A ROW80 Re-Shuffle is in Order…

Savvy Sunday Salutations:

I have some exciting new developments to share with you with regards to the guest blogger feature we will have here on yikici. As you may/may not be aware, Sunday’s feature will focus on bloggers who I feel fits in with what my idea of ‘Savvy’ is (my definitions vary to some extent, but overall people with a fresh outlook and those who are very engaging get my savvy-vote-of-approval). I have asked these (watch this space) fabulous souls to write/create a post which they enjoy writing/creating, following this, there will be a short burst of questions and answer sessions -just so we can get to know them all that better –isn’t that just cool?

Resident Blogger, Patrick Tulley, will kick it off this coming Sunday, 23^rd October 2011, (the next guest blogger will feature a fortnight after); if you are intrigued and want to find out what Patrick likes to write/create etc, please feel free to pop by then and check out his savvy post. For the time being, let’s get back to my ROW80 check-in.
read more

October 16, 2011 yikici 5 Comments All the Posts on yikici, Goals, Networking & Motivation, Narrative, Words from yikici, Work in Progress (WIP), © 2011-2012 Ozlem Yikici. Facebook, G+, Goals, Networking & Motivation, Google+, NaNo, NaNoWriMo, Ozlem Yikici, Patrick Tulley, ROW80 Round 4, Salutations, Social Media, Twitter

Challenge Taken: Sarahann’s Warning

Saturday’s Showcase Sketches:

Since I turned my attention to my family these past couple of weeks, I have not been able to write as effectively as I would have liked to. Today; however, I have had some ‘me time’ and a little story unwrapped itself –courtesy goes to the fabulous prompts of Ken Broad (AKA ‘The Magician’). To check out his rules (and also an interesting history on who Sarahann is) click here; Ken, you wanted an Octo”boo”er story fit for Halloween, I am hoping this meets the mark.

Sarahann’s Warning:

Something happened; it happened just before I reached here…

I can’t remember quite, what.

Something happened; a cold irksome feeling took a-hold of me; memories-a-haze, it failed me…

Glass, ice, stone?

My hands moulded, shaped-in quicksand-like; that’s what engulfed me.
read more

October 15, 2011 yikici 14 Comments All the Posts on yikici, Flash Fiction Challenges, © 2011-2012 Ozlem Yikici. flash fiction, Flash Fiction Challenges, Halloween, Haunted tales, Ken Broad, Octo"boo"er, Ozlem Yikici, Sarahann, Sarahann's Shoppe of Earthlybound Souls

Sings “Celebrate 100 Posts -Come On!”

A Special Post & A Special Triptych Tapestry Tuesday:

*looks around several times then continues to sing* “…woo hoo!” Yes, I know 100 posts already! *dances a merry jig* For all the times I have used the word jig, you’d think I was Irish!

Image sourced from: http://wonderopolis.org

A celebration is in order and I racked my brains to think what would be the best way to celebrate this milestone (very difficult with a head cold/flu) and today a spark ignited. *grins* Today’s post will be reminiscing on what happened during the last 100 posts with a few statistics, a very brief ROW80 update (as I have not really done much) and I will end it with a different Flash Fiction Challenge, I hope you enjoy today’s read.

(As always, there is a pdf document at the bottom of the post for those who may find this a difficult read.)

From Humble Beginnings…

I started off in the blogging world back in March 2011 -seven months and counting; and it has been one heck of a wondrous journey. I have had soooo much fun and it has helped me greatly with my anxiety/panic attacks as well as depression, without this experience I am unsure where I would be today. This writing expedition has been a humungous learning curve for me (and still is), for those who think blogging is simple and easy -how wrong can you be; it is extreme hard work and so I salute many of my blogger friends, you guys are doing an amazing job! There has been a few who have already celebrated their 100th milestone and I kept wondering if I would ever reach the big ‘100‘ and now it has arrived I cannot believe it -someone pinch me!

I know I have a knack of writing waaaaay too much at times (my mind’s-A-buzzing when I sit down to write) so please bear with me as I try to collect my thoughts out onto this post.

GENERIC STATS: In 100 posts there has been 680 comments, 491 spam comments (thank you Aksimet for blocking them) and 7,638 visitors to the blog ‘woo hoo‘ thank you (each and every one of you) for popping by and reading my odd rambles.

SEARCHES: The top searches that has resulted an influx to my blog are as follows: Nutella Cake(s), Turner, Nutella Cake Recipes, Cake with Nutella, Cute Creative Love Quotes, Transparent Tapestries, Precious Moments Quotes, Crescent Moon and Stars and Hansel & Gretel.

I have just carried out a Google search and have found out if you search any of the above (Barr the quotes searches and the moon and stars) my blog shows up on the first page of the Google search! That certainly has made my day. Though I have to say, my moan about Nutella seems to be a good call as that is the most searched topic -how ironic is that?!

MOST COMMENTED POSTS/PAGES: If you want to catch up on the discussion here’s the top five commented articles:

Self-Publish or Not – That is the Question – 29 Comments
A Mixed Bag of News, Updates & the First Campaign Challenge - 28 Comments
My New Goal: ROW80 -What’s it all About? (Updated) - 25 Comments
Challenge Taken : St Pauls at High Tide - 22 Comments
Ozlem Yikici - 21 Comments

A RANDOM SELECTION OF ARTICLES: I have favourite numbers and based on them I have listed the posts 1 through to 100 according to which number corresponds with them, take your pick and have wander down memory lane with me…

Post Number 1: Heya…
Post Number 3: Absence
Post Number 7: Empty Room
Post Number 8: Unreal…
Post Number 11: Katie
Post Number 12: Not There (Strangers)
Post Number 21: The Trust a Novel by Sean Keefer
Post Number 22: Inspirations vs Priorities
Post Number 31: Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen
Post Number 33: The Joys of Nutella Cake –My Angst with it!
Post Number 77: ROW80 is getting (me) Organised!
Post Number 88: Challenge Taken: Hansel & Gretel – Our (Untold) Story

MY PERSONAL FAVE’S: As writers, I am sure we all have favourite snippets, writings that we have written (I definitely do) but here I want to jot down a few posts I enjoyed writing and at the same time had fun with.

HIGHLIGHTS SINCE BLOGGING: I never knew what kind of world was out there in the blogosphere and then by chance I started on my journey and stumbled across Twitter and there was like a pow-wow moment; a whole new universe full of fellow writers hit me. I was hooked; the journey it has taken me into has been truly inspirational -my fellow Twitter pals (you know who you are) and then my super-duper blogging buddies embraced me with open arms and the sense of community and friendship just blossomed. Even when rock bottom hit someone always kept up the encouraging cheers and wisdom. And now there is G+ too so even more people to connect with.

I have been blessed with wonderful people and opportunities; ROW80 was (and still is) a great way to get my writing in check and then the Writer’s Platform-Building Campaign and it was mind-boggling (I still have not got to grips with it fully -partly because my personal life just got too hectic that I had to take a back seat; but regardless it is still one of my highlights so far) and Voice Week was just fab.

Since writing and blogging I have written over 60,000 words -something I thought I’d never achieve so I am still in shock, really and truly -I recall; saying someone pinch me; surely I’m still sleeping!

Most of you know my dilemma with going self-hosted and then I took the plunge -that too brought with it a plethora of new things to learn (and I’m still learning). I am currently working with Ian (my fave techie-friend) and we are hoping to have a lighter background for the main reading sections as I know there have been some concerns for visitors and readers alike -so, please pop back to check it out.

Winning an online course with Tiffany Lawson was another great moment (October 2011 is study month).

Having guest blogger Patrick Tulley was a superb experience too (Patrick and I are in talks of what’s next for his posts -keep an eye out for further news soon).

I mustn’t forget my recent creation: A Fun Game – In Your Head; I can see this developing into a regular game once every six months or a year -what do you reckon? If I developed it further would you take part in the next round?

Finally, one of the major highlights for me was when I was interviewed by Mindi Anderson; here’s the interview for you to read: Ozlem Yikici – The London Novelist. It was a great experience and I thank Mindi for the opportunity.

ROW80 Moments:

I have to admit I have started round four rather slowly *grumbles* I suppose I should be grateful I had family over and I spent quality time with them (if only I did not catch that pesky head cold/flu). Therefore, other than the two posts I have written for the blog there has not been much writing happening. I will ensure I have a better update by the coming Sunday (just trying to get my groove back). This means, I’m still here, I will write some more soon(ish) in the meantime know that I am happy and getting better and will hopefully bombarding you all on your blogs and Twitter -get ready for a rush of yikici.

PS: My lovely critique pals, I will be making tracks soon, please be patient with me whilst I sort myself out.

Challenge Issued: Triptych Turkish Delights

Finally, for all you patient challenge takers, we come to this month’s results and challenges. Last month’s rules can be found here: Challenge (Re-)Issued: Turner’s Tapestries.

A fellow campaigner took part in the challenge, he did not post the said entry on his blog but in the comment section of the initial challenge; therefore, I will copy and paste it here and link him back to his blog.

Alan E. Marling submitted this poem with this explanation: “I am not sure that I understand the triptych challenge, but I’ll offer this submission for the picture:”

“The desolation of Rome leaves all in permanent fall,
Browns and yellows staining,
Faceless friends remaining,
Shallow pools will never wash away it all.”

Thank you for rising to the challenge Alan.

This month’ challenge are purely picture prompts chosen by me; they stem from my own creativity and has a slight Turkish twist to it.

I will let you loose to write in any genre you feel comfortable with but seeing we are in the month of October and Halloween is just around the corner, a slightly Halloween(esque) style would also be gladly accepted. Keep the word count to around 500 words (if you go over slightly it’s not a biggie -just have fun).

The deadline for this challenge will stay open for longer (just cause I felt like it); which means I set the deadline to midnight GMT on 21st November 2011 (I will be collating all entries in the next Challenge Issued: Triptych Tapestry which is scheduled to be posted 22nd November 2011).

I will set a prize for this challenge too, I will offer my beta-reading services and creative thoughts on design etc to one lucky participant (whose name I will randomly pick out of a hat); so, if you like the sound of that start-A-thinking -or if you prefer just take part, you will not be forced to take the prize if you do not want it.

Well, that’s all me for now -I’m extremely pooped (it has taken me a WHOLE day to write this -am so out of synch it seems!), so on that note I bid you all a sweet farewell, I hope to grace your screens on Thursday with a Topical Tête-à-Tête’, until then ta-raaaaa!

***

As you already know, thoughts and comments are encouraged as always -even if it is just a word -as ‘all good discussions start with just one word‘.

Pdf document: Sings Celebrate 100 Posts – Come On

If there is a topic you would like me to look into and explore in my own yikici-kind-of-way then please feel free to leave a suggestion in the comment box below or for those of you who are a wee bit shy drop me a line via my contact page or email me at admin[at]yikici[dot]co[dot]uk

Care to join me for some collaborative work or be a guest blogger? If so, email me at the above address.

October 10, 2011 yikici 14 Comments All the Posts on yikici, Flash Fiction Challenges, Goals, Networking & Motivation, Poetry, Words from yikici, © 2011-2012 Ozlem Yikici. 100, 100th Milestone, Alan E. Marling, Celebrate, Flash Fiction Challenges, Goals, Networking & Motivation, Milestone, Mosque, Ozlem Yikici, Topkapi Palace, visual prompts, Writing prompts

ROW80 Goals-A-Starting & NaNoWriMo-A-Decisions-A-Planning

Tricky Tuesday’s Treachery:

Dearest readers/visitors, as you are aware I have been (and still am) busy with spending time with my family who have flown over from Turkey to see me; this has limited my time and therefore I have been unable to do my regular writing sprints. This pattern is likely continue until next week. (Apologies from now). I will aim to do my best -though today I have noticed I am coming down with a cold/flu, have a sore throat (so annoying!) and my brain just wants to sleep (I’m doing my best to keep my eyes open whilst writing this). Anyhoo, the reason for this post is to a) let you know why there may be some silence at my end (as explained above), b) what to expect and c) ROW80 has started too…

(As always, there is a pdf document at the bottom of the post for those who may find this a difficult read.)

ROW80:

ROW80 has started this week (Monday October 3rd 2011) and I have been sooo looking forward to it. Due to my unexpected busy past week I have been unable to finalise my goals; therefore, I want to loosely write it here and once I get back into my routine (and feel a whole lot better after this pesky cold/flu) I hope to make more sense of the goals in my head. In the meantime, if you want to take part in ROW80 but are still unsure what it is all about then head on over to the ROW80 webpage, follow the instructions (not that complicated) and sign up.

that complicated) and sign up.

My ROW80 Goals (for now):

Write at least three blog posts a week.
Write and edit at least one short story a week for the short stories book I’m planning to publish by the end of the year.
Start studying Tiffany Lawson’ (The Triple Threat Behind Staging A Scene, Oct. 2 – 30) online course.
Read at least 3 chapters per week of the book I’m doing for the beta-reading.
Start working effectively with my critique group.
Think about how feasible it will to take part in NaNoWriMo this year as I may have to go abroad in November to see my gran (unexpected plan).
Visit at least 5 blogs per day and comment on at least 3 posts.
Attend the ROW80 Twitter Party on October 5th 2011 (health permitting). Why don’t you join us -further details can be found on Jenny Hansen’ blog.
Take two days off per week for family, friends and ME-time!

I will amend these goals in the next two weeks as I feel better and I fall back into my normal routine.

What to Expect…

I plan my next blog post to be on Friday (the final stage of the Fun Game: In Your Head), following that my 100th post should make an appearance on Sunday. I am hoping to focus more on writing my stories, and getting them published more than just writing blog posts as I have done in the last round. For this reason, I wanted to take part in NaNoWriMo this year but it seems the whole family will be coming together in Turkey to see my grandmother early November and I really want to go and see her. This will mean I will have to forfeit NaNo as I am unlikely to have a space to sit down and type away (family gatherings are always so hectic and demanding) therefore, I am totally undecided and torn, any insightful suggestions will be gladly considered. If I do take part in NaNoWriMo another thing I need to evaluate is my username, I signed up back on May 2011 with my alter-ego doodllz and now am wondering if I should use yikici instead. I held it to a vote and the final count came to doodllz 4.5 and yikici 7; I am thinking if I do take part I could always sign under doodllz as yikici’ doodllz -what are your thoughts?

I best end this post here, I need to take herbal remedies, get ready and be prepared to do some more sight-seeing: Natural History Museum & The Science Museum.

Have a fabulous day.

***

What are your plans for this week and ROW80? As you already know, thoughts and comments are encouraged as always -even if it is just a word -as ‘all good discussions start with just one word‘.

Pdf document: ROW80 Goals-A-Starting & NaNoWriMo-A-Decisions-A-Planning

Care to join me for some collaborative work or want to be a guest blogger? If so, email me at the above address.

October 4, 2011 yikici 4 Comments All the Posts on yikici, Goals, Networking & Motivation, Narrative, Understanding Health, © 2011-2012 Ozlem Yikici. Goals, Networking & Motivation, Jenny Hansen, Kait Nolan, Ozlem Yikici, Tiffany Lawson, Tiffany Lawson Inman, Triple Threat Behind Staging A scene

Earthquakes -How they Changed my Outlook (Part Deux)

Saturday’s Showcase Sketches:

It’s been a while since I shared a piece of artwork with you (the last artwork I shared was: Earthquakes – How They Changed My Outlook); therefore, today I thought it was the perfect day to display another painting from that Degree Show exhibition…

(As always, there is a pdf document at the bottom of the post for those who may find this a difficult read.)

Exhibition:

As you may know, the running theme for this exhibition was Earthquakes, their impacts and humanities hope… With the next piece I showcase here, I will give you a detailed account of the reasons behind this exhibition, in the meantime, I hope you enjoy what you view.

Öζιξμ

Mixed-Media, Oil on Canvas

Exhibited 2000

Degree Show, University College Chichester

***

What emotions does this piece evoke in you? With the little bit of information I have shared here, what thoughts has that conjured up (if any)?

As you already know, thoughts and comments are encouraged as always -even if it is just a word -as ‘all good discussions start with just one word‘.

Pdf document: Earthquakes -How they Changed my Outlook (Part Deux)

Care to join me for some collaborative work or want to be a guest blogger? If so, email me at the above address.

I Hear Voices – Fighting the Fifth

Voice Week – I Hear Voices:

It’s the final day of voice week. (Not fair! I was having fun. -Stephanie, you must organise this again ) There has been a lot of creative entries, why don’t you pop on over to here and check them out. If you have missed out on my previous submissions, click here (voice 1), here (voice 2), here (voice 3) and here (voice 4). Here’s ‘voice 5′; my entry for today continues with ‘The Fight’.

UPDATED: I have amended the below text; therefore, if you receive email subscriptions please have a re-read so that you enjoy the piece as it should be. I edited late lastnight so it was not perfect, this morning I was not feeling great so I could not check it until now; I hope this does not inconvenience you too much.

(As always, there is a pdf document at the bottom of the post for those who may find this a difficult read.)

The Fight – Voice 5:

“Hit her, hit her” it encouraged.

I refused.

“Hit her!”

My teeth crunched –I didn’t budge.

“Kill her” the voices said; they became two, three , four…

“Hit her”

“Kill her”

“Push her”

My fists clenched.

Her nails dug in deeper, skin pierced, lined, scarred, bleeding. It stung –my eyes, misty; I turned to leave; her fingers twisted my skin –my gut reacted as I spun around; my claws sliced her arm.

Did that just happen -or was that my messed up mind?

“Kill, kill, kill” the words swam in my head

‘Go away’ I wanted to scream, my eyes brimming; I ran up the stairs. I kicked it shut; it locked. With my feet I sunk into the floor, my scratched hands clawed my ears –the voices sang harder, louder into a deafening shriek.

“Hit”

“Kill”

“Push her”.

“Sweetheart, are you alright?” her soft voice filtered through the chaos of my mind. “Please let me in.”

I crushed my eyes tight, my fists melting into the floor; I mustn’t open the door, I just can’t…

“Hit”

“Kill”

“Push”

“Kill”

“Kill”

My skull found the door with a thump.

I mustn’t; not whilst they’re here, this strong; she’s safer on that side of the door…

***

So, that is the final voice for this fab-tastic challenge. What do you think of it? How does this voice differ from the last four voices (if any)? Do you have a favourite voice? Which one etched into your mind?

(I have not been able to pop by blogs and comment -still catching up with my family, I will do my best in the small pockets of free-time I have; I hope you can be patient with me.)

This is all from me for now, I’ll be back tomorrow with a Showcase Sketch (possibly an artwork or poetry -I can’t decide just yet; if you want to help me out, then by all means please feel free to let me know in the comments below).

As you already know, thoughts and comments are encouraged as always -even if it is just a word -as ‘all good discussions start with just one word‘.

Pdf document: I Hear Voices – Fighting the Fifth

***

Want to read more? Here’s a selection for you:

Like poetry? Here’s a couple of my favourites: Homelessness – Barking Dog (Haiku)

One of your firm favourite reads: Challenge Taken: Moon of Change – The Prologue & Epilogue

A book review: The Trust a Novel by Sean Keefer

***

Care to join me for some collaborative work or want to be a guest blogger? If so, email me at the above address.

September 30, 2011 yikici 7 Comments All the Posts on yikici, Fiction/Stories/Short Snippets to Read, Words from yikici, © 2011-2012 Ozlem Yikici. bekindrewrite, Fiction/Stories/Short Snippets to Read, I Hear Voices, Ozlem Yikici

I Hear Voices – The Fourth Fight

Voice Week – I Hear Voices:

It’s day four of voice week! There has been a lot of fabulous entries, why don’t you pop on over to here and check them out. If you have missed out on my previous submissions, click here (voice 1), here (voice 2) and here (voice 3). Here’s ‘voice 4′; my entry for today continues with ‘The Fight’ (the first one to be 100 words exactly -woo hoo!).

(As always, there is a pdf document at the bottom of the post for those who may find this a difficult read.)

The Fight – Voice 4:

So what if I pushed her?

Her eyes steamed,

Her lungs exploded…

My thoughts giggled as the pranks, taunts enraged her more.

My eyes strained to listen then danced as it peaked through the gap in the door; she picked up speed, engines roaring; she slipped. I began to shake as if an earthquake struck -a tsunami to follow; I let the pressure release, doubled up as my sides hurt from the hilarity of her response –always the extreme, a drama queen!

So what if I pushed her? She needs to chill out, let me be and forget about dad.

***

Did I succeed in creating a good voice? How did you find the voice; can you guess who this voice belongs to? What kind of character might they be? How does this voice differ from the last three voices (if any)? Tomorrows voice just came to me and I think it will be just perfect for the task at hand. *grins*

I’ll be back tomorrow with another post for voice week (the fifth voice for the same scenario above). So, until tomorrow, think smart and remember to keep smiling and staying-A-positive.

As you already know, thoughts and comments are encouraged as always -even if it is just a word -as ‘all good discussions start with just one word‘.

Pdf document: I Hear Voices – The Fourth Fight

***

Want to read more? Here’s a selection for you:

Love challenges -particularly Flash Fictions? Take this month’s (extended due to error on my part) challenge (you still have time to participate): Challenge (Re-)Issued: Turner’s Tapestries

Life inspirations: My Encounter with Fate!

One of the most searched topics and one of your favourite reads: The Joys of Nutella Cake –My Angst with it!

***

Care to join me for some collaborative work or want to be a guest blogger? If so, email me at the above address.

Penye mood kapri takım

September 29, 2011 yikici 12 Comments All the Posts on yikici, Fiction/Stories/Short Snippets to Read, Words from yikici, © 2011-2012 Ozlem Yikici. bekindrewrite, Fiction/Stories/Short Snippets to Read, I Hear Voices, Ozlem Yikici

I Hear Voices – The Third Fight

Voice Week – I Hear Voices:

It’s the third day of voice week! There has been a lot of fabulous entries, why don’t you pop on over to here and check them out. If you have missed out on my previous submissions, click here (voice 1) and here (voice 2). Here’s ‘voice 3′; my entry for today continues with ‘The Fight’.

(As always, there is a pdf document at the bottom of the post for those who may find this a difficult read.)

The Fight – Voice 3:

I noticed the cuts on my hands as I locked the door with all my strength; the pain singed through to my gut. I collapsed to the floor; tears crept down my face. My body shook as she pulled on the door handle, her fists pounding on my back; if I didn’t love her so much I would leave, that was my option but I couldn’t, I knew that, it was no longer a choice for me –it never was, I couldn’t leave her, not after what dad did to her. No, it was not an option; I just have to grin and bear it. This has to be a teething problem, yesterday was the first since dad left and now this… She’s only looking out for my best interest –well, I hoped –no willed that to be true. I gritted my teeth as I begrudgingly stood up; I turned to face the door, now was not the time to be afraid, I reached for the lock, she needed me too.

***

I’ll be back tomorrow with another post for voice week (the fourth voice for the same scenario above) and possibly a Thursday Topical Tête-à-Tête (all depends how today pans out). So, until tomorrow, have a delightful day -remember to keep smiling and staying-A-positive. You deserve the best in life so why don’t you take steps towards that goal of yours.

As you already know, thoughts and comments are encouraged as always -even if it is just a word -as ‘all good discussions start with just one word‘.

Pdf document: I Hear Voices – The Third Fight

***

Want to read more? Here’s a selection for you:

Love challenges -particularly Flash Fictions? Take this month’s (extended due to error on my part) challenge (you still have time to participate): Challenge (Re-)Issued: Turner’s Tapestries

Life inspirations: My Encounter with Fate!

One of the most searched topics and one of your favourite reads: The Joys of Nutella Cake –My Angst with it!

***

Care to join me for some collaborative work or want to be a guest blogger? If so, email me at the above address.

Yeni inci korse

September 28, 2011 yikici 9 Comments All the Posts on yikici, Fiction/Stories/Short Snippets to Read, Words from yikici, © 2011-2012 Ozlem Yikici. bekindrewrite, Fiction/Stories/Short Snippets to Read, I Hear Voices, Ozlem Yikici

Challenge (Re-)Issued: Turner’s Tapestries

Tuesday’s Triptych Tapestry:

I just realised I made a HUGE boo-boo with the deadline for this challenge *looks down and kicks an imaginary obstacle on the floor* I challenged you but set the deadline as 3rd September instead of 3rd October (I know! How careless of me -must have been sleeping or sth…). Therefore, to rectify this and give you a chance to prepare for this with good time, I’m keeping this open until 10th October 2011 (GMT), I will collate all the entries and post them with a new challenge on 11th October 2011 (sorry for the confusion). I have amended the rules slightly, so please read the details below (I will make amendments on the schedule page soon(ish)), thank you for your patience.

(As always, there is a pdf document at the bottom of the post for those who may find this a difficult read.)

Challenge Issued: Turner’s Tapestries

Every month I issue a challenge to writers and artists alike; to come up with something inspired by the prompts I select and -though it’s still early days, the response I have received is delightful. We are now into month three of issuing Flash Fiction Challenges -last month the challenge was Transparent Tapestries; these brave soul(s) rose to the challenge:

Sonia G. Medeiros’ story drew me with the opening line and then I was hooked; In Time -is subtle yet craftily written, a pure delight -a must read.
Radha Pyari Sandhir‘s submission is a delightful read, if you have not read it yet please pop over and read the vivid imageries of Hot Chocolate -it made me want to be a kid again!

Me, Myself & I -As you already know, I have combined five challenges this month and it turned into: Once-Upon-A-Time -it seemed too basic to write but somehow there was something more, have a read and decide for yourself.

Sonia & Radha thank you for taking part -I hope you both enjoyed the creative journey.

The rules are quite simply this (I’ve made a slight amendment to the rules, please read the notes with the asterisk(s) before submitting your entry):

“Being an artist at heart, I have decided my triptych prompts will be based with an art theme running through it. The prompts will have three parts to it:

Painting/Photography* by an Artist

Random lines of Poetry by Poets

An Art Movement/Writing Genre*

ADDITIONAL RULE

*I am introducing interactive prompts selections, please take note to where I have placed an asterisk (see above); these have one or more prompt types. Please choose a prompt (e.g., painting/photography and art movement/writing genre) and add it to the comments below, the majority votes will indicate which prompt I will choose from -if there are no votes, then I will continue to select as I have up until now.

I will endeavour to select the above through the methods used by surrealist automatism (this will involve selecting imagery by opening books/webpage’s in a random manner). You can choose any of the given prompts -or if you are brave and up to a challenge then use all three prompts! The choice is yours. Word count will be limited to 500-1000 (if it is slightly less or more I will not quibble).

If there are artists who feel inspired to take part with imagery or any poets who want to enter with poems -you too can join in -hey why not make it a mixed media piece!

**Please ensure you provide the link to your entry in the comments of the appropriate post so we can track your entry for reading as well as for collating in the next Flash Fiction Challenge.”

In honour of our busy schedules, I will keep the challenge open for a month. I hope this gives you enough time to ponder on possible creative works. May your muse inspire you always…

Your three prompts for the next four weeks are as follows:

Image sourced via: www.wikimedia.org

A few lines of poetry:

Just when I thought I couldn’t stand it

another minute longer, Friday came.

(Accounts of that have everything all wrong.)

Friday was nice.

Friday was nice, and we were friends.

If only he had been a woman!

-Crusoe in England by Elizabeth Bishop

Art Movement: none -for this month, rather than go along with an Art Movement I have decided to select a Writing Genre instead; for this challenge your genre is Comic Fantasy.

*If you are looking to enter with a Poem or a Visual Image then the word count is not applicable (having said that; fellow Poets, if you are generous with your words then maybe keep in mind to not over-exceed the maximum word allowance).

Well that’s the rules, the deadline is at midnight GMT on 10th October 2011 (I will be collating all entries in the next Triptych Tapestry which is scheduled to be posted 11th October 2011).

Enjoy and above all have fun!

In the meantime, if you want to see how the game I have devised is shaping up please pop on over to: A Fun Game – In Your Head (Part Deux).

To read my last Flash Fiction Challenge click here: Challenge Taken: Hansel & Gretel – Our (Untold) Story

I will be back shortly (today) with my second entry for this week’s voice week, if you want to read my first entry have a look at this: I Hear Voices – The First Fight.

Until the next few minutes/hours, have a relaxing interlude.

***

As you already know, thoughts and comments are encouraged as always -even if it is just a word -as ‘all good discussions start with just one word‘.

Pdf document: Challenge (Re-)Issued – Turner’s Tapestries

Care to join me for some collaborative work or be a guest blogger? If so, email me at the above address.

Yeni inci destekli sütyen

September 27, 2011 yikici 2 Comments All the Posts on yikici, Flash Fiction Challenges, Poetry, Words from yikici, © 2011-2012 Ozlem Yikici. Art & Arty Stuff, Artists, Crossing the Brook, Crusoe in England, Elizabeth Bishop, Flash Fiction Challenges, JMW Turner, Ozlem Yikici, Radha Pyari Sandhir, Sonia G. Medeiros, visual prompts, Writing prompts

I Hear Voices – The Second Fight

Voice Week – I Hear Voices:

So, it’s the second day of voice week! After reading various comments here and on fellow voice week participants I have realised there seems a different approach to how we rewrite the chosen prompts/scenarios etc… Therefore, I am intrigued on how this will pan out; let’s see what you make of ‘voice 2′ in today’s entry of ‘The Fight’.

(As always, there is a pdf document at the bottom of the post for those who may find this a difficult read.)

The Fight – Voice 2:

I slammed and locked the door shut as she ran after me. She shrieked as she slipped up the stairs.

Unwanted moisture formulated around my eyes -it stung like acid ‘for the love of all things good -get over it’ I thought as I switched on the stereo and yanked up the volume to its max; Linkin Park blared out,

‘Crawling in my skin,

These wounds they will not heal…’

a malicious grin now evident on my face as it drowned out her pathetic rage. The pounding on the door came through like a light rain tapping on the window. I lay on my bed, hands behind my head, laughing to myself –knowing how the irritation would fuel her further. Serves her right –she shouldn’t be meddling in my business; yesterday was one thing but today’s quite another matter entirely. I’ve had enough -she keeps this up and I’m walking.

***

Did I succeed in creating a good voice? How did you find the voice; can you guess who this voice belongs to? What kind of character might they be? How does this voice differ from yesterday’s voice (if any)? I’ll be back tomorrow with another post for voice week (the third voice for the same scenario above). So, until tomorrow, have a glorious day -remember to smile and know that the world is as good as you make it. All good decisions come from the heart, so treasure it wisely.

As you already know, thoughts and comments are encouraged as always -even if it is just a word -as ‘all good discussions start with just one word‘.

Pdf document: I Hear Voices – The Second Fight

***

Want to read more? Here’s a selection for you:

Love challenges -particularly Flash Fictions? Take this month’s (extended due to error on my part) challenge (you still have time to participate): Challenge (Re-)Issued: Turner’s Tapestries

Writing tips and ways to source inspiration… Recycling -but not as you know it…

One of your favourite reads: ROW80 – Round 3

***

Care to join me for some collaborative work or want to be a guest blogger? If so, email me at the above address.

Yeni inci toparlayıcı sütyen modelleri

September 27, 2011 yikici 13 Comments All the Posts on yikici, Fiction/Stories/Short Snippets to Read, Words from yikici, © 2011-2012 Ozlem Yikici. bekindrewrite, Fiction/Stories/Short Snippets to Read, I Hear Voices, Ozlem Yikici

I Hear Voices – The First Fight

Voice Week – I Hear Voices:

Oooo I nearly forgot this is the start of voice week! Luckily, I remembered (thanks to Billie Jo Woods) and quickly put together my first entry. We were given the choice to either pick one of the prompts they have listed or choose one of our own, I chose my own (not that I was trying to be difficult, it just felt right that way) so without further ado I give you *drum roll* ‘The Fight’.

(As always, there is a pdf document at the bottom of the post for those who may find this a difficult read.)

The Fight – Voice 1:

Tears began to sting my eyes; I clamed them shut, droplets escaped down my cheeks. My stomach jerked in several places, tug-of-war in motion as I realised what just took place. I covered my ears with my scratched hands as she screamed through the door, her rage ripping through every splinter of wood and clawing through the thin dismal walls. Her fists thundered against the door as I buried my head under the pillow, ‘please for the love of all things good just let it be’ I wanted to shout back; but I daren’t –not after what I witnessed yesterday and certainly not now; having rushed up to my room and locked it secure. This only fuels her anger even more –I know, but I will not step out –not until she calms down –and if she does not, I’ll just pack my bags; I’m sure there is somewhere better out there; the bright white panelled window looks very inviting now…

***

Did I succeed in creating a good voice? How did you find the voice; can you guess who this voice belongs to? What kind of character might they be? I’ll be back tomorrow with two posts; one for voice week (the second voice for the same scenario above) and also this month’s Triptych Tapestry Challenge. So, until tomorrow, have a fabulous day.

As you already know, thoughts and comments are encouraged as always -even if it is just a word -as ‘all good discussions start with just one word‘.

***

Want to read more? Here’s a selection for you:

Love challenges -particularly Flash Fictions? Take this month’s challenge (you still have time to participate): Challenge Issued: Turner’s Tapestries

Want to know how the game is developing -pop by and have a peak… A Fun Game – In Your Head (Part Deux)

One of your favourite reads: Copyright – What Do You Constitute as Ok?

***

Pdf document: I Hear Voices – The First Fight

Care to join me for some collaborative work or want to be a guest blogger? If so, email me at the above address.

Pierre cardin sütyen modelleri

September 26, 2011 yikici 18 Comments All the Posts on yikici, Fiction/Stories/Short Snippets to Read, Words from yikici, © 2011-2012 Ozlem Yikici. Fiction/Stories/Short Snippets to Read, I Hear Voices, Ozlem Yikici

ROW80 Round 4? – Count Me In!

Savvy Sunday Salutations:

Dearest readers, I am currently in the process of changing the format of Savvy Sunday Salutations –where I’ll be sending out salutations to fab-tastic bloggers alike who will be joining us here on yikici with an article of their own and a selection of questions I hope they will answer. This does mean that (sadly) Patrick Tulley will not be featuring here on yikici; however, Patrick and I are currently discussing options of setting up another blog more geared to philosophy and psychology with some elements of creativity (I will keep you posted as this develops). If you have any suggestions we’d love to hear from you and/or if you would like to feature as a guest blogger on the new site, let us know and we will consider it.

Savvy Sunday Salutations (with guest bloggers) will now roll out on a fortnightly (two weekly) basis; where I get back into ROW80 there will be weekly updates every Wednesday’ and Sunday’.

(As always, there is a pdf document at the bottom of the post for those who may find this a difficult read.)

ROW80 ROUND 4? – (Count Me In):

ROW80 round 4 starts 4^th October 2011 –and guess what? Yep! I will be taking part again and again and AGAIN. I had soooo much fun last round (and even if I had bad days the support was so great; my fab fellow ROW80’ers just inspired me to keep going) I cannot imagine writing without ROW80 and its brilliant community. If you are a fellow writer and are looking for that extra boost, join us for ROW80 Round 4 and you will see what the fuss is about… For more information pop on over to the blog Kait Nolan has set up: ROW80 – What is it all about? Alternatively, have a look at my thoughts about it here (ROW80 – Round 3) and see what I achieved in the last round –love the vibe? Thought so -now what are you waiting for! Quick sign-up here —> (Round 4 Sign-up).

I look forward to seeing you all taking part (if you choose to do so –I hope you do), in the meantime I am thinking up my new ROW80 goals and have also volunteered to be a sponsor (so shall see if I make it through the competition). There is also a party being planned to celebrate the close of ROW80 Round 3, check out Jenny Hansen’s blog —> A Party is Coming! A Party is Coming! So, there you have it. I hope to see you all at the starting line on 4^th October and hopefully you can join us for the Twitter Party Jenny is coordinating.

This is me for now, I’ll be back on Tuesday with a new Triptych Tapestry Challenge –oh and before I forget this is post number 91; so it 9 posts time a milestone will be reached. *jumps in the air* ‘yippie’ –if you have ideas for celebrating this milestone please contact me either via the comment box below or through email (see below).

Have a wondrous weekend –now I’m off to respond to emails and the lovely comments you have left me (sorry I have been a bit lax this past week –it’s just a wee hectic over here; getting ready for visitors (family) from overseas).

Want to read more? Here’s a selection for you:

Love challenges -particularly Flash Fictions? Take this month’s challenge (you still have time to participate): Challenge Issued: Turner’s Tapestries

Want to know how the game is developing -pop by and have a peak… A Fun Game – In Your Head (Part Deux)

One of your favourite reads: Copyright – What Do You Constitute as Ok?

***

As you already know, thoughts and comments are encouraged as always -even if it is just a word -as ‘all good discussions start with just one word‘.

Pdf document: ROW80 Round 4 – Count Me In!

Care to join me for some collaborative work or want to be a guest blogger? If so, email me at the above address.

Penye mood pijama

September 25, 2011 yikici 2 Comments All the Posts on yikici, Goals, Networking & Motivation, Narrative, Words from yikici, Work in Progress (WIP), © 2011-2012 Ozlem Yikici. goals, Jenny Hansen, Kait Nolan, Networking & Motivation, Ozlem Yikici, ROW80 Round 4, Salutations, Twitter Party

Challenge Issued: Turner’s Tapestries (A Reminder)

Tuesday’s Triptych Tapestry:

I was hoping to have written a Flash Fiction piece for today but I’ve had a busy few days and today my head hurts so I think I need a lie down away from the laptop. The following two weeks will also be a bit busy for me therefore, I am unsure how my articles for the blog will fair; I will do my best to plan and schedule as and when I can. If I fail to post according to my schedule, please be understanding; I will be back on top of things as soon as I am able. In the meantime, here is a reminder to the challenge I issued a couple of weeks ago -as well as the entries from last month’s challenge. I hope your muse will be inspired to take the challenge.

(As always, there is a pdf document at the bottom of the post for those who may find this a difficult read.)

Challenge Issued: Turner’s Tapestries

Sonia G. Medeiros’ story drew me with the opening line and then I was hooked; In Time -is subtle yet craftily written, a pure delight -a must read.
Radha Pyari Sandhir‘s submission is a delightful read, if you have not read it yet please pop over and read the vivid imageries of Hot Chocolate -it made me want to be a kid again!

Me, Myself & I -As you already know, I have combined five challenges this month and it turned into: Once-Upon-A-Time -it seemed too basic to write but somehow there was something more, have a read and decide for yourself.

Sonia & Radha thank you for taking part -I hope you both enjoyed the creative journey.

The rules are quite simply this (I’ve made a slight amendment to the rules, please read before submitting your entry):

“Being an artist at heart, I have decided my triptych prompts will be based with an art theme running through it. The prompts will have three parts to it:

Painting/Photography* by an Artist

Random lines of Poetry by Poets

An Art Movement/Writing Genre*

I will endeavour to select the above through the methods used by surrealist automatism (this will involve selecting imagery by opening books/webpage’s in a random manner). You can choose any of the given prompts -or if you are brave and up to a challenge then use all three prompts! The choice is yours. Word count will be limited to 500-1000 (if it is slightly less or more I will not quibble).

*I am introducing interactive prompts selections, please take note to where I have placed an asterisk (see above); these have one or more prompt types. Please choose a prompt (e.g., painting/photography, art movement/writing genre – my choice for this challenge would be painting and writing genre). I will pick an image/movement/genre from the majority vote -if no votes; I will use my regular selection process).

If there are artists who feel inspired to take part with imagery or any poets who want to enter with poems -you too can join in -hey why not make it a mixed media piece!

Please ensure you provide the link to your entry in the comments of the appropriate post so we can track your entry for reading as well as for collating in the next Flash Fiction Challenge.”

In honour of our busy schedules, I will keep the challenge open for a month. I hope this gives you enough time to ponder on possible creative works. May your muse inspire you always…

Your three prompts for the next four weeks are as follows:

Image sourced via: www.wikimedia.org

A few lines of poetry:

Just when I thought I couldn’t stand it

another minute longer, Friday came.

(Accounts of that have everything all wrong.)

Friday was nice.

Friday was nice, and we were friends.

If only he had been a woman!

-Crusoe in England by Elizabeth Bishop

Art Movement: none -for this month, rather than go along with an Art Movement I have decided to select a Writing Genre instead; for this challenge your genre is Comic Fantasy.

Well that’s the rules, the deadline is at midnight GMT on 3rd September 2011 (I will be collating all entries in the next Triptych Tapestry which is scheduled to be posted 4th September 2011).

Enjoy and above all have fun!

In the meantime, if you want to test yourself and the voices of the characters you come up with why don’t you take a gander at this game I have devised: A Fun Game – In Your Head. I hope to be back with a ROW80 update tomorrow (let’s see how plans fair), until then have a brilliant day.

***

As you already know, thoughts and comments are encouraged as always -even if it is just a word -as ‘all good discussions start with just one word‘.

Pdf document: Challenge Issued – Turner’s Tapestries (A Reminder)

Care to join me for some collaborative work or be a guest blogger? If so, email me at the above address.

Pierre cardin pijama

September 13, 2011 yikici Leave a comment All the Posts on yikici, Flash Fiction Challenges, Poetry, Words from yikici, © 2011-2012 Ozlem Yikici. Art & Arty Stuff, Artists, Crossing the Brook, Crusoe in England, Elizabeth Bishop, Flash Fiction Challenges, JMW Turner, Ozlem Yikici, Radha Pyari Sandhir, Sonia G. Medeiros, visual prompts, Writing prompts

A Glitch in the System

Savvy Sunday Salutations:

Dearest readers, I am late in posting this article today (I decided to have a few days off and now here I am Sunday morning trying to put together a post worth reading -hmmm; maybe I’m just pushing my luck a wee bit). I have some (very little) news from Patrick Tulley; we have not discussed full reasons of his absence, but it seems he has a little too much going on at his end, I will keep you updated as and when I know more, until then you have to put up with me. Last week I talked about JMW Turner; this week (due to the time-constraint I have restricted on myself) I will continue with Turner -well I just want to concentrate on that anecdote I had left you with; that story has stayed with me since A-Level Art & Design, I feel it’s only fair I give it some deserved dues.

My ROW80 Update will follow the article below –scroll down to the end if you do not want to read the next bit (I won’t take any offence –well, I’ll try not to ).

(As always, there is a pdf document at the bottom of the post for those who may find this a difficult read.)

LESSONS FROM TURNER -PART DUEX:

There has been many things said about Turner -and no doubt, many more will be said. -I know I said that last week, thought a bit of déjà vu was in order -you know the saying:

“A déjà vu is usually a glitch in the Matrix…”

-Trinity, The Matrix (1999)

-well that’s me all over; a permanent glitch hanging over my head this Sunday; this translates into two things:

1) I just have to put up with it; and most importantly,

2) You just have to deal with it.

For those who are asking, yes I loved The Matrix; very clever -it paved the way for the preceding films we’ve seen since -another forerunner in its’ industry; but today we are not talking about The Matrix. Today we go back to Turner; remember that little story I shared with you last week, here it is again for those who missed it:

“It has been said that, Turner would have himself tied to the mast of a sailing ship whilst at sea to experience the storms so he could relay it into his paintings.”

From this anecdote, it is easy to visualise Turner conjuring up these masterpieces:

Shipwreck by Joseph Mallord William Turner

Slave Ship by Joseph Mallord William Turner

Both very different -yet very similar; the dynamics vary ever so slightly; yet that change makes a remarked difference. In the first painting, there’s movement with an uncanny stillness in the darkness of the night sky -you can feel the waves tossing, the ship battling against the torrents yet there is an odd calmness which I cannot place; almost as if despite the conditions the crew and passengers are safe. Then the second painting, with its vague-blurred lines gives that sense of gusto, panic and drowning under the most beautiful of skies -an impression of a moment -possibly captured as the anecdote portrays, a man tied to a mast taking in the moment; being whole with its subject -whatever the conditions may be, ironic or otherwise… When we feed this idea into writing, we can see a similarity, -our characters. To get to know them, to really get into their skins we become them -in parts or as wholes (some through experience some through research); we feel their pain, their love, their angst’s, their drive. -When we are so close to our characters as Turner was to his subject; does that not make you feel that you have something solid, believable and writeable? To create a masterpiece one needs to be fully immersed into their work -they must believe what they create or else it will fall away like dust…

Finally, as I leave Turner here, I want to share with you the painting that made me fall in love with Turner and on the next ‘Lessons from Turner’ (this will not always be on a Sunday, so keep an extra eye out on Monday’s, Thursday’s and possibly Friday’s too), I will do my best to interpret the painting and add some insight on how a picture can tell a thousand words. Until then why don’t you analyse the painting and come up with your own thoughts.

Rain, Steam & Speed – The Great Western Railway by JMW Turner

ROW80 UPDATE:

If you want to see my progress-at-a-glance (from the first week through to now with all my goals -amendments included) please head on over to my ROW80-Round 3 page.

Overview since Wednesday: This week has been a bit bleh with regards to word counts for Becoming- Mystical Realisations, but it has been productive nonetheless as I have been thinking and plotting about how to devise the next chapter(s). I have to do some outlining as parts of the story had to change; so no words but some development on the story -albeit brewing in my head; this is a good thing.

In brief, here’s what I have achieved since Wednesday:

WIP word count: 0 /1,000

DiRosaYikici word count: 0/1,000

Blog post word count: 2514 /1,000

Combined effort word count: 2514 /1,000

Progress up until 11th September 2011:

WIP word count: 7,268 /40,000

Blog post word count: 29,618 /40,000

DiRosaYikici word count: 597 /40,000

Combined effort word count: 37,483 /40,000 (See the ROW80 progress bar on the side menu.)

Blogs visited (ROW80′ers & Writecampaign’ers): 37 in total

Beta-reader project: On Chapter Six (that’s page 26 of 204)

I guess it has not been a bad week per se; though I always hope my WIP would speed up more than my blog posts -I know I should not grumble. What with a slow start to today’s post, we find ourselves at the end of it, which means this is ta-raaa from me, I’ll be back on Tuesday with a Flash Fiction Challenge I hope to see you then.

In the meantime, if you want to test yourself and the voices of the characters you come up with why don’t you take a gander at this game I have devised: A Fun Game – In Your Head. Have a fab Sunday and a great week following; till Tuesday adios amigos.

***

As you already know, thoughts and comments are encouraged as always -even if it is just a word -as ‘all good discussions start with just one word‘.

Pdf document: A Glitch in the System

Care to join me for some collaborative work or want to be a guest blogger? If so, email me at the above address.

Kom mayo bikini modelleri

September 11, 2011 yikici 5 Comments All the Posts on yikici, Goals, Networking & Motivation, Narrative, Words from yikici, Work in Progress (WIP), © 2011-2012 Ozlem Yikici. goals, JMW Turner, Networking & Motivation, Ozlem Yikici, Salutations

Lessons from Turner & ROW80

Savvy Sunday Salutations:

Dearest readers, I know some of you are looking forward to reading more insights from Patrick Tulley, unfortunately I have been unable to get in contact with him (he may have taken a holiday and failed to let me know *tut tut*), I’ll keep you updated when I know more. In the meantime, I will open this Sunday slot to a few of my favourite bloggers and every now and again I will send some salutation love to people I admire in this lovely world we live in. Last week my grandmother took centre stage and today, as promised, I will introduce you a pioneer in the Art world, my first choice Artist of all time is JMW Turner. Those who know me will not be surprised with this decision of mine and for those who don’t, you shall soon learn muhaawaawaaaaah -or something to that effect.

My ROW80 Update will follow the article below –scroll down to the end if you do not want to read the next bit (I won’t take any offence –well, I’ll try not to ).

(As always, there is a pdf document at the bottom of the post for those who may find this a difficult read.)

LESSONS FROM TURNER:

Discussions from the past…

“Why Turner? Joseph Mallord William Turner (1775-1851) was and is still one of the most important British Landscape painters. My interest in his work began when I was doing my ‘A-levels’ at college. Although I had looked at many other artists in the preceding years, I have always come back to Turner, each time examining a different aspect of his work. Again, I am drawn back; this time taking Turner as a colourist, investigating how he used his colour and how Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749-1832) influenced him. Turner was a master of innovations, especially in terms of colour. I consider Turner to be the grandfather of the Impressionists. I believe he was a colourist ahead of his time and this is the theme I based my study on. I have investigated how Turner’s work progressed in relationship to colour and light. I believe I have achieved this by comparing Turner to other artists who have influenced him such as Richard Wilson (1714-1782) and Claude Lorrain (1600-1682). These comparisons have enabled me to show how Turner’s use of colour changed gradually from his early work to his later work. I believe I have successfully achieved this in my study by arranging Turner’s artistic career -of about sixty years, into three periods: Firstly, his ‘early-years’ as a topographical student (1788-1812). Secondly, his ‘mid-years’ when he developed mastery skills in landscape compositions as well as developing his individual artistic style (1812-1835), and finally his ‘late-period’ consists of working with the ‘sublime’ in an abstract way, using colour as the focal point (1835-1851).

In my study, I have investigated how Turner managed to create atmosphere using only colour and paint. I have discussed how Turner used mystical landscapes and why they were so full of light. I also aimed to find out how important Turner’s subject matter was to him, and if this changed as he matured. In conjunction to this, I have also attempted to answer the following questions: ‘was colour and light the only thing that mattered to him in his later years? If so, ‘did it take over the subject-matter of his paintings?’ “

…so was my opening chapter of my dissertation (thesis)… I know, I cheated *blushes* -I was going to write something new but as I was clearing through my boxed stuff, I came across my dissertation and thought it was rather ironic and apt that I stumbled across this whilst I was in preparations to write a piece on Turner. I re-read it (as you do) and thought the introduction chapter would best explain why Turner is my favourite artist and also it gives you a taster of what he is about… Don’t worry I will not be writing the remaining chapters of my thesis here -that would be taking liberties.

Dido Building Carthage The Rise of the Carthaginian Empire by JMW Turner

Today, I want to discuss another aspect of Turner that I find admirable -his work ethics. Turner started off as an eager topographical student, he studied hard and this, with his status allowed him a place within the ranks of the Royal Academy elitists. It is interesting to note that Turner did not care for this ‘pretentious’ gathering but he was shrewd and knew he needed to be part of them in order to excel and make a living out of his art. Turner kept in with the ‘in-crowd’, produced the works that would ‘sell’ -he was one of the few lucky (or shall we say clever) artists’ who actually reaped the benefits of his talents whilst he was alive. Turner was smart; he understood that in the society he lived in, his vision of light would be frowned upon, so he deliberately kept these out from the critics eyes (though some lesser shocking ones he did exhibit and in turn was criticized severely).

Turner had travelled a long distance where his career was concerned. He was undoubtedly, a genius in the making; he always seemed to be one-step ahead. He knew how to get the recognition he wanted and played along with the rest of the Art World to get where he wanted. He studied and persevered when all the critics were against him. His vision of light had opened up new possibilities of abstraction, which was evident in Crossing the Brook (one of this months flash fiction prompts) and Dido Carthage. With these and the vast amount of paintings/studies he Bequest in his will to the nation, Turner paved the way for Modern Art and its artists -especially the Impressionists.

There’s much said about Turner and possibly more to discuss; amongst which are lessons to be learnt. To get to where we want to be we must study; stretch our minds and abilities. We must not allow the critics to break us; if we need to improve, that’s what we must do; if we fall down we must learn to pick ourselves up as they say ‘sticks and stones…’ If we are ahead of our time (wouldn’t that be nice) -let’s take a leaf out from Turner’s book, let us embody our work, develop it but at the same time, work within the constraints’ of the industry; when there’s an opening in the market and our style is applauded then let all hell break-loose.

Before I move on, I want to leave you with one thought about Turner… It has been said that, Turner would have himself tied to the mast of a sailing ship whilst at sea to experience the storms so he could relay it into his paintings. Are you that committed? How far would you go for your artistic drive?

ROW80 UPDATE:

I have some update on Becoming, I am getting some more feedback from my beta reader, which is constructive, this has put me in a better mood. The additions I made to the story plot (I had to introduce some characters earlier than I initially planned to), seems to work better so that is good news. I was also worrying I was telling more than showing, but it seems I am more of a harsh critic of my work; I’ve been told the balance is right -yay; note to myself *must not be so hard on myself*. With this positivity and the reminder of Turner’s remarkable work ethics, I believe more work on Becoming will be in the pipeline. I hope that on Wednesday my WIP word count will rise *prays*.

If you want to see my progress-at-a-glance please head on over to my ROW80-Round 3 page.

New Goals (Tweaked & Lessons Learnt):

In line with my positivity, I am moving the goal posts (as the current combined blog/WIP word count is shattered -see below). My previous ROW80 goals will remain the same as they are working for me; I just want to add:

Aimed combined word count for the last two weeks will be 40,000 (I’m sure I can manage another 10,000 within the remaining timeframe -what do you think?).
Visiting and commenting on at least 5 ROW80′ers blogs per check-in -for huge cheers; lets cheer all together!
Visiting and commenting on at least 5 Campaigners blogs too (daily -may need a rethink for this, watch this space) -let me hear you say ‘yeah’ *grins*

It seems I have been concentrating too much on my blog posts and not on my novel -and my ROW80-Round 3 page has highlighted this clearly in black and white so I took heed and amended my blog schedule so I can work in some time for my novel. Yippieeeeeeeee!

Progress up until 4th September 2011:

WIP word count: 6,918 /28,000

Blog post word count: 24,850 /28,000

Combined effort word count: 31,768 /28,000 (See the ROW80 progress bar on the side menu.)

Well, that’s me done for today, I’ll be back on Monday with a muse or two I’ll see you then, stay inspired and if your down in the dumps, remember Turner’s fighting spirit and do not be afraid to explore your skills, you may be a pioneer like Turner one day. *Wishful thinking*

***

As you already know, thoughts and comments are encouraged as always -even if it is just a word -as ‘all good discussions start with just one word‘.

Pdf document: Lessons from Turner & ROW80

Care to join me for some collaborative work or want to be a guest blogger? If so, email me at the above address.

Lohusa pijama

September 3, 2011 yikici 11 Comments All the Posts on yikici, Goals, Networking & Motivation, Narrative, Words from yikici, Work in Progress (WIP), © 2011-2012 Ozlem Yikici. goals, JMW Turner, Networking & Motivation, Ozlem Yikici, Salutations

Challenge Issued: Turner’s Tapestries & a Campaign

Third Writers’ Platform-Building Campaign:

Before I issue you with another tantalizing triptych tapestry (I know, but please be patient), I wanted to announce that I will be taking part in the Third Writers’ Platform-Building Campaign (I’m really excited). The what? -I hear you ask… To tell the truth I had not heard about the campaign either -not until Anne-Mhairi Simpson mentioned it on her blog -Anne-Mhari thanks for the heads-up. Essentially, from what I gather, it’s a platform where writers of all kind interact with each other (similar to ROW80 but with no set goals -other than engaging with each other and building platforms together by sharing experiences and advice etc, etc, etc…). I am hoping this will teach me more and hopefully I will become more focused and network better and effectively as well as sharing my newfound wisdom with you all. For more information, please head over to Rachael Harrie’s blog.

(As always, there is a pdf document at the bottom of the post for those who may find this a difficult read.)

Tuesday’s Triptych Tapestry:

Sonia G. Medeiros’ story drew me with the opening line and then I was hooked; In Time -is subtle yet craftily written, a pure delight -a must read.
Radha Pyari Sandhir‘s submission is a delightful read, if you have not read it yet please pop over and read the vivid imageries of Hot Chocolate -it made me want to be a kid again!

Me, Myself & I -As you already know, I have combined five challenges this month and it turned into: Once-Upon-A-Time -it seemed to basic to write but somehow there was something more, have a read and decide for yourself.

Sonia thank you for taking part -I hope you enjoyed the creative journey.

The rules are quite simply this (I’ve made a slight amendment to the rules, please read before submitting your entry):

“Being an artist at heart, I have decided my triptych prompts will be based with an art theme running through it. The prompts will have three parts to it:

Painting/Photography* by an Artist

Random lines of Poetry by Poets

An Art Movement/Writing Genre*

I will endeavour to select the above through the methods used by surrealist automatism (this will involve selecting imagery by opening books/webpage’s in a random manner). You can choose any of the given prompts -or if you are brave and up to a challenge then use all three prompts! The choice is yours. Word count will be limited to 500-1000 (if it is slightly less or more I will not quibble).

*I am introducing interactive prompts selections, please take note to where I have placed an asterisk (see above); these have one or more prompt types. Please choose a prompt (e.g., painting/photography, art movement/writing genre – my choice for this challenge would be painting and writing genre). I will pick an image/movement/genre from the majority vote -if no votes; I will use my regular selection process).

If there are artists who feel inspired to take part with imagery or any poets who want to enter with poems -you too can join in -hey why not make it a mixed media piece!

Please ensure you provide the link to your entry in the comments of the appropriate post so we can track your entry for reading as well as for collating in the next Flash Fiction Challenge.”

In honour of our busy schedules, I will keep the challenge open for a month. I hope this gives you enough time to ponder on possible creative works. May your muse inspire you always…

Your three prompts for the next four weeks are as follows:

Image sourced via: www.wikimedia.org

A few lines of poetry:

Just when I thought I couldn’t stand it

another minute longer, Friday came.

(Accounts of that have everything all wrong.)

Friday was nice.

Friday was nice, and we were friends.

If only he had been a woman!

-Crusoe in England by Elizabeth Bishop

Art Movement: none -for this month, rather than go along with an Art Movement I have decided to select a Writing Genre instead; for this challenge your genre is Comic Fantasy.

Well that’s the rules, the deadline is at midnight GMT on 3rd September 2011 (I will be collating all entries in the next Triptych Tapestry which is scheduled to be posted 4th September 2011).

Enjoy and above all have fun!

***

As you already know, thoughts and comments are encouraged as always -even if it is just a word -as ‘all good discussions start with just one word‘.

Pdf document: Challenge Issued – Turner’s Tapestries & a Campaign

Care to join me for some collaborative work or be a guest blogger? If so, email me at the above address.

İndirimli penye mood bayan pijama

August 30, 2011 yikici 15 Comments All the Posts on yikici, Flash Fiction Challenges, Poetry, Words from yikici, © 2011-2012 Ozlem Yikici. Art & Arty Stuff, Artists, Crossing the Brook, Crusoe in England, Elizabeth Bishop, Flash Fiction Challenges, JMW Turner, Ozlem Yikici, Rachael Harrie, Radha Pyari Sandhir, Sonia G. Medeiros, Third Writer' Platform-Building Campaign, visual prompts, Writing prompts

Bittersweet ROW80 Goals Cherished with Love

Savvy Sunday Salutations:

It seems I have misplaced Patrick Tulley -or he may have gone AWOL; it won’t be long before I send out a search warrant in the meantime, I’d like to to take this opportunity to pay homage to someone who as had a great influence in my life -some of you may think that person is JMW Turner -but no (keep an eye out for him this Tuesday and possibly next Sunday). The person I have on the tip of my tongue is someone I cherish dearly and love to bits; today I want to talk about my grandma…

My ROW80 Update will follow the article below –scroll down to the end if you do not want to read the next bit (I won’t take any offence –well, I’ll try not to ).

(As always, there is a pdf document at the bottom of the post for those who may find this a difficult read.)

CHERISHED WITH LOVE:

We all have someone we look up to, love and respect -and many of us have more than just that one person. One of my special people is my grandmother, there has been moments where I have argued with her (when I did not get my way as a child) but many of my memories of my grandma is fond and full of warmth. She is a strong woman who has brought up four children as a widower, maintained her farm in her village (Artvin Yusufeli Kιlιçkaya), became a midwife to many children, earned the respect of her peers (family & community), moved around to different parts of Turkey (even came to the UK) -my first memories are from when she was living in Istanbul. A well travelled, well loved and above all a well respected individual who instilled good values into people’s hearts with her love of faith. Whenever I go to Turkey, whomever I meet; always asks of my grandmother and whenever she goes to Istanbul to stay with my aunt -most days/nights there are visitor popping by to show her their respects. I rarely see this kind of homage here in the UK (although I know of a few individuals who have a similar closeness with their family and community). My gran is now too old to travel (no one knows exactly her right age but last I asked I was told she was at least 98 years of age -that was a year ago); in the last few years she has began to show signs of dementia, though this does not hinder her inner beauty or her-now-childlike banter. There’s something about my gran that warms my heart and brings a tear to my eye…

My gran is also a feisty character (in a mellow-type-way -don’t ask, she just manages to be feisty but not, if that makes sense ). I remember last year when I was over in Turkey and it was the month of Ramadan (just like this month) -despite her old age and ailments, she insisted on fasting and at times refused to eat when dinner was ready. I guess now that the month of Ramadan is coming to an end and the feast festival of Eid-al-Fitr is upon us, my thoughts have gone back to my gran. This has brought out the love I cherish for her and also some bittersweet memories and because of this I have shared my thoughts and love for this uniquely special woman. You must have someone as special in your life; I’d love to hear your thoughts and anecdotes…

BITTERSWEET ROW80 UPDATE:

Since my last update I have not written anything towards Becoming (I share your sentiments exactly *tuts*) however, my blog word counts have amounted to 3071 + 878 (the ROW80 page -see below) + 903 (today’s post) -so that already over the 0-500 daily word count so I’m happy *cheers*. Although, there has been no movement on Becoming, I have created a page for ROW80 as I promised to do so; please hover over the Social Interactions tab (menu header above) -you will see the ROW80 section there. Despite the lack of word counts towards my Novel, there has been development on the written word at least -and taking heed and strength from my beloved grandma, I am humbled to say I have achieved a bittersweet goal today. How has your week held up? I know some fellow ROW80′ers have had tough weeks, but I am certain its being washed away as we speak and a new day-is-a-dawning for all, stay positive and keep on writing -I salute you all.

***

As you already know, thoughts and comments are encouraged as always -even if it is just a word -as ‘all good discussions start with just one word‘.

Pdf document: Bittersweet ROW80 Goals Cherished with Love

Care to join me for some collaborative work or want to be a guest blogger? If so, email me at the above address.

Bebek ürünleri

August 28, 2011 yikici 7 Comments All the Posts on yikici, Goals, Networking & Motivation, Narrative, Words from yikici, Work in Progress (WIP), © 2011-2012 Ozlem Yikici. Artvin, Becoming, dementia, Eid-al-Fitr, goals, grandma, grandmother, Istanbul, JMW Turner, Networking & Motivation, Ozlem Yikici, Ramadan, Salutations, Turkey

Challenge Taken: Once-Upon-A-Time

Saturday’s Showcase Sketches:

As mentioned in yesterday’s post, I have been working on this month’s flash fiction challenge -again I’ve tried something different and hope it reads well, I may need to re-edit at some point as I still see it as a possible longer piece; some more depth is needed methinks and also more work with weaving in purism… Anyhoo, I will let you be the judge on that also -so please let me know your thoughts and I’ll take them on board. Now back to the challenges at hand and also the lovely challengers.

(As always, there is a pdf document at the bottom of the post for those who may find this a difficult read.)

The challenge(s) I am aiming to meet are as follows:

Challenger No 1: Ken Broad (has serious magical powers) issued another fab picture prompt (see somewhere below) and his challenge rules can be viewed here.

Challenger No 2: Billie Jo Woods (always surprises me with challenging challenges -are you really trying to push my boundaries?) set the question ‘Where did I come from?’, click here for her rules.

Challenger No 3: Sonia G. Medeiros (I salute thee who’s challenges as well as stories are as fresh and compelling as the next one) challenged us to create doorways -here’s her rules.

Challenger No 4: Haley Whitehall (introduced me to flash fictions and now I’m addicted -so you can blame her -go on -I do ) challenge involved aspects of dreams and the various forms of it, for more insight on her rules click here.

Challenger No 5: Little Moi (couldn’t leave myself out), my rules (which you should know by now) are here.

For the ever inquisitive the word count is (a little over by) 514 (with the title it is 518). Enjoy!

ONCE-UPON-A-TIME

Once-upon-a-time…

Lyn

I always thought bedtime stories were made-up fantasies for kids. Make-believe as some adults would say… So, I never questioned it –not until today. Today I sit on a dust-ridden couch in a dark, dank room which smells of some vile, putrid fragrance which I care not to ponder too much on or else, I may just gag until my death comes –it’s my room they say; I know better, I know how their lies fall freely, I know what this is and where I am. This is not my home -damn my alter-ego for tricking me and placing me here; a re-occurring nightmare which I plan to end –I have hopes and dreams –I will find my way back to where I came from.

…in a world where two worlds existed independently of the other; opposites to a point they were identical –yin and yang in some respects; mirroring each other but worlds apart; a collision course set-in-motion, adventure in the air; our heroes, Lyn cursed Glyn for what he stole…and he for what she ignored…

Glyn

Serves her right for being so naive in her fluffy-white clouds, dreams of meeting her prince in some lame tower –it was all too simple, not a trick –she was willing it to be true –and for my part, it was; I am a man –maybe not of prince material, but a man at least. There was a tower –well a lighthouse if I must be exact –but a tower nonetheless. I will not be guilt-ridden for making her wishes come true! She saw her prince and now she can wait some more; I have no plans to return back to my rancid cell-of-a-room –she can have that all to herself, after all it had been created from the impact of her decisions in this world –now it’s my time to reap the benefits –not wallow in leftover scraps from her royal highness!

…Two worlds, where one makes decisions and the other accepts the options left with no choice –a world where their actions are shadowed by the decision-maker, a world where their voice cannot be heard…

Glyn

Who does she think she –the Queen?

I have a right mind to-

A lesson she needs and a lesson she shall get –there are rules to abide by, she should know –everyone knows; if there isn’t there should be, I’ll instil it if I must and then I’ll make sure the rules stick.

…a world where the silent voices fights back…

Lyn

I need to find that lighthouse where…-if I get my hands on Glyn I’ll give him a piece of my mind! I never thought I would be part of a tale –the tale of the ‘Distant Worlds’ where I am Trinity and he is Neo; a tale I’ve read a million times –how did I get here? How did I end up as a story, how did I fail to read the signs?

“Day 164: Cozied Up” by Snugg LePup (Image sourced through: Flickr)

…where the rules become stories, where stories become real and where reality is questionable by all except you…

The End.

***

It’s really bizarre how this story kind of unintentionally wove these challenges together(ish) on its own (not much planning here); some may be more visible than others (brownie points if you can spot them in the story). So the million dollar/sterling (doesn’t have the same ring now does it?) question is, how did I fare? Yay or nay? Any places to improve on?

Do you take part in flash fictions? Where can we read them? How and why did you start?

As you already know, thoughts and comments are encouraged as always -even if it is just a word -as ‘all good discussions start with just one word‘.

Pdf document: Challenge Taken – Once-Upon-A-Time

Care to join me for some collaborative work or be a guest blogger? If so, email me at the above address.

Çocuk bakımı

August 27, 2011 yikici 16 Comments All the Posts on yikici, Flash Fiction Challenges, Narrative, Words from yikici, © 2011-2012 Ozlem Yikici. Billie Jo Woods, Challenge Taken, Excerpts, Flash Fiction Challenges, Haley Whitehall, Ken Broad, Ozlem Yikici, Short Snippets, Sonia G. Medeiros, Stories, yikici

Challenge Issued: Transparent Tapestries (A Reminder)

Tuesday’s Triptych Tapestry:

For all you Flash Fiction enthusiasts, here’s a challenge for you to sink your teeth into. Two weeks has passed since I issued this challenge, you have another two weeks to think of a delightful tale to share with us, we look forward to your entry. Please see below for further details.

(As always, there is a pdf document at the bottom of the post for those who may find this a difficult read.)

The rules are quite simply this:

“Being an artist at heart, I have decided my triptych prompts will be based with an art theme running through it. The prompts will have three parts to it:

Painting/Photography by an Artist

Random lines of Poetry by Poets

An Art Movement/Writing Genre

I will endeavour to select the above through the methods used by surrealist automatism (this will involve selecting imagery by opening books/webpage’s in a random manner). You can choose any of the given prompts -or if you are brave and up to a challenge then use all three prompts! The choice is yours. Word count will be limited to 500-1000 (if it is slightly less or more I will not quibble).

If there are artists who feel inspired to take part with imagery or any poets who want to enter with poems -you too can join in -hey why not make it a mixed media piece!

Please ensure you provide the link to your entry in the comments of the appropriate post or allow for a pingback so we can track your entry for reading as well as for collating in the next Flash Fiction Challenge.”

In honour of our busy schedules, I will keep the challenge open for a month. I hope this gives you enough time to ponder on possible creative works. May your muse inspire you always…

Your three prompts for the next four weeks are as follows:

Maurice Utrillo - Sacre Coeur, Montmartre

Image sourced from: http://fineartamerica.com/

Three lines of poetry:

Roof turned transparent

And prismatic, focusing

That warm, floating lantern’s glow

-Lighthouse by Gerard Woodward

Art Movement: Purism and here is another explanation of Purism / as for the Writing Genre; I have decided to give you the artistic reign again (so ultimately it’s your choice).

Well that’s the rules, the deadline is at midnight GMT on 29th August 2011 (I will be collating all entries in the next Triptych Tapestry which is scheduled to be posted 30th August 2011).

Enjoy and above all have fun!

***

Thoughts and comments are encouraged as always.

Pdf document: Challenge Issued – Transparent Tapestries (A Reminder)

Erkek çocuk mayo

August 16, 2011 yikici 2 Comments All the Posts on yikici, Flash Fiction Challenges, Poetry, Words from yikici, © 2011-2012 Ozlem Yikici. Art & Arty Stuff, Artists, challenge, Challenge Issued, Challenge Taken, experimental art, experimental writing, Flash Fiction Challenges, Gerard Woodward, Lighthouse Gerard Woodward, Maurice Utrillo, mixed-media, Montmartre, Ozlem Yikici, Poetry, Poets, Purism, Sacre, Writers

Challenge Issued: Transparent Tapestries

Tuesday’s Triptych Tapestry:

One month has passed by since I issued my second Flash Fiction Challenge Triptych Trials; it was fab to see and read all the entries (you guys have done swell with the prompts given *cheers*). Those of you who have not managed to catch up with these delightful stories then please take a break and head on over to have a read. These brave soul(s) rose to the challenge:

Billie Jo Woods’ entry Defying Gravity swept me off my feet -no really!

Sonia G. Medeiros had me on the edge of my seat as I read Paper Aeroplanes -gripping to say the least.

Me, Myself & I -I’ll let you decide what you think of my entry St Pauls at High Tide -it was a joy to write.

Thank you both for taking part -I hope you enjoyed the creative journey.

(As always, there is a pdf document at the bottom of the post for those who may find this a difficult read.)

The rules are quite simply this:

“Being an artist at heart, I have decided my triptych prompts will be based with an art theme running through it. The prompts will have three parts to it:

Painting/Photography by an Artist

Random lines of Poetry by Poets

An Art Movement/Writing Genre

I will endeavour to select the above through the methods used by surrealist automatism (this will involve selecting imagery by opening books/webpage’s in a random manner). You can choose any of the given prompts -or if you are brave and up to a challenge then use all three prompts! The choice is yours. Word count will be limited to 500-1000 (if it is slightly less or more I will not quibble).

If there are artists who feel inspired to take part with imagery or any poets who want to enter with poems -you too can join in -hey why not make it a mixed media piece!

Please ensure you provide the link to your entry in the comments of the appropriate post or allow for a pingback so we can track your entry for reading as well as for collating in the next Flash Fiction Challenge.”

In honour of our busy schedules, I will keep the challenge open for a month. I hope this gives you enough time to ponder on possible creative works. May your muse inspire you always…

Your three prompts for the next four weeks are as follows:

Image sourced from: http://fineartamerica.com/

Three lines of poetry:

Roof turned transparent

And prismatic, focusing

That warm, floating lantern’s glow

-Lighthouse by Gerard Woodward

Art Movement: Purism and here is another explanation of Purism / as for the Writing Genre; I have decided to give you the artistic reign again (so ultimately it’s your choice).

Well that’s the rules, the deadline is at midnight GMT on 29th August 2011 (I will be collating all entries in the next Triptych Tapestry which is scheduled to be posted 30th August 2011).

Enjoy and above all have fun!

***

Thoughts and comments are encouraged as always.

Pdf document: Challenge Issued – Transparent Tapestries

Kız çocuk kapri takım

August 1, 2011 yikici 10 Comments All the Posts on yikici, Flash Fiction Challenges, Poetry, Words from yikici, © 2011-2012 Ozlem Yikici. Art & Arty Stuff, Artists, Billie Jo Woods, challenge, Challenge Issued, Challenge Taken, experimental art, experimental writing, Flash Fiction Challenges, Gerard Woodward, Lighthouse Gerard Woodward, Maurice Utrillo, mixed-media, Montmartre, Ozlem Yikici, Poetry, Poets, Purism, Sacre, Sonia G. Medeiros, Writers

Blog Archives

Savvy Sunday Salutations:

Saturday’s Showcase Sketches:

Sarahann’s Warning:

A Special Post & A Special Triptych Tapestry Tuesday:

From Humble Beginnings…

ROW80 Moments:

Challenge Issued: Triptych Turkish Delights

Tricky Tuesday’s Treachery:

ROW80:

My ROW80 Goals (for now):

What to Expect…

Saturday’s Showcase Sketches:

Exhibition:

Voice Week – I Hear Voices:

The Fight – Voice 5:

Voice Week – I Hear Voices:

The Fight – Voice 4:

Voice Week – I Hear Voices:

The Fight – Voice 3:

Tuesday’s Triptych Tapestry:

Challenge Issued: Turner’s Tapestries

Voice Week – I Hear Voices:

The Fight – Voice 2:

Voice Week – I Hear Voices:

The Fight – Voice 1:

Savvy Sunday Salutations:

ROW80 ROUND 4? – (Count Me In):

Tuesday’s Triptych Tapestry:

Challenge Issued: Turner’s Tapestries

Savvy Sunday Salutations:

LESSONS FROM TURNER -PART DUEX:

ROW80 UPDATE:

Progress up until 11th September 2011:

Savvy Sunday Salutations:

LESSONS FROM TURNER:

ROW80 UPDATE:

New Goals (Tweaked & Lessons Learnt):

Progress up until 4th September 2011:

Third Writers’ Platform-Building Campaign:

Tuesday’s Triptych Tapestry:

Savvy Sunday Salutations:

CHERISHED WITH LOVE:

BITTERSWEET ROW80 UPDATE:

Saturday’s Showcase Sketches:

ONCE-UPON-A-TIME

Lyn

Glyn

Glyn

Lyn

Tuesday’s Triptych Tapestry:

Tuesday’s Triptych Tapestry: