48 hours until NaNo!

So, I don't know about you, but I woke up thinking about NaNo. November isn't November for me. It's NaNoWriMo. People know that I go into hibernation and if I don't respond, it means word count goals haven't been hit for the day. Tomorrow, when people wish me happy Halloween, I will wish them a Happy NaNo eve. And I will stay up til midnight and tap out at LEAST the first paragraph. Yes, I'm that much of a nerd. All of the books on my roster are past NaNo winners.

There are several ways to get ready for NaNo and since this year it starts on a weekend - do yourself a favor - clean the house, do your laundry, get your desk/writing area ready today. Tomorrow, go grocery shopping, cook meals for the next few days, so all you have to do Saturday is shower and write (no, you don't have to shower until you hit the first 1,667).

Make sure you know your characters. At least well enough that they help you write the story a bit. Some times they change up on you in the middle of the story, but when you're working on a time crunch like this, it makes it smoother if you know your characters as much as possible.

If you write with an outline, have that ready. If you don't normally have an outline, it wouldn't hurt to have a loose one handy in case you get stuck. NaNoWriMo has been known to throw curve balls and leave people plot bunniless (is that a word? It is now.). And those of you (us) who stick to a tight outline. Don't be afraid to color outside of the lines. Some of my better scenes were written because of challenges given by MLs.

And there's another tip to NaNo, get on the site and find your region and attend a write in that is in your area. They really help shake the cob webs loose in the middle of the month when writing 1,667 words a day starts to wear on you.

Also, since it starts this weekend, take advantage of the that and try to get ahead so if works or kids or life gets in the way this week, you won't be that behind.

I found an article with tips and last minute checklists that will hopefully help with a smooth start to NaNo 2014:

NaNoWriMo: Quick Preparation Tips and Resources

by SUZANNAH WINDSOR FREEMAN

Are you entering the National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) contest this November?

How It Works

You must produce a 50,000 word piece of fiction, from scratch, by midnight on November 30th. NaNoWriMo works on the honour system.

Pros: No entry fees; forces you to write a lot over a short period of time; you have nothing to lose by entering.

Cons: No prizes, so less motivation; you’ll probably produce writing of questionable quality under such constraints; it’s easy to quit because there are no consequences.

Do the pros outweigh the cons? That’s a decision you’ll have to make for yourself. You can check out the full details here, or browse FAQs.

Quick NaNoWriMo Tips

How do you plan to get that book written in such a short time? Here are some tips to keep you on track as you race to the finish line:

• Know why you’re entering. If you’ve got a story itching to get out, do it. If you’re only acting on a whim, you’re likely to fail.
• Talk to your family. Let them know you’re participating in the competition. You’re going to need their understanding if you’ll be pulling out your hair for a month.
• Connect with other writers. Find an accountability partner to help keep you on track.
• Set strict writing hours. Choose a time when you’re sure you won’t have other responsibilities. If you have a day-job, you’ll want to plan to write first thing in the morning or late at night.
• Set a daily word quota. Don’t be tempted to slack one day and try to make up for it the next, unless you have a really good excuse.
• Find a good spot to write. An office, a desk by a window, the kitchen table—wherever you’re comfortable. Make it your space with all the materials you’ll need to write your novel (computer, pens, pencils, lined paper, blank paper, reference books, research, etc.)
• Compost. Spend some time mentally composting your basic premise and characters before the start date so you’re ready to begin on time.
• Outline. Prepare a written outline and character sketches to work from (this is permitted in the official rules).
• Write what you know. Unless you’ve done pre-research for your idea already, choose a story line that won’t require a lot of extra research during the writing stage.

Get the “Read Better, Write Better” Workbook FREE!

By helping you evaluate novels as you read, this 30-page workbook will improve your understanding of what makes them bestsellers—or mediocre shelf-fillers.

Print off your copy of the Read Better, Write Better workbook today. If you deconstruct a novel or two before the end of the October,  you’ll increase your chances of writing a worthy NaNoWriMo manuscript—that is, one you’ll want to continue to work with even after the contest is over.

The eBook includes:

• a printable novel study template
• a list of creative reading activities
• an example workbook
• an interactive glossary with links to online resources

Find out how you can get your free copy here.

Free Online Resources for NaNoWriMo

If you want to write a novel in a month, you’ll need to prepare. Check out the following free resources to help you:

1. 5 Resources to Help You Plan your NaNoWriMo Novel, Procrastinating Writers
2. 9 Ways to Prepare for NaNoWriMo, Write Anything
3. Five Must-Have Resources for Nanowrimo, Web Stuff 4 Writers
4. NaNoWriMo Tracker Template and Some Resources, Domestic Joy
5. Must-Have Tools for NaNoWriMo, Learn to Write Fiction

Helpful Articles from Write It Sideways

• The Top 12 Benefits of Outlining Your Novel: Why should you bother with outlining? Here are 12 ways it can help you write your novel.
• 5 Visual Strategies for Planning Your Novel: Use these techniques to help you visualize your plot.
• 6 Ways to Hook Your Readers from the Very First Line: Don’t stuff around with boring bits—get straight to the interesting parts!
• The #1 Reason You’ll Never Finish Writing Your Novel: Are you writing, or are you procrastinating?
• How to Steal a Plot for Your Book (and get away with it): Feeling uninspired? Why not steal someone else’s plot?

NaNoWriMo Last-Minute Checklist

• Have you officially registered?
• Are you familiar with all the rules?
• Do you have outline notes on key elements of your story?
• Have you completed any necessary research?
• Have you set up a comfortable area in which to work?
• Do you have written evidence of your writing goals for the next 30 days?
• Have you briefed others in your house about what you’re doing?
• Do you have an accountability partner?
• Have you located important resources for your journey (books, helpful websites, writing articles, support forums)?
• Are you stocked with notebooks, pencils, pens, etc. and is your computer free of glitches?
• Have you prepared a selection of things that inspire you (CD’s of favourite music, photographs, novels, etc.)

Fall Boots 2014

I was on my way to work today and I couldn't help but notice all the cute boots that were out already. (I say already because I'm still in my Nike sandals and will be until Halloween). It was then that I realized that it was Fashion Friday at the BraveGirl blog and I can post anything I want to. SO... I present to you the shopping guide to Fall Boots.

The Ultimate Online Shopping Guide To Fall Boots

The Huffington Post  | By Chanel Parks

Posted: 09/24/2014 7:00 am EDT Updated: 09/24/2014 7:00 am EDT

Tis' the season to get your booties and thigh-highs in order, because as the air gets crisp you'll finally be able to complete your cozy outfits with the most exciting thing about the season: boots.

Lucky for us, there's the world wide web out there with just about any style boot you can think of -- but, as we all know, with infinite options come infinite choices.

But don't worry, we've done all the work for you. Below is the ultimate guide to fall boot shopping, broken down by why we love them. Whether you're looking for the best prices, the trendiest kicks or extended sizes, we have a store for you.

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Best Return Policies: If you're indecisive or just want to make sure there's no return hassle, check out these online gems that have great styles AND amazing customer service.

ASOS [See return policy here]

From left to right: ASOS EAGLE Ankle Boots, ASOS CLOUD Calf High Boots, ASOS ROAR Chelsea Ankle Boots

Madewell [See return policy here]

From left to right: Dr. Martens 1460 Mono Boots, The Sidney Boot, The Hayes Boot

ALDO [See return policy here]

From left to right: Rivis, Marina, Saya

Anthropologie [See return policy here]

From left to right: Rachel Comey Midnighter Booties, Kelsi Dagger Valerie Boots, Seychelles Dorado Booties

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The Best Quality For Your Buck: Boots can last a long time if you care for them -- but keep your TLC at a minimum with good quality kicks that will definitely be worth the money.

Piperlime

From left to right: Circus By Sam Edelman: Abbie, Hunter Original Tall Rain Boots, Cynthia Vincent: Devon

Frye

From left to right: Veronica Criss Cross Short, Harness 12R, Valerie Pull On

L.L. Bean

From left to right: Merrell Decora Chant Waterproof Boots, Deerfield Rustic Harness Boots, 8" Bean Boots By L.L. Bean

Ash Footwear

From left to right: Ash Red Womens Boot Black Leather, Ash Storm Womens Boot T-Moro Distressed Leather, Ash Strike Womens Boot Black Leather

Solestruck

From left to right: SB23103 By See By Chloe, Mulder By Jeffery Campbell, Pascal By Dr. Martens

Stuart Weitzman

From left to right: Mackinac, The Highland Boot, The Carltone Bootie

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Trendy Picks For Cut-Throat Prices: Try fall's coolest trends without breaking the bank.

Zara

From left to right: Wide-Heeled Leather Bootie, High Heeled Printed Leather Bootie, Leather Wedge Mountain Bootie

Topshop

From left to right: Allsorts Chelsea Boots, Billy Croc Buckle Boots, Annette Suede Leopard Boots

Nasty Gal

From left to right: Bruges Boot - Ivory, Amali Boot, Eastside Combat Boot

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Best Sales: This is for the people who click straight to the clearance section... a.k.a. us.

DSW

From left to right: Heart Soul Cocoa Wedge Bootie, Diba Low Tilda Welt Bootie, Rock & Candy Bulldozer Bootie

6pm.com

From left to right: Steve Madden Troopa, DV By Dolce Vita Sloane, Tsubo Sevan

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Best For Extended Sizes: Have tiny feet? Need a wider shoe? These are the places for you.

Amazon

From left to right: Jessica Simpson Women's Allest Boot, Lauren Ralph Lauren Women's Jaden Boot, Justin Boots Women's Gypsy Boot

Nordstrom 

From left to right: TOMS 'Desert' Suede Wedge Bootie, Michael Kors 'Regina' Over The Knee Boot, Halogen 'Riley' Open Toe Bootie

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Most User-Friendly: Online shopping can be hard, but these sites have easy interfaces and a lot of search filters that will basically do the shopping for you.

Zappos

From left to right: Kork-Ease Velma, Hunter Hunter Original Metal, Franco Sarto Padua

Overstock 

From left to right: Easos Geal Women's 'Stu01' Lace-Up Jelly Boots, Nature Breeze Women's 'Vickie-hi' Slouched Over-The-Knee Boots,Refresh By Beston Women's 'Wynne-01' Lace-Up Combat Boots

ModCloth 

From left to right: Screen Queen Bootie, Spoken Word Star Boot, Spurs Of The Moment Bootie

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Heavily-Discounted Designer Picks: Splurge to your heart's content on designer digs -- and don't worry, they're still discounted!

The Outnet

From left to right: Oscar de la Renta Mikarete Lace Ankle Boots, Alexander Wang Georgia Distressed Leather Knee Boots, Pierre Hardy Color-Block Glossed-Leather Ankle Boots

Barneys Warehouse

Healthy drinks that aren't water

DISCLAIMER: It is the opinion of the BraveGirl staff that you should stay up on your water intake. Water is the best thing you can drink. Period.


So I say that as I'm drinking my Brisk Tea/Lemonade blend. I was trying to figure out what to talk about for today's blog and I realized that I'm addicted to those dang things. They are SO good. However, they're loaded with empty calories and sugar - two things that I don't really need. Now, I still get in my daily 64 - 80 ounces of water, but every once in a while. you just need something with flavor. So as we head into the holiday season and the winter - I thought I'd find some healthier alternatives to water, so you're still staying healthy  AND getting a little flavor in your life.

As always, I found a list of things.

7 Healthy Beverage Alternatives to Water

Photo Credit: The Sean and Lauren Spectacular

There’s nothing more refreshing than a nice cold glass of delicious water…or is there? It’s nice to have healthy beverage alternatives to water sometimes. Although water is very important to our bodies, drinking a simple glass of water isn’t the only way to nourish our bodies with nutrients and hydration.

Water is the means by which oxygen reaches your cells, nutrients travel to your organs and tissues, and your body removes waste. If your body is dehydrated, you may experience fatigue, pain in your muscles and joints, lower back pain, headache, and constipation. Sometimes, feeling hungry actually means you’re dehydrated. There are many ways, however, to get liquids into your system. Here are some healthy beverage alternatives to water:

1)Green drinks, such as the Just Greens juice from Columbia Gorge Organic, taste great and have a ton of healthy nutrients.

2) Coconut water isn’t just for piña coladas; coconut water has naturally occurring electrolytes, enzymes, amino acids, and phytohormones
in addition to vitamins and minerals important for a healthy body.

3)Unsweetened iced tea, especially fresh home-made sun tea, is a good alternative to water. Freshly brewed tea has the highest levels of flavonoids, an antioxidant.

4)Komboucha tea, an ancient healthy beverage alternative to water the Chinese call the “immortal health elixir,” is a natural detoxifier. This drink will stimulate your metabolism and help you maintain a strong immune system, among many other health benefits. Have it delivered with your next Amazon Fresh order – they are great on the go.

5)Freshly juiced juice is another living drink that’s a delicious way to get your vegetables. Grab a handful of carrots, pineapple, coconut water, and Romaine lettuce. If you don’t have a juicer, a food processor works just fine too. You can also use spinach, collard greens, kale, turnip greens, mustard greens, dandelion greens, and parsley.

6) Almond milk is a protein-rich alternative to cow’s milk, especially if you are lactose intolerant and worried about the side-effects soy milk
can have on your hormones.

7) Cucumber, celery, orange water or lemon infused water is a simple, refreshing, and healthful way to rehydrate.

Surprisingly, at least 20% of the water you need comes from food so other healthy beverage alternatives to water should include eating fresh fruits and garden salads in addition to other green drinks. Water is a key part of a healthy balanced diet and is an essential part of any holistic,
health-first fitness plan. A healthy, balanced life includes feeding your mind, body, and spirit. If you are looking to live a healthier, more balanced life, call Chrome Fit to get started today.

Sheri Covey

NaNo Prep time

And the count down begins! 12 days before the caffeine induced insanity known as National Novel Writing Month begins. Who's in? For those of you who haven't come up with an idea yet, you still have time. Last year, a week before NaNo started, I had decided to not do it, for the third year in a row. But while I was in the shower, an idea hit me and BAM in a week I was back in the game, writing Glow Stick (and doing character development as I went along).

The next several Monday's will be NaNo related (so from now until December). This week, we're going to ease into the NaNo talk and start with a brief overview of what NaNo is for those of you who have never heard of it before.

Here is the direct history from the NaNo God himself - Chris Baty.

Year One: Making Some (Not Entirely Horrible) Noise

The very first NaNoWriMo took place in July 1999, in the San Francisco Bay Area. That first year there were 21 of us, and our July noveling binge had little to do with any ambitions we might have harbored on the literary front. Nor did it reflect any hopes we had about tapping more fully into our creative selves. No, we wanted to write novels for the same dumb reasons twenty-somethings start bands. Because we wanted to make noise. Because we didn’t have anything better to do. And because we thought that, as novelists, we would have an easier time getting dates than we did as non-novelists.

So sad. But so, so true.

The first year’s trials and tribulations are laid out in the introduction to No Plot? No Problem!But the short version is that our novels, despite our questionable motives and pitiful experience, came out okay. Not great. But not horrible, either. And, more surprising than that, the writing process had been really, really fun.

Fun was something we hadn’t expected. Pain? Sure. Embarrassment? Yes. Crippling self-doubt followed by a quiet distancing of ourselves from the entire project? You bet.

But fun? Fun was a revelation. Novel writing, we had discovered, was just like watching TV. You get a bunch of friends together, load up on caffeine and junk food, and stare at a glowing screen for a couple hours. And a story spins itself out in front of you.

I think the scene—full of smack-talk and muffin crumbs on our keyboards—would have rightly horrified professional writers. We had taken the cloistered, agonized novel-writing process and transformed it into something that was half literary marathon and half block party.

We called it noveling. And after the noveling ended on August 1, my sense of what was possible for myself, and those around me, was forever changed. If my friends and I could write passable novels in a month, I knew, anyone could do it.

Which is how the whole thing really got rolling.

– Chris Baty

The rest of the REALLY interesting history

NaNoWriMo is a way to shake the plot bunnies loose (or cause them to run screaming under the bed) and have a lot of caffeine and chocolate. Sleep is for December. You don't "win" anything, unless you set up prizes for yourself (which I do) but it's an excuse to get out and write at a coffee shop and who couldn't use some time at Panera Bread?

If you're interested in signing up, or you're signed up already - feel free to make me a writing buddy. MidWestPrincess - NaNoWriMo official site