So, a few years ago, I did the whole NaNoWriMo thing. 

What in the world is that, you ask?  NaNoWriMo stands for National Novel Writing Month, and it is, essentially, a big, swift kick in the pants to finally write that novel you’ve been saying you’d write.  You have from November 1st until November 30th to finish a 50,000 word novel.  Quantity is more important than content because simply sitting down and getting it done is a feat in and of itself.

Back when I did it, I was sure that 50,000 words in thirty days was going to be a challenge.  I managed to complete my “novel” (and I use that term loosely, because it was bad, y’all) in eighteen days, though, so it was easier than I thought.  If you’ve read my most recent novella, Even Still, you’ve read some of that NaNoWriMo novel, as parts of it were used for Abby and Stu’s story. 

If you’ve EVER thought about writing a novel, I encourage you to do this whole NaNoWriMo thing.  There’s something about giving yourself a goal and a deadline that makes the process that much more “real,” and you’ll be amazed by how much more productive you can be if you clarify what you’re working towards.  The novels I’m releasing in December and March (along with another novella for mid-January) are in the revision stage right now, so I have the gift of time this next month to be a part of NaNoWriMo this year.  I’m planning on putting my efforts towards a very special project for two very special young readers. So excited!

Anyone else out there want to join me this year?