Write-ins are one of the key motivational ingredients for NaNoWriMo. There are few things quite as effective in getting your own writing done as doing it alongside other writers who are working on their novels. We have a lot of write-ins scheduled across our region as part of (and in addition to) the Library Crawl(the program that lets you rack up chances to win gift cards, including the grand prize of a $100 Amazon gift card, just be going to a Library Crawl write-in and collecting the card there).

Huzzah Balls

Another fun element of write-ins are the Huzzah Balls. These aren't at every write-in, but you should feel free to make some of your own (they generally are a crumpled up piece of newspaper with a streamer tied to it, all wrapped in something bright or shiny). At a write-in that features them, you can pick one up, set yourself a writing goal (e.g., a plot-based milestone, like finishing a scene, or reaching a 5K word boundary, or killing off a character). When you accomplish that goal within the write-in, even in the middle of a word war, you can stand up, gently toss your huzzah ball up into the air and into the center of the room (taking care not to hit anyone with it) and exclaim "Huzzah!" Everyone will applaud your accomplishment!

It is remarkably fun and cathartic. You should give it a try.

Word count spreadsheet

Any time you go to a write-in, you should visit naperwrimo.org/wordcount and add your name and word count information to the worksheet associated with that write-in. This helps greatly in tracking word wars, box o' doom contests and the like. It also is a way for folks who might be joining remotely (via our slack channel) to participate in word wars.

Write-ins

See the Guide to Write-insfor more information, including on how to host a write-in. Note that all our write-in events are on our regional calendar.

What should you bring to a write-in? Your novel and whatever you need to make progress on it (e.g., your laptop or your notebook and pen; in general, even though typewriters are cool, please don't plan to bring a typewriter because they tend to be rather noisy). A beverage of your choice (I think all our library write-in venues allow this) and snacks for munchies if you like; and possibly an extension cord if your laptop needs power (we will have powerstrips at most venues, but you might need some extra reach).

Write-ins generally are friendly events. Most of ours are hosted; someone will be there to run the word wars (timed writing sprints with optional small prizes) and other motivational games. All our events are open to the public.

In our region, feel free to bring your stuffed animal. :-). This is mine: Brownie, our regional mascot. She's a comfort and an inspiration.

Do you want to host your own write-in? Definitely post about it in our regional forum; we can add your event to our regional calendar. All advertised events must also be open to the public.

Questions? Just let us know.

Thanks!

--Tim

For those of you new to the region, you may not be familiar with some of the smaller things we do at Write-Ins. It'll vary from write-in to write-in, but keep your eye out for fun!

Word Wars

We set a time and compete to see who can write the most words in 5, 10, 15, or 20 minutes. Weoften run these viaour slack channel, so those who are virtually attending can join in the fun! And cuz they're easy to set up, its not uncommon for those hanging on in the chat on a random night to have one or two themselves. They're a great way to get words on the page!

Bowl of Doom

A collection of prompts and nightly word count goals, stick your hand in to pull out a challenge! You'll have the whole write-in to complete your doom task, and if you do it you get a prize!

I am looking forward to tomorrow's write in! my first one of the month! AND...one of the fun ones! Got a few ideas in mind for myself to get motivated... can't wait for those HIYAAAH-err...huzzah balls! I am so pumped!!!