*** Write-ins: Addendum ***

Hi 'Wrimos--- now that we're really getting into the write-in season, I wanted to just put out there a few reminders. I know we have a lot of newbies, or even oldies who really haven't been out to write-ins before... but even some of us write-in veterans could use a reminder (even me!) since it's been like a Whole Year since we've done Nano!

If others have any reminders or helpful hints to add, please do!

-- If you're organizing a write-in, it helps to put out a sign, a table-tent, a sticker, a copy of "No Plot? No Problem!," or even a torn piece of paper with the words "Nano" scribbled on it--- somewhere on your table, just to let other 'Wrimos know you're there. Or wear a Nano t-shirt.

--If you go to a write-in, it also helps to have some little Nano hint like that, to make it easier to find others. In the way past, I've been to some write-ins where a lot of people were in a busy cafe, and none of us knew the others were doing Nano too until someone walked in and asked outright.

--When in doubt, ask! You can alwasy just ask someone, "Are you doing Nano?" And if they give you a strange look, you will be embarrassed for about 10 seconds and life goes on. Been there, done that! It's no big deal. And who knows, you might then tell the person what Nano is and convert them!

--Here's the deal: you may organize a write-in, or you may go to a write-in, and there's the possibliity that no one else will show. We have lots of write-ins in this region, people are busy, and it's nothing personal, but that's the way it works out sometimes. It reminds me of Natalie Goldberg (of "Writing Down the Bones"), who says that she'd often make writing dates with friends, "meet me at this cafe at such and such time." And she'd tell them not to tell her if they couldn't come--- because she'd made the date, she'd go to the cafe and write, whether or not the friend showed up. It was really a writiing date that she made with herself, and it was a bonus if the friend showed up. So make every write-in a writing date with yourself, and even if no one else shows up, you'll have a great time writing your novel, drinking a good cup of whatever, nibbling on a treat... make it your special time.

--Don't forget to be generous (if you can) to the cafe or restaurant, and the barrista/server. You're taking up space in their business, and getting to be out in some swell environments. Order something extra, leave a nice tip. They are helping to support us by letting us write for several hours.

--Don't be afraid to organize a write-in... it really doesn't have to be a big deal. It can be as simple as you wanting to write at a certain cafe at a certain time, and letting people know that they can join you by posting it on the write-ins set up topic. Nothing fancy has to occur. Just show up and write!

Anything else? I'm blanking out for now.

BTW, my apologies to anyone who showed up at The Bean Factory this morning and didn't "find" the write-in. I did organize that write-in and found out that I had another appointment, and told a few people I wouldn't show up until after 1pm. I should have posted that on the forums. I did walk in to find a nice little group writing away, but I think there may have been a few people who showed up earlier and left without writing.
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Theresa, aka Sapphirestar
Twin Cities ML
http://sapphire.albatross.org
2003: Out of Houdini's Trunk
2004: Rita, Not the Hurricane
2005: Days of Confinement
2006: My Name Is Shay
2007: After 50 Years
2008: The Fat Lady Sings