The Power of the Diary

To get my writing flowing again after an awful experience with writers block, that then in turn led to a serious dose of depression, I've decided to start keeping an electronic diary. Its easy to do and its private, which means I don't feel the pressure to prove anything to anyone about my skills as a writer. So far it has been a lot of fun, and I'm writing faster and more confidently than I have in quite some time.

In another step forward, I've decided to work on transforming a short film I wrote over a year ago (which I haven't found an avenue for) into a children's book. Wish me luck.

I've also enrolled myself in an AFTRS 2-day Scriptwriting course. While I don't have a project in mind to take along to the class, and while the class may not really be 'necessary' as I studied Scriptwriting subjects at Film School, it will be good to get out and mingle with some other would-be writers. It may also satisfy the classroom-atmosphere craving I often get since leaving Uni. Luckily (in a way) the course was postponed due to the Brissie floods, so I may still have time to figure out a little project to take along with me to class...

Queensland Floods - the Wildlife

So good to see that there is hope for the Australian wildlife caught in the floods... Stay safe everyone x

A Wet Weekend in Kenilworth

For a writer, Kenilworth is  pretty good weekend destination. A 2 hr drive north of Brisbane (a really nice drive, especially if you take the scenic route and drive past the Glasshouse Mountains), it's a very small town, with one main street which includes a chemist, post office (owned by my aunt and uncle), a couple of country style cafes and a pub. It's quiet and tranquil, and to add to that it's pouring down with rain. Perfect writing conditions! However I'm here to visit family and am only able to stay one night, so I may not get a chance to write - which is frustrating as I'm totally in the mood! On the upside, my Aunty makes a mean cup of tea!

In a massive event for Kenilworth (and perhaps even more scandalous than the gossip about an unwanted bench being placed on the footpath outside the chemist - it made the news) a new shop has been opened on Kenilworth's main street. I personally love it, and am planning a mini shopping spree for the next time I'm in town. It stands out like a sore thumb from the rest of the buildings in the street - in a good way. While most buildings and houses in Kenilworth stick to 'Heritage Colours', this shop is boldly lathered in orange, purple and blue. The inside is even more divine - leopard print pillows, Italian-Lady headdresses, beaded purses, hot pink knitted throw rugs and glittering tiaras stand alongside dresses worthy of a fancy night on the town and super fashionable handbags. It's not cheap, but as a lot of the items are lovingly handmade and unique, it's kind of worth it. 

While this really has nothing to do with the art of writing, you'd certainly feel arty-farty as you set up for a late night with the typewriter, all wrapped up in a shaggy knitted rug and Italian-style beanie. :D Just another reason to visit the town of Kenilworth. 

By the way, the shop is 'Johanna Van Genderen Designs', and it is directly across the road from the Real Estate Agents. Lets face it, you can't miss it.

You can also visit the website - http://www.johannavangenderen.com.au/index.html

Pretty clothes!!! For, you know, inspiration...

Just thought I'd share these luuurvely fashion websites! Their new collections are love love love. The websites are from all over the shop - Oz, NZ, UK...

Chip Chop

http://www.chipchop.com.au/categories/so-you-think-you%27re-from-france/

Twenty Seven Names

http://www.twentysevennames.co.nz/

People Tree

http://www.peopletree.co.uk/

Elizabeth Gilbert's take on Venice

Last night I was lying in bed, snuggled up with my cat and reading 'Eat Pray Love'. Generally I've really loved the book and it's insights to Italy (I'm only in the first 3rd so far), but was shocked to read that Gilbert's description of Venice included the words 'smelly,' 'weird' and 'depressing'. My own experience of Venice last year couldn't have been more opposite! Perhaps I just got lucky in that the weather was sunny and I was in the perfect frame of mind to wonder aimlessly through the quiet backstreets, taking in the beauty of the old and mysterious city. I in no way found it depressing - I personally felt quite uplifted!

Sigh, oh well - to each their own

Spoon Cafe, Edinburgh

For all those Harry Potter fans out there, I thought I'd post a couple of photos I took when I visited 'Spoon Cafe' in Edinburgh last year - the cafe where J.K spent a bit of time writing her books. It was quite exciting for me :D

Introducing me

Hello everyone!

This little blog page is one of the methods Im attempting to regain my love of writing and the confidence I need to do it! After a grueling 3 years at film school surrounded by rather hardcore and talented people all wanting the same things as me, I emerged a beaten and nervous little dumpling. One year and an amazing tour of Europe later, I'm ready to get back on track!

In this blog, as well as random ravings and gushy lovings, I will keep an account of my adventures as I embark on my journey to find confidence and conquer a career as a professional writer.


x Ren