[Not So] Epic Love

January 22, 2015February 24, 2015michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

Could have been epic

Could have had a love story like no other

One that they wrote together

Imperfections and all

Graceful in attempt

But one walked away long before the other did

By not trying

Both wrong

Or so she thought

Dreams of a perfect world

Fairytales of small girls finding love so true

So young

What were they doing wrong?

What were they going to do?

A dream is just a dream

Holding out for a hero

She’d rather save herself

Maybe that’s her problem

“Have you fallen in love yet?”

She gets that question a lot.

No.

But there’s a reason

She has to believe

Have you?

Are you?

It’s so invasive

Seeking into a soul

Let it be

Let it find itself

Let her find herself

Put your judgment away

Save it for a another day

Don’t rain on her parade

Because she’ll dance right through it

Alone if she must

Hearing her own heart beat

reaching out to meet its match

Waiting for their hands to touch

But in the mean time

She’ll be her own heroine.

Be Your Own Hero(ine) 😉

*I do not take any credit for any images used*

-<3-

TV is BOSS.

January 19, 2015January 19, 2015michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

I dedicate this to my continuous love of television and storytelling. Television has always been close to my heart. When I was growing up we didn’t actually have cable tv in our home, so I was a big fan of FOX and The WB (turned The CW). But when I was in junior high school I fell in love with the Disney channel and all its gloriousness; and in walked Lizzie McGuire. I remember locking myself in my Cousin’s room at my Aunt’s house and just watching for hours. They had cable and I had to take advantage. Granted I got yelled at a lot by my mom for being anti-social. But looking back now TV was an outlet. An outlet to express emotion and storytelling. I may not have known all the way back then that I wanted to be a writer of television (and film) but maybe it was my gateway to a dream that would captivate my heart for years to come.

Then came along a little show called One Tree Hill. And this is where the idea of directing and behind the scenes stuff really became of interest to me. I was completely obsessed with this show’s story and its characters. I was interested in how they came up with the ideas and would often watch behind the scenes footage and listen to commentary. I was just as interested in what the creator had to say as I was interested in what the cast/actors had to say. My best friend was equally obsessed, we used to have weekly viewing parties and watch together. Gosh I miss that! Time flies! Anyway, that led to the discovery of fanfiction (which if you don’t know is a place where fans write fiction stories about their favorite characters on their favorite tv shows…and then post them online to share with other like-minded fans…) No I never posted I would just write them (pen and paper, the good old fashioned way). My best friend and I began writing stories based on the One Tree Hill characters and would exchange them during school. This I think is where my love of writing really started. So thank you Mark Schwahn for paving the way, and thank you Roe for being my first critic. 😉

TV allows you to feel.

It expands reality.

It’s an escape.

It’s a new world we get to live in and love in and experience that all, as a part of the show.

As the audience we want to see the drama unfold but we also want to see realistic aspects and bits and pieces of ourselves in these characters.

That’s how we relate.

The content has to be human.

So what makes a good show (not necessarily a successful show because I’ve seen some really great stories cancelled before they got their chance)… but what I think makes a good show is finding a way to fuse the two; to incorporate real life into this television dream land of sorts.

I mean television life is way sexier but that’s just because it has to be.

What do I watch you ask?

Well let me break down *my TV show schedule* for you…

Monday

The Fosters @8 abcfamily

Eye Candy @10 MTV

Tuesday

Pretty Little Liars @8 abcfamily

Married At First Sight-First Year @9 FYI

Chicago Fire @10 NBC*

Wednesday

Melissa & Joey @8 abcfamily

Baby Daddy @8:30 abcfamily

Chicago PD @10 NBC

The Game @10 BET*

Thursday

The Vampire Diaries @8 The CW

Grey’s Anatomy @8 ABC*

Scandal @9 ABC

How To Get Away With Murder @10 ABC

Friday

Hart of Dixie @8 The CW

Glee @9 FOX

Saturday

*NONE* I take a day off 😉

Sunday

The Walking Dead @9 AMC

The Talking Dead @10 AMC

Revenge @10 ABC

Girls @9 HBO*

*– means I try to keep up with them but don’t always get the chance. The others I make sure to fit in!

**Other shows I watch that are on hiatus/available on NetFlix

Finding Carter -MTV

Awkward -MTV

Faking It -MTV

Young & Hungry -abcfamily

Bates Motel -FX

Orange is the New Black *Netflix

Lost *Netflix (still have to finish this series!)

When it comes to storytelling I become a giddy school girl. Fangirling is for real. My favorite thing about TV and movies is their ability to tell a good love story. But I love TV even more than film because TV is allowed the time to tell the ins and outs and ups and downs of building relationships. I’m a sucker for a well-played out love story. I love the “couple’s timeline.” You know First Meeting, First Date, First Kiss, First I Love You’s, First Time…. It’s pure magic. And when two actors really have good chemistry on screen, it’s even better! I love watching it all unfold. I love the couple names, you know when you take half of one name and combine it with the other half of the other person’s name. Watching tv is when I get to become a fan again. An audience member again, (not that I won’t critique the scenes, but I will be able to enjoy the story).

I remember watching One Tree Hill and being at the edge of my seat or standing on my couch during scenes of The Walking Dead. I am very obnoxiously eccentric when I watch TV. And it’s not because I’m trying to be, I’m just excited about the story. I just can’t help it. I guess I’m just so absorbed, I feel I have to dance or scream to let out my happiness, lol! I really should be filmed while watching certain shows, because I am sure it would be hilarious. In fact just this week I was in a frenzy watching Chicago PD, yes it’s an action show, so there’s definitely that. But Sophia Bush’s (also known as Brooke Davis from One Tree Hill) character Detective Erin Lindsay has been having this ongoing flirtation with her partner Detective Halstead (Jesse Lee Soffer) since Season 1. Now we are in Season 2, and these two have yet to get even close to starting something. They had went out once, and decided they were friends and partners and that it wouldn’t be wise to start something in the work place. P.S. their boss a.k.a. Det. Lindsay’s father figure wasn’t gonna have it in his unit. So now Lindsay traded up to a position on a task force and she and Halstead no longer work together…so what do you think happened…use your imagination or watch this and freak the f out like I did. #Linstead. I ship them. I was nearly standing on my bed, screaming, dancing, climbing, and jumping… all the verbs. I was so excited to see all the friendship, care and flirtation that had been building for over a season be positioned into something so great. It was a tasteful love scene too, so props! The cast does a live tweet during the show, so I was literally a frenzied ball of tweets and screams. And now I sit here dying to know what’s going to happen with them this coming Wednesday. That’s good tv, that’s when you know the people involved know what they’re doing. That is what TV does for me. And you can call it weird or obsessive but I call it passionate research.

So I will continue being very vocal, I will continue to yell at my TV (same goes for scary films, I can’t go to see those in theaters I scream and do the running man in my seat.) My brother always laughs at me and my mom he says we are the best people to watch scary movies with because of our reactions. I got it from my momma. 😉

Notice my TV schedule as of the moment is extensive. It’s a lot to keep up with and I don’t have DVR or TiVo so thank tech gods for free on demand and the internet. YouTube is a godsend, haha. Like I said, I don’t call this obsession, I call it research. No shame. TV is where I wanna be. My ultimate dream is to write for a TV show and eventually be able to executive produce and create my own. I’ve been writing bits and bobs of one for years! Until then! 😀

**R.I.P**

to the fallen TV shows who got axed before their peak…

it’s just like they stopped and I was left wondering well what happened next? That is honestly the WORST feeling. As a writer I could only imagine how unsettling it would feel to put your whole heart into something and then not get to finish telling your story. I think that’s partly why my blog posts end up always being so damn long! haha.

Beautiful People -abcfamily

Privileged -The WB

Jane By Design -abcfamily *this one still stings

The Carrie Diaries -The CW

Manhattan Love Story -ABC *its new episodes were released on Hulu and abc.com and on demand. So maybe it’ll get a second season?

One Life To Live -ABC *oh my fallen soap opera

*I do no take any credit for any images or gifs used*

-<3-

What is “Sexy”?

January 15, 2015January 15, 2015michelleleighwrites 4 Comments

SEXY. It’s a term we all use. Thanks to Victoria’s Secret catalogs it’s a term we’re slapped in the face with…during the commercial breaks for our favorite tv shows. Often times used to describe someone’s physical appearance. You see someone walk by and they catch your attention and it’s like word vomit if you’re into cat calling and such (gag), for the rest of us it’s an inner thought encased in our own mind and possibly conversed to a friend walking beside us.

“He’s Sexy.” “She’s Sexy.”

But when you really think about it, what is sexy? What about that person, makes them sexy? Beyond that first glance.

I remember back in 2006 when Justin Timberlake released his very controversial yet highly praised and danced to; mega hit “SexyBack.” As the lyric states Justin claimed he was “bringing sexy back.” Because you know clearly it had left on vacation in the time span between his first and second solo albums. It did. Music is just sexier when Justin Timberlake’s on the charts. #Truestory.

Anyhow, moving on. I remember him doing the whole press round up during that time. Being interviewed time and time again, being asked the same questions over and over again. I wonder how they just don’t pull their hair out! Anyway, I can’t remember if he was on Ellen or Oprah or some other talk show and I’ve tried to find the clip continuously but have come up empty handed. But allow me to explain it for you. When asked what “SexyBack” was about and how he defined the word sexy, Justin simply stated;

“Sexy is a walk, it’s a talk, it’s a state of mind.”

And I have always remembered that quote because to me it was beautiful and profound on some level.

I think what he said is so true. Sexy is not defined solely by a person’s physical appearance. Sure it obviously contributes to your initial attraction. But that can all change once you get to know a person. Sexy is about how one carries themselves, it’s about personality. For me sexy is tied to class. Class is tied to confidence. Confidence is often rooted in the fashion you wear, in the profile you hold with the list of checks you embody on your life’s to do list. Confidence in one’s self is important but over confidence or cockiness is usually a turn off. You have to understand that no one is perfect, and you have to be willing to except opinions that may not coincide with your own. Everyone is different.

As a young woman I speak on behalf of us all, when our hair comes out right and our outfit is something we’re excited about, our nails are done and we (and by we I mean me) feel like actually taking the time to do our makeup, it’s an instant confidence booster. And it makes us feel good. The same way I’m sure guys feel untouchable when they put on a suit and tie or a tux. Ughhhh guys have it so easy….suit, tie, shoes, gel the hair, shave a little (or don’t…scruff is nice) and boom, done. But hidden secret; girls don’t dress for guys, we dress for other girls like us. I mean come on. Chances are your boyfriend doesn’t know a crop top from a regular top. He doesn’t get it, and it’s not his fault, it’s in the genes. So when I dress up I do it because I feel like doing it, and because it’s an instant conversation starter for me and my girls. Where’d you get your top? I love your lip-gloss. That’s basically what dinner with my friends sounds like.

Sexy is about what you wear, but it’s also about how you wear it. Sexy is about making them work for it. Sexy is about your laugh, your smile, the way you talk to people. Are you polite? Do you hold doors open? Do you pull out chairs? Are you respectful of your elders? Do you value a person’s opinion and thoughts? Are you a family person? Are you a good listener? What kind of music speaks to you? What dreams does your heart hold? Do you look past the exterior and take a deeper look? Sometimes when you do, you find the truth. Maybe it’s something that attracts you more, maybe it’s not. But that deeper look is important. Otherwise why are you wasting your time?

It’s easy to say sexy is defined by muscles, a six pack, cleavage, racy outfits, or arrogance. It’s easy to fall for someone because they have a cool car, or are able to buy you fancy things. But all of that changes perspective when you push pass the physical and materialistic items. Add class. Sexy is not without imperfections it’s about how you accept them and own them and make them work in you favor.

Sexy is about being who you are. And being ok with that. Sexy is about everything that makes up who you are. Your likes and dislikes, your quirky habits, your favorite television shows, whether you’re a wine or beer drinker. Or if you don’t drink at all.

It’s no secret that I’m a huge Justin Timberlake fan. It’s no secret that I think he’s sexy. But granted, yea that includes his looks, but it’s more about the whole package. And no I am not referencing his “D in a B” skit. So get your minds out of the gutter. I am merely stating that his sexiness is tied to more. Like his class, his gentleman side, his talent, his voice, his ability to make people laugh, his personality. Fame is a tricky business. We only see what they want us to see. So until I meet him for myself let’s just say he seems like a real nice guy. I just think Sexy needs to be grounded in who are person truly is. Because that’s where their heart lies.

Classy ladies, who always get it right…

Sophia-Bush-Tonight-Show-With-Jimmy-Fallon[1]

Sophia Bush; Actress, Feminist, Activist. Avid live tweeter with Chicago PD fans! BADASS.

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Bethany Joy Lenz; Mother, Singer/Songwriter, Actress, Writer, Feminist. BADASS.

Demi Lovato; Singer/Songwriter, Actress, Social Environmentalist BADASS.

Taylor Swift….that pretty much says it all. BADASS.

Jennifer Lopez; Mother, Singer, Actress, Executive Producer, Business Woman, Best Booty in Hollywood, Proud Latina! BADASS.

Selena Gomez; Singer, Actress. BADASS.

Emma Stone; America’s Sweetheart and all around goofball. Actress, Activist. BADASS.

Lauren Cohan; Actress. Slaying Zombies every Sunday night like a BADASS, (and looking flawless while doing it) That deserves a second BADASS.

247116C100000578-2901715-image-m-66_1420713175276[1]

Lucy Hale; Actress, Country Singer. This little liar may look like Selena Gomez, but she’s just as sweet too!

Tamera+Mowry+NBC+Universal+2012+Winter+TCA+z_fkLDH43Ryl[1]

Tamera Mowry- Housley; Mother, Wife, Twin, Actress, Talk Show Host, Reality TV Star, Business Woman. BADASS.

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Jessica Biel….I know I know. She picked Justin’s wife? I thought she hated her? Well I don’t. I think she is gorgeous (next to JLo I think she’s in the running for best Hollywood booty.) However, she also seems incredibly sweet and humbled. And I think that as annoying as it is to be a fan of Justin’s and never see him and his wife act like a couple, I completely respect why. Fame is scary and the more you let people in, the harder it is to take back your privacy. So I get it. Some things are sacred. Jessica Biel; Actress, Wife, Soon to be mother? BADASS. Did I mention I used to be obsessed with her movie Summer Catch?

When I sat down and tried to think of all the beautiful women in Hollywood that I actually admire, these are the first few that popped into my head. Not only are they gorgeous physically, but they are gorgeous on the inside too. These women are mostly singers and actresses, but also have a mind for business. The singers share their melodic voices and the songwriters write the lyrics that pull on your heart strings or make you wanna shake yo booty. (tally on how many times I’ve used the word booty?) The actresses help you connect to characters and embrace storytelling. They are serious, they are lighthearted, they are strong, they can make us laugh, make us cry, make us feel through their art. They can make us feel like someone out there gets it, gets us. The media will try to put them on a pedestal and lift them up making you think their beauty is untouchable but you know better. They are like us, like me, like you. They are women, and we relate to each other for that simple fact. Women are funny, and funny is sexy. There was once a time when women were cast on the side lines of comedy. But now we have Melissa McCarthy and Tina Fey and many more. Sexy is quirky. These women can go from posing on a red carpet looking flawless to sticking their tongues out or blowing a kiss to the paparazzi. Each of these women put out something into the world that paves the way for the next woman. Each of these women make me proud to be a woman. They carry themselves with poise and class, and they strive for their goals. They know when it’s the right time to show a little leg or a little cleavage and when it’s time to dress a little bit more conservatively. They know the difference between classy vs. trashy or sexy vs. slutty. They utilize their talents and voice, they share their gifts with us. They realize that as a celebrity they have a way of changing the world and making it a better place. They bring awareness to worldly issues. They believe in love and motherhood. “Sexy is a walk, it’s a talk, it’s a state of mind.” Sexy is beauty and brains, talent, heart. Sexy is you.

So….What makes YOU sexy?

-<3-

*I take no credit for any images used*

Writer’s Corner

January 12, 2015January 11, 2015michelleleighwrites 4 Comments

“Selfishly Humble”

Writers are a uniquely selfish yet humble bunch. We write to set our thoughts free. We write to make things make sense for ourselves. We write little bits of us and people we know or people we see around us into storylines without permission. We drag out inspiration from the slightest acquaintances. We write. That’s what we do. Yet we never actually consider or have the guts to call ourselves writers. Because maybe if we say it out loud, someone will judge us or worse we’ll judge ourselves for trying to achieve the nearly impossible; making a living off of writing. And yet here I still am, writing. And if you’re still reading this maybe you are too. So observe, feel, and write. Just keep writing. Even if it’s crap…something will come from everything you write. And whether or not you use everything you write doesn’t matter. Write anyway. The more you write the more you find out who you are.

-<3-

Happy Birthday or Happy Anniversary?

January 8, 2015January 8, 2015michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

So when I finally had the chance to sit down after all the holiday craziness and catch my breath, it occurred to me…that michelleleighwrites is turning 2!!!!!!!!!! So last year I said Happy Birthday, but WordPress calls it an anniversary so hmmm…. I don’t know what to call it? What do you think makes most sense? Anyhow, today TWO years ago I started this blog and it’s at a slow but steady growth and I am so proud and so humbled and so happy that I have been able to keep this commitment to myself and my craft. I hope you have enjoyed reading as much as I have enjoyed writing. So let’s keep it going shall we? Please feel free to leave comments during your stay, I would LOVE to read your thoughts! 😀

*For more of what’s in store for 2015 here on michelleleighwrites, read through my 2014 Highlights post.

Guys my blog is today!

Click HERE for michelleleighwrites first Anniversary/Birthday post.

Click HERE for my first post EVER!

So last year you guys got the first vlog on this very special day and this year I wanted to do one for you guys again, but I just didn’t get a chance to. But I didn’t want to show up empty handed so…I have had this little poem/song thing saved on my computer for quite some time, debating on whether or not I should share it. It’s a little scandalous, but I think you guys can handle it. 😉 I do this thing where I choose an artist and comb through their music and make a “song” out of it, but to me it seems more like a poem. But I kind of think it turned out cool, so what the hell….here ya go! The artist choice should be of no surprise… at all….

“The Justified Sex/Love Experience”

**Read before you judge…it should all make sense at the end.** 😉

Now it’s that time of year

That time when Summer Love is over

But I know that Nothin’ Else

And no one else is Right For Me

And no one is ever gonna love you Like I Love You

You got these Sexy Ladies all Lovestoned, My Love and it’s difficult to Drink You Away

So I’ll get my Dress On for you, checkin’ those Mirrors not once but twice, singing you are- you are- the love of my life

While I pop some Strawberry Bubblegum so we can Take Back The Night

I know it’s dark and the flashing lights are everywhere illuminating this Electric Lady, They all just stop and stare

But Don’t Hold The Wall, Dance and Let The Groove Get In

So let’s leave it all on the floor tonight, dressed up in your Suit & Tie and fly me off in your Spaceship Coupe

Because I’m That Girl, that Pusher Love Girl you sing about

Don’t be so quick to walk away, I can be your Senorita, I wanna Rock Your Body, make you stay, make you Cry Me A River, Only When I Walk Away

Amnesia you’ll wish for it Blindness you’ll pray for it

Because your Tunnel Vision for me has got you saying Damn Girl make my Body Count, (And She Said) Take Me Now

We’ll make a Future Sex Love Sound

TKO I really knocked you out, lying on that Blue Ocean Floor, I saw you

It was Murder wasn’t it?

I remember how you said to me Last Night, Let’s Take A Ride on the countryside, let’s just get away

It’s sad you see cuz without you, I’m Losing My Way

I guess What Goes Around…Comes Around, it’s true what they say

You lose yourself to me, I lose myself to you

Traveling to get back to…

Traveling Until The End Of Time

Trying to reach you

(Oh No) What you got, You Got It on

You Chop Me Up, you chop up my heart

Your love is Still On My Brain and I wonder if you remember that first night at the Cabaret

Gimme What I don’t know (I want)

That True Blood of your sweet beating heart

And we can start over and Take it from Here

Never Again will I lose you

(Another Song) All over Again will I sing to you

Until you understand

It’s Not A Bad Thing to fall in love with me

And I’ll prove it to you…

Strike a Pose

And we’ll bring Sexy Back (yea) for the world to see…

go ahead be gone with it…be gone with me.

See what I did there… 😉

How many Justin Timberlake song titles can you count?

What do you think J.T. …. Duet? 😉

Happy Birthday!
Happy Anniversary!
michelleleighwrites ❤

*I do not take credit for any of the images, gifs, lyrics, or song titles used*

Follow me on twitter @Shellbelle91

And I always forget to mention this, because I don’t post often, but I’m hoping to start working on that more, I have a YouTube channel too…Subscribe (if you want) for some video footage related to this blog! And once again Thanks for Reading!

-<3-

REFLECTION

January 5, 2015January 4, 2015michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

It’s scary when I think of how much time has passed since I graduated college. It feels like a century has passed yet it’s only been a year and a half. But at the same time it feels like just yesterday I was sitting in my screenwriting class listening to creativity pour from all angles, or standing behind camera one and focusing, or editing my college thesis video for hours upon hours. It’s crazy how when you sit back and reflect… the things you remember…or the things that never really left your mind in the first place.

There are four major lessons I still hold dear from four separate professors.

The first comes from my digital media professor, who was also someone I would consider my mentor.

Every time she used to ask the class if she could showcase some of our work. We’d all just kind of sit in silence looking around at each other nodding “no” ferociously. And she would laugh and say “You’re all a bunch of Emily Dickinson-s” This was also the same professor who gave me the push I needed to put two of my pieces in two of our school’s small film festivals where our peers and faculty could view them.

She would always say this, and I never really understood why until I realized it was because Emily Dickinson was very private about her poetry and seldom let it go public. It wasn’t until after she died that she was greatly praised.

The second comes from my tv studio professor.

Very early on he told us “I will ruin television for you.”

I looked at him and laughed saying “Oh I don’t think you will, I love tv too much, no one could ever ruin it for me.”

But I was wrong.

I now understand what he meant.

For most of my life I’ve watched tv as a viewer. Being absorbed by the story and it’s characters and just enjoying it.

But now I watch as a creator, a writer, a storyteller, an editor, a camera person, a director.

I find myself watching and saying “wow great shot!” or “wow this writing is amazing,” or “that transition was flawless.”

So yes professor, you did ruin television for me…in the most wonderful of ways.

But I still can be objective and watch as a fan at times…ahh who am I kidding I’ve always got something to say. (I’m proud to say I’ve given some very well thought out critiques in my classes…with the first professor I mentioned and she always gave me good feedback!)

The third lesson comes from my screenwriting professor. Who after choosing my script to be our final table read looked at all of us on our final day and said three of the most profound things I’ve ever heard, and they have always stayed with me.

-“Don’t take professors or classes that aren’t as good as you.”

-“Don’t settle for a job that doesn’t satisfy you.”

-“Don’t end up with the wrong person, that’s the most important of all…”

I truly believe that last one with my whole heart. Love is the center of life, of storytelling, of everything.

The fourth and last lesson comes from my creative writing professor, who, whenever we’d get a writing assignment would hand it back with a comment that said “tell it later.”

And the entire class would go through this and get so pissed, myself included.

I never understood why he would say that. I want to tell it now. The story is happening now, this is what the characters are feeling now. Why should I tell it later? What does that mean?

But now I get it. It’s the reason why so many shows back track in sequence today. *praise the flashback!* They start with dropping you in the middle of a story line where you have no clue where you are or what’s happening and then you watch and little bits and pieces come together and things start to make sense. And the story unfolds. It can be confusing as all hell, but it makes for one hell of a ride and a great trick to storytelling. So…. I get it.

Needless to say we can all bitch about college. And say it was a waste of money. I myself have often felt that way too. But when you sit back and look at your years there, there are certain things you’ve learned that will always stay with you. Things that better you, better your craft. College isn’t for everyone. Hell there are probably a million things I’d do differently if I could go back and redo it, but then again there are things that I wouldn’t change at all. Especially the lessons I’ve learned. So thank you to all the professors who helped me become a better writer, a more confident writer. Thank you to those who introduced me to tv and film terms and techniques and giving me the tools to be able to express my soul through video. And thank you for teaching me that it’s okay to bet on myself. Because those things are lessons you can’t get from a textbook…no matter how expensive it is.

Subscribe to my youtube channel for some video footage….let’s see if this is the year I get to really hone in on filming again. Fingers crossed!

-<3-

A Message To Justin Timberlake

January 2, 2015January 2, 2015michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

*** I posted this little tid bit on my instagram yesterday to honor Justin Timberlake on his incredible tour and I thought I’d share because it gave me an idea for a blog post.***

For the past 2 years I have gotten the chance to fall back in love with an artist who I have always admired. Ever since his video explaining he was ready to release new music to the release of suit & tie to the release of both albums to the tour I have been on this non stop wild ride. Over the 2013-2014 period I was blessed to have been in the audience for three of his shows and they were all phenomenal. Justin Timberlake you are a true legend in the making, there’s a reason why they call you the next Michael Jackson. Best of luck as you close out your 2 year tour with these last 2 shows. Vegas is lucky to have you. It’s been an amazing time making fun memories with this album…and I cannot wait to see what you have in store for us in the future. But not before you take some much needed time off! Pros need rest too. P.S. Congrats to you and @jessicabiel … I hear you’re gonna be a daddy 🙂 @justintimberlake

Follow me on twitter @shellbelle91

*********

Over the past 2 years Justin Timberlake has been touring for an album or rather two volumes that brought us hit songs suit & tie, mirrors, tunnel vision, take back the night, tko and not a bad thing, along with videos. To the many magazine covers, tv appearances and awards shows we finally got to see him nominated for his own music yet again and see him grace the stage for performances and acceptance speeches, to a 2 minute mini *NSYNC reunion. It’s been amazing to see Justin Timberlake make his return to music. Below you can follow my past two years as a mega fan girl for The 2020 Experience….or what I’d like to call the greatest return to music…ever! Wow man when you come back you really come back! Looking back at all these posts makes be feel so great, that I have them to always look back on and remember. It was around the time of when I started this blog, that Justin announced his “come back.” I had been waiting tirelessly but it was definitely all worth the wait. Read along and follow my fangirl journey!

He’s Ready…Are you?

The Year of Justin Timberlake *legends of the summer tour review* – did I call it or what?

The Justin Timberlake Madness Begins

Justin Timberlake…nuff said

The 20/20 Experience Review Tracks 1-4

The 20/20 Experience Review Continues with Tracks 5-8

The 20/20 Experience Review Wraps Up w/ Tracks 9-12

My 2020 Experience…Volume 2

In recent Justin Timberlake fan girl news… *2020 tour concert review including track list*

Get Ready With Me For, Justin! *includes 2020 tour concert vlog*

Love Never Felt So Good

Love Never Felt So Good Comes To Life

Oprah’s Master Class with Justin Timberlake

The 2013 American Music Awards

*It wasn’t all hugs and kisses though…but we got through it 😉

Nsync Fans Rejoice! (please be true, please be true)

Slowly Recovering…

“Feud” Update

Ok…um, found my soulmate

25 SIGNS you may be obsessed with Justin Timberlake ***uh ya think? 😉

That last one pretty much sums up this obsession and tops this post off perfectly. I bet you were reading this thinking “man this girl is obsessed,” well I already know that and I am fine with it, I have accepted it so ha! No shame here my friends, no shame. I think I called it when I posted my “Year of Justin Timberlake” piece….but it was more like 2 years 😉 So hats off Mr. Timberlake and the TN kids, thank you for the music, and for the memories, we love you!….now go get some rest…you’re gonna need it! Daddy duty will be calling your name soon enough 😉 (I know I know he hasn’t confirmed…but let’s be honest here people. More on that when he does actually confirm!)

Shout out to a man who knows what hard work means! 2 years touring the world, giving fans a true experience, I can safely say I myself even witnessed history in the making. Only having to cancel/reschedule at most a handful of shows due to illness, he kept it going night after night. He’s shutting down Vegas tonight for the last show of The 2020 Experience world tour. I was at opening night for this tour and I can’t believe he’s been back 2 years already! Go out big tonight JT…and then go soak in some Epsom salt hahaha (just try not to wait another 7 years for the next one, huh?)

-<3-

*I do not take credit for the Justin Timberlake images used in this post most are credited to Justin’s facebook and JustinTimberlake.com*

Here’s to the next chapter J.T. … can’t wait!

Kiss Me At Midnight…A Short Story

December 31, 2014michelleleighwrites 6 Comments

“Kiss Me At Midnight”

A short story

Soundtrack: LISTEN as you read 😉

Follow Aidan & Chloe’s New Year’s Eve journey.

#Dreamcasting

The party is in full swing the minute Aidan walks into the room.

Balloons, streamers and confetti are literally everywhere.

The music is loud and Aidan knows he’s walking away with a headache tonight and not the kind you get from getting drunk and hung-over.

People are either dancing or making out, there’s no in between, well except for a few loners here and there.

They are my bread and butter Aidan thinks, nodding along through the crowd.

As he looks around searching for the one familiar face he cares about, the crowd parts and there she is.

Aiden’s gaze finally lands.

He gulps nervously and hopes she doesn’t notice.

As Chloe walks towards him in her sparkly gold dress and high heels, her spicy red lips circle into a big smile.

She glides across the room like she owns it.

In the most modest of ways.

Without even knowing it she has been charming him forever.

And he wondered if he’d finally get the chance to tell her.

She stops in front of him.

“Hey you made it.” She says, pulling him into a hug.

He is speechless for a few seconds melting in her arms like a love sick puppy.

Much like every time he talks to her, looks at her, or is even in the same room as her.

It’s easy to admire her.

Although no one is without flaw.

To him she is perfect.

It was always like that.

Ever since they were young kids growing up together.

Ever since he thought she had “cooties.”

There was always something about her that stood out from all the rest.

In a sea full of normal, she was his extraordinary.

But of course he could never tell her that, right?

After years of conversations about their futures, and what they wanna be when they grow up, brooding over stressful school years, enjoying hysterical inside jokes, and being the shoulder she’d use to cry on while he had to painfully watch countless asshole boyfriends hurt her. Hurt her.

I swear even the idea of causing her any pain, doesn’t even make the tiniest bit of sense to me. Seeing her smile is my favorite thing in the entire world. And knowing I put a smile on her face, makes it even more worth it. Making her happy is what it’s all about.

But as Aidan’s mind begins racing, it occurred to him.

That maybe this was something bigger than the both of them…Bigger than he imagined.

It’s easy to call it love.

It’s easy to say that I do in fact love her.

But the truth is it’s on a different level.

A level that even Aidan himself can’t quite understand enough to even try to explain.

So I stood there across from her, staring intently I’m sure.

Contemplating will tonight be my night?

There was too much at stake…too much to lose.

I’ve been here before. There will always be excuses.

Excuses that stop us from going after what we want, or who we want.

But yet the wonder will always be there…so why not just go for it right?

I know I know, grow a pair, is what you all say…

But that’s easier said than done, trust me.

What would she say if she knew?

How would she feel?

It’s something I’ve always dreamed of.

But I guess in this case telling your best friend you’ve been harboring feelings for her all these years may not always have the outcome you want.

I have to prepare myself for rejection.

Although if I’m being honest; I think if that rejection does happen…it’ll stay with me forever…

It’ll haunt me and it’ll be impossible for me to get over.

So what do I do?

Do I tell her I love her and risk losing her friendship if she doesn’t feel the same way?

Do I not tell her and have it slowly bring me to the point of insanity…Zac, Chris, Malcolm, Ian…who’s next?

OR door number three; best case scenario I tell her and she feels the same and we ride off into the sunset like in those cheesy old movies.

I have to admit my cowboy standards aren’t up to snuff.

I guess no matter what I choose there’s a risk in everything.

But tonight she is mine. Not in the derogatory, cave-man kinda way…allow me to explain.

Back when we were teenagers we made a pact that if we were ever dateless on New Year’s Eve, we would kiss each other at midnight…her idea not mine.

Could you imagine my excitement?

But low and behold, to my dismay, (but not much of a surprise) she had been in some way, shape or form “taken“ every New Year’s Eve since we were teenagers.

But this year she is not.

Thanks to douchey boyfriend Zac….man I hated that guy, I wanted to punch him in the face every time I saw him.

You ever meet someone you just want to punch in the face? They don’t even have to speak, you just know they’re an asshole. Well that was Zac. When I met him, I knew I’d be picking up the pieces a few weeks later.

Nevertheless, she is free. Chloe is a single woman tonight for the first time in what has felt like forever.

And tonight, she is mine.

I know what you’re thinking….What if she doesn’t even remember our pact?

Oh don’t worry I am well aware of that and I have obsessed over and over it.

But she’s my best friend and she will remember.

I can feel it.

It’s my chance…It’s my chance to give her a glimpse of what we could be.

Of the magic she and I could create together.

Sappy I know…

Over the years she’s made me watch way too many chick flicks for my own good.

So with everything in me here goes nothing.

As I walk over to where she stands, smiling at me…

It’s as if she knows what’s about to happen.

I knew she’d remember.

The crowd begins to count down 10, 9, 8, 7, 6…

And before I know it… my longest running dream is a reality.

So I have to wonder…

Will 2015 be a year of new beginnings?

It kinda feels like it already is.

Cheers to hoping so.

-<3-

*I do not take any credit for any gifs or images used*

*Happy & Healthy New Year!*

2014 Highlights

December 31, 2014December 31, 2014michelleleighwrites 2 Comments

So every year has it’s ups and downs but….let’s focus on 2014’s ups. And how do you back track on the past year?….by scrolling through your social media accounts of course…ie: instagram! In 2014 I experienced some cool things, I experimented in my fashion, was introduced to some great new music, my interests in television and story writing has found new visions and new favorites and my family and loved ones come at the center of all that is good in my life and in my 2014 year. Share a look as I highlight my favorite memories of 2014.

**2014 Highlights**

(in no particular order)

michelleleighwrites turned 1 YEAR OLD!

Read about it HERE

Secret Society Poetry Video

Read about the video shoot HERE

Mysterious Attraction completed and I even made a faux soundtrack for it too 😉

Start Mysterious Attraction from the very beginning HERE

Read my Commentary HERE

Listen to the “soundtrack” HERE

Monologues & Dialogues/Short Story

Read “She Said.” HERE

Read “He Said, She Said.” HERE

Justin Timberlake at MSG in February with my best friend ❤

Read and watch a vlog about it HERE

My 23rd 80’s themed birthday party

…I’ve always wanted to live a day in the 80’s and now I can say I have 😉

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Also….my brother MADE me this cake…a quill pen cake…how awesome is that?

You can Read about my party planning & watch my birthday vlog HERE

And my 80’s outfit inspiration HERE

My brother’s photography from his trip to Arizona was displayed in an art gallery

Read an article about it in the Brooklyn eagle HERE

……so super proud of him!

My Goddaughter Sophia turned 1! & (we celebrated a bunch of her first holidays)

Michael Jackson hologram & new album feat. a duet w/ Justin Timberlake, you know I freaked!

Read my excitements:

Performance Review HERE,

Love Never Felt So Good Reviews HERE & HERE

& Michael’s Album Review HERE

Got hooked on Orange Is The New Black

The Walking Dead Post that got me through withdrawals

Read HERE

Experienced a real firepit and got to make s’mores and roast hotdogs in PA

…so that made a tv nerd dream come true #SoTheOC

~~New~~ *NSYNC album

Read my Review HERE

Watching Bethany Mota on Dancing With The Stars

Flower crowns

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Made this one myself! 😀

…cuz I freakin’ love them and have finally had the guts to rock em….#hippiechild

Handkerchiefs

….channeling my inner Rosie the Riveter meets Aunt Jemima!

The Jumpsuit

They have always been a fashion curiosity for me, I’ve always admired them but never had the guts to wear one so….Finally I decided to rock a jumpsuit and it wasn’t as bad I thought…. #itsallfunandgamestilyouhavetopee 😉

The new ‘do’

I seriously need a haircut again soon! Loved this look!

Style Steals

Demi Lovato

Sophia Bush

Central Perk

Mysterious Attraction Soundtrack

December 15, 2014December 15, 2014michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

What makes a scene even better than good dialogue and good actors, is GOOD music. Music can instantly inflict emotion on its audience and make them feel. I love music and I love how involved it has become in television and film. As I continued to write the Mysterious Attraction series, I was listening to artists like The Civil Wars, Ed Sheeran and Sam Smith. These types of songs and this style of music is what I could envision hearing upon watching scenes from Mysterious Attraction. That hiss of a voice and the heartbreaking words would have perfectly mirrored Lexie’s struggle to let love win. So with that being said, I thought it’d be pretty fun, to share some soundtrack options with you. Quick Disclaimer: this is all pretend. Mysterious Attraction is not a motion picture nor does it have a soundtrack coming out. This is just me being silly and having fun and dreaming big. I do hope you enjoy.

I had a little too much fun with the mock soundtrack album artwork….

but I do have to say this one is my favorite.

Mysterious Attraction Soundtrack Track List:

1. Give Me Love– Ed Sheeran 2. Poison & Wine– The Civil Wars 3. A Shadow & A Dancer– The Fray 4. Let It Be Me– Ray LaMontagne 5. You Got It On– Justin Timberlake 6. Style– Taylor Swift 7. I Just Can’t Take My Eyes Off You– Lady Antebellum 8. Slow It Down– The Lumineers 9. Do What You Have To Do– Sarah McLachlan 10. Go On My Child– Michelle Featherstone 11. Make It To Me– Sam Smith 12. Say Something– A Great Big World & Christina Aguilera 13. Say You Love Me– Jesse Ware 14. One and Only– Adele 15. Gravity– Sara Bareilles 16. In Case– Demi Lovato

Check out these alternate album cover ideas…

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Soundtrack 1 **************************************************************************************** **************************************************************************************** ****************************************************************************************** ***************************************************************************************** ********************************************************************************************

As mentioned in my Mysterious Attraction Commentary Post…I mentioned how one of the re-occurring theme is the color RED, and in my imagery I use a lot of Reds, Blacks & Whites. These are the colors I envision in this story. Which reminds me of a poem I wrote a while ago here on michelleleighwrites called Black, White & RED Love. Thinking about it makes me think of Carter & Lexie and their love story. Take a read! 🙂

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Happy Listening!

Catch up on Mysterious Attraction HERE

*I take no credit for the images used in my edits, nor do I take any credit for any music used*

-<3-

Michelle Leigh Writes

A safe place for the written word <3 New Posts Two Days A Week

Author: michelleleighwrites

[Not So] Epic Love

TV is BOSS.

What is “Sexy”?

Writer’s Corner

Happy Birthday or Happy Anniversary?

REFLECTION

A Message To Justin Timberlake

Kiss Me At Midnight…A Short Story

2014 Highlights

Mysterious Attraction Soundtrack