My Month of Writing Dangerously

November marks the beginning of National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo).  

For each of the 30 days, I'll attempt to write 1,667 words per day which will result in a 50,000 word novel.  I'll try to make these words cohesive and remain on topic - the "plot," if you will.  I'll attempt to actually use my time wisely and write daily.  (That last part is what I'm most concerned about!)

According to the NaNoWriMo rules, you are allowed to outline your story before you begin writing on November 1.  I have spent hours developing my characters and my plot line.  I have consulted with numerous friends and family (well, my sister) about creating something that the average reader (me) would want to read.  

This is no easy task, dear reader.  In fact, this may be the most creatively difficult adventure I've attempted.  I can go on a hike.  Easy-peasey.  I can take my grandmother across the pond.  No probs.  But to sit down and write a novel is something completely different and completely out of my comfort zone.

Let me be clear: this is NOT the great American novel.  I'm not John Steinbeck or Mark Twain.  I strive to have the humor of Jen Lancaster or the will of Cheryl Strayed.  But in reality, I'm just a mere closet-writer.   That plot line I've spent hours developing isn't exactly....developed.  (Geez....I'm working on it, ok!)  

What do I need from you, dear reader?  SUPPORT.  This support can come in the form of an encouraging text message, or spunky care package filled with M&Ms, Kit-Kats, and Dr. Pepper.  Support could be in the form of a creative suggestion if my poorly planned plot line fails miserably.  

Wish me luck - I'm off to finish outlining before the big month begins!!!  Only 2 days, 9 hours left....but who's counting!!!

Bullying Blog Post

My dear reader,

A few months ago, I wrote a blog post about a personal situation and about the tragedies of bullying.  

Since then, I have been approached by two news agencies about appearing on live television to share this story and even to apologize for death of a peer.

I will not appear on television to discuss bullying.  I only wrote this post because of the (then) upcoming documentary about bullying.  I understand this is a hot-topic and my hope was to encourage people to (1) watch the documentary, and (2) assess your character if you are in a situation which might foster bullying.  

Therefore, I have deleted my previous post.  

Thanks for understanding!

Lessons Learned from Traveling with Family

1.       Bring extra international adapters – there is always something to charge.  Not only will you need to charge normal electronics (i.e. phones, iPads, cameras, etc), everyone will bring their own curling iron and hair straightener.  Mornings are hectic enough and dealing with a dysfunctional hair appliance is no way to begin the morning.  

2.       Be patient with your 74 year old grandmother.  Then, be even more patient.  And don't think she's complaining all the time; she is simply observing the differences of cultures.

3.       Have a backup plan for your hair.  I recommend bringing multiple hair-ties when you leave in the morning.  The humidity of Venice does nothing for our thick, unruly hair.  (Yes, I’m serious.  Yes, this was a problem for us.)

4.       Warn them about the lack of ice and fountain drinks in Europe.  If they want a pop, they’ll have to drink from a lukewarm bottle….and they may not get a straw either.

5.       Bring more Euros than you think you’ll need.

6.       Don’t go too fast.  Noni will get tired and won’t have the chance to appreciate the beauty and wonder of the experience.  She didn't say anything about David's lack of.......girth. 

7.       Call PawPaw more often.  He really missed everyone!

8.       Don’t bring so many bags.  Try to pack as compactly as possible because dealing with another country’s customs is zero fun.  

9.       Be sure it won’t hurt anyone’s feeling when you want to spilt up from the group.  Some people may want to explore while others may want to hang out.  Don’t be offended when a traveling companion doesn’t want to do the exact same thing as you.

10.   Find humor in everything.  Reminiscing about Noni falling into the gondola will provide hours of entertainment later on in the trip.  Laugh as much as possible.