I began writing with NaNoWriMo in 2006. I was a fledgling author at the time and it gave me an opportunity to be motivated and encouraged to write as much as I could in one month--and I wrote more than I had thought possible! Sure, the quality wasn't where I could have wanted it, but it was a first step to many years of growth that I've been able to be a part of because of NaNoWriMo.

In 2009 I served my first year volunteering as a Municipal Liaison, or volunteer regional coordinator. Not only did this allow me to continue to develop my writing skills and my leadership skills, it opened a new world of writing with others to me that has forged friendships that have now lasted years, making me a stronger writer and a stronger person.

NaNoWriMo has been instrumental in my growth and I know it will continue to be a part of my life for years to come.