This is just a quick update, unfortunately, I have to start work in about 20 minutes.
But, I woke up this morning and checked my email, as per usual, only to find a very bizarre message. It was from my novel.
At first I thought it was some sort of scam. You know, some stupid computer sending me a message saying they would publish my novel. But, I opened it anyway, and grinned.
It was from NaNoWriMo, aka National Novel Writing Month. My future novel emailed me, reminding me that it’s time to get prepped for the month ahead. And so, that’s exactly what I did today.
Ever since I finished ‘Vessels’ I’ve slowed down. I’m still working on ‘The Portrait of Sterling Madison’, but it’s coming along slowly. I need something else. Something entirely fresh.
Like ‘Cards’!
And so, I’m going to work on that story for NaNo this year. I’m really excited to write this story, and to have something entirely new to work on. ‘The Portrait’ was something old, that I’m rejuvenating, as is the piece I was going to work on after ‘The Portrait’, and I still intend to finish both projects. But, I need something new.
So, I have thirty days to write 50,000 words. Since I’ve never written 50,000 words, I don’t think I will make this goal. But, it will jump start the novel, and get me involved in what seems to be a very active local community.
NaNo has local regions which you can join. You can participate in local, real-life writing sessions, or join in on virtual writing sessions. And the Salem region even offers workshops!
This is exciting stuff! I’m really excited to meet local writers, and maybe start up a new writing group here in town, while still keeping in touch with my AZ group!
In other news, I found a cheap little printer at Wal-Mart. I haven’t bought it yet, but I think I’m going to, that way I can actually make some head way on editing ‘The Portrait’, and can print out ‘Vessels’ in its entirety. I want to print the novel, so I can feel it and see it with new eyes. Then I’ll throw it in a drawer or a binder and ignore it until after the Holidays.
Anyway, I have to go get ready for work, just wanted to let you all know that I’m here, and I’m still working.
Also, if you’re following my other blog, I promise our responses to Bambi are forthcoming. Tomorrow, I promise!
BZ
To Write These Words Down... 
Nice! If you’re in California I want to join your writing group!
Dude, sad day! I’m in Oregon! But I’m considering starting an online group where writers I meet can all come together…
Great, I’m sort of doing the same!
I might be going to Oregon later this year to visit my friend. He said there’s some sort of awesome book store there I need to check out.
If you are interested in swapping chapters of your novel with me, or anything, email me at wayoftheworld@thomasmwatt.com
I stay sharp by working with others, so please don’t be shy!
– Thomas
Sweet! He’s most likely talking about Powell’s in Portland. It’s basically a compound turned Bookstore. If you’re anything like me, take a well defined list and stick to it… I had a panic attack my first trip because I was so overwhelmed.
Haha will do.