This week has been tough and I've not really paid attention to my goals so far. I've continued to work on A.C., but been pretty much too distracted to do much else.
See, the house we were trying to buy pretty much ran us to the ground. EVERYTHING is coming due. We had a plan to cover our rent, but now that's fallen through as well (it had to do with financial aide, which is disbursed VERY differently in online programs than I'm used to, and since
tsykika didn't successfully complete the classes, she now won't get that aide and may even now owe the school for the two classes failed). So we're trying to come up with $1400 to avoid eviction now. Everything we get will go into this, minus money for food, but it's still quite...distracting.
At least, if we get help, there's no paperwork involved. :P
But it does mean we won't be doing Thanksgiving this year, and any Christmas at all will be minuscule at best. Getting on track and as stable as we possibly can under the circumstances is far more important.
Course, the kids will tell you I always say there's not going to be much of a Christmas, if one at all, and we still usually manage to have one. Unfortunately, this year I don't see how we're even going to pay for our traditional dinner. Things are just too crazy tight. The hope is that the man's unemployment will kick in, but I don't see even that being enough to do Christmas.
Anyway, going to try to get back on track a little with the weekly goals. Like I said, I've been working on A.C., and I'm actually almost done with my read through pass, which means the crit pass will probably start next week. Don't see as much in cuts happening in this section as in the last, but the crits might help direct me where I can do a little bit more. I've also managed to read about every day since I do that while waiting for girlo when I go to pick her up from school. But those two things have been pretty much it this week.
To do today....
»A.C. chapters 21-30, v6 first pass
» journals:whysper
»daily reading: The Bell At Sealy Head
»White List update
»pick up youngest from school
» continue cleaning/unpacking: books, blankets,garage
The focus today on the cleanup/unpacking: office. Mostly I want to get my books back out of boxes. I think this weekend will be spent cleaning up the garage again because we have a leak, so we really need to get stuff away from the leak area. The man thinks that roof is going to come in as well, and we need things up somewhere safe before that happens. So the garage has become something of a priority as well. I need to locate a crate for the last of our gaming books (no time, no players, no reason to keep them out, but unwilling to sell, assuming they would sell since they're 2nd eds and thus 2 editions out of date, minimum). Also want to find the blankets since the nights are getting cold.
First on the list today, though, is food and meds.
~~~
most recent
whysper not over yet :: journeys Not As Busy, Still Going :: booklog Heat Wave
See, the house we were trying to buy pretty much ran us to the ground. EVERYTHING is coming due. We had a plan to cover our rent, but now that's fallen through as well (it had to do with financial aide, which is disbursed VERY differently in online programs than I'm used to, and since
At least, if we get help, there's no paperwork involved. :P
But it does mean we won't be doing Thanksgiving this year, and any Christmas at all will be minuscule at best. Getting on track and as stable as we possibly can under the circumstances is far more important.
Course, the kids will tell you I always say there's not going to be much of a Christmas, if one at all, and we still usually manage to have one. Unfortunately, this year I don't see how we're even going to pay for our traditional dinner. Things are just too crazy tight. The hope is that the man's unemployment will kick in, but I don't see even that being enough to do Christmas.
Anyway, going to try to get back on track a little with the weekly goals. Like I said, I've been working on A.C., and I'm actually almost done with my read through pass, which means the crit pass will probably start next week. Don't see as much in cuts happening in this section as in the last, but the crits might help direct me where I can do a little bit more. I've also managed to read about every day since I do that while waiting for girlo when I go to pick her up from school. But those two things have been pretty much it this week.
To do today....
»
» journals:
»
»
»
» continue cleaning/unpacking: books, blankets,
The focus today on the cleanup/unpacking: office. Mostly I want to get my books back out of boxes. I think this weekend will be spent cleaning up the garage again because we have a leak, so we really need to get stuff away from the leak area. The man thinks that roof is going to come in as well, and we need things up somewhere safe before that happens. So the garage has become something of a priority as well. I need to locate a crate for the last of our gaming books (no time, no players, no reason to keep them out, but unwilling to sell, assuming they would sell since they're 2nd eds and thus 2 editions out of date, minimum). Also want to find the blankets since the nights are getting cold.
First on the list today, though, is food and meds.
~~~
most recent
whysper not over yet :: journeys Not As Busy, Still Going :: booklog Heat Wave
- mood:
hungry - music:VH1 Jump Start
I keep saying this, but I need to get back to living and stop this waiting thing that the house crap has me going through. At this point, it will either happen or it won't. I can't do anything more (except collect the September documents; & that shouldn't be hard since I know what they are now...a lot of practice, lol) except wait and see, In the meantime, I've let it interfere with way too much of my life. Somehow I have to break that cycle, even if it means I'll be in the midst of a massive packing and cleaning crazy thing in a few weeks (or, conversely, too depressed to even get out of bed).
To get started, one of the first things I need to do is post my weekly goals again. Last week it wasn't so bad because I was completely focused on A.C., but the lack of goals definitely makes me less likely to do anything.
Course, a lot of these might get ignored for the second section of A.C. ;)
2009 Goal Progress
» Finish/Sub A.C. :: prologue-ch10 v6 done
» 375,000 words :: 319,910 (85.31%; 7390 ahead)
» Phoenix to v4/5 :: building draft is almost 73k
» B.C. rough draft :: notes draft coming along
» exercise 5+ days/week :: let this go because of all the crazy running around; time to go back
» weight loss :: goal: 160; last week: +2; total: -16 1/2
»reduce salt intake
» splitting utility payments :: changing this goal to getting caught up/on track
» read 1 book a month :: 14 (w/slush & crits)
»less PS2/3
( All that other stuff.... )
So, didn't list goals because I've not really had any for the past few weeks. As for the overall stuff, I should hit the w/c goal for the year this week. It's all revisions words, but I'll take it. I'll just have to push for more next year. ;)
Course, may not be at this point with another novel next year either, so we'll see.
I know I've gained weight again, but I'm just pleased it's not nearly as bad as it could have been. And, until the stress really kicked in, I was actually maintaining. Once things get stable again, I can get those healthier habits in place and then maybe have a better chance of making it through the stress.
As for the financial stuff, one way or another, we need to get back on track and clean up the mess the house stuff has created before we can do anything else. So that goal definitely has to be readjusted, and there's a good chance we won't make it this year.
At least the reading is going really well. ;)
Goals This Week
Writing/Personal
» A.C. chs 11-20, v6, pass 1
» 250/day; 1500/week
» 250/day; 1500/week in world building
» 1 DII crit
» B.C. plot building
» journals: whysper, journeys, booklog
» daily reading: With The Light vol.4
» exercise: 5 days Core Rhythms + stretch
» lose 2 pounds
Extras This Week
» taking youngest to/from school
» September paperwork to lender
Not a huge list, but feeling like I need to ease back in. The only worries right now, other than the house money getting in, is making a major bill payment before its shut off. We had a water leak cost us nearly $500, and the water company out here isn't good with payment plans: they still want it all in the same month. Tomorrow the husband gets paid. Hopefully the water will still be on Wednesday and I can pay it and the car registration then.
That's the plan anyway. As anyone who's watched me long enough may have noticed, my plans tend to not quite work out the way I hope. :P
Today, the 250, 250 in w.b., and the exercise failed though. Sinus infection + storm headache makes for one sick domy, and I spent the whole morning in bed. I'm hoping to tackle some A.C. tonight. Headache seems to be fading just a little. If I can get some focus despite what pain remains, I think I can start the next section as planned.
Been awhile since I've done this...did ya miss me? ;)
~~~
most recent
whysper breaking the silence :: journeys Crazy Busy :: booklog Small Favor
To get started, one of the first things I need to do is post my weekly goals again. Last week it wasn't so bad because I was completely focused on A.C., but the lack of goals definitely makes me less likely to do anything.
Course, a lot of these might get ignored for the second section of A.C. ;)
2009 Goal Progress
» Finish/Sub A.C. :: prologue-ch10 v6 done
» 375,000 words :: 319,910 (85.31%; 7390 ahead)
» Phoenix to v4/5 :: building draft is almost 73k
» B.C. rough draft :: notes draft coming along
» exercise 5+ days/week :: let this go because of all the crazy running around; time to go back
» weight loss :: goal: 160; last week: +2; total: -16 1/2
»
» splitting utility payments :: changing this goal to getting caught up/on track
» read 1 book a month :: 14 (w/slush & crits)
»
( All that other stuff.... )
So, didn't list goals because I've not really had any for the past few weeks. As for the overall stuff, I should hit the w/c goal for the year this week. It's all revisions words, but I'll take it. I'll just have to push for more next year. ;)
Course, may not be at this point with another novel next year either, so we'll see.
I know I've gained weight again, but I'm just pleased it's not nearly as bad as it could have been. And, until the stress really kicked in, I was actually maintaining. Once things get stable again, I can get those healthier habits in place and then maybe have a better chance of making it through the stress.
As for the financial stuff, one way or another, we need to get back on track and clean up the mess the house stuff has created before we can do anything else. So that goal definitely has to be readjusted, and there's a good chance we won't make it this year.
At least the reading is going really well. ;)
Goals This Week
Writing/Personal
» A.C. chs 11-20, v6, pass 1
» 250/day; 1500/week
» 250/day; 1500/week in world building
» 1 DII crit
» B.C. plot building
» journals: whysper, journeys, booklog
» daily reading: With The Light vol.4
» exercise: 5 days Core Rhythms + stretch
» lose 2 pounds
Extras This Week
» taking youngest to/from school
» September paperwork to lender
Not a huge list, but feeling like I need to ease back in. The only worries right now, other than the house money getting in, is making a major bill payment before its shut off. We had a water leak cost us nearly $500, and the water company out here isn't good with payment plans: they still want it all in the same month. Tomorrow the husband gets paid. Hopefully the water will still be on Wednesday and I can pay it and the car registration then.
That's the plan anyway. As anyone who's watched me long enough may have noticed, my plans tend to not quite work out the way I hope. :P
Today, the 250, 250 in w.b., and the exercise failed though. Sinus infection + storm headache makes for one sick domy, and I spent the whole morning in bed. I'm hoping to tackle some A.C. tonight. Headache seems to be fading just a little. If I can get some focus despite what pain remains, I think I can start the next section as planned.
Been awhile since I've done this...did ya miss me? ;)
~~~
most recent
whysper breaking the silence :: journeys Crazy Busy :: booklog Small Favor
- mood:
determined - music:None
... until she had restored the throne. She could no longer let her kingdom lie fallow.
It was time to return home.
~ Assassin's Choice
Last week wasn't that much better than the week before, not until the weekend anyway, but some really good things did get done. Things promise to continue to be sporadic on meeting goals for a bit—at least until this house and move thing is over. THIS week, however, should be relatively nice in terms of progress. The man is off this week to work on the house (and damn well better get paid vacation pay for it or his boss is going to have a big problem in his office come next pay day), so he's offered to take the youngest in to school to give me my sleep and both my mornings (which will now not be broken up) and my nights (which I can now stay up and work during). Today hasn't been so hot, but a storm migraine always slows me down.
Anyway, onwards to the goals and progress!
2009 Goal Progress
» Finish/Sub A.C. :: v5 done! Need to do some background stuff for v6 changes, then beta it.
» 375,000 words :: 226,643 (60.44%; 46,812 behind)
» Phoenix to v4/5 :: building draft is almost 73k
» B.C. rough draft :: notes draft coming along
» exercise 5+ days/week :: usually 5 days CR + stretch
» weight loss :: goal: 160; last week: +/-0; total: -21 1/2
»reduce salt intake
» do something to make myself feel good every day :: removing for now, just been too distracted/busy
» splitting utility payments :: have a better chance when we get into the house
» read 1 book a month :: 12 (w/slush & crits)
»less PS2/3
( As for last week... )
So, not a fantastic week, especially considering things were cut back because of everything going on with the routine and all, but not a horrible week. Things got done. Most importantly, my v5 revision of Assassin's is done. It would be nice if my betas decided it didn't need any revisions, just a bit of polish, when I get there, but I'm thinking I've got 2 rounds left before we can declare it done and ready for me to send out.
The big focus this week will be getting some of the background material cleared up for the v6 revision, which I hope to start as soon as we're moved (so beginning of October). Most of this is little bits and will require almost no effort on my part (example: changed the name of a particular race of people; fixing that will only need a find/replace in the current manuscript), but some of it is a bit more involved (one character's background is being changed, which will give me a better bead on his personality and speech patterns, both of which I felt were issues even in v5).
And for Dimas fans, no, he's not the one going through changes, so no throwing rotten fruit at me.
Goals This Week
Writing/Personal
» A.C. changes & checks
» 500/day; 3k/week
» 250/day; 1500/week in world building
» 1 short (start, finish, or revise)
» 1 DII crit
» B.C. plot building
» journals: whysper, journeys, booklog
» daily reading: Harrowing the Dragon
» exercise: 5 days Core Rhythms + stretch
» lose 2 pounds
Extras This Week
» packing/cleaning
» Dragon Con prep!
Not a lot going on this week. Kinda hope it stays that way. :P
As for today, I want to do some work on Charms, but will mostly be working on the background stuff for A.C., most of which will probably end up int he world building pile.
Here's hoping the week ends up as good as it looks like it can be!
~~~
most recent
whysper reclaiming myself...again :: journeys Almost There :: booklog Small Favor
It was time to return home.
~ Assassin's Choice
Last week wasn't that much better than the week before, not until the weekend anyway, but some really good things did get done. Things promise to continue to be sporadic on meeting goals for a bit—at least until this house and move thing is over. THIS week, however, should be relatively nice in terms of progress. The man is off this week to work on the house (and damn well better get paid vacation pay for it or his boss is going to have a big problem in his office come next pay day), so he's offered to take the youngest in to school to give me my sleep and both my mornings (which will now not be broken up) and my nights (which I can now stay up and work during). Today hasn't been so hot, but a storm migraine always slows me down.
Anyway, onwards to the goals and progress!
2009 Goal Progress
» Finish/Sub A.C. :: v5 done! Need to do some background stuff for v6 changes, then beta it.
» 375,000 words :: 226,643 (60.44%; 46,812 behind)
» Phoenix to v4/5 :: building draft is almost 73k
» B.C. rough draft :: notes draft coming along
» exercise 5+ days/week :: usually 5 days CR + stretch
» weight loss :: goal: 160; last week: +/-0; total: -21 1/2
»
» splitting utility payments :: have a better chance when we get into the house
» read 1 book a month :: 12 (w/slush & crits)
»
( As for last week... )
So, not a fantastic week, especially considering things were cut back because of everything going on with the routine and all, but not a horrible week. Things got done. Most importantly, my v5 revision of Assassin's is done. It would be nice if my betas decided it didn't need any revisions, just a bit of polish, when I get there, but I'm thinking I've got 2 rounds left before we can declare it done and ready for me to send out.
The big focus this week will be getting some of the background material cleared up for the v6 revision, which I hope to start as soon as we're moved (so beginning of October). Most of this is little bits and will require almost no effort on my part (example: changed the name of a particular race of people; fixing that will only need a find/replace in the current manuscript), but some of it is a bit more involved (one character's background is being changed, which will give me a better bead on his personality and speech patterns, both of which I felt were issues even in v5).
And for Dimas fans, no, he's not the one going through changes, so no throwing rotten fruit at me.
Goals This Week
Writing/Personal
» A.C. changes & checks
» 500/day; 3k/week
» 250/day; 1500/week in world building
» 1 short (start, finish, or revise)
» 1 DII crit
» B.C. plot building
» journals: whysper, journeys, booklog
» daily reading: Harrowing the Dragon
» exercise: 5 days Core Rhythms + stretch
» lose 2 pounds
Extras This Week
» packing/cleaning
» Dragon Con prep!
Not a lot going on this week. Kinda hope it stays that way. :P
As for today, I want to do some work on Charms, but will mostly be working on the background stuff for A.C., most of which will probably end up int he world building pile.
Here's hoping the week ends up as good as it looks like it can be!
~~~
most recent
whysper reclaiming myself...again :: journeys Almost There :: booklog Small Favor
- mood:
content - music:None
Still trying to wake up, but I've already managed to get dishes soaking and my flash subbed to a new market, so that's something. In 30 we eat and I put baby to bed, so, as usual, the writing stuff won't REALLY start until around 1. Most days, I just can't seem to get going before that. Probably a good thing since mornings aren't my most creative time...unless you're talking about 2 AM. ;)
But it is about midweek, so time to do a look at where I stand on the week's goals so far. :)
Goals This Week
Writing/Personal
» A.C. 34.4
» 2 DII crits
» 1000/day; 6000/week :: 2346
»1 short (start, finish, or revise)
» B.C. plot building
» journals: whysper, journeys, booklog
» daily reading: Cygnet
» feel good thing x7 :: 3
» exercise: 2 days Core Rhythms
Extras This Week
»email youngest's teachers
»boyo's IEP
»DII Admin stuff
»DII newsletter
»balance checkbook
»pay bills (28th or 29th and 1st)
»cooking: fritters and meatballs
Doing pretty good, just having trouble fitting CR in this week and having the usual problem with the reading. I get in bed around midnight or so...and pass out. Same thing kinda happened when I went to work on A.C. last night. Turned on a show (always have something on in the background) and ended up vegging then passing out.
I may prefer 2 AM to write, but these 5:30 mornings make me pretty useless in the evenings. :P
Today's To Do List:
» 1000 words
» CR (going to try to fit this in between dropping boyo off at work and picking him back up)
» A.C. 34.4
» journals: journeys,booklog
»dishes
» boyo to work & pick up :: not happening today—he's going to be so upset. :(
» more on paperwork for boyo's school :: have to call and see if I can get some info from his doctor
Definitely going to work on BC today for the word count. Haven't touched it for a few days. Might be able to get a booklog entry in before lunch so I think I'll get started on that.
It's kind of nice to have such a small list. This week has been full of big lists so far.
~~~
most recent
whysper no one :: journey New Focus: Writing :: booklog With the Light...Vol. 3: Raising an Autistic Child
But it is about midweek, so time to do a look at where I stand on the week's goals so far. :)
Goals This Week
Writing/Personal
» A.C. 34.4
» 2 DII crits
» 1000/day; 6000/week :: 2346
»
» B.C. plot building
» journals: whysper, journeys, booklog
» daily reading: Cygnet
» feel good thing x7 :: 3
» exercise: 2 days Core Rhythms
Extras This Week
»
»
»
»
»
»
»
Doing pretty good, just having trouble fitting CR in this week and having the usual problem with the reading. I get in bed around midnight or so...and pass out. Same thing kinda happened when I went to work on A.C. last night. Turned on a show (always have something on in the background) and ended up vegging then passing out.
I may prefer 2 AM to write, but these 5:30 mornings make me pretty useless in the evenings. :P
Today's To Do List:
» 1000 words
» CR (going to try to fit this in between dropping boyo off at work and picking him back up)
» A.C. 34.4
» journals: journeys,
»
» more on paperwork for boyo's school :: have to call and see if I can get some info from his doctor
Definitely going to work on BC today for the word count. Haven't touched it for a few days. Might be able to get a booklog entry in before lunch so I think I'll get started on that.
It's kind of nice to have such a small list. This week has been full of big lists so far.
~~~
most recent
whysper no one :: journey New Focus: Writing :: booklog With the Light...Vol. 3: Raising an Autistic Child
- mood:
groggy - music:None
Woot! Productive day!
Blood Charms outline
starting count: 51
ending count: 1781
gain/loss: +1730
Actual (processed) word count: 1730
Total New Words (Day/Week): 1730 / 3408
Total for the Day: 1730
Total for the Week: 3408
This is just the basic of my plot. Tomorrow begins the harder part: adding scenes that make connections and lead my character where they need to go.
But it is very cool that I made up my missing word count from Monday and then some! :D
For now, though, I need to get ready to go get my boy from work. When I get back, it's time for chapter 32 polishing and, hopefully, posting. :)
~~~
most recent
whysper just one thing :: journey Looking Ahead :: booklog The Queen's Bastard
Blood Charms outline
starting count: 51
ending count: 1781
gain/loss: +1730
Actual (processed) word count: 1730
Total New Words (Day/Week): 1730 / 3408
Total for the Day: 1730
Total for the Week: 3408
This is just the basic of my plot. Tomorrow begins the harder part: adding scenes that make connections and lead my character where they need to go.
But it is very cool that I made up my missing word count from Monday and then some! :D
For now, though, I need to get ready to go get my boy from work. When I get back, it's time for chapter 32 polishing and, hopefully, posting. :)
~~~
most recent
whysper just one thing :: journey Looking Ahead :: booklog The Queen's Bastard
- mood:
excited - music:None
This is pretty much straight from whysper, so if you use the below whysper link to read my personal journal, it's not necessary today. ;)
I thought about noting my goal progress for this year at the top of this post as well, but finally decided against it. I pretty much failed most of them: 288k instead of 350 (which was adjusted down from 450), A. C. is still being revised, almost made my Phoenix goal but not quite, I did get a pro sale but in nonfic instead of my preferred genre (not knocking it, but, um, yea), as for the shorts...well, let's not go there. I am not upset with myself over this, however. It was a bad year and I was pretty much derailed almost from the beginning when I was sick for 6 months and ended up having surgery. Sometimes things just don't work out the way we plan. The idea is to do better next year, yes?
So, here's the official goal post for 2009. You'll note it's getting its own tag. I know this will make my tag list totally deranged in the future, but I like tracking per year. Anyway, on to the post.
I don't do resolutions, and I believe this is my first year of making goals other than those that are for writing, but there are some things I want to take care of next year, and goals seem the best way to approach it. To me, a resolution is a promise. You're not saying, "I'm going to aim for this", you're saying, "I will do this." A promise is not something I make lightly, and I try to make promises I know I can keep because I'm giving my word and my word is important to me. It needs to be trustworthy. Resolutions also tend to be inflexible. We don't adjust them based on circumstances or on how well we are or are not doing in reaching them. Goals are easily adjusted. It's a fine line, but a very definite line in my view. Thus goals, not resolutions, for me.
Goals have worked fairly well for my writing. I don't always make them (this past year was dismal, but then I also ended up with a lot of health problems that interfered with my ability to even function much less write), but they do keep me motivated. Since they have worked well for me, and I do have other things I want to reach for this upcoming year, expanding them beyond my writing seems like a logical way to aim for the other things I want in my life. I've been thinking about them for about a week or so now, carefully considering what is reachable and what steps I can take to actually make them. Now I just need to figure out how to make them a part of my daily awareness like my writing is. With my writing, it's easy. The goals are more...conducive to breaking down into weekly goals that I can check off as I reach them. Some of these non-writing goals can be taken care of the same way, others not so much. At this point, I'm thinking of using a post-it note and just moving it in my planner each week. My planner is an important part of my day. I write down my weekly goals, my plans for each day, and cross things off as I finish. It helps keep me on track.
( So the goals for next year (cut for length) )
It looks like a lot (especially with those explanations in the middle!), but I think I can reach these. I'll reevaluate in June, maybe earlier if the threatened job loss happens (at that point, those goals will have to be let go and survival will be the priority; but let's hope the job loss doesn't happen). I'm really hoping for a better year, especially healthwise. If anything will derail me, that would be it. But, barring that, I think these will do for 2009.
~~~
most recent
whysper goals 2009 :: journey I Need To Write :: booklog The Assassin Journals: Hunter
I thought about noting my goal progress for this year at the top of this post as well, but finally decided against it. I pretty much failed most of them: 288k instead of 350 (which was adjusted down from 450), A. C. is still being revised, almost made my Phoenix goal but not quite, I did get a pro sale but in nonfic instead of my preferred genre (not knocking it, but, um, yea), as for the shorts...well, let's not go there. I am not upset with myself over this, however. It was a bad year and I was pretty much derailed almost from the beginning when I was sick for 6 months and ended up having surgery. Sometimes things just don't work out the way we plan. The idea is to do better next year, yes?
So, here's the official goal post for 2009. You'll note it's getting its own tag. I know this will make my tag list totally deranged in the future, but I like tracking per year. Anyway, on to the post.
I don't do resolutions, and I believe this is my first year of making goals other than those that are for writing, but there are some things I want to take care of next year, and goals seem the best way to approach it. To me, a resolution is a promise. You're not saying, "I'm going to aim for this", you're saying, "I will do this." A promise is not something I make lightly, and I try to make promises I know I can keep because I'm giving my word and my word is important to me. It needs to be trustworthy. Resolutions also tend to be inflexible. We don't adjust them based on circumstances or on how well we are or are not doing in reaching them. Goals are easily adjusted. It's a fine line, but a very definite line in my view. Thus goals, not resolutions, for me.
Goals have worked fairly well for my writing. I don't always make them (this past year was dismal, but then I also ended up with a lot of health problems that interfered with my ability to even function much less write), but they do keep me motivated. Since they have worked well for me, and I do have other things I want to reach for this upcoming year, expanding them beyond my writing seems like a logical way to aim for the other things I want in my life. I've been thinking about them for about a week or so now, carefully considering what is reachable and what steps I can take to actually make them. Now I just need to figure out how to make them a part of my daily awareness like my writing is. With my writing, it's easy. The goals are more...conducive to breaking down into weekly goals that I can check off as I reach them. Some of these non-writing goals can be taken care of the same way, others not so much. At this point, I'm thinking of using a post-it note and just moving it in my planner each week. My planner is an important part of my day. I write down my weekly goals, my plans for each day, and cross things off as I finish. It helps keep me on track.
( So the goals for next year (cut for length) )
It looks like a lot (especially with those explanations in the middle!), but I think I can reach these. I'll reevaluate in June, maybe earlier if the threatened job loss happens (at that point, those goals will have to be let go and survival will be the priority; but let's hope the job loss doesn't happen). I'm really hoping for a better year, especially healthwise. If anything will derail me, that would be it. But, barring that, I think these will do for 2009.
~~~
most recent
whysper goals 2009 :: journey I Need To Write :: booklog The Assassin Journals: Hunter
- mood:
pleased - music:None
Okay, so going out with the entire family while fighting a migraine was a bad idea (I seem just FULL of them lately) even though it was the only day the entire family could go out together. Next time, I send them all on their merry way and just enjoy the silence...and be grateful I won't be feeling sick from the evening 4 hours later.
*sigh*
So, tomorrow pretty much begins my new year for me. For the most part, I'll be working on LP stuff Monday and Tuesday. Wednesday is my anniversary, so I won't be doing much of anything, not even writing. So my writing stuff? Pretty much done for the year. Tomorrow I'll be sure to post my totals and my new goals. Still thinking about them a little, but I'm pretty sure I have what I want for now. At least nothing new has come up in the last day or two.
Tonight I finalize all that and set up my goals for the week, as well as determine my final counts for the year. I might squeak something in under the wire, but not much holding my breath on that. I also want to figure out what other things I accomplished, because I realized today that I had something unexpectedly almost complete. I think it's important to note those accomplishments as well.
Okay, back to bed with my queasy tummy and my planner. Tomorrow is a new day and, for me, the beginning of a new year even if the date doesn't say so. ;)
~~~
most recent
whysper that was annoying :: journey I Need To Write :: booklog The Assassin Journals: Hunter
*sigh*
So, tomorrow pretty much begins my new year for me. For the most part, I'll be working on LP stuff Monday and Tuesday. Wednesday is my anniversary, so I won't be doing much of anything, not even writing. So my writing stuff? Pretty much done for the year. Tomorrow I'll be sure to post my totals and my new goals. Still thinking about them a little, but I'm pretty sure I have what I want for now. At least nothing new has come up in the last day or two.
Tonight I finalize all that and set up my goals for the week, as well as determine my final counts for the year. I might squeak something in under the wire, but not much holding my breath on that. I also want to figure out what other things I accomplished, because I realized today that I had something unexpectedly almost complete. I think it's important to note those accomplishments as well.
Okay, back to bed with my queasy tummy and my planner. Tomorrow is a new day and, for me, the beginning of a new year even if the date doesn't say so. ;)
~~~
most recent
whysper that was annoying :: journey I Need To Write :: booklog The Assassin Journals: Hunter
- mood:
content even if queasy - music:Music Choice Lite Hits
Phoenix Rising building draft
starting count: 42,695
ending count: 43,286
gain/loss: +591
Actual (processed) word count: 1077
Total New Words (Day/Week): 1077 / 1077
Total for the Day: 1077
Total for the Week: 1077
starting line:
"A betrayal I hope never happens." Bryanae paused a moment. "Surely there are places you would like to see?"
ending line:
She turned towards Elahi. "Your house has been in Kree many generations, perhaps since the Founding itself, and has never shown any disloyalty. When our people were in need, your House has answered, aiding those in need when there was famine or illness. You have shown that your mother is wise in how she has raised you and prepared you for becoming the head of your House, and I do not believe you would remain her heir if you did not show promise. That you are young and inexperienced will work on your favor -- it is far easier to teach someone younger new ways than it is to teach someone older. And there will be much to learn as a councilor of Kree."
darling:
A moment of uncomfortable silence stretched between them, finally broken by Bryanae. "I'm sure you know that I did not ask for you to discuss your family's business."
Woot! Got in my planned 1k for the week -- it's rough, but I'm happy with it -- and am ready to do more. However, I'm going to work on much needed world building stuff, probably for A.C.. Since I need to start making sure things are consistent, I might also try to work up a style sheet for A.C. on my own to check for errors in the mss so I know what needs fixing next round. It should also help direct in me what needs to looking over in my world building since some of that may need to be rechecked so everything falls in line like it should. I had someone else lined up to do it, but she's never worked with this kind of style sheet, and I wouldn't be so cruel as to inflict a novel like A.C. on someone who has never worked with a style sheet before. I've been nickel and diming chapter 30 to death, and probably will continue to do so for another week or so.
I also need to work on today's whysper, which I think will be on my goals for next year (will be cross-posting here), I just want to make sure I've pretty much finalized what I want to aim for next year. I had most everything down last night, but ended up adding another today, so I'll hold off until I'm sure I have everything I want and I think it's all do-able.
In the meantime, world building and manuscript checking calls. I'm sitting in chat with a few other DIIers if any other DIIers are interested. ;)
~~~
most recent
whysper mad, mad thing / ready :: journey I Need To Write :: booklog The Assassin Journals: Hunter
starting count: 42,695
ending count: 43,286
gain/loss: +591
Actual (processed) word count: 1077
Total New Words (Day/Week): 1077 / 1077
Total for the Day: 1077
Total for the Week: 1077
starting line:
"A betrayal I hope never happens." Bryanae paused a moment. "Surely there are places you would like to see?"
ending line:
She turned towards Elahi. "Your house has been in Kree many generations, perhaps since the Founding itself, and has never shown any disloyalty. When our people were in need, your House has answered, aiding those in need when there was famine or illness. You have shown that your mother is wise in how she has raised you and prepared you for becoming the head of your House, and I do not believe you would remain her heir if you did not show promise. That you are young and inexperienced will work on your favor -- it is far easier to teach someone younger new ways than it is to teach someone older. And there will be much to learn as a councilor of Kree."
darling:
A moment of uncomfortable silence stretched between them, finally broken by Bryanae. "I'm sure you know that I did not ask for you to discuss your family's business."
Woot! Got in my planned 1k for the week -- it's rough, but I'm happy with it -- and am ready to do more. However, I'm going to work on much needed world building stuff, probably for A.C.. Since I need to start making sure things are consistent, I might also try to work up a style sheet for A.C. on my own to check for errors in the mss so I know what needs fixing next round. It should also help direct in me what needs to looking over in my world building since some of that may need to be rechecked so everything falls in line like it should. I had someone else lined up to do it, but she's never worked with this kind of style sheet, and I wouldn't be so cruel as to inflict a novel like A.C. on someone who has never worked with a style sheet before. I've been nickel and diming chapter 30 to death, and probably will continue to do so for another week or so.
I also need to work on today's whysper, which I think will be on my goals for next year (will be cross-posting here), I just want to make sure I've pretty much finalized what I want to aim for next year. I had most everything down last night, but ended up adding another today, so I'll hold off until I'm sure I have everything I want and I think it's all do-able.
In the meantime, world building and manuscript checking calls. I'm sitting in chat with a few other DIIers if any other DIIers are interested. ;)
~~~
most recent
whysper mad, mad thing / ready :: journey I Need To Write :: booklog The Assassin Journals: Hunter
- mood:
pleased - music:None
A few things to be thankful for today...
The man got his half day today like he wanted. He only had two pickups...and one canceled. He picked up his check, some bills will be paid by the end of the day, and he's off picking up gift cards for the kids. Yea, kinda lame for the presents, but affordable. Tonight, OUR child support will be in (oldest is STILL waiting for hers) and a couple other things will be paid. Rent will be paid in full as soon as the landlord (who is such a nice man to work with us on this stuff) gets here. P.W> is off my desk and back in the author's hands as hoped, and a second novel is almost ready for formatting, so we'll have at least 2 books for the February release.
Like I said, quite a bit to be happy about.
In other news, one of our regular submitters who keeps getting rejected for guidelines stuff, is back. This has to be his third or fourth novel. Here's hoping he's finally getting a clue about the guidelines. *sighs*
Plans today: read the one mss that's been in panel queue and cookies. Might try to get some writing done too, we'll see. And I might try to hunt down a fudge recipe. Another we'll see. But that's pretty much it. With the man home for the day and things like the laundry done yesterday, I don't have any running around to do, thank God, so I can just do whatever I want today and take it easy before the holiday.
Which is something else to be happy about.
~~~
most recent
whysper quiet day...not! :: journey I Need To Write :: booklog The Assassin Journals: Hunter
The man got his half day today like he wanted. He only had two pickups...and one canceled. He picked up his check, some bills will be paid by the end of the day, and he's off picking up gift cards for the kids. Yea, kinda lame for the presents, but affordable. Tonight, OUR child support will be in (oldest is STILL waiting for hers) and a couple other things will be paid. Rent will be paid in full as soon as the landlord (who is such a nice man to work with us on this stuff) gets here. P.W> is off my desk and back in the author's hands as hoped, and a second novel is almost ready for formatting, so we'll have at least 2 books for the February release.
Like I said, quite a bit to be happy about.
In other news, one of our regular submitters who keeps getting rejected for guidelines stuff, is back. This has to be his third or fourth novel. Here's hoping he's finally getting a clue about the guidelines. *sighs*
Plans today: read the one mss that's been in panel queue and cookies. Might try to get some writing done too, we'll see. And I might try to hunt down a fudge recipe. Another we'll see. But that's pretty much it. With the man home for the day and things like the laundry done yesterday, I don't have any running around to do, thank God, so I can just do whatever I want today and take it easy before the holiday.
Which is something else to be happy about.
~~~
most recent
whysper quiet day...not! :: journey I Need To Write :: booklog The Assassin Journals: Hunter
- mood:
content - music:None (yet)
Did okay on the goals last week, not spectacular, but okay. This week will be a very light week because of the holidays. We have the kids dad arriving Christmas eve, I believe, and, of course, Christmas day is crazy time as we put together dinner and have all the kids home plus a fiance. Friday will be pretty much spent on clean up and recovery. Clean up will involve dishes, pretty much, since we have maybe 4 gifts under the tree, sent by grandma for the kids. Add to all this that the kids are home for two weeks and the dad will be here until the 30th. With all the last minute baking, kids home, holiday celebration, and so on, I don't see getting a lot done.
But I do have plans for the week:
Work:
»P.W. edits
» reading
» slush
Writing/Personal
» 1000 new words
» A.C. 30.4
» journals: whysper, journeys
» 2009 DII crests
I'm really hoping to getP.W. off my desk so I don't have to worry about it for the rest of the week. Plus, I'm already behind and we're aiming for the February release date for it. I'm a little over 3/4th the way through, so hopefully I can get it done over the next couple of days. It's on today's list to do, along with that batch of sour cream drops I've been needing to get to.
Better get to it.
~~~
most recent
whysper amused / kittays! :: journey I Need To Write :: booklog The Assassin Journals: Hunter
But I do have plans for the week:
Work:
»
» reading
» slush
Writing/Personal
» 1000 new words
» A.C. 30.4
» journals: whysper, journeys
» 2009 DII crests
I'm really hoping to get
Better get to it.
~~~
most recent
whysper amused / kittays! :: journey I Need To Write :: booklog The Assassin Journals: Hunter
- mood:
content - music:None
I actually was going to post about this earlier, but I just never made it back to the comp until now. Bad me for not being here at 11 like I told some people in chat. My apologies.
But...
I GOT WORDS!
Yesterday I managed a whole 753 words on Phoenix. Like I said, I was supposed to come back after dinner, attempt a few more, and post about it, but considering they are the only words at all in 2 weeks and the only NEW words in 3, I'll take it and just be happy with that.
However, the time not coming back was not wasted. Spent some time with the man sans kids and tinkered some more with chapter 30 -- which seems to be going well so far, if a bit slowly.
So, there's my happiness for the day so far. Now, dishes and setting up some goals for the rest of this week. I think we'll try not to go for as much as usual. Between kids being home, company coming, and the Christmas stuff, even attempting my usual amount of impossible would be more frustrating than helpful. Goals are good. Goals that require a bit of a stretch are good. Goals that are totally out of reach? Not so good. ;)
~~~
most recent
whysper amused / kittays! :: journey I Need To Write :: booklog The Assassin Journals: Hunter
But...
I GOT WORDS!
Yesterday I managed a whole 753 words on Phoenix. Like I said, I was supposed to come back after dinner, attempt a few more, and post about it, but considering they are the only words at all in 2 weeks and the only NEW words in 3, I'll take it and just be happy with that.
However, the time not coming back was not wasted. Spent some time with the man sans kids and tinkered some more with chapter 30 -- which seems to be going well so far, if a bit slowly.
So, there's my happiness for the day so far. Now, dishes and setting up some goals for the rest of this week. I think we'll try not to go for as much as usual. Between kids being home, company coming, and the Christmas stuff, even attempting my usual amount of impossible would be more frustrating than helpful. Goals are good. Goals that require a bit of a stretch are good. Goals that are totally out of reach? Not so good. ;)
~~~
most recent
whysper amused / kittays! :: journey I Need To Write :: booklog The Assassin Journals: Hunter
- mood:
content - music:None
I've already approved what's been going on with Urth and let the editor know she's doing well enough to not have to send any more rounds to me for a check. Actually got that done pretty early.
So for the rest of the day, I'll be working on PW edits, maybe with some reading breaks here and there, and definitely a cookie making break. Have a new cookie we're going to be keeping as a holiday cookie, but I want to tinker with it a little. We'll see how that goes.
Grandbaby isn't here today—she and mom are with one of mom's friends until somewhere between 2 and 4, so it's pretty quiet. I've been up an hour or so and managed another 5 or so pages in PW. Not having the interruptions is nice no matter how much you love your kids and grandkids. ;) I'm sure mom, baby, and friend will be here somewhat on the early side though. They have a bed for the baby to put together. ;)
Okay, had a REALLY early breakfast, so getting lunch together and eating and reading a bit before I start back in on PW.
~~~
most recent
whysper tinkering :: journey I Need To Write :: booklog The Assassin Journals: Hunter
So for the rest of the day, I'll be working on PW edits, maybe with some reading breaks here and there, and definitely a cookie making break. Have a new cookie we're going to be keeping as a holiday cookie, but I want to tinker with it a little. We'll see how that goes.
Grandbaby isn't here today—she and mom are with one of mom's friends until somewhere between 2 and 4, so it's pretty quiet. I've been up an hour or so and managed another 5 or so pages in PW. Not having the interruptions is nice no matter how much you love your kids and grandkids. ;) I'm sure mom, baby, and friend will be here somewhat on the early side though. They have a bed for the baby to put together. ;)
Okay, had a REALLY early breakfast, so getting lunch together and eating and reading a bit before I start back in on PW.
~~~
most recent
whysper tinkering :: journey I Need To Write :: booklog The Assassin Journals: Hunter
- mood:
content - music:Music Choice Retro-Active
... brushing her with a chill caress as they passed her to surround the altar.
Assassin's Choice ch. 29 v5
I finished everything for today on my list and am now working ondishes and, shortly, bentos. I'm pretty pleased with myself, actually, even though the week itself has been something different entirely on the accomplishments meter. In fact, it's looking like I won't meet any of my goals this year (considering I'm currently in need of 85k in words and 8 chapter revisions and only have 3 weeks of the year left -- even on good weeks I could never accomplish that much), but I am going to try to get as close as I can and then try again next year. One of these days, I'll get it right, get it all done, and do it consistently.
Gotta keep hoping next year is better all around. It's all I've got at the moment.
Anyway, progress....
2008 Goal Progress
» 350,000 words :: 265,879 (75.97%)
» Finish A.C. v5 :: 8 chapters left
» read 1 book a month :: read: 9 (18 w/books editing & DII crits; plus the slush pile)
Progress This Week
Word Count:
for the week: 3449
for the month: 3449
last month: 13,057
this year: 265,879
last year: 439,573
No goals over the last few weeks -- have had a lot of other things going on that seem to have made even thinking about goals near impossible. But I'm getting back to them this week because they help keep me focused...and I have a hell of a lot to get done this week....
Goals This Week
Work:
»Urth mss check
» PW edits
» reading panel (3)
» slush
Writing/Personal
» 1500 new words
» A.C. 30.4, 30.5
» 2 DII crits
» sekret project stuff
» journals: whysper x7
» journals: journeys
» new Meta
» exercise
» daily reading
» baking
» 2009 whysper layout
» 2009 DII crests
Quite a few extras there -- most of which I'm looking at taking the entire 3 weeks to complete rather than getting them all done this week. Work is the big one; there's a lot to get done even though it doesn't look like much: 1 mss to finish round 1 edits, 1 mss to check edits, and 3 to read and give an opinion on. The slush is listed, but it may have to wait until I get caught up here.
I'm just glad this week doesn't have a holiday in the middle and there's no pressure to get everything done RIGHT THIS MINUTE. The past 2 weeks have been full of both of those, and they definitely derailed me in a number of ways.
Here's to being back on track.
~~~
most recent
whysper tinkering :: journey I Need To Write :: booklog The Assassin Journals: Hunter
Assassin's Choice ch. 29 v5
I finished everything for today on my list and am now working on
Gotta keep hoping next year is better all around. It's all I've got at the moment.
Anyway, progress....
2008 Goal Progress
» 350,000 words :: 265,879 (75.97%)
» Finish A.C. v5 :: 8 chapters left
» read 1 book a month :: read: 9 (18 w/books editing & DII crits; plus the slush pile)
Progress This Week
Word Count:
for the week: 3449
for the month: 3449
last month: 13,057
this year: 265,879
last year: 439,573
No goals over the last few weeks -- have had a lot of other things going on that seem to have made even thinking about goals near impossible. But I'm getting back to them this week because they help keep me focused...and I have a hell of a lot to get done this week....
Goals This Week
Work:
»
» PW edits
» reading panel (3)
» slush
Writing/Personal
» 1500 new words
» A.C. 30.4, 30.5
» 2 DII crits
» sekret project stuff
» journals: whysper x7
» journals: journeys
» new Meta
» exercise
» daily reading
» baking
» 2009 whysper layout
» 2009 DII crests
Quite a few extras there -- most of which I'm looking at taking the entire 3 weeks to complete rather than getting them all done this week. Work is the big one; there's a lot to get done even though it doesn't look like much: 1 mss to finish round 1 edits, 1 mss to check edits, and 3 to read and give an opinion on. The slush is listed, but it may have to wait until I get caught up here.
I'm just glad this week doesn't have a holiday in the middle and there's no pressure to get everything done RIGHT THIS MINUTE. The past 2 weeks have been full of both of those, and they definitely derailed me in a number of ways.
Here's to being back on track.
~~~
most recent
whysper tinkering :: journey I Need To Write :: booklog The Assassin Journals: Hunter
- mood:
content - music:I-Shuffle Christmas Mix
Yes, I actually have goals for the day. Better, I actually have plans already set down for next week, but we'll get to those tomorrow. Today I'm actually going to work generally on my own stuff. Sort of. At the very least, I'll be doing those things that help me get focused and ready to do my own stuff (using old habits to get back into the swing of things, so to speak), but I do have a chapter on my list (I actually started tinkering with it last night). Here's the list....
»1 DII crit
»whysper entry (Holidailies!)
»A.C. 29.5
»eggnog cookies (if oldest brings me the new pans I need)
Yea, it's tiny, but this is my list for TODAY, not for the week. It's also a list I think is actually doable. I've dropped my crit commitment to 3 for the month (will go back to 8 in January), so 1 crit is all I need this weekend. I can do the other 2 next weekend when things are a little less crazy than this weekend has been.
I suspect the feelings of floundering the last few weeks are partly because of not having any stated goals, so I'm trying to get back into posting those. They really do give me direction in plowing through the pile of stuff I usually have waiting for me to get to. Direction is a good thing when you're ADHD.
Anyway, have a few things to take care of at DII before I get started, so I'm off to get that done then I'm going to work on my crit.
ETA: Must. Stop. Playing. With. My. F-list!
~~~
most recent
whysper weekend crazy :: journey I Need To Write :: booklog The Assassin Journals: Hunter
»
»
»
»
Yea, it's tiny, but this is my list for TODAY, not for the week. It's also a list I think is actually doable. I've dropped my crit commitment to 3 for the month (will go back to 8 in January), so 1 crit is all I need this weekend. I can do the other 2 next weekend when things are a little less crazy than this weekend has been.
I suspect the feelings of floundering the last few weeks are partly because of not having any stated goals, so I'm trying to get back into posting those. They really do give me direction in plowing through the pile of stuff I usually have waiting for me to get to. Direction is a good thing when you're ADHD.
Anyway, have a few things to take care of at DII before I get started, so I'm off to get that done then I'm going to work on my crit.
ETA: Must. Stop. Playing. With. My. F-list!
~~~
most recent
whysper weekend crazy :: journey I Need To Write :: booklog The Assassin Journals: Hunter
- mood:
focused - music:I-Shuffle Christmas Mix
» PW edits :: making slow progres
» reading slush
»posting last month's stats
» read/check the Snow galley
»some DII admin stuffs
The Snow galley is turned in just in time, the PW edits progress about as expected. The only thing that hasn't been looked at much is the reading panel stuff, and that ALWAYS waits when we're down to the wire on a release. I'll be getting back to that next week probably. Maybe tomorrow, but I'd like to get further on PW first.
All that and the first Simple Peanut Butter Cookies of the holidays are about to come out of the oven.
In about an hour, I start dinner. Whew!
~~~
most recent
whysper preparing thanks :: journey I Need To Write :: booklog The Assassin Journals: Hunter
» reading slush
»
» r
»
The Snow galley is turned in just in time, the PW edits progress about as expected. The only thing that hasn't been looked at much is the reading panel stuff, and that ALWAYS waits when we're down to the wire on a release. I'll be getting back to that next week probably. Maybe tomorrow, but I'd like to get further on PW first.
All that and the first Simple Peanut Butter Cookies of the holidays are about to come out of the oven.
In about an hour, I start dinner. Whew!
~~~
most recent
whysper preparing thanks :: journey I Need To Write :: booklog The Assassin Journals: Hunter
- mood:
content - music:None
