Plot-Stuck

So, here's the deal. I've taken these kids, my characters, on a journey and now they have arrived and I don't know where to take them next. This, ladies and gentlemen, is a conundrum.

Part of the problem is that from the beginning, there were several ways this story could have gone. The beginning and the middle were basically the same - introduce characters and problem, have characters discover themselves/issues in the face of this problem. Then what was to come next could be open to many, many things. Much like getting your butt through high school or college. You do it because you have to, you learn a lot along the way, then once you graduate the big question mark comes and it's up to you what you do with it.

At first, my idea was that they would have a fairly peaceful and productive existence, probably because that's what I personally prefer. However, that doesn't always make for an interesting read. So, the next idea was to throw some conspiracy and conflict their way, raise the stakes and make it about a bigger picture they were going to have to solve. Which was great. Had the idea, knew about how to handle it. On my way. And so were my characters.

Until they decided that wasn't what was in store for them and the plot veered off to the left. Now I've got them on this side road, full of potholes and intersections, and no road map or GPS to know where the heck they are going. Never in my planning were they supposed to end up in Olympia. Uh-uh. And much like my characters, I've never even been to Olympia. Dang it. Why did they decide that's the place to go? In a world of politics and back handed dealings - which I admittedly have no interest in. So, to this I say, "Thanks a lot, Marcus. I despise you right now just as much as those kids."

My earlier inspiration has run it's course, and I am very grateful because there was some good stuff in there, tie-ins and imagery. I liked it! Now, at this very moment, three kids are in a car that smells of arthritis cream and pickles, stuck listening to disco with a wall-flower of a woman, and on their way to the state capital. They have no idea what's in store for them, only that they have to get there by morning. And, I find myself in the same boat. Minus the arthritis cream and pickles.

Not sure how I'm going to get us out of this mess, but I'm sure it'll come to me. Good grief.