tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-64707081832546468662024-03-12T21:12:48.125-06:00Abby AnnisAbby Annishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05543937393055900844noreply@blogger.comBlogger342125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6470708183254646866.post-26871136226226226082016-04-05T06:00:00.000-06:002016-04-05T06:00:31.573-06:002016 Words Per Day Tracking Spreadsheets<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0ahQTDRb9QE/VwLcDNJlgOI/AAAAAAAAB5k/0WojiHqU4McZocYhfLeGEywOrLw8-8tzA/s1600/Stats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="325" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0ahQTDRb9QE/VwLcDNJlgOI/AAAAAAAAB5k/0WojiHqU4McZocYhfLeGEywOrLw8-8tzA/s400/Stats.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I realize it's April, so many of you are probably well past the point of needing a tracking spreadsheet for your word count. And really, I hadn't planned on updating the spreadsheets for 2016. Between work and teenagers, time is not my friend these days. Then I got an email from Hugh Pile* with a request to update them, and he might have said something about them being the "best wordcount-tracking spreadsheets on the Web." So, of course, I dropped everything and updated them right away. Well, I wanted to, anyway.<br />
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The past couple of months have been insane with the implementation of a new electronic timekeeping system at work (we've finally entered the 21st century!), which I'm super excited about, but Hugh had to wait over a month for me to get the spreadsheets updated. Thanks for being so patient, Hugh. :)<br />
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Download links are below if you would like to use them. I've created three different versions--daily, monthly, and annual. Use one or all. Whatever works for you. Let me know if you have problems with any them. Also, FYI, I've protected the pages and the workbook to protect the formulas and formatting, and the hours and hours of work I've put into them. If the protections affect the functionality, please let me know.<br />
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Happy writing, everyone! :)<br />
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B2CS_QBInd2tdGJHSnE5ZnVsZG8/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Words Per Day - Annual Goal</a><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B2CS_QBInd2tQTM1QkdHRi1xdUE/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Words Per Day - Monthly Goal</a><br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B2CS_QBInd2tdkE5cWthY1ltUU0/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Words Per Day - Daily Goal</a><br />
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*Hugh, if you're reading this and would like me to link to a blog or website, please send me your info or leave it in the comments and I'll update this post.<br />
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<br />Abby Annishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05543937393055900844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6470708183254646866.post-4679776957641546802015-10-29T21:16:00.000-06:002015-10-29T21:18:14.005-06:00NaNo Tracker 2015I'm not participating in NaNo this year, but I've updated my NaNo Tracker for 2015. If you're interested it using to track your NaNo progress, just <a href="http://bit.ly/1NE7VLs" target="_blank">click here</a> to download the Excel 2007 and newer version. :)<br />
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Original NaNo Tracker (with more pictures) <a href="http://abbyannis.blogspot.com/2013/10/nano-tracker-spreadsheet.html">here</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AOXE94_HCdU/VjLdew4MCnI/AAAAAAAAB5M/igQYp7dkAQI/s1600/NaNo%2BTracker%2B2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AOXE94_HCdU/VjLdew4MCnI/AAAAAAAAB5M/igQYp7dkAQI/s400/NaNo%2BTracker%2B2015.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Happy writing!<br />
<div class="tweetable">
Want a spreadsheet to track your NaNoWriMo goals? Download one here from @abbyannis</div>
Abby Annishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05543937393055900844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6470708183254646866.post-73237372605660910232015-01-15T07:00:00.000-07:002015-01-15T12:37:06.687-07:002015 Writing Goal Tracking SpreadsheetSorry for the delay, but I think I'm finally done. For this year's spreadsheet, I modified my NaNo Tracker spreadsheet into a year-long version. With this version, you just have to enter your total word count at the end of each day and the spreadsheet calculates everything for you--total words written each day, total for the month and year, remaining words to meet your goal for that month, etc.*<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-REht6eM0qxg/VLMHgad7vbI/AAAAAAAAB2w/0xyWj7aFt8E/s1600/2015%2BWPD%2BJan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-REht6eM0qxg/VLMHgad7vbI/AAAAAAAAB2w/0xyWj7aFt8E/s1600/2015%2BWPD%2BJan.jpg" height="275" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enter total word count in the green column and the spreadsheet does all the work for you.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In addition to a sheet for each month, the workbook includes a setup page with the options to enter a later start date and a starting word count. I've also included a stats page so you can keep track of how you're doing for the year.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2UP3MJLf5-4/VLMJFMXpLGI/AAAAAAAAB28/JsDWvkRPPT4/s1600/2015%2BWPD%2BStats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2UP3MJLf5-4/VLMJFMXpLGI/AAAAAAAAB28/JsDWvkRPPT4/s1600/2015%2BWPD%2BStats.jpg" height="317" width="400" /></a></div>
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I've created three separate workbooks to allow you to set a daily, monthly, or annual goal based on what meets your individual needs. Click below to download.<br />
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<a href="http://bit.ly/1C8P6JK" target="_blank">Annual Goal</a><br />
<a href="http://bit.ly/1C8PiZr" target="_blank">Monthly Goal</a><br />
<a href="http://bit.ly/1u01O8S" target="_blank">Daily Goal</a><br />
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Please note, the spreadsheets are locked. You will only be able to modify the green cells. These are the cells that drive all the formulas. To protect my work, I will not be giving out the password. If you have issues downloading or getting it to work, please let me know either in the comments or by <a href="mailto:abbyannisblog@earthlink.net" target="_blank">email</a>, and I'll send you the file(s) directly.<br />
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I think I've worked out all the bugs*, but it's possible I missed something. If you find that something doesn't work like it should or if you have any questions, please let me know. Happy writing! :)<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">*Spreadsheets were created with Microsoft Excel 2013. They may lose some functionality with earlier versions of Excel.</span>Abby Annishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05543937393055900844noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6470708183254646866.post-8119553112515151602015-01-04T20:58:00.003-07:002015-01-04T20:58:45.028-07:002015 Writing Goal Tracking Spreadsheet Coming Soon!Things have been crazy with moving (I got a new house! Yay!) and then the holidays and work, so I haven't had any time to work on anything extra. But I am planning on putting together a tracking spreadsheet for 2015, <a href="http://abbyannis.blogspot.com/2014/01/words-per-day-2014-spreadsheets.html">kind of like the one I did for 2014</a>, only better. I'm hoping to have it done by the end of this week. Be sure to check back!<br />
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Happy 2015, everyone! :)Abby Annishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05543937393055900844noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6470708183254646866.post-85732333896447760132014-10-30T18:00:00.000-06:002014-11-01T02:32:59.546-06:00NaNo Tracker 2014I'm not able to participate in NaNo this year because we're buying a new house! There's just too much to pack and clean before its completion on December 1st. So overwhelming but so exciting. :)<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P9-opMeY4lc/VFKnJpyBXjI/AAAAAAAAB2Y/u6dnBYiFg14/s1600/NaNo2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P9-opMeY4lc/VFKnJpyBXjI/AAAAAAAAB2Y/u6dnBYiFg14/s1600/NaNo2014.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Even though I'm not participating, I've adjusted my NaNo Tracker from last year to work for this year. If you're interested in using it to help track your NaNo progress, just <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B2CS_QBInd2tcU5UM0RHT1o0Mk0/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">click here</a> to download the Excel 2007 and newer version.<br />
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If you would like the 97-2003 version, shoot me an email by clicking the button on the left or leave your email address in the comments and I'll send it to you. Just so you know, I got about a million compatibility warnings when I saved that version, so no guarantees it will work properly.<br />
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If you have issues getting the spreadsheet to work, please take a look at <a href="http://abbyannis.blogspot.com/2013/10/nano-tracker-spreadsheet.html">last year's post</a> for more info or leave your questions in the comments.<br />
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Happy NaNoing, everyone! I hope you all reach your goals. :)<br />
<div class="tweetable">
Want a spreadsheet to track your NaNoWriMo goals? Download one here from @abbyannis</div>
Abby Annishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05543937393055900844noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6470708183254646866.post-38464972857441947312014-03-10T05:00:00.000-06:002014-03-10T05:00:00.963-06:00Changes Are Happening at Operation Awesome<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qumklgevrlk/Ux0ZErA0ZeI/AAAAAAAAByU/V3RAQDjeMYM/s1600/Oliver.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qumklgevrlk/Ux0ZErA0ZeI/AAAAAAAAByU/V3RAQDjeMYM/s1600/Oliver.jpg" height="200" width="189" /></a></div>
Do you want to be part of the <a href="http://operationawesome6.blogspot.com/"><b>Operation Awesome</b></a> team? We're looking for a new member. Go <a href="http://operationawesome6.blogspot.com/2014/03/we-want-you-to-join-operation-awesome.html"><b>here</b></a> for more details and info on how to apply.<br />
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Also, we're revamping the Mystery Agent contest and we'd love to get your input. Go <b><a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/VR3GSQ9">here</a></b> to take a short survey. You can also find the survey in the sidebar of the <a href="http://operationawesome6.blogspot.com/"><b>Operation Awesome blog</b></a>.<br />
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Have a great week! :)Abby Annishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05543937393055900844noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6470708183254646866.post-91394910631155806552014-01-06T06:00:00.000-07:002015-01-16T09:00:43.828-07:00Words Per Day 2014 Spreadsheets<a href="http://abbyannis.blogspot.fr/2015/01/2015-writing-goal-tracking-spreadsheet_15.html">2015 Spreadsheet</a><br />
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The Words Per Day 2014 spreadsheets are finally finished! :)<br />
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I incorporated some of the features from the <a href="http://abbyannis.blogspot.com/2013/10/nano-tracker-spreadsheet.html">NaNo Tracker</a> and added a few new features to make them easier to set up and use.<br />
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All the setup is done in one sheet. I created three versions so you can set one annual goal, monthly goals, or set a daily goal for each month. Whatever works best for you. :) All versions can be used on either an every day, Monday through Friday, or weekends only schedule. Just enter an X in the box next to the schedule you prefer and clear the other boxes.<br />
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Click images to enlarge.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Annual Goal:</b></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8p90Fw86sWY/UsnHleslniI/AAAAAAAABxE/olLUulz4ZZM/s1600/wpd-setup-annual.gif" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8p90Fw86sWY/UsnHleslniI/AAAAAAAABxE/olLUulz4ZZM/s400/wpd-setup-annual.gif" height="466" width="450" /></a></div>
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<b>Monthly Goal:</b></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xG9Ld37q2Qw/UsnHl0mS8gI/AAAAAAAABxc/l_xOi4S1MaA/s1600/wpd-setup-monthly.gif" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xG9Ld37q2Qw/UsnHl0mS8gI/AAAAAAAABxc/l_xOi4S1MaA/s400/wpd-setup-monthly.gif" height="466" width="450" /></a></div>
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<b><b>Daily Goal:</b></b></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vtpJzS3eBmg/UsnHlRczUVI/AAAAAAAABxY/-USICmticSs/s1600/wpd-setup-daily.gif" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vtpJzS3eBmg/UsnHlRczUVI/AAAAAAAABxY/-USICmticSs/s400/wpd-setup-daily.gif" height="466" width="450" /></a></div>
I've also included a WIP Calculator. The titles can be entered at the top for easy tracking, then enter your daily total word count and it will calculate words written for that day.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wY7vTgM9nWg/UsnHmq2IqBI/AAAAAAAABxs/rgMB6SrVd3M/s1600/wpd-wip-calc.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wY7vTgM9nWg/UsnHmq2IqBI/AAAAAAAABxs/rgMB6SrVd3M/s320/wpd-wip-calc.gif" height="351" width="450" /></a></div>
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On the monthly entry pages, it will pull in/calculate your selected writing schedule, daily goal, weekly goal, and monthly goal. You'll only need to enter your daily words in the green column. It will also highlight the current day.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fNXjy4Qp5-g/UsnHlf7V06I/AAAAAAAABxM/FQuKuXb8J5Q/s1600/wpd-january.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fNXjy4Qp5-g/UsnHlf7V06I/AAAAAAAABxM/FQuKuXb8J5Q/s320/wpd-january.gif" height="411" width="450" /></a></div>
The Stats sheet shows your progress over the year.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cmddn9Vgkgs/UsnHmO2yC2I/AAAAAAAABxo/7T0aLPBXyCw/s1600/wpd-stats.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cmddn9Vgkgs/UsnHmO2yC2I/AAAAAAAABxo/7T0aLPBXyCw/s320/wpd-stats.gif" height="338" width="450" /></a></div>
And all sheets contain links for easy navigation within the workbook. :)<br />
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<b>To download:</b><br />
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<b>1.</b> Click one of the links below.<br />
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<a href="http://bit.ly/1dnCTTv">Annual Goal</a><br />
<a href="http://bit.ly/1iGEDyA">Monthly Goal</a><span id="goog_1273998677"></span><span id="goog_1273998678"></span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/"></a><br />
<a href="http://bit.ly/JVkB4c">Daily Goal</a><br />
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<b>2. </b>After you click on a link, you will get something like this :<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q1yRdZ_pflU/Usm5XWO5BPI/AAAAAAAABvk/YFixoycVD6c/s1600/wpd1.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q1yRdZ_pflU/Usm5XWO5BPI/AAAAAAAABvk/YFixoycVD6c/s1600/wpd1.gif" height="475" width="450" /></a></div>
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Click File and then click Download.<br />
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<b>3. </b> Open the file.<br />
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<strong>Chrome:</strong> Click the button in the bottom left corner of your screen.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VGmB_MoCYrM/Usm9pUmxdaI/AAAAAAAABwI/cYOgxexNESA/s1600/wpd-chrome.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VGmB_MoCYrM/Usm9pUmxdaI/AAAAAAAABwI/cYOgxexNESA/s400/wpd-chrome.gif" height="72" width="400" /></a></div>
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<strong>Internet Explorer: </strong>Click Open on the bar at the bottom of the window.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1Yzq9rU43jg/UsnBcIPvpeI/AAAAAAAABww/QgJHBLb-zgw/s1600/wpd-ie.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1Yzq9rU43jg/UsnBcIPvpeI/AAAAAAAABww/QgJHBLb-zgw/s1600/wpd-ie.gif" /></a></div>
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<strong>Firefox: </strong>Click OK in the window that pops up.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZqqMxvnujmE/Usm_aLH1wFI/AAAAAAAABwk/Y7KH-BWE1xs/s1600/wpd-firefox.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZqqMxvnujmE/Usm_aLH1wFI/AAAAAAAABwk/Y7KH-BWE1xs/s400/wpd-firefox.gif" height="302" width="400" /></a></div>
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Once the file is open, you might need to enable editing. To do this, simply click the yellow <strong>Enable Editing</strong> button at the top of the spreadsheet. If you don't see this button, you don't need to do anything--you should be good to go.<br />
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<b>4. </b>Don't forget to save your file when you're done. :) Also, Google Drive doesn't like 97-2003 format (xls). If you want the 97-2003 format (xls), leave me your email address in the comments or email me by clicking the button under "Email Me" on the left, and I'll send it directly to you. Just FYI, I don't have access to versions of Excel older than 2007, so I'm not sure how making the file 97-2003 compatible will affect the functionality.<br />
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The workbook and worksheet are protected to protect the structure and the formulas. Like the NaNo Tracker, I added a password to these ones because I put so much time into them. I'd like to keep my signature on them. I've been over them and tested them several times, but it's still possible I missed something. If you find any issues with them, please let me know and I'll make corrections.<br />
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If you want to share the files, please do. I just ask that you use the links below and that you give me credit, link back to my blog, and let me know in the comments or on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/abbyannis">@abbyannis</a>. I'd love to check it out. :)<br />
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<b>Annual Goal: </b><a href="http://bit.ly/1dnCTTv">http://bit.ly/1dnCTTv</a><br />
<b>Monthly Goal: </b><a href="http://bit.ly/1iGEDyA">http://bit.ly/1iGEDyA</a><br />
<b>Daily Goal: </b><a href="http://bit.ly/JVkB4c">http://bit.ly/JVkB4c</a><br />
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<b style="color: #990000;">Please note: </b>If your computer is telling you it can only be downloaded as read-only, you probably need to save it to your computer, close it, and reopen it before it will let you make changes. If all else fails, leave me your email in the comments or click the email button on the left and I'll send it directly to you.<br />
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<b style="color: #990000;">Mac Users:</b> If you can't get it to download, please email me by clicking the button on the left or leave me your email in the comments. I'm happy to send it directly to you. If it's opening in read only, try the instructions found here: <a href="http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/mac/forum/macoffice2011-macexcel/office-files-locked-for-editing-in-mixed/d838b0d7-6b26-4206-b310-029c73cf0ba6">http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/mac/forum/macoffice2011-macexcel/office-files-locked-for-editing-in-mixed/d838b0d7-6b26-4206-b310-029c73cf0ba6</a>. If that doesn't work, let me know what it's doing, what type of error messages you're getting, and I'll try to figure it out.<br />
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Any questions, please leave them below.<br />
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Happy writing! :)<br />
<div class="tweetable">
Want a colorful spreadsheet to track your writing goals for 2014? Download one here from @abbyannis</div>
Abby Annishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05543937393055900844noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6470708183254646866.post-31846476292463779932013-10-28T05:00:00.000-06:002015-10-29T21:19:44.897-06:00NaNo Tracker Spreadsheet<div>
<span style="color: #990000;"><b><a href="http://abbyannis.blogspot.com/2015/10/nano-tracker-2015.html">NaNo Tracker 2015</a></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;"><b><a href="http://abbyannis.blogspot.com/2014/10/nano-tracker-2014.html">NaNo Tracker 2014</a><br /><a href="http://abbyannis.blogspot.com/2014/01/words-per-day-2014-spreadsheets.html">2014 Words Per Day Spreadsheet</a></b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #990000;"><b>ETA:</b></span> 11/1/13 And of course there's an error in the formula on day one. The error only affects day one and you won't even notice it unless you enter a starting word count, but I went ahead and fixed it. Future downloads should work the way they're supposed to. :)<br />
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NaNoWriMo starts on Friday! Are you ready?</div>
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In addition to all the outlining I've done, I've created a tracking spreadsheet, and I'd love to share it with all of you. I think it has some pretty cool features, but I did make it myself, so it's possible that's just me patting myself on the back. Go me! ;)</div>
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I set it up to be easily changed with just a few minor adjustments. </div>
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Depending on your schedule, you can select to write daily, Monday through Friday, or only on the weekends, and it will calculate what you need to write on those days to stay on track. You can also adjust the total goal for the month and it will recalculate the amounts based on that. And if you're using a WIP for NaNo instead of starting at zero, you can enter your starting word count and it will factor that into the totals for the month so you can just enter your WIP total each day. </div>
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Plus, it's date driven, so it will highlight the day you should be on and it will let you know your goal for that day. It will also show you if you're on track to meet your monthly goal. :)</div>
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Here are some examples to give you an idea of what it will look like as you enter your word count throughout the month. Click the pics to enlarge.</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-35ei_G25xjY/Um2rzWWyT9I/AAAAAAAABuA/4iGF7bKde2E/s1600/1+NaNo+Tracker+2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="280" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-35ei_G25xjY/Um2rzWWyT9I/AAAAAAAABuA/4iGF7bKde2E/s400/1+NaNo+Tracker+2013.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before you start . . .</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LHnxcppiBEc/Um2r0s3Er9I/AAAAAAAABuI/V6ojEU5-0Sg/s1600/2+NaNo+quarter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="280" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LHnxcppiBEc/Um2r0s3Er9I/AAAAAAAABuI/V6ojEU5-0Sg/s400/2+NaNo+quarter.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">About 1/4 of the way through . . .</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vCc2gH_rp3M/Um2r4zdz6sI/AAAAAAAABuc/Y-Z5yyF8hBI/s1600/3+NaNo+half.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="280" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vCc2gH_rp3M/Um2r4zdz6sI/AAAAAAAABuc/Y-Z5yyF8hBI/s400/3+NaNo+half.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Halfway point . . .</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u4DRhNLclzc/Um2r2VgjQwI/AAAAAAAABuQ/6NtCx7rAbh8/s1600/4+NaNo+three-quarter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="280" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u4DRhNLclzc/Um2r2VgjQwI/AAAAAAAABuQ/6NtCx7rAbh8/s400/4+NaNo+three-quarter.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">3/4 of the way there . . .</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-axkB8z_5PB4/Um2r4cUZxZI/AAAAAAAABuY/ZovweN8VnPk/s1600/5+NaNo+Winner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="280" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-axkB8z_5PB4/Um2r4cUZxZI/AAAAAAAABuY/ZovweN8VnPk/s400/5+NaNo+Winner.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And you're a winner! :)</td></tr>
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So how do you get a copy for yourself? </div>
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You can download it here: <a href="http://sdrv.ms/190sFtU">http://sdrv.ms/190sFtU</a> </div>
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After you click on the link, you will likely get something like this :<br />
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Just click OK and then click the appropriate button to open the file.<br />
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<strong>Internet Explorer:</strong><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UB_nPncmu8o/UUupIURri-I/AAAAAAAABnU/up1k-rGV3zU/s1600/Open2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="53" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UB_nPncmu8o/UUupIURri-I/AAAAAAAABnU/up1k-rGV3zU/s400/Open2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<strong>Firefox:</strong><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I47bkN1qA4Y/UUuqmumliaI/AAAAAAAABnc/zkJgM0_SX20/s1600/Open+firefox.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="302" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I47bkN1qA4Y/UUuqmumliaI/AAAAAAAABnc/zkJgM0_SX20/s400/Open+firefox.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<strong>Chrome</strong> automatically downloads the file and displays it in the bottom left corner of your screen. Just click the button and it will open.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Vmz__QaHXPM/UUusbOAXwEI/AAAAAAAABoI/ZPWbPMoBo5Y/s1600/Open+Chrome.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Vmz__QaHXPM/UUusbOAXwEI/AAAAAAAABoI/ZPWbPMoBo5Y/s1600/Open+Chrome.jpg" /></a></div>
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Once the file is open, you may need to enable editing. To do this, simply click the yellow <strong>Enable Editing</strong> button at the top of the spreadsheet. If you don't see this button, you don't need to do anything--you should be good to go.<br />
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Don't forget to save your file when you're done. :) Also, Skydrive automatically converts the file to the newest format (xlsx) when uploaded. If you want the 97-2003 format (xls), leave me your email address in the comments or email me by clicking the button under "Email Me" on the left, and I'll send it directly to you. Just FYI, I don't have access to versions of Excel older than 2007, so I'm not sure how making the file 97-2003 compatible will affect the functionality.<br />
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The workbook and worksheet are protected to protect the structure and the formulas, but I added a password to this one because I put so much time into it. I'd like to keep my signature on it. I've been over it and tested it several times, but it's still possible I missed something. If you find any issues with it, please let me know and I'll make corrections.<br />
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If you want to share it, please do. I just ask that you use this link (<a href="http://sdrv.ms/190sFtU">http://sdrv.ms/190sFtU</a>) and that you give me credit and link back to my blog.<br />
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<b style="color: #990000;">ETA: </b>If your computer is telling you it can only be downloaded as read-only, you probably need to save it to your computer, close it, and reopen it before it will let you make changes. If all else fails, leave me your email in the comments or click the email button on the left and I'll send it directly to you. Thanks so much for the Blitz, everyone! It's been a fabulous day! :)<br />
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<b style="color: #990000;">Mac Users: </b>Several Mac users have not been able to use the file, either because it won't download or because it's locked. If you can't get it to download, please email me by clicking the button on the left or leave me your email in the comments. I'm happy to send it directly to you. If it's opening in read only, try the instructions found here: <a href="http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/mac/forum/macoffice2011-macexcel/office-files-locked-for-editing-in-mixed/d838b0d7-6b26-4206-b310-029c73cf0ba6">http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/mac/forum/macoffice2011-macexcel/office-files-locked-for-editing-in-mixed/d838b0d7-6b26-4206-b310-029c73cf0ba6</a>. If that doesn't work, let me know what it's doing, what type of error messages you're getting, and I'll try to figure it out.<br />
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Any questions, please leave them below.<br />
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So, who's participating this year? If you want to add me as a buddy, my profile is <a href="http://nanowrimo.org/participants/stabby">here</a>. Or leave your username in the comments and I'll track you down.<br />
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Good luck, NaNo-ers! And Happy Monday!!! :)</div>
Abby Annishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05543937393055900844noreply@blogger.com323tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6470708183254646866.post-86690178750761047742013-10-22T08:24:00.000-06:002013-10-22T08:24:36.500-06:00Sip Swap!This is such a fun idea! :)<br />
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<a href="http://kelseymacke.com/sipswap"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rcOvow3Q14I/UmaHQCGklKI/AAAAAAAABtw/L1ZRbvrWrNA/s400/sipswap2013.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Go to <a href="http://kelseymacke.com/sipswap">http://kelseymacke.com/sipswap</a> for more details and to sign up.<br />
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Happy Tuesday, everyone! :)Abby Annishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05543937393055900844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6470708183254646866.post-76320835743851223912013-09-12T08:09:00.000-06:002013-09-27T11:00:46.060-06:00YA Speculative Fiction Excerpt for #Pitmad<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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Moved here: <a href="http://abbyannis.blogspot.com/p/embrol.html">http://abbyannis.blogspot.com/p/embrol.html</a></div>
Abby Annishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05543937393055900844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6470708183254646866.post-65977586892385864942013-05-28T20:32:00.001-06:002013-05-28T20:32:57.937-06:00Don't Quit and Other RemindersSome things to remember . . . because I always forget. :)<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="253" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/o2YeofV4bZU" width="450"></iframe>Abby Annishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05543937393055900844noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6470708183254646866.post-45566202867101560542013-05-20T08:26:00.000-06:002014-01-07T18:50:18.362-07:00Numerical Motivation: Using Spreadsheets to Increase My Word Count<b style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://abbyannis.blogspot.com/2014/01/words-per-day-2014-spreadsheets.html">2014 Words Per Day Spreadsheet</a></b><br />
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I originally posted this on <a href="http://operationawesome6.blogspot.com/">Operation Awesome</a> in March, but I wanted to post it here for anyone who missed it. :)<br />
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About a year ago I went back to work full time for the first time in ten years. Between that and the husband and the kids, it's been extremely difficult to make writing a priority. That's not even considering how fried my brain usually is when I get home from work. Weeks have gone by where I haven't written anything. So much guilt. But that's not what this post is about. No one wants to read about that.<br />
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This post is about my love for spreadsheets and how they've helped motivate me to write, even when I'm exhausted. <br />
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I started with your basic keep-track-of-how-much-I've-written type of spreadsheet. Excel is great for adding things together, but what most people don't know is just how awesome Excel is and how many other amazing things it can do.<br />
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And there's a new version out. I'm so jealous of anyone who has it. *drools*<br />
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Anyway, since I know what Excel is capable of, I can never have just a basic spreadsheet. I want my spreadsheets to do more for me than just addition and subtraction. And they should look pretty, too. So my basic keep-track-of-how-much-I've-written spreadsheet evolved into a tracking device with colorful rewards for reaching my goals and charts to show me how I'm doing over the year. I even added a WIP calculator. <br />
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And I thought I'd share it with all of you. :)<br />
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Here's a sample version:<br />
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<iframe frameborder="0" height="500" scrolling="no" src="https://skydrive.live.com/embed?cid=A92079C8014AC531&resid=A92079C8014AC531%212039&authkey=AK_f63oIeSLtBjY&em=2&wdAllowInteractivity=False&ActiveCell='January'!A1&wdHideGridlines=True&wdHideHeaders=True&wdDownloadButton=True" width="500"></iframe>
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Click on the<b> ... </b>next to March to see the other sheets.<br />
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The last three sheets in the workbook have the WIP Calculator, Stats, and Instructions. Don't let the fact that I included instructions scare you off. It's very simple to use. All you have to do is enter your daily goal and then your daily word count each day and the spreadsheet does the rest. :)<br />
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I modified my original version to accommodate the following schedules: Weekends Only (2 days per week), Mon-Fri (5 days per week), Mon-Sat (6 days per week), and Sun-Sat (7 days per week). They can be downloaded by clicking the links below. If none of these will work for your schedule, I put together a tutorial to show you how to customize the spreadsheet based on your schedule. That tutorial is <a href="http://abbyannis.blogspot.com/2013/03/numerical-motivation-spreadsheet.html">here</a>. <br />
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<span id="goog_1808233913"></span><a href="http://sdrv.ms/15oqvyY" target="_blank">Weekends Only<span id="goog_1808233914"></span></a><br />
<a href="http://sdrv.ms/Ynopzk" target="_blank">Monday thru Friday</a><br />
<a href="http://sdrv.ms/XotuEi" target="_blank">Monday thru Saturday</a><br />
<a href="http://sdrv.ms/WF61Ti" target="_blank">Sunday thru Saturday</a><br />
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Please note, to use the spreadsheets you <em>will</em> have to download them, and you will probably have to enable editing.<br />
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When you click on the links, you will likely get something like this :<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AqvHk7M2n5g/UUuoqWhWI6I/AAAAAAAABnE/46cyoLK6HPI/s1600/Couldn't+Load.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AqvHk7M2n5g/UUuoqWhWI6I/AAAAAAAABnE/46cyoLK6HPI/s400/Couldn't+Load.jpg" height="347" width="400" /></a></div>
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Just click OK and then click the appropriate button to open the file.<br />
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<strong>Internet Explorer:</strong><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UB_nPncmu8o/UUupIURri-I/AAAAAAAABnU/up1k-rGV3zU/s1600/Open2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UB_nPncmu8o/UUupIURri-I/AAAAAAAABnU/up1k-rGV3zU/s400/Open2.jpg" height="53" width="400" /></a></div>
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<strong>Firefox:</strong><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I47bkN1qA4Y/UUuqmumliaI/AAAAAAAABnc/zkJgM0_SX20/s1600/Open+firefox.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I47bkN1qA4Y/UUuqmumliaI/AAAAAAAABnc/zkJgM0_SX20/s400/Open+firefox.jpg" height="302" width="400" /></a></div>
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<strong>Chrome</strong> automatically downloads the file and displays it in the bottom left corner of your screen. Just click the button and it will open. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Vmz__QaHXPM/UUusbOAXwEI/AAAAAAAABoI/ZPWbPMoBo5Y/s1600/Open+Chrome.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Vmz__QaHXPM/UUusbOAXwEI/AAAAAAAABoI/ZPWbPMoBo5Y/s1600/Open+Chrome.jpg" /></a></div>
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Once the file is open, you may need to enable editing. To do this, simply click the yellow <strong>Enable Editing</strong> button at the top of the spreadsheet. If you don't see this button, you don't need to do anything--you should be good to go.<br />
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Don't forget to save your file when you're done. :) Also, Skydrive automatically converts the file to the newest format (xlsx) when uploaded. If you need the 97-2003 format (xls), leave me your email address in the comments or email me by clicking the button under "Email Me" on the left, and I'll send it directly to you.<br />
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The spreadsheets are all locked to protect the formulas. You'll still be able to enter your daily words and your daily goals with the locks in place.<br />
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If you're comfortable with Excel and aren't worried about erasing formulas, you can unlock the pages by going to the <strong>Review</strong> tab and clicking <strong>Unprotect Sheet</strong>. They're not password protected. (Pictorial instructions for removing protection are included in the tutorial <a href="http://abbyannis.blogspot.com/2013/03/numerical-motivation-spreadsheet.html">here</a>.)<br />
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If you have any questions or if something isn't working correctly, please let me know in the comments.<br />
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Now go write, so you can start filling in those numbers! ;)Abby Annishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05543937393055900844noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6470708183254646866.post-85920004748166131132013-03-29T09:53:00.002-06:002013-03-29T09:53:24.435-06:00Have You Joined the Blog Blitz?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://dlcruisingaltitude.blogspot.com/2013/03/blog-blitz-wanna-join.html"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cjwxKmYpUZ0/UVW4HzWRg0I/AAAAAAAABqE/0g-ij9kSiMc/s1600/Blog+Blitz+Edit.jpg" /></a></div>
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The ever-awesome DL Hammons at <a href="http://dlcruisingaltitude.blogspot.com/">Cruising Altitude 2.0</a> has come up with <a href="http://dlcruisingaltitude.blogspot.com/2013/03/blog-blitz-wanna-join.html">an amazing idea</a> for sharing the love around the blogosphere. Only <a href="http://pk-hrezo.blogspot.com/2013/03/my-top-ten-best-movies.html">one blog has been blitzed so far</a>, but I'd say it was a huge success. And there's more awesomeness to come.<br />
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For more details and to get in on the action, <a href="http://dlcruisingaltitude.blogspot.com/2013/03/blog-blitz-wanna-join.html">click here</a>. :)Abby Annishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05543937393055900844noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6470708183254646866.post-87316237024166527942013-03-23T05:00:00.000-06:002013-05-20T09:18:56.494-06:00Numerical Motivation: Spreadsheet Awesomeness TutorialToday on <a href="http://operationawesome6.blogspot.com/2013/03/numerical-motivation-spreadsheet.html">Operation Awesome</a> (and in <a href="http://abbyannis.blogspot.com/2013/05/numerical-motivation-using-spreadsheets.html">this future post</a> on my blog) I'm sharing the spreadsheet I use to keep track of my writing progress. It calculates based on my daily writing goals and the days of the week I write. I've created four versions: Weekends Only (2 days per week), Mon thru Fri (5 days per week), Mon thru Sat (6 days per week), and Sun thru Sat (7 days per week). I figured these would be the most common writing schedules, but in case your schedule is different, I've created a tutorial below so you can change the formulas to match the days you write, which will give you more accurate calculations. <br />
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Changing a spreadsheet might seem overwhelming (especially if you've never worked in Excel before), but it's actually a pretty simple process if you know the formulas to use. And I'll walk you through it step-by-step. :)<br />
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First, you'll need to download the spreadsheet that is closest to your schedule (but, really, any of them will work). Links to the spreadsheets and download instructions are in today's post on the <a href="http://operationawesome6.blogspot.com/2013/03/numerical-motivation-spreadsheet.html">Operation Awesome blog</a> or on my blog <a href="http://abbyannis.blogspot.com/2013/05/numerical-motivation-using-spreadsheets.html">here</a>.<br />
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Once you have the file open and you've enabled editing, you'll need to unprotect all the month pages. <br />
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<strong><span style="color: #660000;">Unprotecting the Sheets:</span></strong><br />
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First, select a sheet by clicking on the tab at the bottom (<strong>January</strong>, <strong>February</strong>, etc.), then click the <strong>Review</strong> menu at the top and click <strong>Unprotect Sheet</strong>.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IoUnHlPDDQs/UUuxklTzxVI/AAAAAAAABoc/ohoaO16Tyuk/s1600/Unprotect+Sheet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IoUnHlPDDQs/UUuxklTzxVI/AAAAAAAABoc/ohoaO16Tyuk/s1600/Unprotect+Sheet.jpg" /></a></div>
You'll need to repeat this step for each of the month sheets. You might want to save the file after you're done unprotecting everything so you don't have to repeat all these steps if something goes amiss later on. :)<br />
<br />
Next, you'll need to group the sheets together so you only have to enter the formula once. If you want to do a different schedule every month, skip this step.<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="color: #660000;">Grouping the Sheets:</span></strong><br />
<br />
First, select the <strong>January</strong> sheet...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fGmrivg_Vko/UUuyWuNFCJI/AAAAAAAABok/2iksLYbQ_sc/s1600/January.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fGmrivg_Vko/UUuyWuNFCJI/AAAAAAAABok/2iksLYbQ_sc/s1600/January.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
And while holding the <strong>Shift Key</strong> down, select the <strong>December</strong> sheet.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FzinCqatC64/UUu0mltURqI/AAAAAAAABo0/2TXy2URH980/s1600/December.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FzinCqatC64/UUu0mltURqI/AAAAAAAABo0/2TXy2URH980/s1600/December.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
It might be a little hard to see, but all the month tabs should now be lighter than the other tabs.<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="color: #660000;">Customizing the Writing Days Per Month:</span></strong><br />
<br />
Now that the sheets are grouped, go to cell <strong>J1</strong> (next to <strong>Writing Days:</strong>) in any of the month sheets.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jsKMVaBdFlw/UUu0FEw6_BI/AAAAAAAABos/ZP3YJrjfjGY/s1600/J1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jsKMVaBdFlw/UUu0FEw6_BI/AAAAAAAABos/ZP3YJrjfjGY/s1600/J1.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
You can see the formula in the box above the cell. Making changes in this box will be easier than making them in the actual cell.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PvHPBI2nE4w/UUu1mp-2III/AAAAAAAABo8/L43jPYsRyKU/s1600/formula.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="80" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PvHPBI2nE4w/UUu1mp-2III/AAAAAAAABo8/L43jPYsRyKU/s400/formula.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The basic formula is (you can copy and paste into the cell or the box shown above):</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>=COUNTIF($A$3:$A$33,"<span style="color: red;">M</span>")</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's set to count the days of the week as they're listed in the far left column of the sheet. The above formula will count all the Mondays. To add additional days, you need to add to the formula. Note: you will need to change the<strong> =</strong> to <strong>+</strong> for any additions.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>=COUNTIF($A$3:$A$33,"<span style="color: red;">M</span>")+COUNTIF($A$3:$A$33,"<span style="color: red;">T</span>")</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
That will count all the Mondays and Tuesdays. You can continue to add to or subtract from the formula until it fits your schedule. The part you'll need to change with each addition is the letter in quotes at the end (in red).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>Monday = "M"</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>Tuesday = "T"</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>Wednesday = "W"</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>Thursday = "Th"</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>Friday = "F"</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>Saturday = "Sa"</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>Sunday = "Su"</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
Once you're satisfied with the days you have it set to count, hit <strong>Enter</strong> and it should calculate your total writing days for the month and your <strong>Monthly Goal</strong>.* <br />
<br />
<strong><span style="color: #660000;">Setting Your Weekly Goal:</span></strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
To change the weekly formula, click on cell <strong>J3 </strong>(next to <strong>Weekly Goal:</strong>).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XpeV8nUUYlE/UUvYRxpRSyI/AAAAAAAABp0/TM2P8ErmQeg/s1600/J3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="187" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XpeV8nUUYlE/UUvYRxpRSyI/AAAAAAAABp0/TM2P8ErmQeg/s400/J3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The formula here is pretty basic. You'll need to determine how many days you'll be writing each week. For example, if in the last step you set it to count Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, you'll be writing four days per week. <br />
<br />
So the formula for that would be (again, you can copy and paste):<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
<strong>=J2*<span style="color: red;">4</span></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Adjust the last number (in red) to match your schedule. Hit <strong>Enter</strong> and it should calculate your weekly goal based on your daily goal.*</div>
<br />
If you <em>didn't</em> group the sheets before entering the formula, you will need to repeat these steps for each of the month sheets.<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="color: #660000;">Ungrouping the Sheets:</span></strong><br />
<br />
If you <em>did</em> group the sheets, you will now need to ungroup them. This step is VERY IMPORTANT. If you don't ungroup the sheets, then every bit of data you enter will be included on all the month sheets regardless of what is already entered. To ungroup them, right click one of the month tabs and click <strong>Ungroup Sheets</strong>:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HTnFh73u1fA/UUvMpb8PZDI/AAAAAAAABpM/TbdKgaLecmA/s1600/Ungroup+sheets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HTnFh73u1fA/UUvMpb8PZDI/AAAAAAAABpM/TbdKgaLecmA/s1600/Ungroup+sheets.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<strong><span style="color: #660000;">Protecting the Sheets:</span></strong><br />
<br />
If you want the formulas to be protected from being accidentally erased you will need to protect the individual sheets. Do this by clicking each sheet and going back to the <strong>Review</strong> menu. Click <strong>Protect Sheet</strong>:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DXjoyaBmjzk/UUvNqH6WwhI/AAAAAAAABpU/T1JO3pmZgX4/s1600/Protect+Sheet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DXjoyaBmjzk/UUvNqH6WwhI/AAAAAAAABpU/T1JO3pmZgX4/s1600/Protect+Sheet.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And click <strong>OK </strong>on the window that pops up. You can add a password if you want, but it's not required.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ONCAbFSMPl8/UUvNrHpjEYI/AAAAAAAABpc/LMPHjqPdzIs/s1600/Protect+OK.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ONCAbFSMPl8/UUvNrHpjEYI/AAAAAAAABpc/LMPHjqPdzIs/s1600/Protect+OK.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Repeat this step for all the month sheets. Then all you have to do is save your file and you're all set to start tracking your words. :)<br />
<br />
<strong>Any questions?</strong> If you're confused or if something doesn't make sense, please let me know in the comments. I'll do my best to clarify.<br />
<br />
*If you think you've entered something incorrectly, or if you accidentally click on the wrong cell and delete something, don't freak out. Ctrl+z fixes everything. :) If ctrl+z isn't undoing the problem, sometimes you have to hit Enter and then ctrl+z. If all else fails, you can always just close the workbook and start over.Abby Annishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05543937393055900844noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6470708183254646866.post-17404061669876018402013-03-14T08:15:00.000-06:002013-03-14T08:15:37.825-06:00Pens for Paws Auction--Time is Running Out!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o4v4O4boueQ/UQ_ma42XSMI/AAAAAAAABmw/ofwDX5DCUTU/s1600/p4p.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o4v4O4boueQ/UQ_ma42XSMI/AAAAAAAABmw/ofwDX5DCUTU/s1600/p4p.jpg" /></a></div>
The <a href="http://pensforpaws.blogspot.com/">Pens for Paws Auction</a> is going on right now! Up for bids today is <a href="http://pensforpaws.blogspot.com/2013/03/awesome-multi-prize-package-from.html">a package from the Operation Awesome crew</a>, including a 20-page critique from yours truly. Plus, there are lots of other awesome items, even some really generous critiques from agents. Be sure to check it out and get your hands on some pretty cool stuff, and help out some cute little animals in the process. :)<br />
<br />
Bidding on the Operation Awesome package ends tomorrow and the auction ends on Saturday. Hurry over so you don't miss it!Abby Annishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05543937393055900844noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6470708183254646866.post-60279756769564944962013-02-23T05:00:00.000-07:002013-02-23T05:00:00.963-07:00Embracing Your Inner AwesomeMy second post is up on <a href="http://operationawesome6.blogspot.com/">Operation Awesome</a> today and I'm talking about embracing success. Stop by and let me know what makes you awesome. :)Abby Annishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05543937393055900844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6470708183254646866.post-55798803919650297802013-02-04T01:23:00.000-07:002013-02-06T22:59:52.055-07:00Kissing Scene CompetitionThis is my entry
for the Kissing Scene Competition put on by the awesomeness that is <a href="http://cupidslitconnection.blogspot.com/">Cupid’sLiterary Connection</a>. Also, my entry is up over there (<a href="http://cupidslitconnection.blogspot.com/2013/02/bouncer-post-114.html">#114</a>) for Blind Speed Dating
Round #4 if you want to check it out. :) <br />
<br />
<strong><span style="color: #990000;">Update: I made it into the agent round!!! Yay!</span></strong><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0in;">
A little info to
get you started: Seventeen-year-old Olivia has been dreaming of the boy she
calls <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">her angel</i> since her fifteenth
birthday, but she’s never met him in the real world. In fact, she believes he’s
a figment of her imagination. This is the end of their dream—it’s always the
same—the last time she has it before she wakes up and finds out he’s not only
real, but he’s responsible for her mom’s death. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0in;">
Here we go… :)</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0in;">
*****</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0in;">
“Okay, Olivia.”
He kissed each of my eyelids. “Open them.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0in;">
At first, all I
could see was his face, beaming down at me. I had to tear my gaze from his to
look around. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0in;">
A seemingly
endless field of glowing flowers stretched in every direction. The large,
seven-petal blossoms shifted in the breeze. Their luminosity changed depending
on the angle, making it clear they weren’t actually glowing, but reflecting the
moonlight. It gave the illusion we stood, waist deep, in the middle of a
glistening sea. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0in;">
“Well?” A nervous
smile played at his lips. “Disappointed?”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0in;">
“Are you
kidding?” I laughed and turned to stare at the breathtaking scene. “This might
be the most beautiful place in the universe.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0in;">
He rested a hand
on my hip, his breath a warm caress on my neck. “You would know better than anyone.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0in;">
I’d yet to figure
out what he meant by that, but I couldn’t make myself care. Not with him so
close. I twisted around to face him, and his hand slid from my hip to my back, his
fingers slipping under the hem of my shirt and brushing my skin. He pulled me tight
against him, closer than I’d ever been to any boy. Coherent thought became
impossible, and I said the first thing that popped into my head. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0in;">
“Is this Heaven?”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0in;">
He laughed, his
eyes shining in the light from the two moons overhead. “You’re messing with me,
right…? Okay. I’ll play. No, it’s not Heaven, but sometimes, it feels that way,
especially with you here.”<a href="http://www.blogger.com/null" name="stoppedhere020113"></a> </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0in;">
My hands tangled
in his hair, drawing his face closer. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0in;">
“I wish you could
stay,” he said and pressed his lips to mine in a soft but lingering kiss. Heat
poured into me wherever our skin touched.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0in;">
I wanted to stay,
more than anything, but I knew I couldn’t. The feeling of being watched sprang
up behind me and I knew it was time. I pressed closer, trying to feel all of
him before it ended. He moved his mouth to my ear.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0in;">
“See you soon,” he whispered, and the world faded away. </div>
Abby Annishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05543937393055900844noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6470708183254646866.post-19365604478519650992013-02-02T15:15:00.001-07:002013-02-02T15:15:50.089-07:00Shiny New Look :)I figured the blog could use some freshening up. Plus, I had nothing else to do today. Well, nothing I <em>wanted</em> to do, anyway. ;)<br />
<br />
I should probably go do dishes now<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">—</span>and the million pieces of laundry I've been ignoring. *sigh*Abby Annishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05543937393055900844noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6470708183254646866.post-70461246756628871872013-02-01T06:00:00.000-07:002013-02-01T06:00:04.227-07:00Operation Awesome!!Wow. It's been a while. Seven months to be exact. Oddly enough, I had a whopping <em>seven</em> posts in 2012 as well. O_o Such a slacker.<br />
<br />
Anyway, 2012 was a year of adjustments for me. In December 2011, I went back to work part-time after being a lady of leisure for several months. I miss being a lady of leisure. :( Then in May, I started working full-time for the first time in ten years. If you were paying attention, you might have noticed that was when my posts stopped. Yeah, a lot of things stopped that month, including productive writing time and a clean house. And a little bit of being a good mother.<br />
<br />
Now, almost eight months later, I finally feel like I'm getting a handle on my life. Well, sort of, anyway. So, since I feel like I'm starting to find some balance, I've decided to add something to my schedule. <br />
<br />
I've joined the team over at <a href="http://operationawesome6.blogspot.com/">Operation Awesome</a>! More hours in the day will magically appear, right? ;) Well, even if they don't, I'm really excited about this, so I'll find the time to make it work. And though I don't miss posting every single day, I've missed the community. It'll be good to be back in the loop. I feel like I've missed so much over the last year. <br />
<br />
And of course, since I was gone, you all must've gotten book deals. That always happens when I take an extended break. ;)<br />
<br />
So, what's been happening with all of you over the last seven months? Anything exciting? I'd love to hear any news, big or small. :)Abby Annishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05543937393055900844noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6470708183254646866.post-83444718759475846442012-05-30T21:20:00.000-06:002013-02-02T11:36:51.385-07:00So Excited!!This is my absolute favorite musical, ever! I've watched this at least ten times already. Can't get enough.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="253" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/5slbuWpZwjg" width="450"></iframe><br />
<br />
Christmas is too far away. :(Abby Annishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05543937393055900844noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6470708183254646866.post-5216091518857086762012-05-29T18:55:00.003-06:002012-05-29T18:55:51.162-06:00Share the Lubov Critique GiveawayI know it seems like I'm running the I ♥ Karen Show lately, but what can I say? I'm super excited for her. Plus she's having an awesome giveaway to celebrate her book deal, so I have to share. <br />
<br />
Up for grabs:<br />
<br />
A full manuscript critique from Karen--this alone makes the contest awesome, but then she added this...<br />
<br /><em>A FIRST THREE CHAPTERS CRITIQUE from her agent, Victoria Marini!!! </em><br />
<br />
Contest ends June 1st, so hurry over and <a href="http://novelsduringnaptime.blogspot.com/2012/05/share-lubov-critique-giveaway.html">check it out</a>!Abby Annishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05543937393055900844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6470708183254646866.post-71118104788203649972012-05-20T15:04:00.000-06:002013-06-02T18:16:10.886-06:00Congrats, Karen! Wait, didn't I write this post already?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Seems like <a href="http://abbyannis.blogspot.com/2012/02/congrats-karen.html">I was just congratulating</a> crit buddy <a href="http://novelsduringnaptime.blogspot.com/2012/05/sothis-happened.html">Karen Akins</a> on getting an agent and now she has a <a href="http://novelsduringnaptime.blogspot.com/2012/05/sothis-happened.html">two-book deal</a>! How freaking awesome is that? Way to go, Karen! You're the bomb diggity, yo!*<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">*This last bit is for my twelve-year-old daughter who is sitting here, watching me write this. She hates when I say that in front of her friends, so of course, it needed to find its way into a blog post for the <em>whole world</em> to see. ;)</span>Abby Annishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05543937393055900844noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6470708183254646866.post-81217014240900950002012-05-05T12:24:00.000-06:002012-05-05T12:24:37.081-06:00Still AliveAlmost three months without a single blog post? I don't think that has ever happened. Well, for those of you who are still around, I haven't completely fallen off the face of the earth, just a little buried lately. <br />
<br />
We moved into a new house in March--new to us, anyway. It's been a huge blessing, but there's still so much work to do. It's a bit of a fixer-upper. And how do we have so much stuff? This house is considerably bigger than our last house, but it's already full <em>and </em>we have a very full two car garage without any cars in it. I think sunlight might be causing my junk to multiply. Obviously, the solution is to just seal off the garage and never go in there again. ;) I'm hoping to have it all unpacked by 2014 or whenever.<br />
<br />
Awesome things are happening at work. That's all I can say on that for now... But I can say I've been very lucky to find a job I love, working with some pretty great people. <br />
<br />
And I'm querying again, so I'm extremely busy refreshing my email every five seconds. It's all about priorities. ;)<br />
<br />
So between the house, work, the kids (you'd think they'd require <em>less</em> of my time as they get older--totally not the case), and the major case of strep throat we've all had for the last week, it's a struggle to find time to write, much less blog, but I'm determined to do better. I'm going to shoot for once a week with at least one <a href="http://abbyannis.blogspot.com/p/word-tips.html">Word Tip Wednesday</a> post a month. Feel free to chastise me if I'm slacking. :)<br />
<br />
Have a great weekend, everyone!Abby Annishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05543937393055900844noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6470708183254646866.post-36160938642961268752012-02-09T08:44:00.001-07:002012-02-09T08:44:58.030-07:00Congrats, Karen!Fabulous writer friend and crit partner <a href="http://novelsduringnaptime.blogspot.com/2012/02/in-which-i-jump-up-and-down-and-squeal.html">Karen Akins</a> got herself one of them fancy literary agents! She just signed with <a href="http://rapidprogressive.wordpress.com/">Victoria Marini</a>! So awesome, right? Head <a href="http://novelsduringnaptime.blogspot.com/2012/02/in-which-i-jump-up-and-down-and-squeal.html">on over</a> and congratulate her. :)Abby Annishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05543937393055900844noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6470708183254646866.post-60315813727394654452012-01-06T18:57:00.002-07:002012-01-06T18:57:15.308-07:00Blog Chain: Pieces of MeIt's blog chain time again and I'm late. Despite being a short week thanks to the holiday, it's been a <i>very</i> long week.<br />
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This round was started by <a href="http://jonathonarntson.blogspot.com/2012/01/blog-chain-welcome-to-home-of-dimwits.html">Jon</a>. <br />
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<b><i>Imagine the home(s) where you grew up, and start drawing a floor
plan. As you draw, memories will surface. Grab onto one of those
memories and tell us a story.</i></b><br />
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I tried to come up with one particular story, something to
capture the essence of my childhood, but whenever I think of that house, it's a collage of small moments, a thousand little things.<br />
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Sharing a tiny bedroom with my three younger sisters. Torture for a teenage girl, but I survived.<br />
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Sitting in my older (and only) brother's room, planning a novel for which we never came
up with a premise, much less any sort of plot. But it was going to make us
rich and famous, of course.<br />
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Kittens, kittens, and more kittens. So very many kittens.<br />
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The summer monsoons followed by a plague of baby toads, which we gathered in buckets and brought home. I always loved those tiny toads.<br />
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Rain coming down in buckets. I used to sit at the window and watch it flood the road in front of our house until it flowed over the edge of the sidewalk. An Arizona thunderstorm is still one of my favorite things to watch.<br />
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The smell of orange blossoms from the groves that surrounded our street. We loved to play hide and seek (and whatever else we could think of) in those orange groves--totally against the rules--and never got in trouble because we never got caught.<br />
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Or hopping the fence to swim in the irrigation ditch behind our house--also against the rules and we did get caught a few times but that didn't stop us. I mean, it was an <i>irrigation ditch</i>. Hours of endless fun.<br />
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Hanging out in the kitchen with my mom, learning to make bread, and fudge, and pies. For being the diet queen, my mom always made the best fattening foods.<br />
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Many hours at the kitchen table with my mom, learning to sew, or just talking for hours about anything and everything.<br />
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And late nights with my mom and sisters spent laughing at nothing. A sound that still echoes in my thoughts whenever I think about that house.<br />
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What about you? Anything about your childhood home you want to share?<br />
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Be sure to check out <a href="http://michellemclean.blogspot.com/2012/01/blog-chain-childhood-memories.html">Michelle</a>'s post from Wednesday and <a href="http://amparo-ortiz.blogspot.com/">Amparo</a>'s post today. :)Abby Annishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05543937393055900844noreply@blogger.com12