I don’t know if you’ve looked at a calendar recently, but did you know that July has 31 days? We love putting on Camp this month because of that bonus day: it’s like finding crumpled cash in the pocket of the cargo shorts you haven’t worn in a while—not expected, but utterly fantastic.

Actually, when you think about it, the whole NaNoWriMo experience is a little like that. Put on your creative cap for a whole month (no matter when you last wore it), and you will be consistently surprised by what you unearth.

Right Now

• The Writing Resources page is a collection of every piece of Camp advice or encouragement we’ve ever published. Plus, meet the wise Camp Counselors on our blog.

• Invest in your success with a small donation. (This actually works: writers who financially commit to their projects are more likely to win.) Or, get sponsored by your family and friends.

• Pick up that T-shirt or mug you’ve been eyeing. Both look great with millinery.

Week One

Start writing! If you’re looking for a little help…

• On Wednesday at 11:00 AM PST, join us for a Virtual Write-In. We’ll meet every week at the same time to build worlds together.

• On Thursday, check your Camper Messages for the month’s first pep talk.

Week Two

We know this week has high writer’s block potential…

• Repel it with daily challenges from @NaNoWordSprints, conversations in the NaNoWriMo forums, and Friday’s Facebook writing prompt.

Week Three

Please, please, please back up your project…

• Then, secure your chapeau: it’s time to bust out some serious words and get ready to win next week.

Week Four

• You can win—by reaching your goal and validating your word count—from Friday, July 25 through Thursday, July 31. (If you’re planning to work up until the last minute, be sure your time zone is set correctly.)

• To make it official, just click “Validate your word count to win” under the tent on the homepage and follow the directions from there. You’ll receive a selection of winner prizes a few days later; check out our sponsor offers for a preview (plus a few all-Camper discounts).

We’ll be right there with you this month, from first day to bonus day. Oh, and did I mention? That creative cap really suits you. Wear it always.

So excited to see what you discover,

Chris Angotti, Director of Programs

At midnight on April 1, you’ll set out on a month-long hike. No, not along the Appalachian Trail or the Great Wall of China or anything pedestrian like that. This trek traverses more glorious territory: your unique, creative brain.

So strap your pen, laptop, or typewriter to your back and let’s get moving. (We’re jealous of you hand-writers in this metaphor.) This email serves as an easily stowed guide to what we’ve got planned during your journey.

Before You Go