Still... I wrote. Only 1007 words -- I wanted more, but ran out of time. I'll try for more later today.
In the meantime, my current total word count for JaNo is:
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Writing feels GOOD!
I finally managed to squeak in some writing time this morning -- and it felt GREAT!! I worked on "Queen and Assassin", still frustrating myself with the overabundance of dialogue and lack of narrative, but oddly incapable of changing it as I wrote despite my awareness of the lack.
Still... I wrote. Only 1007 words -- I wanted more, but ran out of time. I'll try for more later today.
In the meantime, my current total word count for JaNo is:
Still... I wrote. Only 1007 words -- I wanted more, but ran out of time. I'll try for more later today.
In the meantime, my current total word count for JaNo is:
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Was I Supposed to Write a Novel This Month?
The hall monitor caught me goofing off in the teacher's lounge. Actually, it was at the vet's office where I had to take my diabetic cat because, to use the medical terminology, he is "out of whack." Blood sugar too high. If only my word count were as high as my cat's blood sugar.
Was I supposed to write a novel this month? Uh oh. I seem to have fallen off the wagon and landed in a puddle.
Lots of personal stuff this month, but isn't that true of everyone? Writing should have been an escape from that, but somehow that didn't happen. Instead, the farther I fell behind in my goals, the more desperate I became. The more I pressured myself, the less I could do. I've got five chapters written and I've stalled.
The good news is that while writing my chapters, I laughed. (And I also burned a couple thousand calories on the treadmill.)
I earned some gold stars but there are too many voids. The interesting thing is that pattern of gold stars. It tells me how I work -- and how I don't work. When I get gold stars, I get them every day. When I don't get them, a whole week can pass by. That means I either work every day -- or I don't work at all. That kind of self-truth is pretty ugly but what it says is don't lose momentum. Keep going!
I need to forgive myself for failing to meet my own expectations, let it go, and get back to writing. This little check-in is a good thing (thanks, Marianne), because it allows me to adjust my goals.
What's done (or undone) is undone. But there is tomorrow to do more and to bring fresh hope to my book. So, my goal for the rest of the month (actually, I'll have to stop January 30) is to write 18,000 words.
Did I just write that? Can I erase it? Too many zeroes in that number.
Here I go again -- starting to back down. But, oh yes I can do it. I grant myself a fresh start. And a fresh big fat number. All I have to do is Write Every Day.
Anne AKA smellshorsey, who appears to have give up but has not.
Was I supposed to write a novel this month? Uh oh. I seem to have fallen off the wagon and landed in a puddle.
Lots of personal stuff this month, but isn't that true of everyone? Writing should have been an escape from that, but somehow that didn't happen. Instead, the farther I fell behind in my goals, the more desperate I became. The more I pressured myself, the less I could do. I've got five chapters written and I've stalled.
The good news is that while writing my chapters, I laughed. (And I also burned a couple thousand calories on the treadmill.)
I earned some gold stars but there are too many voids. The interesting thing is that pattern of gold stars. It tells me how I work -- and how I don't work. When I get gold stars, I get them every day. When I don't get them, a whole week can pass by. That means I either work every day -- or I don't work at all. That kind of self-truth is pretty ugly but what it says is don't lose momentum. Keep going!
I need to forgive myself for failing to meet my own expectations, let it go, and get back to writing. This little check-in is a good thing (thanks, Marianne), because it allows me to adjust my goals.
What's done (or undone) is undone. But there is tomorrow to do more and to bring fresh hope to my book. So, my goal for the rest of the month (actually, I'll have to stop January 30) is to write 18,000 words.
Did I just write that? Can I erase it? Too many zeroes in that number.
Here I go again -- starting to back down. But, oh yes I can do it. I grant myself a fresh start. And a fresh big fat number. All I have to do is Write Every Day.
Anne AKA smellshorsey, who appears to have give up but has not.
Halfway
I suspect that there are a lot of words that will eventually be edited out when I rewrite Tango at Midnight, but by last night I was just over halfway to the 50,000-word mark. I'm tickled! I really wondered if I'd be able to pull this story out of my head this month but now that I've begun to write it is coming easily. No major roadblocks, writing-wise, although I do need to mull over one more plot complication. I can't let this couple find happiness too smoothly, can I?
Oh! Actual word count: 26, 201
Oh! Actual word count: 26, 201
Roll Call!
We are starting week three of JaNoWriMo and some folks are conspicuously missing, so I'm going to nag :-)
I warned you, didn't I?
Here are the folks I show as participants and the last time the posted a word count or progress information:
If you haven't posted a word count, or at least a progress report of some kind since 1/13 -- the hall monitor is coming to get you. Just saying.
We can't support you if you don't let us know how you're doing. That's why we're here... in a group... on a blog. Right? Rah-Rah!!!
So, c'mon folks... let us know how you're doing.
I warned you, didn't I?
Here are the folks I show as participants and the last time the posted a word count or progress information:
edeevee - 1/16
Keri Mikulski - 1/17
Jen of A2eatwrite - 1/17
Joanie - 1/15
Tiffany - 1/15
groovyoldlady - 1/12
Amy - 1/16
Charity - (videos, but no WC)
Ceri Hebert - 1/18
Karen - 1/7
Melissa - (excused *G*)
Kealie Shay - (MIA)
Sarita Leone - 1/17
Marianne Arkins - 1/18
smellshorsey - 1/7
If you haven't posted a word count, or at least a progress report of some kind since 1/13 -- the hall monitor is coming to get you. Just saying.
We can't support you if you don't let us know how you're doing. That's why we're here... in a group... on a blog. Right? Rah-Rah!!!
So, c'mon folks... let us know how you're doing.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Weekend Check-In
Geoff and his friends are NOT BEHAVING. I am not pleased at some of the things that came off my fingertips this week, so Geoff has to go sit in the corner. Beginning tomorrow, I'm back at work on "Queen and Assassin". That'll teach my characters to think they have any say in the story.
Harrumph.
So, my pitiful total word count is currently:
Harrumph.
So, my pitiful total word count is currently:
A Day Late
Not that there's much to report. I haven't put out more than 1200 words since the 14th. I got slammed with a horrible cold and it's all I can do to speak coherently, never mind write anything that makes sense. I tried going into work on Friday, didn't make it much past 9am and tried again yesterday but called it quits at 1pm. Not great.
Anyway, I have the next two days off. I'm going to try to get lots done. I'm shocked that we're past the halfway mark for the month. EEEEKKKKK.
Everyone have a wonderful day!
Anyway, I have the next two days off. I'm going to try to get lots done. I'm shocked that we're past the halfway mark for the month. EEEEKKKKK.
Everyone have a wonderful day!
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Seventh Inning Stretch
The only thing missing from the above pic are crumpled up tissues scattered all over the floor. :)
Back to bed, but plugging along with PINKED and my new WIP.
Have a productive weekend, everyone!
Too Tired to Tango
I wish I could say I've got myself up to where I should be, word count-wise, by now but I can't. I'm giving it a good go but honestly I am pooped. Clearing snow, hauling firewood, caring for my husband...between all that I have been feeling physically, emotionally and mentally drained.
Still...I'm poking along. And you know what? The hour or two I manage to pull out of the day so I can work on Tango at Midnight is, easily, one of the best bits of the day. I feel more myself than almost any other time when I'm writing. Weird, isn't it? But true.
So, my JaNo novel is woefully behind but it is truly bolstering me when I need it most.
Oh? Word count? 14,973...and each word feels like a step toward normalcy in what is a very unusual time for us.
Happy Saturday!
Still...I'm poking along. And you know what? The hour or two I manage to pull out of the day so I can work on Tango at Midnight is, easily, one of the best bits of the day. I feel more myself than almost any other time when I'm writing. Weird, isn't it? But true.
So, my JaNo novel is woefully behind but it is truly bolstering me when I need it most.
Oh? Word count? 14,973...and each word feels like a step toward normalcy in what is a very unusual time for us.
Happy Saturday!
Saturday check-in
I'm sort of middle-mired myself, but then my characters pull me in a new direction. The protag and her mentor are about to have a face-off that I thought was going to happen much later in the story, but they're already getting on each other's nerves. Just as well - they were both becoming too settled in their routines.
I'm still on target with the word count:
I really think it helps that the rest of my life is kind of out of control and this is a major outlet for me right now.
I'm still on target with the word count:
I really think it helps that the rest of my life is kind of out of control and this is a major outlet for me right now.
Friday, January 16, 2009
This Just In: Slackery Slacker Slacks!
I know. I was shocked too ;^/
After picking up speed last week, I only managed a little over a thousand words for this whole week. On top of that I failed in my commenting duties too. And you don't want to see the condition of my hall floor. I'm blaming it on the cold.
And promising to start trying anew ... tomorrow.
After picking up speed last week, I only managed a little over a thousand words for this whole week. On top of that I failed in my commenting duties too. And you don't want to see the condition of my hall floor. I'm blaming it on the cold.
And promising to start trying anew ... tomorrow.
Mired In The Middle
I have been very quiet here because I've been posting NEGATIVE word counts, and, frankly, that's just embarrassing.
Part of the problem is that I'm finishing a book, so I've already got a nicely put-together first half, and as I'm writing the second half, I'm having to go back and, you know, DELETE things. The middle has been very bloated and a bit unfocused (so when you read a tightly written, focused, exciting, book middle, write a note and thank the author profusely...she probably worked very hard to make it that way), which makes it tough to move forward in the last third, but I've been recombining and paring down scenes for the most impact and the writing is stronger for it. The book is stronger for it. The characters are stronger for it. The STORY is stronger for it.
So I have something like 46,446 words to make the JaNo count, which turns out to be 2,903 words/day. Not impossible, but improbable. Though only about 20,000 of that is the current story. I tend to blow through the opening chapters in a new story, so if I can FINISH this one, I might have a chance.
But I wouldn't go to Vegas on those odds.
Of course, after yesterday's word count of -247, there's nowhere to go but up, right?
Part of the problem is that I'm finishing a book, so I've already got a nicely put-together first half, and as I'm writing the second half, I'm having to go back and, you know, DELETE things. The middle has been very bloated and a bit unfocused (so when you read a tightly written, focused, exciting, book middle, write a note and thank the author profusely...she probably worked very hard to make it that way), which makes it tough to move forward in the last third, but I've been recombining and paring down scenes for the most impact and the writing is stronger for it. The book is stronger for it. The characters are stronger for it. The STORY is stronger for it.
So I have something like 46,446 words to make the JaNo count, which turns out to be 2,903 words/day. Not impossible, but improbable. Though only about 20,000 of that is the current story. I tend to blow through the opening chapters in a new story, so if I can FINISH this one, I might have a chance.
But I wouldn't go to Vegas on those odds.
Of course, after yesterday's word count of -247, there's nowhere to go but up, right?
Learning Quirks
I had an epiphany yesterday. I've really been struggling with "A Jewel for Geoff" and I couldn't figure out why. I have the basic story in my head. I know the ending. I have a couple dozen scene ideas. I did all the pre-work. So why is getting the words down so difficult?
Two days ago, I cranked out more than 1,000 words on the novel I just submitted. Just a quick scene addition that slid fluidly into place with no real need to edit elsewhere (thankfully), but that added the reason for another--very necessary--scene to have happened. It was easy. I did it in a matter of minutes. It has drama and emotion and a little goofiness, and it rolled off my fingers.
So, why was that so easy, and writing AJFG worse than pulling teeth?
Because I knew those characters inside and out. Knew them, their motivation, their thoughts.
Because, despite having written about Geoff in "One Love for Liv", I didn't really get to know him. I knew he was a stuffed shirt with a good heart, but not much more than that.
Today, I'm writing miscellaneous scenes with Geoff, something I should have done before I started. I like to write scenes with my characters doing a day-to-day task (for instance, in the novel I submitted, I wrote a scene with my heroine vacuuming the floor of her new apartment, and in another WIP, I wrote a scene with my heroine taking a shower and getting dressed for work) Sometimes they get used in the actual work (the shower scene did) and sometimes they don't (the vacuuming scene didn't). But they all have the power to show me small things about my characters. No one showers the same, or even vacuums the same. No one grocery shops the same, washes the car, folds the laundry, or grooms the dog the same. We all have quirks.
So, now I'm off to write about Geoff doing... something. I think I'll put him in his condo, but I'm not sure what I'll have him do. He's quite fastidious, but I don't imagine he does his own cleaning. OTOH, I picture him as being embarrassed at having the place a mess for the maid, and may clean up before she arrives.
Hmmm.... See -- already learned something new.
Two days ago, I cranked out more than 1,000 words on the novel I just submitted. Just a quick scene addition that slid fluidly into place with no real need to edit elsewhere (thankfully), but that added the reason for another--very necessary--scene to have happened. It was easy. I did it in a matter of minutes. It has drama and emotion and a little goofiness, and it rolled off my fingers.
So, why was that so easy, and writing AJFG worse than pulling teeth?
Because I knew those characters inside and out. Knew them, their motivation, their thoughts.
Because, despite having written about Geoff in "One Love for Liv", I didn't really get to know him. I knew he was a stuffed shirt with a good heart, but not much more than that.
Today, I'm writing miscellaneous scenes with Geoff, something I should have done before I started. I like to write scenes with my characters doing a day-to-day task (for instance, in the novel I submitted, I wrote a scene with my heroine vacuuming the floor of her new apartment, and in another WIP, I wrote a scene with my heroine taking a shower and getting dressed for work) Sometimes they get used in the actual work (the shower scene did) and sometimes they don't (the vacuuming scene didn't). But they all have the power to show me small things about my characters. No one showers the same, or even vacuums the same. No one grocery shops the same, washes the car, folds the laundry, or grooms the dog the same. We all have quirks.
So, now I'm off to write about Geoff doing... something. I think I'll put him in his condo, but I'm not sure what I'll have him do. He's quite fastidious, but I don't imagine he does his own cleaning. OTOH, I picture him as being embarrassed at having the place a mess for the maid, and may clean up before she arrives.
Hmmm.... See -- already learned something new.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
new day, new information
My daughter is starting a college short story course this week. Her first assignment was "what is a good story." She asked me to tell her. While I could give her my ideas right off the top of my head, what for me constitutes a good story, that wasn't exactly what the I believe her professor planned. So, I put it back to her. I began interviewing her, made her think about stories and novels I knew she liked, and had her come up with her own list of what makes a good story in her reader's world. I wasn't surprised that what she ultimately came up with was nearly identical with what I felt myself. She's grown up in my world, after all, so of course our ideas would mirror each other. But more importantly, her answers were universal, because a good story is a good story because it has all the elements reader look for in a timeless work--regardless of the genre.
Here's her list. For her, a good story--
Here's her list. For her, a good story--
- ends in an action that keeps the characters alive, and keeps her thinking about what likely happened after she's run out of pages and closed the back cover.
- breaths life to everything relating to the work, and keeps a reader believing long afterward.
- offers a full sensory experience, with all five senses addressed throughout each scene.
- offers a valid conflict, with characters relatable on some level to the reader.
- shows change in the character, as no one can go through any level of conflict without changing in some way.
- gives a beginning that hooks a reader, a middle that keeps the story going at a strong pace, and an ending that not only gives climax, but offers satisfaction and believability. The ending doesn’t have to be “happily ever after” but it must show the characters acting true to the way the writer has portrayed them throughout the story.
Call me an indulgent mom, or a writer who wants to share market information with her peers. But most importantly, I am a happy writer who sees that even a young college student can see the things I try to put into each of my works, and looks for those same things in the works of others. The only thing I would add is:
7. Provides surprise(s) for the reader.
Other than that, I'm running slow but steady with my JaNo project, having to fit in work that will hopefully bring paychecks soon, and help me pay my heating bill. But since it's freezing cold outside, I don't want to go anywhere, and that always helps me write. Especially when I can keep my warm laptop on my lap to fight the chill. Unless the cat wants my lap instead, of course.
Worse. Day. Ever.
Ever had one of those days when every word feels like a furball hacked up and you knew you'd eventually toss the whole day's work because it sucked so much? Usually I can get my words in the early morning - before my son gets up and the day starts filing with distractions. But it didn't happen. The words were slow, I was tired. So I only got in 600 words. Then another 400 while my son did homework after school and another 600 before going to sleep. My mind doesn't really work after 7:00 pm so the evening words were particularly horrible.
On the plus side. I got back on track this morning and completed my words early - yea!
On the plus side. I got back on track this morning and completed my words early - yea!
Sorry to indulge in the whinefest.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Are We Hunting Wabbits?
It's so vewy, vewy quiet.... we must be.
So, I finally set my butt down today and wrote. Not on either of my JaNo projects, but I added a scene to my romance/mystery that I think helps make something that happens more reasonable.
The reason I opted to work on that was because it's ready for submission. So, I'll be double-checking the query and synopsis (ugh) and sending that sucker off soon. Probably tomorrow.
And then, I'll work on my JaNo stuff.
My current monthly (new word) word count is:
Only 42,704 to go!!! And, um... 16 days. So that would be (:::pulls out fingers:::)...2669 words a day.
Not totally undo-able.
How are YOU doing?
So, I finally set my butt down today and wrote. Not on either of my JaNo projects, but I added a scene to my romance/mystery that I think helps make something that happens more reasonable.
The reason I opted to work on that was because it's ready for submission. So, I'll be double-checking the query and synopsis (ugh) and sending that sucker off soon. Probably tomorrow.
And then, I'll work on my JaNo stuff.
My current monthly (new word) word count is:
Only 42,704 to go!!! And, um... 16 days. So that would be (:::pulls out fingers:::)...2669 words a day.
Not totally undo-able.
How are YOU doing?
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Checkin In
I know it's only Tuesday, but I thought I'd check in because it's been so quiet here lately!
I've been a bit distracted by sick kids, but I've managed to get a few thousand words a day out. That's a good thing. The more words the better chance this wip will survive to see the first round of edits.
My current overall word count is.....
Not too scuzzy.
Hope everyone is having a good week. I hope all this quiet means that everyone is writing writing writing!
I've been a bit distracted by sick kids, but I've managed to get a few thousand words a day out. That's a good thing. The more words the better chance this wip will survive to see the first round of edits.
My current overall word count is.....
Not too scuzzy.
Hope everyone is having a good week. I hope all this quiet means that everyone is writing writing writing!
Monday, January 12, 2009
Coming Soon: Actual Words
OK. A list to dazzle you (or not).
Good news:
The funerals are past.
The Christmas stuff is put away.
The hip is healed up (halleluiah!).
The hubby is well now and back to his regular work schedule.
I have a great idea for killing off a character rather unexpectedly. I'm thinking Jason's mom...That would leave him as a suddenly orphaned teen. Will the large, goat owning, homeschooling family next door take him in? Or will he be consigned as a ward of the State?
Bad news:
My computer (along with my w.i.p.s and my brain cells) is in the shop. I am using my in-laws' computer to check email and waste time on the internet.
I am sick with a nasty stomach bug. (Groovy is longing for "normal"!)
My floor is disgustingly dirty.
I suck at writing by hand.
**********************
So here's the plan: Get well, get the computer back, kill Jason's mom and report my meager word count, vacuum and mop.
In the meantime, I'm off to handwrite (ugh!) a Valentine skit and come up with a couple of kids' songs for our 4-H group.
**************
You all are doing AWESOME, so KEEP WRITING!!!!
Good news:
The funerals are past.
The Christmas stuff is put away.
The hip is healed up (halleluiah!).
The hubby is well now and back to his regular work schedule.
I have a great idea for killing off a character rather unexpectedly. I'm thinking Jason's mom...That would leave him as a suddenly orphaned teen. Will the large, goat owning, homeschooling family next door take him in? Or will he be consigned as a ward of the State?
Bad news:
My computer (along with my w.i.p.s and my brain cells) is in the shop. I am using my in-laws' computer to check email and waste time on the internet.
I am sick with a nasty stomach bug. (Groovy is longing for "normal"!)
My floor is disgustingly dirty.
I suck at writing by hand.
**********************
So here's the plan: Get well, get the computer back, kill Jason's mom and report my meager word count, vacuum and mop.
In the meantime, I'm off to handwrite (ugh!) a Valentine skit and come up with a couple of kids' songs for our 4-H group.
**************
You all are doing AWESOME, so KEEP WRITING!!!!
Puny Wordcount
Yesterday was pretty much a loss. I managed to get out a whoppin' 76 words. It's a little funny. But at least it was something. 76 more words than I had before. I'll admit that I slept til nearly 10am. We didn't get home until 3am, sans stepdaughter's luggage. We don't have this airport pickup thing down pat yet and she didn't get her bag off the baggage carousel and before we even knew that her flight arrived (really early) the unclaimed bags were removed. We couldn't find anyone to help us get the bag so we left without it. Road conditions were horrible all the way home, heavy snow the entire drive. Thank God for my mother's Subaru.
I get to go back down to Boston to get the bag on Thursday.
I'm taking a bus. I'm a real wimp when it comes to city driving, and no offense to anyone from Massachusetts, but Mass drivers are nuts.
Back to writing. Already I have a few hundred words. I'll have to make up for yesterday somehow.
I get to go back down to Boston to get the bag on Thursday.
I'm taking a bus. I'm a real wimp when it comes to city driving, and no offense to anyone from Massachusetts, but Mass drivers are nuts.
Back to writing. Already I have a few hundred words. I'll have to make up for yesterday somehow.
Flailing
I got sick and writing screeched to a halt. I managed a few more words, but not much. I definitely overdid the late nights and cannot do that anymore. Of course, that's my only real free time to write so my expectations for January have been dashed to say the least.
And now, a four book continuity that I was asked to write with three other authors needs to be brainstormed. And since that one is sold with a June deadline, the JaNoWriMo has to take a back seat until we get our ideas to the editor.
And now, a four book continuity that I was asked to write with three other authors needs to be brainstormed. And since that one is sold with a June deadline, the JaNoWriMo has to take a back seat until we get our ideas to the editor.
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Inspiration in two minutes
Just in case you need a little inspiration this weekend:
Failure is not an option.
Failure is not an option.
I'm late...
but at least I'm here! Yay!! I'm thrilled to be able to say I've finally begun my JaNo novel. Yes, at 3:30 am I sat down with my laptop and began to write. It feels fabulous!
I'm not going to give the long version here about how my life has been on hold these past...goodness, it's over a month now. Wow, I didn't realize it had been so long! Anyhow, I'm just going to say that due to a family illness I've been mostly away from my real life--kind of dealing with real life, if that makes any sense. I've missed being at my desk, doing "normal" things like having my brows waxed, doing laundry or walking out to collect the mail, but mostly I've missed writing. It's true. I can deal with the rest of it but not writing? That's been tough.
But this morning I began writing my January novel, so I have high hopes of life returning to some semblance of normal. It may take time, but at least I've got a story churning in my head, characters talking and plot twists developing so the wait will be easier to bear.
Oh? The title? Tentatively, it's called Tango at Midnight but that'll probably change. And my word count? I've got a lot of catching up to do but I've got 3,739 words so far.
Happy Saturday, everyone!
I'm not going to give the long version here about how my life has been on hold these past...goodness, it's over a month now. Wow, I didn't realize it had been so long! Anyhow, I'm just going to say that due to a family illness I've been mostly away from my real life--kind of dealing with real life, if that makes any sense. I've missed being at my desk, doing "normal" things like having my brows waxed, doing laundry or walking out to collect the mail, but mostly I've missed writing. It's true. I can deal with the rest of it but not writing? That's been tough.
But this morning I began writing my January novel, so I have high hopes of life returning to some semblance of normal. It may take time, but at least I've got a story churning in my head, characters talking and plot twists developing so the wait will be easier to bear.
Oh? The title? Tentatively, it's called Tango at Midnight but that'll probably change. And my word count? I've got a lot of catching up to do but I've got 3,739 words so far.
Happy Saturday, everyone!
accountability
Since today is really accountability day for the week, I'll do my confessing now. As you're probably already sick of hearing (I think this is the third time I've said it in this blog) I started handwriting my daily work, typing it in the next day as my review. But since I kept editing down as I went, my word count has been "little" on an average basis, and my Type A'dness couldn't take it anymore. So, for the past two days my hands went back to the keyboard and I just let the words go. A lot won't be keepers, but it made me get to about 7000 words for the week at this point. I've written a little over 1000 this morning--now I'm going to go have coffee with a friend, and hopefully I'll be so jazzed when I get back that I can write at least 2000 more!
That's my goal, anyway.
But the real reason I posted today is to tell everyone about the best tool I have in my writing arsenal. That tool is really a person--my accountability partner. I live in Oklahoma, she lives in South Carolina, and we met while taking an online class. We've never met face-to-face, but we "talk" every day through email, and I could not accomplish half of what I do every day if she wasn't around for me to toss out ideas to, vent about things I'm irritated about, and share my joy when something goes right. In fact, I wouldn't be in this group without her, as she was the one who found out about JaNo and gave me the means of signing in. Thanks again, Anne!
So, if you want your writing life to improve, I recommend finding an accountability partner of your own. While this JaNo blog helps us this month, a regular partner will help you all the days after JaNo ends.
But you can't have mine! Anne is already taken!
That's my goal, anyway.
But the real reason I posted today is to tell everyone about the best tool I have in my writing arsenal. That tool is really a person--my accountability partner. I live in Oklahoma, she lives in South Carolina, and we met while taking an online class. We've never met face-to-face, but we "talk" every day through email, and I could not accomplish half of what I do every day if she wasn't around for me to toss out ideas to, vent about things I'm irritated about, and share my joy when something goes right. In fact, I wouldn't be in this group without her, as she was the one who found out about JaNo and gave me the means of signing in. Thanks again, Anne!
So, if you want your writing life to improve, I recommend finding an accountability partner of your own. While this JaNo blog helps us this month, a regular partner will help you all the days after JaNo ends.
But you can't have mine! Anne is already taken!
SCREECH..
My JaNoWriMo WIP screeched to a stop on Thursday. Why? My agent sent exciting revisions for an existing WIP, titled PINKED. So, on day ten of JaNoWriMo, I'm switching gears and digging back into PINKED. I wish I could work on two novels at once, but I can't. I can't even work on a magazine article and a novel at the same time. In fact, sometimes I can barely clean the house, parent, and teach one night a week when I'm in the middle of writing a scene. I think the two sides of my brain fight with each other or something. But, I'm wondering.. How many JaNoWriMos can work on two novels at once? And how do you do it? :)
Happy Saturday! :)
Saturday Check In
Since I won't be around later on in the day (I have a fabulous road trip to Logan Airport in Boston planned for this evening, during a snowstorm. Pray for me) I decided to log in my word count up to and including the measly amount I wrote yesterday (only 290).
Yes, I'm pleased. Nearly halfway there. I'm liking the story, I have ideas galore to carry me forth. I have to work today, but I'm bringing along my laptop and will type during my breaks (easier to do that rather than handwrite it and type it later.
I hope everyone has a wonderful and productive day!
Yes, I'm pleased. Nearly halfway there. I'm liking the story, I have ideas galore to carry me forth. I have to work today, but I'm bringing along my laptop and will type during my breaks (easier to do that rather than handwrite it and type it later.
I hope everyone has a wonderful and productive day!
Friday, January 9, 2009
end of the first full week
I'm not sure where all the time has gone. My work is moving forward, but I haven't yet made it into the full swing of things yet. The handwriting strategy I started with was satisfying on one level, but by yesterday my inner writing child wanted to see some real progress, so I went back to typing instead.
In between getting a new assignment from an editor I've been trying to get assignments from for a long time, getting a family member's medical problems resolved, helping my daughter prepare for another semester of college, and just getting over the blahs of gray skies and sinus headaches, I've steadily made JaNo progress on my story this week. So, while I can't say I've set the word count world on fire, I've kept the spark going, and that's the best news I can hope for and it keeps me motivated for next week.
Have a wonderfully productive weekend, everyone!
In between getting a new assignment from an editor I've been trying to get assignments from for a long time, getting a family member's medical problems resolved, helping my daughter prepare for another semester of college, and just getting over the blahs of gray skies and sinus headaches, I've steadily made JaNo progress on my story this week. So, while I can't say I've set the word count world on fire, I've kept the spark going, and that's the best news I can hope for and it keeps me motivated for next week.
Have a wonderfully productive weekend, everyone!
Saturday check-in on a Friday
Well, tomorrow is *supposed* to be check-in, but if this storm we're experiencing alleviates, I will be flying early to a memorial and family weekend, so it's unlikely I'll be able to stop by.
I haven't written today, and may not end up writing today due to a bunch of family issues, a headache, and just plain being exhausted (so exhausted, in fact, that I DUMPED my entire google reader - I just couldn't face catching up. I'm going to start fresh tomorrow).
My total so far is:
I'm happy with the progress, but am even happier with the direction things are going. My having those more abstract things to play with (the playlist, collage) seems to work well for me.
It's also been great to see how everyone else has approached this.
Happy writing, everyone. I'm not sure I'll be able to check in until Sunday or Monday. On the other hand, I may well be snowed in, so if we have power, I'll see you shortly!
I haven't written today, and may not end up writing today due to a bunch of family issues, a headache, and just plain being exhausted (so exhausted, in fact, that I DUMPED my entire google reader - I just couldn't face catching up. I'm going to start fresh tomorrow).
My total so far is:
I'm happy with the progress, but am even happier with the direction things are going. My having those more abstract things to play with (the playlist, collage) seems to work well for me.
It's also been great to see how everyone else has approached this.
Happy writing, everyone. I'm not sure I'll be able to check in until Sunday or Monday. On the other hand, I may well be snowed in, so if we have power, I'll see you shortly!
If You Build It They Will Come
I'm writing. Finally. My word count is a trifle compared to some of you. I've only got a net of about 4,300 words since January 1st. But, considering it took me a year to write the first 11,000 words in this sucker -- 4,300? I'll take it.
Dialogue vs Narration
I frustrated myself this morning whilst writing in "Queen and Assassin" -- the 1000+ words I wrote were mostly dialogue. Now, I am not a proponent of long paragraphs of narrative, or overly flowery descriptions. Since I skip long, unbroken paragraphs when I read, I try not to to write them.
On the other hand, dialogue alone is not always enough to carry the scene. And, though I didn't want to slow down, go back and put more narrative in, I really needed to because I was having a hard time picturing what was going on. It wasn't as though my four characters (five, if you count the animal) were standing in a circle, perfectly motionless, and talking. I needed to really SEE the scene.
Still, it was terribly difficult. I do find that I tend to lean one way or the other as I write a first draft, and then must go back to add whatever is missing. What about you? Do you lean toward more narrative or more dialogue in your first draft? What do you find more difficult to write?
With the addition of this morning's words, my total for JaNoWriMo is:
On the other hand, dialogue alone is not always enough to carry the scene. And, though I didn't want to slow down, go back and put more narrative in, I really needed to because I was having a hard time picturing what was going on. It wasn't as though my four characters (five, if you count the animal) were standing in a circle, perfectly motionless, and talking. I needed to really SEE the scene.
Still, it was terribly difficult. I do find that I tend to lean one way or the other as I write a first draft, and then must go back to add whatever is missing. What about you? Do you lean toward more narrative or more dialogue in your first draft? What do you find more difficult to write?
With the addition of this morning's words, my total for JaNoWriMo is:
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Another Writing Day Over
It wasn't quite as productive as yesterday. I wrote 2452 words today. Part of my problem was I was writing a heavy duty nookie scene and I had kids wandering back and forth (I really need that office). Sorry, but I just can't write a love scene freely when I have younguns around.
Still, not a bad word count. I'm not complaining. Got the nookie out of the way for now (this is a HQ Blaze type book, so there will be more nookie), but it's nearly 10pm and my hands have had it.
More tomorrow! Along with a total word count.
Still, not a bad word count. I'm not complaining. Got the nookie out of the way for now (this is a HQ Blaze type book, so there will be more nookie), but it's nearly 10pm and my hands have had it.
More tomorrow! Along with a total word count.
Word Count Is A Tricky Thing
Not only did I start late, but then I got sick. Bleah.
But that's not the biggest conundrum. My biggest conundrum right now is: from where do I start my word count? I'm starting in the middle of a book, so I figured pick a starting word count and build from there.
I did not count on the delete key figuring so prominently in my early efforts.
I'd originally posted a starting count of 26,461. Then I started writing, deleted 1,457 words and finished my day up only 413 words from the starting word count, but actually wrote 1,870 new words that day.
Well, they were all new words, so I think I'm going with that.
'cause I can, that's why. Marianne said the count was NEW words. NEW words.
Which would make my progress so far look like this:
Onward and upward, right?
But that's not the biggest conundrum. My biggest conundrum right now is: from where do I start my word count? I'm starting in the middle of a book, so I figured pick a starting word count and build from there.
I did not count on the delete key figuring so prominently in my early efforts.
I'd originally posted a starting count of 26,461. Then I started writing, deleted 1,457 words and finished my day up only 413 words from the starting word count, but actually wrote 1,870 new words that day.
Well, they were all new words, so I think I'm going with that.
'cause I can, that's why. Marianne said the count was NEW words. NEW words.
Which would make my progress so far look like this:
Onward and upward, right?
Best Day So Far
Woke up this morning at 3:41 a.m. and couldn't get back to sleep. Stoked the fire, loaded the pages for LASR, fed the cat, fixed coffee and wrote.
This morning I worked on "AJFG" -- I really wanted to get the super-soaker scene down, and I did. I also decided that my sisters (that's them lining the bottom of the collage I made) prefer to listen to 80s rocker chicks, so spent my morning watching YouTube videos of Melissa Etheridge (from the 80s -- I loved her first album) and Joan Jett (did you know she covered the AC/DC song, "Dirty Deeds (Done Dirt Cheap)"?).
So, when Geoff -- dear classical music and opera Geoff -- walked into the girls house, he was accosted by much screaming of lyrics. It was lovely.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Oops I Switched It Again
No, I haven't settled into a WIP yet. I switched yet again and am now working on hot fireman manuscript. The fantasy was coming along so slowly and I had no idea where I was going with it. Maybe something will come to me, but in the meantime I want to work on something worthwhile, something that I can actually finish.
So, despite the fact that my kids were home YET AGAIN because of foul weather and my DH decided to take the night off, I managed to eke out 3237 words.
Now my hands ache and I can't stop yawning so I'm calling it quits for the night.
Toodles all!
So, despite the fact that my kids were home YET AGAIN because of foul weather and my DH decided to take the night off, I managed to eke out 3237 words.
Now my hands ache and I can't stop yawning so I'm calling it quits for the night.
Toodles all!
Write or Die
 | 1086 |
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27  | |
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| lab.drwicked.com | |
I earned my gold stars with two visits to Dr. Wicked, one while on the treadmill, where I'm writing this though I think I'm about to make myself seasick because I sway from side to side when I walk (I'm not going to call it a waddle but that word comes to mind). Can't say much for the quality of anything but I wrote nearly 2,000 words today -- the first day I've almost achieved my word count goal this month. Kind of sad but overall I'm glad. Will keep going.
If you haven't tried "Write or Die," you might like it. You put in your word goal and your time goal then press "write." Anytime you pause the screen starts turning pink, then will get red, then will play obnoxious noises. Today's noise was a crying baby. You can also set it to kamikaze where it erases your words one by when while you pause, but I'm not that stupid. I've found it's a really good tool when I need to be forced to write.
Now, if only I could figure out how to get off this treadmill..... Burned 156 calories. There. It's off. That felt good and will continue to feel good unless I make the mistake of reading my work.
Looking forward to reading about everyone's success and strategies.
Would anyone like to do a Vanessa Grant Writing Romance book work group after JaNo? I like hanging out with y'all and would like to continue after January.
Anne AKA smellshorsey
A new Energy
Admittedly I am behind, but I am still moving on. And, today, I felt I got a new energy. Hopefully I will still have it to continue after I get home from work.
I am behind in my words (ah, only a total of 5000 words - much to catch up with), but I feel my character is moving along.
I am behind in my words (ah, only a total of 5000 words - much to catch up with), but I feel my character is moving along.
It's Been A Week!
This is your friendly JaNoWriMo nag calling.
Has everyone checked in at least once?
Hope you're all doing fabulously!!!
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Thanks, Charity and Marianne!
On Writing Wrongs, Charity gave a great tutorial on making a powerpoint collage.
So, finally, I got it.
Marianne suggested a great website for images: http://www.sxc.hu/
And here's the result:
So, finally, I got it.
Marianne suggested a great website for images: http://www.sxc.hu/
And here's the result:
Done For The Day
All in all it wasn't too bad of a writing day. I worked on two wips and wrote a total of 3170 words. So my total is now.....
I've discovered that it's much harder to write a fantasy than a contemporary romance. Several times, as I struck out into cyber space for info, I had to wonder if I had flipped my lid by deciding to go this route. It's not too late to turn back but I'm actually curious to see how far I can take this.
Besides I've been getting all Mrs Robinson whenever I see a picture of Edward from Twilight. Yeah, that would probably freak my daughter right out.
Quick! Someone get me a picture of Gerard Butler!!
I've discovered that it's much harder to write a fantasy than a contemporary romance. Several times, as I struck out into cyber space for info, I had to wonder if I had flipped my lid by deciding to go this route. It's not too late to turn back but I'm actually curious to see how far I can take this.
Besides I've been getting all Mrs Robinson whenever I see a picture of Edward from Twilight. Yeah, that would probably freak my daughter right out.
Quick! Someone get me a picture of Gerard Butler!!
A Few Good Words
Still behind (I'm beginning to think that's my mantra). I had assumed that life would be back to normal in January, but I neglected to realize that rebuilding the entire LASR site and archiving the past years-worth of everything would still be going on.
I'm writing, but not as much as I like. And, I shift back and forth between works because Queen and Assassin is a highly emotional, fairly dark (for me), serious work. And it exhausts me. So I move to A Jewel for Geoff for a bit of fun.
My word count right now for the month is:
I plan on shooting for more today. I can't do a marathon website building day like I did yesterday (until I thought my eyeballs were going to fall out of my head), so I will write some.
I ended a scene in AJFG this morning, and started on Q&A. Fave line today?
A breath of time later, agony stabbed through Starrlyn—pain, but not her own. Death—but no one she knew. And the world wept as she lost consciousness.
And so the fun continues... ha.
I'm writing, but not as much as I like. And, I shift back and forth between works because Queen and Assassin is a highly emotional, fairly dark (for me), serious work. And it exhausts me. So I move to A Jewel for Geoff for a bit of fun.
My word count right now for the month is:
I plan on shooting for more today. I can't do a marathon website building day like I did yesterday (until I thought my eyeballs were going to fall out of my head), so I will write some.
I ended a scene in AJFG this morning, and started on Q&A. Fave line today?
A breath of time later, agony stabbed through Starrlyn—pain, but not her own. Death—but no one she knew. And the world wept as she lost consciousness.
And so the fun continues... ha.
Writing? Not So Much
Yesterday morning before work I only put in 671 words on my short story. And that was it.
For the entire day.
I decided to take the day off and read. I also ran around and did a lot of errands. Actually, I really didn't feel all that guilty about taking the break. I'm back at it this morning and already have 689 words down and still going. I have errands to do later today but I'm determined to finish this short story. I really think I can do it without a whole lot of distraction.
I could almost say that with a straight face. No distraction in a house with three kids?? Yah riiiiight.
For the entire day.
I decided to take the day off and read. I also ran around and did a lot of errands. Actually, I really didn't feel all that guilty about taking the break. I'm back at it this morning and already have 689 words down and still going. I have errands to do later today but I'm determined to finish this short story. I really think I can do it without a whole lot of distraction.
I could almost say that with a straight face. No distraction in a house with three kids?? Yah riiiiight.
Getting warmer . . .
Have you ever heard that the more sleep kids get the more they sleep? I remember discovering that when I tried to keep Henry up late so he'd sleep in the next day only to find him awake even earlier than normal!Since starting JaNoWriMo it seems that the more creative writing I do the more creative things I want to do. This weekend I decided to carry my camera with me everywhere (a hassle because it's heavy and bulky and I'm lazy). I got lucky with a synchronicity of elements - the lighting was just right, the sky was dark and not the normal blah grey of the endless English winter and then, as a gift, a pair of riders appeared.
Unlike some photographers, I rarely have time to wait for a picture. Most great landscape photographers are the ones who venture out at the crack of dawn and then wait hours for the perfect shot. If I'm out, it's at a decent hour and I usually have my dog with me - on the day I took this photo my son was with me too - neither child nor dog are known to want to hang around for long while I take pictures.
I read an article recently in Oprah by Martha Beck where she advised to move towards things that make you feel good and away from things that don't as if playing "warmer, colder". For example, if you feel good after you've exercised - warmer! Drank too much and are now hung over? (Who me?) Colder. I must've needed to hear this message more than once because I'd downloaded a bunch of author interview podcasts from iTunes, she happened to be one of the authors and she said it again.
Creative writing - warmer; photography - warmer; falling off diet wagon: colder; making word count for the day - hot!
Monday, January 5, 2009
Honesty Calendar
I am really six-years-old. I will do anything for a gold star. The more stars, the better.
I'm not motivated by public humiliation, the joy of writing, the excitement of finishing a project or even ice cream (since I was going to have some anyway). But -- a gold star. Now you're talking.
My friend Joan reminded me of Honesty Calendars mentioned in Vanessa Grant's Writing Romance book. These are calendars where you keep track of your real progress. Right there, in front of your eyes. It's either encouraging or guilt-inducing. I set the bar quite low so that it's encouraging unless I do absolutely nothing, and then I should feel guilty.
For 2009, I have two Honesty Calendars. One is on my desk for writing paragraphs or pages in my novel, the other is on my wall next to my treadmill for days I walked. I can't stand to see too many blank squares. Today was going to be a blank square on my writing Honesty Calendar. I couldn't stand it.
So I wrote. Not much. But I wrote. I got a gold sticker.
If I keep it up, maybe I'll get a whole novel.
And the best part is, that little piece of writing seems to have brought my excitement and confidence back. Now I'm all set to earn my gold star for tomorrow. Maybe tomorrow I'll even write several chapters.
But the important thing is that I get my gold star.
Not even Pedaling
It started out great with the first three days seeming to keep me in sync towards the count, but the last two days I seem to have lost some of the energy. I've written, not much, but some each day. For that, I am thankful, but what I have written is not necessarily cohesive.
I will continue. At least attempting to get this pedaling up to speed. The story has wandered. The characters seem a bit lost.
I will continue. At least attempting to get this pedaling up to speed. The story has wandered. The characters seem a bit lost.
Still Behind, but I'm Pedaling!!
Yesterday, everyone except the dog and I woke up cranky and needy... I didn't get much writing done in the a.m. because Sunday is the one day I can sleep in if I choose (no pages to load up for LASR). I slept in until 5:30!!
In any case, DH and DD took off to go ice skating for a bit, so I did do a little writing -- not as much as I like, but I kept having to refer back to "One Love for Liv" for details (the drawback to writing a sequel, I've discovered). I couldn't even remember what season Liv was set in (Sept / Oct in case you wondered).
This is what I have as of this moment (and not having written today...bad me):
Fave line from yesterday (and I wrote this on my personal blog to, apologies to those of you for whom this is a repeat):
Liv has just run into Geoff (much to his dismay). And she says:
“Geoff, I need advice.” She grabbed his sleeve and tugged him to the chairs that lined the wall, shoving him into one. “Okay, now pretend you’re a man.”
Ouch. That sound you hear is his ego deflating...
=======================
In any case, DH and DD took off to go ice skating for a bit, so I did do a little writing -- not as much as I like, but I kept having to refer back to "One Love for Liv" for details (the drawback to writing a sequel, I've discovered). I couldn't even remember what season Liv was set in (Sept / Oct in case you wondered).
This is what I have as of this moment (and not having written today...bad me):
Fave line from yesterday (and I wrote this on my personal blog to, apologies to those of you for whom this is a repeat):
Liv has just run into Geoff (much to his dismay). And she says:
“Geoff, I need advice.” She grabbed his sleeve and tugged him to the chairs that lined the wall, shoving him into one. “Okay, now pretend you’re a man.”
Ouch. That sound you hear is his ego deflating...
=======================
Moving On
My official word count thus far is.....
I really pushed myself yesterday, but it wasn't hard to do. Everyone seemed involved in other things and let me be. I'm hoping today will be as successful.
I've decided to work on my short story. It would be nice to get it finished too so I can do a "quick" edit on it and send it off somewhere. This also gives me more time to wrap my mind around the fantasy I really want to do.
Here's to a new week!
I really pushed myself yesterday, but it wasn't hard to do. Everyone seemed involved in other things and let me be. I'm hoping today will be as successful.
I've decided to work on my short story. It would be nice to get it finished too so I can do a "quick" edit on it and send it off somewhere. This also gives me more time to wrap my mind around the fantasy I really want to do.
Here's to a new week!
Better late than never
Today was our family's Christmas Eve celebration. It had been postponed on the 24th due to snow and on the 30th due to sickness so I shouldn't have been surprised when it started snowing this afternoon. Luckily everyone had made it to my house, but as we drove to Portland to have our annual family dinner at the Rhinelander, the snow seemed to pick up. By the time we were on the way home, everything was covered in white and we needed chains.
Needless to say I got a very late start writing. I spent the morning cleaning and talking on the phone to a guy who went to a rival high school of mine and who I had a huge crush on back then though he had no idea who I was. I found him on Facebook and he just happens to have worked where I'm setting my JaNoWriMo novel. In case you're curious, it's the Balkans. This is the second time Facebook has come through for me with expert research help!
After that phone call I couldn't wait to finally have time to write. Of course I had to wait 9 hours to finally get on my iBook, but the result was 2206 words. I'll be honest. I really wanted to start over at the beginning after learning some things this morning, but I didn't! I just made notes and kept moving forward. I'm pretty proud at my self-discipline over that. Usually I'm not that good! Here's my total word count:
Hope you had a great Sunday! Except for the teeth gritting drive home in the snow, mine couldn't have been better!
Needless to say I got a very late start writing. I spent the morning cleaning and talking on the phone to a guy who went to a rival high school of mine and who I had a huge crush on back then though he had no idea who I was. I found him on Facebook and he just happens to have worked where I'm setting my JaNoWriMo novel. In case you're curious, it's the Balkans. This is the second time Facebook has come through for me with expert research help!
After that phone call I couldn't wait to finally have time to write. Of course I had to wait 9 hours to finally get on my iBook, but the result was 2206 words. I'll be honest. I really wanted to start over at the beginning after learning some things this morning, but I didn't! I just made notes and kept moving forward. I'm pretty proud at my self-discipline over that. Usually I'm not that good! Here's my total word count:
Hope you had a great Sunday! Except for the teeth gritting drive home in the snow, mine couldn't have been better!
Out Of The Gate Late
If it's Monday morning....everyone has left (I hope. It's snowing as I write this, so there is the possibility I'm looking for my sanity under the sofa cushions because the kids are STILL off school) and I'm ready to get down to the business of words, words and more words.
My starting word count is: 26,461.
I've got a through-line chart for the story, which plots the different threads that weave in and out of the book. The chart is divided into four acts, and each thread has a complete arc across the entire story. It helps me keep everything straight as I'm writing each scene, which allows me to write the spine (rough draft) of the story faster.
It's been working well so far. We'll see how it does when I ratchet up the daily word count.
My starting word count is: 26,461.
I've got a through-line chart for the story, which plots the different threads that weave in and out of the book. The chart is divided into four acts, and each thread has a complete arc across the entire story. It helps me keep everything straight as I'm writing each scene, which allows me to write the spine (rough draft) of the story faster.
It's been working well so far. We'll see how it does when I ratchet up the daily word count.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
2 Steps Forward = 1 Step Back?
I'm still not adding much to my word count but I'm happy with the work I did today.
I had this moment of clarity about my project. I want my story to loosely (v. v. loosely) mirror Wizard of Oz. So I'm sitting there thinking about how to finish out a scene and it hits me that in wizard everything starts out black and white -- Dorothy's world is gray and blah and what she wants more than anything is to get out of Kansas and get on to something exciting. Well, my character wants something exciting to happen too, and she kind of sees her life as gray and dull. Then I thought, girl, you should use some of that imagery. I went back through the early pages of my story and inserted descriptions that are gray, dreary, blah. My hero doesn't realize it but the only color in her life shows up whenever the guy she thinks she doesn't want arrives on the scene. And then I finally realized what my character needs -- she needs to appreciate what she has rather than always seeking out a fantasy. "If I ever go looking for my heart's desire again I won't look any further than my own backyard!"
I'm not usually a very deep writer so it feels a little weird (and a little wonderful) to have this kind of insight into my story at this point -- like maybe I've grown a little bit as a writer. That felt so good that (after I patted myself on the back a few times) I looked over the physical descriptions and mannerisms of the main characters. I was able to add bits here and there to make them seem like their counterparts in Oz. It was easy to put the 'scarecrow' character in rumpled mismatched clothes and give him a scruffy beard, to have the 'tin man' be a little stiff, and the 'lion' to act shy and reticent (that sounds better than cowardly, right?)
The coolest thing though is that I can see this playing out within the confines of my plot. My scarecrow knows the right things to do when they are important but he needs to figure out how to not act like a goofball around my hero every time (brains). My tinman seems uncaring but it's really because he has the biggest *heart* of all. And my lion will go from shrinking violet to full-on blue haired vixen -- and she just might find the *courage* to tell her best friend where to stuff it before it's all over.
So. Word count schmurd count. I'm thrilled and excited about this project again! Yay!
I had this moment of clarity about my project. I want my story to loosely (v. v. loosely) mirror Wizard of Oz. So I'm sitting there thinking about how to finish out a scene and it hits me that in wizard everything starts out black and white -- Dorothy's world is gray and blah and what she wants more than anything is to get out of Kansas and get on to something exciting. Well, my character wants something exciting to happen too, and she kind of sees her life as gray and dull. Then I thought, girl, you should use some of that imagery. I went back through the early pages of my story and inserted descriptions that are gray, dreary, blah. My hero doesn't realize it but the only color in her life shows up whenever the guy she thinks she doesn't want arrives on the scene. And then I finally realized what my character needs -- she needs to appreciate what she has rather than always seeking out a fantasy. "If I ever go looking for my heart's desire again I won't look any further than my own backyard!"
I'm not usually a very deep writer so it feels a little weird (and a little wonderful) to have this kind of insight into my story at this point -- like maybe I've grown a little bit as a writer. That felt so good that (after I patted myself on the back a few times) I looked over the physical descriptions and mannerisms of the main characters. I was able to add bits here and there to make them seem like their counterparts in Oz. It was easy to put the 'scarecrow' character in rumpled mismatched clothes and give him a scruffy beard, to have the 'tin man' be a little stiff, and the 'lion' to act shy and reticent (that sounds better than cowardly, right?)
The coolest thing though is that I can see this playing out within the confines of my plot. My scarecrow knows the right things to do when they are important but he needs to figure out how to not act like a goofball around my hero every time (brains). My tinman seems uncaring but it's really because he has the biggest *heart* of all. And my lion will go from shrinking violet to full-on blue haired vixen -- and she just might find the *courage* to tell her best friend where to stuff it before it's all over.
So. Word count schmurd count. I'm thrilled and excited about this project again! Yay!
Just Because
I can't let good writing time get away from me I'm moving onto my next wip.
But not before I made up a new collage for my Blaze like wip.
No, I don't know which one I'm going to do yet. Going to glance at them all and then decide. :)
Happy Dance of Joy
Just had to stop and shout to the world I'M DONE WITH MY MANUSCRIPT!!! I typed the lovliest words in the world "The End".
Well, I guess I shouldn't get too joyous. I still have to edit. The sucker came out to 91318 words. Yoiks!
No editing will be done today though. I won't touch it until February 1st.
Onward and upward!
Well, I guess I shouldn't get too joyous. I still have to edit. The sucker came out to 91318 words. Yoiks!
No editing will be done today though. I won't touch it until February 1st.
Onward and upward!
Progress report
Made it through my goals of the past two days. I am NOT writing late again, however. While I made my 1000 words, they sucked, and I was miserable the whole time.
I did much better writing 1000 this morning and another 1000 this afternoon. I'm really looking forward to returning home on Tuesday and going back to my normal schedule for a few days.
new strategies
I'm trying something new--or rather doing something I used to do but stopped doing--this month as I write up my JaNo project. I'm writing each day's "new words" by hand, instead of on the computer, then the first thing I do the following day is type in the previous day's submission. The biggest reason I'm doing this is since I'm a freelance writer I've become addicted to using the Word Recount button--have it firmly available in the middle of my toolbar. This is important when I'm doing articles, so I don't spend more time "editing down" than I did "writing up" the article to begin with; but I've found I get a little too fond now of hitting that button to see "where I am" at the moment.
I used to write every first draft by hand, but changed that tactic as deadlines became more frequent, and writing on the computer became more comfortable. Even as I changed over, I knew I was missing the potential for having that quick edit when I moved my words from pen to keyboard. But I never realized what an addict I was to the Recount key until recently.
This fall, I was watching a morning program while procrastinating on an assignment and checking email instead, and the talking female head (don't remember which on it was) mentioned that during the continuous stock market dive she was continually checking the stock tickers and making herself more and more depressed as the day went on. While I don't get depressed by checking my word count (well, not enough to be concerned about), her words made me realize I was spending time stopping myself from being productive whenever I hit that dastardly little button. Worse, if I was near my daily goal, I would mentally start letting myself "shut down for the day."
Writing by hand also keeps me away from the possibility of checking email--or finding new reasons to research while I write (and become addicted to reading new sites that shift me over to other sites that let me click to other sites, and so on).
While I've always edited by hand (I just don't notice things on the screen that I should, and find things--especially repetitive words and phrases--jump out at me when I read them on paper), I'm finding this low-tech re-habit is kind of comforting right now.
That's not to say I'm writing any better. I've found that as I reread what I've written the day before, as I type, I tend to ax much more than I do when I'm just re-reading a previous day's work on the screen. Guess my fingers don't want to bother typing what I know will go anyway. And while I'm "writing" my 2000 word goal each day, I'm actually typing and keeping something between 500 to 1000. But that's okay. The editing I do now won't have to be done later. And I'm not throwing away these handwritten pages until the project is completed, so if I find I absolutely must have something I didn't give enough credit to during the first readthrough, it will still be accessible--if harder to find.
Best of all, doing the retyping the next day gives another deadline to keep me from straying off track. If I allow myself to only read the previous day's work while I'm typing, I'm not tempted to waste the morning rereading and editing a whole chapter.
It's only day 4, so I don't know if this new habit will be the best thing that ever happened to my fiction; but since my nonfiction has "deadlines", and my fiction has only "wantlines," if I don't find ways to make it have some kind of priority in my day, I just work on assignments instead.
Anyway, that's my life at the moment. Now I'll go back to reading about all of your more interesting lives. Love seeing all the collages, BTW.
I used to write every first draft by hand, but changed that tactic as deadlines became more frequent, and writing on the computer became more comfortable. Even as I changed over, I knew I was missing the potential for having that quick edit when I moved my words from pen to keyboard. But I never realized what an addict I was to the Recount key until recently.
This fall, I was watching a morning program while procrastinating on an assignment and checking email instead, and the talking female head (don't remember which on it was) mentioned that during the continuous stock market dive she was continually checking the stock tickers and making herself more and more depressed as the day went on. While I don't get depressed by checking my word count (well, not enough to be concerned about), her words made me realize I was spending time stopping myself from being productive whenever I hit that dastardly little button. Worse, if I was near my daily goal, I would mentally start letting myself "shut down for the day."
Writing by hand also keeps me away from the possibility of checking email--or finding new reasons to research while I write (and become addicted to reading new sites that shift me over to other sites that let me click to other sites, and so on).
While I've always edited by hand (I just don't notice things on the screen that I should, and find things--especially repetitive words and phrases--jump out at me when I read them on paper), I'm finding this low-tech re-habit is kind of comforting right now.
That's not to say I'm writing any better. I've found that as I reread what I've written the day before, as I type, I tend to ax much more than I do when I'm just re-reading a previous day's work on the screen. Guess my fingers don't want to bother typing what I know will go anyway. And while I'm "writing" my 2000 word goal each day, I'm actually typing and keeping something between 500 to 1000. But that's okay. The editing I do now won't have to be done later. And I'm not throwing away these handwritten pages until the project is completed, so if I find I absolutely must have something I didn't give enough credit to during the first readthrough, it will still be accessible--if harder to find.
Best of all, doing the retyping the next day gives another deadline to keep me from straying off track. If I allow myself to only read the previous day's work while I'm typing, I'm not tempted to waste the morning rereading and editing a whole chapter.
It's only day 4, so I don't know if this new habit will be the best thing that ever happened to my fiction; but since my nonfiction has "deadlines", and my fiction has only "wantlines," if I don't find ways to make it have some kind of priority in my day, I just work on assignments instead.
Anyway, that's my life at the moment. Now I'll go back to reading about all of your more interesting lives. Love seeing all the collages, BTW.
Back To "Normal"
Well, after 24 (feels more like 39) days out of school, my kids are finally going back to school tomorrow. They've been out since the 11th of Dec because of the ice storm that hit us. And my DH goes back to work tomorrow. He's only been out since the 23rd.
And then I can get back to my normal writing schedule!!
I'm so happy!
Hope everyone has a wonderful and productive day!
And then I can get back to my normal writing schedule!!
I'm so happy!
Hope everyone has a wonderful and productive day!
Too Tired to Continue
Normally I'd be hitting my stride about now, but the last couple of nights have caught up with me and I need to call it a night before midnight strikes. My word count for today is 1931. I was hoping for more since we'll be celebrating our twice delayed Christmas Eve celebration with my family. Oh, well, there's always tomorrow night!
Hope the words are flowing for everyone on Sunday!
Hope the words are flowing for everyone on Sunday!
Saturday, January 3, 2009
Notes from the last couple of days
Current word count: 4011, but I haven't written yet today. That's next.
I was hoping to come on here and be inspired and I was. I think it was Ceri or Keri, but one of you mentioned how nice it is writing in this manner and getting such wonderful support. I so second this! It's just a great place to visit at the end of a long day.
I played around way too late with a collage last night. I didn't like any of the images I found and power point was driving me crazy, etc., etc.
I really like the collage idea. Tonight, as a reward if I make at least 1000 words, I'm going to start gathering images for an old-fashioned cut and paste collage, which I'll make when I return to MI on Tues. Then I'll take a pic and post it. ;-) I'm such a techno whiz kid.
My mother asked me this evening what my story was about. And I told her. And I'm now thinking maybe I need to rethink some of my plot twists. It also pointed out the places I'm really unclear on. Those were the points where I'd be in the middle of explaining a detail and my eyes would glaze over and I think I probably went slack-mouthed and started saying, "Um, uh."
I'm worried I may have more of those than I realized.
I'm writing this draft in a linear manner. I never do that. I'm going to write out of sequence tonight and see how that goes.
I'm giving myself all these "treats" to write tonight because I am a MORNING writer and I'm so darned tired right now!
But I'm going to write.
Happy writing!
I was hoping to come on here and be inspired and I was. I think it was Ceri or Keri, but one of you mentioned how nice it is writing in this manner and getting such wonderful support. I so second this! It's just a great place to visit at the end of a long day.
I played around way too late with a collage last night. I didn't like any of the images I found and power point was driving me crazy, etc., etc.
I really like the collage idea. Tonight, as a reward if I make at least 1000 words, I'm going to start gathering images for an old-fashioned cut and paste collage, which I'll make when I return to MI on Tues. Then I'll take a pic and post it. ;-) I'm such a techno whiz kid.
My mother asked me this evening what my story was about. And I told her. And I'm now thinking maybe I need to rethink some of my plot twists. It also pointed out the places I'm really unclear on. Those were the points where I'd be in the middle of explaining a detail and my eyes would glaze over and I think I probably went slack-mouthed and started saying, "Um, uh."
I'm worried I may have more of those than I realized.
I'm writing this draft in a linear manner. I never do that. I'm going to write out of sequence tonight and see how that goes.
I'm giving myself all these "treats" to write tonight because I am a MORNING writer and I'm so darned tired right now!
But I'm going to write.
Happy writing!
Misdirection
I've noticed that everyone who has posted a collage and a playlist has also completed more words than I have. Clearly, this lack of playlist/collage is at the root of my writing problem. I spent large blocks of time today ameliorating this situation.
My Playlist:
1. Somewhere Over the Rainbow -- Judy Garland
2. Geek Love -- Fan3
3. Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots -- Flaming Lips
4. The Blizzard of '96 -- The Walkmen
5. Stuck In a Moment -- U2
6. Head Over Heels -- Tears For Fears
7. Suddenly Everything Has Changed -- The Postal Service
8. Over the Rainbow -- Me First and the Gimme Gimmes
9. Anyone Else But You -- Moldy Peaches
10. Somewhere Only We Know -- Keane
11. Four Leaf Clover -- Badly Drawn Boy
12. Rockin' the Suburbs -- Ben Folds
13. Somewhere Over the Rainbow -- Israel Kamikawio'ole
And my collage:
Any minute now the words will start to come, right?
My Playlist:
1. Somewhere Over the Rainbow -- Judy Garland
2. Geek Love -- Fan3
3. Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots -- Flaming Lips
4. The Blizzard of '96 -- The Walkmen
5. Stuck In a Moment -- U2
6. Head Over Heels -- Tears For Fears
7. Suddenly Everything Has Changed -- The Postal Service
8. Over the Rainbow -- Me First and the Gimme Gimmes
9. Anyone Else But You -- Moldy Peaches
10. Somewhere Only We Know -- Keane
11. Four Leaf Clover -- Badly Drawn Boy
12. Rockin' the Suburbs -- Ben Folds
13. Somewhere Over the Rainbow -- Israel Kamikawio'ole
And my collage:
Any minute now the words will start to come, right?
slow and steady wins the race--right?
Plugging along. I know I have a great story, and I have all the research anyone could hope for--probably too much. I'm in awe of all of you who have put collages together. I'm afraid if I got started doing that I would never get back to my writing.
My big problem is I'm trying to write this by the seat of my pants. While I know others who do this, I really need some structure. I know the big picture, but I don't know the different avenues I need to travel down. I keep trying to do my synopsis each day--then tell myself how bad it is and hit delete!
I listened to a Vanessa Grant mp3 last night, and I'm trying to take her advice and just focus on the "big conflict," but since I'm writing thriller instead of romance, I'm still having difficulty keeping it down to "just the facts, ma'am."
Sigh... It will get better, I know. At least I'm getting my outside work done and turned in, and still getting at least 500 good words written on my project each day. The synopsis will come. The synopsis will come.
Yes, I know I probably should have completed the synopsis before I started JaNo. Sigh...
My big problem is I'm trying to write this by the seat of my pants. While I know others who do this, I really need some structure. I know the big picture, but I don't know the different avenues I need to travel down. I keep trying to do my synopsis each day--then tell myself how bad it is and hit delete!
I listened to a Vanessa Grant mp3 last night, and I'm trying to take her advice and just focus on the "big conflict," but since I'm writing thriller instead of romance, I'm still having difficulty keeping it down to "just the facts, ma'am."
Sigh... It will get better, I know. At least I'm getting my outside work done and turned in, and still getting at least 500 good words written on my project each day. The synopsis will come. The synopsis will come.
Yes, I know I probably should have completed the synopsis before I started JaNo. Sigh...
Widget Thingie
No too bad. Still got a ways to go before this story is done though. Then it's off to Fantasyland!
Or really hot firemanland.
Haven't decided. But if it's really hot Firemanland then I'll have to do a new collage. Might be worth it just to do the collage.
Running Late... As Usual and WC
I haven't contributed much to the discussions lately... sorry! Aside from health issues I just wasn't sure exactly what I was going to do. I have an idea that started with NaNo and just petered out when other stuff interrupted. I had a hard time making the time to sit down and write. Soo... I wanted to keep working on that one. So far, this is my word count widget:
We'll see if I can keep up when I don't have holidays to try and work around.
We'll see if I can keep up when I don't have holidays to try and work around.
Honeymoon Phase
I made it! I didn't cheat and I chanted my mantra. And now I'm loving the feeling of doing this JaNoWriMo together. :) Writing, at times, is such a solitary process.
Right now, I'm in the honeymoon phase - completely and utterly in love with my idea. But, as I approach the 25% mark, I know the stage of 'something or someone isn't going right with the story' is looming around the quarter bend.
Does anyone outline? I did, my first pre-outline ever, while I waited for January 1st.. But, the story is taking on a life of its own and inspirations turn events. Does this happen to anyone else? Happy Saturday!
Stand and Deliver
You know you are in for a difficult writing day when you try to clear your mind and find that Adam Ant has taken up residence there.
Just sayin' is all.
Just sayin' is all.
Word Count, Day 3 + Collage part deux
I've decided to lump together the words from both stories into one nifty widget. I worked on both this morning, so my total word count for JaNo is:
To be on track, I should really have 4838 words today... but I can still catch up. I have high hopes that once DH is back at work on Monday, and DD is back doing school, and things are just basically back to normal, I will have more uninterrupted time to write.
And, I did a collage for A Jewel for Geoff:
I love collages, but they are a serious time suck. Still... it's done. And it helps organize my thoughts. Yay.
To be on track, I should really have 4838 words today... but I can still catch up. I have high hopes that once DH is back at work on Monday, and DD is back doing school, and things are just basically back to normal, I will have more uninterrupted time to write.
And, I did a collage for A Jewel for Geoff:
I love collages, but they are a serious time suck. Still... it's done. And it helps organize my thoughts. Yay.
Panic!
I trolled around the Mac Appleworks forum but the discussion was far too techy for a mere mortal such as myself. Was it really that hard to convert old files? More panic - had I lost everything I'd ever written in Appleworks? Sure, I had hard copies. Somewhere. I think. But I hadn't moved them to the UK because I had everything on my laptop. Ughhhhh.
I eventually read that old Appleworks files could be opened using Pages and it was SO simple. Yea! I finally re-read my brilliant scene only to find it wasn't quite as great as I thought. In fact, aside from a few description lines, I couldn't use it at all. I had to write the whole scene from scratch after all. So much for shortcuts!
Do you have a good file naming strategy? How do you keep your chapters/books organized on your computer?
2361 Words
Not as many words as yesterday, but no complaints. I didn't start writing until later this evening. At first it was like pulling teeth. I finally picked up steam around 11 pm. Thank goodness because I feared I might only have a couple hundred words because things were going so slow.
I'm really struggling to turn off my internal editor. I spoke on the telephone with my critique partner, Virginia Kantra, this morning, and she had a couple really good suggestions about intensifying the conflict. But instead of going back and making the changes in Chapter One as I normally would do, I wrote them on my notepad and continued forward with the story. I do not want to go back at all until I reach the end.
At least that's the plan. We'll see how well I execute it!
Goodnight!
I'm really struggling to turn off my internal editor. I spoke on the telephone with my critique partner, Virginia Kantra, this morning, and she had a couple really good suggestions about intensifying the conflict. But instead of going back and making the changes in Chapter One as I normally would do, I wrote them on my notepad and continued forward with the story. I do not want to go back at all until I reach the end.
At least that's the plan. We'll see how well I execute it!
Goodnight!
Friday, January 2, 2009
Screeeeeeeech
That's the sound of my writing for the day. Whatever I got done this morning is pretty much it. When I got home from work today (around 2pm) I had errands to run, which turned into a drive all over southern New Hampshire in search of anything Cheetah Girls.
Then home to make dinner and watch (sort of) Hellboy II. I was really doing some research for my fantasy story. But shhh... don't tell anyone. I'm not supposed to work on anything else besides my sequel.
Anyway, as I've been inspired by the wonderful collage's posted here, I made one up for my fantasy story. Not easy.
Can't wait to get started on it!
Crawling Not Walking
Fail. Day one total = 702 words. Day two (so far)= 0
I did manage to find and download free collage making software, update my playlist, research Hoth (the ice planet in Star Wars Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back), and play a dozen games of Mahjong.
I'll do better. I promise.
I did manage to find and download free collage making software, update my playlist, research Hoth (the ice planet in Star Wars Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back), and play a dozen games of Mahjong.
I'll do better. I promise.
Walking Not Running - Day Two
After much procrastination, I finally got cranked up and wrote what I'm guessing is Chapter 2 (with holes and much babbling). It's a little too edgy for my intended market but maybe that was lack of oxygen on my part. I wrote 1,562 words while walking 2.4 miles on the treadmill. I hoped to write more but looking at the screen and walking made me slightly seasick. This is a new thing for me. There's really no reason to look at the screen. I'll have to train myself to watch the scene in my head instead. Not sure how accurate this is, but I burned 265 calories, too.
And I got a gold star on my honesty calendars. I'm like a six-year-old. I'll do anything for a gold star. I have calendar for the treadmill, and one for writing. I intend to have a whole page of gold stars this month.
(Notice I don't have a quality calendar -- not measuring that this month.)
I hope the rest of you are hitting your goals and most of all, having fun.
Anne AKA smellshorsey
And I got a gold star on my honesty calendars. I'm like a six-year-old. I'll do anything for a gold star. I have calendar for the treadmill, and one for writing. I intend to have a whole page of gold stars this month.
(Notice I don't have a quality calendar -- not measuring that this month.)
I hope the rest of you are hitting your goals and most of all, having fun.
Anne AKA smellshorsey
Day Two WC and a Collage
Managed to get 985 words done on Queen and Assassin this morning.
All very emotional stuff, which I love. I woke up a bit late (5 a.m.) and had to do my LASR stuff first (uploading today's new pages), so didn't actually start writing until six or so. Still, I like where the story is going and I really love my characters -- especially the deeply conflicted, wounded and tortured hero. Speaking of whom, I did take some time last night making a collage... no easy task for a fantasy novel. Here's what I've come up with, at least so far. As I write, and more things become symbolic in the story, I may add more:
I left it "clickable", so you should be able to enlarge it if you'd like.
I have high hopes on doing two things today: increasing my word count and creating a collage for "A Jewel for Geoff".
:::fingers crossed:::
All very emotional stuff, which I love. I woke up a bit late (5 a.m.) and had to do my LASR stuff first (uploading today's new pages), so didn't actually start writing until six or so. Still, I like where the story is going and I really love my characters -- especially the deeply conflicted, wounded and tortured hero. Speaking of whom, I did take some time last night making a collage... no easy task for a fantasy novel. Here's what I've come up with, at least so far. As I write, and more things become symbolic in the story, I may add more:
I left it "clickable", so you should be able to enlarge it if you'd like.
I have high hopes on doing two things today: increasing my word count and creating a collage for "A Jewel for Geoff".
:::fingers crossed:::
It's a start
Well, I'm done writing for the morning. I need to get ready for my day job. More typing. Oh joy.
Anyway, I just added another 1487 to my word count. Don't know if I'm going to improve on that today. I have a gazillion things I need to do after work.
But not too shabby.
Happy typing to all of you!
Anyway, I just added another 1487 to my word count. Don't know if I'm going to improve on that today. I have a gazillion things I need to do after work.
But not too shabby.
Happy typing to all of you!
Calling It a Night!
Not such a bad day afterall. I have to remind myself that I always do the majority of my writing after everyone else has gone to bed in the house.
I just hope I can keep it up! I've never won a NaNoWriMo before. But I'm calling it quits tonight. I'm ready to crawl into bed and go to sleep. Of course, my dog, Chaos, is currently lying in my spot sound asleep. Goodnight!
Melissa
I just hope I can keep it up! I've never won a NaNoWriMo before. But I'm calling it quits tonight. I'm ready to crawl into bed and go to sleep. Of course, my dog, Chaos, is currently lying in my spot sound asleep. Goodnight!
Melissa
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Exactly What Do I Think I'm Doing?
I've been more excited about JaNoWriMo than I was about Christmas. I had all these ideas for the novel I'm going to write so easily and quickly this month. So why didn't I start?
On your mark! Get ready! Set! Go...do something else. Word count: ZERO.
My excuses are unique and lousy. My husband decided to make the desk for my treadmill that is my Christmas present. That way I can write and walk (slowly). So, of course I couldn't work with him in my office.
I mean, he was using a power tool. He was singing. He was snacking on cashews. He was walking to and fro. It was noisy. He was finished by 2:00 or so and then I had to pick up our daughter from a sleepover.
And heaven knows I couldn't possibly write in any other room. Oh no. Not when there was such a good excuse going on in this one.
And I couldn't write when I got her back home, could I?
Apparently not. Waiting for a little adrenaline rush. At least while I'm procrastinating I'm going to listen to a Vanessa Grant lecture while I take down the Christmas tree. Maybe when the Christmas stuff is all in the attic, the attic in my head will be a better place to work.
Happy New Year, all, and know that whatever you have done or didn't do, my purpose is to make you look good.
On your mark! Get ready! Set! Go...do something else. Word count: ZERO.
My excuses are unique and lousy. My husband decided to make the desk for my treadmill that is my Christmas present. That way I can write and walk (slowly). So, of course I couldn't work with him in my office.
I mean, he was using a power tool. He was singing. He was snacking on cashews. He was walking to and fro. It was noisy. He was finished by 2:00 or so and then I had to pick up our daughter from a sleepover.
And heaven knows I couldn't possibly write in any other room. Oh no. Not when there was such a good excuse going on in this one.
And I couldn't write when I got her back home, could I?
Apparently not. Waiting for a little adrenaline rush. At least while I'm procrastinating I'm going to listen to a Vanessa Grant lecture while I take down the Christmas tree. Maybe when the Christmas stuff is all in the attic, the attic in my head will be a better place to work.
Happy New Year, all, and know that whatever you have done or didn't do, my purpose is to make you look good.
Right Now, Life is the Novel
Just received word this afternoon that 2 friends have died in the past 36 hours.
And my pms is now officially ms.
I'm reeling - and they're not even my families.
Well, yes they are.
Hard to write humor when tragedy and two funerals are staring you down.
Groovy's wordcount = 0 today.
And my pms is now officially ms.
I'm reeling - and they're not even my families.
Well, yes they are.
Hard to write humor when tragedy and two funerals are staring you down.
Groovy's wordcount = 0 today.
1,674 and a collage too!
I admit it. I was totally scared to start writing. I have/had my reasons:
- I'm so not ready. Seriously, prep work, nearly non-existent
- It's been a long time, like two years, since I've worked on the first, first draft of a novel. I've been doing revisions and editing and polishing. Draft writing? What's that?
- What if it was all a fluke?
- Dude, you totally forgot how to write.
And. So. On. I decided (during morning exercise) that each book is different. I'd been "dream-storming" this one a lot (ala Robert Olen Butler). So, with this one, I'll continue to do character work, but I'll start writing it as well.
So I did. And got 1,674 words. Then I made a collage:
Dude, it doesn't get much better than that.
An Omen???
It's almost three o'clock in the afternoon and I've just sit down at my computer. I'm not sure where the day went, but needless to say, I'm at zero words. I sure hope this isn't an omen of my writing endeavors in 2009.
I also decided to work on the spec book. Thanks for everyone who offered an opinion.
Okay, time to write. Just as soon as I grab some chocolate!! I'll post my word count once there's actually something to post.
Melissa
I also decided to work on the spec book. Thanks for everyone who offered an opinion.
Okay, time to write. Just as soon as I grab some chocolate!! I'll post my word count once there's actually something to post.
Melissa
Starting counts
Starting point: 398 wc
end of today: 2027.
I'm shooting for 2000 most days, due to the fact that I may not be able to do every, single day in Jan. Today I cut myself some slack because I'm still behind on a lot of research, etc. I'm actually planning to put more in tonight, if I can.
Cheers, everyone!
end of today: 2027.
I'm shooting for 2000 most days, due to the fact that I may not be able to do every, single day in Jan. Today I cut myself some slack because I'm still behind on a lot of research, etc. I'm actually planning to put more in tonight, if I can.
Cheers, everyone!
A new year, some new words!
This morning I thought, "I'll just try and write a 1000 words per day." But instead of writing I cleaned out some old files on my Alphasmart. Made a cup of tea and then realized I'd run out of time-wasting distractions. Darn.
At 650 words, I made myself another cup of tea. 250 words left. I made the final push. I forced myself to stop looking at the word count every five seconds. The story became alive. At the end of the chapter, I checked again - 1630 - phew! Only 30 days to go.
Writng and Resolutions
So I got started. And effectively got my first part started - all 1650 words. I am determined to push ahead. That is my writing, and that is my resolution. Happy New Year.
I Decided... to NOT Decide!
I'm working on two projects for JaNoWriMo simultaneously. I swear I feel the need to multi-task in all facets of my life.
The two (working titles) are:
A Jewel for Geoff -- wrote 354 words this a.m. and then got hung up on what my heroine and her sisters look like (see what happens when I don't collage??). So, current word count total:
JaNo goal for JfG:
Actual WC goal for aJfG:
Queen and Assassin -- just opened it to start writing and will report that tomorrow, but since this was my 2007 NaNoWriMo project, I have a starting word count of:
JaNo goal for Q&A:
Actual WC goal for Q&A:
I need 1700 words a day -- give or take a few. I think I can do it... if I can just finish thestupid lovely website overhaul for The Long and the Short of It. Why can't the silly thing update itself?? HUH???
So, how are YOU doing?
The two (working titles) are:
A Jewel for Geoff -- wrote 354 words this a.m. and then got hung up on what my heroine and her sisters look like (see what happens when I don't collage??). So, current word count total:
JaNo goal for JfG:
Actual WC goal for aJfG:
Queen and Assassin -- just opened it to start writing and will report that tomorrow, but since this was my 2007 NaNoWriMo project, I have a starting word count of:
JaNo goal for Q&A:
Actual WC goal for Q&A:
I need 1700 words a day -- give or take a few. I think I can do it... if I can just finish the
So, how are YOU doing?
and awaaaayyyy we gooooooo!
Happy New Year's all, and hope everyone is ready for JaNo. I have a column due today (that I should have already completed and turned in), but my fiction project is begging for equal time, so I've already completed 1000 words today and am shooting for another 1000. I have music playing (Enya -- since listening to her just seems like chanting, and I don't really focus on listening to the words), and my tea is beside me to give me a caffeine charge as I need one. Good luck to all, and I can't wait to learn how everyone is doing this month!
Joan
Joan
Ceri's Starting Word Count
I was 78802 words into my current WIP. That was about 5am. I've had a good day. I've already written 3338 words!
And I hope to add to that count.
Happy New Year all!
And I hope to add to that count.
Happy New Year all!
Bleh...A Whiny Diatribe (Dang...I don't think "diatribe" is quite the right word. Too bad!)
Happy JaNoWriMo 2009.
Note that I did not end that with an exclamation mark...
I shall have to include this past week in the "nothing ever goes as planned" file. My house is not clean, in fact, it is disgusting. My Christmas decorations are not down. All those little projects I had optimistically planned to finish haven't even been touched. I did manange to get a lame photo post up on my regular blog, but I haven't gone near my diet blog for Prevention Mag (probably because I haven't "gone near" my diet over the holidays!) and I need 2 skits before next Thursday's 4-H meeting. My hubby has been sick and therefore HOME all week. I slipped on the ice Sunday and strained/sprained my hip, so I can't bend, do housework, or sit for any length of time; This makes extended typing just so much fun. I had a wonderful Christmas, but everything has been strangely busy and weird ever since - probably because I've been trying to pick up the slack for my hubby. My mom is upset with me because I am shutting down today and taking no calls and going NO where. The windchill today is supposed to make it feel something like -20ºF outside and the high winds will threaten our electric power.
Oh, and did I mention that I have PMS and my hormones are raging and I'm probably coming down with a virus and my right arm is shorter than my left and I overslept this morning and dang, my hip hurts and my disc drive is making a funny noise so my husband is going to take OUR ONLY COMPUTER to a shop for who knows how many days because our extended warranty expires this month so we'd better get it taken care of now and I'm making mountains out of mole hills and I just want my chocolate and my teddy bear?
I'm whining, aren't I? Sorry.
OK...Groovy is off to conquer the world and do some small bits of writing in short spurts - between doses of chocolate and coffee.
Note that I did not end that with an exclamation mark...
I shall have to include this past week in the "nothing ever goes as planned" file. My house is not clean, in fact, it is disgusting. My Christmas decorations are not down. All those little projects I had optimistically planned to finish haven't even been touched. I did manange to get a lame photo post up on my regular blog, but I haven't gone near my diet blog for Prevention Mag (probably because I haven't "gone near" my diet over the holidays!) and I need 2 skits before next Thursday's 4-H meeting. My hubby has been sick and therefore HOME all week. I slipped on the ice Sunday and strained/sprained my hip, so I can't bend, do housework, or sit for any length of time; This makes extended typing just so much fun. I had a wonderful Christmas, but everything has been strangely busy and weird ever since - probably because I've been trying to pick up the slack for my hubby. My mom is upset with me because I am shutting down today and taking no calls and going NO where. The windchill today is supposed to make it feel something like -20ºF outside and the high winds will threaten our electric power.
Oh, and did I mention that I have PMS and my hormones are raging and I'm probably coming down with a virus and my right arm is shorter than my left and I overslept this morning and dang, my hip hurts and my disc drive is making a funny noise so my husband is going to take OUR ONLY COMPUTER to a shop for who knows how many days because our extended warranty expires this month so we'd better get it taken care of now and I'm making mountains out of mole hills and I just want my chocolate and my teddy bear?
I'm whining, aren't I? Sorry.
OK...Groovy is off to conquer the world and do some small bits of writing in short spurts - between doses of chocolate and coffee.
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