I snagged this meme from Catherine Haines‘ blog. Because it looked fun, I love NaNo, and she told me to. 
When and how did you find out about NaNoWriMo? How did you do?
My first NaNo introduction was on AbsoluteWrite Water Cooler where I noticed people talking about NaNo, entering/winning/and the frustrations of lack of sleep. I was bemused that some people I knew had won, thinking it was an enormous international writing competition of some kind. By the time I finally figured it out, it was 2007. I entered and wrote 51,000+ words on a Historical novel. Rather hard task, might I add, seeing as it was mostly unresearched.
Where do you write and with what do you write?
My first novel was written almost solely on notebooks in cafes and on the ferry. I still have those notebooks and boy were they ever a pain to type up. Since I got my first laptop, I have used these glorious machines almost exclusively for serious writing. I plan out most novels and scribble ideas on paper, but write on my laptop. I like sitting comfortable, quiet places close to sources of coffee, and have been known to brew large pots and sit next to them basking in the radiance of the caffeine.
How do you find time to write?
Let’s not talk about this. No, really. I used to write in holidays, weekends, evenings, any time at all. But lately (especially since I moved far far away and into the next galaxy) I have had little energy or time to spend outside of my busy job and full-time study. This and I am very easily distracted by shiny things.
Huh?
I’m sorry…
What did you say?
SHINY
Are your partners, friends and family allies or enemies?
My family gets that I write, my brothers more than my parents. I think they understand – as much as any non-write can understand anyway. Most of my friends aren’t writers but they take me in their stride. I have an eccentric reputation (not deserved. I totally didn’t grab a friend who was sitting on the stairs, gabble that she looked like a character, and tug her all around the theatre we were in to find a camera to photograph her with. Really. <.< >.>). Luckily I have *some* writing friends, like Catherine and JK and other lovely people, who make me feel less mad.
What are you strengths and what do you use to help you get to the end?
Originality, my stories are usually quite unusual. I like to think I’m good at building characters and tension, setting scenes, and drawing the reader into the story. I discipline myself to write the whole thing from start to end instead of running off in tangents to the ‘most fun part’.
What are your weaknesses, obstacles and challenges that hinder you from finishing?
Low self-esteem, tireness, shiny things, and a general worry that I’m failing.
Do you plot/outline/plan or do you write by the seat of your pants? How much do you plot or how unprepared are you?
I outline with moderate detail, having had a bad experience of non-outlining where I had to rewrite half a novel. I research to the enth degree. Really. Honestly. I have about 200 pages for my current novel.
Do you participate in the real life community, go to write ins and meet ups in your area?
Haven’t before, but there’s a fun kickoff party going on with me and Catherine. Yay for Halloween, writing, movies, and geekfests.
What are your writing aids? Special snacks, music, totems, rewards or punishments?
Music – to set the mood. Coffee. Silence. Fresh air. Support from family members. An ability to disconnect the net.