Blog, Site Admin

Shout out to NaNoWriMo

NaNoWriMo.org LogoI wanted to welcome the new visitors from the NaNoWriMo site. The Office of Letters and Light asked me to write a Portland-themed article for their blog tour this year and today they launched my post “Roadtrip to NaNo: Keep Your Novel Weird” today.

Next to Tarot, writing is my life. In fact, it’s been my “dayjob” ever since I graduated college. I’ve written essays, test plans, and short stories. But never a book for my own. Until I stumbled on the NaNoWriMo challenge back in 2002. I’ve been a huge proponent of NaNo ever since. It’s a great way for people who want to challenge themselves to write a first draft of a novel, to actually do it, and do it with others who are attempting the same thing. I’ve done it 11 years in a row now and am currently seeking a home for one of those drafts (my non-fiction Tarot manuscript).

Tarot and writing go hand in hand. Not only are they fun to write about as far as meanings go, but you can journal aspects of your day with them. I use the cards to create plots, characters, and settings. I’ve used the cards to act as my writing coach. I’ve even read the cards for other writer’s whose characters had questions about their own actions or directions in life.

This site contains inspiration, stories, and practical items from a 30-something tarot coach who wants to inspire you to attain your dreams. And if you’re participating in NaNoWriMo, good luck and have tons of fun! Thanks for stopping by and if you have questions, drop me a line at innowen at shadesofmaybe.com. I’m always willing to cheerlead those on to victory.

Blog, Outings

Second NaNo Plot Party Wrap-up

Last Wednesday’s NaNoWriMo Plot Party was a lot of fun. we had 14 intrepid authors show up. All eager to meet each other and reveal ideas for their plots. I read for three people and examined the intricacies of character relationships, uncovered possible plots, and showed the power of tarot as a brainstorming tool to enthusiastic minds. We also played a “create a story” dice game and collaged ideas for stories.

I left this party feeling more and more ready for NaNoWriMo 2010. Are you planning on doing NaNo and need help crafting plots or characters? Try turning to the tarot for inspiration.

Blog, Outings

First NaNo Plot Party Wrap-up

We had a great time at the library last night. About 15 people showed up and we had a great time playing games related to plot creation. After an hour’s worth of group games and sharing, we broke up into individual activities. This is where I got to read tarot for the people who were curious about what I could say to them.

All in all, I read for about 4 people and helped them uncover some plot twists, characters and other literary items for their stories this year. Looking forward to seeing what the second plot party reveals!

Blog, Outings

NaNoWriMo Plot Party Readings Tonight

I’ll be reading for my Wrimo peeps at the first plot party. If you’re having issues plotting your story for NaNoWriMo this year or want to create a few extra characters, come see me and we’ll use tarot to brainstorm new ideas. Hope to see you there!

Three Creeks Library, Vancouver, WA
NaNoWriMo Plot Party

NaNoWriMo is a wonderful, seat of your pants writing experience. The goal is to write a complete first draft of a novel in 30 days (or less). Started in 1998 by Chris Baty, NaNoWriMo is an international project that I have been taking apart of for the past 10 years now. Come join us at Three Creeks Library on this evening to learn more about NaNoWriMo, play games with your fellow authors, and allow me to read the cards for your characters or create new ones for November.