Q:Jaime, you won NaNoWriMo for the first time—in the cab of an 18-wheeler! Somehow you managed to drive all over the country, make pickups and deliveries, and write a novel! How did you do it? Did you get motion sickness? Is writing in a rig better than writing at a desk?
A: I drive a Semi with my partner Matt from coast-to-coast, picking up everything you can think of. I couldn't have written my first NaNo Novel without Matt's support and patience. In November, he drove while I wrote. It was a slow month for us, and I'd write about 2,000 words before driving my shift.
On the occasional overnight delivery, my novel took the passenger seat. Then I would attempt 5,000 words the next time I could get into it. It was frustrating, exhilarating, and challenging all at the same time.
Some days, yes, I got motion sickness. Some Interstates (I won't mention which ones) are hard to hold a laptop on your lap, let alone try and sleep through! I can't say that writing in a Semi is better than writing at a desk. Rest area's aren't as close as your bathroom down the hall, but the scenery changes. Although I haven't finished my novel yet, I got a great start thanks to NaNo and my friends! Thank you!
Jaime grew up in the Finger Lake's region of New York State. She's enjoyed books and the thought of writing one ever since High School. Graduated from SUNY Delhi College with a Associates in Veterinary Technology, but always yearned for the opportunity to drive a Semi like her Father. Jaime's driven over-the-road for more than 3 years now. She's quoted for saying that "she's an over-paid tourist, driving a huge RV across the 48 States."
