NaNoWriMo starts today!

I have participated 11 times since signing up in 2006 and have three “wins” under my belt. Maybe not the best track record, but whether or not I hit the 50,000 word goal I am always just as excited to begin the journey as I was the first time. I’m getting some writing done, and that’s all that matters. I like to write fanfiction for NaNo because it alleviates a lot of the stress for me, but I’ve also written original pieces and won with one of the attempts. Never completely finished any of them, but there’s still time…

I write alone, and got into the habit because for the first few years there weren’t any regional meet-ups in my area, and when there were… I’m a homebody, love writing with certain movies playing in the background, surrounded by snacks and cups of tea or coffee and my cats. Maybe someday I’ll find my way to a meet-up and kick myself for not going to one sooner, but until then, it’s me and my cats.

My taller half has learned to ignore me when I inevitably begin muttering to myself (even more than usual) in November, listens to my convoluted ramblings as I try to work through a plot point I’m still not sure of, and “helpfully” eats some of my snacks to make sure I’m not stress-eating too much junk food. #Teamwork.

Prepping for the month includes clearing off my desk, hoarding Halloween candy and pretzels, checking on (and re-stocking as need be) my supply of Earl Grey, loading my Starbucks card, and creating a calendar and a schedule for writing (and homework and regular work – oh my!). 

I used to read No Plot? No Problem! by NaNo founder Chris Baty cover to cover every year, but it is now burned into my brain and I only do a quick skim the last week of October as a refresher. Still, I keep it handy all of November like a favorite talisman.

I started researching for the story I plan to write back in August because it is based on the tv show “Versailles” which takes place in 17th century France in the court of Louis XIV and that is not my area of expertise. There will be demons, witches, hunters, and two exceptionally fashionable idiots in love. I cannot wait to get writing!

Anyone else participating?

P.S. My Chemical Romance announced a reunion show yesterday!!! #Return