I know. It’s a little dramatic, but I wanted to get your attention!
I first heard about NaNoWriMo a few months back before joining the RWA. At the time I thought it was a great concept, but that was it. Great concept, nice idea, sounds promising, might be fun, not really for me…
Well, a few months down the track and my perspective has changed. It’s amazing how becoming a member of an organisation and developing a support network has me singing a different tune!
I’ve met (well not literally, but online) a number of wonderful people who have gently cajoled (pushed/shoved/forced) me into committing to this wonderful challenge. I’m not feeling the slightest bit of pressure (she says as the sweat drips all over her keyboard).
All kidding aside, I think it’s a wonderful way of trying to achieve a dream. It can be is as big as deal as you make it, or it can be just a hell of a lot of fun.
I’m taking it seriously this year. I want to give it a shot of reaching 50,000 words, but I’m realistic – having a holiday where writing is banned for the first week of November isn’t going to help me at all! I’m also at the beginning of my writing ‘career’, so I have limited expectations of myself. I’m not putting myself down. I’d just rather accept my limitations – if I crack the big five-o I can be proud, rather than disappointed if I don’t.
So… today isn’t the greatest prep day for NaNo for me, but I take notes whenever I can. Those of you who know me know I’m very secretive about what I write, so I’m not prepared to share my story ideas(boo hiss). But I PROMISE I’ll let you know when I’m ready… Who knows, I might tell you what I wrote for NaNo 2008 by the time NaNo 2009 comes around! Lol.
I’d like to hear how everyone is going with their preps. You don’t have to share your story ideas as such, but I hope you’re all brimming with ideas and are full of excitement, not terror! :-)
4 comments:
Monique, great post. The first NaNo can be a bit scary but you will be surprised at how much you can write in a short period.
As far as reaching the word count or, I think if you give it, your best shoot and no matter than you are a winner. You have your week away and enjoy the time with your family.
I’m still getting my notes etc. organized for NaNo, but all is well and will work out in the end.
Thanks for posting, I’m looking forward to writing more about your journey.
Sandie.
I'm trying to get my other story finished so I can just go for my Girl Pirates in Space one...
I love the energy in the weeks building up to NaNo. Everyone is hopeful, brimming with ideas and determination.
We all *want* this. We want to be writers so badly, we're willing to put ourselves through a mad bootcamp, foregoing all "normal" things for a month.
Everyone who is brave (or foolish) enough to sign up to NaNo and make the commitment is a winner in my world already.
It's not the amount of words, it's your serious intent to stick with a format and just go for it and write like an author possessed.
Hey Monique, great post. And good luck with the first NaNo. I have yet to attempt an actual NaNo but did join in June with these wonderful ladies. You are in good hands. Have fun!
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