Eye Contact

January 22, 2019January 22, 2019michelleleighwrites 2 Comments

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So I’ve been hitting a wall, when it comes to writing blog content lately. I start a few drafts and then I get uninspired to finish, and nothing is feeling good enough to post. I want to keep to a 2 times a week posting schedule, so I turned to my 400 Writing Prompts Book, for some help. I thought this one was pretty good.

Do you think the eyes are a window to a person’s soul?

What does eye contact mean to you?

It’s funny I wrote a poem called Sunglasses back in 2013 when I started this blog, and it touches upon this topic a little.

I do think in some way, the eyes are the windows to a person’s soul. I think they are going to tell you how a person feels. If they are scared, confused, loving, or whatever emotion they may be feeling, it’s all there. I notice that for me personally, I value eye contact. If someone isn’t looking at me while I’m talking I feel it’s like they aren’t listening to what I’m saying. Although that being said, I know I’m guilty of doing this myself at times. Life happens around us, and distractions are constant. However, I also notice that sometimes eye contact can be difficult for me. During a difficult conversation, during an awkward moment when you don’t know your place in a situation or what to say. Or simply, when your brain needs to find the right words. I find that I kind of look off trying to come up with a phrase. I also have issues with eye contact when it comes to men- usually men I feel don’t know me well. I feel like they are instantly judging me. Sometimes, I feel this way while talking to women too, but it’s not that often. I believe in women’s empowerment. I believe in feminism and supporting each other. And I feel like women just get where each other are coming from. We all face those same weird life circumstances. We are sisters. It’s a safe space. But with men, especially with how they think differently they don’t always understand where we’re coming from. I often worry what they think about me. Are they judging me, judging how I look, or what I’m doing. But that’s a whole other conversation that includes feelings of fear, inferiority, nerves, anxiety, insecurity, feminism, and wanting to find a man that actually wants to listen to what I have to say. I feel like if I don’t look directly at them, then they don’t get to see those inner thoughts floating around in my massively chaotic mind. They just will think, I’m unphased./busy or even worse, they’ll think I’m being rude. But that’s ok, because it’s better than the truth. Either way it’s not super great, but I find myself doing it all. the. time. It’s unfortunate because I know that it can come off as merely uninterested and that kind of sucks. #PROBABLYWHYIMSINGLE HAHAHA. Avoiding male eye contact, (referring to male strangers/acquaintances not men I actually know or am related to) is something I’ve always done. I don’t know. I have to be aware of that, and check it. But I guess in some way, I’m still that shy girl that keeps to herself or her close inner circle. I’ve conquered many awkward moments in my life and I’m really good at filling awkward silence, and conversation. But sometimes I just feel like with certain people, I’m not myself. Or if I am myself, it doesn’t match up with them. Well there you go, that’s some real deal truth for you. However, sometimes eyes are just eyes. And we don’t have to over think every glance or conversation. Do you know how many times I’ve dazed off and then realized the person across from me probably thought I was starring them down. Resting bitch eyes, are a thing too, I guess. So you never really know what someone is really thinking while they are looking/not looking at you. So what’s your take…

How do you feel about eye contact?

Do you find it easy as pie or do you view it as something

deeper like a window leading to your soul?

-<3-

New Year Themed Short Story Collection

January 14, 2019January 14, 2019michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

While I work on a new short story series coming your way soon, (currently titled Crazy Stalker Love). I really wanted to share some oldies that resonate for this time of year. Enjoy!

Crazy Stalker Love

COMING SOON!

CLICK THE TITLES TO READ!!!

Kiss Me At Midnight…A Short Story [2014]

kiss me at midnight Summary: Aiden has always had deep feelings for his best friend Chloe. But Chloe has always had another guy in her life, which made it impossible for Aiden to tell her. As kids they made a pact that if ever one New Year’s Eve they were both single, that they would be each other’s midnight kiss. Tonight. Chloe is single. And Aiden may just make his move? Will they take their relationship further than friendship? Will Aiden chicken out? Will Chloe even feel the same way? Read and see!

What are you doing New Year’s Eve? [2015]

what are you doing new year's eve

Summary: One Year Later…we check in on Aiden and Chloe. Are they together or not? Did they take the leap and make it work or not? Read and see!

For Old Times’ Sake [2015] for old times' sake
Summary: Lennox has convinced herself that the pop culture phenomenon that has become the New Year’s Clean slate isn’t for her. She stays in and keeps to herself often. However, what will happen one night when her sister drags her to a swanky exclusive Manhattan Party, where she meets a very charming bartender named Brady. Will he be able to change her mind? Will this pessimist find her prince or is she destined to stay in one New Year’s Eve every year?

*I do not take credit for the images used in my edits.*

-<3-

2018 Highlights- Year in Review

January 2, 2019michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

This past year, I actually didn’t end up using a memory jar. It kind of became more of a flower vase and I forgot about it. But as usual, instagram and this blog were definitely helpful in my yearly reflection.

Here are my 2018 Highlights

(in no particular order)

Justin Timberlake released his new Album Man of the Woods and I bought tickets to see him in October. (However as you may know from my fangirl report the show was postponed due to bruised vocal chords. It was rescheduled for January 31st (his birthday) so let’s hope it sticks and I get to start my 2019 off with my fav babe!) He also released a summer single too- Soulmate. It’s fire!

MLW turned 5 years old! This blog has been with me through so many ups and downs. I have taken month(s) long hiatus’ and have gone MIA many times, and I’m sure it will happen this year too. But I always come back! And it means a lot to me to have this outlet. To have “a safe place for the written word.” We also got our own domain this year-michelleleighwrites.com

I took up Jewelry Making in order to teach a class at work and I realized I do really enjoy it. For some one who loves accessories and loves jewelry, it’s cool to have pieces that I created myself. When people say that’s so pretty, I can say “Thanks, I made it!” I’m hoping this year to get my own Jewelry supplies and make a hobby out of it!

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We started many new family traditions, now that we have a 6th person at our usual table of five. My baby niece turned one and she’s learning so many new things, it’s so amazing and so exciting to watch her grow. Holidays are sweeter now that she’s here and we were able to celebrate many of her first holidays this year too. And as usual so many other special family moments with our extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins, etc. I also got to take my mom to see Summer (the donna summer’s musical) and help out with a mother’s day photoshoot for my sister in law, my brother is a photographer and he wanted me to shoot some behind the scenes footage for him, so that he could make a montage video.)

Jack & Elizabeth’s Wedding on When Calls The Heart. This show is so magical. (Except SPOILER ALERT the actor playing Jack decided to leave and so they had to kill off his character just shortly after the characters got married. So Elizabeth was left a pregnant window. It still breaks my heart so much. But I’ve been watching reruns on Netflix of earlier seasons of their courtship and I can’t help but love this show. It is so full of strength and hope and grace. And these women are fierce as they come.) Despite the heartache, the wedding was absolutely beautiful and when it comes to TV viewing parties and themes, I can be pretty “extra.” I learned to sew in order to make my own custom WCTH tee and had a cup of tea and some pie in honor of the special occasion. I still don’t have the Hallmark channel so I totally bugged my brother and watched at his house. The show did the wedding right, they even had a invitation that you can rsvp to, pick your meal choice and request a song. Hallmark still has a full wedding album up too. Such beautiful pictures, Elizabeth looked gorgeous and their vows were breathtaking.

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^In other tv related news (because you know me, I’m a TV fan girl) I fell in love with the show The Resident on FOX and the Netflix film- To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before (it’s getting a sequel!)

I had a lot good times with friends (fell in love with a new tea spot, tried hot pot for the first time, had a few brunch meals, tried frose, and braved karaoke, etc)-work friends, high school friends, old friends, new friends! Caught up with some middle school friends I haven’t seen in a while. We actually were able to get in two visits this year, so we are doing really well, considering we are all always so busy- one is a mom and one is always traveling, so I’m so happy we made it work! My best friend got married and I was one of her maid of honors, so we got to do all the things-the shower, the bachelorette party (which was epic thanks to me and my co maid of honor), the rehearsal, and the wedding. It was all magical! And they are a beautiful couple.

*NSYNC got their star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, on “It’s Gonna Be May” Day (April 30th) and it was broadcasted live for all to watch. I totally did, and I may or may not have bought a few *NSYNC merch tees, they are being sold in stores like target, and spencer’s/hot topic, but also on *NSYNC’s official site! The guys were also on Ellen!

So I was kind of in fangirl heaven!

I hosted a 90’s theme Girls Night In for my best friend, as our own little bestie send off before her wedding. It was A BLAST. I love nostalgia and I LOVE the 90’s. Butterfly clips, chokers, and blue eyeshadow, OH MY! 😉

My family participated in our first Alzheimer’s walk in honor of my Grandma who passed away in February of 2017. We all had t-shirts and it was a beautiful day, honoring someone we all really miss and love. We raised well over what our goal was! Thanks to my Aunt and Uncle who organized it all, and to all who donated. Our hearts are full!

I did BLOGTOBER– blogged the entire month of October! My fall was so full of all the Halloween, Pumpkin things!

I participated in my first ever #NaNoWriMo– National Novel Writing Month (November) October and November were very busy for me, it made me really proud to be able to write so consistently and meet my goals.

I continued writing my short story series- Move that I started at the end of 2017, but still have to continue and finish it this year. I also started another short story series that has yet to be finished and posted- tentatively called Crazy Stalker Love. (STAY TUNED! for all of the stories to come!)

Crazy Stalker Love Sneak Peek-

I had a list of over 60 great memories for this past year, so I guess it was a really good one. So I can’t complain. But in the interest of time, I chose a few. Thanks for the memories 2018, I am very blessed. I look forward to all the magic ahead in 2019.

Happy New Year friends!

May all your hopes and dreams come true!

Stay Tuned for much more content this year.

So many stories to tell!

-<3-

NaNoWriMo Update- Days 1-5

November 6, 2018November 6, 2018michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

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Day 1

Word Goal: 1,667

Word Count: 1,680

*Extra 13 words!

Day 2

Word Goal: 3,334

Word Count: 3,376

*Extra 42 words!

Day 3

Word Goal: 5,001

Word Count: 5,172

*Extra 171 words!

Day 4

Word Goal: 6,668

Word Count: 6,875

*Extra 207 words!

Day 5

Word Goal: 8,335

Word Count: 8,376

*Extra 41 words!

Notes/Things I’m learning along the way:

My first 5 days of November NaNoWriMo, went surprisingly well. I have a notebook, I dedicated to Nano. Filled with summaries, plot points, dialogue pieces, character names and backstories, my daily word goal tracker, and other helpful tools for this month. I created Daily Reports to keep track of things- like how I progress, if I meet my word count goal, if I exceed it, the times I write, how long it takes me. I also keep track of any distractions that may have come up and where I left off (including character intros, and recurring ideas) and a note for maybe where I want to go next. So that when I pick back up for the next day, I wouldn’t have to re-read everything before.

I noticed that if I block out the hours of 9-11 AM, I can clock in my word count in about an hour and a half. I usually have my head phones playing some simple instrumental music, sitting at my kitchen table, and maybe making a cup of tea before. So far that’s my writing routine.

It has worked rather nicely for me and I am proud to say, I am making great progress, for this being my first “unofficial” go at NaNoWriMo!

I wanted to throw a quick update up here (it was supposed to go up yesterday) but things have been kind of crazy lately, so today it is!

For more day to day Nano updates follow me on Insta!

Happy Writing!

Is any one else participating in NaNoWriMo or taking on the 30 day

challenge on their own? How’s it going?

*I do not take credit for the images used.*

-<3-

#BLOGTOBER Recap

November 1, 2018November 1, 2018michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

I blogged for the entire month of November. I started off strong. I usually do, and I had some blogs lined up and ready to go. But as the month went on it did become more difficult to post regularly. However, I made it work, just like I did for BLOGMAS!

Having done that last year definitely made me more sure of myself going into this year’s month long blog adventure.

BLOGTOBER

Sure, there were a few times that I lacked the inspiration, and some posts were fillers. Sometimes I had to search for prompts online to help stir up an idea. It happens to the best of us. Sure, there were times that I was rushing to post something before midnight. I didn’t always get my social media posts up on time either, but they did go up regardless. But each blog post went up on time! All 31 of them. And I am super proud. I also was consistent in posting to my blog social accounts, which is always grueling, but I had a bit of a system and made it work.

For the most part this challenge made me stronger. It made me create a bit of a writing routine, it made me more in touch with needing to make time for my writing and learning to be sure to make it a priority. It’s definitely a balancing act, but I am working on it.

There were various times I was visiting family and had to excuse myself to get a post up, or I had something going on and had to jot down a post on my phone notes for later. It was crazy. But I did it. I knew I wanted to, and that I would make it to my 31 day mark. I had much more faith and certainty in myself this time, than I did last year during BLOGMAS.

So with that being said, I am onto my next writing venture- NaNoWriMo [See: BLOGTOBER DAY 31] I definitely believe I have more confidence in taking on this journey because I just gained all this writing motivation and routine building from BLOGTOBER. Day 1 was actually really good! Stay Tuned for updates on that.

See you Monday- MLW has now returned to it’s regular Monday/Thursday schedule.

And if you missed any of BLOGTOBER…check out the recap below!

***BLOGTOBER 2018***

BLOGTOBER Day 1- An Update & Announcing #BLOGTOBER

BLOGTOBER Day 2- My 2018 Fall Bucket List

BLOGTOBER Day 3- My Fall 2018 TV Schedule

BLOGTOBER Day 4- Fall Haul- Treats, Teas, & Décor

BLOGTOBER Day 5- Where to find the best Halloween Movie Marathons

BLOGTOBER Day 6- Witchy Reboots…

BLOGTOBER Day 7- Where to find the best Halloween Movie Marathons Part 2

BLOGTOBER Day 8- It’s October again…

BLOGTOBER Day 9- Pumpkin Picking with the Family plus mini Fall Haul #2

BLOGTOBER Day 10- Stranger Things Themed Party

BLOGTOBER Day 11- MLW Halloween Themed Shorts Collection

BLOGTOBER Day 12- A Cheesy Fall Poem 😉

BLOGTOBER Day 13- A Fall Memory

BLOGTOBER Day 14- Fall Themed Gift Basket Idea

BLOGTOBER Day 15- Jewelry Making Tutorial- Memory Wire Bracelet

BLOGTOBER Day 16- TV Shows to Binge watch in the Fall Season that will give you a little spook…

BLOGTOBER Day 17- Some Recipes for the Fall Season

BLOGTOBER Day 18- Fall Mix [Middle School/High School Edition]

BLOGTOBER Day 19- The Jack-o-lantern

BLOGTOBER Day 20- Fall Smoothie Recipe

BLOGTOBER Day 21- On Halloween Night- A Poem

BLOGTOBER Day 22- Love Potion

BLOGTOBER Day 23- Fangirl Report: J.T. Edition (Who else?)

BLOGTOBER Day 24- Fall Fashion- Concert Style

BLOGTOBER Day 25- “Head Over Heels”- An Original Short Horror Script

BLOGTOBER Day 26- “Head Over Heels”- Commentary

BLOGTOBER Day 27- Creating this year’s Pumpkin Character

BLOGTOBER Day 28- Purple/Green/Black Rocker Chic Witch Costume Idea

BLOGTOBER Day 29- Michael Jackson’s “Thriller”- A Film Muse

BLOGTOBER Day 30- Fall 2018 Bucket List Update

BLOGTOBER Day 31- Exciting Announcement!

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-<3-

#BLOGTOBER Day 31- Exciting Announcement!

October 31, 2018October 31, 2018michelleleighwrites 3 Comments

Day 31. I made it! I can’t believe I blogged everyday for a month! I feel so accomplished. I was due for this challenge, since I basically went on a 2 month hiatus over the summer.

For today I intended on posting a Halloween themed short story. But I’m still in the mist of writing it, and it’s not super Halloween related so I figured rather than stress myself out all night trying to rush to finish it, I will just finish it when I can and post when it’s ready. My stories always end up being longer, than I ever anticipate.

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However, as I mentioned in my Fall Bucket List- I will be participating in NaNoWriMo. What, you ask? NaNoWriMo stands for National Novel Writing Month.

It’s basically the month where writers challenge themselves to write about 2,000 words everyday for the entire month of November- clocking in at 50,000 words. Resulting in the idea that you will then have written the first draft of a novel in a month.

There is a whole community of writers who have been doing this for years. I am a newbie. I never even knew this was a thing. I’m not much of a reader, so I’m a bit reserved about writing a book.

But I figured why the hell not? I love all different types of forms of writing and I’ve dabbled in many. Why not try a book? So often I doubt myself without actually giving myself the chance to fail or to learn something knew about myself. When you really break it down, I just love to tell stories.

I wasn’t sure I could do BLOGMAS (Blog everyday for the entire month of December) last year, but I did it. Which gave me the courage to then conquer BLOGTOBER this year! And I was committed and here we are at Day 31! I learned about NaNoWriMo a few months ago, so I started to jot down a few ideas for a book. I have a pretty decent notebook full of charcters and plot points, dialogue lines, some research. I know I have along way to go, there is still some things I don’t know, but I just didn’t have time to really dive into planning, what with doing BLOGTOBER too.

In hindsight, doing that is a bit of a bitter sweet notion at this point. Today, I am so relieved to be done, but I know tomorrow, I’m starting a whole new venture of writing everyday. However, BLOGTOBER was really good practice for that. I kind of started my own little writing routine, and now I’m excited to get into my new story for this book idea.

Granted I have my reservations, I know there are already a bunch of days that it will be difficult to write but, I’m just going to really give it my best go. I always identify with being a writer, but I don’t write as often as I should. So by accepting these challenges, I am willing myself to write. To be the writer, I want to be. To let people know, that, that is what I am. And to accept that as a part of my life.

So often I let my writing slide, because I have other obligations. But I’m learning when to choose myself and my writing. I’m learning when I can let it slide and when I know I have to say no. I wrestle with the balance, but I will never be a writer if I don’t try.

I wasn’t sure if I wanted to officially sign up with the NaNoWriMo site, so I decided I was going to just to this thing on my own, just for the first time. Then if I find I want to try again next year, then I will register and join the online community.

So here’s the plan- Tomorrow is Day 1. I plan to get up early and write for two hours, and hopefully clock my first 2,000 words in. I don’t really plan/plot out too much, when I write. I guess I’m a pantser in that sense, or a mix of both a plotter and a pantser.

I just started following this Author/YouTuber when I was doing some NaNoWriMo research, she explains the whole Pantser/Plotter thing really well in her How To Outline Your Book video.

I will plan and construct a timeline, when I feel like things aren’t adding, up, time frames, and flashbacks. Things like that. That’s when I know I need to sus out some logistics and plan ahead. Other than I that I just go with the flow and see where the story takes me.

So that’s what I’m going to do. NaNoWriMo here we come!

I’m coming for you November!

DISCLAIMER: Michelle Leigh Writes will return to it’s regular Monday & Thursday posting schedule.

Happy Halloween Folks!

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And Cheers to a new writing adventure!
Wish me luck!

*NaNoWriMo images from the official site.

I do not take credit for those or for the video used.*

-<3-

#BLOGTOBER Day 30- Fall 2018 Bucket List Update

October 30, 2018October 30, 2018michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

Earlier in BLOGTOBER I posted my Fall 2018 Bucket List. [SEE HERE] I love fall, I love getting into the spirit of the season, and I love me a good to do/bucket list.

UPDATE!

So as Halloween rolls in. I wanted to check my progress on my trusty ole to do list.

There were 14 or so items on the list, and I was able to check off a good chunk of those this month!

Pumpkin Picking. CHECK

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Decorate for Fall/Halloween/Thanksgiving. CHECK

My house is festive AF!
Pumpkin Carving. CHECK

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Buy pies, jams, ciders, and other fall drinks/treats. CHECK

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Trick or Treat with my niece…

After tomorrow…CHECK

Watch Hocus Pocus & Halloweentown. CHECK

Some things I added along the way- like watching tons of fun Halloween movies including House of Wax, and listening to spooky soundtracks like MJs Thriller on a loop.

Others like the JT concert was actually postponed til January- which hey is out of my control. But I am READY!

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I wasn’t able to get to the movies as I wished. But life gets busy, what can you do? I did buy a cheap copy of Halloween so maybe I’ll watch it tomorrow night.

I didn’t make it to Apple Fest again this year, because my family got super busy. But truth be told I was better off, since I ended spending quite a pretty penny at the little shop at the farm we went to for pumpkin picking.

Fall fashion has been a bit of a bust, I’ve been so busy lately that I haven’t gotten a chance to swap out my summer clothes for my fall clothes. And because the weather has been so unpredictable I just never know. Let’s hope November is a bit more “fashionable. Lol.

My pumpkin party and wine & cheese party ideas didn’t happen this month but I’m hopeful for next. My best friend and I are trying to set up our pumpkin party. And to be honest, I’m dying to host a wine and cheese party myself!

As for NaNoWriMo- I am still planning to do this, however it doesn’t start til Thursday so stay tuned for an update on that. November is going to be insane. But I am interested to see how this works.

Fall isn’t over yet…November will be a time to conquer the rest…especially finding those Thanksgiving recipes and who knows maybe dye my hair purple? Haha. I know it costs a lot and it is a big commitment- I had my blue hair for ages. So when I do it, it has to be the right time. Stay tuned for that too!

Happy Fall All!

Did you get to check all the fall things off your bucket list?

See you tomorrow for our final #BLOGTOBER POST!

Working on a short story as we speak! The plan was to get half up today and the last half up tomorrow, but it’s taking longer to write than I expected. And it won’t be ready before midnight, so hang tight. Whether it’s done by tomorrow or night, I will still post it eventually.

*All images are my own.*

-<3-

#BLOGTOBER Day 29- Michael Jackson’s “Thriller”- A Film Muse

October 29, 2018October 29, 2018michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

As a huge Michael Jackson fan, I know that all of his videos are very detailed and tell a story. But the true leader of the pact has to be the iconic, nearly 14 minute long, short film- Thriller.

Michael Jackson’s Thriller- A Film Muse

Although I was not born until the 90’s, this video was always a big deal around Halloween, I grew up listening to Michael Jackson. And I try to make sure to watch and listen to Thriller every Halloween season. It just puts you in the spirit.

MJ’s message at the beginning-

I read that Michael had said this video offended people, which he never intended to, and that he would never want to do something like it again. But even so, the legacy of it lives on and on!

Color theme is pretty instant upon the reveal of the title- black and red- just like his iconic leather jacket.

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Michael Jackson’s Thriller is a music video for the Michael Jackson song “Thriller” released on December 2, 1983. It was directed by John Landis and written by Landis and Jackson. It was MTV’s first world premiere video. Voted as the most influential pop music video of all time, Thriller proved to have a profound effect on popular culture, and was named “a watershed moment for the [music] industry” for its unprecedented merging of filmmaking and music. Guinness World Records listed it in 2006 as the “most successful music video”, selling over nine million copies. In 2009, the video was inducted into the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress, the first music video to ever receive this honor, for being “culturally, historically or aesthetically” significant. The track was also listed at number one on “The Top 10 Halloween Songs” by Billboard.

Co-starring with Jackson was former Playboy centerfold Ola Ray. The video was choreographed by Michael Peters (who had worked with the singer on his prior hit “Beat It”), and Jackson. Jackson contacted Landis after seeing his film An American Werewolf in London; make-up artist Rick Baker and composer Elmer Bernstein (who composed incidental music for the video) were also brought from the film to work on the video. The video (like the song) contains a spoken word performance by horror film veteran Vincent Price. “Thriller” was the third and final video for the Thriller album. The red jacket that Jackson wore was designed by Landis’ wife Deborah Landis to make him appear more “virile”. – All info Via Wikipedia.

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Summary [If you live under a rock and have never seen this masterpiece…Watch Before Reading the spoilers below!]

In the 1950s, Michael Jackson and a young woman (Ola Ray) run out of gas while driving in a wooded area. They walk into the forest and Michael asks her to be his girlfriend. She accepts. Jackson warns her that he is “not like other guys”, transforms into a werewolf, and attacks her. In a modern-day movie theater, Michael and his girlfriend are watching the previous scene as part of horror film, Thriller. She leaves early, disturbed by the violence. As they walk in the street, Michael teases her by performing the verses of “Thriller”. In a graveyard, undead rise from their graves as Vincent Price narrates. The couple are surrounded and Michael becomes a zombie. He and the zombies dance to “Thriller”. Michael and the zombies chase his girlfriend into an abandoned house. She screams and wakes up, realizing it was a nightmare. Michael embraces her, but turns to the camera and grins, revealing his werewolf eyes. – Via Wikipedia

This video has everything. It has great music (that chorus! how can you NOT sing along), a killer dance break, a cool concept with a movie within a movie, dancing zombies, a werewolf transformation, young love, and that Vincent Price epic cackle at the end that will always give me chills…I mean what more can you ask for?

I love how they got the 50’s charcters to dress the part- the poodle skirt/letterman jacket/ and him asking her to go steady by giving her his ring. Then we see the 80’s inspired fashion in the current timeline. I love the red and blue hues in Jackson and Ray’s wardrobe. Blue hues are often used in horror. They match the spooky night sky and rolling fog, as they walk through the dewy streets while he serenades her. That whole sequence is probably my favorite because it’s cute and playful like something you’d see in a romantic comedy, and then ~~shit~~ gets real in a minute. Excuse the language. 😉 Jackson’s character is funny and a jokester, but when he turns, he turns! And instantly you feel like your worst nightmares are coming true…like your starring in a horror movie yourself.

USA : Michael Jackson dans “Thriller”- USA-1984/0906262022 (Newscom TagID: null) [Photo via Newscom]

It has all the markings of a horror film, the carefully placed “scary movie” suspense music/sound effects, creatures closing in creating that claustrophobic feeling (those closeup shots are so good- they make you feel like you are right there in the film). And let’s not forget the overly dramatic actress, screaming. Ah- a true ode to horror. It is mentioned in the wiki research that they had specific horror films they used as inspiration through the creation of the short film- naming films like Phantom of the Opera, Night of the Living Night, and I Was A Teenage Werewolf.

Image processed by CodeCarvings Piczard ### FREE Community Edition ### on 2017-10-31 16:05:40Z | http://piczard.com | http://codecarvings.com

That toe touch!

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I love how you have to suspend reality and just trust the storyline. There is a bit of a confusion, because we are basically watching a movie within a movie. The way that this is set up is brilliant. You get a mini intro, a fake out, then cue the song’s intro as we pan onto the theatre sign, as the story continues. That shot of the movie theatre was done with a crane, I saw in the behind the scenes. Epic!

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#INCEPTION

So in the beginning we see a young couple walking through the woods and then the guy turns into a werewolf, but it ends up being a movie Michael and his girl are watching. Are we to believe that the whole rest of the short film is the real deal? When Michael turns into a zombie and busts a move, only to later chase his girlfriend into an old house and be revealed as his regular self again, telling her, “What’s the problem? Come on, I’ll take you home,” like everything is fine. Did you see that lighting change/setting change though? #MovieMagic Making us think that the movie scared the wits out of her and is making her think all of these creepy creatures are real and chasing her. But then we get that turn back of Michael revealing his werewolf eyes accompanied by Vincent Price’s Laugh and you see that suspending reality is a beautiful thing and you just watched a masterpiece.

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I love that ending, even if it confuses me. Haha. I guess it wasn’t all in her head.

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Don’t get me wrong, there are some cheesy moments here and there. But like I teach my kids in my film class, these graphics were groundbreaking for that time in film and video. We grow and we get better. And effects improve through the years, but you have to start somewhere. And this was an EPIC start! Paved the way.

This video is iconic and still to this day inspires other artists to push the boundaries of music television and storytelling.

Behind the Scenes of Michael’s Werewolf & Zombie transformations, etc.

Cue the shot of the moon…so good!

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For more BTS information watch the hour long Documentary-

The Making of Michael Jackson’s Thriller

LISTEN TO THE AUDIO

THRILLER LYRICS

READ MORE INFO ABOUT THE THRILLER VIDEO

FYI Jackson did venture into horror again, in his 1996 musical short film- GHOSTS (running 39 minutes). This too was granted a documentary- The Making Of. Although I can’t find concrete info as to how it was released in the US, I remember watching this on tv with my family when I was a kid. I feel like it was a big Halloween special. It is so creepy, but so damn good. I can’t find the full version on YouTube but I linked a shorter version. This is a whole other Film Muse in the making, maybe next Halloween. 😀

I’ll never understand how he could make a dance break scary?

Hats off, Michael. May you rest in peace.

*I do not take credit for any images/gifs/music/lyrics/videos/BTS footage used.*

-<3-

#BLOGTOBER Day 28- Purple/Green/Black Rocker Chic Witch Costume Idea

October 28, 2018michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

This year is my niece’s first time Trick -or- Treating so I am going to be going with her. So naturally, me always down for a reason to dress up- after many laps around Spirit Halloween I walked out with a witch hat and a spider ring.

I figured I just needed a few accent pieces, because I knew I had enough black clothing at home, and I knew I could make something creative with fun makeup and nail art.

So the creative wheels started and I decided on a Purple/Green/Black color theme. When I think of witches I think of those three colors. Their tights are usually purple and green stripped, their faces green. So I figured why not make it a funky witch theme.

Let’s start with the basics…

The Black Base- I wanted this to be more of a Rocker Chic Witch Look

So we have to have the leather jacket, the black pants, and the combat boots. These two clothing pieces have been so well worn! I feel like I go for them ALL THE TIME. Every girl has those one pair of black pants that she feels like she can conquer the world in. #BootyLookGoodPants 😉

I will probably just wear a black long sleeve or black t-shirt. Depending on the weather. If I had more time I would have searched for a purple & green stripped tee. But all black with color accents is always super cool, if you ask me. So that’s the way I’m choosing to rock this glam rocker witch look.

The trusty old combat boots, I’ve had for years.

The Witch Hat & Spider Ring [Sprit Halloween]

Hat- $14.99

Ring- $7.99

^ I tried to link these items for you guys, in case you wanted to pick them up for your own witch look for next year, but I couldn’t find them on the site. But they had a bunch others, click and browse the site!

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They had a huge witch section- makeup, jewelry, brooms, costumes. I’m not a fan of costume Halloween makeup. I have sensitive skin, so I know it’ll probably mess with my face. Besides, everything was so expensive. As it is I walked out spending about $25 just for a hat and a ring!

But I really do like this hat, its got these really cool black feathers that glisten a green/purple hue, and it has a veil that hangs over the face with a bunch of spiders all over it. The spider ring was an impulse buy near the register. I was looking for an extravagant spider ring but I didn’t see any in the witch section, then I found this one on the way out and loved it.

So with these two pieces in mind, I set out to researching the fun stuff Makeup & Nail Ideas. I wanted a really fun glam witch look. No full green face for me! 😉

Makeup Inspirations- [via YouTube Tutorials]

Links Below:

GREEN & PURPLE LOOK FULL FACE

PURPLE LOOK

^I really like the ombre lip look

LIME GREEN & PURPLE LOOK

GREEN SPIDER WEB EYE LOOK

Nail Art Inspirations– [via Google & YouTube]

LINK

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Makeup & Nail polish I bought to complete this look-

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NICKAK NEW YORK lipsticks in Violet & Lime BRUCCI Nail polish in Sylvia’s Pretty In Purple & Stephanie Go Lime

Accessories I had, that I plan to use to spruce up this witch look-

I have some lace gloves, some various bracelet and choker necklace options. Some Silver hoops, some black sunglasses. I also have a silver bracelet/ring piece with a moon on it which I thought was kinda witchy so we’ll see if I want to rock that. And not sure yet if I want to throw on this spider web scarf too.

This ring has the colors in it, but I may not want to wear any other rings, because that spider ring can be a stand alone piece! LOL. We shall see how it all gets pulled together. I usually end up making something work! 😀

Hair-

I was also going to curl my hair and add in some purple and green hair extensions, but I couldn’t find the right color shades, and I didn’t really want to buy any sprays. So I decided that I’m going to just use the eyeshadow I have and just dust some on like hair chalk. Or if that doesn’t work, I can just use real sidewalk chalk. Its basically the same crap. HAHA. I’ll throw some hairspray to hold the color and boom!

COSTUME NOTES:

So what I usually end up doing is gathering inspiration and then I put my own spin on things and make up my own look.

I’m sure if you didn’t want to rock a full witch hat you can also find a cute little hat clip, hat headband, or create a paper hat on your own. YouTube is full of tons of tutorials.

I chose pants, because I wanted to be comfortable, but you could totally do a black skirt or dress and find the striped tights, or a pair of fishnets. It’s totally customizable. Do your thang!

Honestly you can be really creative with a witch costume, you can even do all black, or red and black, or orange and black. Basically as long as you have a witch “hat” on, everyone will know what you are!

Follow michelleleighwrites_blog on instagram for a full look costume reveal on Halloween!

Happy Trick-or-Treating!

*All images are my own except the screenshots from the makeup and nail inspirations.*

*I do not take credit for any videos used.*

-<3-

#BLOGTOBER Day 27- Creating this year’s Pumpkin Character

October 27, 2018October 27, 2018michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

So I know that almost everyone in the world has carved or decorated a pumpkin. But just in case you haven’t, I got you covered. 😉

Every year, I carve/design a pumpkin character. See my other character creations in BLOGTOBER Day 9 !

As always I have my Fall Bucket List, and I have been slowly making my way through it. And so I’ve been wanting to find time to carve my pumpkin and last night I made sure to do just that.

BEFORE & AFTER

The Making Of: Meeting Aquafina

STEP ONE: Set your Pumpkin out on a steady working area. You may want to lay out a garbage bag, because things are going to get messy! And Gather all your decorative pieces…(hence the mess in the background all over my table!)

STEP TWO: Cut off the top of the pumpkin; I drew a circle around the stem and carved it out with a regular kitchen knife. I didn’t have any fancy pumpkin carving knives, but a regular knife worked just fine.

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STEP THREE: The fun part! Get Messy and remove all the guts and the seeds!

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STEP FOUR: Go in with a spoon to scrap and remove any excess pumpkin guts.

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RESESARCH DESIGN INSPIRATION: I wanted to do a mermaid character, so I just needed an image to use as a reference when I drew it.

STEP FIVE: Free hand the design onto the pumpkin, with a pen.

I messed up the nose a bit… 😦

STEP SIX: Carve out the facial features you want to. I chose to carve out some and outline others. Just to show a little light in when I put the candle in. Be sure to clear out any extra pumpkin that may fall through inside again.

STEP SEVEN: MERMAID MAKEUP. Here are some supplies I used to create my mermaid’s makeup. I basically used the blue pen to draw on the face. Then I mixed the blue crayon and the green glitter to create the glittery eye shadow, eye liner, and lipstick, using the blue paint brush to apply it. I used the black crayon for the eyelashes.

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STEP EIGHT: CREATE THE LOOK. Then for the design portion I added two battery operated, no flame tea lights into my pumpkin. And added my mermaid touches (believe it or not, I had all of these things)- a Hawaiian lei, blue hair extensions (I wrapped them around the stem to create a bun style and used bobby bins to pin them in place), my DIY starfish hair pin, and a plastic fork because you know that’s how mermaids comb their hair. #THELITTLEMERMAID

STEP NINE: Give her a name! MEET Aquafina! She’s a sassy mermaid.

TIP: Sometimes after cutting the stem, it ends up becoming too small and then falling into the pumpkin. My mom suggested adding a tooth pick on either side of the cover to keep it from falling in. You can’t tell here, because I strategically placed the Lei, but it worked like a charm. And it makes it easy to lift my pumpkin cover to turn the candles on and off.

STEP TEN: Shut the lights off, pop in a Halloween movie, grab a snack and a glass of wine (or if your underage some cider, Lol) and ENJOY!

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This was a bit time consuming, but I love all this fall themed stuff.

When all was said and done, I really liked the way she came out.

She looks so cute and sassy!

*All images are my own, except for the black & white mermaid face design.*

-<3-