Tuesday, October 25, 2005

Grandma Caught the Writing Bug

So, how exciting is this? It turns out, my 82 year old grandmother has written her autobiography, and she wants me to type it out for her. I am thrilled about this, and am really looking forward to a chance to get to know more about her. This is such an awesome idea, I honestly think everyone should do something similar. It’s a great way for your family and friends to learn about you, and to have a chance to see life through your eyes.

I just got the manuscript, and haven’t had a chance to read it yet. However, I’ve already had a chuckle: on the cover of the notebook is written “Hilroy Notebook – 300 pages”. My grandmother has scribbled out the “300 pages” and wrote in “Only 150 pages – they lied” on the cover. I think she was thinking separate individual sheets, while pages usually refer to both sides of the sheet. Still, its indicative of how cantankerous she can be, but in a very good and fun way.

When it comes down to brass tacks, I love my grandmother a lot. I don’t really communicate that properly to her, which I regret. As shitty as my paternal grandparents were, she more than makes up for that. As I go through her autobiography, I will – with her permission – put some excerpts up here in my blog as well as some of my memories and commentaries.

I started working on a novel of my own last night, and got 2,660 words done. I’ve been working the details out in my head for months, and I finally have the framework that I want. The metaplot is worked out, but I need to run over details and start smoothing up the rough edges. If I can do 2,000 words a day on it, I’ll be pretty happy. However, I am going to be realistic, and shoot for 5,000 words a week.

Today marks my 1 year anniversary at Circles (the company I work for). The day comes with a $1.00 an hour raise, a bonus check for $100.00, a fleece shirt, and a little party. When I finish here, I’m going to head into work to catch the party. Next week is when I find out what my quarterly productivity bonus is, so I’m looking forward to that. While I don’t know how much it will be, I have been unofficially told that I would be “very happy” with the amount.

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

Oh that is so sweet about your grandmother. What a wonderful way to get a chance to celebrate your grandmother!

Congrats on the anniversary and bonuses!!

Anonymous said...

Woohoo! Lots of good stuff there. Enjoy!

Anonymous said...

My Grandfather did the very same thing! It was wonderful to learn about events from his point of view, as well as his opinion on things. I still have a copy of his 'memoirs" with photos included.
Its such a great way to remember him now, as he is no longer with us.

Good luck with the books,
and dont buy too much Pad Thai with those bonuses!!

Unknown said...

Thanks all! No pad thai with the bonus! I just spent over $450 on my car. Coming on top of $750 2 weeks ago, its left me pretty much ... well, broke.