Fill The Well.

“But that's just the trouble with me. I give myself very good advice. But I very seldom follow it. That explains the trouble that I'm always in. Be patient, is very good advice, but the waiting makes me curious.” - Alice

A reader of Sundae Matinee, informed me that I have “guts” in terms of sharing the findings and experiences - good and bad - of The Grand Fantastical Escape, with you, my readers. This comment has hung out in my brain all week. As difficult as it may be to be open about some of things rattling around in my brain, I believe it is important. Maybe something I type here will make someone feel less alone or maybe they’ll be inspired to enact their own escape. I am nothing special, just a creature trying to create the life I deserve.

Now for the bad news… Upon embarking on this escapade I began to personally document my adventure in a handwritten journal, dating and numbering each day that has passed since this all began. The only rule in terms of these daily dispatches is that I write something. No word count. No focus. It is a safe space in which I am able to spill the beans from my brain. Maybe knock a few cobwebs loose, keep myself motivated or dissect a brainstorm. I have made this activity part of my new routine when I bike to the nearby park prior to lunch.

Well. As I write this, I am on Day 52 of the escape and am having what I refer to as a hiccup day. Things just don’t seem right… I feel like Alice tumbling down a dark, dank rabbit hole. During my descent I pass all of my hopes, dreams and aspirations. I attempt to grab hold of them, but they slip through my fingers waving goodbye as I travel further into the shadows. As I travel to bummerland, my head fills with nonsensical thoughts and maniacal witch cackles. Pure evil.

Now for the good news… I knew this day would come. No, I am not a fortune teller, despite my affinity to gaze upon a crystal ball form time to time. I just am aware that life has its up and downs. Not everything can be sunshine, rainbows and Pomeranians. When things get tough, one has to fill the well. As I write this I feel depleted. Which means it is time to take a day, recharge and refresh. I plan to do just this with my bestest pal, Katie. We have a jaunt planned that is sure to get me back afloat and will leave me with hair the color of the Creature From The Black Lagoon. Katie isn’t just my lifelong friend and fellow filmmaker (we co-wrote/co-directed this short flick, Pizzaman, watch here), she is a hair artist too. I can’t wait to gallivant with her, eat noodles, watch a flick and search for some spookies (can you believe Halloween merch is out already… eeek!).

It is important to recognize when you need a break. As the boss, I can determine when it is necessary to take a day off or move a deadline… I am still getting used to that. No one is telling me what to do or how to do it. For once in my life I am in charge of my own destiny.

The clock is ticking… Remember when I told you about the short story contest that centers around a doll in an attic? Well, besides a few ideas scribbled down in one of my diary entries, I have not had a chance to focus on this quite yet due to various MovieJawn writings and responsibilities. However, this coming week I am setting aside time to focus on this exciting opportunity as it is due by July 31.

In reading the prompt closer, I have an idea regarding a doll and a past Hollywood life. After being locked away in a dusty attic for decades, they may now have an opportunity to seize the spotlight. Of corpse… they will do anything, including murderrr to see their dreams become a reality. What do you think?

This week I got a double scoop of sweet stuff that I am proud of…

• I loved this documentary about two of my favorite filmmakers, Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger. This flick is perfect for cinephiles or those that want to dive in to their filmography for the first time. Made in England: The Films of Powell and Pressburger opened in theaters July 12. Add it to your watch list and check out my review for MovieJawn, here.

• The latest episode of my podcast, Cinematic Crypt aired on July 13. I think it turned out quite swell. In listening during my routine quality check, I literally got thrills and chills up and down my spine. Give it a listen wherever you catch other fine pods or find it for download here on MovieJawn.

This week I recommend checking out… Twin Peaks

Prior to the hiccup day I experienced as mentioned above, I decided to begin a Twin Peaks rewatch last Sunday. If you have not seen this program… it is absolutely exquisite. A while back, I stepped up to the plate and procured this amazing box set which is how I am completing this return to one of my favorite mountain towns.

Twin Peaks is the definition of atmospheric, which I believe is why it was calling me to pay it a visit. My mind was seeking not only inspiration but a way to unwind and lose myself for a bit. This is a show that immerses the viewer and I look forward to this as well as vanishing… at least once a week that is. My relaxing ritual will entail one episode per week with a fancy coffee drink and possibly a sweet treat (ie a doughnut or slice of pie). I already envision drastic changes to my wardrobe (I need saddle shoes) and the affinity to start using my tape recorder on a daily basis to document items of importance much like Agent Cooper. Twin Peaks has that way of completely taking over my life and I am OK with this.

If you want to join in, you can find the show streaming here.

Happy you are here. xx. goodbye.

Tell a friend.