Tag Archives: Challenge

Camp NaNoWriMo – First Check-in, Day 6

camp-participant-2015-web-bannerThis challenge didn’t start off positive for me. To be honest, I only got my feet wet today. Yes, I started on July 1st but I didn’t put in significant work until today. I got stuck very early in the game because I was unfocused. Then I remembered that I have a major part of the story figured out, almost from beginning to end. I don’t like to skip ahead of chapters; that’s why I was stuck. Incidentally, the style I am using for this book allows me to focus on two different storylines before they merge and continue together, so it is safe for me to proceed with what flows smoothly, for now.

I changed my word count goal from 50,000 to 30,000 words after I corresponded with a few other participants and realized that I set the bar outside of my comfort zone for no reason (hence why I’m behind). November NaNoWriMo is a 50,000 words challenge, I guess that’s where I got that figure. This July challenge allows participants to set their own limits.

I wish I could say this challenge is a warm up to November’s, but I know I won’t be able to participate. Nevertheless, I’m glad to attempt this challenge because I’m starting to feel that feeling I had when I was writing Selima and the Merfolk – Absolute pleasure.

Organization Is Essential For Productivity

20150701_123921Today I start writing book two of Selima and the Merfolk. Tentatively, I have named it Corallian, you will see why when I release the cover. I have signed up to Camp NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) which is a challenge designed for participants to write a specific amount of word in one month (July). Your account allows you to create a project, tracks your progress and join camps/groups for support if you like.  My goal is 30,000 words which should bring me to about half of book two.

I am using these beautiful chests that Moruga RC Primary School gave me to organize my desk. For me, order is paramount for productivity.

I tried the November challenge before and got nowhere. This time I am more determined to challenge myself. For the past few months, I have been fortunate to visit many schools and get feedback from several persons who have read Selima and the Merfolk. Everyone asks if I’ve started writing the sequel. Since I have a little experience under my belt I hope to get this book published faster than the last. However, I will not rush because at end of the day my primary goals are to write a quality book that I would enjoy and remember forever, even if I was not the writer.

Wish me luck!

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