A Week & A Day

Leaving MN/WI
How does a week go by so quickly?! It is hard to believe that just a week and a day ago, I was in the air returning from my MN/WI trip to interview John Plaster. The trip was just...unforgettable. In every way that a trip can be unforgettable: ease of flight/travel, kind people everywhere you go, delicious food, and of course two of the kindest hosts/tour guides to show you around.

I'm still on quite a natural high from the trip, and have been overjoyed when people ask me to tell them about it. It's probably impossible for me to hide my enthusiasm over such a successful filmmaking adventure. And I don't just mean the travel or the experience, I mean that the interview and the subsequent scanning of images were incredibly impressive. John has written a book about the SOG history, and has an amazing library of images that he so kindly shared with me. If you're interested in war history, go pick up a copy SOG: A Photo History of the Secret Wars. You won't regret it, and I'll thank you for supporting someone who's been so kind to me.

COLD, COLD, COLD
During my first few days up north, I kept thinking, "This weather isn't that bad, actually. I psyched myself up for it, and I haven't even needed a hat!" But, of course, I spoke too soon. Friday afternoon and Saturday morning were the most frigid temperatures I have ever experienced in my entire life!

I woke up that Saturday morning to -16F, with a wind chill that made it feel like -36F. YIKES! By the time I got to the airport around 1pm, it had warmed up to a cool zero degrees. While John and Gail have a lovely haven to call home in the MN/WI area, I do believe I headed South just in time. How lucky I was to have such great weather during my trip, though. John and his wife have convinced me to return after spring so that I can see even more of the beauty there. I do hope to make that happen.

Back in Raleigh, The Debrief
The Sunday following my departure was quite exciting, too. I got to catch up with my improv community over practice, and that evening filled Surry in on details of the trip. We talked about our next steps, and created a few action items for ourselves. It was incredibly exciting to talk about the coming months of work, and recognize that we had reached a significant milestone. We have concluded the interview process, now totaling 15 interviews!

Monday: Footage
On Monday, Surry did some searching and found some 8mm of archived footage from his time in Vietnam (as well as an 8mm film projector). That same day, I found a way to *finally* scan in the 35mm slides he shared with me so many months ago. While I haven't proven that this method of scanning the 35mm slides will work, I at least have a positive lead and that feels really great. What an exciting day!

Tuesday: Career Coach
Tuesday was equally thrilling, as I checked in with my career coach and told her about all of the exciting things happening at work and on my film. She's been instrumental in helping me stay balanced, focused and energized. The phone call with her was enough of a reason to be totally thrilled with the entire day.

She's giving me the tools I need to work more efficiently, something I really appreciate because I am trying to accomplish too much in too little time. (At least that is how it feels because I'm anxious to finish the film to share it, but I work full time as well) So, the more efficient I become, the more I can do, right? (OK, to a certain extent. You don't want to become too focused on efficient behavior because then you just work too much and have no time for important conversations and fun.)

One of the lessons she's helping me understand is how to more effectively deal with paper work. I've always been terrible about paper work. Mail piles up, and I can never find what I need because books are always stacked too high and falling over everywhere. Tax season makes me nauseous because I have to collect all of my paperwork I should have been organizing for a year. It's embarrasing to admit, so I'm dubmfounded as to why I'm writing about it openly. It's such an incredibly annoying habit of mine. But no more! Just like taking one's coat off and hanging it in the coat closet immediately, I am learning to touch paper only once and be done with it. Don't even let that task get on your to do list--just deal with it right then and there.

It's the same with Surry, I have noticed. When we chatted on Sunday about calling a few folks he knew, he immediately went to get the phone. Immediate action! Today, when we talked about looking for more prints and 35mm slides, he immediately went to go pick them up for me. Immediate action! It helps you become more efficient, and everyone loves to work with a person that can react so quickly. It's delightful, and I think I'm getting better at it.

Triangle Tweetup
Thursday was the Triangle Tweetup, where I met lots of my fellow Twitter folks (also known as Tweeps) in person. It was a packed house, with an estimated 100+ people there. There were presentations on what some of those in the Triangle Twitter community are working on, and I'm absolutely fascinated. So many great entrepreneurial projects are thriving here, even in a down economy. The Triangle Twitter community is absolutely amazing--so energetic, enthusiastic, intelligent and supportive--and I'm so lucky to keep meeting these impressive folks.

For the Twitter/social media doubters, I just wish you could have experienced it. The entire evening was like being surrounded by family, where everyone was curious about what you do and wants to help. I could harldy take one step without someone else introducing themselves! It was wonderful!

This part of the filmmaking process has often felt solitary because it requires a lot of reading, writing and research. It was rewarding to learn that people in the Triangle have been enjoying my writing about the filmmaking process, and are exciting to see the finished product. I feel like I've learned a lot from them. There was a lot of love in the room, for sure.

Here's a picture taking by Jeff Cohen, who is also on Twitter (@dgtlpapercuts, http://twitter.com/dgtlpapercuts). Edge Office was so packed! While I don't know the folks at Edge Office, I do most certainly appreciate their support by providing a place for us to gather--especially such a stylish place as theirs.

Meeting with Matthew
On Saturday, I met with one of my editors, Matthew. We had a long conversation about the film, creating the story, the filmmaking process, and what to expect in these next months. It was really great to sit with someone and tell the story: what do I want the audience to take away at the end of it? How do I want them to feel? It was unexpected, but not surprising, that I felt a rush of emotion wash over me as I talked about the Montagnards and how I want each person to feel a sense of honor and pride when they leave.

Matthew allowed me to explore this through comparison to other films, and I immediately thought of Braveheart. A story about a man who loves a woman he looses, but he stays incredibly strong in the face of adversity, and he leads his people to stand and fight for what's right. Although that film is quite long, you leave it feeling stronger and prouder. You feel the honor he felt in fighting for freedom.

Each time Matthew and I sit down to talk, I feel a sense of relief. He's been editing for about 10 years now, he said, and so he knows the process (both technically and emotionally) and gave me some serious insight and advice. I hold his words in such high regard, as he seems like a kindred spirit--someone willing to work on something because of the potential in the project. He helped me remember that I'm now entering uncharted territory again, and that it's OK to take small steps in order to learn how to walk again. We spent about 2.5 hours talking, and at the end of it I felt like a great weight had lifted. It was more therapeutic than he probably knows!

More Archived Footage
Today, Surry and I met to talk some more about where we are in the project, and where we need to go next. I filled him in on the things I had been doing all week, and he did the same. It's delighftul to have a partner in crime, someone there to help you work in the right direction. I feel like we make a pretty damn fine team, if ya don't mind me sayin' so!

Here's a picture of all the archived footage he has shared with me (both 35mm slides, printed images and 8mm films). Quite a collection!

I am overwhelmingly inundated with exactly the visuals I need--and from so many sources: Mike, Charlie, John, Surry and his contacts. Ask and you shall receive! There are still avenues to pursue for more archived visuals, and Surry and I are working on those diligently. I would much rather have too many images now, than get three or more months down the road and have to start the hunting process all over again. 'Tis better, in my opinion, to have too much good stuff from which to choose than not enough. The last thing anyone wants to watch is talking heads (improv taught me that).

The Website
We also talked about the website today. I've noticed that interest is growing in our project, and I have spent a fair amount of time explaining it to various folks in face to face conversations. That leads me to question how many others want to know more of this overview? And how many others are scanning the blog to hunt for information I should be putting on display?

The website, to me, was going to be a part of the post-production process--something to be completed when the film is finished so that the visuals are consistent with the branding of the movie. I'm quite a branding geek, and love to have all visuals consistent (DVD lables, cases, posters, website, and so on).

However, I now recognize the need for a website to pick up where this blog leaves off, something that can help introduce people to the movie even before it is completed. And now that I sit down to think on this, it seems like a natural step in Hollywood to build excitement about a film that has not yet been finished. So, it seems, we will have that project to work on while simultaneously writing the script (a blueprint for all volunteers to help build the same movie). The website may not look like the final brand, but I think that's alright. Right now, if we focus on creating the content and navigational architecture, that will make the work at the end of the project run so smoothly.

There is still much work to be done. All of it is exciting--never a dull moment!

This week has been one of the most amazing by far, though. I even went running on Saturday--for the first time in months because I was so sick with bronchitis. It feels amazing to be healthy and hustling towards our goal of completing the film in the coming months. I finally feel like the old Camden again. Ohhhh, and for that, I am so thankful!

In short, I feel like I am soaring--not because of what I have done, but because of the talent, passion, intelligence and dedication of those that surround me. Building a power team like this helps one be a true mover and a shaker, and I am starting to really understand that now. I always knew it, but had not really experienced it until now. I'm surrounded by greatness.

The Interview with John Plaster

Friday was the big day. I woke up too early. It's hard to sleep the night before an interview, I have found. I get so worked up about it, that I can hardly rest. Remember what it was like to wait for Santa to come? How can you sleep when you know what excitement will come in the morning!?

Timeliness
Because I was using my cell phone as a watch, I almost showed up for the interview an hour early. Thankfully I remembered that my phone was still on EST, but managed to still show up 10 minutes too early. I was used to leaving 20 minutes early to get anywhere, and forgot how conveniently close the Inn was to our film location.

It was, again, an important lesson. When a Special Forces guy tells you a meeting time, they keep their word. Ironically enough, I had been watching the Military Channel the previous day while working. A show about training for the Marines was on, and one of the exercises was about detonating explosives at a specific time. They were four minutes late. And got into some serious trouble because they didn't follow directions. Mistakes like that lead to casualties in the field. It's important to know you can rely on that soldier to do what is asked of him (or her), like detonating or showing up on time.

So, needless to say, I felt pretty terrible about showing up 10 minutes early. And since the filming location was a quiet little area, I couldn't very well sit in the car and look like a stalker waiting for those 10 minutes to pass. By the time I got out of the car, the door opened and they were there to greet me. And did so with a smile, I might add.

Setting Up
About half an hour later, we were set up for the interview. Actually, I could have been a full hour. I am very meticulous in framing the shot now, and have no misgivings about making the world stop until I have it set up the way I want it to look. It's taken me a while to get there, but I finally make no excuses for taking my time to do it as great as I possibly can. Hopefully that will pay off in the end.

Finally, we sat and turned on the camera. John began to answer my first question, and as I listened with the headphones on I realized that I missed a connection. The wireless mic wasn't being picked up by the receiver. No, wait, the receiver was picking it up because I had a green light. Aha, I had missed a very important cable--the one that connects the wireless mic receiver to the camera itself. We paused to look for it.

It was nowhere to be found.

I looked inside every piece of luggage. Inside every pocket, every corner, every place I had touched since I walked into the room. It was nowhere. Nowhere!

I flashed back to the moments at RDU, fumbling to shift the weight of my luggage around so that I could check my bags. Had it fallen out then? I always look over my shoulder as I walk away to make sure nothing fell. Nope, didn't remember seeing it there when I looked back. Was it resting comfortably in the camera bag I left in Raleigh to make the suit case lighter? Nope, I had checked that twice before leaving.

If there's one thing I had done, it was pack and repack and then check everything again. When you leave your house, you'd better have everything you need for that shoot. Otherwise, you'll miss your flight or later waste precious time trying to buy the thing you've forgotten. I still couldn't find it. And by this time, I was starting to break a sweat, angry at myself for letting something so silly as a connection cable like that waste my precious interviewing time.

Oh, my kingdom for a cable!

I surrendered. And took off the wool sweater that was helping me turn red with anger over such a silly missed detail. We sat down to start again, and John was ever so patient with me. We started rolling the tape.

The Interview
Having read his books, I was prepared for our interview. But, I confess, reading the stories and hearing them in person quite different. I found myself struggling to restrain against sitting back to listen with undivided attention. Like a kid at story time, I wanted to sit with my legs crossed and my chin resting on my knuckles and stare in fascination at what would be shared next.

Acting as the director and interviewer, though, I did my best to listen, zoom out when he used his hands, and still be prepared with my next questions so the transition from one answer to another would be logical and seamless for him.

It's been really interesting to compare each interviewee against one another. Some of them are slow to answer, others are very succinct and eloquent, and most of them are well versed in giving interviews. I feel so lucky to be speaking with them, and appreciative of their patience with a new filmmaker.

In two short hours, we wrapped the interview. My legs were restless, but I could have sat and listened to him talk for the rest of the afternoon. We stopped the tape, and he left me to strike what had become our set as he prepared our lunch.

John and Gail served me one of the best roast beef sandwhiches I have ever tasted (or probably will ever taste). John had made them, and--wow--was it delicious. I learned that John was a cook at age 17. I can hardly remember what I was doing at 17. Perhaps life guarding? I was very impressed, needless to say.

Post-Interview
The rest of the afternoon we spent looking through photographs and scanning in the ones we thought would be most helpful. I came home with a striking collection, and really look forward to using them in the film.

What a relief it is to start collecting visuals! I have been quite anxious about how to collect these, knowing that I would need them, but not able to focus on that effort just yet. While in the midst of filming, it is tough to start working on post-production efforts like collecting images. I recognize that now we have wrapped filming, and collecting those has become quite easier with the help from many key folks (more on that later).

After we wrapped those efforts, we took my equipment back to the Inn and headed to The Flying Eagle for a fish fry. It was delightful! We stepped out of the vehicle into the frigid air, and the view of such a clear starry night sky was unforgettable. I have not seen stars like that since I lived in my hometown in Eastern N.C. Not a cloud in the sky, just a big blanket of twinkling stars above.

In short, the entire day was one dream come true after the next. The interview, scanning the images and the delicious food made for one amazing day. This, my friends, is the type of thing you only see in movies because it's almost too good to be true!

Thursday Recap (Part II)

Well, I'm safely back in Raleigh, N.C., now. It's delightful to blog from the comfort of my own home! Little Louie is asleep and cozy, and I'm tucked in tight under an electric blanket. The city is fairly cold, but compared to yesterday's temps in Wisconsin it feels delightfully warm! (Here is a picture of the picnic table just outside my Inn. Look at all of that snow on it. Beautiful, hey?)

It feels like so much happened over the past few days that capturing it here doesn't do it any justice.

Yesterday I tried to use my time wisely and write while in the airport, which thankfully had free wi-fi. However, I sat down to start writing and before I could get my thoughts out, that guy walked into the ladie's room, and I didn't stop him because I couldn't very well go in after him. (That would be wierd.) Then I kept writing since the airport wasn't busy, but the little old lady went in after him! I tried to focus, but over heard her kicking him out and then as he exited he giggled a little. By the time I had typed anything, they then called us through security. Oh well! You win some, you loose some. I gave up and put away my laptop as a US Air Force soldier nodded and smiled at me, "That's us! You better go through security."

So, without further ado, here is a recap of the rest of Thursday since it was tough to capture during the first attempt.

Thursday's activities weren't terribly exciting. I worked from the hotel so I didn't have to take another vacation day, and was really grateful to be able to do that. My job has taught my so many skills that I have used while making this film: prioritizing, schedule coordination, anticipating someone's reaction, looking into the future to ensure everything runs smoothly. Yes, my full time job is not something I take for granted. I really enjoy the work, flexibility and environment. It's tough to have a full time job I enjoy so much, and then have such a fun project like this to work on as well! So, I did my best to work remotely and be as available as possible even though I wasn't in the office.

Thursday night, the Plaster's took me out to show me their bowling alley and then we ate some incredibly tasty pizza. Once again, the conversation was delightful. They are such an inspiring couple, tackling so many fun projects together. It seems they champion and challenge one another very well. John called Gail beautiful at one point over the past few days, and she grinned back at him. "Can you elaborate?" she smiled. I told her I was definitely stealing that line!

When I got back to the Inn, I checked the sanner to be sure it came with everything I needed. It was missing a USB cord, and of course I didn't have an extra one on me. I semi-panicked at the thought of having to drive two hours to get the cord (one hour each way to Duluth). I spoke with a kind woman named Pat at the front desk, who helped me look through what they had on hand. No USB cords available. "We don't do much on computers at the front desk," she said.

But Wal-Mart should be open, and it was only 30-40 miles away. She thought it was 24/7, and called them to be absolutely certain. It would be about a 1/2 hour drive in each direction. And now it was after 9:30pm. I didn't want to call the Plasters that late to see if they had the cord, plus it's my responsibility to show up with everything I need to work.

I made the treck in the dark, a little nervous that should anything go wrong I wouldn't know who to call. There were few gas stations on the road, miles apart from one another and only frozen wilderness separated them. I wasn't sure anyone could come to my rescue if anything happened.

Pat, at the front desk, also confessed she was worried about me being out on the road so late at night. But, our worries were for naught. I made it to Wal-Mart, picked up the USB cord, and made it back to the Inn before 11pm. I let her know I was back, and she sighed with relief. It was a good feeling to know someone was looking out for me.

Now having everything I needed for the next day's work, I settled in for some rest. Anxious, restless, and nervous about the next day (I always get nervous before the interviews), I found myself tossing and turning. So I pulled out John's book, Secret Commandoes: Behind Enemy Lines with the Elite Warriors of SOG. I felt like I had much of it fresh in my memory, but reviewing it made me sleep easier. He's a great writer, and shares details of operations that happen behind enemy lines during the Vietnam War. Having read it, I almost feel like I was there with him, knew the people he served with, and suffered through the losses with him. It's interesting to think that reading someone's writing makes you feel like you know the person.

There was no time to think about that in depth, though. I had to get some rest so I would be able to show up on time, ready to work. There would be no way I could pack the car, drive to his home, unload the 100+ lbs of equipment, set everything up, conduct the interview, and then spend hours scanning images if I didn't have a full night's rest. That meant falling asleep, and immediately. I put the book down, turned off the lights and sighed. Thankfully it wasn't long before I peacefully drifted off to sleep.

Friday was the big day.

Thursday's Events

So, I promised you a recap, didn't I? Here we go...

Thursday
You've already heard about Wednesday's activities. On Thursday I woke up fairly early, and worked from the hotel throughout the day. It was rather uneventful, other than feeling strange to work remotely from a hotel room rather than my own home. That's a first for me. I'm incredibly thankful for my full time job that affords me (side note: a guy just went into the woman's bathroom at the airport!) the luxury of working remotely and traveling. I feel really lucky.

I also drove an hour back into Duluth to pick up a scanner. Had I had my wits about me on Wednesday, I would have picked one up before leaving town. But I haven't lived in a small town since 1999, so I have forgotten what it's like to not have immediate access to what you want. I got a little printer (side note: a woman just went into the ladies while the guy's still in there), and went back to the Inn where I stayed. A fairly uneventful drive, but I got what I needed...or so I thought.

Around 5pm, the Plasters picked me up and we went to Judy's Drift In for a beer. It was the second time I'd been there, and everyone welcomed me like I'd been there forever. I love small towns, where everyone knows your name. (Lady in bathroom said, "Either you're in the wrong one, or I am." Guy exits bathroom and giggles.)

The Plasters showed me around town, we had a bite to eat, and we chatted a bit about life and what keeps us busy. They understand my desire for having more hours in the day. We also confirmed the plans for filming on Friday, and they dropped me off at the Inn again.

That evening I found myself in the quiet room again, alone with my thoughts and Plaster's books. I mentally ran through the next morning: getting ready, packing the car, setting up the equipment, the interview, then scanning his images after that.

(Just got the announcement for my flight.)

I fell asleep around 1am, anxious and excited about the following day's activities and hopeful that I might live up to their expectations. There was much to accomplish the next day, and I knew the hours would disappear all too quickly.

Another Recap to Come

Oh, my friends. I have been so spoiled over these past few days! The intelligent conversations over most delicious food, beautiful scenery and kind people--can a working weekend get any better?

Tomorrow I leave to return to North Carolina. Normally a very happy (and warm) Southerner, I find myself quite surprisingly at home here in the North! My hosts, John and Gail Plaster, have been treating my like royalty and showing me the haven they have here.

Much has happened since my last post, but I will capture it all as I wait for my plane tomorrow. Right now, my brain is a bit exhausted and ready for rest!

The Spot

As the Military Channel plays "Great Planes" in the background, I reflect on today. It was a very long and exciting day. I left RDU at 9am, surprisingly enough. With about 6" of snowfall in Raleigh yesterday, I honestly wasn't expecting to leave the city any time soon. Delightfully relieved that the flight wasn't delayed or canceled, I made it to Duluth on time!

Overweight, Again
Yep, my bags were over the weight limit again. Having to rearrange my checked baggage because it's over the weight limit is becoming routine. I thought I had it figured out this time, having kept my tripod in my hand as a carry on instead of packing it. The heaviest suitcase is virtually empty. I blame the lighting equipment. The Northwest Airlines check-in counter lady was very firm. It had to be less than 50lbs. By the third attempt, though, she kindly let me slip by with just 1.5lbs over the limit.

Eventually I was on the way to the gate.

Later I arrived in Detroit, made my connecting flight and then finally made it to Duluth.

Interesting People, Places
When I got to Duluth, I couldn't find my bags on the big metal baggage claim carousel. It wasn't moving. I looked left, looked right. Couldn't find my bags anywhere. I looked at a guy who had an official airport ID card hanging from his shirt. "Is this the only baggage claim area," I asked, rather confused because I had been getting misdirected all throughout the Detroit airport. He nodded. As I turned around, I saw my two bags sitting in a corner by a door. Whew, I had almost had a heart attack.

Seconds later, I was getting my rental car. The woman at the car rental counter in Duluth and I had an interesting conversation. This is why I love to travel. You meet the most interesting people in the most unexpected places. And if you're hip to it, you can learn a lot from a stranger fairly quickly. Hearing someone's story never ceases to fascinate me. People like to tell their story. You have to be patient and listen. But even at the rental car counter, you can learn part of someone's story.

She told me about her ex-husband, a Special Forces recon man who stood at a striking 6'7" tall. Now, 6'7" is tall in the States, but just imagine being that tall in the jungles of Vietnam being hunted by the VC--yikes. He was probably three feet taller than the locals around him, making him a prime shooting target. She told me how he learned to hide by leaning against trees because he was so skinny. And how he got wounded, shot in the head and thigh. She had married him after he returned from Vietnam, and on occassion would find him doing what she called "strange things" around the house. She said that the war really messed him up, and that she was glad they "deprogrammed him" when he got back, otherwise she could very well have been killed by him.

We didn't talk for a really long time, but we did cover a fair bit of details. She asked why I was there, and what the documentary was about. It made me wish I had business cards and a website up already so I share it easily when asked. She handed me the keys and directions, wishing me luck and a great trip.

On the Road East
Before I left the airport, I stopped to take this picture. I was finally on my way East on the last leg of the journey. It would be a fairly straight shot on the road, and I was told that I couldn't miss the Inn where I am staying over the next few nights. Before I knew it, I was crossing over Lake Superior and then quickly entering Wisconsin. And just as quickly, I was checked in and unpacking.

Meeting John and Gail
Around 5pm, as promised, John came to the Inn to pick me up for dinner. And over the next hours, John and his wife, Gail, would make me feel like visiting royalty! This is my first trip to Minnesota and Wisconsin, and I am quite taken with what I have seen today, thanks to them. It is easy to understand why they enjoy living here so much. While I had not planned on staying so long originally, I am quite happy that I will have more time to work remotely and get to know them.

They showed me around the area, and a few places I may need to know about over the coming days. We talked about what we enjoy (work, hobbies, recreational fun, etc.), travel, Vietnam, the Montagnards, Hollywood, writing and screenwriting, and even a little bit about blogging and social media! We eventually had dinner at a place called The Spot, on a lake where they pointed out people were ice fishing.

Ice fishing! How have I never seen anyone ice fishing in real life? Just as the darkness of evening set in, you could spot little shacks out on the frozen lake. Some had lights inside them. Then some times cars would come and go, driving slowly across the frozen water. I was fascinated and probably asked a lot of silly I'm-from-the-South questions. (But how will you learn if you don't ask?) We found common ground when comparing it to NCSU tailgating, as those little shacks have many of the comforts of home just like the good ole boys can swing together back home. Just like we tailgate in the heat and humidity in NC with tents and pig cookers and friends, the ice fishers stay out there and have a good time with their buddies in these rather comfy shacks on ice. I was so excited to learn more about it, having never really encountered the chance to even think on the topic.

The more we talked and dined, the more I got excited about our on camera interview. And with every bite of that amazing Steak Deburgo, I learned more about the two new friends sitting with me. I am sincerely excited about learning from them.

The Coming Days
Tonight we finalized our plans for filming: day, time, location, etc. I have a lot of exciting work ahead of me, for sure. With each step of this process, I grow more and more humbled and appreciative of such an opportunity.

Now the Real Work Begins

Like so many people around the world, I have been watching the inauguration of President Barack Obama. Everyone is talking about it, so I will be brief and simply say that now the real work begins. The world is watching, and I certainly hope we can all live up to the great promises that have been made. If history has taught me anything, it is that promises are hard to keep. The Vietnam War ended in the 70s but the Montagnards still need our support. I sincerely hope we do not leave Iraq the same way we left Vietnam. The real work begins today. Let's get to it.

Welcome Home a Hero

My mom shared this with me today, and I am so happy to share it with you.



Here is the written version as well: http://abcnews.go.com/WNT/PersonOfWeek/Story?id=2845247&page=1.

Count Down Continues

As Wednesday grows near, my heart starts to beat faster at the thought of how much I have left to do in the coming days. There is so much to do before I leave for MN to interview Major John Plaster, one of the leading sniper experts and a supporter of the Montagnard people. To say that I'm looking forward to meeting and interviewing him would be an understatement. I have been enjoying his books so much over the past months, and I can't wait to hear his answers to my questions. An expert's undivided attention, recorded on film, is quite possibly one of the greatest nerve-racking and simultaneously exciting things I have experienced.

In other news, I had lunch with a potential new volunteer. A friend from my hometown connected us because of his interest in screenwriting and the Montagnards. He met one of the guys I interviewed for our film, who is incredibly knowledgeable about the Montagnard history and culture. Our conversation was great, and I am hoping he can help us make this film come together very soon. As I do for all of our volunteers, I asked him what would keep him interested/motivated and what he preferred to work on. I'm looking forward to getting to know him, and seeing what he can contribute!

While waiting for him to walk into our appointed meeting place, I spent a fair amount of time jotting down ideas: my to do list, the process we will follow in the coming months, and a letter to our filmmaking partners. My eye started to twitch as I thought of all that I wanted to do to make this project great. But it was very rewarding to have the few moments of silence to put all of those floating thoughts on paper.

It is also very rewarding to know that you have a team of volunteers available to help you get work done. I am looking forward to once again amping up our efforts over the coming months. But for now, I must focus on preparing for Wednesday's departure because it will be here before I know it!

Back in the Saddle Again

Last weekend I wrote a new post for this blog, but never published it. The entire thing was scattered and lacked focus, which is exactly what the subject matter of the post was, ironically enough. I was coming out of what felt like a coma, having been in bed for over a week.

But, I am happy to report that I have been at work now for two days! I'm not back to 100% just yet, but feel infinitely better than I have in the past week. And tomorrow marks the one-week milestone to when I leave for MN for the final interview of the film. I am so excited to meet this person that I can hardly stand it.

This is a short post tonight, folks. There will be much more to report on this film very soon, I am sure!

A Few Updates

The past week has been a tough one. I find it hard to write when I don't have much positive to express, so I typically write privately. It's something I have been doing for years. But the tough times teach us lessons as well, and I think carrying on, or writing anyway, is important.

Last Saturday, I finally caved and went to the doctor to figure out why I was coughing so much. As it turns out, I have bronchitis. Since then, I have been a bit angry about being sick so much. For a while I tried to push through it. Then on Monday, I called in sick and have been in bed almost every moment since then. Today was the first day I have been back to work. And not a moment has gone by that I haven't appreciated our sick leave policy. I ended up working only a half day today, and am thankful I have the opportunity to rest and coworkers who support me there.

Tomorrow, I leave for South Carolina for a funeral service. My grandfather's sister passed away this week, and I have been very sad about that. She was quite an impressive woman, and will be missed so much.

In news related to the Montagnard film, though, I am quite pleased to announce that the final interview has been scheduled. I've booked my flight, and will be heading to MN this month. With that interview finalized, I can then pour myself wholeheartedly into creating a director's cut. I cannot express how excited I am about this, as I feel as if I have been waiting so long to make that happen!

It is all coming together.

Nearing Year End

Christmas is this week. I'm still in shock that the year has gone by so quickly. I suppose that's what happens when you're working on a project you enjoy this much! There is so much more work to be done, and time just keeps slipping away each day.

Today I did a wee bit of Christmas shopping on my lunch break. Over at Southeastern Camera, I feel like a kid in a candy shop. There's so much to drool over in the store, and every time I go in there's the chance to catch up with my friends that work there. They are so kind and helpful. Today they gave me about half a dozen fresh Florida oranges for free! (For those of you who know me well, you know that is a bit of heaven. Oranges are one of my favorite foods, and I do love something free as well!)

While I was in the store, I ran into one of the guys I met while working on my film. His name is Alex, and he's a local photographer and friend of many of the folks I know in the Montagnard community. We shot a Montagnard-American wedding over the summer. He asked how the film was coming along and told me about some of the projects he is working on. We talked shop a little while and caught up. It was delightful to see a smiling face that I had not seen in so many months. This project has introduced me to some of the finest people, and I am so grateful for that.

As the holidays draw near, and I spend more and more time with family, I realize how much I have learned from the Montagnard culture in the past year. The cultural traditions that keep the family close together, serving and supporting one another, and holding each other accountable as a community are so valuable.

The Montagnards as a whole have faced great adversity, and have done so much to smile in the face of trouble. I reflect on a line from Louis L'Amour that has stuck with me for years, as he wrote about the cowboys he met and studied. He talked about how hard they worked, how they suffered, and coped with changing times. In the midst of it all, they shared this one common trait in his opinion: dignity. No matter what they had seen, they all shared a quiet dignity about them.

Many of the Montagnards I have met over the past year have been the leaders in their community. Many of the servicemen and experts on the Montagnard culture are leaders in their community. And each person that has sat down with me, in front of my camera, to share their story has had this same quiet dignity.

Leadership is not something you can learn by attending Harvard, Stanford or Yale. It is something that must be earned and learned. Education and experience that go hand in hand to shape a great leader. It is something that rests deep inside one and grows from that core when nurtured or forced by necessity. Leadership is an ever-changing shape that can be at one moment tougher than titanium or at another moment very calm and serene. A pent up energy that may be released when provoked. In short, the lion and the lamb all in one.

These men with whom I have spoken are fascinating to me. They are great leaders, yet humble in every way. They are strong and proud, but not loud and boastful--that difference is very important to note. They are the heroes of our time, and yet they walk among us each day.

As we near the end of a year, I hope to spend more time reflecting on 2008--the year that permitted me to finally rise out of the dreamer's resting post and run towards the dream. As we race faster towards welcoming a new day, a new January 1st, I hope to spend more time sketching out the upcoming days, months and year. One thing is for certain, it will be one wild adventure!

Chicago Recap, Part II

Is it just me, or is time passing entirely too quickly? How is it that Christmas is just days away? Craziness. Well, I promised a second recap to my Chicago trip, and here it is for your reading pleasure!

I last left you with details of my delightful interview with Dr. Hickey on Friday, December 5th. That evening, Katie and Clayton took me to see more improv (specifically one of our friends from ComedyWorx, Jorin and his team). Without further ado, here's the rest of the weekend!

Saturday
On Friday, my host and hostess spent some time with me chatting about what we would do with our free day. It was the last day I would be in town to do anything, and we could spend it anyway we wanted to have fun. We planned to spend some time improvising some short films, and possibly do some photo shoots. Two things I would have loved to do with them. Honestly, I had completed the major task, and was so blissfully free of worry that I was up for anything they offered.

But instead of filming short movies or shooting portraits, I slept away the majority of the day! Katie had an actor's workshop that morning, which lasted until early afternoon. By the time she returned to their apartment, I had only been out of bed for about 1/2 an hour! It's the first time I've done that in a really long time. It was much needed rest, I assure you of that!

The entire day was full of fun. Clayton took me to meet some of his friends, who lived just down the street. Lucy was one of our kind hostesses, and she made us freshly baked chocolate chip cookies. We sat together in the kitchen as she baked, and it reminded me of living with the Latta girls. Spontaneous gatherings that end up being unforgettable evenings. This was one of them.

After the cookies, we went back to Clayton's and met up with Katie. We got ready for the evening, and then went to meet Lucy and her group for a traditional Senegalese dinner. Her friends had studied abroad, and taught us the traditional dinner and the role played by the "mother" who helps everyone eat from the same plate. It was really fascinating to learn the cultural norms. They let me take a few pictures.

From dinner, we went on to see some more improv. It's amazing what improv has taught me: reading body language, the art of story telling, rules of comedy, subtext in conversations, and more. It's helped introduce me to so many amazing people. In a few words...it's a very big part of who I am and what I enjoy.

That night Katie and I went to another theatre, a nonprofit. We saw three groups perform, two of which were musical acts. I rather enjoyed it, and saw so many familiar faces! After the show we joined up with Clayton at a party not too far away. What an incredible night. We headed home in the wee hours of the morning, and even stopped for a snow ball fight.

The entire day was unscripted, and delightfully so. So many aspects of my life are so planned and timed that the day was a much appreciated time for tagging along. Clayton and Katie were both very kind to let me join them, show me around the city, and introduce me to so many new friends.

Sunday
I confess I was sad to see Sunday come around. I have loved Chicago for so long, and each time I visit I have more and more fun. But, I woke with purpose that morning, as there is much work to be done and what feels like very little time to complete it. With each month that passes, I grow more and more anxious to share this story with everyone.

Katie had a second day at her workshop, and left early that morning. We chatted a bit before she left, and laughed about the weekend. I packed my bags, hoping that they wouldn't be over the weight limit when I got to Midway. With two pairs of pants, two pairs of socks, scarf, hat, new down coat, and ski gloves on I hugged Clayton good-bye and walked out into the brisk air.

With the two cases buckled together, I pulled them down the street a few blocks to the train station. With directions on my Blackberry, I easily found my way back to the airport, working up a sweat on the way from lugging the equipment.

With each step I took, I fell further and further into thoughts about the movie. What had Dr. Hickey shared that we had not previously filmed? In what order should I tell the story so that we can keep it moving along at a reasonable pace? Should it be told chronologically or start with present day? What images and graphics will I use to keep it visually interesting for our audiences?

I was so lost in thought that I got in the wrong line at the terminal. The Southwest Airlines woman looked at my ticket, frowned, and threw her index finger up to point me to another very long line. "You have to go to the back of that line," she growled.

Sighing, I smiled and walked away. While in the new line, I kept my head down, staring at my Blackberry (half embarrased that I had been in the wrong line, and half annoyed that I now had to be the last person to board the plane because I hadn't been paying attention).

A quiet and kind voice said, "I like your bottle opener."

I turned around to say thank you, and through polite conversation I found out that an NCSU professor of communications was standing behind me. The key chain bottle opener my friend Astra had given me years earlier proved to be quite a conversation starter. I confessed that I had been staying with Carolina fans all weekend, and she smirked.

"Did you tell them who won the last game?!" she grinned.

"No, I held my tongue and resisted shouting 41-10!" we both laughed a little too loud. The Southwest Airlines ticket taker frowned at me again, almost as if to tell me to get out of town. I smiled at her again. The weekend had been so fun, so full of friendly people, that she wasn't about to negatively affect my mood.

My new friend and I sat together through the flight, and shared many stories. We turned out to be kindred spirits, and I'm so thankful for her company. We sat on the tarmack for almost 45 minutes, and saw lots of smoke coming from the engines out the window. The smell of smoke filled the cabin, and led many of us to think the worst. I've been flying my entire life, and have never thought twice about any crash landings until that day. It made me realize how much I take safe travel for granted.

We skidded around so much in our landing at RDU that I thought I might not see the day this film reached completion. Thoughts of someone else debuting the film immediately rushed through my head, and angrily I decided that this was simply not going to happen because I was not giving it away that easily! This was my project to see through the end!

The second I had that thought, almost as if on cue, the plane righted itself on the tarmack. We taxied over to the terminal and were within moments walking through RDU. I think we all breathed a sigh of relief to have our feet safely on the floor of the terminal. My new friend and I parted ways, and a few moments later I made it to the baggage claim area. Spotting my two heavy pieces, I swiped them off the belt with ease. Finally! They seemed so light, having carried them around all weekend!

My smiling sister and brother-in-law walked towards me as I looked up. Warm hugs were shared, and my load immediately lightened. What a joy to have helping hands escort me home. They have been so kind and helpful with this project! When they delivered me to my little home, my dog was even there waiting for me.

All in all, the weekend could not have been more perfect. It was one of those weekends that you see from a film and think, "Does anyone really live that way?" Yes, indeed, folks. There are moments of one's life that are absolutely this dreamy.

Chicago Recap

It's Wednesday, and I returned from Chicago on Sunday. It's still hard to believe I was just up there, and what an incredible trip I had. The entire trip was just unforgettable. Here's a recap!

Thursday
On Thursday I left for RDU around 8am, thanks to my sister who gave me a ride to the airport. She saved us lots of money on parking, for which I am very thankful. When I got to the check-in counter, I was told that my large suitcase (carrying my camera, lights and tripod) was about five pounds overweight. So, in front of everyone in line I had to find a way to ditch some weight. Eventually my bags were checked and I was on the way to the security check point. There's something both degrading and equalizing about going through security.

A few hours later, I arrived in Chicago. The flight wasn't full and was thankfully uneventful. I casually gathered my bags, reorganized them a bit, and began transitioning to being in the big city! Katie had sent me directions via Facebook, which I had on my Blackberry. So taking public transportation to their place was a breeze (although pulling 100+ pounds of equipment through the snow and ice was tough!). By the time I got to Clayton and Katie's place, I was winded and freezing! I'm sure I was a site to see in my pitifully light peacoat.

Clayton and I spent some time catching up and playing some Wii games, then he walked me down to a place called Potbelly Sandwich Works. We had lunch/dinner there and then walked over to Uncle Dan's to buy some winter clothes, per Clayton's recommendation (for which I am incredibly grateful). I bought a knee-length down coat there (like this one shown), which helped me survive the frigid weather throughout the weekend.

We went back to their place and caught up with Katie later that evening. With lots of great conversations about their adventure moving from Raleigh to Chicago, the ease of travel and excitement/anticipation of the interview the next day, Thursday was just wonderful.

We went to iO Chicago that night to see some friends perform on a team called The Lindbergh Babies 2.0. It was so great to be in the theater again, especially to see so many familiar faces! On the way home that night, I don't think I could have been more grateful for that coat I bought and the journey I was taking.

Friday
By habit, I woke up fairly early Friday morning. Katie had already left for work, so I quietly packed and left for the interview so I wouldn't wake up Clayton. My phone didn't change to the new time (Chicago's an hour ahead of Raleigh), so all morning I was incredibly nervous about making it to the interview on time.

Since I'd left too early to go straight to Dr. Hickey's (on purpose) I spent a few hours at a small table at a dessert store, reading and preparing for the interview. The people running the store were so friendly and funny. They gave me a hard time about carrying so much luggage, and sternly told me I should move to Chicago as soon as possible!

While there, I reread key passages from Dr. Hickey's books, reviewed my notes and questions, and contemplated how the afternoon would pan out. I like to take the time to be sure I'm of the right mindset before I get started, so that AM prep time was critical. However, the time quickly passed and I found myself out on the sidewalk again, heading to a spot where I could find a cab a little easier. Dr. Hickey's place was only about five miles away from my present location, but my weak little arms were about to give out!

While walking down the street, a chilling wind stirred and I adjusted my coat and scarf to keep warm. Looking up again, I nodded at a gentleman doing the very same as if to say, "Yeah, it's cold out here!" We made eye contact, and he smiled as he passed. Then a second after he had passed, I thought to myself, "I know that smile. How do I know him?" It then hit me that I had just nodded and smiled at Tim Meadows. He's now performing at iO, which was just a few blocks away from where we were. Quite ironic that I should pass him on the street, no?!

I immediately turned around to see if it was him, in sort of a double take fashion. But, it being so cold outside, everyone starts to look the same from behind. Nothing but coats with hoods walking along the sidewalk, unless you see someone coming towards you as I just had.

When I got down the block a bit, I stopped at a fairly busy intersection, and within a few minutes a cab beeped at me to see if I wanted a ride. One great thing about lugging that bag? Cabbies spot you quickly because they think you're heading to the airport! I gratefully handed over the bag to let him put it in the trunk and sort of fell into the back seat, stripping off the extra layers that had just brought me so much warmth in the cold wind. Out of breath, I gave him the address and we were quickly on our way to the downtown Chicago apartment.

We had an interesting conversation en route about religion and the differences between Christian and Muslim beliefs. The Pakistani driver told me he was studying the Qur'an, and even cited some of what he had memorized. He was trying to memorize the entire thing, despite not being fluent in Arabic. I patiently and curiously listened as we steadily cruised down Lake Shore Drive. When we came to a stoplight, he stopped speaking and must have read my thoughts because he excitedly said, "It sounds more like singing, doesn't it?"

The conversation lasted all the way to the door of the apartment building, and continued even as he unpacked the car. I think the only pause was when he struggled to lift the bag from the trunk! (I was glad to know he struggled a bit, purely because it made me feel less like a weakling.) I paid him, and scurried up to the lobby, pressing the button for Dr. Hickey's room.

A man answered, and upon telling him that I was there the door buzzed and I went up a few stairs to the elevator to meet him. The second the elevator doors opened, I spotted him there waiting at the door in front of me with a kind, warm smile.

He let me in, and we chatted as I unpacked the film equipment. We spotted a corner of the room to use as a backdrop, and he kindly let me rearrange his living room to set up two chairs, two lights and the camera. He asked about the others we had interviewed, and what I had learned along the way.

I told him about Mike Benge, Greg Stock and Roger Donlon. I probably sounded like a groupie confessing how much I had enjoyed reading his books. Now that I think about it, I have been incredibly lucky to speak with so many published authors. So many of the people we have interviewed have written accounts of their adventures and what they have learned. Dr. Hickey is an anthropologist who has published his findings on the Montagnards, and the two books I have read are so eloquent and informative. Everyone with whom I have spoken on this subject identifies him as the expert I need to know. Because of the work Surry has done, people have been willing to speak with me. It is clear that the respect they have for him washes over on to me, which is much like an unexpected embrace.

It ocurred to me on Friday, as I knelt to plug in the lights and listened to Dr. Hickey sitting behind me, that some authors have a strong voice in print but not in real life. Dr. Hickey is the rare type of author who speaks as well as he writes. And when he speaks, you delight in hearing what wisdom he will impart upon you. Like so many of these experts, he kindly corrects me when I make a statement that could be misinterpreted! I feel so thankful to be surrounded by experts dedicated to making sure that what we share is factual.

The interview was just wonderful. Dr. Hickey was very hospitable, and even offered to serve me tea after the interview concluded. We sat and talked even more about the state of our nation, about all the talk of change and whether or not it will actually happen, and how many folks might be too focused on the economy to care about the war in Iraq, much less what's happening today in Vietnam. He understands the reality of asking DC to change. He's tried it for years, as have all of these others with whom I've spoken.

While I know this reality well, I find that the eternal optimist in me is defiant and difficult to quiet. In the past year, I have studied social media and I have heard people like Jim Tobin tell us that social media gives a voice to everyone. While I'm certainly not the social media expert like Tobin, I do know that this feels like a new era, where big companies can no longer ignore the individual. A time where the government absolutely must listen to each citizen who speaks up. A time where we--as a nation--can once again converse and move as a group. We're not just individuals, we can move together as one tribe like we did in the beginning. It is fascinating to me!

Dr. Hickey and I wrapped up our conversation, and then I began to pack up the equipment. He complimented my skills at fitting so much into one small bag. "It's a gift my grandfather gave me before he passed away," I told him. We then chatted about how so many people in my family served in WWII, a conversation that led to genealogy. He has been researching his family history, and told me that they had been in Chicago for quite some time. Once again, I was so thankful for my grandmother's hard work in discovering and recording our family history. It has become so much of who I am, knowing my family history.

Dr. Hickey helped me hail a cab, and before I knew it he was wishing me luck and I was on my way back to Clayton and Katie's apartment.

That evening we went out to dinner, and then went to see some more improv at the American Theater Company. We watched two teams perform that night, one of which was Pudding Thank You. Pictures I took are here if you wish to see them! The team consists of Jorin Garguilo, Louis Saunders, Adal Rifai, and Ryan Patrick Dolan.

Jorin is an old ComedyWorx player, who has worked hard to help bring Chicago folks to North Carolina. Because of Jorin's help in setting up an annual improv invitational here in Raleigh, I recognized so many familiar faces while I was in Chicago. I'm incredibly grateful for what he's done to strengthen the community. It's a great feeling to recognize so many faces when I visit, and I know that is because of him. Plus, he's a fun, generous improviser to watch, too. Jorin and Adal recently played with my team Temporary Tag, and it was an unforgettable night--they both are incredibly talented performers. (Hope they don't mind the shout out!)

More on the past weekend to come soon! I still have to tell you about Saturday and Sunday, and already I have rambled on long enough for one post. Stay tuned...

Weekend Recap is Coming

Last night I returned from Chicago. My sister and brother-in-law picked me up at RDU, and dropped me off at home. My little pup was there waiting for me, too!

I've spent today resting up, not realizing how completely exhausted I really was from such an incredible weekend. Fearing a relapse of any illness (having had mono over the summer/fall), I'm much more conscious of not going faster than I can physically handle. Not only was I not used to the weather, I wasn't used to carrying 100+ pounds of filmming equipment through the snow! Quite a task to do by yourself, but today I recognized that my arms are much stronger than they were last week. Reminds me of all the boot camp training I've been reading about: struggling while carrying more than one can imagine, and then one day realizing how strong you have become as a result. Not to mention how tied to that equipment you are; knowing you rely on it, protect it and keep it working well. That equipment becomes an extension of yourself in a way.

For four days, I've been in filmmaker mode. Playing the film in my head repeatedly, obsessing over getting the materials I must have to tell the story well, mapping out the post-production schedule to get everything completed, and curious about whether I'll be able to meet my self-imposed deadlines. Yes, it is tough to compartmentalize or quiet those thoughts in order to return to work. And I love my full time job, so I can only imagine how much more difficult it would be if I only had a position that paid the bills instead of one that speaks to my passion as this one does.

I'm very happy that I gave myself a day to rest before going back to work so that I can go in tomorrow with a clear mind. It's tough to switch your state of mind from filmmaker to full time employee, but now that I am back home and readjusted I think I can go in tomorrow ready to work. Hopefully soon I can write a more complete summary of the past few days, so that I'll have them documented.

As I told Surry, I've had to pinch myself lately because this feels too much like a dream. How is it possible that I have been lucky enough to work on a project like this one, meet the fine people that I have been introduced to, and sit down to tea with a man like Dr. Hickey to discuss the state of our nation and politics. I have grown fond of this position, one in which I am allowed access to great minds, respected leaders, and real heroes.

Final Call

Whew! The past few days have gone by too quickly. I've been preparing for tomorrow's departure with feverish efforts. Thankfully, Southwest Airlines does not charge for the first or second checked bag.

I'm finding it tough to pack for a flight with the equipment. Hopefully I won't get to the counter to find out that it's over the weight limit. This is the minutia we face to get things done, no!? I'm going to have to sacrifice on clothes in order to make sure the equipment gets there!

On a more serious note, this trip has helped me recognize many things:

• Filming locally has been a luxury, and is incredibly convenient
• Traveling to film (while I definitely enjoy it) requires more resources: vacation time from my full time job, funds to travel (or in this case, credit), energy to get to the location and set everything up, etc.
  
• Having a production assistant or director of photography is a luxury I hope to have on the next project
• Surry, family, friends, interviewees and the team of volunteers make up one incredible collaborative effort; there's not a day that goes by that I am not thankful for that help
  
• I'm growing more anxious to share the finished film, and check my patience regularly
• The need to be so familiar with your equipment that it is an extension of yourself is as true for moving pictures as it is for still photography; and mirrors that of a soldier and his equipment

There is little time to write a great deal of deep thoughts at the moment. I still have to get a few more affairs in order before I fly tomorrow. We are in the home stretch now, though, with this interview this week and hopefully another one in the coming month. I see the film playing in my mind regularly, and am desperate to see it come together.

Finalizing Plans

I just got off the phone with Dr. Hickey, and confirmed our interview time for this Friday afternoon. My flight plans are in order. And I'm staying with friends who just recently moved to Chicago. There's much more work to be done in the coming days, but things are shaping up quite nicely right now. I'm excited about the journey.

Chicago

Next week I will interview Dr. Hickey in Chicago. I cannot express how excited I am about this interview. There is much work to be done in the coming days, and even more work to be done when I return.

The blog posts may be few and far between, but that merely means I am working hard! However, I have been making updates via text (from my phone) that are sent directly to my Twitter account. When I travel next week, that will be a great way to follow me on the adventure! Visit here to keep track: www.twitter.com\cammicam.

This film about the Montagnards has such great potential, and I am looking forward to piecing it all together in the coming months!

A Full Day of Filming

What an incredible day. My sister and I were so exhausted Friday night that we crashed really early. I think I fell asleep seconds after we turned out the lights. Because we went to sleep so early, I was wide awake by 7am. It was actually kind of nice to wake up naturally, having rested so well.

By 8am, we were on the road to Mike's place for the interviews. We stopped to pick up some breakfast (most importantly coffee), and were on our way. He lived just minutes from the hotel, so we got there in no time. Mike met us downstairs and helped us carry up my equipment.

With two of us working, the camera and lights were ready to go fairly quickly. My sister (Adger) left when we had it all set up, and headed to Ikea to go shopping. I have been SO thankful to have her here with me. Not only is she incredibly generous, but she's one of the best travel companions a person could ask for on the road. She has been absolutely essential to the success of this weekend's filming, running errands and helping at every turn.

Mike and I sat down to chat for a bit since we were ahead of schedule. I asked him to show me some of the articles and photos he had mentioned previously. He pulled out a notebook full of articles he's written about the Montagnards and what's still happening in Vietnam. His dedication is unfailing, and his knowledge has been so valueable in my quest for understanding. The same is absolutely true for Greg, who has shared insights about what's happening today and helping me understand the politics of the situation. Both are committed to making a difference for the Montagnards, and continuing to help them learn how to make things better for themselves.

Both interviews concluded by 6pm. A long, very productive day I believe. It was incredibly helpful to sit down with Mike and Greg a second time. Today really helped solidify so much of this information, and I feel like I have come a long way since the beginning of the project. Each day presents learning opportunities, and I am enjoying every minute of it. Without going into too much detail since I'm quite tired, I'll simply say that I believe whole heartedly that this is where I am meant to be, and a project that I am meant to be working on.

At one point during the day, we chatted about why this information is not more public. It was an incredibly interesting topic, which oddly turned to a conversation about social media. We talked about how our nation is changing, specifically how our attention spans are shortened. For having obessively studied social media and how it's changing how we get our information, it was rather refreshing to have someone else bring it up in conversation!

I'm back at the hotel now, scanning in copies of Mike's articles and some photos he's loaned me. We'll return them to him tomorrow, and then hit the road early. I had hoped to capture footage of the building where the U.S. Department of State resides, the White House and other DC landmarks. However, I tentatively have plans to return to DC in December for another interview. At that time, I could capture more b roll.

There is much work to be done. This weekend feels like a great step forward, which is absolutely delightful. I'm finally over being sick, and finally moving forward full speed ahead again. AND, I feel like the film is taking shape in my head and I'm so anxious to edit it together.

It shall be done!

Ready for Sleep!

What a long, delightfully exhausting day.

Woke up around 4:15 and finally left Raleigh at about 6am. Arrived in DC safely and started filming at Arlington National Cemetery. Then filmed the Vietnam War Memorial and other key landmarks. Finally back to the hotel around 6pm, and completely wiped out. Relaxing just a bit before preparing for tomorrow's interviews and then crashing early tonight. Weather wasn't great, but it held out beautifully. The fall leaves against the darkness of the trees was stunning. A great day for taking still photos. I can't wait to review the footage.

Also, if you care to follow us on the trip, I'll be texting updates here: www.twitter.com\cammicam! I can also upload photos taken with my cell phone to my Facebook profile, so if you're on there friend me and view photos I upload instantly! Here are a few nevertheless!

Kennedy Center



Washington Monument


I made blueberries on Thursday so we could have something yummy for breakfast. We gave two to ladies at a ticket booth later that day, and they were so happy!

15 Minutes Goes a Long Way

So, I've been blogging here and sending updates via Twitter to my Facebook page. Social media is absolutely impacting how this film is made, and it is fascinating to experience. I have been sending out messages about this project at various times to (1) help me record the process and (2) share where we are with those that want to know more about it.

If you're not familiar with it, Twitter is a website where you can send out short messages. I've started following a lot of people I may never have met in real life, one of which is Leandra Ganko (@tlkativ) in Durham, N.C. Yesterday was Veteran's day and she posted a message about her father who served in Vietnam that said, "Dad, thanks for risking your life flying over hostile territories to save the lives of our soldiers on the ground in Vietnam. I love you."


So, I sent her a message (Twitter limits you to 140 characters), asking her if her dad new the Montagnards, and told her about the project. She told her dad. Her dad told her to tell me to call Col. John Hope who works with the River Rats. I called him over lunch today. He told me to speak to Mike Benge. He also shared that they were having an event on the 18th in the DC area, where a lot of folks would get together and tell war stories. In 15 hours, two new friends were made and in 15 minutes I learned a quick overview of the amazing work the River Rats are doing. And, let me tell you, it's heart warming.

The River Rats, officially known as the Red River Valley Fighter Pilots, were formed to help the families of those who served (like with education scholarships). Their sister organization, the Air Warrior Courage Foundation, also does equally amazing things for the families of vets. It sounds like a great group, one I'd like to learn more about once we get things in gear with this film.

Also in relation to social media, two old friends from high school connected with me on Facebook this week. One of them is a filmmaker, who just shared a music video he made. Another is a talent manager in the entertainment industry, managing an artist he thinks might have something to offer a future project.

Social media is definitely impacting the way this film is made, and while some people still aren't convinced it's worth their time, I can easily see how it's going to make this film impact people's lives. The folks I have met through this project continue to amaze me, and I hope I can do for them what they are doing for this project.

My time before the trip to DC is dwindling, and as I grow closer to our oh-dark-thirty departure, I get more and more excited. My sister has agreed to join me on the trip, which has put me at ease greatly. On Friday we'll capture footage in the city and on Saturday I'll sit down with Mike Benge and Greg Stock again to talk with them on camera.

Should the weather hold out for us, it promises to be a memorable weekend in my life and in the life of this project. We are moving ahead in excellence, and I am eager to start post-production once we conclude our filming.

Final Plans Taking Shape

Well, final plans are coming together for my trip. I'm getting lots of contacts and information on where to go and what to do while I'm there. This will be a short trip, but I plan on squeezing as much out of it as I possibly can.

My friends laughingly call me a Planner, but I am flexible when things don't go according to plan. Perhaps, instead, I am a Preparer. Better to be prepared with all of the information than not when the opportunities arrive, I believe.

Anywhooo, I leave at 0-dark-thirty on Friday morning and have a full weekend of hustle and bustle when I arrive in VA/DC. Much to do, little time to do it. Maximum efficiency is a must for this trip. But I also have to remember to be kind to myself so I don't have a relapse...I think if I get sick one more time, I will not handle it with any patience.

Greg and Mike and I are all preparing for our interviews, a fact I am most excited about.

A Weekend in D.C.

Next Friday I leave for D.C., and I am so excited. I love to travel, especially when it is to interview people like Mike Benge and Greg Stock. Mike and Greg are top notch folks, very helpful in my quest for the truth about the Montagnard plight.

My travel and interview plans are coming together, and I have just booked my hotel room. I am able to leave town next weekend with many thanks to the help of my sister and brother in law who have offered to watch my pitt-lab mix Louie. He's more than a handful, and it's great to know that he'll be in very capable hands. This dog has such strength, and he can knock you over in a heartbeat. He has taught me a great deal about life.

With Louie in good hands, I'll be leaving for D.C. on Friday. After I check in, I'll head into the city to capture footage of the city and related memorials. On Saturday, I'll head over to meet Mike and Greg for our second interviews. I feel like I have learned an incredible amount since I first met them this summer. In the days leading up to our interview, I have been reading and studying as much as possible so that I'm better prepared. The filmmaker in me recognizes that it is imperative you make the most of your time with together so you can interview effectively. Not only do you want to build a trusting relationship with the people you interview, you also recognize that time is money--and the more time you spend, the more money it takes to make the film (and so on). So, with each interview, I have felt a great sense of pressure to make the most of each of them. I'm actually getting a bit of a ritual down now as well.

This project has been so...unbelieveable. Seriously, I some times can't believe how lucky I am to be working on this project. I care so much about making this film, each of the people that I have met because of it, and sharing these stories with others. Each interviewee has taught me so much about dignity, hope, strength, honor, pride, trust and love. The entire process has helped me grow so much, and the subject matter is something I will care about for the rest of my life.

The other day I spoke with a fellow dreamer / filmmaker, and she told me about what was stopping her from telling the stories she had been gathering for 10 years. Like me, she was afraid that she wouldn't do them justice. She knew how important the project was, she had gotten so close to it, and she was terrified that she wouldn't be able to finish it in the manner it so rightfully deserved. It is a great weight for her to carry, it seemed.

But, that is the beauty of filmmaking. I absolutely adore the collaborative efforts it has afforded me in this short time. I have been able to meet and work with such talented, intelligent people and I know that this will grow from here. I am overjoyed at the support that has poured in from the least expected places; what a great joy.

Having just booked my hotel room, I am now off to continue preparing. There is much work to be done, many thoughts to capture, and lots of plans to continue making. I'm setting an agenda for myself so that I can accomplish all that must be done in such a short trip. Nonetheless, I can't wait to hit the road!

Photo credit: http://thewall-usa.com/wallpics/tommycanuhearme.htm.

Tomorrow

Tomorrow is an interesting word. It has spawned many famous lines. Tomorrow never dies. Tomorrow, tomorrow, there's always tomorrow. Let us not put off to tomorrow what can be done today. Yes, this word, this idea of tomorrow, it is very powerful.

It is a romantic idea, indeed. One that leads us to hope, and gives us permission to dream of what may come. No matter how bad the present may be, we can always think on tomorrow's delight. No matter how poorly we flagged or failed today, we can always try again when the sun rises again. We know that nothing is guaranteed today but we hope like hell that we'll live to see another day--one that is, perhaps, even better than today.

What is it about tomorrow that is so addicting and fascinating? Why do we hang our hats on something that has not yet arrived?

For our country, tomorrow will be a very big day, indeed. Spare me the smear campaigns and slanderous accusations in this election--both locally and nationally. The world is watching, so let us behave like the gentlemen our founding fathers thought we should become. Let us not accept what one person shouts as truth, but seek our own answers. Let us hold our elected officials accountable for their promises while they remain in office, since they will be the face that the world sees instead of our own. Let us be this passionate about politics for the next four years they are in office!

Let tomorrow not begin fading passion about politics. Tomorrow is almost here. Tomorrow is the day the world waits to learn of our decision. Tomorrow is the day that we--once again--learn who will serve as the leader of our nation. Let us be great once again.

Reading, Reading, Reading

While the accounts I have been reading include very heavy subject matter, I have delighted in my reading. The accounts have hardships and moments of humor in them, and above all else they show the human condition. Last night I especially enjoyed rereading the account about Mike Benge's time as a POW in Vietnam.

Mike Benge, a man we interviewed this summer, was "an AID technician captured in the South" as it is described in the book Strange Ground by Harry Maurer. He describes the night of the Tet offensive, and how he went out the check on things the next morning. He describes the moments when he got captured:

It was ironic: The squad I got captured by was a North Vietnamese propaganda squad. And their leader--you have to imagine a North Vietnamese who really didn't have command of English trying to say, "Surrender, we will give you humane and lenient treatment." This guy had a little Hitler mustache and his hair came down in his eyes about like Hitler. It was really weird, like out of a movie. Here's this little Hitlerite guy, telling me, "Sullendah, we give you humane and renient tleatment."

His story in this book is an intense one, and I recommend you pick up a copy to learn more. He is an excellent story teller, candid and humorous. I enjoy the details he includes in his stories, like drinking coffee royals with Dr. Hickey to celebrate at his Tet party:

The Chinese firecrackers were going off, the tracers were flying. About that time an 81mm mortar landed out in front of my house. I said, "Oh, shit, Gerry, I think this is the real thing."

We were there all night long, drinking coffee royals, keeping everybody awake. Between the adrenaline of thinking you're going to get overrun and the coffee royals, we were pretty goddamn high. Nobody knew what the hell was going on.

If you want to read more about Mike Benge, here are some things I found online:

• POW Network
  http://www.pownetwork.org/bios/b/b600.htm
  
  
• The POWs We Left Behind
  http://www.frontpagemag.com/Articles/Read.aspx?GUID=905C6EEE-8142-4A9F-B348-1C03517E3797
  
  
• Not Saluting Jane Fonda
  http://www.worldnetdaily.com/news/article.asp?ARTICLE_ID=15757
  
  
• Shame on Jane
  http://www.1stcavmedic.com/shame_on_jane.htm

Mike and I are set for a second interview in a few weeks and I'm really looking forward to it. I have been learning so much about our film's subject matter, and exploring the three key points we want to make. It is a learning process, through and through.

Lunch Break Blogging: Recovering Again

Today will be my first full day back in the office, having had a cold since the middle of last week. I keep running into folks who ask, "Haven't you been sick for a while now?" I cannot tell you how absolutely exhausted I am with being sick and tired! I've been consuming mass amounts of orange juice in hopes of getting better quickly. Thankfully, today, I feel that I am heading in that direction.

Sick.

I'm sick. Again. Some how I now have a cold that has me by the throat. I've taken the day off of work to get better and plan on laying down all day. Must remember to take things slower. Every time I do try to be patient with the work, I grow ever more excited about it and want to keep working hard. It is a project that is very close to my heart, and I want to do it justice. I see how each step must be taken with the greatest integrity. It is of great importance.