Here we go...

This is it...the beginning! Before doing anything else, let me explain my purpose here.

I've always had a love for creative writing. I took several creative writing classes throughout high school and college, have been the editor of a literary magazine, and I've even submitted a couple poems into contests. Creative writing has always been an outlet, a way of self-expression. When it felt like nobody else was listening, I always knew I could put pen to paper and come out of the experience feeling better.

Over the past several years my focus has shifted away from writing just for the joy of it. I've become much more focused on just trying to figure out how to make it as an adult--juggling work, school, learning how to teach, and a social and personal life. It hasn't been easy, but it's been great. I've missed my writing though, and this is my attempt to get back into a creative state of mind.

I've always wondered what it's like to consider oneself a novel-writer. For as difficult as it is to get published, there are so many success stories (think Stephenie Meyer...do it, even if you don't wanna) and I can't help but wonder what it would feel like to be able to tell someone, "Yeah, I wrote a novel". A couple weeks ago I was catching up with a friend, and out came the words, "I want to write a novel before I die". Yes, one complete, table of contents, permanent title (no working titles here), has-a-real-ending novel.

Recent class assignments have allowed me to tap into the creative part of my brain again, and I'm remembering how much I used to enjoy writing. So instead of waiting until graduating or until getting settled into my career, etc. etc. I'm starting now! "There's no time like the present", they say. Who cares who "they" is, they are right! Procrastination is a writer's worst enemy (second only to the infamous writer's block)and I'm not going to let it defeat me!

So here is your opportunity to follow me, to help me develop some good ideas, or just to tell me I'm crazy for attempting this. As often as I can (or as often as life permits) I'll be writing my novel. Throughout this experience I'll be posting updates here so that anybody who is interested can follow my progress, and hopefully cheer me on! There may be times where I ask for comments that answer specific questions to help me develop a character, plot, setting, or just to help me find the right word. I welcome any comments, help, and reactions to my insane ramblings. And yes, there will be many insane ramblings!

So to start with, let me ask you all...where the hell do I start?!