How Do You Eat An Elephant?

There are days like today that this story I'm working on seems impossible.  There are so many characters, plot lines, histories, maps, vocabulary words, and kingdoms that on days like this- it would be easy to give up.

Except I can't. 

Not anymore.  I think at one time I might have been able to stop writing this story, but not now.  I'm in too deep.  I know I will continue with the story until it is finished.  I have no idea what the final story will be or what will happen with my book (or books) when I am done.  I know I have tons of editing to do find an agent and an editor and all those others things, and that will come in time. 

For now, I have to create and get things down on the page.  I am one that likes to look ahead and charge into the fray!  But there are days like this when I need to stop and look back at where I've been and let that be inspiration to keep on going.

Characters:  I started with three main character sketches and have many times that amount now.  Each of them have their own personalities, names, and faces.  I can talk about each one and and move them around my world.  My top 10 I know very well.

Kingdoms:  I had one kingdom and now have five.  I have named each one and they each have a space on my map.  I know what products they produce, who the ruler is, how they run their kingdom, and other political things.  I also know how the landscape looks for each kingdom. 

Vocabulary words:  I started with one word for the bond between animals and people.   That word has now grown into a vocab. list of 24 words....17 which are defined and the rest are waiting for just the right definition. 

Maps:  I have various maps of the kingdoms and of some of the castles (compounds).  Many of the places are named.

Animals:  Horses, dragons, ravens, and other creatures have made their appearance.  Many have been named and have their own personalities. 

Play List-  I have a very huge playlist on my ipod.  I cannot begin to number the songs that I have used to help me write.  I know it must be well over 300. 

Experiences:  I have gone into the ring at the Frazier Arms Museum with a two handed sword, hung out with people at the Scottish Festival, Talked to a Blacksmith at the Resissance Festival, saw RED three times, and talked to former marine and army soldiers about their battle experiences. 

Encouragement:  I have gotten so many words of encouragement from so many people!  Most don't know much about what I'm writing, but they say nice things; which helps on days like this.  I had one dear friend who sent me my plaque that reads; "Careful...or you'll end up in my novel."  Others have passed on quotes or pictures or something.  Writing does not happen in a vacuum! 

So how do you eat an elephant?           One bite at a time. 

So- today as I look back and am reminded of why I'm doing this....I'll end with this quote.

"Find out the reason that commands you to write; see whether is has spread its roots into the very depth of your heart; confess to yourself you would have to die if you were forbidden to write."  ~Rainer Mari Rilkie