU13-n08WJ3YUdJjRNk3SmreEL8kHfTVMI8ruEVm8CiICEgYs66rtPzaZTljfI_X6XLHCzbSVAgGV7fZVVKLuT4Te920UjKAZxujSkuqSF6UMpdFCEnfo/s320/IMG-20171223-WA0003.jpg" width="145" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Image Copyright Arista du Plessis</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
I’m also still working for my sister in her artisanal food/ baking
business. It is going well. I can’t believe how much my experience from the
business side of being an Indie author has come in handy. I do our marketing,
branding, and handle our social media presence. Not to mention that I help my
sister out in the kitchen. Nothing fancy of course. My jobs include simple
things like measuring the ingredients, or lining the baking tins, or making
recipes under my sister’s supervision. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
We will be celebrating our first year in business this coming November,
which is cool. The business is growing fast, which is always great. It keeps me
plenty busy, and has long hours. But it is stimulating, and more importantly,
it provides me with an income, which helps with my medical bills. It also
provides me with a lot of stability, while I try and publish more books, and
work on creating a larger body of work. Because I haven’t sold a book in years,
and that is what happens when you only have one book in your inventory.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Let me know what is new with you. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Murees Dupèhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11781339206465690961noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226849531756388320.post-10051001330239831402018-08-08T14:46:00.001+02:002018-08-08T14:46:43.479+02:00Progress on book two<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="giphy-embed" frameborder="0" height="480" src="https://giphy.com/embed/3o7qE2VAxuXWeyvJIY" width="314"></iframe><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://giphy.com/gifs/3o7qE2VAxuXWeyvJIY">via GIPHY</a></div>
<br />
Lately it feels like everything I have posted about on here has only been negative. Well, I finally have some good news. I have finally finished the drafting stage of book two. Now all I have to do is add more description in the areas where I was vague, or delete where I tend to over explain. Then it is on to the self-editing stage. I'm still saving for professional editing. As that is my biggest weakness. Spotting my own mistakes. But I have a long list of critiques, which my editor had picked up in my first book, to look for and correct. As one tends to make the same mistakes, or use the same words repetitively.<br />
<br />
Also, I'm still thinking of whether I want line editing, as well as copy editing, or if I can simply go with just copy editing. To be honest, I don't think my writing is that clean yet. But it is all about what my budget allows.<br />
<br />
But all in all, it feels like a mountain has been lifted off my shoulders. I've done what I've felt was impossible. I finished this damn second book, after having rewritten, and starting over so many times in the past few years. So, as the gif suggests, I'm dancing.<br />
<br />
How do you celebrate victories, big or small?<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="giphy-embed" frameborder="0" height="319" src="https://giphy.com/embed/F9hQLAVhWnL56" width="480"></iframe><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://giphy.com/gifs/F9hQLAVhWnL56">via GIPHY</a></div>
<br />Murees Dupèhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11781339206465690961noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226849531756388320.post-90767355191930033242018-07-23T23:08:00.001+02:002018-07-23T23:08:16.329+02:00Catching up and where I am now<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Work on my second novel, The Executioner, in my Thelum Series is still
in progress. I made a mind map to help me get a grip on the plot. It definitely
helped me simplify the story. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic4gf8-IR3d7J-FDaZBuxcQM56kq_Pac-kRxrWNWlKfO8gnvpBu0EcN58rVblil9AZAEVB5W-PfVvSUCbDBKT1G_d4axlxnpPSdx2nBiu2gCUT-V0A8FdlH0UXBHsjvkVYj1irmIn0zPc/s1600/IMG_20180619_150934.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic4gf8-IR3d7J-FDaZBuxcQM56kq_Pac-kRxrWNWlKfO8gnvpBu0EcN58rVblil9AZAEVB5W-PfVvSUCbDBKT1G_d4axlxnpPSdx2nBiu2gCUT-V0A8FdlH0UXBHsjvkVYj1irmIn0zPc/s320/IMG_20180619_150934.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
I’ve also decided to re-brand my Thelum Series. I’ve remade my book
cover. It just speaks to me now, and I feel like it is really important that I
make the covers myself. I tend to change things up, so now I can fix it if
something bothers me, or if I just change my mind. As you can see, I went back
to green, which is what the very first book cover was.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkhwI_TktgviBA2tEB4F5LKO7DfZqNgscaJyK6FBa-mA7R4SqyjLfQCc1Eld_N9Ck9uk-orYFIqWja_gyVOgXdvXg7mDACETUUT3z5xzecuD5KL-y0slR2QH6TMyIujPU8oZC8aPGXE94/s1600/The+Amaranthine+final+cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkhwI_TktgviBA2tEB4F5LKO7DfZqNgscaJyK6FBa-mA7R4SqyjLfQCc1Eld_N9Ck9uk-orYFIqWja_gyVOgXdvXg7mDACETUUT3z5xzecuD5KL-y0slR2QH6TMyIujPU8oZC8aPGXE94/s320/The+Amaranthine+final+cover.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
My chronic pain, which I’ve had for just over three years, has recently
been re-diagnosed as Fibromyalgia. I’ve been having more and more symptoms, so
that is why a new diagnosis has been given. I also already suffer from not only
chronic depression, but also Major Depressive Disorder. The one affects the
other, so now I have to work extra hard on my health. My biggest fear is what
it means for my future, and how it will impact who I am, and what it will do to
my writing. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Since December 2017 I have been helping my chef sister start her own
business. She bakes from home now, so I help her out, as well as do a lot of
her marketing. Everything I’ve learnt from trying to promote my own work has
come in handy. I’m putting a lot of my focus on this project, because it has
the potential to become a reliable day job. I know especially now, with all my
medical bills, that I really need to work. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
I’ve been really listening to a lot of Joanna Penn’s podcasts to
inspire me. I’ve also been learning a lot about the type of writer I really
want to be. And how I would prefer to market my writing. I’d rather keep
blogging and prove that I’m a real person, than employ all these impersonal
marketing techniques. It just isn’t me.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
I feel like I haven’t been part of the writing community for a long
time. I’m so out of touch with everything. Not to mention that I feel so
isolated from it all. I miss being able
to relate to my fellow writers about how frustrating writing can be, but still
so much fun. I just really miss being amongst like-minded creatives. We might
all be writers, but we all are still so different, and that is so refreshing.
Though we all write, our approaches are different.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">So, this is where I am at the moment. How are
you doing? Hopefully better than me. </span></span>Murees Dupèhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11781339206465690961noreply@blogger.com