They say that 30% of the country is experiencing winter snow and/or cold that is record-breaking. I always say if it is gonna be cold and overcast give me some glimmering snow. I guess part of me loves snow. I grew up in a neighborhood full of hooligans and we were snow commandos. Sledding, snowball fights, snow forts and ice skating were all part of the average snow day. It almost always ended in hot chocolate and a dryer full of too many wet clothes. It is at the bottom of these sled hills (Folkert’s and Dine’s Hill)  that I recall looking up into the sky as snow fell and dreamed of movies. Star Wars, ET and Raiders of the Lost Ark –  these adventures are what excited me to the idea that a person could make a living in film.

In these later years the snow also brings a soft peace over everything. The holidays bring a quiet to the mind. This enables one to reflect on the past year and to reconnect with friends and family. I’m trying to pick some new footage for my reel and update my resume materials. We also have several development packages that are pulling together and with a strong wind may lift off in 2011.

I’m back to Las Vegas for two weeks in Jan. 2011 so I like that I’m right back into the mix. RESURRECTION director Jeff Ross contacted me and wants to rework a few scenes and add me into others. I’m excited because I’ve seen some of the rough work and it looks GOOD!

Collective Development Inc. http://www.cdiproductions.com is going to start opening itself up to commercial accounts. In the past we had done some big promotional for corporations like NonFerrous Founder’s Society, Toyota/JBL. Recently we had an opportunity to do a few smaller projects and enjoyed it. We’ve decided to open ourselves to interesting projects great and small. We’ve got a creative team and we enjoy working together so why not.

The year has not been without shortcomings, setbacks and the feeling that more always could have been done. As long as you learn, grow and grasp for something that inspires you – you are blessed. I know it has been a hard couple years for many people out there. Living in Michigan I hear the stories every week but I believe we can change things.As you close the chapter on 2010 smile and be happy in what memories you made this year. Those are valuable treasures that will exist for a long time. Do something good for someone this holiday season and feel that joy that comes with it.

DJ

So Dec. 1st was the first snow of the year. As the year comes to a close I’m trying to turn some business around, finish some business and prep new business. Again after a year of living a good amount in RV’s and hotel rooms it is nice to be back home in Lansing, Michigan with friends and family. I’ve had opportunities to catch up with several loved ones and recharge for 2011. I’ve very excited about several of the projects finished in 2010 that will be coming to all of you. OUTSIDE THE WIRE, BENJAMIN, RENOVATION, LOCKED IN A ROOM and we planted the 1st stakes on SILVER LAKE.

It has been pointed out that one of my character flaws is my trusting in other people. I often see the best in people and try to nurture that behavior. I’ve had the unfortunate opportunity to do business (If you call it that) with some people who build their life around a “hustle” to get by. Short term versus long-term as the hustle always gets exposed. Where talent exists, a fair and honest living should be able to grow and take hold. But it is not always that easy. I hear all the hardship stories from my friends and I too have experienced many. I guess the creative endeavors as a business is a fairly new trade. Many artists of old were not given value  until their death. That has slowly turned itself around as business folk have realized how to market art to the masses. The goal is a long-term partnership that achieves a balance of business and art.

I have a few business people who have just become a pain because of unrealistic goals, lack of follow through and just straight up dishonesty. It is sad because these set backs cause major issues to many people. The thing is that you would think that greed would keep certain people on the level. Again long-term versus short-term grab and run tactics. The goal is again long-term partnerships.

Long-term friendships and business relationships bring a joy that cannot be bought only earned. It is a satisfaction for both parties that at the winter of their lives they can look back and be happy at what they achieved together. I’ve had my share of being taking advantage of and I wonder sometimes if those people feel proud in their actions. One such individual has a five-year old son. What is he passing down in his day-to-day life lessons?

These last couple years have been very tough for people and I commonly hear the excuse that the economy is causing all this but in actuality bad business got us in this situation. Also at the end of the day WE make decisions on doing the right thing or the wrong thing. I think most of those who read my blog are “do the right” people but I can always hope that one person tempted to take the easy road chooses not to.

I can only live how I know and that is to be me and to try to be the best me I can. So as you prepare for your winter holiday(s) evaluate your own actions and be an inspiration to those around you.

Happy Saturday!

DJ