Sit Down and Write is now Storyteller!

I decided our writing challenge needed a new name and a new vibe. Welcome to Storyteller! The graphic above pretty much lays it out. Our next round is coming up in July. I hope you will join us. You can join our Discord too. Invite link: https://discord.gg/CVrqt423wC

Sarra Cannon at Heart Breathings is also hosting another Rough Draft Challenge next month. I will be participating in both. You can check out her video about next month's challenge here: https://youtu.be/zjq0qnxSM_4?si=7MamGDlHlmANGOx8

That's all for now. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me. Just click on the email icon in the sidebar and fill out the contact form.

Sit Down and Write Month - March 2025 - Join us!

It's official! Sit Down and Write Month will now be held yearly in March and July. I'm moving away from November because it's a busy time of year for me (as I'm sure it is for many others). These SDaW months will be loosely modeled after Camp NaNoWriMo. If you ever participated in those events, they were held in April and July each year. The premise...write what you want, or edit...just work on whatever it is you're writing, whether you're in the planning stage, writing stage, or editing stage, and beyond. I created a little cheatsheet (credit to Camp NaNoWriMo) so you can work out word counts for editing, time, or page goals. I hope it helps (see below). Also, with SDaW, there is no mandatory word count.

A little bit about my decision to start up this new incarnation of Sit Down and Write (from my post in October 2024):

I defected from NaNoWriMo (left, deleted account, the whole shebang). If you're a writer, you probably have already heard what has been going on starting with last year, and then this year's debacle. If you haven't heard what has been going on, you can read my post on Facebook here (it's public so you should be able to read it whether you use Facebook or not).

All this being said, there is no judgment here. If you are still planning on participating in any NaNoWriMo event, you are welcome to join us for this challenge.

Also, as I had mentioned in November, Sarra Cannon is now doing what she calls the Rough Draft Challenge and she is planning on hosting it multiple times a year (also in place of NaNoWriMo). The next one will be in April. I will probably be participating in her event as well. You can read more about it in my October post here, and in the kick-off post for our November 2024 Sit Down and Write here. There's a link to the website they have created for the challenge in the November post, and I believe her husband is working on improving it. Just sharing this again in case you might want to join in. Sarra has a very inclusive and supportive community for writers.

We have a Discord for Sit Down and Write for chatting, sharing challenge prep, and word count check-ins. Here's the invite link for that: https://discord.gg/CVrqt423wC You will notice the text channels in the sidebar once you join.

If you would prefer to just interact here, that's fine too. In the menu at the top of the blog there's a link to Sit Down and Write Month...when clicked, it will take you to all the Sit Down and Write Month posts with all the information and resources in those posts. There's also a link to our Discord. Be sure to subscribe to this blog in the sidebar to get all new posts in your email inbox.

Here are a few sites where you can keep track of word counts:
Pacemaker
Word Count Tool
Writer's Atelier (this is a post with a whole list of options)

I think that's everything! I'm so excited! If you would like to join us, just leave a comment below. No official sign-up required. And jump over and join our Discord. We would love to have you!

Here is the cheatsheet I mentioned above:

Sit Down and Write Month - Kickoff

It's November 1st...time to sit down and write! If you have decided to join us, I couldn't be more happy. Let's lift up and support each other along our writing journeys.

As I mentioned in the announcement/sign-up post, I will also be participating in Sarra Cannon's Heart Breathings Rough Draft Challenge. You can read my initial explanation of the challenge in the sign-up post here. They have created a website for the challenge and it is live for signups. I'm headed over there as soon as I publish this post. I just look at it like...what could be better than two communities supporting each other in writing? 

There's a free Rough Draft Challenge planner/plotting workbook you can get if you sign up for the Heart Breathings newsletter here. 

The initial videos for the Rough Draft Challenge are listed below. Whether you decide to join the challenge or not, Sarra's videos are very uplifting and helpful. You can subscribe to her YouTube channel and watch for free anytime. There is a wealth of helpful writing videos on her channel.

• Saying Goodbye To NaNoWriMo ✨WELCOME TO THE ROUGH DRAFT CHALLENGE
• Preptober Planner Walkthrough 2024
• 10 Steps To Start Your Novel ✨PREPTOBER 2024
• How I'm Planning My New Book
• How to Join the Rough Draft Challenge
• Last Minute Novel Prep ✨💎ROUGH DRAFT CHALLENGE

I did not have time to do much novel prep in October so during the early part of the month, I will be doing that. I'm setting my word count goal at 25,000 for the actual novel writing, which will be about a quarter of my planned word count for my novel. If I write more, that will be even more of a win...but I don't want to spread myself too thin with the holidays starting this month. The image above is a page from the Rough Draft Challenge planner/plotting workbook, and my notebook with my novel planning notes.

What is your word count goal? Writing plans? Share in the comments and/or over on our Discord. If you haven't joined it, here is the invite link: https://discord.com/invite/CVrqt423wC

If you're not joining the Rough Draft Challenge (and updating your word count on that website), here are a couple of sites where you can keep track of word counts:
Pacemaker
Word Count Tool
Writer's Atelier (this is a post with a whole list of options)

We're ready, right?! I'm excited!

Here's another pep talk quote for you...

"You'll probably always be your own worst critic, but you won't likely be a fair one—don't be afraid to seek (and apply) feedback from trusted sources, while remembering that outside of true errors, it's all subjective. Good or bad, they are all just opinions—ultimately, you have to do what best honors your voice as a writer." —Christina C. Jones from "IndieLab"

Let's do this!

via GIPHY

You're invited to join Sit Down and Write Month!

I've been posting about this on social media...I'm bringing back Sit Down and Write as a regular challenge!! The reason? I defected from NaNoWriMo (left, deleted account, the whole shebang). If you're a writer, you probably have already heard what has been going on starting with last year, and then this year's debacle. If you haven't heard what has been going on, you can read my post on Facebook here (it's public so you should be able to read it whether you use Facebook or not). 

All this being said, there is no judgment here. If you are still planning on doing NaNoWriMo, you are welcome to join us for this challenge.

So, this challenge is now Sit Down and Write Month. This year will be hosted in November, but I'm thinking of foregoing November starting in 2025. November is a busy time for so many people due to the holidays. I'm leaning toward March and July, 31 day months so we get that extra day. Weigh-in on your feelings about this in the comments.

I had mentioned on social media that I wanted to share something fun with you and so here it is. I have talked about author Sarra Cannon in previous blog posts...how I use her HB90 planning system, and follow her Heart Breathings channel (and her author channel) on YouTube. You can read those posts here and here for details. Sarra's Heart Breathings is a community for writers and for years she has hosted Preptober for NaNoWriMo, also recording her writing journey during NaNo, calling them the NaNoWriMo Diaries. Well, she has also chosen to leave NaNoWriMo and distance herself from it. She is still doing Preptober, and she has created her own writing challenge for November, the Rough Draft Challenge. I will be participating in her challenge along with this one. Watch these two videos (Video 1, Video 2) to learn more about it, and you can get your own Preptober planner (and access to the resource library she mentions) if you sign up for her newsletter (you can sign up for that here). She is going to have different word count levels, and her husband is helping her put together a website where we can update our word counts. 

If you would rather not join in on Sarra's challenge, that's fine. I have set up a Discord for us for chatting, sharing challenge prep, and word count check-ins. Here's the invite link for that: https://discord.gg/CVrqt423wC

You will notice the text channels in the sidebar once you join. 

If you would prefer to just interact here, that's fine too. I'll be creating a menu at the top of the blog and will link this post there (along with a link to our Discord). I will also be updating with new blog posts, sharing challenge prep and progress during November.

Here are a couple of sites where you can keep track of word counts:

Pacemaker

Word Count Tool

Writer's Atelier (this is a post with a whole list of options)

I think that's everything! I'm so excited! If you would like to join us, just leave a comment below. No official sign-up required. And jump over and join our Discord. We would love to have you!

Let's do this writing thing!

Oh, and here is your first pep talk. This was written by K.M. Weiland, an author who writes fiction, and craft books for writers. She has been very helpful for many writers. I have her books myself. 

Print this manifesto out and stick it up where you write, or put it on your computer as wallpaper, or as a wallpaper for your phone. Why? Because if you're writing, you're a writer. Don't let anyone convince you you're not.

My NaNoWriMo Journey 2023

That's right...I'm at it again! I'm going to try really hard to post my progress regularly here. I'm trying to establish a presence as a writer. I think it will help me with accountability and may even help my confidence. We shall see.

My goal for NaNo is 50,000 words, of course. I'm placing a Pacemaker Planner progress widget in the sidebar. I will continue writing in December because my plan is 90,000 words for my novel. So, 40,000 words in December. 

I'm a huge fan of Sarra Cannon (author). Her planning system and writing tips (and everything else) have been such a big help to me. She's doing NaNo too and she does daily vlogs called The NaNoWriMo Diaries. You can check her out on her Heart Breathings YouTube Channel here. She really is so much fun.

So, here I go. I have not started writing yet so I'm a bit behind, but hoping to start tonight or Friday at the latest. I have extra time on the weekends so I can catch up. I know I can do it! 

Are you doing NaNoWriMo this month? Let me know. You can also send me a buddy request on the NaNo site @MSMwriter.

Sit Down and Write 8 - Finally, an update! #sitdownwrite

I had intended to post an update a lot sooner than this, and then I was hosting the High Summer Read-a-Thon this week, and time just flew by.

So, I've been sitting on my great news for over a week. I had a MAJOR breakthrough with my novel idea last week! I've been researching, which counts toward word count during Camp NaNo. I like that. I wish they would allow that during November's NaNoWriMo...but I digress. Anyway, I'm pretty excited about this new directions and I even have a (perhaps) "tentative" title. Drum roll please...Beautiful Pilgrim. There's a reason behind the title, but that is yet to be revealed.

I'm hoping to get some actual words on paper for the last week of SDaW and Camp NaNo. I'm working on a creating a writing schedule that I'm hoping will keep me more on track.

I hope things are going well for you. Let me know in the comments or leave a link to your update post.

Happy writing!



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Sit Down and Write 8 - Where did June go!?

I had intended to post this yesterday, but somehow June got away from me. The next thing I knew, July 1st was upon me and I had loads to do!

I'm kicking off with my declaration that I did sign up for Camp NaNoWriMo. How about you? Did you know? They have a handy knowledge base for Camp NaNo and this is one of the questions...

How do I determine my word count for my Camp NaNoWriMo non-novel project?

This part of the answer was of interest to me: For editing and research: One hour of active editing equals 1,000 words.

...because this is what I will be doing for at least part of July. I hope to begin writing the actual book towards the end of the month. We shall see. I'm thrilled that Camp NaNo is so flexible!

I've set up a private camp so if anyone is participating and would like an invite, leave me your NaNo name in the comments. 

So, what are your writing plans this month?



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Sit Down and Write 8 - Coming July 2016! #sitdownwrite

That's it...I've waffled on about this enough. It's official. July 2016. I don't care if I'm hosting a read-a-thon in July (High Summer, 18-24) or that I'll probably be doing some Christmas in July posts at my Christmas blog. I decided I was working on my book in July and that's what I'm going to do!

How about you? Remember, Sit Down and Write is a write-a-thon for whatever you want/need to write. Catch up on book reviews (or other blog writings), you can work on your work in progress, you can journal, you can write short stories, you can prep your novel (research, take notes, etc.) or other writing project. I'm not fussy and I HATE rules. So, let's do this! Sign up below if you're in and write up a post if you want. I will post updates periodically, time permitting. If you want to update on social media, our hashtag is #sitdownwrite.

I haven't decided if I'm doing Camp NaNoWriMo in July yet. If you have decided you're participating, let me know. 

P.S. Don't forget to grab the button. There's a handy grab code in the sidebar.

Sign up!

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Sit Down and Write 7: #NaNoWriMo Edition - Update #sitdownwrite

Do I have what it takes to be a writer? That's the question I've been asking myself all weekend. Or...do I put too much pressure on myself with events like NaNoWriMo and the like? Is it that November is not a good month for writing, or is it something else? I don't know, but I'm in a semi-dire situation at the moment in my mind. I can't get past the fear, doubt, worry (that it won't be good enough). I know I'm not the only one that goes through this kind of agonizing self doubt and stalling. Anyone else want to weigh in on this?

So, all this being said, I've decided to "lose" NaNoWriMo again. I am feeling very discouraged and regretful about it, but it's a decision I had to make. I know that next time I attempt to participate in a "writing month", I need to be prepared. That being said, I'm still moving forward with my dreams of being a writer and so will continue with Sit Down and Write this month. I intend to use the rest of this month to fully flesh out my idea. I'm beginning to think that I'm not a pantser. I really shouldn't be surprised that I'm a plotter. Planning is in my genes, whether I follow through or not. lol

Let me know how you're doing. I'll check the linky for any updates. I hope you're not going through what I've been. I wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy.



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Sit Down and Write 7: #NaNoWriMo Edition - Today We Start! #sitdownwrite

Today's the day! Have you started. I'm having a bit of a late start, but I'm accounting for this during the month. I'm determined!

Here's a motivational quote for our first week...

This post will serve as this week's update and discussion post so feel free to share your progress and/or struggles in the comments below. 

Whatever you're working on, you got this. We can do it!

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Sit Down and Write 7 - #NaNoWriMo Edition #sitdownwrite

Yes, I've decided to attempt NaNoWriMo again. So, in conjunction with that next month, I'm going to host a month long Sit Down and Write! That's right. It's Sit Down and Write 7: NaNoWriMo Edition!

Whether you are indeed jumping into the fray with me, or you just want to catch up on some blogging or book review writing, declare your intention in the comments section below and add your link to the linky. I'm going to have also have the Mister Linky in the sidebar so you can easily access and post links to any updates. I will also be posting updates here and I encourage you to stop by and chat in the comments, especially those of you doing NaNo. I'm going to need the moral support.

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Sit Down and Write 6 - How's it going and Guess What?

So, what have you all accomplished so far? I'm not going to go in to my unique situation, although this might give you an idea...

Anyhoo, I've decided to extend this lovely event until Sunday, April 19. That's right. I figure, why not?

Comment below on your progress and/or if you're in for the extended duration.



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Sit Down and Write 6 - a write-a-thon for whatever you need to write #sitdownwrite

It's time for Sit Down and Write again! I can't believe this is number 6. I am behind with posting this sign up. Nothing new there. Life is always throwing me curves.

Now, if you haven't joined us before, you might ask what you can do for Sit Down and Write. Well, you can catch up on book reviews (or other blog writings), you can work on your work in progress, you can journal, you can write short stories, you can prep your novel (research, take notes, etc.) or other writing project. I'm not fussy and I HATE rules. So, let's do this! Sign up below if you're in and write up a post if you want. I will be posting updates periodically so I can stop in and check on what you're doing. If you would like to update on twitter, our hashtag is #sitdownwrite.

On my end, I am going to be doing some novel prep (and hopefully some actual writing) and I'm also starting Julia Cameron's The Artist's Way this week so I'll be doing that too.

Good luck! Now sit down...and write!

P.S. Don't forget to grab the button. There's a handy grab code in the sidebar.

Sign up!

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NaNoWriMo - Day 3

I think in my case it should be called NaNoWriNO. Seriously, why do I think I can do this, only to fail year after year. Now this doesn't mean I'm giving up...but I am getting discouraged, which doesn't bode well considering tomorrow is only the fourth day. I'm just wondering why...just when we have something big planned like this...our bodies decide to be extra tired, our minds more clouded, more demands surround us from work and family? Is it the universe trying to tell us something?

Okay, I'm finished waxing thoughtful. I will try to soldier on.

How about you? How is your journey going so far?




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NaNoWriMo - Day 2

Well...no comment on my progress because...well, no progress yet. I had no time to prep in October so that is what I'm trying to do now. I know, I know. That's not the way it's done. But when have I ever followed the rules? Probably why I don't have my novel written yet. Ack!

How about you? How are you struggling...or succeeding? Did you prep in October or are you still in the same boat as I am?




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NaNoWriMo 2014 and a Support Group

Am I ready? No. Am I ever ready? That would also be a no. But I never give up and so I'm jumping on the NaNoWriMo bandwagon once again.

To hold myself accountable and to offer support to my friends who are also braving the NaNo waters this month, I will be posting here daily, whether I've written or not. These posts will be for daily accountability and the comments each day will be a forum for my friends (and other NaNo participants) to stop by and share their struggles, successes, pretty much anything. It's a NaNo support group OR The--rant, share, vent, brainstorm, shoot the breeze--Support Group!

I hope you will join me so we can support each other in this daunting endeavor. Yes, I said daunting. Anyone would be a fool not to call it so.

Happy writing!!!



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An Apology (Sit Down and Write 5) and #CampNaNoWriMo

Well, my two weeks of prep during Sit Down and Write 5 went down the tubes. I hope you all were able to get some writing in on whatever it was you were working on. You can leave me a link in the comments if you posted a wrap-up, or if you just want to let me know how you did. I apologize for dropping the ball.

Now onto the pink elephant in the room...Camp NaNoWriMo. Yup. I'm still going forward with it. I've set my word count for 30,000 words which is about 968 words per day, or counting 4.5 (approx.) weeks in July, that works out to 6,776 words per week (with a little under 3,000 for that half week). I am determined to put a really great effort forward this time. Not sure how I'm going to do it with work and kids and real life and all of my reading commitments, but I'm just going to do it. Just do it.

Are you doing Camp NaNo? Look me up over there...thetruebookaddict



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