Dreams

The other day my sister told me I sounded like a fifteen-year-old girl talking about how I’m going to be famous and rich and have everything I’ve always wanted. It annoyed me, but when I asked myself why, it got me thinking about dreams. Some people don’t dream at all, because they are afraid they’ll never get it and it will hurt more than they could stand. When I started thinking from the perspective, I pulled up the question: What is the worst that can happen from working on these novels with Joey?

The Worst:

One would think the worst that could happen is failing: we never finish the book, nobody wants to publish it or it gets published and no one likes it. That would be pretty bad, but I’d still have the experience of being a novelist, something I never thought I’d actually have. Not to mention, we’re only a few chapters from the end of the rough draft, so I don’t think the first failure, of not finishing the novel, will happen. There is still the chance that no one will publish it or like it, but I find that doubtful.
We’re writing with our contemporaries, much like every time period I ever studied in British, American, or World lit. The classes are all about, “How is this similar to who came before and how is it different?” We are taking what is popular at the time and integrating the elements we like while making fun of the elements that we dislike.
And if no one likes what we write, we still have the experience, one that has brought Joey and I closer together than I thought possible. Which brings me to the absolute worst thing that could happen in this venture, and it could happen before or during publishing: something could turn into a huge argument between us and end our friendship forever.

I don’t think this could possibly happen. If it was going to, I imagine it would’ve happened already. Luckily for us, we’ve spent a lot of time fighting about useless things in the duration of our friendship and have therefore learned how to navigate an argument into something useful; every time we have an argument about the book, the story gets even better.

The Best:

Obviously the best case scenario is that our book catches the world’s imagination and we soar into the consciousness of our audience. That I’ll become a New York Times bestselling author, something I’ve wanted since I read Stephanie Plum and saw that splashed on every one of Evanovich’s books.  And maybe saying things like that does sound naïve. But if I didn’t go after this chance, I would be absolutely insane, especially since the worst that can happen seems so utterly unlikely. Let them say no to us; they can’t take away the artistic genius that has come from our writing partnership or the fun we’ve had along the way.

I Love J. K. Rowling … and Joey

I, Joey, have taken the liberty of rewriting this conversation (which happened through AIM).  It’s more fun this way. Haha!

Sitting at their respective computers, the dual headed creature of R. J. Spindle ponders and dreams of their future.  They are talking about their favorite books, and how much fun it is writing their commentaries.  Joey perks up and says how he can’t wait to hear what his readers have to say about their stories.

“I wonder how many ideas JKR got from her readers?” Joey says.

“We’ll ask her someday,” answers Rhiannon.

Joey plants a devilish grin on his face, “And then I’ll say, ‘Here’s another idea from a reader … write another Potterverse book!’”

“NOOOOW,” Rhiannon bellows.  “SIT–HERE is a pen–GO!”

“Haha!” says Joey.  “We’re going to be SO cheeky.”

Rhiannon lets out a cackle, “Poor British Rowling isn’t going to know how to handle us.”

They both laugh heartily.  Then, Joey expression becomes serious.  “Something tells me we’ll both be slightly terrified at the same time.”  He sticks out his tongue.

“Hell yeah,” says Rhiannon.  “but I’ll channel it into being even giddier … like a do.”

Joey laughs again, and starts bouncing around his bedroom.

“And she’ll be like OMGCRAZYAMERICAN!”

“AAAAAAAAAH!” Joey runs and hides under his bed-covers, frightened by the loud noises coming from the Rhianno-Monster.

“And she’ll fight me with a handbag that she stole from the queen!”

Joey then pokes his head out from under the blanket, not being able to resist adding his two cents, “and I’ll be like, ‘HEY! YOU CAN AFFORD TO BUY YOUR OWN … leave the poor queen alone.’”  He sticks his tongue out again.

Rhiannon then lies on the floor, defeated by a fit of giggles.

And that, my friends, is you’re normal, everyday, conversation between Rhiannon and Joey-seph.  Thanks for reading!

On Turning 25

Once a year I try and check in with myself and write all the things I learned the previous year.  On the surface, this year seems to be one of my least productive.  I haven’t moved.  I haven’t changed jobs.  I haven’t even finished writing the novel yet.  It was our intention to have the first draft done by the first of December.  This list of things I meant to do, but didn’t is short.  All were goals I set when I turned 24.

Dreams of Travel

I knew when I started the year that I’d still be in New Hampshire by the end of the year.  I want to travel the world.  I want to live in France and Australia and Alaska.  I want to hike the whole of the Appalachian Trail and the Alps–maybe even look into climbing Everest!  I realize my fatal mistake in seeing these dreams come about was the knowing I had about being in New Hampshire.

Dreams Jobs

As for the job.  I started looking for a new one when I was closing in on my two year mark at the grocery store.  I even started looking again recently.  Neither instance was fruitless, but I realized something, and a solution presented itself.  The job I have is a means to an end.  The only reason I have it is to make money to pay the few bill I have … I hate to impose on my mother’s kindness, but she’ll be rewarded with coming harvest from these books we are writing.

The only “job” I will ever find fully satisfactory is writing.  I’ve rediscovered some old, handwritten, journals, and I’m working at completing them.  True, Rhiannon and I have decided to take a break from writing until the first of the year, but we both think the rest will bring us back with renewed strength.

I’m using the time to rest, read voraciously, do some crafts (I love embroidery), and write some short stories unrelated to Taftka.  I’m living my dream job.  The money will follow.  It always does, and that’s what we’re working towards with the patience of the gods of old … which, I must admit, wasn’t that long, haha!

Dreaming a Novel Finished

It was hard approaching December without a finished draft.  I attempted to use NaNoWriMo to sprint to the end.  Although I wrote a lot in November–and some great stuff at that–the novel still has nine chapters and an appendix before it’s complete.  And the appendix is currently up in the air.

If I learned how to write between 23 years and 24 years, then I learned how to write with a partner between 24 years and 25 years.  Rhiannon and I have learned to talk to each other at levels I’ve never experienced before.  The meshing of our thoughts is uncanny at times.  We’ve learned how to discuss without arguing, and if we DO argue it’s always productive.

We’ve arrived at places in the story planned and they transform in the writing process into something similar, but radically better than the original concept.  The story has really taken on a life of it’s own.  As long as I arrive at the keyboard images flash in my mind, and words flow through my fingers.  I’ve learned to let go of control and let the characters show me what happens.

What I Dream For Sure

The dream of completing and publishing this novel in the next year still stands.  I know once it is finished I will start traveling.  I may not go on any of the grand journey’s I mentioned earlier, but I’ll surely visit my family in Florida.  I’m feeling the pull, and I’d like to feel the heat again.

I dream Rhiannon and I will find the perfect agent.  I have one in mind, and she would be amazing for us.  I have her profile printed and posted on the wall in my room, and she reminds me of my goal.  We capture every facet of what she’s looking for in an author and material.  We also think that our plan to write a series will work in our advantage in getting published.

We’re bringing something different to the game.  We’re bringing everything we are … which is something every author must do, come to think of it.  For now, “I’ll blow my horn ’til someone blows it.”  Here’s to another year for personal transformation and progress towards the goal.  It’s closer that I even know.

So Long NaNoWriMo

I wrote over 80,000 words in the month of November, and the novel still has ten chapters left to go.  Sure, I didn’t follow all the rules, but it was a very productive month nonetheless.  I hope to get the book done before the holidays, but if that doesn’t happen, I won’t be too disappointed.

I’m in it for the long haul though.  Here’s to getting draft one done!

Did’ja Eva Have Da Feelin’ Dat Ya Wanned NaNoWriMo?

Word Count: 63,265 of 50,000

I wasn’t going to do one of these tonight.  Then I thought, what the hell (you know?)–I needed another distraction from reading.  Yeah, reading.  I need to STOP myself from writing at this point.  I’ve found such a great flow in the story, and I’m doing everything I can to prevent burning out.  I want this to keep going.

Reading regularly usually helps me to write.  If I don’t read for a long period of time, it gets harder to keep myself in the chair and surrendered to the powers of inspiration.  At present I am reading Pride and Prejudice AND Pride and Prejudice and Zombies.  I should have the commentary to it up in a few days.

I guess I’ll get to it then.  Thanks for reading!

Oh My NaNoWriMo!

Word Count: 55, 435 of 50,000

Officially surpassed the NaNoWriMo word count goal today!  We’ve been making exciting leaps and bounds in the story.  It’s fun discovering things that work themselves into the plan, but are entirely unplanned.

I find that that is very helpful when it comes to writing.  Allowing for surprised.  New characters spring themselves into the story, adding flavor to “boring but necessary” scenes that come in between the big events of the story.

Does anyone else find their characters running into unexpected, yet great turns?  They don’t necessarily effect the plot, but they add a dimension that wasn’t there in the planning stages.  It’s exciting.

I have tomorrow off from the J. O. B.  I’m sure I’m going to get a lot of writing done.  My goal is 10,000 words for tomorrow alone, but that is pending on getting other things done as well.  Gotta write with Rosie for a bit, I want to pound an article out for the site, and I have to get some reading in.

I’ll probably read tonight.  Pride and Prejudice and Zombies is rather entertaining.

NaNoWriMo Boo Boo

Word Count: 41,467 of 50,000

You can’t catch me!  I’m off and running.  More than halfway through the story, and I’m feeling good.  The kids are back in the magical world, and things continue to play out better than planned.

There are all kinds of elements coming together in this story.  I feel like I’m racing towards the finish, seeing the sum of all the hard work that has brought me her.  I’m proud of this journey.

Anyone else experiencing an easier time than they thought?

Writing With Rosie

If I’ve never introduced my sister to you all, let me take this opportunity.  She is not a WriMo…at least not yet, but she is a writer.  She’s had this story in her head for AGES (three years to be exact), and I’ve tried my darnedest to get her to start writing it.

Collaboration seems to be the way I do things nowadays.  Working in a team is my ideal way to work.  Go figure.  Me!  I used to be such a loner.  I digress.  I’m headed over Rosie’s house this afternoon.  Gonna play with my nephew and we’re going to write some of her story.

I’ve planned for Rosie’s funny stories about two middle aged “ladies” of Vermont to be a regular feature on this site.  “The Misadventures of Miss Happs and Miss Fortune” are sure to make many chuckle…or at least raise a few eyebrows. The first chapter will be posted either late tonight or tomorrow.  Check back or subscribe to our RSS feed.

There’s No Place Like NaNoWriMo

Word Count: 34,647 of 50,000

Not bad for the sixth day of writing.  Hah.  I’m sorry.  I know we got a head start, but it’s working!  The drive I was hoping to get from NaNoWriMo has delivered.  Even Rhiannon is getting excited about what’s coming out.  So much better than planned.  Sometimes all it takes is a force to get you through.

Motivational Forces

There are times–for every writer–when coffee, pixie sticks, and other biological forms of motivation just don’t cut it.  You may be sitting in front of your keyboard all day intending to write, but the distractions are too high.  You can’t bring yourself to unplug the internet (you mean disconnect from the world? Scary!), or turn off the cell phone.  How do you focus yourself?  You have to write, but you can’t.

Let’s talk magical forces.  There are as many different kinds of magical forces as you can think of, and the magical force of motivation is a very powerful one.  With motivation, any task–even dreaded ones–take on a life, are quickly completed.  To seek and use a motivational force is to add power to whatever you intend to do.  First, you have to know where to locate it.

In the pit of your stomach, that place that hurts when you feel hungry, that is where motivational forces live.  Go there in your mind.  Feel around.  Whenever you get excited about something, it usually comes from here.

It has been said there is a flame inside all of us.  I believe this is where that flame resides.  Whenever the distractions around me are getting to be too much, I focus on this place.  I feed the fire in a minute’s meditation.

When I feed this fire, it grows, and my fingers find their way through the story–blasting into scenes unthought of.  These are times when it’s just you and your story.  It’s almost as if you are watching it in action.  I find I write the best stuff when I have to do these meditations.  I’ve been doing them daily for NaNoWriMo.

Strike a flame with me!  Add inspiration to your story.   Tell me, what do you do to inspire yourself when you’re not feelin’ it?

NaNoWriMo Little Butt Off

Word Count: 20,991 of 50, 000

Nearly finished chapter twelve, but I promised myself only to write until lunch time on work days.  I need some time to just relax and write blogs like this!  The past four days have been very invigorating.  NaNoWriMo is giving me the steam I was hoping for.

Rhiannon isn’t too excited about NaNoWriMo, but I wasn’t expecting her to be.  She knows my brain works funny, so she’s accepted WriMo…but if I end up slacking off, she’s gonna be mad!  I don’t blame her.

I’m impatient, which means I can’t work fast enough.  I write loads, then I burn myself out, and don’t write again for a month.  If there is any advice I can give from today’s day of writing it’s this:  take your time.  If you can write more than the daily word goal, great.  Be the tortoise not the hare.

Reading

An important exercise for any writer is reading.  All published authors tell we aspiring many this.  I find, even if it’s just a couple of pages, that reading fiction recharges my batteries.  In order to be a teller of stories, it’s important to be a fan of other people’s work.

I’m going to read for a bit before work.  Want to join me?

November IS NaNoWriMo

Word Count: 15,008 of 50,000

I have to say, I write a whole lot more than the minimum everyday.  Writing comes easy to me.  I love making up stories.  And I usually don’t set out with a word-count goal in mind when telling one.

Having a Plan

Setting out on something like NaNoWriMo is like getting in a dingy in a hurricane.  It’s hard to be prepared to deal with every single obstacle a writer has to overcome in writing a long piece of fiction in such a short amount of time.

Rhiannon and I spent months planning our story.  We saw that we had more than one book’s worth of ideas.  First, we found the first story, wrote a general summary of that story (about two or three pages), then we began to write.

Personally, I’ve never been a big fan of planning my writing.  our general summary was basically a list of ideas we wanted to be sure to include.  However, pre-writing is a definite phase in the planning of a novel.  So we jumped into pre-writing.

Five chapters in, we ran into a couple of snags in our plot and decided to back up a bit.  We were still finding our story at this point.  We wrote a chapter-by-chapter outline, then summaries to most of the chapters.  It was then we realized we had a detailed map of our story.  It wasn’t quite clear about everything we’d encounter in the writing–like a street-map in a brochure–a course guide to aid against getting lost.

My Expectations and Yours

From the average length of each chapter we’ve written so far, I expect we’ll be close to 100,000 words when we are done–well over the goal of this competition.  A lot of WriMos jump into November feet first.  Rhiannon and I were lucky enough to have a well planned idea (not to mention, a bit of a head-start).  I think it’s only fair that we should write more!

So those of you worried about not reaching the 50,000 word count, take it easy on yourself.  Write what you can–force it out of you.  Know that you can only do what’s best for you.  This is birth.  No child is born good or bad.  You have all the time in the world to make this story your best.  November is just for getting it out.