Temple Wang wrote:Janet Taylor-Perry wrote:Having a Bachelor of Science in psychology and a Masters in education, I can't help but smile. I'm starting a new thread in the writing tips forum if anyone would like to visit there.
Let's hope your smile was at understanding the sarcasm and not merely out of smugness. Unlike you, I am ordinary. I was born in a mud hut in central China, yet I too can't help but laugh: at people who sling around their degrees as if they believe they have some meaning or might impress others. You know, we simple folk used corncobs instead of toilet paper in our village, but we generally tossed them out when we were done, as they got a little uncomfy, if you know what I mean.
Hell girl, we used corn cobs in the communal outhouse in the Ozarks. The cobs, after being used for a month or two, where collected by the youngest in our clan, and then Big Daddy "Buck" Smithers would turn them into corncob pipes for Ma and the rest of us kids and grand kids. I still smoke one to this day as I skim the centipedes and scorpions out of my salt-water pool (cement pond) over looking Maui and the vast Pacific Ocean. On a clear day I can see Saigon... dang, it's a small world after all.
BTW- I never found them uncomfy, if you know what I mean.
1,301 2015-01-14 09:28:21
Re: Site bugs 2 - the derailed version (28 replies, posted in TheNextBigWriter Premium)
1,302 2015-01-14 09:28:00
Re: Site bugs 2 - the derailed version (28 replies, posted in TheNextBigWriter Premium)
I hate when I become defensive. I also hate when folks assume they know anything about me. Yes, I have advanced degrees--EARNED not given. Those degrees came about from my determination to rise above the circumstances in which I was born. Temple, I have never commented directly to you or about you in any way that should have been offensive. If you perceived my words as such, my sincerest apology. I, perhaps mistakenly, read your comment and thought you had confused my with the other Janet. I encourage you to read some of my short pieces on site--Fig Leaves and Toilet Paper as well as Stick Shifts and Modeling might give you a little insight into who I am. My short pieces are autobiographical anecdotes written with a touch of sarcasm. You appear to be an intelligent young woman with excellent writing skills. Use those gifts. I only ask that you refrain from making comments that could be construed as insults and attacks. I posted this here in open forum so that nobody can accuse me of such tactics.
1,303 2015-01-14 09:27:36
Re: Site bugs 2 - the derailed version (28 replies, posted in TheNextBigWriter Premium)
njc wrote:The fellow who relates how he walked ten miles to school every day, in the snow, uphill--both ways--is establishing his own authority. But shouldn't we be more concerned with the quality of ideas? And don't good ideas, well-expressed, establish a reputation here better than any life history could?
Now that's a quality idea, NJC. And as soon as I get rid of these Site Bugs that are irritating me, I'm going to post a quality idea myself. ;-)
1,304 2015-01-14 09:27:22
Re: Site bugs 2 - the derailed version (28 replies, posted in TheNextBigWriter Premium)
janet reid wrote:Temple, serious question, meant sincerely, and asked against my better judgement. Are you here to write and learn? Because you're borderline to ticking all the boxes of an internet troll at the rate you're going in these forums. Nothing personal, not saying you can or can't give an opinion, I'm really just curious. If you could keep your reply, if you do reply that is, civilised and polite, that would be really nice of you and much appreciated. Cheers Janet R
Why, Hi, other Janet. Good evening. So happy you asked. Let me clear that up for you. I am here to critique and have my work critiqued. I've been here not quite two months and I have ten chapters posted. I have done 35 reviews in that time, all in line reviews, and thorough to the best of my ability. Now, tell me, Janet—and asking with my best judgment and sincerest interest—would you say your efforts in the last two months as far as posting your work here and doing reviews is any match to that? Because, unless I am mistaken, it looks like to me you have posted, well, nothing in the last, well, four months? But I have noticed you've been quite active on the forums.
I sometimes also participate in Forum discussions. These generally go pretty well until either some know-it-all steps into the middle of the discussions and throws the thread off kilter, or when some mysoginist (who might have the initials CB) decides to vent his hate. I am not a troll. I simply don't like mother hens in the Forum. So, here's what you can take to the bank, Ms. Reid. Next time you feel the need to get bossy with me on the Forums, don't. And I promise you that you will NEVER have to deal with me again. However, should you feel compelled to do that again, you can rest assured I will take a break from my busy writing and critiquing to set you on the right path. Is that clear enough for you?
I have a suggestion for you. How about you back out of my grille and go back to posting on topic, or whatever it is that you do and we just end this here before you embarrass yourself further.
Cheers yourself.
1,305 2015-01-14 09:27:10
Re: Site bugs 2 - the derailed version (28 replies, posted in TheNextBigWriter Premium)
The fellow who relates how he walked ten miles to school every day, in the snow, uphill--both ways--is establishing his own authority. But shouldn't we be more concerned with the quality of ideas? And don't good ideas, well-expressed, establish a reputation here better than any life history could?
1,306 2015-01-14 09:26:53
Re: Site bugs 2 - the derailed version (28 replies, posted in TheNextBigWriter Premium)
Temple, serious question, meant sincerely, and asked against my better judgement. Are you here to write and learn? Because you're borderline to ticking all the boxes of an internet troll at the rate you're going in these forums. Nothing personal, not saying you can or can't give an opinion, I'm really just curious. If you could keep your reply, if you do reply that is, civilised and polite, that would be really nice of you and much appreciated. Cheers Janet R
1,307 2015-01-14 09:26:41
Re: Site bugs 2 - the derailed version (28 replies, posted in TheNextBigWriter Premium)
Janet Taylor-Perry wrote:Having a Bachelor of Science in psychology and a Masters in education, I can't help but smile. I'm starting a new thread in the writing tips forum if anyone would like to visit there.
Let's hope your smile was at understanding the sarcasm and not merely out of smugness. Unlike you, I am ordinary. I was born in a mud hut in central China, yet I too can't help but laugh: at people who sling around their degrees as if they believe they have some meaning or might impress others. You know, we simple folk used corncobs instead of toilet paper in our village, but we generally tossed them out when we were done, as they got a little uncomfy, if you know what I mean.
1,308 2015-01-14 09:26:29
Re: Site bugs 2 - the derailed version (28 replies, posted in TheNextBigWriter Premium)
Having a Bachelor of Science in psychology and a Masters in education, I can't help but smile. I'm starting a new thread in the writing tips forum if anyone would like to visit there.
1,309 2015-01-14 09:26:16
Re: Site bugs 2 - the derailed version (28 replies, posted in TheNextBigWriter Premium)
Janet Taylor-Perry wrote:Oh, for newcomers, Janet Reid and Janet Taylor-Perry are two different people. I am a former English teacher, and, yes, I tend to guide when I give feedback. However, I have never been accused of being a mother hen--maybe a hawk that would devour the mother hen.
I know you are different people, but you both share the same predilection for stirring pots that are simmering quite nicely. It's a common disorder. I read about it an online psychology magazine when I was doing some research for a character in my book. There was a clique who thought it was genetic, but their research was eventually debunked. They think they've pinned it down simply to overcompensating for insecurities. I can give you the link if you like—they do offer some non-invasive treatment therapies, mostly counseling though, and they require you to tightly restricted use of social media and ban forum use altogether. ;-)
1,310 2015-01-14 09:26:03
Re: Site bugs 2 - the derailed version (28 replies, posted in TheNextBigWriter Premium)
Vern,
I agree that sometimes it needs to be restated. Thus, the word I used--reiterate. If you're having the same problem as someone else and feel the issue needs to be addressed again, that is the time to do it. Having to cycle through old posts and not having the new ones at the top, is not a site bug, but a preference. If I don't want to read everything that has been said, I just go to the last page. In addition, if a person has already said something, that gives you (or me) the opportunity to affirm that person's position. Or in some cases--disagree. I just hate to see any comments spiral into what amounts to bickering, and in rare cases, name calling and/or belittling. I'm not talking about political correctness, just courtesy and respect.
Oh, for newcomers, Janet Reid and Janet Taylor-Perry are two different people. I am a former English teacher, and, yes, I tend to guide when I give feedback. However, I have never been accused of being a mother hen--maybe a hawk that would devour the mother hen.
1,311 2015-01-14 09:25:44
Re: Site bugs 2 - the derailed version (28 replies, posted in TheNextBigWriter Premium)
Janet Taylor-Perry wrote:
I know that it is sometimes tedious to wade through several comments to a thread, but at the same time, it might behoove each person to at least scan previous comments in order to preclude repeated or very similar thoughts (unless feeling the need to reiterate). This would also MAYBE put a stop to comments that become argumentative. Give and take is a great part of this site, but when the thread takes on the guise of bickering, I cannot see its usefulness.
A perfect example of what happens when someone butts into a thread with an OT "mother hen" post. The whole thread unravels and disintegrates into chaos....Thanks A tip for you that is far more important than reading every comment in the thread. Read the Topic of the post. SITE BUGS (not BUGS SITE)
1,312 2015-01-14 09:24:35
Topic: Site bugs 2 - the derailed version (28 replies, posted in TheNextBigWriter Premium)
I've copied all the derailing posts from Site Bugs 2 across. Feel free to pick up where you have left off. To give Sol a break, I suggest you delete your original quotes/comments from the Site Bugs 2 thread in order to clean it up and keep it on topic.
1,313 2015-01-14 09:15:46
Re: The worst Xmas ever (38 replies, posted in Cop Shop)
Ledbetter took one manly stride forward to catch the limp body, all of a sudden frail, in a smooth motion. Wilson jerked around as he drew his weapon.
Ledbetter looked down at Kitty or rather Miss Betty, expecting a pool of blood at his feet. His frown deepened when he saw no blood. "What the ..."
Kitty inhaled a haggard breath before her eyes opened. Ledbetter helped her to her feet and when she couldn't stay upright, settled her on the davenport, while making sure none of the pillows were disturbed.
"I'll be back as soon as I can!" Ledbetter wasted not a second more as he rushed out of the apartment to back-up his partner, gun in hand.
"The shot came from 806!" Wilson was already pounding the door with his shoulder and using every pound of his bulk. A swift, final kick had the door flew open with a crash.
Ledbetter immediately stepped in, gun raised. "Police!"
If not for his years of training and experience on the force, he would've dropped his weapon in shocked surprise.
Standing over a man's body, holding a gun in her trembling hands, was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen. They had also found Kitty's mystery man. Above a dull left eye that stared unseeing at ceiling, was a star-shaped scar. And he didn't think there would be more than one 170 pound gentlemen with a spider web tattoo on their right hands wearing an avocado green bowling shirt, black pants, black socks and size ten black shoes in the area. He would also bet his measly monthly salary that there would be a red dragon on the back of the victim's bloodied shirt with the words "Chinese food" in mandarin calligraphy.
"Ma'am, drop the weapon!"
It took her a few seconds to register she wasn't alone any more. She fixed a pair of honey-brown eyes on Ledbetter. "I didn't shoot him! I wanted to, but it wasn't me! I swear!"
Wilson took a stand next to Ledbetter, his weapon pointing straight at her chest while he experienced serious trouble to ignore the enticing cleavage just visible above the button of her silk shirt that strained to keep the bounty enclosed. "Drop the weapon, miss, or I'll shoot!"
Her eyes widened when she gazed down at the gun in her grip and dropped it as if it was a snake. All colour drained from her face, and in less than five minutes, Ledbetter had to step forward to catch a fainting female.
Only then did he notice the open window.
1,314 2015-01-14 08:19:54
Re: The worst Xmas ever (38 replies, posted in Cop Shop)
Oh, and I love the idea of solving this mystery in the building instead of taking it to Manor Oaks.
The wife is still more than welcome to join the party! 
1,315 2015-01-14 08:17:20
Re: The worst Xmas ever (38 replies, posted in Cop Shop)
First thought is that I love the concept of a 'last cigarette' for Miss Betty. That part is classic. Along with adding the 'lethal' dose of smoke to reference what is about to happen.
Are you up to the challenge Janet? Or is it my turn to pick up the towel?
A
Hey amy, I'm home, so I'll take it?! Give me 10-15 minutes!
1,316 2015-01-14 04:24:54
Re: The worst Xmas ever (38 replies, posted in Cop Shop)
I have two feelings.
(1) We're going to solve this murder mystery in this building if not on floor 8 hehehe
(2) This is going straight to hard cover format once we're done with it! LOL
I LOVE THIS! brilliant idea amy! <------- not a surprise by the way!
1,317 2015-01-14 04:08:43
Re: Favourite romance movies (28 replies, posted in Romance Inc.)
Based on Linda's and everyone else lists, we seem to have a lot in common!
1,318 2015-01-14 04:08:00
Re: Favourite romance movies (28 replies, posted in Romance Inc.)
Speaking of "Kate and Leopold", it made me remember another one of Meg Ryan's movies. French Kiss. Also a nice one I think for our list!
1,319 2015-01-13 12:47:26
Re: The worst Xmas ever (38 replies, posted in Cop Shop)
Ledbetter straigtened his lean, muscular frame and ignored the once-over from Luz. "Here's my card. I will also need your contact details if we have any further questions."
Their business done for now, he turned when Lud closed the door and gave the gold encrusted elevator a stony gaze. He hated stairs. That's when the movement caught his eye. Whoever was behind door 809, had been real slow to close it in time. No click sounded and if he hadn't looked towards the centre of the passage, he'd have no idea he and Lud had been watched and eavesdropped on.
The sound of his knuckles rapping on timber echoed down the hallway.
Just when he was about to hammer the door again, it opened, straining on a security chain.
"Who's there?" The female's voice was husky from age or smoking, more likely both judging from the waft of cigarette smoke that blew over his face.
He kept his face straight even though he was sure she knew the answer to the question.
"Detective Red Ledbetter, ma'am."
"You ain't looking like no detective to me, young man." The voice grated his nerves.
He flashed his badge in front of her nose. "Mind opening the door, ma'am?"
"Got the manners of them cops." She continued after a coughing spell. "I do mind, yes."
Ledbetter propped his shoulder against the doorframe. "Never mind."
Deep, leather crinkles criss-crossed her expressionless face which would've been pretty when she was younger. Bright grey eyes belied her disinterest however. "Your name, ma'am?"
"Miss Kitty Betty." The emphasis was on the miss.
"Well, Miss Betty, you seen anything you'd like to share?"
"Humph, now you wanna know. I've been phoning you police lads for months. What have you done? Not a thing. Not one damned thing."
He decided to turn on his charms and gave Miss Betty a dashing smile. "Well, ma'am, I promise you, if I had known, I would've done something sooner."
She removed the safety chain with a hand covered in old wrinkles and purple veins. "Maybe you should come in, detective. Don't want to tell the whole world now, you know?"
1,320 2015-01-13 11:56:32
Re: The worst Xmas ever (38 replies, posted in Cop Shop)
Just careful not to but in while you're on it! 
Yeah, and no pressure Janet! LOL
Here I go - I'll see what I can do in the next 10 minutes!
1,321 2015-01-13 10:33:09
Re: The worst Xmas ever (38 replies, posted in Cop Shop)
This is good stuff! I'll leave it in amy's hands for now, and then I'll try my hand at mystery and crime. Hope you have buckles to buckle up, it's really not my forte! LOL
1,322 2015-01-13 08:28:26
Re: Reading your material aloud (6 replies, posted in Writing Tips & Site Help)
Hi Janet
I have heard of this trick before. I've done it a few times although it feels utterly stupid to do that - I read it out loud to myself as I don't have a flesh-and-blood writer's group nor the time, hopefully one day! But I've still missed things.
With my initial posts on TNBW, I was trying to get it perfect. I soon realised that no matter how many times I've read a piece, nits still slipped through. I still try to minimise any mistakes a much as I can before I post to get value from the reviews on site, but have long since accepted that I would always miss a few mistakes, sometimes really silly ones.
What I now found that really works for me is to post a chapter and then review it before I publish it. That seems to work too as it has the "TNBW look" when I read and review other writers on site, so my mind automatically switches to reviewer mode and I do pick up nits I could have sworn weren't there! But yeah, even so, some buggers still slip through the net.
My goal is to get published, so the final draft I might very well lock myself somewhere private (and for those with kids, you know where that's going to be LOL) and read it to myself, but hopefully I'll find someone who I can read to, who knows?!
Janet R
1,323 2015-01-12 07:55:33
Re: Acts/ Dictates/ Mandates/ Mantle - Amy's Thread (1,905 replies, posted in Fantasy/Magic & Sci-Fi)
Next chapter for Dictates is up. Took long enough. Why do I have nine days off and only find three hours to write?
If you write a chapter in 3 hours, you're good!
I also reviewed The Satchel - loved it, it's a feel good-nice piece of writing!
1,324 2015-01-11 09:25:08
Re: Favourite romance movies (28 replies, posted in Romance Inc.)
Would "Knight and Day" with Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz fit the bill? I liked it.
1,325 2015-01-11 09:23:25
Re: Any ideas (13 replies, posted in Romance Inc.)
Ok, how about we try a bit of romance workshopping around here? If you have any ideas for a fun exercise, either post a new thread in the group or let me know if you'd rather someone else flesh out the details?!
Janet R xx
