StoryMash Creative Storytelling Forum

We need some summer fun or goal...something our collective minds can come up with. Maybe multiple ideas that can be carried out. Here are a couple of mine:

1) New contest. No $$$ award necessary. Recognition is more valuable. Get a professional to choose the winners. Don't we have somebody who started at SM and now is a semi-famous writer?

2) Let's put together a Best-Of SM self-published collection. Those of us lucky enough to get selected for publication must share equally in costs (a small run would cost $100-$200 American).

Award winners or published credits could actually go a long way for each of us to promote and/or kick-off our professional writing careers.

What other ideas are there out there?

How about a masher's round. A simple way to continue some stories and to develop camaraderie. It is also good practice for working in other genres beside our own.

Writers offer to participate using the forum. They then choose another participating writer, go to their profile, choose a story, and mash it.

The rules:
1. Choose a story that hasn't been mashed by any other writers other than the original author.
2. If you choose one person, that person cannot choose you right off the bat.
3. Everyone participating comments and ranks everyone's work, including the original story being mashed.

When all the story continuations are posted, we each switch and take on another writer's work, continuing where the previous masher left off.

This continues until everyone participating has mashed on everyone else's story.

See, I knew there was a reason I idolize you JD! You are brillant my friend! lol I like that idea, it sounds fun and interesting enough to keep going. I don't think it would wash out like some of the projects have done because its not just one topic. Good idea. I'd do it!

Idolize? - Uh-oh. :)

That makes two (Including me). Anyone else interested?

Is there any practical way we can communicate to the original author to re-post as a new story so that we can all view the mashing on the first couple pages? There are some real gems over a year old that would be difficult for the rest of us to follow unless one of us is constantly editing a table of contents page in the forum.

No JD...I do not, as yet, idolize you...unless you can juggle, yodel, or moonwalk of course.

Would it be appropriate that the first masher copy and paste their chosen chap as a new story? Absolutely we would give credit to the author and clearly state our intentions to bring this archived piece of someone else's creative mind back to the forefront...then mash the hell out of it.

Okay, I'm scratching my head on this one.
Isn't that what the projects are for?

This is significantly different than the projects. JD's idea has merit in that it allows us to go back to the roots of this site...mashing each other's work. There is a cornucopia of mashable chapters in the archives that will attract someone's interest.

I support the projects. But they only appeal to those of us with an interest in a relatively small handful of story ideas, most of which are thematically focused on fantasy genre.

JD's got a good idea. Maybe the question we should be asking is how can we convert our ideas into fresh new projects?

Katrina - is there a way we could convert this into a project and have it in the Projects section? (For easier access to old and new chapters.)

Ugh - not anyone else interested in idolization. Anyone else interested in joining this "Project?"

WBS - unfortunately, it seems the project section of this site has gone by the wayside since Honey stepped down. Aggeloi has done a great job in getting the current projects finished, but there's no one with the time to really get new projects going again, which is, I think, the reason Alharris posted this thread in the first place.

Al - I'm not certain if reposting the original stories would work, as chapters tend to get lost along the way - especially if someone on the site superposts and floods the main pages. What we could do – if Katrina isn’t able to put this in the projects section - is copy the url for the original chapter an paste it here in the forum.

This idea is supposed to not only encourage mashing, but communication using the forums and comments sections as well. If we communicate - mashers to original author, author to mashers, mashers to mashers, then maybe the forums won't be quite so much like a ghost town and maybe we’ll actually get some good, well rounded, feedback.

(And I don't really think that the projects were all originally leaning towards the fantasy genre. I think that since so many of us write fantasy, our own preferences worked their way into the projects.)

Can't juggle or yodel, or moonwalk - but can write in several genre's and styles (including but not limited to: fantasy, science fiction, poetry, memoir, non-fiction science, non-fiction philosophy, historic fiction, children’s, young adults, theatre/script, comedy, lyrics, ect.), sing both classical and modern music, paint, draw, sculpt, train dogs (Dachshunds and Poodles mostly), cook, crochet, speed read, ect. (Full resumes available upon request.)

:D

I'll definitely see what I can do!

I'M IN!!!

Hurray! It is good to see you back, my friend.

Thank you! I figured after a hiatus like that, I better jump back in with both feet!

I'm in too!

Sweet - So, we have:
DKK
Aggeloi
Djinn
and Me.

Al, you in? WBScott? Anyone else?

What do you think, SM'ers, should we wait a few more days before getting started? (In case anyone else wants to join.)

Count me in!

:D

If ya'll have me...I'm in.

Reference al's initial post, item (2). I've long been thinking that collectively, we've been "wasting" a lot of salable talent here. I think Ethan's initial plan when building this site was to gleen a collection of colaboration stories that he would try to sell to publishers. I think. Whether or not that was actually the plan...it didn't work out and I've been trying (in my odd moments of having nothing else to do) to come up with a way for us...the writer's...to do just what al has suggested. Ah, wave lengths and vibes are truly amazing! LOL.

Reference JD's idea...fantastic, and combined with al's suggestion to publish...doubly so. I'm not sure I understand JD's rule #2. I need explanation, please.

I don't idolize anyone...lol...but, I greatly respect and admire the writing skills of each of you! ;o)

Oh..I think I had an epiphany in regard to rule #2. If I choose to mash a JD story, she can't turn around and choose one of mine? Right?

Can we only pick the un-mashed story start of someone participating in the project?

Sorry, one more question. Do we all work on one story at a time, or all simultaneously? Simultaneously would be great because we wouldn't have the long lag that often occurred in previous projects, but it could get a little confusing, too! lol

Dkk
Aggeloi
Djinn
Al
WWB
Me

We each pick someone else on the list, check out their stories, and pick one story to mash. Say, I picked Agg, Agg picked DKK, Dkk picked WWB, WWB picked Al, Al picked Djinn, and Djinn picked me - then I would choose a story Agg wrote while WWB chooses a story Al wrote, etc. We all mash our individual stories at one time and submit around the same time. We then all comment on each other's works (Including the original) and switch. I would take Agg's story that she continued of Dkk's, Agg would take Dkk's story that originally belonged to WWB, etc. (Kind of like singing in a round but writing instead.)

And yes, I think it is fair that we only choose stories from participators in this project. Kind of a perk for being a part of it. :) And I'll keep track of who's writing what here in the forum so it doesn't get too confusing. (I hope.)

How much longer should we wait for potential participants? Or should we get started now? Let's hear it, SM'ers. What do you think?

Thanks, JD...;o)

We're six at the moment. Do we want to cap the number? I think more than 8 or 10 would become unwieldly. Perhaps an invite to some of the great writer's we haven't seen for awhile. Off the cuff - nash, honey, dogdeity11, Ace, crystalfoo and shadinah come to mind for me?

Hey, al...should we get anymore guys in here...I kinda like the preponderance of women-folk...LOL.

We do think alike. Shame on us. But I'd love to see Vix or crystal Dog, Ace, honey, nash, baz...there's so many good ones out here. We do need to think about an annual anthology.

Agreed. For this though, with shadinah, we have seven. I think we need an even number, so one more or three more. Personally, I'm getting antsy to start...;o). Waiting on JD to wave the green flag.

Aw, I feel so honored to be listed among the greats. I would love to participate. I'll probably kick myself later for taking on another project, but it sounds like a fun one!

Yay! :D

Way, Yay! LOL....Great to have you shad...;o)

Okay, well we don't exactly need an even number for this one (unless you really really like even numbers, WWB). However, since the weekends are particularly slow here on SM, we'll go ahead and wait until Monday to give anyone else the chance to join.

In the mean time, how do you guys want to do this - do you want to choose the author you will be mashing or should I draw names out of a hat? I personally choose names out of a hat to make things both challenging and fair, but it is up to the majority. Let me know by Monday if you can and then we'll get started.

Oh, by the way - for those participating, if you have any stories that you have been meaning to post but haven't yet, now is the time. Whoever gets your name gets to choose what story we all mash upon, so if there is something you'd like to see continued, put it out there. No guarantees it’ll be chosen, but then, we can't mash what isn't available. :D

Choose names out of a hat. As it gets going, if others would like to join in, I say we leave open the possibility for a second flight/heat.

Hat sounds fine, so long as it's a classy one. Fedora is best, top hat or bowler acceptable.

I have a top hat, but it is in storage. How about a fancy mug? I have a really pretty one that has brown and blue flowers. It's sitting on my desk. Will that do? :D

I... suppose. If you MUST...

I like the hat drawing idea. No, not particular about even numbers...;o).

Dunno that someone as odd as me could even things out, but I'm hurting for some structure to writing. I'll ask more questions Monday or Tuesday, but if you want me, I'm in.

For lack of a better word right now - Woohoo! Welcome aboard, Nash!

Is it really you, Nash? Gosh...and I thought you'd gone off and become a legend, never more to be actually heard from...LOL.

Welcome back, my friend!!!! ;o)

Hello? May I play?

Ace! Phenomenal to see you here again...

JD, I'd like to see Ace lace his skates up with us. We'll throw all our sticks at center ice and figure out where we all go soon enough.

Al, I bloody love you. Hockey references are always appreciated.

Are we still joking about my gender? The only problem with that little prank is that now i don't know who is continuing that gag and who doesn't know! :D

Sorry, I presumed too much. But I love chicks with sticks! Especially if they can get away with a check or two when the ref's not looking.

oh man...LOL, again I'm sorry about the mix up in Show Down! Gesh! :)

Ace! Welcome back! Of course you can play. :D

ACE! Hitting for six! Great to see you back here and joining our new game, even if poor al still thinks you're a he...lol.

JD...when do we get the starting list and green flag? ;o)

Thanks for your head's up WWB-- I come and lurk sometimes, but I hadn't been around for a while and would have missed this. :)

JD -- THANKS!

Al -- Anytime sweetcheeks. Smearing some poor sod across the boards is my speciality.

Good Monday Sm'ers! Here's your green flag.

The sign up booth has officially closed for this Masher's Round. Thank you to everyone who will be participating. I greatly look forward to seeing what each of you bring to the table.

I've dipped into my mug (couldn't get the hat out of storage in time) and here are our assignments.

Masher - Original Author

JD - Aggeloi
Dkk - JD
Shadinah - Dkk
WWB - Shadinah
Djinn - WWB
Alharris - Djinn
Ace - Alharris
Nash - Ace
Aggeloi - Nash

So, I'll be taking a look at Aggeloi's work sometime today.

There will be nine rounds total with the original author tying up all lose ends and writing the ending to the story they began.

When you choose your story you want to mash, copy and paste its address here in the forum so we all can read and comment. Do the same with your own mash of the story when you finish round one.

Have fun and happy mashing. I'll post round two when all of round one is completed.

Though WWB and I may be the only two to remember October Chill, this has similarities - nine authors who'll trade chapters, the last of which is responsible for completion. Hmm. I recommend a two-week turnaround. If it's your turn, you get two weeks to add the chapter. If we stretch much further than that, momentum suffers. If it was a contest with money at stake, we'd make the effort.

-- Nash

I remember October Chill quite well...;o).

I think, if we keep alharris' point #2 in mind, (top of the page) we could substitute the impetus of contest money with potential sale of a short story anthology. I agree with Nash...a two week turn around and everyone try (really hard) to eliminate potential snags. If we "allow" more time to complete a chapter we risk the fate of most of the projects that we've tried.

Two weeks? Agreed.

I'm pleased to be delving into your work, WWB. You have some good stuff to choose from...

Thanks, DJ...;o). I'm really curious what you will pick!

Shadinah...could you please drop me an email? lexallen@yahoo.com.
Thanks.

You guys are so nice... I was thinking of only one week turn around. :)

Aggeloi, you didn't make this choice easy. I hope to be able to do this one justice.

A Modern Horror

http://storymash.com/u/Aggeloi/lokalisa/

Speaking of not making the choice easy...

Nash's Soccer Dad

http://storymash.com/u/nashvillebecker/subivova/

If I understand the rules correctly, I can choose a chapter that is a continuing mash of the same author. DJ's stories are all gems. This Masher's Round is a great way for us to really delve deeper into each others' archives. But DJ is quite popular and my coices are quite narrow because they have already been mashed or are part of a bigger project. I would have loved to choose 'Death Benefit' but it was already continued and then dropped. So I am choosing:
http://storymash.com/u/djinndarme/rogiguke/. Mine will be the third chap. DJ already has the first two. That's within rules...right?

I would love to see you continue "Death Benefit", but don't let me influence you, Al. :-)

I have a similar dilemma with shadinah...not personally and not under the definition of "a choice between equally undesirable alternatives" no, no...lol. Lots of great chapters but all but one are in context of a contest or project, or otherwise mashed by another writer.

I think that you need not start with the second or third chapter (by the same author), you can mash from the first chapter. My thoughts are that if, in shadinah's case, I started mashing at chapter 4...by the time nine more mashes were done, we'd have a novella - at least...lol.

Before I make that choice and for al's benefit, as well...what say ye fellow SMer's?

I vote that it is up to you guys as long as you don't continue a story line that requires everyone to do a ton of reading - Dkk, Renaissance is off limits. :D

When writing the rules, I didn't realize this dilemma would come up. Al, if you really want to do Death Benefit, then go for it. Rules are meant to be bent a little and broken if necessary. :D

Running with Ace's A Winter Fail - http://storymash.com/u/Ace/rarutota/

Second chapter up in rare draft form. I'll publish tomorrow.

I say, if it's not too far into the storyline, go ahead and mash it. If the story is half done, might not be the best choice. I know in the case of my "Dirty Laundry", all three chapters could probably have been published as one, but I'm not focused enough to do a long chapter...

Dkk - I was wanting to pick "Jewel Guardians", but wondered if I could edit it a bit and send it to you to re-publish. I believe one of your other chapters is supposed to go with it, but it doesn't seem to be connected, so wasn't sure. You can e-mail me - becka_and_kids@juno.com

Would it be good to share e-mails in case we have questions for the original authors? Or just use the forum?

yeah yeah, edit it! That was so damn long ago, I think it was the first thing I posted on here! lol Do what you must and I will repost it for you. :) E-mail or forum doesn't matter to me much. FYI: sylvestdkk@aol.com

Forum or emails, what ever you're comfortable with.

jessicawillums@msn.com

Chapter 2 to Nash's "Soccer Dad" is up - http://storymash.com/u/Aggeloi/nowotuke/

I don't quite have Nash's knack for dry wit, so in lieu of that, I upped the stakes. Enjoy!

I'm glad someone brought up the fact there are many chapters that are part of contests or larger projects. WWB, you gave me a challenge with choosing because most of your submissions have been gone beyond two or three chapters.

That said, I'm going to try my hand at Jerry's Adventure.

http://storymash.com/u/writerwannabe/gigatipe/

Oh, Cool! I can't wait to see what you do with that...;o)

Okay, WWB - the Dirty Laundry has been sorted, consolidated and thrown in for a spin... http://storymash.com/u/shadinah/masurava/
Have fun!

Jeeze Louise! I feel like I'm with the freakin' A Team of Mashers! Kudos for youse early birds. This old man will try to catch up.

lol A Team of Mashers! You never fail to crack me up Al!

Cool deal, shad..thanks! I'm on like stink on sh...lol.

Before I forget...I'll be mashing shadinah's "Dirty Laundry" at:

http://storymash.com/u/shadinah/masurava/

Wow. All of us on now? Early out west, Shad?

I've posted the second chapter of A Winter Fail

http://storymash.com/u/nashvillebecker/wekiwafe/

In the event someone needs my email, it's my moniker and I'm at Yahoo. Odds are I'll send you a different one, but that's the initial way to reach me.

Yeah, Nash - we're three hours earlier out here... No, just did a quick edit and combining of my original three chapters so WWB could mash it, without turning it into a novella... Though I have also edited DKK's chapter that I want to mash, which has my creative juices flowing in that direction... As for the rest of you who already have chapters posted, I envy your speed. Will try to have a chapter done within the next day or so, if I'm not interrupted by babies, or kids, or work, or general life...

I have decided to switch to DJ's 'Death Benefit'. Another writer had mashed it awhile back but I am creating a new thread off the original chapter 1. I got it presently in draft form at http://storymash.com/u/alharris/todaguko/
I'd appreciate a review b4 I hit publish. WWB's given me some perspective that has already allowed me to edit. Look forward to any and all constructive criticism.

I left you comment on the draft chapter, Al. If you or anyone else needs to email me, feel free. eden.royce@gmail.com

Hey everyone. Please be patient with me. My dog has had seizures the last few days, and we're really hoping we won't have to have her put down tomorrow. Spare a thought for my family if you could. I am still on board with the project, but it might take me another day or two before I can really attack it. My apologies to everyone, especially alharris.

Ace, take care of the family at home. This family can wait. alharris@wayne.edu

Oh, Ace--I'm so sorry you're going through this. I'm thinking of you and your family.

Sorry to hear that!!! Don't worry - you still have plenty of time. I'll say a prayer - That's hard to go through!

You're in my thoughts and prayers, Ace. Best to you and your family.

Take whatever time you need, my friend. We're all here for you. Thoughts, prayers, and well wishes for you and your family from me and mine.

Attention Please: I made some adjustments and republished "Jerry's Adventure", the story start that Djinn was drafted to mash. The new link is here: http://storymash.com/u/writerwannabe/patutube/

Death Benefit, Chapter 2 is up and published.

http://storymash.com/u/alharris/todaguko/

Chapter Two of WWB's Jerry's Adventure is up.

http://storymash.com/u/djinndarme/fopadavi/

Okay I had to scroll a long way down to find something that wasn't related to JD's Rennisance thread, but I decided to go and mash off my favorite story of her's: Bathing.

http://storymash.com/u/JD_Renaissance/kapurase/

A couple of days and I'll have my mash up... of course following after JD is challenging! :)

Sounds good, Dkk. I can't wait to see what you do with it.

Things have been hectic here all of a sudden, but I hope to have my chapter posted in the next couple of days.

okay wait, I just noticed it's been mashed off of already and then you mashed off of that one. So can I still do this one? If not, no worries, you have a ton to choose from.

JD- I found one of yours that has never been mashed and decided to try that one instead. Simply amazing that I haven't read this before, it's very good. So I am mashing JD's Robin's Rabbit.

http://storymash.com/u/JD_Renaissance/tekopopu/

Hey everyone -- I'm back. So sorry about the wait. The good news is the big white pup is feeling better. We've got her on meds that are helping with the seizures. The bad news is that the vet is pretty sure that the seizures are a result of a brain tumour. We're not willing to do thousands of dollars worth of tests to find out, not when we wouldn't be able to do anything about it anyway, so we're just treating the symptoms and getting on with life as normal. So far so good.

I'll look everything over again and get my butt in gear today. Thanks for being so understanding everyone (especially alharris). And thanks for your messages of support. I can't tell you how much that was appreciated. *hugs to all*

(((Hugs back atcha Ace))) Now stop apologising. It gave me time to put up several new drafts to the Peter Kogut story, any one of which you can use as a first chapter as far as I'm concerned. Other than that it's slim pickins from me. There's Crockpot, Caring for the Princess, and Vengence is Mine. That's about it. Sorry I didn't label all my poems. I just feel lucky as hell that the writer to start my mash is someone who knows who Don Cherry is. Before I'm done I plan on working Mr. C into someone's story somewhere...maybe yours. Good luck, kiddo!

Hehe, I've cheated in a way. WWB is familiar with your work, so he's already given me hints on which to check out, in order to avoid going through lots of poetry (not that I'd mind reading your poetry--I'm a fan!). I'm looking at the ones he picked, then the ones you suggested, then I'll make my decision and be all over this like me on a cheesecake. I love cheesecake.

Ace, sorry for the late response to your worries (no excuse) but, glad to see you're holding up and back in the show...;o). Looking forward to your usual great writing!

Glad to hear you're back! And sorry to hear that it's likely a tumor - not good :( But I'm glad you're able to continue on - I hope you're able to find peace and strength when the time does come. I know how hard that is!!!

Glad you're back, Ace. You're showing great strength at a difficult time.

Ok shadinah edited the story she wants to mash of mine, so I reposted it for her and everyone else's benefit.
Jewel Guardians
http://storymash.com/u/dkk4510/pibofefe/

Off with your heads, all of you for not making writers such as myself aware of this...my name was not even mentioned amongst the greats. I want in next go around.

You are absolutely right BH. I would love to see a second flight. Let's get Baz and some of the others on board. There is no reason why another group can't jump in. Kinda like the American and National league for all you American baseball fans. Then we could have inter-league play!

Great idea, Al.

I, for one, would love to continue one of your stories, TBH. (Not that I would monopolize the projects and join the American and National Leagues)

DJ, you could still mash TBH's story during inter-league play. Yankees v Dodgers! I wanna ticket to that game.

Certainly, no offense intended TBH. I'm just old and feeble minded at times...;o).

Okay, sorry for the delay - here is the update for League One (for lack of a better name at this point. Al, you taking on League Two?):

JD is taking on Aggeloi's "A Modern Horror"

Dkk is taking on JD's "Robin's Rabbit"

Shadinah is taking on Dkk's "Jewel Guardians"

WWB is taking on Shadinah's "Dirty Laundry"

Djinn has taken on WWB's "Jerry's Adventure" and has posted “Jerry’s Adventure – Chapter 2”

Alharris has taken on Djinn’s “Death Benefit” and has posted “Death Benefit..Chapter 2”

Ace will be taking on one of Alharris’ stories. (No rush, Ace. Take your time.)

Nash has taken on Ace’s “A Winter Fail” and has posted “A Winter Fail (2)”

Aggeloi has taken on Nash’s “Soccer Dad” and has posted “Coaching on the Run”

Instead of scrolling through all the comments – unless you like scrolling through all the comments – here are the addresses to the originals and the newly posted.

A Modern Horror: http://storymash.com/u/Aggeloi/lokalisa/
Robin’s Rabbit: http://storymash.com/u/JD_Renaissance/tekopopu/
Jewel Guardians (Revised): http://storymash.com/u/dkk4510/pibofefe/
Dirty Laundry: http://storymash.com/u/shadinah/masurava/
Jerry’s Adventure (Revised): http://storymash.com/u/writerwannabe/patutube/
Death Benefit: http://storymash.com/u/djinndarme/kifepipe/
A Winter Fail: http://storymash.com/u/Ace/rarutota/
Soccer Dad: http://storymash.com/u/nashvillebecker/subivova/

Jerry’s Adventure – Chapter 2: http://storymash.com/u/djinndarme/fopadavi/
Death Benefit..Chapter 2: http://storymash.com/u/alharris/todaguko/
A Winter Fail (2): http://storymash.com/u/nashvillebecker/wekiwafe/
Coaching on the Run: http://storymash.com/u/Aggeloi/nowotuke/
http://storymash.com/u/writerwannabe/gigatipe/

I will gladly stand in as the league Commissioner for League Two if TBH and at least 5 others would like to sign up. We want writers with available stories that need mashing anew. Any players out there?

Damn, you're efficient!! Sure makes it easy on us lazybone types...thanks!!

After the first round, how do we know which story to switch to? I could try to find the answer amongst all the comments, but with a high-powered, multi-orgas...er, organizational wizard like you, JD...sheesh, I'll just ask..lol

In keeping with a true round, you'll be mashing the same author throughout. So, since you mashed Shad's "Dirty Laundry" now you'll be mashing her second chapter of Dkk's Jewel Guardians.

I could have made it so we never mash the same author twice - but that would be far too complicated - even for my orgas...er, organizational skills. :D

For those of you who have an opportunity to begin round two - by all means start writing. But no posting any round two chapters until round one is finished. Please. :)

Wow, organizational Goddess! lol

At first I thought that the repostings of chapters as new stories would get in the way of other writers who are not on the project. I am having second thoughts. I see that the reposting of the 2 chapters thus far has created not only interest in the project but it is also bringing the focus of the website back to its roots...the art of the mash. Should we all repost? JD?

Well the only reason I did that was because shadinah edited my story and requested I repost the edited version so that she can mash off the correct one. I don't think we should all go crazy and repost stories from long past.

Repost? We can do that? TOSD.

Kind of. It is basically posting a new chapter with "Revised" in the title. If you want to re-post and want to delete your original - shoot Katrina an email and she'll help you out.

This sounds like a cool thing to do.

I'm not a great writer and all, but I would love to give this a try.

Both you and Hadley are welcome to join a 2nd flight...but we need some more stories outta youse guys. Joel, you got a great self-mashed story going. We're trying to focus on non-mashed or underdeveloped stories that have at least 5 more chapters left in them. I suggest that a 2nd flight should have at least 6 mashers. Now Hadley, my dear...we can't mash poetry...I don't think. OK, I have mashed some of yours and enjoyed doing it. Can poets gather together for a masher's round of epic poetry writing? Hmmmm. That could work. Regardless, we would love having both of you following along to give us objective feedback and support. For my fellow mashers in the current round, I will have a draft of the 3rd installment of Jerry's Adventure up within 48 hrs. I'll keep it a draft for another 48 hours so that you can help me iron out the bugs like you did on DJ's 'Death Benefit'. I've been spending the last 3 hours at the neighborhood 'adult' boutique to get a feel for the WWB's story. Oh, Oh...we need a mop in aisle three...again.

Don't post Jerry's Adventure 3 just yet, Alharris. Keep it as a draft until round one is complete. Some of us haven't had a chance to do our first mash yet. Don't want you mash-maniacs getting ahead of us. :)

You can run League Two as you see fit - poetry and participants are your choice.

As for the re-post of original chapters - I don't think it will work this time around because some of the originals have their round one chapters added. For those of you who haven't had your story mashed yet, the decision is yours. Unless Dkk wants a rewrite, I'll leave Robin's Rabbit as it is.

I'm good!

No problamemo. I hate clicking that damn Publish icon anyways. As far as 2nd League goes, that door is open and will remain open. If you build it they will come...and you damn sure built it, JD. If there are interested parties, stop partying and submit your interest. Baz, sober up and contact us! Bring some friends. OK,ok,ok,ok...back to the Adult Boutique for more background research to 'Jerry's Adventure'. Let's hope they don't kick me out again.

Cool. I'll keep checking this out.

Thanks, Joel. I hope you do. Your comments and votes are most welcome.

Okay ya'll, I'm back in the game. About halfway done with my Part Two of alharris's's's Crockpot. (al, I freakin' LOVE this story-- there's no way I can top what you wrote, but at least I'm trying to keep the voice of the piece. Wish me luck!)

Colour me stupid, but I forgot to add the link to the story -- http://storymash.com/u/alharris/sipigeho/

Okay, someone refresh my memory-- are we supposed to rate and comment on the original story? And then rate and comment on everyone else's sequels? i don't want to miss anything I'm supposed to do.

Please share comments. Scoring is up to each of us. I don't think for the purpose of the Masher's Round that the scores will play a part...the goal is to complete all chapters with our best efforts and hope we can keep the stories entertaining and moving to creative conclusions.

Yes, Ace - rate and comment on all stories including the originals. The comments are, I think, the true purpose of the Masher's Round. I know we all want some completed stories out there, but we also need good feedback on how to better our craft. Scores - not so important, but fun and helpful when done appropriately.

I know I'm new and all but I really hope I get off my butt and post my first story/chapter so I can possibly join in the next round with you guys. But as of right now I'll join in and help out with comments and follow along like a lost little puppy!

I'm in...just tell me when.
djinndarme, you are a gem. Thank you for all your support. wwb, I get a little feebleminded myself, so no need for apologies. You all are fantastic writers.

TBH, we need you and 5 others to make a 6 team masher's round. More would be cool but 6 is just fine. Some of the new folks have expressed interest. If they have a mashable chapter or two they are certainly welcome to join. I'll set the initial assignments up. We got TBH in for flight two. Who else?

Posted "Dirty Laundry - 2" as a draft. I know that weekends are slow here, but as I'll be flying Monday morning, I want to publish Sunday night (that's mid to late afternoon for most of you)..;o).
So, if there are any comments, and I hope there are...Here's the link:
http://storymash.com/u/writerwannabe/hogihewu/

Slept on it...decided posting something as a draft was out of character for me...lol. Although alharris was really quick and helped with a grammar issue, time's up. Posting in 5, 4, 3, 2, 1....done!

Hey shadinah, and Katrine, heads up because I tried to view your mash draft off of my Jewel Guardians and it came up blank. I couldn't see anything and I know we sometimes have that issue on here. So I'm not sure that it won't fix itself when you actually post it or if it is still going to be an issue. Anyone else tried to view it yet? Anyways, just a head up in case in becomes a problem later on! ;)

I have this issue with Internet Explorer. If you can, try Mozilla Firefox. I don't know why IE does it, but I think it has something to do with font or formatting.

JD- almost done!

Sounds great, Dkk. Email me if you need anything. :D

Just waiting for Sav to proofread for me and then she's up. It's been so long since I've posted anything on this site...all I remember was how frustrating it was when i tried to copy and paste stories-- how all my formating would get eaten by the SM goblins. I don't suppose that's changed much?

My original was alharris's "Crockpot" -- I follow it up with "Stovetop." Here she is: http://storymash.com/u/Ace/lulagetu/

I guess I'm the slacker this round. :) I'm nearly finished with my chapter and hope to have it up tomorrow some time.

You aren't the only slacker, but I will have mine posted tonite.

Sounds good. "A Modern Horror - 2" is up in draft form.

http://storymash.com/u/JD_Renaissance/voledehi/

Okkie dokkie, Robin Rabbit - 2 is up in draft form. Maybe I should leave it that way for a day or so until JD approves?

http://storymash.com/u/dkk4510/bekarugi/

Lol - approves? I'm supposed to approve? Hm... does this mean that Aggeloi gets to approve "A Modern Horror - 2" before I publish it? :D

lol Fine I will be proactive and publish it. No approval nessacary! ;) Just thought I'd give you a chance to check and make sure I didn't butcher it! lol

Published and done!
Robin's Rabbit - 2
http://storymash.com/u/dkk4510/bekarugi/

Published "A Modern Horror - 2"

http://storymash.com/u/JD_Renaissance/voledehi/

So...is that the end of round 1? Everyone done?

Not yet.

Shadinah, you ready to publish Jewel Guardians - 2?

oh it just figures, scatter brain me forgot the person who's supposed to mash off of mine...lol

So sorry I'm so slow - life's been insane. I have a draft posted that is complete now http://storymash.com/u/shadinah/rutugosa/

I'm just waiting on some editing advice before I publish, but plan to do so tomorrow night.

No worries, Shad. Life has a way of getting in the way sometimes. :)

I'll take a look at it today and give you some feed back. As soon as you post, I'll put up round two here in the forum.

Again, sorry I'm so slow, but it's now up and published!

Alright, SM'ers - don't forget to read and comment on both the originals and the continuations for the first round in this summer's Masher's Round.

Comments = feedback = better writing.

Thanks! :)

Oh crap. Thanks for the reminder JD. Count me among the slackers.

Round One is complete! Thanks to all participants and readers.

Here are the original stories and their links:

A Modern Horror:
http://storymash.com/u/Aggeloi/lokalisa/
Robin’s Rabbit:
http://storymash.com/u/JD_Renaissance/tekopopu/
Jewel Guardians (Revised):
http://storymash.com/u/dkk4510/pibofefe/
Dirty Laundry:
http://storymash.com/u/shadinah/masurava/
Jerry’s Adventure (Revised):
http://storymash.com/u/writerwannabe/patutube/
Death Benefit:
http://storymash.com/u/djinndarme/kifepipe/
Crockpot:
http://storymash.com/u/alharris/sipigeho/
A Winter Fail:
http://storymash.com/u/Ace/rarutota/
Soccer Dad:
http://storymash.com/u/nashvillebecker/subivova/

And here are the continuations:

A Modern Horror – 2:
http://storymash.com/u/JD_Renaissance/voledehi/
Robin’s Rabbit –2:
http://storymash.com/u/dkk4510/bekarugi/
Jewel Guardians – 2:
http://storymash.com/u/shadinah/rutugosa/
Dirty Laundry – 2:
http://storymash.com/u/writerwannabe/hogihewu/
Jerry’s Adventure – Chapter 2:
http://storymash.com/u/djinndarme/fopadavi/
Death Benefit..Chapter 2:
http://storymash.com/u/alharris/todaguko/
Stovetop:
http://storymash.com/u/Ace/lulagetu/
A Winter Fail (2):
http://storymash.com/u/nashvillebecker/wekiwafe/
Coaching on the Run:
http://storymash.com/u/Aggeloi/nowotuke/

Here’s the lineup for Round Two: (Original Story Title – Round Two Masher)

A Modern Horror – Dkk
Robin’s Rabbit – Shadinah
Jewel Guardians – WWB
Dirty Laundry – Djinn
Jerry’s Adventure – Alharris
Death Benefit – Ace
Stovetop – Nash
A Winter Fail – Aggeloi
Coaching on the Run – JD

Unless someone objects, we’ll keep to the two weeks time limit. Happy Mashing!

(Okay, I'm reposting this to make it a little easier to see.)

Here’s the lineup for Round Two: (Original Story Title – Round Two Masher)

A Modern Horror – Dkk
Robin’s Rabbit – Shadinah
Jewel Guardians – WWB
Dirty Laundry – Djinn
Jerry’s Adventure – Alharris
Death Benefit – Ace
Stovetop – Nash
A Winter Fail – Aggeloi
Coaching on the Run – JD

Unless someone objects, we’ll keep to the two weeks time limit. Happy Mashing!

Ugh - I just noticed a couple of oopsies -

Stovetop is chapter two of Alharris' original Crockpot.
Coaching on the Run is the second chapter of Nash's Soccer Dad.

The above should read:

Crockpot - Nash
Soccer Dad - JD

So we all follow each other around like lost puppies? K, got it. ;)

Well... you know how much I like puppies. :D

Jerry's Adventure draft is up. http://storymash.com/u/alharris/huvudowa/ I am looking for any and all feedback, but particularly from the previous writers, WWB and DJ. Did I leave anything out from the beginning chapters that I should consider b4 publishing? Is the Jerry character co...co...consistent?

After some fine-tuning, Jerry's Adventure Chap 3 is published. http://storymash.com/u/alharris/huvudowa/

brownie points for the first one to publish this round! ;)

Hmmm, I just noticed something. If we're just rotating the stories we're doing, we're always going to be following the same author. Not that I'm unhappy about following alharris, but if we really want to stretch our writing wings so to speak, it might be a good idea to mix things up a tiny bit. It would be simple to do, next time give everyone a story that was just written by the person two places ahead of them. You can switch it up in that manner without breaking the circle of writers, and therefor we'll never have the problem of someone writing the same story twice or missing out on writing on any stories. However, because we followed the same author for the second round, it will mean that everyone will not get to write after one author in the group.

Everyone following me? I can explain further if necessary.

I do understand. However, since this is the first Masher's Round on SM, I wanted things as uncomplicated as possible to see how it goes. In the future, or with Alharris' group two, if participants want to change it up, they are more than welcome to. But for now, I think it should stay the way it is.

What say you, SM'ers?

Agree, better to simplify it now and then as needs grow and evolve, change it up later on to suite whomever's own advantages. This worked for this group fine, but it may not for everyone... Good point Ace.

Hmmm. May I try and press the point a bit more? I mean, I really was looking forward to following different authors, not just continue different authors' original stories.

Honestly, it's not complicated at all. if you put all the names in a circle, it's extremely easy to see how it would work. It's as simple as the way it's being done now.

Just saying. I thought a huge part of this exercise was to really mix things up. And I think the variety would give us far more of a challenge and make it more fun for everyone. If people really aren't interested, I'll give it up, but does everyone want to follow the same person's chapters every time? Nash is going to be after me every session -- he can't be happy about that! ;)

Ace, I leave it up to the others. Majority vote wins.

I vote we leave it the same for now. I have no issues following Aggeloi through the nine rounds, as I will also, in essence, be following Nash, You, Alharris, Djinn, WWB, Shadinah, Dkk, and myself. With each additional chapter added, we aren't just mashing off the person who worked on it before us, we're mashing off of Everyone who worked on it before us. This is challenge enough for me, for now.

Not that your idea doesn't have merit. I really would like to see a Masher's Round done this way sometime in the future. I might even join, depending on what life throws my way. (Or I might have already joined, if the majority is for change.) :D

On a side note, and to get a discussion started:

What I love regarding this Masher's Round is the plethora of genres and styles being worked on. While some of us write mostly science fiction and fantasy, others are prone to life stories, drama, comedy, thriller, etc. The same goes for tense and POV – past and present tense are both being used this round as well as third person and first person POV’s. These difference will eventually cause each one of us to break out of our comfort zones in order to mash and keep the round going. (I, for one, am having a heck of a time writing my continuation of Nash’s Soccer Dad and Aggeloi’s continuation, Coaching on the Run, because I find first person present writing very difficult.)

What really struck me as interesting, however, is our reactions to reading the different genres - especially those we don't write. While my personal choice in genres allow my style to be descriptive, other genres are not so... forgiving(?). So, when I go to read one of the thriller chapters, I have to remember that what I am used to as a fantasy/scifi writer doesn't necessarily apply to thrillers. The same goes for comedy, drama, and all other genres.

I think, along with getting us out of our writing shells, this Masher’s Round is also getting us out of our critiquing shells. I’m finding that I can’t critique everyone’s stories based solely upon how I alone write. I am forced to discover the standards of each genre, as well as the styles of each writer to understand the pacing, flow, structure, etc. Only when I truly understand what I’m reading can I give good, useful feedback.

Any thoughts, fellow Mashers? Are you finding yourself critiquing based on your own standards of writing, or are you adapting for each story. Which is harder, writing a foreign genre or critiquing one?

Since this is JD's baby...and a mighty fine baby it is, I am willing to follow JD's lead for this Mash. I totally agree that in the next Mash we mix it up. Having said that, is it possible for individual pairs to swap assignments for a single chapter...but then return to the determinmed order so that neither ends up mashing their own stories?

I find myself sandwiched between two women, once again thinking Dog would be more prepared with better one-liners. While I don't mind following Ace and I don't envy the prospect of making sure everyone follows everyone, you could pretty much take the graph put together for October Chill - 9 authors in that one too - and substitute most of hte names. (http://storymash.com/u/dogdeity11/dakokafe/) Which is to say I'd prefer mixing it up.

As for critiquing, I'm only reading the stories when I get involved with them. I don't foresee spending the energy for a full Nash rant about a story unless specifically asked. There are definite challenges of bending your style to each genre, and yet, I like to think I'm influencing each genre with my own style as I contribute. Could be my ego. Hmm. This is why I tried my hand at the Sword & Sandal, Epic, and Gothic, as none of those were my style either. The bigger a strike zone you have as a writer, the more dingers you'll hit.

At what point is JD (or whomever) picking up the ball and trying to stretch this project beyond the walls of SM? I'm willing to chip in my "entry fee," so to speak, but I'd like this to at least get further than the Horror Anthology Project.

Ideally, I'll have the next Stovetop up tonight. Plus a steak dinner and a nice back massage from the missus. Realistically, I'm looking at 1-for-3.

Just like me to publish, then realize I skipped a word in the first sentence. Oops. http://storymash.com/u/nashvillebecker/helifuru/

In regards to "the ball" and my picking it up:

I've emailed Katrina asking for some information on SM's options regarding publishing outside of the site, as this is a goal of the website as much as it is the individual writers. If no options are available at this time through SM, I'll be doing some research to see where we can take this.

JD and Ace, I understand both points of view for this summer "project". I'm happy either way, really.

If pressed, I would say mix it up. If we are going to challenge ourselves, let's toss that thirteen sided die and see what we come up with. (Sorry, geek reference.)

As far as giving critiques, I tend to give a general impression of the chapter. If there is a grammar issue or something that doesn't seem to "work", I'll mention it, but I find my comments painfully brief. I'll work on that. I do take the genre into consideration before commenting. It's easy for me to suspend belief when reading stories, so I give a great deal of leeway where that is concerned.

In addition, I'd love to be involved in an SM anthology and volunteer to assist in whatever way I can to make sure we bring it to fruition.

Actually, more and more I'm fine with how things are... as much as I'd love to write after other people's chapters, I appreciate how everyone should at least be attempting to keep the same "voice" through the story, and that should be providing most of the variety.

Well said, Ace! I found that DJ did such a great job keeping the voice and writing style consistent for Jerry's Adventure that I felt that I was following WWB's story.

Okay guys, writing my usual long-winded critiques is kicking my ****, since there are so many to do. Also, I just lost one that took me quite a while to write, so I'm switching to a barebones version. they might sound rushed or terse, but it's just for speed and nothing personal. Also, feel free to ask for explanations or examples-- you know I'd include them myself, but it's just taking way too much time for me to write like normal.

Draft of "A Winter Fail (3) is posted. If you leave comments by tomorrow, I can make changes before publishing :)

http://storymash.com/u/Aggeloi/hifasoti/

And now it's published! Thanks to everyone who caught me on Toronto vs. Florida!

Al, sorry for the slow response, who did you want to switch with and is it for this round? I don't think it will be a problem.

I am fine with the current arrangement. But if anyone wishes to create a little variety and needs a masher to swap, I'll gladly consider it. Thanks, JD, for your ability to compromise. It's a great attribution of leadership. (I ain't much good at leadership, myself. Buttkissing is my forte).

Wow, nearly two days with no action on here? Where did everyone go?

Yeah, guess everyone has been/is busy. I know I won't be able to post my continuation of Soccer Dad for another couple of days.

Ace, do you have an email address I can send a question to?

Absolutely! It's:

ace.hits.for.six@gmail.com

Question away!

Busy doesn't begin to describe it. I should have my continuation of Dirty Laundry posted in the next several days, though.

The next chapter for "Soccer Dad" is up in draft form, titled "Mad Dash"

I'll go ahead and leave it up for a day or two before I publish. Let me know if I need to fix anything. :)

The third chapter of "Dirty Laundry" is posted as a draft. Please let me know your thoughts before I publish.

http://storymash.com/u/djinndarme/mebesuro/

Hey all,

How many people are still outstanding for this chapter? I know I still am, but we've gone a few days without any updates here. I know our deadline was two weeks, but no one's really called anyone out. Should we say just three more days for everyone to finish up? Maybe a new deadline will light a fire under our collective asses?

Let's make this Friday the new deadline. Those of you who still need to post, shoot me an email if you need help or have concerns. (jessicawillums@msn.com)

I know things have been hectic for several of us, but lets not let this project fizzle out. I'll have my chapter added to and posted tonight or tomorrow at the latest. I look forward to seeing everyone's continuations soon.

And a big shout out and thank you to those diligent participants who have already written and posted their chapters. Your timeliness is much appreciated and hopefully soon to be emulated.

Hey gang, sorry I haven't been around, had surgery and was restrited to the bed. Give me a few days? (Friday does sound good)

Oh wow, I'll be thinking about you and sending good wishes your way. Get better soon.

No worries, Dkk. Hope all is well and that you have a swift recovery.

"Mad Dash" - my continuation of Nash's original "Soccer Dad" has been fixed and re-posted.

http://storymash.com/u/JD_Renaissance/tafateri/

Unfortunately, when trying to insert the new text into the old draft, the formatting kept messing up. In the end, I had to delete the original and start all over. My apologies to those of you who left such helpful comments on the original, as your comments were also, inadvertently, deleted.

I'm going to leave this version up as a draft for a day and will publish it tomorrow. Thanks for all your help and advice in making this chapter better. I hope you enjoy. :)

I thought that I would be able to get some writing done while on vacation...nope. I figured I'd get it down this week after vacation, regardless of the jet lag that always kicks my butt...nope. So, now it's Thursday afternoon and tomorrow is the deadline.

Tomorrow I have a gig and Saturday another one. Sunday, I'll be recovering from the gigs. Can I please have an extension until..umm, midnight pacific time on Tuesday? Heh, that's gives me until Wednesday 9 am, Central European Time...lol.

If it is alright with the others, I say Wednesday is fine. Dkk is still recovering, so this will give her time also.

What say you, Mashers? Should we cut WWB some slack?

:D

Just published "Mad Dash"

Thanks to everyone for their help with this one.

http://storymash.com/u/JD_Renaissance/tafateri/

Glad I'm not the only slow one! lol - Robin's Rabbit has a new chapter, and while I eagerly await the next round, I am happy to cut my fellow mashers some slack. :)

We can cut them some slack :)

Muchas gracias, Senora's y senorita's bonita! ;o)

good because I foresee a return trip to the doctor... but I promise I'll stick to the new slacked extension deadline

Heh, I appreciate the extended deadline, but I'm going to be busting my **** to have this done tonight. Through no fault of the previous authors, this one was like pulling teeth for me. Just couldn't get things going. So now that I'm on a roll, better git 'er done. Can't wait to finally read everyone's chapters!

Heh, I appreciate the extended deadline, but I'm going to be busting my **** to have this done tonight. Through no fault of the previous authors, this one was like pulling teeth for me. Just couldn't get things going. So now that I'm on a roll, better git 'er done. Can't wait to finally read everyone's chapters!

Okay my beauties, Chapter 3 of "Death Benefit" is up under the title of "The Permanent Arrangement." You can find it here: http://storymash.com/u/Ace/tipenomi/ And now I'm going to go sleep for more than four hours tonight. Wake me on Monday.

Oh, WEDNESDAY is the deadline! I was wondering why no stories had been posted yesterday. I was starting to get worried. :)

Wednesday, 9am, Central European Time. :)

Heh, sorry. I'm a tit and don't read things properly.

It's Tuesday, 2235 Central European Time and I'm only half way done with my next chapter. I guess I'm the last, huh?

I'm sorry, but I'm going to need a tad more time...;o(

Still waiting on Dkk's also. No worries. Life happens.

You know, before I added to Djinn's "Death Benefit" story, I noticed in the comments that she didn't want to say what she originally intended for the story so as not to influence the other writers in the project. That fascinated me. After this project is done, I'd LOVE to hear what other people would have done with their own stories, other stories... anything. Maybe your starting chapter went way off from where you would have taken it, maybe there was one chapter you did on a different story that you were disappointed you couldn't continue with. I know that in my head I had another couple chapters plotted out for Djinn's, and i REALLY want to know what she had planned. Maybe when this is done anyone who is willing to share could throw up an extra comment on this page and make a run down of any of the stories that you had a plan for? Just a sentence or two, that way it'll stay short and be a lesson in brevity. Anyone interested?

This is a great idea, Ace. I would love to hear how others would have taken their stories or, if given the chance, some of the continuing chapters.

Great idea, Ace.

I'd love to know what the original authors intended for their stories, too. I'll participate and write a few lines on my intentions when the project is complete.

Man, I wish I'd come to this site about 3 months earlier.

Alharris is organizing group two. If you are interested, let him know. :)

I take it I would absolutely be interfering if I wrote a response to "mad dash". It's the first thing I've read that I feel brave enough to write on, and I think that's mostly because its already got 3 authors.
*
I've already started writing, so I guess I'm just asking if it's okay to publish a draft or is it something I should just tuck into my doc folder.

Publish it. This is an open site, so you can continue whatever story you feel like. The next author to contribute in this round will just create a new chapter 4.

I look forward to seeing what you do with the story so far.

Everyone can stop waiting on me, I published. Sorry, its not as long as I would like it to be, but still recovering and I think I got my intentions down clearly. Enjoy!

A Modern Horror - 3

http://storymash.com/u/dkk4510/demopuko/

Draft up. And I don't mind at all if it's continued or not. I enjoyed the pleasure of being inspired by the authors :)

I've finally posted my next chapter "Jewel Guardians - 3". It's located here:

http://storymash.com/u/writerwannabe/fomugisi/

I planned to put it up as a draft but hit the danged publish button instead! Now, we'll all have to live with it - for better or worse. Maybe I'll be sorry about that - maybe not...;o)

Well Mashers, we've hit a slow patch but hopefully things will pick up again with round 3.

Here are the continuations. Thanks to everyone for your wonderful chapters! Don't forget to do some reading and commenting.

A Modern Horror 3 – http://storymash.com/u/dkk4510/demopuko/
Robin’s Rabbit 3 – http://storymash.com/u/shadinah/warimuki/
Jewel Guardians 3 – http://storymash.com/u/writerwannabe/fomugisi/
Dirty Laundry – http://storymash.com/u/djinndarme/mebesuro/
Jerry’s Adventure 3 – http://storymash.com/u/alharris/huvudowa/
Death Benefit 3 – http://storymash.com/u/Ace/tipenomi/
Crockpot 3 – http://storymash.com/u/nashvillebecker/helifuru/
A Winter Fail 3 – http://storymash.com/u/Aggeloi/hifasoti/
Soccer Dad 3 – http://storymash.com/u/JD_Renaissance/tafateri/

And here is the line up for round 3:

A Modern Horror – Shadinah
Robin’s Rabbit – WWB
Jewel Guardians – Djinn
Dirty Laundry –Alharris
Jerry’s Adventure – Ace
Death Benefit – Nash
Crockpot – Aggeloi
A Winter Fail – JD
Soccer Dad – Dkk

For those of you who don't know, we've had another writer contribute to the Masher's Round. Cleokatrah has graced us with her own chapter 4 of Nash's "Soccer Dad." Dkk - I leave it up to you whether you continue where Cleo left off or from the previous chapter.

A big shout out to Cleo for her contribution!

As per the above discussion regarding switching it up, anyone is more than welcome to trade their chapters. Just let me know so I can keep track of everything.

Round 3's deadline is Friday September 6th. Let me know if you need more time of are having difficulties.

Happy Mashing!

Draft for Dirty Laundry Chap 4 is up. http://storymash.com/u/alharris/kegahoba/

Al, I'm impressed. That's speedy work there!

Ace, since you are next, feel free to look over the draft and send me any requests that you might have to ease into your next chap. If you want, email it to me, alharris@wayne.edu. I'll leave this chap up as a draft for a week or so.

Woah, this is crazy. I've been gone awhile, but is there a way for someone to jump in on this awesome thing?

What a subtle dying.

I don't know if it's end of the summeritis, a genuine lack of enthusiasm, or the realization that we're not even halfway through our niners, but the sudden excitement void is concerning. Especially when other quality writers want in. (Hey, Cheese, good to see you.) If Al's running v.2 of this mess, we should at least make v.1 look enticing.

With a[n extended] deadline less than two weeks away, I'll be shocked if everyone gets their chapters finished on time. Momentum is huge for writers. And this project's ball is teetering precariously close to the edge, if it's not already been dropped. Bummer.

Chapter 4 of Death Benefit is up in draft form. http://storymash.com/u/nashvillebecker/bonavore/

I'm sooo sorry, Cheese, for taking so long to get back to you.

I know that Alharris is organizing another group doing pretty much what we're doing. I'm not sure how many people have contacted him on it yet. If there are still too few to join his, I'm sure we can figure out a way to "mash" you in. :)

Thoughts and ideas, fellow Mashers?

I think that it's a great time to start the second flight if there is at least 6 new mashers willing to commit their creative energies. Let's face it, a new group might be just the competition we need to help motivate the rest of us. So is there enough interest. I have a slightly diff format in mind that will allow newbies to hit the ground running. Cheese? Cleo? Tommygun? Joel? TBH? Who is in? Will start 9/10/10 if there is 6 volunteers.

I am still in for Round One, too. But I'm excited to have another group of stories posted.

I'm in alharris.

I will also do my best to post on time. Life has been hectic of late. But, I have something to show for it! I got a story accepted into an anthology and it became available this week.

Would it be pushy to start a thread here about it and post a link to it on Amazon?

Congratulations! By all means, start a thread and post a link. :D

I'm still in, and I'll have mine in on time. My apologies to everyone -- I haven't touched a single person's story since I posted my own. I'm like the proverbial headless chicken at work and home at the moment, but I'm still whole-heartedly in.

Same here, Ace. I recall a beautiful series of stories similar to this, a year or so ago, that was HOT for the first 4 or 5 rounds and then...slowly died off. I'd hate to see that happen again. So, even though I was way late on my last chapter installment; I won't be again! Hope everyone joins me in that mindset...;o)

I wanted to add: I think it really important for all of the writer's in this mash read and comment on their peers. Case in point (and there are several others): alharris posted a draft of his next chapter about a week ago. With one exception, no one has commented. He posted a draft to solicit comments and make his addition to that storyline better (not that it needs to be better). Please, everyone in the mash, read-comment-post your chapters and reap the rewards..;o)

Thanks WWB. But I know everyone is busy. To be fair, DJ actually helped me out quite a bit on my Dirty Laundry chapter. This is actually my 2nd draft. I deleted the first one. Since we're doing plugs for other mashers, everyone's gotta check out Nash's new addition to Death Benefit. It is first class!

I have...it is!! ;o)

Al, since we emailed about your Dirty Laundry chapter, I neglected to comment on SM. Going to remedy that now.

"A Winter Fail (4)" is up in draft form.

http://storymash.com/u/JD_Renaissance/nodosovi/

The new Crockpot chapter - "A Frosty Dilemma" - is up in draft form.

http://storymash.com/u/Aggeloi/bakaputa/

Now published :)

I know we have had slow progress on this project, but participating in this has helped my writing. I'd like to think I've learned a bit, some of it from other writers here at SM.

I posted "Death Benefit" over a year ago and it is fascinating to me to go back and analyze it now. I'm enjoying the direction the story is taking, too.

Hope to have the next chapter of "Jewel Guardians" up soon.

One week down, Mashers, one to go before this round's deadline. The sooner we submit and publish, the sooner we'll get to round 4. :)

To those of you who have already submitted and published - Thank you! Your chapters are amazing. Those who haven't had a chance to read and comment, I highly recommend doing so - everyone has done an incredible job thus far not only in this round but in previous rounds also. It is amazing to see how each story has maintained its original voice throughout. Well done Mashers!

To those of you who are still working on your chapters, let me know if you don't think you'll make the deadline and we'll work something out - perhaps have another masher jump in and offer their assistance if necessary.

Let's keep Flight One of this summer's Masher's Round going strong!

"A Winter Fail (4)" has been published. Thanks to everyone who gave their two cents and helped me make it a better chapter. :D

http://storymash.com/u/JD_Renaissance/nodosovi/

I have the beginnings of a rough draft up for A Modern Horror (4). This story seems to run long, so bear with me... :)

Posted is a rough draft - about a half to three quarters complete for Robin's Rabbit-4.

Located here: http://storymash.com/u/writerwannabe/hipugohe/

Jewel Guardians - Chapter 4 is published.

http://storymash.com/u/djinndarme/tofukife/

DAMN! I don't know how that happened but, I can't get rid of the above comment, which is, in fact the chapter!!!!

The real Robin's Rabbit - 4 is posted - where it should be - http://storymash.com/u/writerwannabe/hipugohe/

Sorry!

Seven down, two to go. Ace and dkk?

Sorry guys, I'm a total knob! I forgot! Will be posted tomorrow.

Ace, I look forward to reading your chapter tomorrow.

Dkk...? I hope you are recovering well and that everything is okay. Do you need someone to step in and help you out with this round?

Anyone out there willing to help Dkk write chapter four of "Soccer Dad" ?

Oh man guys, this is getting embarassing. These last two weeks have been a plague. I bruised a bone in my shoulder last week (that's what the doctor said, I think he's full of crap) and I was in a sling for almost a week, and was told specifically no typing. Then with my son starting school, things got wrapped up in that. And now today I think I'm coming down with the flu. I'm still hoping to have it done, or at least a partial draft up tonight, but please be patient. This is all the worse since at the beginning of this round I was so confident I'd have it done well within the deadline. *hangs head in shame*

Ace, life happens. The best we can do is... well... the best we can do within our own boundaries. No one should ever ask for more than that.

A bruised bone is an incredibly painful thing; I hope your shoulder gets better soon.

If it would make things easier, you are more than welcome to partner with someone on the team and have them finish what you've started.

Yeah, I'll be glad to help you out, Ace!

Hope you find painless peace again, soon...:o)

Awww, thanks for the suggestion JD and thanks for the offer WWB. Naw, I'd like to finish it on my own, just I feel bad stepping over the no-ball line.

FINALLY.

http://storymash.com/u/Ace/sahagusi/

Jerry's Adventure 4. Done. Published. *hits the floor with a meaty thump*

Okay, pending approval from the Grammar Nazi, my final draft is up and should be published tomorrow. Once again, so very sorry for being so slow!

http://storymash.com/u/shadinah/bibolita/

Okay - I'm published and ready to move on - but am I picking up where Cleokatrah left off, or are we still waiting on Dkk?

Dkk hasn't responded. I'm trying to figure out if we can skip her chapter 4 for now and keep the round going. (That would mean you taking chapter 4, Shadinah.)

Thoughts fellow Mashers? Dkk, give us a shout out if you can and let us know you are alright.

As for Cleokatrah - I don't think she ever published her chapter. If she did, the choice is up to the next writer, whether that be Shadinah or Dkk. If she didn't, then there is no real choice but to create a different chapter 4 instead of using hers.

My thoughts - I'd love it if Dkk responds and lets us know what's going on and either returns to the project or formally drops out so we know what's going on (preferably returns to the project!).

However, if we don't hear from Dkk in a few days, then we should move on. The longer the gap between chapter writings, the easier it will be for people to lose interest and the project to die. This is probably one of the strongest projects I've seen in the last year, maybe year and a half, and I'd hate to see it flop. As such, we cannot justify holding up the entire project indefinitely.

Question: To keep things moving an alive, should the rest of us get started on our next chapters? Since it's obvious how the cycle works, the rest of us can move on while we wait to hear. If it takes Dkk a while to catch up, and the person writing after to get a chance at the following chapter, I think that's better than everyone waiting together. Yeah, we might have to play a bit of catch-up down the road, but that's not for certain -- best we keep 'er breathing now and save that worry for later. Thoughts?

I don't mind...

Okay, everyone, go ahead and get started on your next chapters. (I will post an update complete with links a little later when I have more time.) The deadline for Round 4 is Wednesday, September 29th.

Shadinah, go ahead and take on chapter 4 of "Soccer Dad."

Uh, not sure what to say, but this is dkk's husband and she asked me to post this for her so that every doesn't think she forgot or ignored everything. She is in the hospital for awhile. She also asked me to say, with a smile, "don't go freakin' out". She is okay and will be fine. I'm sure she will explain once she is home. Thank you.

Ugh.

First off, because of the positioning of this comment, let me say this is not a crack at dkk. I hope she recovers quickly and fully, and this project should be low on her list unless it helps motivate her to feel/get better.

I stand by my comment from 4 weeks ago - what a subtle dying. The current deadline isn't for another eight days, and I expect it'll be extended as well. What began with a bang has hit whimper status at the halfway mark. Yes, some of the recent chapters are still quality, but I don't see the enthusiasm, the heart, or the care that was initially invested. Life gets in the way. I know. I've a life too.

October Chill suffered the same fate. Even Thou Shalt Not Kill struggled, and there was money involved for those (10) chapters. Perhaps nine chapters is too long? Wrap it in 6 or 7? That means not everyone will contribute to every story, but at the rate of attrition the project is enduring, I won't care by chapter 9 anyway.

If you want to replace me, that's fine. If you want to ignore me, I'm used to that too. I've never been hired to provide pep talks.

Eight days, folks. Plenty of time. Go team, go.

Hmmm. I know what you mean Nash. This really is a big commitment to go the full nine chapters. I know that I've been having an increasing amount of frustration, not because of the stories or whom I'm following, but just because I'm having a difficult time getting my head into writing period (at this time at least). I appreciate that this project helps me push through that a bit, and I'd love to go the full nine chapters, but judging by the amount of activity we're seeing on the forum right now, perhaps everyone is looking to truncate the project? This is what, our fourth add-on chapter? I'm open to suggestions, but I think that perhaps Nash is right, maybe six would be a good wrap up number. If we got to seven, then I think we might as well go all the way (heh) and finish up with the full nine. I'd really like to see everyone sound off on this--it really should be a full group decision. I'm happy either way, but I don't want to see this project die-- if cutting back the chapters means we can complete it, then that's my vote. I'd rather we cut it short than have it fade away.

Two week deadlines between each chapter x nine chapters = a very long, drawn out project. We all knew this going in.

Granted, we've had some extensions - vacations, health issues, etc. Life happens. However, despite hiccups in the past, I do not see how this project is "dying." Nash, wasn't it you who originally suggested two weeks between each chapter? If that is too long, or if that length of time makes you feel like the project is losing momentum, then maybe we should change it to one week.

Would you end a novel early just to make sure it gets done? Would you take out the middle of an essay because you're afraid you're losing momentum? I see it as just another way of giving up. Cutting us short seems like the easy way out.

We are writers. There is nothing easy about that.

There is no reason why this project should be labeled as dying. It is a long, drawn out project. That is all. Momentum is difficult to keep with two weeks between each chapter. But we are still going! With the exception of DKK, the project is still very much alive and it can recover from the loss of one of its writers.

My decision is this - we keep it going. We keep faith in each other and forget about that "lost momentum." We push through our difficulties and learn to be stronger writers. We finish this project. We act like professional writers and don't give up. Or we stop here and now. Why kill something prematurely down the line and not just have done with it right away? Why wait five or six more chapters? What is the point of that? Is it too difficult to go all the way - to finish what we started?

Nash - You want a momentum boost? Comment. Vote. Participate other than just writing your pieces. Push, nudge, encourage. (Without discouraging.) You once wrote that you refuse to give your opinion on a piece without solicitation - This is that solicitation - for everyone participating. One of the foundation rules of this project was for each and every person to comment on each and every chapter. Period. We haven't been diligent with that. Why bother writing something no one is going to read? Nash, you have some of the best talent I've seen on this website. You have written the highest ranking story/chapter in the history of Storymash! Of course we want your input. It is desired, and according to the original rules of the project, required.

We, all of us, need to support one another. Communicate with one another. If this project is to be completed, if we are to succeed as writers, if we are to finish what we started, we need each other and we need to be positive. I vote we go all the way. We have the potential. We are ALL great writers. Let's start acting like it.

Well said, JD. I agree wholeheartedly and I will hold up my end...;o)

JD is driving this bus. I'll go where it goes. If I have to, I'll pitch in for gas.

We stick with the two week deadlines and I'll bitch no further. I'll comment further on individual stories when I can read them - thus far, there are three that IE won't display, and I have ho internet access at home. (Can't download software on the work computer.)

As for critiques, hopefully authors won't find them discouraging. I call 'em like I see 'em.

Thank you, Nash. Let me know which stories you cannot read and I'll email them to you.

You're critiques are most welcome and we all appreciate that you "call 'em like you see 'em."

The suspense was Sunday, the 26th? OK..I know that the excuse, "life got in the way" is getting old - can you say ancient? But...well....I need an extension. I can't say how long but..yeah.

I haven't seen any other recent posts...could I be wrong about the suspense? (I hope).

Are you referring to the deadline for this round? It's this Wednesday. Hope that helps?

Jewel Guardians - Chap 5 is up in draft form.
http://storymash.com/u/alharris/hehituda/

Being slow, but draft form of the next Death Benefit chapter is up -

http://storymash.com/u/Aggeloi/lepalowe/

Now published :)

Chapter 5 of Jerry's Adventure in draft form:

http://storymash.com/u/nashvillebecker/paronafi/

Big Bang - chapter 4 of Soccer Dad is up in draft form. I did not give it 100% and it shows, but wanted to get at least a draft posted before the deadline. Will try to clean it up a bit if time allows.

http://storymash.com/u/shadinah/bimigaso/

I will be revising this, hopefully will have it done by tonight, but no promises. Sorry.

I posted chapter 5 of Robin's Rabbit last night. I did not post that I posted it, but I thought I did.

http://storymash.com/u/djinndarme/hahimuru/

The latest edition of Crockpot is up.

I apologize - "Dinner's Ready?" is still fairly rough.

http://storymash.com/u/JD_Renaissance/giliwavo/

I suggest we all take a few days to comment on the drafts posted and then we all publish no later than Sunday, October 3rd.

I will get to reading and commenting within the next day or so.

Ugh. I meant comment and edit our drafts and then publish by the 3rd. :)

"Dirty Laundry Chapter 5" is up in draft form. It is not properly ready to be read yet, so i don't suggest it until I transfer over the missing pieces, flesh out some bits and actually finish the ending. most likely that will be happening tomorrow, but I can't make promises -- I'm going back on short term disability and the next two days are going to be focused on getting that done.

http://storymash.com/u/Ace/wufupege/

Give it a day before reading please. I have to get my head down now. I have to be up at 5AM tomorrow.

Over and out.

A Modern Horror - 5 is up in draft.

http://storymash.com/u/writerwannabe/rabebiri/

I gotta admit that, for me as a contributor, this is the most daunting of all the story lines. Long chapters, lots of characters, the timelines...

Considering all the other things competing for my time and attention lately, I've done the best I could here. That's not intended as an excuse; rather, it's a plea...lol. Any and all comments that I can get in time to publish on Sunday the 3rd are greatly appreciated...;o)

Dirty Laundry -- Chapter 5 .....published.

http://storymash.com/u/Ace/wufupege/

Yeah, I'm an idiot and forgot the link. *yawn*

A Modern Horror - 5 is published.

http://storymash.com/u/writerwannabe/rabebiri/

This should read: A Modern Horror - 5 by J.D. Renaissance and writerwannabe.

JD..thanks so much for your help and beautifully written inserts.

http://storymash.com/u/JD_Renaissance/giliwavo/

"Dinner's Ready?" is...ready. Please enjoy. :)

Haven't had the time to check, but I believe everyone has published. If not, let me know what you need.

In the mean time, let's go ahead and get going with the next round. Deadline: Wednesday October 20th.

Life has been...challenging... as of late, and so I haven't had as much time or energy to devote to this project as I would have liked. However, I do intend on pushing through the difficulties. Within the next week, I hope to have caught up on my comments and my votes. Thanks for your patience, my fellow mashers. It is very much appreciated. :)

Aggeloi hon, I can't read ANY of your chapters. Is there any chance that you can email them to me? I think you already have my email addy.

Where are we? I haven't seen many comments on the latest round. Is everyone done? What's the deadline for the next round?

Next deadline: Wednesday, October 20th. It's been a bit quiet, but I'm sure it's just a matter of chaos stepping in... and I'll keep hoping that until the deadline passes...

lol..thanks, aggie!

Chaos, unfortunately, is just the tip of the iceberg on my end. Parental surgery, family issues, and the passing of a family pet have kept me pretty busy the last week or so. And it won't end any time soon.

I will still try to do my part and get my chapter in on time. :)

I don't know if this is going to be helpful to anyone but me, but since I've only been able to really track what chapter I'm on (and maybe what chapter Nash is on, because I'm after him), I've started feeling disconnected from the other branches of this project. I also think identifying everyone's assigned chapter helps increase accountability (it's harder to flake if everyone knows what I'm supposed to be doing) and helps us see what everyone's done.

So, to the best of my figuring, this is the current round:

A Modern Horror: Djinn, writing chapter 6
Robin's Rabbit: Alharris, writing chapter 6
Jewel Guardians: Ace, writing chapter 6
Dirty Laundry: Nash, writing chapter 6
Jerry's Adventure: Aggeloi, writing chapter 6
Death Benefit: JD, writing chapter 6
Crockpot: Nobody, unless Dkk reappears
A Winter Fail: Shadinah, writing chapter 5
Soccer Dad: WWB, writing chapter 5

That's the best I've figured it out, anyway. Let me know if I've got something wrong there.

I, for one, am very grateful for this post!! Talk about confused! Not any more...;o) Thanks!

Thank you, Aggeloi, for doing this. It is an incredible help. :D

And next chapter of Jerry's Adventure is up in draft form:

http://storymash.com/u/Aggeloi/godohufe/

I completely forgot that I was going to try to post that one in IE since so many people have a hard time reading my chapters. So I've posted it again... With "IE Version" to indicate which is which :)

http://storymash.com/u/Aggeloi/vatemavu/

And both are now published.

Do you guys need a relief writer for DKK?

Sounds like a great idea, WBS! Thanks for the offer. Let me know what you need.

I hate that I missed all this fun! alharris, you reached out to me once and I was ready. but you never replied again. :-(

Great job all.

Sorry for any miscommunications, Dog. I started posting requests again on a different thread in the forum. Water under the bridge. All good plans are made to be modified. You say the word and I will create a a Wild Card story-thread in Flight Two. Check out the Projects page. I envision a wild card thread to be a seventh story that you initiate by finding your favorite SM chapter within the SM archives. You write the next chapter. I'll also ask the other F2 mashers if they need to take a bye-week that you're available to step up to the plate. The wild card thread you create will welcome any writer to help continue and follow the rounds of the other six stories. We could conduct a little cap and trade to move writing responsibilities around so that we get the other F2 mashers to add to your thread. Confused yet?

I sure the hell am...

Draft of Robin's Rabbit Chap 6 is up. http://storymash.com/u/alharris/kisogema/

Two of eight are posted. Two day warning for the rest - Wednesday is the deadline! Please let us know if you need an extra day, but I have faith in you all - YOU CAN DO IT!!! :)

*sigh*

I'm starting to dread deadlines on this site. Bad things happen to me every time they come near. Be warned, this one is a doozy. I can't believe it myself.

I've got a stalker.

Yep, that's right. A stalker. Fortunately (somewhat) an online one, but he's making life a bit difficult right now, and I'm trying to get his **** sorted. It's been brilliant though -- as stressful as it's been, he's been the perfect stalker in the sense that he's so bloody stupid. I'm behind several days though guys... this has been going on for about a week now and my head just hasn't been into writing. I'll keep you guys abreast of the situation. It promises to be memorable. Might make a good story when it's done.

I hope things get better for you, Ace. You're in my thoughts and prayers.

We might have to allow for an extension on this round - which is okay. We'll see how tomorrow goes and how many are able to post by the end of the day and go from there.

Let me know what you need, fellow Mashers.

Thanks JD. This morning I found that I had support from an amazing source -- a cricket journalist/editor that I adore on a major cricket news site. My jaw dropped when i got the email from him this morning. That alone may have made the whole experience worth dealing with. :)

Posted Soccer Dad - 5 in draft. I was going to just publish, but since I put such a humongous twist into the storyline, I figured I better leave it in draft in case there's a really big back lash...lol.

http://storymash.com/u/writerwannabe/herudisi/

Yeah. Like there was a chance I'd miss a deadline after all my bitching. Dirty Laundry 6 is up.

Aggeloi gave me some great advice for Soccer Dad, Chapter 5. If I accept her advice (and I most certainly will), I'm gonna miss the deadline by at least a day.

I know - I should have started and posted the draft earlier...but...;o)

A draft of "A Modern Horror" is up.

http://storymash.com/u/djinndarme/veheduko/

Whew! I made it by the deadline!

Four officially posted, one revising and hopefully posted today, leaving three - and all three with very good reasons to be slow this time. Ace, how are things with that stalker? JD, Shadinah, you need a bit more time? What does everyone think of Friday or Saturday for an extended deadline?

Saturday works for me. My apologies to everyone for being late.

Well, it's a long story, but I'll give you the short version. It was incredibly random. Some guy targeted me on a cricket site, abusing me because HE THOUGHT I WAS BRITISH. I mean, wtf. And once he started, he wouldn't let up. He was trying to get me to add him on FB, making up fake profiles to try and get me to accept him. He wants at my personal info BAD. After he tried to pass himself off as an international cricket player, I had to point him out on the cricket site to warn other people, because I'd seen he was adding "fans" fast. When he saw that, he knew I was onto his game, and he sent me a threatening email -- threatening both me and my family. Fortunately some big admin/writers on the cricket site have my back and are working to get this guy banned not only on the site but off Facebook as well. It's hard to really take him seriously, as he's only slightly smarter than salt-- but I'm off of work for health reasons right now (I was diagnosed bipolar earlier this year, sorting out meds has not gone well) and it's still managed to get under my skin in a way that I'm not handling well. I have to be honest, I'm really close to bailing on the project because I can't focus on anything, let alone writing at the moment. I would hate for it to come to that, but I'm not really pulling my own weight right now and I know that's frustrating for everyone, including myself.

Thanks for sharing, Ace. I'm so sorry you're having to go through all that - what a royal pain! And to have to deal with that on top of dealing with medical issues... I'm glad there's some saving grace in the guy's intellect (or lack thereof).

You're a great writer, and if you can hang in there, we'd love for you to stick with it. If you need to sit the next couple rounds out, then jump back in, I understand - I can't speak for anyone else, but I'm sure they'd understand, too. Or if you decide you need to drop out entirely, I know that's how life goes. Know that our best thoughts and prayers are with you. :)

Sorry, that was a response to Aggeloi.

Sooooo... I really did not anticipate this project stretching into fall. I am so sorry to do this, but I am coaching/coordinating the kids' quiz teams, and dealing with all the other fun school stuff/extra activities. Plus, looking ahead to a hectic holiday season, something's gotta give, and sadly, this is it. I really enjoyed being part of this project, and wish the rest of you the best of luck in finishing.

Good luck, Shad! It has been great working with you and reading your stories. My son was in Quiz Bowl and absolutely loved it. My hat's off to you and your committment to youth.

Hey everyone. After some soul-searching, I decided that I am going to have to drop out of this project. I loved participating and I'm really disappointed to have to give it up, but I just can't meet the deadlines and in my current headspace the guilt and stress of that is getting contorted way out of proportion. It's been building to this point for a while now. I'm really really sorry everyone.

Good working with you as well, Ace. JD, the project is going great. We can still finish up strong. WBScott stated he's ready to step in. Let's make it official and slide him into DKK's, Shad's or Ace's rotation. Dog also stated that he's interested. We can even put out a call to anyone else who is ready to add their talents to what has become a great Masher's Round. After writing the 6th chapter I can see and feel the light at the end of the tunnel. When we are done I strongly support approaching Ethan about publishing the first StoryMash Anthology, showcasing the strengths of collaborative writing and giving credit to all the fine writers who have participated. Let's finish this and take it to the next level.

Ace - sorry to see you go, but I completely understand. Hope things get better for you soon!

Al - I second your statements. Inviting others in to help finish it off will be great. And I agree that these storylines are worth seeking publishing! I'm so impressed by how well this project has gone, and the stories are growing more fascinating with each addition :)

JD, how are things with you? Are you sticking it out with us?

For everyone else, this round officially ends today, so the next round starts tomorrow:

A Modern Horror: Alharris, writing chapter 7
Robin's Rabbit: Empty (on chapter 7)
Jewel Guardians: Nash, writing chapter 7
Dirty Laundry: Aggeloi, writing chapter 7
Jerry's Adventure: JD, writing chapter 7
Death Benefit: Empty (on chapter 6 or 7)
Crockpot: Empty (On chapter 6)
A Winter Fail: WWB, writing chapter 6
Soccer Dad: Djinn, writing chapter 6

Has two weeks been generally acceptable for everyone? If so, the next deadline is Sunday, November 7th. Happy mashing!

Sorry, guys. This is the first time I've been able to get online for a few days. First off, sorry to see you go, Shadinah and Ace. Thank you both so much for all your hard, amazing work on this project. I hope things get easier/better for you guys.

As for me, things have escalated in my neck of the woods and I've had quite a bit to deal with, especially the last few days. That said, yes, I'm still in and I'll still act as project leader as long as you guys are willing.

Aggie, thanks for posting the last few lists for us. It is a major help during these trying times. Thank you everyone who posted your chapters. I haven't had much of a chance to read them but what I have seen is impressive and inspiring.

As I am the only one who hasn't written/published my chapter this last round - I'll pull double duty and work on both Death Benefit and Jerry's Adventure and have both finished by Nov. 7th. This shouldn't be much of a problem as I'll be going home in a couple of days, hopefully for good. (Long story very short, mom had surgery and needed me to help with taking care of the family while she recovered.) That leaves Robin's Rabbit and Crockpot, for WBS and Dog, if they agree. Once I'm all caught up, we could use another volunteer to help with future rounds and to finish these stories off.

Thank you everyone for your help and patience. Things are starting to look up and I can't wait to see how all these stories turn out!

Welcome back!

I thought I had posted/published the revised Soccer Dad - 5 on Friday. Oooops! Here it is: Soccer Dad - It Wasn't Michael!

http://storymash.com/u/writerwannabe/herudisi/

Damned shame that we are losing such great writer's from this mash project; but, I'm sure we'll get worthy replacements...;o).

I wish you -Ace, shadinah and dkk a quick recovery from those things that are currently upsetting your writing lives.

DJ...look forward to your chapter. I hope you hadn't already started using my draft as springboard, but I think this version gives you a much better starting point...;o) Oh...and thanks, again, Aggie for the suggestions!!

Great and Glorious Leaders of the Summer Mash..;o)

Should I not be writing chapter 5 of "Winter Fail"? Seems dkk dropped out before she could follow JD with a chapter 5 and shadinah dropped out before she could follow in dkk's with a chapter 5; and, since I'm not dropping out and normally follow shadinah, except that she didn't post; I should be following dkk, except she didn't post so now, I should be following JD who did post, a most excellent chapter four and therefore, whereas and to wit I am now on chapter five...right? LOL

One more thing, please...JD...please send me an email and clarify, in your opinion what "the truth" might be..;o)

Thank you for that clarification/correction, WWB! With the changes, it has been a little hard to track what chapter is where, but you are certainly correct - Chapter 5 on Winter Fail has not yet been written, and so that is the chapter you are on.

So where might DD11 and myself fit in?

One of you can fill my shoes. I'm attempting NaNo again this year; that makes me the latest domino to get knocked down and out. Thanks, all, for helping me get unblocked. See you around.

Sorry to see you go, but wish you the best with NaNo! You added a lot of sheer awesomeness to these stories.

WB - According to the above list (and Nash's statement), Robin's Rabbit, Jewel Guardians, and Crockpot are all without writers right now. (The list states that Death Benefit is empty, but JD plans on writing the next chapter on that one as well as Jerry's Adventure.) So basically - you and DD have your pick of the litter. Where do you want to fit in?

Im ready and willing to contribute to whatever. Just let me know what to do. Either here or email works fine. dogdeity11@hotmail.com.

cheers!

Thanks for being willing to jump in! Robin's Rabbit, Jewel Guardians, and Crockpot all need a writer this round. Where would you like to start?

Great to see the two of you on this mash!!! Welcome aboard, WBS and Eleven...;o)

I'll begin with Jewel Guardians. Only because it looks like Robins Rabbit has a chapter still in draft form and I couldn't track down Crockpot. (are all these story lines linked someplace? Looks like there is something similar on the projects page but not the chapters I was looking for?)
Also, do I have a set of rules or a deadline to follow?

Robin's Rabbit is published.

Hi, Dog, and welcome! Just so you know, the formal links are much earlier in this thread on the message board. Another option is to click on any name of the people who are in it, and you're likely to find at least one of the chapters you're looking for!

The goal is simply to carry the tone of the story through various chapters written by different authors. If I recall, the last writer can leave it open for the original author to finish off the story, but I don't think that part wound up discussed much. You'll see that many stories seem much closer to completion than others, but feel free to just keep the story moving forwards until we declare that it's time to start wrapping things up :)

The stories that are on chapter 7, I believe, should at least be approaching a climax by now.

Oh, also...How many chapters are each story to be? I need to know so I don't prematurely end something, or stretch it out too far.

found deadline: Sunday, November 7th.

Hey, Eleven...welcome, welcome to the mash!! Each storyline is 9 chapters. I am definitely looking forward to your chapters...;o)

Thanks WWB. Excited to be a part of it.
I should have something up for Jewel Guardians by weeks end.

Well, I guess that leaves crockpot for me.

or Robins Rabbit.

WBS...welcome to you, too! Really glad to see you on this mash. Doesn't matter, really, which you take now, you'll get the other later...lol

Dirty Laundry (chapter 7) is up in draft form.

http://storymash.com/u/Aggeloi/pefebise/

Jewel Guardians-6 draft is open for suggestions.

Will Zane find Layla?
Will Goldrang eat an elf?
Will General Trine declare a state of emergency in the Fairy kingdom?
For the answers to all those, and what's up with alharris's BATS...just follow the link below!

http://storymash.com/u/dogdeity11/lurupofi/

For all my SM homeis, Happy Halloween Bitches.
Hope all your Ghosts, Goblins and Ghouls turn out to be totally real...just for one night.
***
Then I hope you write a chapter about it.
XoXo- eleven

I added a chapter to Crockpot.
It is in draft form. If there's no comments tomorrow, I'll do my fine check and publish.

alharris...since WBScott worked crockpot, do we still need someone to fill in on Robins Rabbit? I'll take it if it is still open. Let me know...

JD, Can Dog and WBS just simply take over for a particular Masher? Wouldn't that make things easier as far as knowing what chapters the cavalry can focus on? Both seem totally committed to just jumping in with both feet.

Al, that works for me. Dog, if you're willing to fill in for two people (Two stories each round), by all means. Let me know. Not sure if I have this right - Dog is replacing Nash and WBS is replacing Shadinah? Which means we still need replacements for Ace and for DKK. (Anyone who will be replacing Dkk will have to wait until I get my chapter of Death Benefit up - which should be in the next couple of days.)

(Aggie, Al, anyone, correct me if I'm wrong on this.)

So...both Dog and WBS should each pick two mashers to fill in for (Ace, Shad, DKK, or Nash) until we get a couple more. Right? I know both have the writing jones going write now (pun intended) to easily pull double doody. Cheesie has stated he's interested in helping (but please hold his feet to the fire to keep him in Flight Two as well, we enjoy his work and don't want to lose him entirely to Flight One) There is additional talent out there, new and old. Hopefully someone else will step up to the plate to help.

I could never replace Nash! But I will try.
And I should probably not bite off more than I can chew so I will commit to just the one chapter per round.
However if we continue to fall short each round I will fill in where needed. (just please tell me what storyline and I will do it. that includes flight 2 as well. I do have some free time currently)
Now, how do I find out what Nash's chapters are??

True dat. I'm a hellofalot better looking than Dog could ever aspire to be. Clean living and all.

Check your email in the next hour, 11.

yea, Ive been known to knock over a garbage can or two in my day, and then proceed to roll around in the filth of my beloved society.
But even covered in apple cores and cartoon fish bones, this dog god still looks better than any becker ever could. bank that!
um, I'll give you the clean living bit though!

Published Crockpot part 6:
http://storymash.com/u/WBScott/sosomopi/

I'll fill in where needed just let me know what chapter you want me writing next.

ok, Im just going to go ahead and start working on the next chapter for Robins Rabbit. Unless I see any objects, I will have something up for the deadline. It looks like a fun storyline!

Dog, I'm tempted to have you hold off for now on Robin's Rabbit. Since you are taking over for Nash, you'll be writing that story next round anyway. However, if you feel like you want to add two chapters to it in a row, or if the group decides to keep it at only 8 chapters instead of nine, then go ahead and go for it.

As for Death Benefit and Jerry's Adventure, I should have my drafts up in the next couple of days. (Finally home for good now and able to focus on writing.)

okay, that makes sense. I'll wait.

Hello all,

I was on vacation for a week or so and got absolutely no writing done.

I am back on track now(I think.)and will do my best to make the Nov. 7 deadline.

I've put up my draft of the next chapter of "Death Benefit" titled "Crash"

I cut it short not knowing whether where I left it was the ideal stopping place or not. I do have more, or rather, ideas for more. So if I cut it too short, let me know and I'll go back and make changes. Thanks!

Sigh! I'm late...again. My excuse? A week long business trip. Okay...lame, but it's all I got. Two days..at least. ;o(

That's okay, WWB. The weekends are usually slow here anyway so I'll give you three days, just in case. The new deadline is Wednesday the 10th. If anyone needs a little longer, let me know.

And no, it is not a "lame excuse." Very legitimate and understandable.

Vielen dank, Chefin! ;o)

"Dirty Laundry - Chapter 7" is published.

Firefox version: http://storymash.com/u/Aggeloi/pefebise/

IE version: http://storymash.com/u/Aggeloi/pebokina/

Welcome to the deadline day of one of the more chaotic projects we've had to date! :)

According to my hastily scribbled records, here is the list of those yet to post:

Djinn - Soccer Dad chapter 6
WWB - Winter Fail chapter 5
JD - Jerry's Adventure chapter 7 (if you still planned on getting two chapters this round)
Alharris - Modern Horror chapter 7

Please let us know how things are going!

To recap, with the new additions, this is what the lineup looked like for this last round:

A Modern Horror: Alharris, writing chapter 7
Robin's Rabbit: Empty (on chapter 7)
Jewel Guardians: Dogdeity11, writing chapter 6
Dirty Laundry: Aggeloi, writing chapter 7
Jerry's Adventure: JD, writing chapter 7
Death Benefit: JD, writing chapter 6
Crockpot: WBScott, writing chapter 6
A Winter Fail: WWB, writing chapter 5
Soccer Dad: Djinn, writing chapter 6

Tomorrow I can post the new chapters for round 7, if you all would like.

Thanks Aggie. I'm going to post Jerry's Adventure in a few minutes and will also be editing and publishing Death Benefit's latest chapter.

Okay, posted "Jerry's Adventure chapter seven - Fantasy or Reality"
http://storymash.com/u/JD_Renaissance/gosapiku/

And published "Crash"
http://storymash.com/u/JD_Renaissance/ruronulo/

I'll keep Jerry's Adventure up for the rest of the day and will publish this evening sometime, just in case anyone wants to leave feedback for changes, etc. Thanks!

Soccer Dad Chapter 6 is up in draft form.

http://storymash.com/u/djinndarme/rovokifo/

Thanks, JD and DJ! :)

Al, WWB, any word?

For everyone else, here is the new lineup:

A Modern Horror: Empty (on chapter 7 or 8)
Robin's Rabbit: Dogdeity11, writing chapter 7
Jewel Guardians: Aggeloi, writing chapter 7
Dirty Laundry: JD, writing chapter 8
Jerry's Adventure: Empty (on chapter 8)
Death Benefit: WBScott, writing chapter 7
Crockpot: WWB, writing chapter 7
A Winter Fail: Djinn, writing chapter 5 or 6
Soccer Dad: Alharris, writing chapter 7

Let me know if I got that straight :)

Looks about right to me. Djinn, hold off until we hear from WWB regarding A Winter Fail. WWB, Al, let us know if you need some more time.

Need more time for Modern Horror Chap 7. It has reached Novella proportions. I am still absorbing the multiple characters and possibile outcomes.

How much time do you think you'll need? Need help with notes? I have some from when I helped WWB, but they aren't complete.

Fellow Mashers, go ahead and get started on your chapters for now. (With the exception of Djinn, for the time being.) Since there isn't anyone designated for following Alharris' chapter this round, the delay on "A Modern Horror" won't throw a monkey into the wrench. It might just mean having one less chapter - 9 instead of 10, which is the way some of these stories are going anyway with all the author changes.

Works for me. I need to take a breather...

For now, let's set the tentative deadline for this current round for November 24th. Since the deadline is around the Thanksgiving holiday, a little flexibility might be in order.

As always, Mashers, let me know if this works, doesn't work, or if you need anything. =D

I need a big mug of hot chocolate with a shot of mint.

Oooh that sounds yummy! Okay, here you go:

A BIG MUG OF HOT CHOCOLATE WITH A SHOT OF MINT

If you need anything else, let me know.

I never thought this day would come, but I feel obligated to drop out of the project. Obligated because I'm over a week late on the last chapter, the next round is due next week and I've a guilty conscience about holding everyone else up.

It's not a question of time, it's a lack of balance. I'm out of balance...too much going on and my brain seems to have shut down for anything but the absolute necessities. All of which is exacerbated by my aforementioned "guilty conscience". In short...I can't get my head around the story lines to even get a decent paragraph written.

I hope there's no hard feelings. I don't know how long this fugue will last, but I also hope that I'll be welcome to return whenever that time comes.

Until then...I wish you all great writing!!

Of course no hard feelings, my friend. Life happens. Put aside your guilt, there's no reason for it. You have done an amazing job helping with this project and you should be proud of all that you've been able to accomplish. Do not feel bad about having to focus on the "real world" for a while. We all get to that stage. You take care of what you need to take care of. Who knows, when it comes time to tying up loose ends for "Jerry's Adventure," perhaps you might jump back in for that final chapter, finishing off the story you started. And if you ever have the need to stretch your writing legs, if you need a break from life and need to delve into the world of make-believe, if you are ever interested, you are more than welcome to jump in and perhaps fill in some of the missing chapters. And if not, don't sweat it.

I hope life settles down for you a bit, WWB, and you find the right balance. =D

WWB - you'll be missed. But I completely understand, and it has been a long-reaching project. Thanks for everything you've contributed thus far, and I look forward to mashing with you again in the future!

Okay, that sounded wrong. Just a little bit.

LOL...thanks, Aggie!

Djinn, go ahead and start in on chapter 5 of "A Winter Fail." Let me know if you need anything - notes, more time, a hug, etc.

A Modern Horror - Chapter 7 draft is up. http://storymash.com/u/alharris/vakunowa/

We are over 20k words! Woo Hoo!

Thanks for your patience.

Jewel Guardians chapter 7 is up as a draft.

http://storymash.com/u/Aggeloi/nevoheha/

And for once in my life, I actually remembered to post it in IE, so it should be readable. I hope.

Alright, Mashers... I have a proposition.

With the busy holiday season upon us, how would you all feel about putting this project on the back burner until January and finishing the last few rounds then? I know I'm going to be swamped in the next few weeks and I would hate to hold up the project because I just don't have time to get to my chapter. I would also hate for anyone to feel guilty because they can't find the time to do theirs either. So, what do you think? Should we take a break and return to this after the first of the year? Perhaps then some of those who were obligated to drop out could return.

Let me know what you all decide. Thanks!

I'm torn. Part of me completely understands and acknowledges that it would be far easier to finish this project after the holidays are over. But part of me knows the fates of other projects around here and worries that the back burner will become a permanent home.

I'm in either way. The question is, in January, will everyone else still be in?

I am admittedly behind, yet only have two stories to go. I will continue working on my last two mashes. I am next up with Soccer Dad. Since DJ is still writing, I shall try my best to keep following the order. Since we have eager and talented writers (Dog, WBScott, Shadowedpen et al) I suggest assigning them more stories to help fill in the gaps. We should welcome WWB and anyone else back as soon as their schedule allows. I also suggest asking SM to put our work up on a Project Page. It will help readers grasp the admirable work we have done so far and assist us in seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. I am still interested in 9 complete chapters for each story, just as we stated in the beginning. Dog and others can help us attain that goal. Happy Holidays!

Personally, I would like to have the project put on the back burner until after the first of the year. I'm pretty sure I would be in position to get back into it by then...;o)

Okay - I have no doubt we'll all be able to complete the project after the holidays. As of right now, the risk of the project being permanently canceled is stronger without the break due to outside obligations. I think it stands a greater chance of survival and thriving if everyone took some time to focus on their lives and then delve back in in January.

That said - WWB, I hope you do rejoin us.
Al - I have already sent the information to the SM team to have a projects page made. Waiting on them now.

Please don't write a chapter you haven't been assigned yet in order to keep the project alive. This goes to everyone including those who have jumped in to help. I'd like to keep some semblance of the original order to the rounds for ease of planning, etc. If anyone is still interested in helping, let me know via email jessicawillums@msn.com and I will give you the person you will be replacing and the order/chapters you'll be working on.

I'm not certain whether all the stories will be able to have the nine chapters. Some will have eight and I think one might have seven. I'll do my best to figure out if we can have nine all the way around, but I'm not going to sweat it and throw a monkey in the wrench to obtain it. The project has adapted and evolved accordingly, as has everyone still participating. Let us all plan on picking thing up where we left off on January 3, 2011.

Well, I have a draft up:
http://storymash.com/u/WBScott/muhedugo/

In light of the break, I'm wondering if I should leave it in draft forever or publish it?

Hey everyone. I just wanted to check in really quickly.

I've missed you all, and I'm hoping to check out how the stories are coming along later when I have a bit more time. Things have been really difficult at my end, so I know that dropping the project was the right thing to do, but I still regret it and wish I would have been able to stick things out.

Hope everyone has a great holiday. Miss you.

Welcome to 2011!

First and foremost, I want a sound off of who's in. To put it simply, we have nine positions for writers in the project. First priority goes to original members of the project. You have two weeks to put up a post on this thread stating that you are still interested in the project. If you are not an original member but want to be involved, feel free to declare that now, and you will be given a place (I believe we had enough permanent drop-outs to have at least three or four new writers in the project).

So - you in?

Count me in, Aggie.

Thanks, Aggie!

Unfortunately, I will not be continuing with the Masher's round and will be taking a big step back in general from SM. I'll still be around and will read and post on occasion, but for the time being other priorities have come up and I must focus on them for a while.

Thanks and great job to everyone who has already contributed. Good luck to those who will continue on in the future. I look forward to reading and commenting as the stories are completed, chapter by chapter.

Thank you Aggeloi for taking over leadership responsibilities. I know the project is in good hands with you. =D

I'm afraid that I must follow JD for the same reasons. I'd hoped to be able to back into the project with the holiday hiatus, but it's not happening.

Like JD, as well, I look forward to reading and commenting as I can.

Well, with JD and WWB out of the picture I guess you are going to need me to help carry a torch for a little while.

I published my addition to death benefit:
http://storymash.com/u/WBScott/muhedugo/

Enjoy.

So... two weeks later and we only have three people in on the project. Three people... nine storylines.

The question is, do we try to continue anyway? Do we try to round up more writers? Or do we let this project die a sad little death?

Allow me to make a proposition: Flight Two is having the same problem with only two writers and six stories that almost finished. If we combine and finish one story that may just generate enough interest to finish this flight...hopefully.

If Aggeloi and Alharris are willing we can finish up flight two as such:
Breathing Paradise: WBScott > Aggeloi
Turner Street: alharris > Shadowpen
Dead Resolutions: Aggeloi > alharris > WBScott
Unwanted Gift: Shadowpen > alharris > Aggeloi > (I'll double for the last chapter unless someone wants to jump in)
Android Ballet: alharris > Aggeloi > Shadowpen
Being a Farmer is too Safe: Aggeloi > Shadowpen > alharris

If Aggeloi and alharris agree, we'll move this conversation to the Flight Two forum.

Honestly, I know the first flight stories better. But I love your organizational skills, WBScott. I can be flexible. I am also committed to follow Aggie's lead. You and Aggie would make a great collaborative CEO to clean this all up. All 15 stories are nearly finished. I am convinced that there are other new writers willing to fill in. How about DrB? The good doctor's ready to fly.

That is if you assume the flight two participants have bailed out. I guess I've been afraid to look and find I had ticked everyone off by not holding my end of the bargain. I would like to return to the mix, picking up where I left off....now let me check where that was.

"I want to fly away" Kravitz

I'm willing to take a stab at it. Since flight two is your pride and joy, WBS, I'll let you take the lead for this part. Perhaps after getting those stories finished up, we can get flight one's stories wrapped up as well?

Actually, alharris was the coordinator of Flight two...

Stop the modesty BS. You know as well as I do that my contribution was limited to throwing it out there and seeing who would pick up the ball and run. You scored the initial touchdown with your matrix story-order and remain as the No 1 cheerleader and motivator. I will gladly continue the communication with SM in order to update the Projects page as stories are completed. But the reins of this project are already in your good hands. Now lead us to the promised land. And who is DrBender and can he jump in?