I did it. I just signed up for NaNoWriMo. It's not just talk anymore. I actually have to write a 50,000 page novel in November. What on earth was I thinking?
The moment I clicked the button and made a commitment, all of my plot ideas, character outlines, etc. fled my brain. They're gone. I can only hope they'll come back over the coming weeks. Tentatively at first, I'm sure, but then with greater purpose. I really hope I won't be so distracted by travel and jet lag that I'm not able to bring them back. Because, really... I'm kind of freaking out right now.
But I did find this great site on How to Win at NaNoWriMo. I've done step 1, now I need to do something else for today until I can work on step 2. I sure hope my muse decides to make an appearance on November 1.
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In WIP Wednesday news, I'm plodding along with Trifocal (73% done at this writing). Still not sure if I'm going to finish in the next week, but I'll try.
Are you doing NaNoWriMo this year? What progress have you made with your current WIP (or WsIP)?
I've been curious about doing it, but I'm not sure yet.
ReplyDeleteAnyway, I wanted to let you know that I gave you an award on my blog.
I haven't - yet. I might next year. I just finished my MG and I'm diving into revisions, so I won't have time for NaNo (and schoolwork!). I've been meaning to take part in this for years, but I always seem to come up with a good excuse to postpone ;) Kick my bum into gear next year, will yah?
ReplyDeleteOh! And if you force yourself to write 1670 words a day, you'll be just fine ;)
You go, Alison! That is fantastic and brave. Good for you!!
ReplyDeleteGo you! You're an inspiration.
ReplyDeleteI've been toying with the idea of doing NaNo, but I think that it might be unwise to take my focus of PBs right now, especially since I'm shopping for an agent and I'd really like to get at least two more manuscripts submission-ready by the end of the year.
However, I'll be happy to cheer you on and can't wait to live vicariously.
Quinn: Thanks for the award!
ReplyDeleteTessa: I'm full of excuses, too, and I decided if I didn't bite the bullet and commit, I wouldn't actually do it. And I wrote over 3000 words on my WIP today, so I am capable of it. :)
Megan: Thank you!
Julie: I'm actually getting ready to query agents, too, which is one reason why I probably shouldn't be doing NaNo, BUT I've got a story in my head (bits and pieces came back today), and I need to let it out. I'll need the support, though!
I love that you explore the line between science and fiction! Awesome! I'm not doing Nano this year as I am focusing on my current WIP's. If you want a look at them you can visit my blog.
ReplyDeletehttp://a-pen-in-neverland.blogspot.com/p/books.html
I bet you have tons of fun with all the research you do for the science aspects of your writing. I just discovered bit of knowledge for one of my fictional WIP's that left me beyond excited. I was able to keep what I thought was fiction in my book and still have it be accurate. I love when that happens!
I play NaNoWriMo by my own rules. The first year I participated, I knew I wrote too slow to go for 50,000, so instead tried to just write something longer than my longest work to date (about 17,000 words). The next year, I tried to beat that new number.
ReplyDeleteIf 50,000 feels daunting, set a goal that fits you better. For instance, if I join up this year, I'll just count the words I add to my WIP. That's what I did last year, for my third time around. (I fell far short of my goal, but simply because I wrote it felt like a success.)
I'm sure your muse will re-emerge before November, but either way, don't let it get to you. And should you try to churn out a complete novel, I wish you the best of luck!
That's so brave good luck!
ReplyDeleteI've thought about doing it...I have a hundred and one reasons why not, but the truth is, I just can't seem to commit to it...
ReplyDeleteBest wishes for your success at it!
Go Alison! Good luck. I think the group peer-support aspect really helps propel some people. And if you've already found you're capable of 3000 words a day maybe you'll write a 90,000 word novel. ;-)
ReplyDeleteAngela: I'm glad you like it! It's fun exploring cool science facts and sharing them with kids, and the creative side makes it all the more worthwhile.
ReplyDeleteNate: I appreciate your encouragement. Playing by my own rules might be the best way to go. I figure even if I try, it's an accomplishment.
Kangaroobee: Thank you!
jbchicoine: that's why I committed, I'm always full of excuses. :)
Adina: Thanks! I have no intention of writing anything that long, but at least I now have hope that I will finish my WIP before I leave town.
NaNo is fun and insane, that's the point! Yes, it's ridiculous to write like that, but that's what makes it enjoyable -- especially if you're able to connect with a local group and join a few write-ins. It's wonderful to meet other crazy people :) You can do it!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Faith. Now that I'm getting close with my WIP, I'm feeling much more confident. I think a month off from writing will be good prep. :)
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