November is National Novel Writing Month (aka NaNoWriMo). Once again, I’m participating in the challenge to write 50,000 words by the 30th. By the end of the year, I need a recharge. I’ve already written over 200,000 words in 2021. But I have so many stories to tell, and it all starts with a 50,000 first draft. So, I am jumping into the challenge feet first this year.

I’m writing this today, November 12, because it is also Disney Plus day. If you don’t have a subscription, this is an awesome opportunity to check out what it offers. I love the documentaries. I am endlessly fascinated and encouraged learning about (and witnessing in the case of Into the Unknown, the Frozen 2 documentary I’ve practically memorized by now) other creatives’ processes.

One line has stuck with me throughout this year. When asked what he does if he isn’t inspired by a project, one imagineer answered “I might not always be excited about a job I’m assigned. But it is my job to figure out what makes it exciting.” As a romance writer, I really connected with this statement. I love writing, but sometimes I find myself having to approach a trope I would not necessarily gravitate towards on my own. In the process of making the trope exciting, I find my inspiration.

This month, I’m working on the second of a planned trilogy of Western contemporary romances. I never thought I’d write a cowboy book. But I LOVE IT! It’s been an unexpected joy and–bonus–I am so blessed to announce I am now represented by a literary agent I’ve long admired, Dawn Dowdle of Blue Ridge Literary.

If you haven’t started your 50,000 words yet, don’t worry! You can pick any day to begin. You just have to sit down, turn off your inner editor, and type. We are waiting for your stories!