Work-in-progress

“The road to hell is paved with works-in-progress.”
—Philip Roth


I have several "almost" completed first drafts but haven't found the courage to finish one. My latest is soooo close to being complete, I lack maybe three chapters. But I start second guessing myself, panic and hunt down a box of chocolates and in the sugar haze decide that my writing isn't good enough, box it up (cause you know you can NEVER really get rid of the story). I've had sections of my works-in-progress reviewed by professions and both times have been told to finish the book, but I still don't have the courage. This year is the year I finish my book and send it off, warts and all.

I've set a weekly page goal of 10 pages and if I don't meet it, then it carries over adding to the next week. This is not an aggressive goal, as I can easily write 5 to 10 pages in a single setting. I'm hoping the goal will keep me on track. I love writing and hate it. It is one of my biggest pleasures when my fingers can't keep up with the story... and yet there are times when writing is more painful than visits to the dentist. 

Currently I am plotting and planning my story so I don't have any pages for the year... by my count, I owe myself 70 pages. I have to finish planning so or I'll have to take off time from work to get caught up!