NaNoWriMo Diary – Week 3 (November 2019)

Fri, 15 Nov

Today was a non-pupil day meaning Noah was off school, so I had to energetic children to entertain. I decided to also take my niece and nephew out as their mum does a lot for our kids. With a full car of kids, I took them to a soft play centre to wear them out. The older kids were great and helped keep the little ones busy but I was constantly on the go.

When we got home, Aria napped and I used the time to support Noah with his homework and make important calls.

My husband needs the PC tonight so I am using the time to update my blog on my mobile and read a book.

Sat, 16 Nov

I’m very conscious of the fact that I need to catch up. When my husband took the kids out for a walk I jumped at the chance to get on the PC achieving almost 2k before lunch.

I really enjoyed what I wrote. Chapter 13 overlaps the epic battle from Jewel of the Sea at the end of the book. Where Mariah was unleashing her powers, Kya is at her lowest point. It was fun to write such a powerful scene from such a hopeless perspective and feel anyone that has read Jewel of the Sea will notice the stark contrast making the chapter very different between the books.

Aria was a little difficult to get to sleep and wanted extra cuddles. We think she’s having a growth spurt or teething as she’s extra hungry too but I finally got on the PC and added another 2k.

Sun, 17 Nov

We’ve had a very chilled out day today but this afternoon we discovered Aria has a rash on her body. We think it might be a heat rash so we stripped her off to cool her down.

I also spent a lot of my writing time chasing authors for their bios, profile pics, book photos and blurbs, etc. Back in October, I volunteered to create the World Indie Warriors catalogue to help promote their books to potential customers. I asked for details before NaNoWriMo started so I could finish it before this started but it didn’t happen. I’m really enjoying the creativeness and playing in Canva. It reinforces the feeling I would love to work in graphic design but I have no idea how to get into it.

Mon, 18 Nov

The rash hasn’t gone. So the first job of the day was to get her an appointment. I had to wait for a call back from the GP to decide if they will see her. It left me in limbo, watching my phone, waiting for the call but when they rang they offered 3:50pm. I knew this would be a rush with the school run so we hurried straight there and arrived with only a minute to spare. In my haste, as I leaned into the car to get the changing bag, I caught Aria’s forehead on the corner of the door. At first I thought it was nothing and gave her a kiss as we ran to get checked in. Then Noah needed a wee so i got him to the toilet. Whilst we waited for him I noticed the massive bruise swelling up before my eyes. By the time we got called in, it looked terrible. The GP was lovely and checked her over and gave me advice for head injuries (just in case) although he felt it wasn’t as bad as it looked. Then he checked out her rash (the reason for the visit). It turned out to be an allergic reaction. He gave us a prescription for that – a non-drowsy one because of her bump. Then I explained how she won’t take her chocolate laxative as she doesn’t like the taste so he did her a prescription for the plain which she we tried as soon as we got home and she loves it – yay.

After all that drama, we decided on a McDonalds for dinner. I know its not healthy but… happiness.

Once the kids were in bed, I jumped on World Indie Warriors Facebook page to host my live write-in. We had a great productive social and some people shared some steamy snippets with us. It got me back into my writing.

Tue, 19 Nov

We had a very exciting morning with Noah loosing his first tooth. He went through a kaleidoscope of emotions before becoming excited about the tooth fairy coming.

This then made us late and we were in a mad rush to get Noah to breakfast club and myself to work on time. When i arrived at work, I discovered I had forgot my purse and my stationery. I found a stray pen and my accounts debt showed me how to create a pre-pay card & got my husband to send me his card details so I could buy food.

With no money to spend at lunch, I was focussed on writing and got over 500 words written.

Bedtime was lots of fun with Noah telling his teddies to protect his tooth and only let the tooth fairy take it. Noah was eager to go to bed and agreed to put his tooth in a dish at the foot of his bed as daddy was worried it might get lost under his pillow.

My first job tonight was to email Jewel of the Sea to my editor. Then, I added another 2k to Jewel of the Sea before bed.

Wed, 20 Nov

The tooth excitement continued this morning with Noah waking us up to announce the tooth fairy has been.

Today was my short day at work with no lunch break so I didn’t get to write. I was then in a mad rush to pick up Aria, then Noah.

Noah’s school had a book fair so we had to check it out. I got 7 books for £10 and a percentage from the book sales will go to the school to buy books for the children! Win win!

Aria was in a dangerous mood climbing everything. She seems to be collecting a daily bump or scrape. I’ll be pleased when this stage is over but I fear this daredevil will only get more adventurous – eek!

I couldn’t relax until the kids were in bed. I wasn’t feeling my story tonight but I tried. I tried to encourage myself with chocolate but once the chocolate was eaten I decided to call it a night. I had almost achieved 1.5k so that’s not too bad going.

I ended my day going to bed and enjoy Crown of Conspiracy by Kara A Weaver.

Thurs, 21 Nov

It was my long day at work but I managed to write in my lunch break. After work I was tired and unmotivated to write. In total I wrote 2k. I wanted to write more but the words were not coming.

Week one total

To be on track I need to have reached 35000 so I am behind target. No surprises there.

Finishing the second week my grand total is: 27,471

I’m 8k behind but feely oddly hopeful i can still do this. I somehow need to write 2.5 to 3k per day which isn’t impossible. I’m still pleased that I’m writing and pushing through the tricky parts of the novel.

Check back next Thursday to see my progress.

If you liked this, then you will enjoy:

NaNoWriMo Diary – Week 1 (November 2019)

NaNoWriMo Diary – Week 2 (November 2019)

NaNoWriMo Preparations

Book Review: Envy by J D Groom

November 15, 2019 Ally Aldridge Writing

NaNoWriMo Diary – Week 2 (November 2019)

Fri, 8 Nov

I had the worst nights sleep. Aria was up every hour – maybe she’s having a growth spurt. We had to wash & sterilise her bottles in the middle of the night as we ran out. We heard Evie have two seizures. And, I had a killer headache, borderline migraine.

In the morning, Rob was going to take Noah to school so I could have a little lay in but it’s hard to sleep with all the noise of people rushing around so I got up. Sadly Evie had a seizure while Noah ate his breakfast. It was the first time he has seen it.l, although we told him she is poorly, it really upset him. Afterwards he claimed he was poorly with a tummy ache and begged to stay home and watch Evie. I let the school know what happened as I couldn’t be sure if he was ill or expressing his sadness, either way he wasn’t going to be any good for class.

I had wanted Noah out the way as we needed to pack for our holiday and help my mum with how to care for Evie and give her medicine. We managed to get it down in time and Noah appeared much better now he had cheered up – phew (he’s usually ill in November).

We arrived at Forest Holidays. Unpacked, ordered pizza, got the kids to bed – Noah was a little tricky to get to sleep as he found the new sounds disturbing. Once they went to sleep my hubby and I enjoyed the hot tub.

Sat, 9 Nov

We woke up after a brilliant nights sleep and our first breast at our lodge.

We headed to the Forest Retreat and got details of the “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt!” trail. Noah read the map and lead us through the forest. He answered the questions, wrote down the answers and read us the field facts. I was very proud of him. We then returned to the Forest Retreat to claim our prize – a copy of the book that inspired the trail. We then stayed for lunch.

Aria was tired and fed, making her a happy content baby that agreed to go down for her nap. Once asleep, we let Noah check out the hot tub. He loved it. He was ready to get out just as the timer went off for 20minutes which is the max allowed for safety.

Afterwards, I tried to get on my laptop to write but it decided to do an update! Why does this always happen when you have limited time? Once done, I managed almost 500 words before Aria woke.

We had a chilled out afternoon watching Incredibles 2. We had dinner, put the kids to bed and then I spent time with my husband. I was then tired and read Crown of Conspiracy by Kara S Weaver before bed.

Sun, 10 Nov

Both kids slept like angels. I gave them breakfast but Aria was in a naughty mood and made so much mess. While I cleaned the dinning room & kitchen, she headed off to the bathroom to throw toilet paper everywhere and empty the bin. She brought me a dirty nappy she had opened to alert me to the next disaster.

We went for a walk before lunch where Aria threw away her hat – no idea where it is. We had lunch, she slept, Noah and I took advantage of the hot tub.

Now, I’m trying to write but do you think my laptop will turn on? It’s been charging all night and now… playing dead. I’m going to have to write on my mobile. Grrr!

Later, we watched a film, had dinner, put the kids to bed and enjoyed our last night here together.

Mon, 11 Nov

I didn’t want to leave the forest but it was time to travel home. Mum gave us an update on the cats and Evie had a bloody paws. It looked like she’d broken her back claws during a seizure. I rang the vet and as she wasn’t in pain and the blood was dry, we agreed to keep her home as bringing her in could cause more distress. The meds seem to be working.

We unpacked, I did laundry and prepared for work. I knew Ofsted were in so I wanted to double check my plan for the day except… where was my diary. I was in a blind panic, cursing myself for unpacking my handbag to use it for a day at the spa. It took me a full hour to figure out where it was. It was then dinner time, putting the kids to bed and then… going live.

Yes, tonight I finally did it. I logged onto World Indie Warriors Facebook group and did a live write-in. We chatted about our projects and writing and did three writing sprints. Once finished I was excited about my novel again and super proud of myself for braving the camera.

Tue, 12 Nov

Today was my long day at work. It felt even longer with Ofsted in as many people were tense, making sure their lessons were perfect. I think everyone did well and I’m silently confident.

Tonight I added over 1k to my word count. I would have liked to have done better but my neck is in pain (I think I slept on it funny).

Wed, 13 Nov

Today was my short day at work. It doesn’t mean I get more free time. As soon as I’m home I’m busy with the kids. Tonight, Rob & I we’re busy wrapping presents for Noah’s birthday. By the time always done I had no time to write.

Thurs, 14 Nov

Today, is Noah’s birthday but I had an early start at work so he only had time for one card and present before breakfast Club.

I expected to be visited by Ofsted today as they have not yet seen me or any of my learners but they didn’t. Although, lots of my colleagues were visited. Today was my last day of work for the week so I will find out how we scored next week. However during my lunch break I wrote a few words and emailed them to myself.

I finished work late so when I got home it was dinner time. Noah waited for me before unwrapping his presents and having cake before bed.

I’m conscious that I am falling behind so I made sure I write tonight. Adding almost 2k to my total.

Week one total

Finishing the second week my grand total is: 14,783

To be on track I need to have reached 23,333 so I am behind.

I’m 9k behind so it is doubtful I will catch up in time to make 50k but the important thing is the progress I have made and will continue to make. I’m not giving up and even if I need a few more months, I will finish this novel.

Check back next Thursday to see my progress.

If you liked this, then you will enjoy:

NaNoWriMo Diary – Week 1 (November 2019)

Goals: Progress Since June 2019

How I edited my novel – 12 tips for self editing

Book Review: You stole my heart… Do I have to take your name?

October 28, 2019 Ally Aldridge Books, Competition, Fiction, Goals, Novel, Writing

Write 50k words in 30 days

Are you doing NaNo? NaNoWriMo in November is the big annual challenge to write 50k words in just 30 days.

I’ve done it a few times before but never won but that doesn’t deter me. My feeling is that as long as I take part, I am still making progress towards my goal. If you want to be buddies on NaNo, I am Redfae (add me and when I log on, I’ll add you back).

The Project

I’ve spent most of September and October plotting Diamond in the Sky ready for NaNoWriMo. I’ve been plotting using Save the Cat. I still have some work to do to develop my B Story characters but I think I am ready enough for 1 November.

Diamond in the Sky is a spin off novel from Jewel of the Sea, following Kya’s life spiral out of control after getting dumped.

Get involved

Writing can be a rather solitary experience but together with some other members of World Indie Warriors, we shall be hosting live write-ins.

I shall be doing lives every Monday in November at 9pm on Instagram. These will be a chance to chat about how our writing projects are going and get motivated for the week ahead. Even if you aren’t doing NaNo, feel free to join in the chats and cheer everyone on.

On Monday, 21 October, I did my first ever Instagram live with Jodie Groom. I was really nervous so she offered to join me online as a test run to figure things out before November and support me.

To see the live from last Monday you will need to be a member of World Indie Warriors Closed Facebook Group. It’s easy to join. Just click the join button on Facebook.

If Monday’s aren’t for you then you’ll be hyped to hear there will be other write-ins during the week. Check out the schedule to discover other days and times to join WIW online. Some members will be doing adhoc write-ins.

If you have enjoyed this post you may also like:

Reflecting on Camp NaNo July 2019

Book Review: Save the Cat – Writes a Novel

Tips On Naming Your Characters

Why I Love World Indie Warriors

Click My Link Tree
To Connect On Social Media

July 31, 2019 Ally Aldridge Goals, Novel, Writing

Reflecting on Camp NaNo July 2019

July has been a challenging month for my writing goals. For Camp NaNo I decided to make a start on book 2, Diamond in the Sky but it has been full of distractions! I’m hoping August will be more productive for my writing.

Distraction 1: Course Work

I needed to finish my coursework for the Working Together Community Course. I must admit I had been putting off the assignments to work on my writing and as the deadline to submit approached I had to prioritise it and get it done. I have really enjoyed volunteering and everyone at the school has been lovely. On my last day, I got a card from the teachers and signed by all the children and chocolates.

Distraction 2: Blog

I didn’t make any progress on my Camp NaNo project until day 7 and I quickly realised that I needed to do some more planning. Not only that but my blog was also in need of some attention. I need to write up about all the fun I had at Felixstowe Book Festival. I then spent the next few evenings prepping some posts.

After a little plotting and scheduling, I was ready to write and decided to sign up to Mandi Lynn’s #10kWritingChallenge. I knew there was no chance I could write 10k in one day with my other commitments but I knew if I aimed high, I would achieve something great. I wrote 2,792 new words for Diamond in the Sky. I was back on track for my Camp NaNo goal.

Turns out Mandi Lynn didn’t make 10k either. She vlogged about her struggles and celebrated the words she did achieve. She encourages people to sign up to next months 10k challenge and win a pin.

Distraction 3: Important dates

The end of July and start of August have some important dates for me.

Husband distractions: It is my husband’s birthday month. I needed to sort out his gift and I wanted to take him out somewhere child free. I arranged for his sister to babysit. I also got Aria to print her feet in his card and Noah to write a personal message.

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It’s a special day today. My gorgeous husband @_robaldridge is another year older and my son finishes his first year of school (Reception class). . #specialday #anotheryearolder #happybirthday #happybirthdayhusband #loveofmylife #lastdayofschool #receptionclass #birthdaycards #amazingdaddy #amazinghusband #amazingdaddyandhusband #birthday
A post shared by Author Ally Aldridge (@redfae) on Jul 24, 2019 at 12:27am PDT

Also, last month, my hubby got a little neglected as the end of Jewel of the Sea got closer, so I promised to watch Stranger Things with him – which was awesome.

Noah distractions: My son was finishing his first year of school (Reception class).

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Wow! Seeing Noah’s first day of school and his last day in Reception, I can see how much he has grown. . The months have flown by. I’ve been fortunate that the other parents help me figure out what I am doing and save Noah from my mistakes (like no uniform day – Thanks @helenling27 ). Being on maternity leave has enabled me to take advantage of the support offered by the school and I’ve even passed a course. We couldn’t have wished for a better teacher. She has helped him settle into school and has done a tremendous job of developing him and preparing him for Y1. Most of all, I’m incredibly proud of Noah. He has achieved so much in a short time. ? . #receptionclass #receptionclass2019 #nowandthen #finishingreception #growinguptoofast #growinguptooquick #whatadifferenceayearmakes #schoollife #proudmummy #proudmum #mygorgeousboy #lovehimsomuch #receptionlife #5yearsold #schooluniform
A post shared by Author Ally Aldridge (@redfae) on Jul 25, 2019 at 7:36am PDT

I think it is nice for kids to make their teacher a card or gift so I had to come up with an idea and organise the craft.

We got to go to Noah’s first sports day. I also decided to arrange a night out with the playground mums and get the ball rolling on some summer play dates.

Aria’s distractions: Aria’s first birthday is at the start of August. I have been busy arranging her cake smash and splash and worked with the photographer to create a very personal experience (more coming soon).

I’ve also been planning her parties. Yes! That was ‘party’ as a plural. She is a very lucky girl.

Distraction 4: Pitching

SFFpip was this month. It was my first time taking part in this Twitter pitch event and I got a like by a publisher! Naturally, I have then had to research them to decided if the feeling is mutual.

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How exciting! I dared to take part and pitch in the #SFFpit event on Twitter. Swipe to see my pitch. Swipe again to see the Publisher that like it. ?? . I'm not going to rush my submission. I will research them to check the love is mutual and work hard on making sure cover letter, etc, is perfect. I'm so excited and happy. . Let me know if you've heard of this publisher or any tips for submitting. Many thanks ?✍️ . #SFFpit #pitch #pitchevent #novelpitch #novelpitching #twitterpitch #publisher #publisherrequest #submission #query #querying #queryletter #happywriter #happyauthor #debutnovel #debutnovelist #yafiction #yafantasy #contemporaryfantasy #cf #ya #writersofinstagram #aspiringauthor #aspiringauthorsofig #aspiringauthorsofinstagram #aspiringauthauthorslife
A post shared by Author Ally Aldridge (@redfae) on Jul 25, 2019 at 3:37am PDT

If writing up about Felixstowe Book Festival was my distraction at the start of the month, then YALC was my distraction at the end. The closer the date got, the more excited I became. I went to bed early the night before and barely slept a wink. I can’t believe it, I pitched to two agents – one of them I have stalked on Twitter for years – and they both asked me to send them Jewel of the Sea – Aghhh!

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My #YALC Swag! I loved Loved LOVED it! . You may have caught a glimpse of my day from my IG Story but there is so much more to tell & some very exciting news! Can you guess what? I’ll be blogging about it soon and sharing pics of my new books. ? . #yalcswag #bookswag #yalc2019 #postyalc #postyalcblues #yafic #iloveya #yabooks #yabookstagram #yabookstagrammer #yabookworm #yabookblogger #yafiction #yafictionismyaddiction #youngadultbooks #youngadultfiction #bookwormforlife #bookfest #bookfestival #iloveya #yafantasy #yafantasybooks #yawriter #yawritersofinstagram #yawriterlife #yaread #yaauthors #yaauthorsofinstagram #yaauthorlife
A post shared by Author Ally Aldridge (@redfae) on Jul 30, 2019 at 6:02am PDT

Now, my distraction is trying to write the perfect query letter. As I have mentioned in previous posts, I’m pretty sure my letter stinks and is why I get rejected. I feel like an excited puppy chasing my own tail and equally terrified that when I bite, I am going to get hurt. I need to conquer my fear and be brave.

Conclusion

I was in two minds whether or not to do Camp NaNo as I knew I had a lot on already this month.

With a grand total of 9,886 words, I think it is pretty impressive what I achieved despite all the distractions. If I hadn’t given it a go, I may not have written anything this month.

I also feel the challenge has kept me in touch with my novel so when things calm down in a few weeks, I can dive straight back in.

How did your July writing goals go? Did you do Camp Nano?

If you liked this post, you may enjoy:

My plans for the third quarter

Felixstowe Book Festival – The Publishing Industry

#PitMad June 2019 Summary

YALC Prep

May 7, 2019 Ally Aldridge Goals, Novel, Writing

Camp NaNoWriMo Diary (middle to end)

Here is the last half of my Camp NaNo diary, covering mid April to the end of April. It will also include whether I am a winner or not. If you would like to read the first half of my diary, click here.

Update 6

https://www.instagram.com/p/BweNpIXnfYB/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Update 7

https://www.instagram.com/p/BwjMfdHH1Pm/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Update 8

https://www.instagram.com/p/BwpzZONHlYd/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Update 9

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bwu5QSYHHGK/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Update 10

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bw0E4dYHptZ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

I am so pleased that I achieved Camp NaNo. During the Easter Holidays it felt so impossible I almost quit. I guess it goes to show what perseverance can achieve.

I like Red Dresses more than my November project and will likely return at a later date to finish this novel.

What’s next?

As soon as Camp NaNo was over, I got straight back into editing Jewel of the Sea. My goal is to try and edit three chapters a week to get it query ready.

You may have noticed that recently I have begun sharing updates on my blog with links to Wattpad as I finish editing. If you are on Wattpad, follow me, I follow back.

If you enjoyed this post you may also like:

April 18, 2019 Ally Aldridge Goals, Novel, Writing

Camp NaNoWriMo Diary (midpoint April 2019)

Here is my midpoint diary on my Camp NaNo project, how I prepared and how I am progressing told through my Instagram photos.

Project – Red Dresses

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Are you doing Camp NaNoWriMo? I am going to take a break from editing to do what I love most, writing. I've set my goal low at 15k because this week has reminded me how hard it is to find time when one of my kids are poorly and I don't want to put too much pressure on myself. I'm planning to join #hustlingwriterscommunity cabin with @midnightstarlight #fellowcreativeminds #writerslife #writersofInstagram #writerscommunity #writerschallenge #writersofig #instagramwriters #igwriter #writingcomnmunityofinstagram #writerslifeforme #WriteWriteWrite #WritersWrite #NovelWriting #hustlingwriterscabin #amwriting #workinprogress #writingproject #redheadwriter #GoalSetter #GoalDigger #writinggoals #nanowrimo #campnanowrimo #campnano #wordcount #wordcountgoal
A post shared by Author Ally Aldridge (@redfae) on Apr 1, 2019 at 4:00am PDT

Preparation

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I have been busy prepping for Camp NaNoWriMo but still have a long way to go. I'm pleased with how my MC is coming together although still don't have a name for her. She is a Journalist student in her final year of Uni – feel free to suggest names. Tonight, I've started outlining. This is the first time I've used Save The Cat method to do this. In the video you will see question marks where I need to go back as I'm not finished. I got to Act 2, Beat 8. I estimate the full novel will be 70k to 100k. For Camp NaNo I'm only aiming to do the first 15k to 30k. I want to finish my outline before I start but those first beats are the most important for April. How is your Camp NaNo Prep going? #campnanowrimo #campnano #campnanowrimo2019 #campnanoprep #newadult #newadultfiction #newadultromance #paranormalromance #urbanfantasy #vampire #workinprogress #writingproject #savethecat #outlining #outliningyournovel #novelplanning #plotter #instagramwriters #writersofinstagram #writerschallenge #writerscommunity #writersgram #writingcomnmunityofinstagram #discoverunder3k #redheadwriter #hustlingwriterscommunity #fellowcreativeminds #urbanfantasyauthorcommunity
A post shared by Author Ally Aldridge (@redfae) on Mar 29, 2019 at 3:46pm PDT

Update 1

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Day 3 – Camp Nano Progress! Oh dear! I actually have not started yet. Anyone else in this position? My month started out super busy with my evenings stolen by other commitments. I'm doing a course and I promised someone feedback on their project. These aren't excuses and I'm not going to quit due to a poor start. Other campers will come across obstacles in the coming days and those that make it to the end are the ones that remember there is always tomorrow. But, any progress is better than no progress so tonight I shall write! @jodie_at_home are you word sprinting tonight on Twitter – can I join you? I need some motivation to get started. #campnano #campnanowrimo #campnanochallenge #campnanoapril #instawrimo #campnano2019 #campnanowrimoapril2019 #wrimo #wrimosofig #wrimosofinstagram #instawrimo2019 #instawrimoapril #HustlingWritersCabin #nanowrimo #namowrimo2019 #noprogress #nanoprogress #writerslife #writerschallenge #discoverunder3k #hustlingwriterscommunity #fellowcreativeminds #urbanfantasyauthorcommunity #writerswrite #wordsprint #writerssupportingwriters #paranormalromance #newadultfiction
A post shared by Author Ally Aldridge (@redfae) on Apr 3, 2019 at 3:30am PDT

Update 2

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Last night, I made a start on my Camp Nano project and wrote 1,166 words! I'm pretty pleased with my first chapter. I feel I've manged to clearly set my MCs challenges, needs and a catalyst already. I'm looking forward to writing the next chapter where she's going to seek a job at Scarlet House to enable her to work undercover. My chapters at the moment are just scenes as that is how I draft. I've loved free writing and can't wait to add to my story tomorrow. #hustlingwriterscabin #discoverunder2k #hustlingwriterscommunity #fellowcreativeminds #urbanfantasyauthorcommunity #paranormalromance #urbanfantasy #fictionwriter #campnano #campnanoApril #campnanoapril2019 #nanowrimo #nanowrimoapril #nanowrimoapril2019 #writewritewrite #writerswrite #wordcountgoal #goaldigger #novelwriting #firstdraft #workinprogress #writerschallenge #writersofinstagram #igwriters
A post shared by Author Ally Aldridge (@redfae) on Apr 6, 2019 at 6:52am PDT

Update 3

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Early this month I blogged about the importance of updating your ‘about me’ section on your website and other social media platforms. Online, I am quite social and on a number of sites so updating them all is going to take a while. An example is my NaNo profile which I created in a rush last year. It already needs updating as not only is it sparse but it only mentions my son as my daughter didn’t exist then. In addition, I’ve developed some new interests. It’s amazing how much can happen in a year. Tell me something new about you from the last 12 months? #campnanowrimo #campnanowrimo2019 #hustlingwriterscommunity #hustlingwriterscabin #nanoprofile #writersofinstagram #writingcommunity #writerscommunity #writer #redheadwriter #fellowcreativeminds #wrimo #nanowrimo #nanowrimo2019 #aspiringauthor #nanoproject
A post shared by Author Ally Aldridge (@redfae) on Apr 8, 2019 at 3:59am PDT

Update 4

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Who are your cabin mates? My cabin mates are are all part of the #hustlingwriterscommunity , a group of writers that have other responsibilities that make it challenging to find time to write. The struggle is easier when you have a supportive cabin cheering you on. It helps me get over the bad days quicker and focus on my achievements instead of giving up. We can relate to each other’s time problems. We have fallen a little behind target but we are still making steady progress and I’m confident we will achieve our goals together. We will certainly have done better than if we had never tried. I think these are the Instagram handles of my cabin mates (I’m not sure who the others are on IG): @midnightstarlightwrites @wordsaremagic88 @jenjeng89 @annamlancaster @colleen.is.writing @mommajedi2382 @aliceinthewillowtree #hustlingwriterscabin #discoverunder2k #fellowcreativeminds #urbanfantasyauthorcommunity #paranormalromance #urbanfantasy #fictionwriter #campnano #campnanoApril #campnanoapril2019 #nanowrimo #nanowrimoapril #nanowrimoapril2019 #writewritewrite #writerswrite #wordcountgoal #goaldigger #novelwriting #firstdraft #workinprogress #writerschallenge #writersofinstagram #igwriters #writingchallenge #amwriting
A post shared by Author Ally Aldridge (@redfae) on Apr 11, 2019 at 2:23am PDT

Update 5

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I’m so pleased, tonight I’ve managed to get in a good hour of writing. I wrote 1,338 words taking my total to 6,197 words. Looking at the graph I would say I’m pretty much on track. I’m glad I did the outlining before starting as it is helping know what to work on next although tonight I think I jumped the timeline a little so when I edit I’ll need to add some build up in before tonight’s scene. Nevermind. You can edit a bad page but you can’t edit a blank page. Better written than not. How’s your writing going? #campnano #campnanowrimo #campnanochallenge #campnanoapril #instawrimo #campnano2019 #campnanowrimoapril2019 #wrimo #wrimosofig #wrimosofinstagram #instawrimo2019 #instawrimoapril #HustlingWritersCabin #nanowrimo #namowrimo2019 #noprogress #nanoprogress #writerslife #writerschallenge #discoverunder2k #hustlingwriterscommunity #fellowcreativeminds #urbanfantasyauthorcommunity #writerswrite #wordsprint #writerssupportingwriters #paranormalromance #newadultfiction
A post shared by Author Ally Aldridge (@redfae) on Apr 13, 2019 at 1:25pm PDT

I hope when I post in early May on how I got on that I will have good news and be able to share my success with you. Wish me luck!

Update: Click here to read my diary for middle to the end.

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December 1, 2018 Ally Aldridge Goals, Writing

NaNo Progress Diary (the end)

Thursday, 29th November 2018

10:30pm

I am super tired and it would be so easy to quit right now. I’m feeling pretty defeated with about 8k to go and only today and tomorrow to achieve my goal of 25k.

But, I am no quitter! If I don’t make it, I’d rather know I tried my absolute hardest and achieved my best than to cop out.

So, I managed to get about 500 words done in the day and then tonight, I added some more, making today’s contribution 1,520 words, taking the grand total to 19,645 words.

I’m not feeling confident that I’ll reach 25k but 20k looks doable and that would still be a great achievement.

Friday, 30th November 2018

11:50pm 5457

Today, has started with a goal of 5,452 words to achieve my NaNo goal of 25k this month. It feels impossible with my daily average not peaking 1k and my best ever not even being half of today’s goal. I shall do my best to have a word marathon today and finish with as many words as I can.

Our boiler has gone, so I’ve cancelled my plans and had to stay in for the enginereer. This has given me the perfect excuse to spend all day in front of my laptop, whenever Aria naps. As a result, I got 700 words written.

Then, when I collected Noah from school, we got home and did his homework together. After, he asked if he could go on his Kindle and I could go on my laptop. Well, I wasn’t going to argue with that and managed to add another 700 words to the total.

Tonight, I bathed both the little ones in the hope they would fall into a deep sleep so I could get on with my writing – it worked! But, when I got downstairs my husband’s best friend was round and chatty. I chatted with him until I plucked up the courage to be anti social and dedicated to my art and sat at my laptop – luckily he is lovely and a great supporter of my writing.

Finally, I get writting and I’m thiniking 4k to go is not going to happen. Twenty minutes in and my husband’s best friend asks what I am writing and I quickly explain NaNoWriMo and when I check my word count, I have only 3k to go! If I can keep that up, maybe I can do it.

I find myself word count watching and the closer I get, the more i am checking. The more I am checking, the more pressure I am feeling. The more pressure I feel, the harder it is to write. Then, Dabble Writer bursts into fireworks to celebrate me reaching 25k. I did it! I can’t quite believe it but I have.

Today, I have written 5,457 words (my highest daily word count ever) making my grand total 25,005 words. I have now achieved the 25k NaNo Badge!

Reflecting on NaNo

I am so proud of myself for my achievement. I know I didn’t do the full 50k but I did achieve my goal of 25k and got a new NaNo Badge. Plus, I now have a new daily word count best that is going to be a hard one to beat.

My husband’s best friend was cheering me on which was a great help. Afterwards he asked, “What goal will you set next?” I’m not ready to answer that yet as I’m exhausted and relieved it is over. But, I am going to set some soon, as it does help.

My motto for this NaNoWriMo is “You’ve got to be in it to win it!” If I hadn’t tried, I would never have made it. There were plenty of occasions I felt like giving up and wondered why I was even bothering when my chances looked so bleak. But, I proved myself wrong and it feels great!

Did you do NaNoWriMo? How did you get on? If you like this post, then you may enjoy reading about my NaNoWriMo Project or read my NaNoWriMo diary entries for Week One, Week Two, Week Three or Week Four.

November 29, 2018 Ally Aldridge Uncategorized

NaNo Progress Diary (week four)

Thursday, 22nd November 2018

10:30pm

Admittedly, I have not done any writing this evening but my plan is to get my blog posts written and out of the way so I can focus on just novel writing for the rest of the month… Wasn’t quite as productive as I hoped.

Friday, 23rd November 2018

10:30pm

Guess who is ill now? Me! I have a cold and I think Aria knows as she has been impossible to settle tonight. She has finally gone to sleep and I’m shattered. Just wanted to quickly update my diary before going to sleep. I didn’t even get to grab some Black Friday bargins.

Saturday, 24th November 2018

10:30pm

I’m officially full of cold. I finished a rather lengthy blog post (Christmas Gifts for writers – coming soon) and once the little ones were in bed, I actually got to write.As there has been a bit of a break I was slow to get strarted but once I got going I really enjoyed it and I’m enjoying where the story is going again as my characters are now on a quest for dragon’s fire.To finish my 25k in time, Dabble worked out I needed to write 1,432 words but I managed to smash that and wrote 1,571. I love how Dabble’s interface clears whilst you are typing on your manuscript making it void of distractions. I also loved how it notified me that I had met my daily goal so I didn’t have to keep track of how many words I had typed.

Sunday, 25th November 2018

10:00pm

I’m not sure what has gotten into Aria tonight but she wasn’t in agreement to go to sleep. I have only managed to just get her down and now I am too tired to write – Boo!

Monday, 26th November 2018

9:30pm

Shamefully, I didn’t manage to do any writing today. Aria carried only waking up every hour last night so I am shattered today. It has taken its toll on me and together with my cold I am in desperate need of an early night.

Tuesday, 27th November 2018

10:00apm

Wow, what a busy day! This morning was the last parent maths class. I then hurried over for the first day of baby massage class. I then went home for lunch and decided to skip the baby singing group which Aria loves because I needed a chance to breathe.Then, I picked my son up from school. Had dinner then went to a Tropics Ambassador event (I am interested in joining). When I got home it was late and I had to start the battle with Aria to get her to sleep.There was barely a moment today to even think about my story, let alone write. I wish I had written more yesterday.

Wednesday, 28th November 2018

10:00pm

Aghhh, I am feeling the pressure of Christmas coming and birthday parties, so I had to cram in a bit of online shopping before writing. I also don’t want my blog to go radio silent, so in the background I have been drafting the outline of some posts.I’m pleased to confirm that I also managed to write. I added another 1480 words to my word count.

Reflecting on week 4

I am so tired, I feel like I am running on empty at the moment. Any energy I have left I am spending on my children. I have found that keeping a NaNo diary is makng me feel more unaccountable for my word count because I really am cringing everytime I have to explain to you guys why my daily word count is zero. I’m also finding Dabble great at helping me see how many words I need to write each day to achieve. It is really motivating and also after skipping a few days I can see the impact of my actions (or lack of it).

My motto for this week’s NaNoWriMo is “Any progress, no matter how small, is better, than no progress at all” Are you doing NaNoWriMo? How are you getting on? If you like this post, then you may enjoy my week three diary for NaNoWriMo November 2018 or NaNo Done. If you want to know what I have been working on, please check out my NaNoWriMo Project post.

November 21, 2018 Ally Aldridge Blogging, Fiction, Goal setting, Goals, Novel, Writing

NaNo Progress Diary (week three)

Thursday, 15th November 2018

10:20 pm

I thought Aria would never go to sleep but, finally, she did. I am super keen to make sure that week 3 goes better than week 2. To stay on track for 25k I needed to write 955 words… I managed to write 973 word! *phew*

I did get a little distracted today looking up a name for my word cutter/huntsman character. Then, I didn’t even use it!

Friday, 16th November 2018

11:00 pm

Tonight, I have been blogging and researching content for my blog.

This week I have also been meeting with companies to discuss at home business opportunities as I am looking into ways to bring in a little income without compromising my commitment to my children. I’ve got some serious thinking to do and it has been quite distracting.

Saturday, 17th November 2018

11:00 pm

I didn’t feel motivated to write this evening as I feel stuck in my story and I’m still beating myself up about how poorly I did last week and that I didn’t write last night.

I’m so glad that I put my butt in the seat because I managed to write 1,352 words tonight and once I got into the chapter, I really enjoyed writing it. I wrote in third person tonight which isn’t my usual style (I’m a die hard first person POV write) but I was writing from another characters perspective and I think using a different style helped me get past the point I am stuck.

I’ve no idea where the story will take me tomorrow. I didn’t have much time to plan an outline for this one and I have no idea where the story is going just an idea of what I want it to achieve. The vagueness is now causing me problems. I used to be a pantser but with my limited writing time available, these days I really do need a plan.

My 25k goal is still doable but there is no chance I will achieve 50k. I’m glad I set a more realistic goal for myself.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BqTBFrQFY1d/

Sunday, 18th November 2018

10:30 pm

Do you ever feel like everything is working against you? I thought today might be tricky to write as it was also my son’s joint birthday party.

Unfortunately, my son woke up and was sick. As it was a joint party it still went ahead but without him. I ran around town making sure that my contribution (money, food, etc) was still made available to the other mums. The whole point of a joint party was to share the costs.

Once I got both little ones to bed I went to my PC, only to find that my cat had made herself comfortable on my chair. She had that look on her face that told me she would not be moving. After, coaxing her off the chair I logged onto the PC. By then, my husband and his friend were watching a new TV series on Netflix – it looked pretty good and kept distracting me.

However, I am pleased to say I did manage to write, even if it was only 607 words.

Monday, 19th November 2018

9:00 pm

Noah had to be kept off school due to the 48h rule to prevent him passing on his tummy bug, however, he has been absolutely fine all day which meant he wanted entertaining. There was no opportunity to sneak in a few extra words for my manuscript. I made him do homework every time he said “I’m hungry,” before giving him a snack. Which if you know any 4 year olds, that is a lot of homework.

Now, both the little ones are in bed it it my time. But, I am struggling to focus on my project when I can feel Christmas fast approaching and all the Black Friday sales have started early! I’m always looking for ways to save money so I’m finding it hard to resist temptation to shop.

10:30 pm

I managed to write 1,022 words before being called away mid sentence by a hungry baby. I just felt like I was getting back into it too. It is too late to go back downstairs and I’m tired, so, sweet dreams all. Tomorrow, I’m going to try and double my daily word count.

Tuesday, 20th November 2018

10:10 pm

Noah was well enough to go to school today. Today was Stay and Play at school so I was there for the afternoon.

Tonight, neither of the little ones wanted to go to sleep. The oldest one kept claiming to need the loo and needs reminding about hand washing. And, the little one seemed to know when I left the room, despite my expert ginger ninga skills and would start crying.

So, despite challenging conditions, I have managed to write 927 words. To get back on track, I currently need to be doing 1,029 words per day. I am behind target but I’m no quitter!

Wednesday, 21st November 2018

3:15pm

I’m so pleased that this afternoon I got to write. Noah is at school and Aria is asleep. But, now it’s time to go and pick him up so I’m going to end there with my 359 words and hope I get a chance to add some more this evening.

10:15pm

I’m glad I got to write earlier as Aria has been difficult to settle tonight. She is teething and experiencing her first cold, bless her, so really struggled to fall asleep – it could be a long night.

I am not going to write tonight, however, I did chat with a friend about my project which helped generate some fresh ideas to work on. I also drew a picture earlier today of one of the villains in the story.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BqdVerMFNvK/

Reflecting on week 3

Obviously, I hadn’t anticipated a sick boy or a restless baby but despite these challenges, I feel week 3 has gone better than week 2. But, I still want to do better!

Not writing an outline for my novel or doing any preparation is really taking its toll now. I’m struggling to know what direction to take the story in and every time a new character is introduced I have to come up with a name and think about what makes them who they are.

Plus, ‘Black Friday’ sales are cropping up everywhere and reminding me that it is Christmas next month and although we don’t go overboard… I haven’t done anything.

My motto for this week’s NaNoWriMo is “If you take time to plan, you save time in the long run.” Are you doing NaNoWriMo? How are you getting on?

If you like this post, then you may enjoy my week two diary for NaNoWriMo November 2018 or Week Four. If you want to know what I have been working on then check out my NaNoWriMo Project post.

November 14, 2018 Ally Aldridge Goals, Writing

NaNo Progress Diary (week two)

Thursday, 8th November 2018

8:30 pm

This morning, I went to the sling library, then did the school run, I managed to bath both kids, get them to bed and now I am downstairs ready to write.

10:12 pm

I managed to beat my daily word count and add another 1,116 words to my manuscript. However, I have been seriously distracted by inspirational pictures of Pegasuses and my husband is watching Chilling Adventures of Sabrina (a show I recently watched and loved). I have done a lot of procrastinating tonight so I am amazed I managed to write anything!

https://youtu.be/ybKUX6thF8Q

Friday, 9th November 2018

9:15 pm

I must confess that today I have failed to add to my manuscript. In the background I have been blogging so not it has not been completely free of writing. Now, I am ready for an early night.

Saturday, 10th November 2018

10:00 pm

Today was all about preparing for Christmas. We went to a fair but it was so busy we gave it a miss as you could hardly move and cost £3 per person for the privilege. So we went into town instead.

Then in the evening, I created my Xmas wish list on Pinterest… but, still no writing. I hope I’ve not lost my mojo.

Sunday, 11th November 2018

9:00 pm

Today we worked on getting the house straight then went for some drinks at our local Royal British Legion for Remembrance Sunday. I got to have my first Malibu in over a year.

Once home, we ate dinner, got the kids to bed and now I can barely keep my eyes open. I’m gutted as this is day three that I’ve not written. But, I won’t give up! Sweet dreams all, tomorrow is a new day…

Monday, 12th November 2018

9:00 pm

Tonight, I can’t relax to write. Noah has come home from school with a cold and isn’t himself. To make matters worse, Aria is so unsettled. I’m running between rooms and I don’t think I’m going to sleep, let alone write!

Tuesday, 13th November 2018

9:00 am

No surprise here, Noah is off school today. He really is full of cold. I think Aria is teething, she’s dribbling, chewing her hand, off her food, doesn’t like her dummy and unsettled. This is going to be a long day.

3:00 pm

I finally got dressed. Noah is now with my mother in law as we need to take Aria to the hospital for her appointment.

8:00 pm

Aria was tired but didn’t want to sleep. Every time I put her down she would start screaming. This time she has stayed quiet so I’m hoping she’ll keep asleep as I am starving and want my dinner.

Not sure I’ll get to write today and in really disappointed. This weeks word count is dire and I’m worried I am too far behind now despite my strong start.

10:30 pm

I got to eat my dinner and I had pudding! Then we wrapped Noah’s bday presents ready for him to come down to in the morning… But, I didn’t add to my NaNo word count. With only one day left this week, it is not looking good.

Wednesday, 14th November 2018

9:45 pm

Noah was off school again today and it was his birthday. Although he was unwell, he was also really happy and full of excitement which didn’t work well with Aria being grumpy. I’m pretty sure she is teething as she is chewing her fists and is really sensitive about her bottle or dummy going in her mouth. It is has been a tough day trying to keep an excited birthday boy – now 5 years old – calm when I have got a tired baby to sleep.

I was exhausted when my husband got home and after dinner, he asked if there was anything he could do to help and all I wanted was a shower. It is funny how something so simple can give you a new lease of life. After putting the little ones to bed, I felt ready to write.

Dabble says I need to write 947 words today to keep on track for my 25k goal. I have managed to write 822 words which I think is pretty good considering the day I had.

Reflecting on week 2

Week 2 has not been great. I am embarrassed by my progress but I am tenacious so I will not give up. I can still make 25k by the end of the month. I hope next week is more promising.

My motto for this week’s NaNoWriMo is “Make excuses or make progress.” Are you doing NaNoWriMo? How are you getting on?

If you like this post, then you may enjoy my week one diary for NaNoWriMo November 2018 or Week Three. If you want to know what I have been working on then check out my NaNoWriMo Project post.