NaNo is two weeks away. How did that happen? I've decided to toss caution to the wind and give NaNo a whirl this year. Can I pound out 50k in 30 days? Derned if I know, but I guess we're going to find out.
Let's share our thoughts, logins and experiences.. I'm really looking for logins so I can have some buddies. grin.
I'm dragonldy btw. And I'm signed up for NaNoWriMo 2008
Wendy, thanks for getting this thread started. My life's pretty busy right now, so NaNo does not seem to be in the cards for me. However, I do hope November is the month where my writing focus is mostly on creating new chapters rather than on editing. I need to get back to marketing as well.
Aww, James. If I can find time to Nano, you can find time to Nano. I prolly won't finish this year, actually. The writing bug is being squashed by the powerpoint-lecture-making steel-toed boot.
Top it off tonight? We heard the coyotes howling and on the hunt and very close. Next thing I knew, something hit the front door, which we don't use much. wtf? Turned the light on and there is is thin golden brown hound type dog sitting against the door whining. Dan calls out, we have a dog on the porch. Sure enough. I took one look at it and told it, "no, you can't live here. I do NOT need another dog. No. Go Away." Dan and Jake are laughing their heads off. sigh I know it's prolly here to stay safe from the coyotes, which the guys did scare off. This hound thing is prolly 6 months? Thin. Did I mention I don't need another dog?
I did complete Nano last year...with the help of some vacation time. Not going to attempt it this year, but if I ever do do it again I would write a more detailed outline before November 1st. Writing that fast doesn't allow for thinking time. I know "not thinking" and "just writing" is sort of Nano's whole premise, but I wrote my normal skeleton outline before Nano and ran out of story near the end. Then had to figure out how/where to insert those last 10,000 words (nearly killed me, I tell ya) So, that's my advice, Wendy and anyone else trying Nano for the first time. Start thinking of scenes now, so when you start writing on November 1st you'll be able to write, write, write as you won't have time to think, think, think of what to write.
I'm hoping it will remember where it lives--which is NOT here---and heads off when it feels safe. It also smells like skunk, pe ew. Right now it discovered my back patio and is curled up on the Welcome mat. I did explain that didn't mean him for life.
I'm not doing Nano. I've got a story to enter into Golden Heart and still have to get the 6 copies and a synopsis--which I haven't written as yet. And another story I'm in the middle of, so don't need any more pressure than what I have.
My head is about to spin off. I want to do NaNo, but I don't know if it will be reasonably possible. I already feel thin mentally, like I've been stretched too much.
Jill, I ended up having an argument with my character about whose fault it was that the book wasn't progressing. Not salvagable for the book -- it turned out to be more of a character profile.
Bertram: I really want to know. What would be doing if you weren’t talking to me?
Chip: Going home. I have a cat waiting for me. You’ve left us alone so long, it’s probably gone by now.
Bertram: Not yet, he’s still waiting for you. And he’s doing well. He’s quite a self-sufficient creature, you know.
Chip: It. It’s an it, not a he. “He assumes humanness, and it’s a higher life form than any human I’ve ever met.
Bertram: Okay. It’s waiting for you.
Chip: I hear that patronizing tone in your voice. I don’t have to put up with it.
Bertram: Oh, but you do. I’ve pledged to write 2000 words tonight, and since you’re not giving me anything to work with, we’re going to keep at this until you do.
Chip: What do you need from me?
Bertram: Something to make you real in my head so that I can hardly wait to work on your story everyday. Something that excites me so that I can’t stop thinking about it.
Chip: No one can do that. You’ve read so much you’re jaded, and now you expect me to supply the excitement you once found while reading. But at least you’re working again.
Bertram: But the writing is awful. I can’t use any of it for the book.
Chip: So? I thought the point was to write whatever flows out of your mind.
Bertram: I didn’t expect such drivel. I’d hoped for magic.
Chip: We all hope for magic. Few of us get it.
Bertram: Now we’re getting somewhere. Did you hope for magic?
Chip: Maybe.
Bertram: Then you got it, didn’t you? One day your world was the same as it always was, and the next . . .
Chip: It changed. Nothing is the same. Nothing is real.
Bertram: How does that make you feel?
Chip: What are you, my therapist?
Bertram: Just answer the question.
Chip: It makes me feel frightened. Awed. Unsettled. Lonely. Desperate. Excited. Except for the bugs. I can do without those.
Bertram: You have to admit, it’s interesting for a character who professes to love animals to have an aversion to bugs.
Chip: Big bugs. Two-inch beetles. Seven-foot millipedes. Next thing I know, you’re going to have dragonflies with six-foot wingspans.
Bertram: Great idea, but I don’t want to overdo the bug thing.
Chip: Believe me, I don’t want you to overdo it either. Can I go home now?
Bertram: As soon as you give me something to work with.
Chip: Looks like it’s going to be a very long night.
NANO!!! Oooo, I love Nano! I'm so excited! Maybe it's because I had such a wonderful experience with it last year. This year, I actually have an outline, and I've been researching like crazy. My favorites? I have the trial transcript from Ann Bonny's trial, plus a fabulous book called "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Pirates". Seriously. Plus, my Anne Bonny action figure, my Jack Rackham figure (a game piece from a game called Piratology), plus an Anne Bonney t-shirt (gosh, I love ebay!)
As for how I found that Nano thing on ebay (other than the fact that I'm an ebay princess)? I was looking for a Nano 2007 t-shirt from last year. By the time I went to buy one, they were sold out, so I thought maybe someone might have one for sale (I got smart and bought my 2008 Nano shirt early, which just arrived today!!) OK, so I get a bit odd at times. But it's a cool shirt (not as cool as wombat wear, however!)
MIKE- I WANTED TO BE SURE YOU SAW THIS - One person does NOT speak for the group. The Queen has said her piece, now you get it from the Countess. On a wombat thread, we talk about everything that is on anyone's mind (can you say "GO CHARGERS"???) whether or not it has to do with writing. We are most ESPECIALLY RESPECTFUL to those of our friends who are having a tough time in their personal lives (that would be you at the moment sugar), and we DON'T DO ANYTHING TO ADD TO THE GRIEF. In fact, we say, "GOSH, I'M SO SORRY YOU'RE HAVING A TOUGH TIME", and let people talk. You know, like when somebody wants to talk about work, or SCHOOL, or shoes, or the CHARGERS. You know, if they just randomly feel like posting chemical compounds and stuff, nobody gives them heartburn over it.
We just skip over it as being uninteresting or irrelevant to the discussion.
Unlike the economy, which is much on everyone's mind, and is relevant to everyone. One never knows what valuable information one can pick up. And who knows, and economist might end up in somebody's novel!
And THAT is "enuff" said.
And Vivian, the Boozer party sounds fine to me. We might wish to develop a more elegant sound name, though. Perhaps the Strong Spirits party? Sounds rather patriotic!
Pat B, you have a good start on a NaNo right there with that comment!
But I'm with you, there's just no way. The last few years my writing has been sooooo laborious, just a lot of hard work, hard to focus, procrastination, late nights...now that I have time, I am just trying to relax enough to up my productivity and take advantage of it. Yesterday was the first day in a long time where I really felt a sense of ease with the process.
So I have a screenplay to finish rewriting (just for fun), another one to finish for an old friend (because I owe her), some potential TV stuff with said friend (because we work well together and she actually works in the business) and most importantly, a new book. Because I can't sit around and wait for things to resolve with the one Agent X is shopping now, and I have to write stuff that's going to advance my so-called career (which is still waiting to be born, at this point).
BUT I want to have that WTF attitude that NaNo brings with it. To just write and relax and enjoy. So I think what I will do is set a Nov. 1 deadline to clear the decks of the current screenplay project and buckle down on the new book.
Pat B. I think that dialogue is brilliant. Not necessarily useful for your story, but change the characters and tweak the content and it has a wonderful rapport.
Thanks, Vivian. Now that you mention it, I think I can use it! The Chip can be talking to the guy who's changing the world. I need more of that anyway.
In the last thread Dale said, "Interesting. It looks like Ning (www.ning.com) is a kind of roll-your-own social network site. I did a search on science fiction and came up with over 100 pages worth of sites. Romance gave me 29 pages worth of sites. I'm not sure how many of these sites are worth looking at as authors and fans of these genres, but I'm going to check it out."
In my research into book marketing, I've been finding all sorts of ning sites. So far I've joined three for promotional ideas and two for book promotion. Since I have the best luck with blogs, I do plog posts at each site, participate in a couple of forums, but so far I haven't really gotten a feel for any of them. They seem more like places to visit rather than hang around.
If gather ever went bonkers, and everyone here wanted out, we could do our own social networking site.
Pat B, um do you always argue with your characters like this? lmao. Ah-ha! so You're the reason they call writers odd ducks, lololol! So, did you resolve the issue with Chip or is the poor cat still waiting at home?
Viv, I think you should go to bed earlier, lol! Look what happens when you sleep walk.
About the only thing good about daylight savings time is there's more light in the morning. I hate having to wake up when it's still dark outside and so does the kid.
Ok, I'm thinking I need at least another cup of coffee...
At Nano, it looks like they've temporarily turned off the Author Search (they do that during high traffic periods), but it makes it impossible to seach for new Nano buddies. Us me direct link to find me and add me as a buddy, so I can find my way back to you!
http://www.nanowrimo.org/eng/user/230403
Vivian, welcome to the madness! You won't be sorry! And Pat B., it's not about producing quality work, it's about remembering the joy of creation, and building a foundation you can remodel later. Just get words and scenes and conversation snippets out there. It doesn't have to make sense. Heck, you can probably even include your outline and stuff as part of the word count. Nano doesn't care. There's a tool that is used to scramble whatever you submit, and that's what it counts at the end. It's just a way of focusing on writing, to making a commitment to yourself. At least that's what it is for me this year. Last year it was all about "I've never written a novel, I wonder if I can?" This year, it's about refocusing and reenergizing my life, about setting directions. I bought a great bracelet that says "Embrace the Journey". That's what I'm doing with Nano. It's not about an end result, it's about the journey.
And for those who dont think they have the time or mental resources, I'll remind you again, when I did this last year, it was one of the busiest times of my life, including working 24 hour days. This is a time to remember that writing should not be a chore, should not be something you dread, and should not be just one more thing on your to-do list. Remember why you started writing. Because it is a creative outlet. It's engerizing. It gives you joy! So, embrace the journey and don't postpone joy (another one of my favorite phrases!)
Um, "us me" = "use my". OK, so I haven't had sufficient coffee yet. Or maybe it's too much already. I have my nifty new Nano coffee mug this morning, and it holds a medium sized Micky D's coffee!
I already regret it Pat, but you're right, life is fleeting. Better grab it while you can. Thanks for the clarification btw, in my self deprived brain, I parced it as "use me". Thought, wow! Pat is serious about this Nano thing.
Snuggling under the covers with a warm laptop and a cup a Joe. Mmmm... doesn't get any better than this.
A couple of little pockets of good news: (1) The solar power incentives that slid through on the back of the bailout plan a few weeks ago makes solar panels on your roof a much more attractive option. Put that together with state incentives and solar power is almost economical in Illinois in spite of our long cloudy winters, which means that sunbelt states with good state incentives are probably going to see a boom in solar panels going on peoples' roofs. (2) The army is going to diesel/electric trucks. What's the significance of that? Well, among other things, the trucks have a built-in 100 kilowatt electric generator to drive electric motors built into the wheels. That means that when a hurricane or some other natural disaster hits and knocks out electricity, the national guard should automatically be bringing in hundreds of emergency generators as they roll into an area. Stop the truck and it is automatically a generator. That will help a lot in emergencies.
As ACA, I will add my opinion. Mike has my permission to write about any damn thing he wants to.
Pat B., I like your dialog above. If you're stuck, you can do what I do... Invent a new character or expand the role of a minor character begging for more life. Part of my goal as a writer is to torture the reader. You want to know about what 'A' is up to? Too bad, I'm talking about 'B' now. Ha!
Ken you like to torture most people, so not readers? lol. Except occasionally, you get tortured. I'm thinking about Judy and lighthouses....lolol!
Interesting perception on voting, Dale. They've been playing with solar for some time. Be nice to see something actually come from it.
It's Friday. How's Jamie doing
Pat, if I entered, there'd go the joy of writing for me. Being aware of my limitations, I try not to bite off more than I can chew at any given time. Doesn't always work, but most of the time it does. A hard lesson learned for me. I'll stay here in the rah-rah section and cheer everyone on.
Mike, I want you to know you've created a monster. The sites you shared with me? Well child has been ooohing and aahing over them. I had to explain that these are bidding on the cars not the price and NO I'm not bidding on any muscle cars. See how you are? He really likes Barretts. How's your mom doing today? Any word back on your cousin?
Work is calling. Just got word from my DM that Kodak is working on the 2009 budget projections but so far it looks good. later 'Bats.
So Sia, I must address the elephant in the room. Is the pup still there?
If you break it down NaNo is only a bit less than 1700 words a day. That's not so bad, especially if you're on a roll. I'm off to edit today.. must get that done.
He's a tiny elephant though--just a pup. I wonder if I replace the mat with, Nice seeing you, You can leave now, will have any effect? I've tried telling him to go home. Blasted pup heads to the welcome mat. I've told him that I'm not nearly as nice as he thinks. Not buying it. sigh.....
Mom seems better today but then she's been sleeping for most of it so far.
Cousin won't have her MRI and other tests until the 28th and get the results on the 30th. The colon surgery she had yesterday did get most of it but because of treatments she received when we were in our 20's the treatments she can have now are limited.
It took me a while to catch up on the last thread and then this one.
I'm nanoing again this year. I approached last year's NaNo with no thoughts about my story except the genre. We'd just finished the romance contest here and I wanted to see if I could write romance. I think I got my lead characters' names the day before I began writing. Had no idea where the story was gonna go. Lots of fun to do it that way. Freeing in one sense. But writing under deadline was a good discipline for me too.
This year I have much more in the way of ideas. We'll see if that works for or against me. But if you have any desire at all to try something new, please join us. The encouragement helps. As does the competition, if that kind of thing moves you.
I'm glad she's doing better today Mike. Sleep is probably a good thing. Well, that's a good thing to here on the surgery. Yah, I know my nephew Ryan was in remission for about 8 or so years, for a brain tumor. Having had radiation--with very, very precise accuracy, he was limited as to the how much he could have when he came out of remission. It's a lot different now than it was 20 years ago, so she might be able to have a dose or two this round. Chemo is different now too than it was 20 years ago. So there's hope. let her know there are those keeping her in their thoughts and prayers, will you?
So, what are you bidding on Mike?
Pat, it's not like I don't have any dogs, for goodness sakes. I have 4 Great Danes, a rescued dog, and my Cocker, Jax. The Great Danes mostly pay for themselves. It's kinda like having six kids and having the doctor say congratulations, you're pregnant.
Mike, it's tough when family members are going through health problems. My mom is out of the rehab from her illness, but still getting settled back in at the homestead with lots of day to day help. She's used to a lot of freedom in structuring her day, so the more regimented approach has been a hard transition.
Like Sia, I'll be rooting for the wombat NaNo folks on the sidelines. The situation with my Mom is taking up time among other things. I'll write, but only when time permits. I also need to really put more time in on the marketing side.
It's felt like a long week. I'm looking forward to the weekend, though I'll be heading out West on Sunday. I'll bring along my trusty writing notebook.
Pat B, I liked your dialogue with Chip. You never know where characters will lead you; I've had good luck accepting the requests from characters who want to become a bigger part of my stories.
Radiation therapy has already been taken off the table. She can never receive radiation again due to the previous treatment and chemo options are limited. Don't remember what the specific reason is. Went back and looked at the notes from yesterday. It's one of the most aggressive forms but the good news was they caught it early this time.
Mike, so sorry about all the health problems in your family right now. Such a tough situation. Extending my best wishes to all.
Yep, Sia, has a new dog.
James, I'm glad your mom is doing better. Hope she is able to get back to her own routine ASAP.
I'm trying to hang in there today (my rope is a thread at this point). I've been going at full run since 7 am and am just now sitting down for the first time today. I'm exhausted and ready to become an assembly line worker or something a little less taxing on the brain. My brain is tired.
Yay, John! Knew we could count on you to join in. Hope the screenplay is finished soon. Is this the one with the scene where two young women are sitting at a table sharing "pleasuring devices"? That was your brain child, right? Or have I misfired a synapse again.
I'd better go get ready for lab. The son's girlfriend is coming to visit tomorrow, so I guess that means I get to clean house tonight. Already dreading it...
Go Nano writers! And for those on the sidelines, remember, we will need lots of caffeine, sugar-based goodies, hugs, and, especially towards the end, a kick in the pants and more than likely, mass quantities of adult beverages. And fudge. Can't do it without support!
Sia, the pup is obviously smart, if he can read the Welcome mat. Also for knowing a place where dogs are loved. So, congratulations, you're pregnant!
Mike and James, it's never easy. I'm lucky my mom seems to be recovering well from the heart attack. Hugs going out to both of you. You are fine sons, any mother would be proud of.
Sia, I've never before had a dialogue with my characters. I was trying to write whatever came to mind, and that was all that showed up. And yes, I did get him home, but he seems to sense what I have planned for him next, and he refuses to leave the house.
Ken, good suggestions. I'm not really blocked -- I know exactly what's coming for the next fifty pages or so, but my brain refuses to focus. Too much internet, I think. I might have to pull the plug.
Oh, man that is one sweet Camaro! Love the Madeira color. Much better than the Red one. And boy is it clean. L78 engine too. It was hard to see, but does it have dual pipes? If you get this, you'd better take a drive to Missouri.
A bit of self-preservation, eh Pat B? I have to step away from the internet frequently when I'm doing serious writing. Too much of a distraction. You might have noticed my disappearing acts here and there, lol!
Gee, thanks, Pat. You're all heart. I can hear that diabolical laugh from here. Wicked woman. Sure you wouldn't like to have a nice little 40lb hound of dubious origins? Just the thing for company for your baby....
James, glad to hear your mom is doing better and is at home. Being an independent woman, I can see where she would chafe at the regimentation.
Mike, it's good they caught it early. If she's like you, she's gonna be a fighter and sometimes it's that fighting spirit that makes the difference.
Jamie, poor you. Here's a nice frapacino, and some M & M's, chocolate at this point is a must. You will notice I still generously offer these things even tho you were disgustingly cheerful of my, um, whatever it is, dog. I know what Sean is going to be doing with mom, this evening.
Beth, have you heard anything back on your queries yet? Oh I hope one takes the story up. Wasn't there an agent or publisher that expressed an interest in this story from your RWA conference? Fingers crossed. I'm cheering you on for the NaNo.
Mike it is not nice to post such spectacular specimens of the american muscle car. Pfft.. now I have drool all over my keyboard.
I'm glad to hear your mom is doing better. It's so difficult to see someone you love in such a position. When the kids were little I used to say, "I'd rather take a beating than have them be sick." Now I feel that way about my mother.
James I hope your mom settles in soon. Loss of liberty is hard to swallow at any age..but it's really hard for the elderly.
Sia my heart goes out to you. My kids have hauled home a number of animals over the course of the years. Mean, evil, me made them find homes for them. Perhaps he just needs to be fostered for a bit. 40lbs? I hope he's 6mths or older.. cuz that could turn into, well a Dane. lol
Sometimes the people choose the pet and sometimes the pet chooses the people. Smart dog, IMO. He knows a good family when he sees one.
So my lab got over early. Am I leaving early? You bet your hot patootie, I am. After I pack up all my work to do over the weekend (collective groan, please), I'll be on my way.
Have you guys watched the American version of LIFE ON MARS yet? Lots of nice muscle cars in that! And 70s appearing film stock. It's kind of a cool show.
I can guarantee it's not a Dane nor is there a drop of Dane blood in the dog. Maybe 40 lbs. I haven't tried to pick him up to see--did I mention he still smells like skunk? I'd say he was about 6 months, maybe 5. Still doesn't lift his leg and shows I'm a cute puppy body language to the Danes. If I were to guess, I'd say it has beagle and hound and something else that gives his face a refined look.
Wendy, I'd love to find him a good home. I put up a flyer, lost pup found, please come and get him. We'll see. If he stays around here any length of time, I'm going to have to get out some vacs for him and I suspect he needs a good worming.
Mike, I couldn't tell either. Nothing in the blurb either. Keep me posted.
Sia, you may not be able to escape. Look deep into those eyes, yeah, he knows you're a sucker.
Mike, great car. Fun, fun, fun. I hope today is better than yesterday. Ill love ones is tough, there's nothing good I say, but I have you in my thoughts.
James elderly parents is a difficult time for everyone. May you find it easier than you think.
Beth and John find me on NaNO, that way I can feel shamed by everyone else's awesome efforts. VArcher. Ditto for late announcing Wombats.
Jamie have him help. Of course I just finished cleaning the hardwood and tiled floors by myself. Boy I'm hungry. Washed the runners and door mats too. Yip!
Lisa, another friend mentioned Life on Mars, but I haven't seen it yet.
Sia, I'm hanging my head since I have yet to query that story. Worked on it again last night and intended to get it off today, but had more to do than planned. Perhaps I'll finish it up tonight and just send the thing.
A little rain, Friday afternoon, and the drivers here turn into maniacs. What is it about rain that makes drivers crazy? Except for the fact that we don't see it often? But, Jamie? We're catching up with the rest of the country price wise on gas. Down under $3! Yeah! That's more than a 60 cent drop in a week. I like it.
Watch out for Jamie and John with their NaNos. We'll be eating their dust.
Seems like my comment got eaten. Prolly by Sia's new dog. We all knew you were keeping him from your very first post, dear.
I am out of nano, due to that terrible distraction known as life. To describe it fully would take longer that one of Dale's longer comments, but suffice it to say it has the following elements: looking for a job, keeping the old job, moving, travel, romance, children (of all ages), tax and financial issues, legal battles with foreign entities, and so on. Sort of sounds like a nano right there. I just dont have time to write it all down.
Pat, I appreciate the pep talk! You're so good at that. Maybe you could make some motivational speeches for Jamie. (Like you don't have enough to do already.)
And Sia, now I know how my mother felt--I'm the seventh child. :-)
I would love to do Nano, but the format doesn't allow for finishing up WIPS. and I really need to be finishing up WIPS rather than starting something new. I've got a novel that has been two-thirds to three-quarters done for a couple of years. Got to move off the dime on that one, then do one more major revision of Bear Country (And come up with a better title). Once I get that all done I'll be ready to write something new. Maybe next year.
Sy: "One of Dale's longer messages': I'm trying to reform on that.
Lisa, love Life on Mars (my Nano is about a guy on the real Mars). But it has the problem we have with British imports - they only had 12 odd shows. Can they keep this going for several seasons?
Vivian, already buddied up with you on Nano. Pat too.
Jamie, the vibrator on the restaurant table was mine, but this screenplay is about a robot pulling a bank heist. After hours of playing with structure with my mentor, I've decide that the robot has to be the protagonist. That's what's causing the rewrite angst.
( I tried "Madre Authora" on Nano and got nothing. Beth?)
John it was a art history joke, sorry Madre Cultura, is Mother Culture and I liken Beth to the source or font by making her the Mother Author. Sorry for the maternal connotation Beth, but it flew in my head. Though you do make me think of apple pie and coca-cola Beth, maybe there is more to this.
John- Click on one of your Wombat buddies and they will have all their buddies listed you can then just click on Beth, to add her as a buddy.
Beaker I added you check the other tab (I forget what they call it) on the buddies page and I should be there. Then you can click on the link and add me to your buddies. I did this to add Beth who was kind enough to find me first, then I backtracked from her to all of you.
Wendy, I'll take some Pepperoni pizza and coke, I have my own rum and a lime tree :-P I also have two Meyer lemons, 1 reg. lemon, and one ingrate blood orange.
It's a beautiful day today, Vivian. I've been sorta stuck at home waiting for UPS but they have come and gone. So I made myself lunch/dinner and am just digesting for a bit before going out for a walk. Not as long a one as I'd like with it getting dark so much earlier (yep, it's that time of year) but a couple of hours at least. Now I have to figure out where I feel like going.
Beth, didn't you pitch this story to them at the conference? I believe I saw that. So, yes'um, I do believe you need to strike while the iron is hot, so to speak. Especially since this person spoke with you and you're more than a name to her....just sayin'.
Wendy, I figure John has not reached the age of early grampa-hood without knowing very well how to take care of himself and a few ladies too....
Sy, so far as I know, this dog eats about anything but comments and paper. I'd asy your life has all the makings of an epic, at the very least. But hey, you got romance baby. that counts for something.
Dale, reformation is vastly over rated. You'll find something fascinating and share it with us by painting us a picture with words. It always takes a few words to do that. :-)
Gosh, Ken, if you let the man take a shower now and then, he might not sulk so much...
Hey Sy, there's this guy online, actually on Ebay. And he's looking for characters. And he'll turn your story into this amazing S & M novel. What do you think? What's that? Not your bag?
Seriously, it sounds like your plate overrunneth. Keep us posted on how it goes.
Thanks to all for the support on my mom's health and aging issues. This has been coming for quite a while, but the changes are not easy for any of us. We'll keep working on it.
Jamie, I thought you were dragging with exhaustion and now you want to party? Can I have some of whatever restorative you drinking? Maybe it a fantabulous energy/vitamin pill? whatever, I'll take it, lol!
James, you are so bad, lord, can you imagine what that guy would do with a story? Never mind.
Sia, now you see the reason for hanging my head in shame.
Vivian, me and mother in the same sentence? There's an oddity for you.
Quiet night. I guess that means I could type up that query that's handwritten on 3 sheets of paper and get cracking. Judi helped me with it a couple weeks ago, but I just made other changes yesterday.
If you read this about a book, what would you think? A Knight's Tale with a Lord of the Rings Sensibility
sensibility? Feels odd to me or I think of Sense and sensibility. Not that my suggestions are great either. Flavor? Feeling? With the essence of the LOR or with the spirit of lord of the rings? I need a thesaurus...
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I wish I had something more exciting to share with y'all, but I'm dead tired.. zzzzzz
Bertram: I really want to know. What would be doing if you weren’t talking to me?
Chip: Going home. I have a cat waiting for me. You’ve left us alone so long, it’s probably gone by now.
Bertram: Not yet, he’s still waiting for you. And he’s doing well. He’s quite a self-sufficient creature, you know.
Chip: It. It’s an it, not a he. “He assumes humanness, and it’s a higher life form than any human I’ve ever met.
Bertram: Okay. It’s waiting for you.
Chip: I hear that patronizing tone in your voice. I don’t have to put up with it.
Bertram: Oh, but you do. I’ve pledged to write 2000 words tonight, and since you’re not giving me anything to work with, we’re going to keep at this until you do.
Chip: What do you need from me?
Bertram: Something to make you real in my head so that I can hardly wait to work on your story everyday. Something that excites me so that I can’t stop thinking about it.
Chip: No one can do that. You’ve read so much you’re jaded, and now you expect me to supply the excitement you once found while reading. But at least you’re working again.
Bertram: But the writing is awful. I can’t use any of it for the book.
Chip: So? I thought the point was to write whatever flows out of your mind.
Bertram: I didn’t expect such drivel. I’d hoped for magic.
Chip: We all hope for magic. Few of us get it.
Bertram: Now we’re getting somewhere. Did you hope for magic?
Chip: Maybe.
Bertram: Then you got it, didn’t you? One day your world was the same as it always was, and the next . . .
Chip: It changed. Nothing is the same. Nothing is real.
Bertram: How does that make you feel?
Chip: What are you, my therapist?
Bertram: Just answer the question.
Chip: It makes me feel frightened. Awed. Unsettled. Lonely. Desperate. Excited. Except for the bugs. I can do without those.
Bertram: You have to admit, it’s interesting for a character who professes to love animals to have an aversion to bugs.
Chip: Big bugs. Two-inch beetles. Seven-foot millipedes. Next thing I know, you’re going to have dragonflies with six-foot wingspans.
Bertram: Great idea, but I don’t want to overdo the bug thing.
Chip: Believe me, I don’t want you to overdo it either. Can I go home now?
Bertram: As soon as you give me something to work with.
Chip: Looks like it’s going to be a very long night.
As for how I found that Nano thing on ebay (other than the fact that I'm an ebay princess)? I was looking for a Nano 2007 t-shirt from last year. By the time I went to buy one, they were sold out, so I thought maybe someone might have one for sale (I got smart and bought my 2008 Nano shirt early, which just arrived today!!) OK, so I get a bit odd at times. But it's a cool shirt (not as cool as wombat wear, however!)
MIKE- I WANTED TO BE SURE YOU SAW THIS - One person does NOT speak for the group. The Queen has said her piece, now you get it from the Countess. On a wombat thread, we talk about everything that is on anyone's mind (can you say "GO CHARGERS"???) whether or not it has to do with writing. We are most ESPECIALLY RESPECTFUL to those of our friends who are having a tough time in their personal lives (that would be you at the moment sugar), and we DON'T DO ANYTHING TO ADD TO THE GRIEF. In fact, we say, "GOSH, I'M SO SORRY YOU'RE HAVING A TOUGH TIME", and let people talk. You know, like when somebody wants to talk about work, or SCHOOL, or shoes, or the CHARGERS. You know, if they just randomly feel like posting chemical compounds and stuff, nobody gives them heartburn over it.
We just skip over it as being uninteresting or irrelevant to the discussion.
Unlike the economy, which is much on everyone's mind, and is relevant to everyone. One never knows what valuable information one can pick up. And who knows, and economist might end up in somebody's novel!
And THAT is "enuff" said.
And Vivian, the Boozer party sounds fine to me. We might wish to develop a more elegant sound name, though. Perhaps the Strong Spirits party? Sounds rather patriotic!
Good night my dears and darlings!
I just had to add that for emphasis.
Pat B, you have a good start on a NaNo right there with that comment!
But I'm with you, there's just no way. The last few years my writing has been sooooo laborious, just a lot of hard work, hard to focus, procrastination, late nights...now that I have time, I am just trying to relax enough to up my productivity and take advantage of it. Yesterday was the first day in a long time where I really felt a sense of ease with the process.
So I have a screenplay to finish rewriting (just for fun), another one to finish for an old friend (because I owe her), some potential TV stuff with said friend (because we work well together and she actually works in the business) and most importantly, a new book. Because I can't sit around and wait for things to resolve with the one Agent X is shopping now, and I have to write stuff that's going to advance my so-called career (which is still waiting to be born, at this point).
BUT I want to have that WTF attitude that NaNo brings with it. To just write and relax and enjoy. So I think what I will do is set a Nov. 1 deadline to clear the decks of the current screenplay project and buckle down on the new book.
I'll be with y'all in spirit, NaNoWriters!
Pat B. I think that dialogue is brilliant. Not necessarily useful for your story, but change the characters and tweak the content and it has a wonderful rapport.
Go Lisa, Go!
In my research into book marketing, I've been finding all sorts of ning sites. So far I've joined three for promotional ideas and two for book promotion. Since I have the best luck with blogs, I do plog posts at each site, participate in a couple of forums, but so far I haven't really gotten a feel for any of them. They seem more like places to visit rather than hang around.
If gather ever went bonkers, and everyone here wanted out, we could do our own social networking site.
Pat, I'm with you on your rant, lol!
Lisa, I think it takes time to get used to another lifestyle and schedule. I' glad to hear you're relaxing.
Over use works for me, Pat B....
time for bed, later all...
Sleep deep and good dreams...
Just somnambulating, pay no attention.
Pat B, um do you always argue with your characters like this? lmao. Ah-ha! so You're the reason they call writers odd ducks, lololol! So, did you resolve the issue with Chip or is the poor cat still waiting at home?
Viv, I think you should go to bed earlier, lol! Look what happens when you sleep walk.
About the only thing good about daylight savings time is there's more light in the morning. I hate having to wake up when it's still dark outside and so does the kid.
Ok, I'm thinking I need at least another cup of coffee...
At Nano, it looks like they've temporarily turned off the Author Search (they do that during high traffic periods), but it makes it impossible to seach for new Nano buddies. Us me direct link to find me and add me as a buddy, so I can find my way back to you!
http://www.nanowrimo.org/eng/user/230403
Vivian, welcome to the madness! You won't be sorry! And Pat B., it's not about producing quality work, it's about remembering the joy of creation, and building a foundation you can remodel later. Just get words and scenes and conversation snippets out there. It doesn't have to make sense. Heck, you can probably even include your outline and stuff as part of the word count. Nano doesn't care. There's a tool that is used to scramble whatever you submit, and that's what it counts at the end. It's just a way of focusing on writing, to making a commitment to yourself. At least that's what it is for me this year. Last year it was all about "I've never written a novel, I wonder if I can?" This year, it's about refocusing and reenergizing my life, about setting directions. I bought a great bracelet that says "Embrace the Journey". That's what I'm doing with Nano. It's not about an end result, it's about the journey.
And for those who dont think they have the time or mental resources, I'll remind you again, when I did this last year, it was one of the busiest times of my life, including working 24 hour days. This is a time to remember that writing should not be a chore, should not be something you dread, and should not be just one more thing on your to-do list. Remember why you started writing. Because it is a creative outlet. It's engerizing. It gives you joy! So, embrace the journey and don't postpone joy (another one of my favorite phrases!)
There. Now you've had your Friday pep talk!
Snuggling under the covers with a warm laptop and a cup a Joe. Mmmm... doesn't get any better than this.
Pat B., I like your dialog above. If you're stuck, you can do what I do... Invent a new character or expand the role of a minor character begging for more life. Part of my goal as a writer is to torture the reader. You want to know about what 'A' is up to? Too bad, I'm talking about 'B' now. Ha!
Interesting perception on voting, Dale. They've been playing with solar for some time. Be nice to see something actually come from it.
It's Friday. How's Jamie doing
Pat, if I entered, there'd go the joy of writing for me. Being aware of my limitations, I try not to bite off more than I can chew at any given time. Doesn't always work, but most of the time it does. A hard lesson learned for me. I'll stay here in the rah-rah section and cheer everyone on.
Mike, I want you to know you've created a monster. The sites you shared with me? Well child has been ooohing and aahing over them. I had to explain that these are bidding on the cars not the price and NO I'm not bidding on any muscle cars. See how you are? He really likes Barretts. How's your mom doing today? Any word back on your cousin?
Work is calling. Just got word from my DM that Kodak is working on the 2009 budget projections but so far it looks good. later 'Bats.
If you break it down NaNo is only a bit less than 1700 words a day. That's not so bad, especially if you're on a roll. I'm off to edit today.. must get that done.
Mom seems better today but then she's been sleeping for most of it so far.
Cousin won't have her MRI and other tests until the 28th and get the results on the 30th. The colon surgery she had yesterday did get most of it but because of treatments she received when we were in our 20's the treatments she can have now are limited.
Thanks for asking, Sia.
I'm nanoing again this year. I approached last year's NaNo with no thoughts about my story except the genre. We'd just finished the romance contest here and I wanted to see if I could write romance. I think I got my lead characters' names the day before I began writing. Had no idea where the story was gonna go. Lots of fun to do it that way. Freeing in one sense. But writing under deadline was a good discipline for me too.
This year I have much more in the way of ideas. We'll see if that works for or against me. But if you have any desire at all to try something new, please join us. The encouragement helps. As does the competition, if that kind of thing moves you.
So, what are you bidding on Mike?
Pat, it's not like I don't have any dogs, for goodness sakes. I have 4 Great Danes, a rescued dog, and my Cocker, Jax. The Great Danes mostly pay for themselves. It's kinda like having six kids and having the doctor say congratulations, you're pregnant.
Like Sia, I'll be rooting for the wombat NaNo folks on the sidelines. The situation with my Mom is taking up time among other things. I'll write, but only when time permits. I also need to really put more time in on the marketing side.
It's felt like a long week. I'm looking forward to the weekend, though I'll be heading out West on Sunday. I'll bring along my trusty writing notebook.
Pat B, I liked your dialogue with Chip. You never know where characters will lead you; I've had good luck accepting the requests from characters who want to become a bigger part of my stories.
http://www.writersdigest.com/popularfictionawards
Sorry, my cheat sheet for clickable links is elsewhere.
Radiation therapy has already been taken off the table. She can never receive radiation again due to the previous treatment and chemo options are limited. Don't remember what the specific reason is. Went back and looked at the notes from yesterday. It's one of the most aggressive forms but the good news was they caught it early this time.
Mike, so sorry about all the health problems in your family right now. Such a tough situation. Extending my best wishes to all.
Yep, Sia, has a new dog.
James, I'm glad your mom is doing better. Hope she is able to get back to her own routine ASAP.
I'm trying to hang in there today (my rope is a thread at this point). I've been going at full run since 7 am and am just now sitting down for the first time today. I'm exhausted and ready to become an assembly line worker or something a little less taxing on the brain. My brain is tired.
Yay, John! Knew we could count on you to join in. Hope the screenplay is finished soon. Is this the one with the scene where two young women are sitting at a table sharing "pleasuring devices"? That was your brain child, right? Or have I misfired a synapse again.
I'd better go get ready for lab. The son's girlfriend is coming to visit tomorrow, so I guess that means I get to clean house tonight. Already dreading it...
Sia, the pup is obviously smart, if he can read the Welcome mat. Also for knowing a place where dogs are loved. So, congratulations, you're pregnant!
Mike and James, it's never easy. I'm lucky my mom seems to be recovering well from the heart attack. Hugs going out to both of you. You are fine sons, any mother would be proud of.
OK, back to work!
Ken, good suggestions. I'm not really blocked -- I know exactly what's coming for the next fifty pages or so, but my brain refuses to focus. Too much internet, I think. I might have to pull the plug.
A bit of self-preservation, eh Pat B? I have to step away from the internet frequently when I'm doing serious writing. Too much of a distraction. You might have noticed my disappearing acts here and there, lol!
Gee, thanks, Pat. You're all heart. I can hear that diabolical laugh from here. Wicked woman. Sure you wouldn't like to have a nice little 40lb hound of dubious origins? Just the thing for company for your baby....
James, glad to hear your mom is doing better and is at home. Being an independent woman, I can see where she would chafe at the regimentation.
Mike, it's good they caught it early. If she's like you, she's gonna be a fighter and sometimes it's that fighting spirit that makes the difference.
Jamie, poor you. Here's a nice frapacino, and some M & M's, chocolate at this point is a must. You will notice I still generously offer these things even tho you were disgustingly cheerful of my, um, whatever it is, dog. I know what Sean is going to be doing with mom, this evening.
Beth, have you heard anything back on your queries yet? Oh I hope one takes the story up. Wasn't there an agent or publisher that expressed an interest in this story from your RWA conference? Fingers crossed. I'm cheering you on for the NaNo.
I'm glad to hear your mom is doing better. It's so difficult to see someone you love in such a position. When the kids were little I used to say, "I'd rather take a beating than have them be sick." Now I feel that way about my mother.
James I hope your mom settles in soon. Loss of liberty is hard to swallow at any age..but it's really hard for the elderly.
Sia my heart goes out to you. My kids have hauled home a number of animals over the course of the years. Mean, evil, me made them find homes for them. Perhaps he just needs to be fostered for a bit. 40lbs? I hope he's 6mths or older.. cuz that could turn into, well a Dane. lol
So my lab got over early. Am I leaving early? You bet your hot patootie, I am. After I pack up all my work to do over the weekend (collective groan, please), I'll be on my way.
Wendy, I'd love to find him a good home. I put up a flyer, lost pup found, please come and get him. We'll see. If he stays around here any length of time, I'm going to have to get out some vacs for him and I suspect he needs a good worming.
Mike, I couldn't tell either. Nothing in the blurb either. Keep me posted.
Mike, great car. Fun, fun, fun. I hope today is better than yesterday. Ill love ones is tough, there's nothing good I say, but I have you in my thoughts.
James elderly parents is a difficult time for everyone. May you find it easier than you think.
Beth and John find me on NaNO, that way I can feel shamed by everyone else's awesome efforts. VArcher. Ditto for late announcing Wombats.
Jamie have him help. Of course I just finished cleaning the hardwood and tiled floors by myself. Boy I'm hungry. Washed the runners and door mats too. Yip!
Sia, I'm hanging my head since I have yet to query that story. Worked on it again last night and intended to get it off today, but had more to do than planned. Perhaps I'll finish it up tonight and just send the thing.
A little rain, Friday afternoon, and the drivers here turn into maniacs. What is it about rain that makes drivers crazy? Except for the fact that we don't see it often? But, Jamie? We're catching up with the rest of the country price wise on gas. Down under $3! Yeah! That's more than a 60 cent drop in a week. I like it.
Watch out for Jamie and John with their NaNos. We'll be eating their dust.
I am out of nano, due to that terrible distraction known as life. To describe it fully would take longer that one of Dale's longer comments, but suffice it to say it has the following elements: looking for a job, keeping the old job, moving, travel, romance, children (of all ages), tax and financial issues, legal battles with foreign entities, and so on. Sort of sounds like a nano right there. I just dont have time to write it all down.
And Sia, now I know how my mother felt--I'm the seventh child. :-)
Sy: "One of Dale's longer messages': I'm trying to reform on that.
Vivian, already buddied up with you on Nano. Pat too.
Jamie, the vibrator on the restaurant table was mine, but this screenplay is about a robot pulling a bank heist. After hours of playing with structure with my mentor, I've decide that the robot has to be the protagonist. That's what's causing the rewrite angst.
( I tried "Madre Authora" on Nano and got nothing. Beth?)
John- Click on one of your Wombat buddies and they will have all their buddies listed you can then just click on Beth, to add her as a buddy.
Come on guys.. you don't want to leave John alone with us now do you?
Note, I have the shovel..mwahwahahahahahaha!
Ordering pizza now.
I hope everyone is having too much fun to be online. Wandering.
There's a keg of root beer on ice in the corner. The rum is hidden, don't even think about it.
Wendy, I'll take some Pepperoni pizza and coke, I have my own rum and a lime tree :-P
I also have two Meyer lemons, 1 reg. lemon, and one ingrate blood orange.
Wendy, I figure John has not reached the age of early grampa-hood without knowing very well how to take care of himself and a few ladies too....
Sy, so far as I know, this dog eats about anything but comments and paper. I'd asy your life has all the makings of an epic, at the very least. But hey, you got romance baby. that counts for something.
Gosh, Ken, if you let the man take a shower now and then, he might not sulk so much...
Seriously, it sounds like your plate overrunneth. Keep us posted on how it goes.
Thanks to all for the support on my mom's health and aging issues. This has been coming for quite a while, but the changes are not easy for any of us. We'll keep working on it.
Jamie, the party is where ever you are.
James, you are so bad, lord, can you imagine what that guy would do with a story? Never mind.
Vivian, me and mother in the same sentence? There's an oddity for you.
Quiet night. I guess that means I could type up that query that's handwritten on 3 sheets of paper and get cracking. Judi helped me with it a couple weeks ago, but I just made other changes yesterday.
If you read this about a book, what would you think? A Knight's Tale with a Lord of the Rings Sensibility
I have a kitty sharing my lap with the laptop. Watching dumb TV till 9 and then I need to read some things and then I have to write.