What is E-Writing?

When I say E-Writing, what do you think of? Well- I think of writing for the internet. I think E-Writing generally means writing for a specific internet website or news/gossip column/blog. The way E-Writing reads is a lot of the time less-structured than say, a newspaper article, boasting a casual tone that relates to the site the user is on.

In terms of writing effectively for the internet, I think, just like anything else, there are must-do's. Probably the number one rule to remember is this: Online content should be the opposite to print content - meaning it should be interactive, dynamic and current.

I also think presentation has a lot to do with online content, and writer's should analyze the environment that is the site, and go from there. Readers want to see something coulorful - but not to the point of being an eye-sore.

Even though E-Writing shouldn't mirror a newspaper, it should still read like one. The inverted pyramid structure is one that should be incorporated, purely because it has been proven to work successfully.

People should keep in mind how their E-Writing reads- is it compelling or energetic? I think this is key when reading a news site/column or blog. You tend to turn off after you don't like a particular word or phrase, or if the words don't 'read well'. Speaking of this - font is a biggy. Keep in mind that fonts such as Comic Sans tends to remind people of a 5-year old, Arial is just plain mainstream, and Univers Extended is ugly.

I think the last thing to think about, is that the E-Writer should undoubtedly know there audience - or in other words E community. If an internet post is proving to be popular or successful, it probably means that it was well-written, specifically to that target audience.

So to all those wannabe E-Writers out there - if you keep in mind these simple tips then you should be fine.
Over and out!

Interesting.

Ever wonder why you tend to do some things? I found this 'interesting' website - filled with 'interesting' facts: Like-

Did you know that if you are right handed, you will tend to chew your food on the right side of your mouth.

Chewing gum while peeling onions will stop you from crying.

Bats always turn left when exiting a cave.

Dalmations are born without spots.

Every time you sneeze some of your brain cells die.

Check out the site - http://www.hemmy.net/2006/04/30/50-interesting-facts/

'Bad Boy' has been wiped

Hi Guys, I just thought I'd let you know, that the infamous 'bad boy' character that was in my social circle for approximately 2 and a half weeks - is now gone.
I am extremely happy as I am the one who ended it. I now have all my self-respect and feel a whole lot more 'wholesome'. I'm not talking like high quality multi-grain bread wholesome just yet - but close.

It's amazing what letting go of a bad thing can do to you. I'm actually having a good Monday -

Today's weird/funny: Hats of Meat

You want to check out a wacky site? Well here we have 'Hats of Meat' which is like....very odd

http://www.hatsofmeat.com/

On another disturbing note, why not check out DeathClock - this site apparently tells you the exact time and date of your death...need I say more?

http://www.deathclock.com

Definately an update needed here.

Ok, so we're talking about what we were talking about the other day - I have been rather slack in my posts lately but trust me, I have a hefty update concerning me, a 'bad boy' and some 'rules of engagement'.

I will say this once, and once only - and yes - the guy in question is very aware of where he stands (well at least I thought he did).

Sitting at home yesterday afternoon, and I hear a car pulll up. It's him. He's just 'dropping in'. I mean what!!! - unannounced??? And, he leaves it till he's been in the flat for twenty minutes before he even says hi.

What I want to know is this: Why is this guy turning up to 'visit me' after work, when it's just a casual thing. Anyway, because he stayed for about 2 hours, here I was thinking that he had come for something else....but oh NO people - here I was wrong again. He leaves at 10.30 - but not before I told him what I thought of him. It went a little something like this:

(CUE HEATED ARGUMENT)

ME: "So- let me get this straight. You came round to 'see me' but not ACTUALLY 'see me'??!!! And why didn't you txt before you came

BAD BOY: "I can turn up when I want"

ME: "Aaah- no, you can't." This is getting way to heavy. Just go"

BAD BOY: "BLAH BLAH BLAH IM SORRY......" @$*&!!!

Question- why does he think he can just go ahead and ignore the rules of play when it comes to a 'casual relationship'. You always stick to the rules people -ALWAYS. I've come to the conclusion that: It's just not worth it. Hello spinster with 40 cats and a long ash hangin off the cigarette life. Hello.

When good girls go bad.

For most of you out there you will think I'm referring to the newest hit on the radio by that Gossip Girl chic - or whatever. And you are right, in a way.Because I am talking about when music imitates life : Have you ever had that? Of course, everyone has!

This is my experience. Just around the time that this hit song began to 'flourish' on the radio, I became involved with a 'bad boy'. Now when I say bad I don't mean just plain boring bad - I'm talking about the whole deal - this is one edgy guy. Anyway, everytime I hear this song it's like they are trying to tell me to GET OUT of the situation. And I know I should. I am a good girl - but everyone's gone 'bad' at some point. Let me have this one thing.

I did think about however, the fact that when I do want to end this casual/flingy/in-no-way steady thing, that it won't be that easy. It's true what they say about the 'bad boys' - they are a whole different kettle of fish. And I am so above board it's not funny - I mean, I don't think I've ever done somethinig illegal or just 'bad' in general. God knows this is a good thing.

So here I am venting my uncomfortableness at being involved with this (relatively older) 'bad boy'. This isn't your typical skank blog people - this is serious. If I sit back and think about it, where the hell did this attraction come from? I am now partially regretting it.

I will keep you updated...

Sunday Funday

Waking up on Sunday morning and having a relaxing read of the paper (or in my case a trashy gossip mag!) paired with a bagel and a hot cup of quality coffee, is just what I look forward to....

However, it's very rarely what happens. You see, I either get 2 sorts of Sunday mornings:

The first being the hungover, can't even get out of bed because I'm too scared to look in the mirror sorts - of course these come with greasy food in the afternoon and a throw up- courtesy of that fowl concoction of a drink you decided to 'finish the night off' with.

The second sort of Sunday is the perfect morning - because you decided not to go out and throw yourself infront of the alcohol, and instead you spend your day thoroughly enjoying every meal, every tv omnibus, every activity, and may even fit in some tech work.

I am more than happy to say that I am having the second Sunday on my list - and am feeling pretty productive. Hell, I might even go for a run!
Life is good sometimes.

We are counting down the 5 wackiest jobs you never thought would exist:

1. Hair Boiler

A hair boiler is a person who boils various kinds of animal hair, until it curls. Try to imagine the scent of burning hair-all day long. Welcome to the world of the hair boiler.

2. Citris Fruit Dyer

Ok, now I bet you have been in the supermarket, looking at the lemons or limes and thought - Damn that citris looks fine, what a nice coat of yellowy yellow/ greeny green it has. This is because there are citris dyers who dye the fruit this colour, to help disguise the ripeness of it.

3. Fortune Cookie Writer

Ever wondered how you can put those writing skills to use? Well - someone has to write the fortunes.Remember - everyone seems to appreciate those little witty pieces of information available in the cookies.

4. Wrinkle Chasers

Now this is not what it sounds - this job includes making sure there are no wrinkles on your favourite pair of shoes, before they leave the factory. Shoes get leathery crows feet too you know.

5. Dog Food Tester

YES! Some lucky human being actually does this for a living. If you think about it, how can the dogs test their own food? All quality cuisine has to be tested. I can just imagine that persons breath...

The rise of Convergence Media - and why we need it!

2009 means that we no longer have to rely on only newspapers for our daily dose of affairs and gossip around the globe. Nowadays, there are so many options available to people who are seeking all sorts of information.

I don't know about you, but whenever I want to find out something e.g. news or gossip, I hit up my favorite websites to see what they have on offer. Why not just go and read the newspaper? Because the newspaper is so bland compared to the riveting websites offering webcasts, podcasts and live streaming.

Another thing that I love about these sites, is that there are always a few quirks added in for entertainment - like the opinion polls and irrelevant but interesting gossip e.g. 'Pammy's high sex drive past' or 'Jane Yee's life after 30'.

This isn't all either people, I mean if your feeling abit peckish, you can whip up something from the recipe that's been posted too - who's for vegetable risotto with bacon?

Websites like this revolve around the absolute latest news and current affairs, and can be updated in a second. Perhaps this is, undoubtedly why people flock to them like a pack of hungry seagulls each day (or 3 times a day even). Just to get their fix.

I have added a couple of links to convergence media that I generally rely on, and websites that I recommend you check daily....

http://www.stuff.co.nz/

http://www.smh.com.au/

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/

When the heavens open up

If you guessed I'm talking about rain - your wrong. I'm talking about when you least expect it, you get the surprise of your life and if you could jump for joy on the spot you would.

Yesterday as I was stalking people on the internet and checking to see what broadcasting jobs had opened up (which are generally VERY difficult to find), the perfect job popped up right infront of my eyes.

That's right people - my dream job of a television reporter/journalist. You can imagine my excitement at this, however I then went into a panick as I started filling out the application form. All thoughts of "As if they'll consider me" and "I'm only 23" came to mind, but then I figured - Britney Spears didn't become famous because she sat on her ass......so I figured - what the hell do I have to lose. Nothing. All was good, so I attached the CV and sent that puppy away.

So now we play the waiting game......and I'm aware that people very rarely get their dream job right off the bat, at first try like that. But it just felt so damn good to send that application away, knowing I had the appropriate skill set.

Until next time!!

P.S Please excuse my Britney Spears reference (although I do love Brit, she isn't the best success story to refer to)

Lara Flynn Boyled her face

Ladies and Gentleman.....

Unless you want to look like you have the mumps permanently - don't do what Lara Flynn Boyle did.

She went from a relatively attractive (bulemic/anorexic) D grade actress, to a plastic surgery disaster incorporated (still a D grade actress).

Once again, take a look at the 'Before' picture - obviously this is the one that doesn't look weird.

Feeling a tad angry (what a surprise!)

Today would have to be the first day I have ever dreaded (as in like REALLY dreaded) coming to tech.

This is purely because I had a confrontation with a fellow extended classmate on the weekend - well actually they decided it would be fitting to txt me something way out of line and see how I would react I think. Well I thank the lord this person is not in my class right now, however I'm sure whenever we run into each other it will be a very awkward/angry/aggressive meeting. I am ready for this. I am ready to stand up for myself, when you know in your heart that you did absolutely nothing wrong then that means something. Not to her however, I think this person just enjoys creating drama wherever she goes....and I do pity people like that.

I think it would be safe to say that I am a 10 on the scale of 1-10 of bitterness and aggression.

I will not be threatened- especially for something I didn't do, and I sure as hell won't back down: God knows she's trampled over some people in the past - well I am not going to be the next.

I'm sure you have all been in a relatively similar situation at some point in your lives....

It's a 6/10 day today - getting better

Well, my last blog was full of hatred for those who choose not to reply to important emails.....and on that note.....I opened up my email inbox today to find that I had received one of those replies I had been waiting for.....and waiting for!!

So, I gather that I don't need to stress AS much as I was, and I'm sure things will work out. Oh don't I sound like the positive one!! hahah WHAT A CHANGE!!

I just feel that, if the people in question had of gotten back to me a.s.a.p there wouldn't have been the need for the drinking....the sobbing....the aggression directed toward innocent bystanders (well maybe not that).

So as I said, today is a 6/10 day - that's good. Above average!!!

STRESSED OUT !!!!!

I am so sick and tired of people who don't get back to you via email. I mean, fine - people are busy. But come on - the expression "I was busy ALL day" is just that - a fricken expression !!!!!

So I have spent the whole day stressing over my patential career. Hahhahahahaha sorry - I mean as if I'm going to get a chance at a career if these busy bee types refuse to fit a 20 second email into their day.

(Nearly sobbing).

P.S: The woman in the picture is me. And definately how I feel right now.

My view on a current news story - The Pony Club's New Dress Regs (for guys)

http://www.facebook.com/ext/share.php?sid=235831570293&h=_Bm8d&u=WQVNd&ref=mf

So everyone in N.Z who watches Target and well, basically television would have heard of Brooke Howard Smith. Brooke is the big-mouthed, smart alec character who looks half something, half indian.....

Anyway, along with Brooke's many tv appearances, he also manages to run a trendy Auckland city bar - "The Pony Club".

Now, being an Aucklander myself, I am always back home for visits, and as it happens I went to The Pony Club just a few weeks back.

Here is the thing: Brooke has re-established the dress regulations for guys. However, he hasn't made it near impossible for then to get in - he's made it literally impossible. Don't get me wrong - I am a fan of people dressing nicely and having to make a little effort. BUT : This is what they now CANNOT even think about wearing:

No polo shirts.

No sneakers.

No T-Shirts.

No jewellry e.g any type of chain around neck.

No solo guys or guys in groups - No girls, no entry.

Can I ask Brooke: What the hell do guys wear now???

On a closing note: I personally think girls can dress just as, if not more tacky than their male counterparts - however girls attire is not even mentioned.

Oh and Brooke - who made you the "Classy one". Underneath it all your still an annoying twat who thinks he's god's gift. Good luck with the bar takings.

We're having cold stew in a tuppaware wednesday

Andrei has taken aboard the fact that some of his food choices are just a tad outside of the square - and is now attempting to be 'normal' when it comes to packing his lunch.

Today he ripped out a tuppaware (large and round), that was filled with last night's leftover stew, along with two slices of bread - for dipping.

Now, as I am quite into Andrei's unusual food choices, I was sorely disappointed with this. Andrei you are slipping!!! Although, I myself would never bring stew....I just couldn't.

But well-done, you still managed to wow us a wee bit.
Andrei has just admitted he disliked this class....so.... "We can safely say he just comes here to eat his lunch".

Meet Michaela Romanini. Believe it or not, this Italian socialite is only 40 years old however has had that much collagen pumped into her lips....

She became famous after many surgeries. Go figure.

Plastic Surgery botch up of the day:

Here is today's plastic surgery disaster....

This woman is known as 'Catwoman'. She has spent $4 million on plastic surgery. Would you want your money back? I would.

Jocelyn is a wealthy socialite who was cheated on by her husband - bringing on her 'need' to go under the knife. Her husband supposedly likes cats - hence her new look.

Look at the 'Before' picture - so much better!!!!

The joy of the first date 'Bungle'

Hi Guys.

Well, was just in the usual coffee shop picking up my regular, and sitting down to wait for it I witnessed one of those awkward first dates.
Now, how did I spot this - well it wasn't exactly hard. As the girl sat down infront of her wannabe Prince Charming, her eyes quickly shot a look at the floor like 'why did I agree to do this'.

The guy lead with ' So........(great big long PAUSE)..........."What brings you down here", and the girl replied (in a rather stumbled up sentence....."Well, I don't really know......just......came to study...... Now, at this point both guy and girl have realised that their first date has been bungled - which ideally means that it is going nowhere.

Looking at these two daters, I was quite surprised to see that both of them were the most casual, of casual dressed can be. No effort. And I mean no effort at all - I'm pretty sure also that the girl had a white t-shirt that was semi see through - and yes the guys eyes were level with her pink bra.

I mean, I could prattle on all day. But I know for sure one thing - and that is they will not still be sitting there. That first date attempt would have lasted all but 7 mins. Why not 10?? Because I witnessed 5 mins, and I'm tellin ya there is no way they could have continued on for another 5.

I honestly think this is why the 'first date' has been somewhat thrown out the window. And being someone who has never subjected themselves to that type of torture - I can tell you one thing. There is no way I will ever say yes to a 'date'. Especially after witnessing that. Infact, I could actually sum it up as a really really bad job interview.

People who let the team down

Maybe it's because I only got five of my normally eight hours sleep, or the fact that I havn't had enough coffee....but sometimes I feel like people are 'letting the team down', so to speak.

What I mean by this, for example, are people who choose to break away from the ever so safe normality, and express themselves in a way that is most definately not needed.

I have a couple of circumstances that I wish to share from the past week:

1) The middle-aged lady at United Video who was in both pyjama top and bottoms -

2) The young lanky guy who was wearing short shorts while running in the pouring down rain carrying a beer crate

3) A little car that was definately not 'road worthy' - with a door that was literally burnt off. Hooning around like any other.

Now, I know that people refuse to believe that 'Keeping up appearances' is just for those, well, snobby people. But, I truly think that some of those people actually need to be schooled in what is not cool (nor will it ever be cool).

There are of course, with everything, exceptions to the rule...like wearing ugg boots to the supermarket - or even out and about on a cold winters day.

We need to take a long hard look at ourselves people - because undoubtedly you will register with these types of people, and you will have seen them. Walking down the street...in the shops..

Well next time you do see one of these people- take a long hard look. And say to yourself-

That will never be me.

Invercargill - where dreams aren't possible

Ok, so I'm back to being Miss Negativity for now - with good reason. Last night I tuned in to get my daily dose of Shorty St, only to note THREE Invercargill slaggings, within the first twenty minutes.

Now, since I'm not from Invercargill, I can more than sympathise with why this was happening, I mean - everybody knows that Invercargill gets the crappy weather, the crappy bars, the crappy shops....just crap everything basically. Sitting there watching a character on a ficticious show slag off the city you are in at that particular point in time - well it's embarassing in it's own right.

To top this bitchy blog off - Invercargill's weather today is most probably the crappest in the country. It's not just rain, it's RAIN. And thinking it will stop anytime soon is just being sadly optimistic (omgosh I'm a wannabe journalist and I don't even know if I got that spelling correct).

Anyway people, that's me for now. So to sum up: I just want to get back to normality.

Which does not involve a shop called 'Dizzy's that serves actual FILTER coffee - It's 2009. Not 1989.

I will end this with some of my favourite Invercargill quotes:

"Invercargill - A city filled with beautiful surprises"

"The lifestyle opportunities available to people who live in Southland are exceptional"

"The arsehole of the world"

Update on the new flatmate...

Finding a flatmate is a horrendously stressful agonising time, and one that needs to be thought about a great deal.

Well we found one. And now I'm starting to wish I hadn't. Why? You wonder.....

1) Alcoholic beverages are now being stored in the top of our toilet
2) An increasing number of no-hopers are knocking at our door, asking for the flatty in question
3) You know it's never good when she says she 'works nights'

But I'm sure it can't get any worse...right???

"My apologies - I didn't screen them"

Ok - So we are talking about people who choose not to 'screen' photos before they put them on Facebook. These people generally turn out to be very unpopular with the masses. Everyone needs to remember this: When you have been in a social, drinking situation having a fun time, and have taken a few photos - or have posed for photos: Remember to ask the photographer to 'screen' the photos before they upload them.

If the person stares blankly at you and says "what is screen" ??, just reply that screening is the process you go through after you have taken some photos to prevent any type of social embarassment online.

I will warn you - people who sometimes say they 'screen' may lie, to benefit themselves or their personal page e.g. of course they want to upload rank photos of others, I mean, who wouldn't want others to think that they were the only one who managed to look good that night.

These are words of wisdom. Just remember: 'Screening' is the new black.

Monday Madness - Today it's....spaghetti.

It's always interesting waiting to see what my fellow classmate Andrei will pull out of his bag for his late lunch. You see, he always does this - and without a doubt the food item he has chosen for the day is always :

A) Less than appealing
B) Not something you would think of to bring to class - ever

AND...the most important factor of all

C) Incredibly inappropriate

So... on to today. Today we had a can of Homebrand spaghetti, cold that is. I know what you may be thinking - did he have a can opener to go with that?? The answer to this is yes. Andrei thinks of everything when it comes to his inappropriate food choices. Andrei sat there and ate his cold canned spaghetti. To be perfectly honest I was waiting for him to rip out the homemade protein shake, made up of eggs and milk. When I say milk I mean a litre of milk. But sadly...not today, nor was there any huge chunk of watermelon.
There is one thing for sure though, I never lose faith. Because there is always tomorrow- and I shudder to think what that will involve.