tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-143973872024-03-19T08:31:38.633-04:00Poet MomEver tried.
Ever failed.
No matter.
Try again.
Fail again.
Fail better.
<br><br>~Samuel BeckettJanuaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036651950996873368noreply@blogger.comBlogger2545125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14397387.post-79690963756513487252022-01-27T20:04:00.003-05:002022-01-27T20:06:29.958-05:00New DigsI have a new home! Come visit me at <a href="https://www.januarygilloneil.com/">https://www.januarygilloneil.com/</a><div><br /></div><div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Januaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036651950996873368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14397387.post-75642968653441922262020-10-22T23:53:00.009-04:002020-10-23T00:04:45.767-04:00It's Lit podcast<p><span face="DM Sans, sans-serif" style="color: #697f95;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;">Happy to be featured on It's Lit to spotlight this wonderful anthology. Listen!
</span></span></p><p><span face=""DM Sans", sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #697f95; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></p><p><span face=""DM Sans", sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #697f95; font-size: 14px;">This special episode of It’s Lit features the literature of Julie Gardner, Devis S. Laskar, January O'Neil, and Grace Talusan, four contributors to a remarkable collection of poetry and prose that came out this year titled "<a href="https://www.mixcloud.com/anjoli-roy/ep-126-_alone-together_-edited-by-jennifer-haupt/">Alone Together: Love, Grief, and Comfort in the Time of COVID-19</a>", edited by Jennifer Haupt.</span></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6AcnG5Fvw30CsNd0JDYv86hoszFX1ap2V0ACaNBQubBt-PvXMwbENUDTMILn35VhKL0IaBRnx2jCxDrPuZnqe7JqDfIv6faHGu2BtRDGBlhR_02Qb0xgdNXBIiuHQUM9vvv_t/s500/alone+together.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="333" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6AcnG5Fvw30CsNd0JDYv86hoszFX1ap2V0ACaNBQubBt-PvXMwbENUDTMILn35VhKL0IaBRnx2jCxDrPuZnqe7JqDfIv6faHGu2BtRDGBlhR_02Qb0xgdNXBIiuHQUM9vvv_t/s320/alone+together.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>
<br />Januaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036651950996873368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14397387.post-11045453962546173532020-04-14T14:54:00.001-04:002020-04-14T14:55:29.789-04:00Mass Poets read "In this Place (An American Lyric)" by Amanda Gorman<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/W9UmyBSMn3A" width="480"></iframe><br />
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<br /><br />Please watch and share this beautiful video from Mass Poetry. ❤️<br /><br />“In This Place (An American Lyric)” features a stirring choral recitation of a protest-themed poem of the same name by National Youth Poet Laureate Amanda Gorman. This short film, released in conjunction with National Poetry Month, features 16 Massachusetts poets hailing from across the state, This video, created in collaboration with videographer Paula Champagne, also marks Mass Poetry’s contribution to a national collaboration by the Poetry Coalition—an alliance of more than 25 independent poetry organizations across the United States—to explore the theme “I am deliberate / and afraid / of nothing: Poetry & Protest.” More info: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.masspoetry.org%2Fpoetry-coalition-2020%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR2apEtxWkxo7b5_xpRxtJOtSjQfcBkh6aZ3BZbi-n5VuuwIr4hNTCLUvVc&h=AT2eprTbhSzO7CQYwQe94ncX45ckTT1Lj3KYdEEFMHXJhSO-U_qc1zvmmSZwN22WYqInn2Zvyule4wparAwBYJ_ClLsMyy_9S99JkyGDhm86uzBdELG-ljJXBQMfgZ2plQIHsIyi99tY1nrKOgPEzVVy-6-n">http://www.masspoetry.org/poetry-coalition-2020</a>Januaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036651950996873368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14397387.post-42488741296584837332020-04-05T20:51:00.000-04:002020-04-05T20:52:22.942-04:00Kibbles and Bits<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Here's a picture Ella snapped of me yesterday. Decided to put on a dress as a change from jeans. In Mississippi, it was 73 degrees and overcast. Today, 80 and sunny. I'll take it. This is 30 degrees warmer than my home in Massachusetts.<br />
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There are worse places to shelter. Not a day goes by that I don't feel an enormous sense of gratitude. And yes, it's time to think about moving back home. We're ready--almost.<br />
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Blogging keeps me limber. Gives me something to do in between binge-watching episodes of Chicago P.D., and 30 Rock with my daughter. It's also a good way to open up my brainspace to poems.<br />
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I'm participating in two writing groups for National Poetry Month. Pandemic poetry seems to be a theme in both. Truth is, I have been writing fairly consistently for months. It has certainly ramped up the last three weeks after I broke up with my boyfriend.<br />
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Yes, I had a boyfriend. The pandemic sped up our ultimate end. But it was all good. All joy while it lasted. 💗<br />
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Yesterday, I FaceTiming with Susan Rich, who asked me about my trip to Nigeria last year. Seems like a world away when I traveled with an international educational program to teach creative writing for a week. I was lucky to go with a group of talented, experienced writers. That was the scariest thing I had every done, traveling so far from home without my kids. The trip--which was amazing--told me that if I could do that, I could do anything: move to Mississippi, write another book, and date again.<br />
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I wholeheartedly believe that anything is possible. And while I don't know what's around the corner, I do believe we'll get through this. Slowly.Januaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036651950996873368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14397387.post-44341727105885689062020-03-28T14:01:00.004-04:002020-03-28T14:09:29.876-04:00Never Say Never<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Oh blogger, why can't I quit you?<br />
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There's no good reason why I should be back here again, but, well, sheltering in place brings out the blogger in me. So, I will use this place as my virtual hangout until we return to some normalcy. Although, at this point, it seems like we have weeks to go before I can be in a room with people outside of my family.<br />
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This is Mabel, our pup, after just scaring the two Canadian geese into the pond.<br />
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The pond is on the property of the Grisham House in Oxford, MS. I've been teaching at the University of Mississippi since August. Now I'm teaching classes online, which is cool--but not how I expected to spend my last months here. The house is beautiful. Can't go into too much detail about the house, but there are 77 acres. Very isolated.<br />
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The high today will be 83 with thunderstorms later. Pollen everywhere, even on my keyboard as I type this on my porch.<br />
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My kids and I have been somewhat isolated since we've been here--just a handful of friends and no buddies who are my kids' age. So while the nation hunkers down with self-distancing, believe me when I say we've been doing this for months. We're used to it.<br />
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This is a weird, weird time.<br />
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I have enough poems to put together a new manuscript, which has some of the best work of my life. Mississippi has been nothing but inspiring for me. And I continue to be inspired by its wondrous and tragic sides. This morning I started four new drafts, which I think I'll finish today. I mean, I have an abundance of time.<br />
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We are good. There are worse places to shelter in place. We miss Massachusetts but my hope is that by the time we're ready to return in May, the state has hit its peak. Mississippi is a few weeks behind the curve (in many respects).<br />
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This seems like a good place to stop. More to come. XO<br />
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<br />Januaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036651950996873368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14397387.post-91321920831136473102020-01-04T11:13:00.004-05:002020-01-04T11:14:50.823-05:00All Good Things ...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy 2020!<br />
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For more than 10 years I have LOVED this space. It has been a place of growth and healing. When I think about all the poems discussed, pictures posted, and lists created on this blog--not to mention the Poetry Action Plans--I feel a great sense of pride. The Poet Mom blog has been a virtual home for me. I've documented the growth of my children, the demise of a marriage, and the start of a career.<br />
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But now, it's time to let it go. I'm just not feeling the urge to post regularly. I tend to move toward the things that bring me joy; I think the blog and I have run its course.<br />
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So for now, this will be my last post. I may keep it live, just not updated. Not sure. Will probably decide by end of January.<br />
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To all who have read Poet Mom off and on for years, I love you. Thanks for the support. More important, thanks for putting up with my typos!<br />
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Here's hoping we continue to try again, fail again, fail better. Always. 💗Januaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036651950996873368noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14397387.post-91258575448176774112019-08-22T17:32:00.000-04:002019-08-22T17:32:20.100-04:00Proof of LifeUm, hello? Is this thing on?<br />
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I am writing from the Central Time Zone, as we have officially moved to Oxford, Mississippi for the academic year! And I have to say, Oxford is beautiful. It is a growing, bustling college town. Ole Miss is quite impressive, though the kids and I still don't know where the phrase "Hotty Totty" comes from.<br />
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Everyone here is nice--like, too nice. Not use to it. I like a bit of disdain in my interactions with folks. But seriously, so far so good.<br />
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I'm feeling a little guilty for not keeping up with this space, but now that I'm settled I have the time. So I'm planning on posting weekly. My guilt is outweighed by having an astounding spring book tour! I went to places I really wanted to go, and not a dud in the bunch. I had fun everywhere I went. There were a few venues not on the tour originally, such a a visit to Nigeria (!) and the Salem Poetry Seminar/Salem Arts Fest.<br />
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Reader, I have to tell you, I am shocked I was able to do so many events this spring. Couldn't do it without lots of help at home, and two understanding children.<br />
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I said yes to almost everything. I made it work. 😉<br />
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This past weekend we were at the Mississippi Book Festival, and while my books never showed up, we had a terrific time at the event.<br />
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Now I'm at this residency for nine months, and next week teaching MFA students. This glorious, beautiful space. The hope is to have a book or two finished by the end of my time. I'm feeling quite lucky and blessed these little poems continue to take me where I least expect it.<br />
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<br />Januaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036651950996873368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14397387.post-29409335551644775302019-02-25T05:06:00.000-05:002019-02-25T05:06:06.959-05:00Book Tour - Spring 2019<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9-wVoWc5oENkE9HP3QpEcHs0Hk4dCw6unv4GUVAIKRJFh7i0SyW3-TfytKeuyiUQSoi_QDbkFlXgQVYwZH7mKYvp6Mou0x37hWmxCuGcQBXgeNJ6ZdnOFUMPC0jAYCFgEEOu8/s1600/Rewilding+graphic+Blogger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="712" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9-wVoWc5oENkE9HP3QpEcHs0Hk4dCw6unv4GUVAIKRJFh7i0SyW3-TfytKeuyiUQSoi_QDbkFlXgQVYwZH7mKYvp6Mou0x37hWmxCuGcQBXgeNJ6ZdnOFUMPC0jAYCFgEEOu8/s640/Rewilding+graphic+Blogger.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Look y'all, tour dates! My first book tour. I'm thrilled to be able to support my third book <i><a href="https://cavankerrypress.org/product/rewilding/" target="_blank">Rewilding</a></i>.</div>
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Did I mention my poem, <i><a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2019/02/20/magazine/poem-hoodie.html" target="_blank">Hoodie</a></i>, was in the NYT yesterday? </div>
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I made this graphic. If you can't read it, it's because I need glasses and can't tell if it's blurry or not. (Can't admit needing glasses yet. *Sad.*) </div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">Spring 2019 Dates</span></b></div>
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Feb 25 • Middlesex CC (Lowell, MA)<br />
Mar 1-4 • Betsy Hotel (Miami, FL)<br />
Mar 5 • Plymouth State University (Plymouth, ME) <br />
Mar 7 • Salem State University (Salem, MA) <br />
Mar 18 • Blacksmith House (Cambridge, MA) <br />
Mar 21 • VA Festival of the Book (Charlottesville, VA)<br />
Mar 25 • Evening of Inspired Leaders (Boston, MA)<br />
Mar 27-30 • AWP Conference (Portland, OR)<br />
Apr 3 • Bedlam Book Café (Worcester, MA)<br />
Apr 4 • Mass Poetry Student Day of Poetry (Peabody, MA) <br />
Apr 9 • Milton Public Library (Milton, MA)<br />
Apr 17 • Northwestern Connecticut CC (Winsted, CT)<br />
Apr 18 • Cambridge Public Library (Cambridge, MA) <br />
Apr 22 • Harvard Book Store (Cambridge MA) <br />
Apr 26-27 • Newburyport Lit Fest (Newburyport, MA)<br />
May 7 • Newtonville Books (Newtonville, MA)<br />
May 11 • Ann Hutt Browning Mem. Reading (Ashfield, MA)<br />
May 16-19 • NEYWC at Bread Loaf (Middlebury, VT)<br />
May 19 • Brookline Poetry Series (Brookline, MA) <br />
Jun 4 • First Tuesdays (Jackson Heights, NY)<br />
Jun 6 • Collected Poets Series (Shelburne Falls, MA)<br />
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Want to book me? You can reach me at january@masspoetry.org or jgill27494@aol.com. I check both because I'm old school. </div>
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Januaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036651950996873368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14397387.post-85722330644198445992019-02-24T16:56:00.001-05:002019-02-24T16:56:49.517-05:00Hoodie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie3gbzYq2WVd-WSqqA1cngyoMAuTH0f8gNf3BjxkLm4ihUzemMHos7nwXvHrDkaswuyxSngrUB9vvIN4yd68KCBCdQsRq8t19w-ki9OvAKSrObLJXA9PY_7fG_igYvBDT7AwMi/s1600/IMG_8980.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="478" data-original-width="640" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie3gbzYq2WVd-WSqqA1cngyoMAuTH0f8gNf3BjxkLm4ihUzemMHos7nwXvHrDkaswuyxSngrUB9vvIN4yd68KCBCdQsRq8t19w-ki9OvAKSrObLJXA9PY_7fG_igYvBDT7AwMi/s640/IMG_8980.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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OMG! OMG! OMG! Here I am in <i>The New York Times Magazine </i>next to John Legend! Well, not me so much as my poem, "<a href="https://nyti.ms/2V8vZ1X" target="_blank">Hoodie,</a>" which was selected by Rita Dove for this week's<i> NYTimes Magazine.</i><br />
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Can't tell you how much this little poem means to me. It is my Alex poem, and it addresses a fear I share with many people of color about the safety of our kids, children of color in particular. Seems more relevant now then when I wrote it. He's 15 and looks more adult and child. When I say "be careful" as he leaves the house, it's not him I'm worried about--it's everyone else.<br />
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Needless to say, I'm very thankful that Rita picked <i><a href="https://nyti.ms/2V8vZ1X" target="_blank">Hoodie</a></i>. She's always been an inspiration for me so it just means that much that this poem will reach a wider audience.<br />
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It's like John Legend sat down to read my poem!Januaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036651950996873368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14397387.post-38462102314129598612019-01-23T08:32:00.001-05:002019-02-02T00:03:02.152-05:00The Slowdown<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgQo11ZR_qVfuHJBpBcPNNq4FdY8cLbbdQpvGxZJQYNS8X7x8JQ5WsKD1xswsF9SINnHkkJaFcDPYGaXFNgIhSfo9unT3Ov4wOIxdbrFgd7RLw9nZtowMI2VQjui4I24aOjqM_/s1600/Slowdown_Cover_11_5_3k-1024x1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgQo11ZR_qVfuHJBpBcPNNq4FdY8cLbbdQpvGxZJQYNS8X7x8JQ5WsKD1xswsF9SINnHkkJaFcDPYGaXFNgIhSfo9unT3Ov4wOIxdbrFgd7RLw9nZtowMI2VQjui4I24aOjqM_/s320/Slowdown_Cover_11_5_3k-1024x1024.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Last week, my poem, "<a href="https://www.apmpodcasts.org/slowdown/2019/01/40-kettling/" target="_blank">Kettling</a>" was featured on U.S. Poet Laureate Tracy K. Smith's podcast <i>The Slowdown!</i><br />
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I have known Tracy for a while. Can't remember when we met but maybe it was through Cave Canem.<a href="https://www.loc.gov/poetry/laureate.html" target="_blank"> During her tenure as poet laureate</a>, she has traveled the most rural parts of the United States broadening the audience for poetry. She's amazing. (She has my dream job. There--I've said it.)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCSmYkLxPuegYmvJsAgJOesJvf0_2Qwk63sAIyT1o6fgZnz6vbYkw7ybsqLpJ9Ta076k6XE0ufXOik2IJR9SSxtgOi4FonxL78B8eKbjoBGHougW-4fH0HT6c3tcsPKBnUxqA8/s1600/IMG_8561+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCSmYkLxPuegYmvJsAgJOesJvf0_2Qwk63sAIyT1o6fgZnz6vbYkw7ybsqLpJ9Ta076k6XE0ufXOik2IJR9SSxtgOi4FonxL78B8eKbjoBGHougW-4fH0HT6c3tcsPKBnUxqA8/s320/IMG_8561+%25281%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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So I am very thankful that this poem was chosen. Not the one I would have expected, which makes it all the more special. I never know which poems will resonate with people, and that's the joy of this art.<br />
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<a href="https://www.apmpodcasts.org/slowdown/2019/01/40-kettling/" target="_blank">Listen to the poem.</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho7VavdsaXGwx7T6DDqdGVetaILGVRPslmMz94eBTEUPHzrm1BJ-vNhetA_AAwusZKugzW54sy_8_IF1h_muV_rDJL7ZCe2BIVMRGaBdcdnWgBx7zP4YLrOtoLhCtpQBAYv7Cs/s1600/IMG_8563+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho7VavdsaXGwx7T6DDqdGVetaILGVRPslmMz94eBTEUPHzrm1BJ-vNhetA_AAwusZKugzW54sy_8_IF1h_muV_rDJL7ZCe2BIVMRGaBdcdnWgBx7zP4YLrOtoLhCtpQBAYv7Cs/s320/IMG_8563+%25281%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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And I took the liberty of sharing my poem with my Intro to Poetry class the day it was published. Needless to say, they were pleasantly surprised. We had listened to a few of the episodes (only 5 minutes long), using the poems as prompts. So they were familiar with the format.<br />
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Woo hoo!Januaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036651950996873368noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14397387.post-89754166862745080232019-01-14T17:45:00.001-05:002019-01-14T19:35:08.861-05:00By the Book<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiuZ-XbkmlUJ3VBU-yaBZ9u23fy2I-UdVuZXZhliZuf8cskDBW7IWH3CrW38Vyou9goEHXLIItAoH_o7xOGhhklcnML7Fl4ChV_W-NtbeUCAELkUBRbr2qySJJfKLnVo1ytYHo/s1600/BLOG+BADGE+2019+Poetry+Blogging+Network.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiuZ-XbkmlUJ3VBU-yaBZ9u23fy2I-UdVuZXZhliZuf8cskDBW7IWH3CrW38Vyou9goEHXLIItAoH_o7xOGhhklcnML7Fl4ChV_W-NtbeUCAELkUBRbr2qySJJfKLnVo1ytYHo/s320/BLOG+BADGE+2019+Poetry+Blogging+Network.jpg" width="228" /> </a></div>
January. The coldest month of the year. Fortunately, there's no snow on the ground yet in my neck of the woods.<br />
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So I am part of the <a href="https://ofkells.blogspot.com/2018/12/whos-in-setting-up-poetry-blogging.html" target="_blank">Poetry Blogging Network</a>. My goal is to try to blog a few times a month. And I need to get more pictures in this space.<br />
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My book <i>Rewilding </i>was reviewed in the <i><a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/entertainment/books/these-new-voices-in-poetry-should-make-us-sit-up-and-listen/2019/01/08/48d3b702-03c8-11e9-9122-82e98f91ee6f_story.html?utm_term=.fc7b9c764b84" target="_blank">Washington Post</a></i>! Can't tell you what a little review like that means to an indie book. Most of the poets I know are constantly hustling to get their book in front of readers. I am thankful for this tiny piece of recognition. Here's hoping the momentum builds into something more.<br />
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Not to be outdone, here's a lovely piece from Joey Phoenix at Creative Collective<i>:</i> “'<a href="https://www.creativenorthshore.com/2018/12/30/when-we-fly-we-find-our-fire-reading-january-gill-oneils-rewilding/" target="_blank">When We Fly, We Find Our Fire.</a>' – Reading January Gill O’Neil’s Rewilding"<br />
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Have you ever wondered what it costs to be a poet? This year, I am tracking my readings: earnings (or lack thereof), expenses, book sales, etc. in an Excel spreadsheet.<br />
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Now, I've always done a bit of that for tax purposes. But what does it really cost to travel to a reading, not receive any payment, and sell one or two books? I'm keeping the numbers and making comments about each activity. I really want to know how much the effort is worth in the life cycle of a poetry collection. Here are some questions I want to know in the first year of a book's publication:<br />
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1. Of the books I bring to readings, how many do I sell?<br />
2. Will I peak in sales in my region, but decline towards year's end? How can I counteract that?<br />
3. How many readings do I participate in annually? How many free readings?<br />
4. If I cover travel and expenses, does that cancel out the stipend?<br />
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Put aside that poetry is an art, and it is a privilege to participate in this community. I'm looking at the numbers.<br />
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Will update you in a few months. April seems appropriate. <br />
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<br />Januaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036651950996873368noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14397387.post-71283155669510083552018-12-28T06:00:00.000-05:002018-12-28T08:02:03.946-05:00Poetry Action Plan 2019<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmI7sYlUL6zdSy9SQyhnYyG3xEhNRy5Ie3wJF8gDyAQOn1-gaAS1dlCksOETEQOoZtl9x7SBEEFjcEwbxkU0j5mPUH8k4d5FDDtqM59p55aT6xU4AKeMLN5CBEYH7Vj4Nh1i4g/s1600/2019+stock+photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmI7sYlUL6zdSy9SQyhnYyG3xEhNRy5Ie3wJF8gDyAQOn1-gaAS1dlCksOETEQOoZtl9x7SBEEFjcEwbxkU0j5mPUH8k4d5FDDtqM59p55aT6xU4AKeMLN5CBEYH7Vj4Nh1i4g/s320/2019+stock+photo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 18px;">OMG, is it time for a Poetry Action Plan? Why, yes. Yes it is!</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><b>What, you may ask, is a Poetry Action Plan, or
PAP? </b></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">It is a road map for how to think about your writing life. I have created a plan for the past 11 years and it has served me well--even in the years when I didn't think I needed a plan. </span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">There are four
steps to creating a PAP. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Define your goals. What
is most important to you as a writer?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Be realistic about what
can you achieve.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Track your progress.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Prepare for setbacks BUT
be open to opportunities wherever they appear.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">And if I had to add a
fifth step, I’d say <b>don’t be too hard on yourself </b>for not accomplishing a goal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">As I have mentioned, Last year, after dealing
with the death of my ex-husband at the end of 2016, I was just trying to stay
above water. We were used to our little system of pick ups and drop offs. And
while I never thought I had enough time, I really missed (and still miss), the
balance of another parent, for everything from child care to having another
voice in the room. But I managed, somehow, to get a few things done.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">In 2019, I will:</span></b></div>
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<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 18px;"><i>Get ready to move to Mississippi!</i></span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 18px;"> I had this as last on my list, but really, this is Job 1. <a href="https://poetmom.blogspot.com/2018/11/the-haps.html">The kids and I are moving this summer to Ole Miss</a> for nine months. So all of my energy is going to making the transition as smooth as possible. *Gulp*</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Write a poem a week.</span></i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"> I didn't write very much in 2018. It was painful not writing, but I just never found my groove. This is just a part in the evolution of my process, I tell myself as I wallow in a pool of self pity. But, it's time to get back to basics. <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Submit to eight top-tier journals.</span></i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"> Believe it or not, I sent poems to three journals. Still waiting to hear back from two. I was asked to submit a few places. Admittedly, I regret not writing or sending out in 2018. Won't make that mistake again. </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><i>Help Rewilding find the widest audience possible. <a href="https://www.blogger.com/goog_33226474">See my last post</a></i><a href="http://./">.</a></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">Laugh more.</li>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p>My<a href="https://poetmom.blogspot.com/2018/01/poetry-action-plan-2018.html"> 2018</a> and <a href="https://poetmom.blogspot.com/2017/01/poetry-action-plan-2017.html">2017</a> lists are available for viewing. </o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Normally, I would add squishy goals to my realistic ones. But moving to Mississippi is a huge challenge. I'm really seeking a balance between good and bad stress. What things can I put aside to make time for the things that really matter?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Good luck with your PAP!</span></i><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />Januaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036651950996873368noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14397387.post-73264093009458811412018-12-27T07:26:00.001-05:002018-12-27T07:31:37.968-05:00A Little Help from My Friends<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI53E32iNPVnigncGVCAe9Ocs3vKtXSteJrL54FPulH_3GmhgjTZ-2kB3qzPP2S8E2hl8Bg6uZZVILhrKS05t5npIYeIJAD2GWoeQvkU6nkyPvhbxSHyR0NwJEQTE_tof_ea3G/s1600/Rewilding_cvrlowres.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="432" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI53E32iNPVnigncGVCAe9Ocs3vKtXSteJrL54FPulH_3GmhgjTZ-2kB3qzPP2S8E2hl8Bg6uZZVILhrKS05t5npIYeIJAD2GWoeQvkU6nkyPvhbxSHyR0NwJEQTE_tof_ea3G/s320/Rewilding_cvrlowres.jpg" width="207" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #222222;">I’m so
excited that <a href="https://cavankerrypress.org/product/rewilding/" target="_blank"><i>Rewilding</i></a></span><span style="color: black;">, my third collection with CavanKerry Press, has been in the world
for almost two months and so far, the early reviews are good. And by reviews, I
mean “likes,” blog posts, pictures, and quoted lines—which feels like a virtual
hug! </span><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: black;">But it’s challenging for
an indie poetry book to get any attention these days. That’s why I’m asking for
your help. My goal is to generate more interest in <i style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: 100%; overflow: visible;">Rewilding </i>to ring in 2019.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: black;">Here’s
what you can do to help as we celebrate the New Year. </span><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: black;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: black;">1.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: 100%;"></span><span style="color: black; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="color: black;">Buy the book as a gift—for
yourself or a friend! (</span><span style="color: #222222;"><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://cavankerrypress.org/product/rewilding/&source=gmail&ust=1545941182940000&usg=AFQjCNGYf1QNbPu63qguzhVnEVxMgGxJYg" href="https://cavankerrypress.org/product/rewilding/" target="_blank">it’s
20% off</a></span><span style="color: black;">
at CavanKerry Press) </span><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: black;">2.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: 100%;"></span><span style="color: black; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="color: black;">Post a picture of the
cover on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram (and tag me!)</span><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: black;">3.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: 100%;"></span><span style="color: black; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="color: black;">Quote a line or stanza
from one of my poems on social media</span><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: black;">4.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: 100%;"></span><span style="color: black; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="color: black;">Ask your local library to
order a copy </span><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: black;">5.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: 100%;"></span><span style="color: black; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="color: black;">Write a mini review on </span><span style="color: #222222;"><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.amazon.com/Rewilding-January-Gill-ONeil/dp/1933880686&source=gmail&ust=1545941182940000&usg=AFQjCNHmRR3jN56nczfA01phRr6Z7m_Ksg" href="https://www.amazon.com/Rewilding-January-Gill-ONeil/dp/1933880686" target="_blank">Amazon*,</a></span><span style="color: black;"> </span><span style="color: #222222;"><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/rewilding-january-gill-oneil/1128272813%23/&source=gmail&ust=1545941182940000&usg=AFQjCNED_Aa08tgN20AU1QeONVhK6xHhUw" href="https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/rewilding-january-gill-oneil/1128272813#/" target="_blank">Barnes
& Noble</a></span><span style="color: black;">,
</span><span style="color: #222222;"><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3006271.January_Gill_O_Neil&source=gmail&ust=1545941182940000&usg=AFQjCNGdhhvJXFkMNcrjrOdbILb2ez5qBA" href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3006271.January_Gill_O_Neil" target="_blank">Goodreads</a></span><span style="color: black;">, blogs, newsletters, etc.
Even a few kind words will make a difference.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: black;">6.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: 100%;"></span><span style="color: black; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="color: black;">Let me know of any
opportunities to find new audiences (websites, reading venues, bookstores,
classrooms, etc.)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">*As of 12/27, Amazon says it’s out of print. It may be sold
out (!), but it is definitely available from CavanKerry Press.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: black;">Thank
you to those who have gone the extra mile already. I really do appreciate it.
We’re all so crazed around the holidays, but the next weeks and months are
crucial for getting</span><span style="color: #222222;"><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://cavankerrypress.org/product/rewilding/&source=gmail&ust=1545941182940000&usg=AFQjCNGYf1QNbPu63qguzhVnEVxMgGxJYg" href="https://cavankerrypress.org/product/rewilding/" target="_blank">
<i>Rewilding</i></a></span><i style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: 100%; overflow: visible;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></i><span style="color: black;">into the hands of poets
and poetry lovers. And, if Oprah calls … </span><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: black;">Thank you from
the bottom of my heart.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: black;">Happy Holidays!</span><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />Januaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036651950996873368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14397387.post-63642800467025284182018-12-18T10:27:00.000-05:002018-12-18T10:40:50.484-05:00Lucky<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDANwOc71yxMIe0OqG-8ft0WJ78yvtdPcX7OY9QuvxAdw_tMLKfVuCMsfOwCBgO0epGfNjMs8fAaYYY6lHNK6CWy_fiTutcWlDb9WGeiHafXhf1gt_5UvHqKZgHKpyqIeknVpT/s1600/IMG_8145.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDANwOc71yxMIe0OqG-8ft0WJ78yvtdPcX7OY9QuvxAdw_tMLKfVuCMsfOwCBgO0epGfNjMs8fAaYYY6lHNK6CWy_fiTutcWlDb9WGeiHafXhf1gt_5UvHqKZgHKpyqIeknVpT/s320/IMG_8145.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Yesterday, I met up with poet-friend for lunch. After our long, lingering afternoon over pasta and good bread, he reminded me how lucky we are to do what we do.<br />
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With the silly season upon us, it's easy for me to forget how lucky we are. We write, teach, and are supported by a community who lifts us up. It's easy to get caught in a spiral of doubts when you're in the middle of your own anxiety.<br />
<br />
I spend a fair amount of time in my own cave worried about everything, from our joke-of-a-president and climate change to wondering if my kids have enough money to buy a snack for school. Sometimes just having a friend state the obvious is enough for me to snap back into reality. So while I complain about grading the work of my fabulous students, or sigh when someone who clearly earned an award gets one and I don't (yep, I do that occasionally--and then I move on), or moan about a seemingly endless cycle of kid drop-offs and pickups, I never want to forget how lucky I am that I get to write poetry for a living.<br />
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I used the word "unsinkable" to describe myself after my divorce, and I guess that's how I think of myself. But if I had to pick a few more words, I would also say that I am grateful and extremely lucky to have this life. I wouldn't trade a thing.<br />
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<br />
There is a review of <i><a href="https://solsticelitmag.org/content/review-rewilding-by-january-gill-oneil/" target="_blank">Rewilding</a></i> at <i>Solstice</i> written by the beautiful and talented Jennifer Martelli. And, <a href="https://solsticelitmag.org/content/five-questions-for-poet-jennifer-martelli/" target="_blank">there's a terrific interview of Jennife</a>r by Richard Hoffman in the same issue. Check it out!<br />
<br />
Also, thanks to the beautiful and talented Susan Rich for this mini-review: "<a href="https://thealchemistskitchen.blogspot.com/2018/12/best-holiday-present-for-poets.html" target="_blank">Best Holiday Present for Poets: Rewilding by January Gill O'Neil</a>"<br />
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<br />Januaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036651950996873368noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14397387.post-64335363190473319482018-12-01T19:23:00.000-05:002018-12-01T19:25:19.147-05:00Submittathon!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv0kQyEpzIT7La0QCMAHlw5PGAJHApxCAl6-6UQ9F69DhnwVtCCx1yP4WUxHtGfMXEIYLwqpQrC9frX4RGgZlIZgJXYcqU3KytcuhkGK3hAOCPkxmCOSZ47AI-zU_wtdqC54sC/s1600/IMG_7986.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv0kQyEpzIT7La0QCMAHlw5PGAJHApxCAl6-6UQ9F69DhnwVtCCx1yP4WUxHtGfMXEIYLwqpQrC9frX4RGgZlIZgJXYcqU3KytcuhkGK3hAOCPkxmCOSZ47AI-zU_wtdqC54sC/s320/IMG_7986.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Today after a long hiatus, I submitted poems at a Submittathon. MP Carver set us up for 9 a.m.-1 p.m. She describes the group-sending of poems and stories as "a community event designed to get Salem State voices and creative works out into the publishing world. We'll have people there to help first timers learn the ins and outs of submitting (including cover letters, finding journals, etc). For those with experience submitting work for publication, it's a dedicated time to focus on sending out your work. There will be snacks and prizes as well!" Jill McDonough is the first poet I know to do this. We're just following in her literary footsteps.<br />
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I was on the early side, but 12 people showed up with laptops and poems to send their poems into the world. This is the second time I've participated. The first time (in May, or was it last December?), I didn't have anything to submit. I'm coming off of one of the worst writing droughts I've ever had. As someone who likes to grind it out, I think I've written maybe 20 poems in two years. My math may be off, however. When I look at my Poetry 2018 file, there are at least 50 poems. I have enough for a terrible manuscript. But I do have a few gems that need a little polish. Just getting them into the light is a big step.<br />
<br />
Despite the end-of-the-year grading crush, I am making time to write. I'm starting to feel like my old poetic self, so to speak. Flow is still illusive for me, but there's something honest and holy about putting my butt in a chair, and not getting up until I have a sad little draft.<br />
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Januaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036651950996873368noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14397387.post-79692516733731450172018-11-30T17:51:00.003-05:002018-12-28T08:05:29.644-05:00The Haps<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKabi9RNmc_yWckCjDLV87enZdnEyY294LHFy4HIu8fRuKUTtlKeGf_s3JexfTdMcg2CyKy8Pl72mkTY2f-9cnNOI435kN4lrz0cKXCaCLijAPYZXLpEI2z9nOOONmRUZw3Jcq/s1600/Old+Miss+Graphic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKabi9RNmc_yWckCjDLV87enZdnEyY294LHFy4HIu8fRuKUTtlKeGf_s3JexfTdMcg2CyKy8Pl72mkTY2f-9cnNOI435kN4lrz0cKXCaCLijAPYZXLpEI2z9nOOONmRUZw3Jcq/s320/Old+Miss+Graphic.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is happening!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There is so much happening right now I can barely keep up. During December, I will update the blog regularly; although, admittedly, it's due for an overhaul. Forgive the bullet points. My December posts will be more nuanced and less informational.<br />
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<ul>
<li>I have been awarded the <a href="https://mfaenglish.olemiss.edu/john-and-renee-grisham-writers-in-residence/" target="_blank">John and Renee Grisham residency f</a>or 2019-2020! </li>
<li>I have stepped down as executive director of the Mass Poetry Festival and have transitioned to Mass Poetry's board of directors. </li>
<li>I'm up for tenure. </li>
<li>And, <i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Rewilding-January-Gill-ONeil/dp/1933880686" target="_blank">Rewilding </a></i>is in the world!</li>
</ul>
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<br />
And, here are a few places you can find me on the web:</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://artsake.massculturalcouncil.org/january-gill-oneil-rewilding/" target="_blank">ArtSake blog</a> with the Massachusetts Cultural Council</li>
<li><a href="https://blog.bestamericanpoetry.com/the_best_american_poetry/2018/11/an-interview-with-january-gill-oneil-by-nin-andrews.html" target="_blank">Best American Poetry</a></li>
<li><a href="https://wgcu.org/3ss-episode-37-siwc/" target="_blank">Three Song Stories </a>podcast</li>
</ul>
<div>
Phew! </div>
</div>
Januaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036651950996873368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14397387.post-78682214238463816762018-09-22T15:29:00.001-04:002018-09-22T15:29:30.093-04:00Rewilding is here!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc7T30_6F51v0jDLPYvDqePF3zIwgY4dkB49Var4bEyVBheYqfv3pDLF3hKC16mgVpMCRihtWBnO_cktiicWGR8E_4xhJct3cmZG-Azn2DRRyMwviZGBIRe9IMySZxWttrxGeP/s1600/IMG_6878.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc7T30_6F51v0jDLPYvDqePF3zIwgY4dkB49Var4bEyVBheYqfv3pDLF3hKC16mgVpMCRihtWBnO_cktiicWGR8E_4xhJct3cmZG-Azn2DRRyMwviZGBIRe9IMySZxWttrxGeP/s320/IMG_6878.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
It's here! <a href="https://cavankerrypress.org/product/rewilding/" target="_blank"><i>Rewilding </i></a>is here and in print. The release date is November 6, but it is a real thing. I am thrilled. CavanKerry did a nice job on book #3.<br />
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<a href="https://cavankerrypress.org/product/rewilding/" target="_blank"><i>Rewilding</i> is available for preorder</a>.<br />
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I'm sitting at my favorite spot in Starbucks trying to get organized. Not writing. But today after so many months I decided to upload something new on the blog. I think I'm officially switching to a Website with the option of blogging. It's clear that I don't have the time or energy to keep it up like I should. Time to move forward. There are so many things on my radar, so many changes I won't go through right now. I'll certainly post now and then. I have to update my fall schedule, dates, etc.<br />
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Today is the equinox. Summer is over. Could not be sadder about that.<br />
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OK a few things. We adopted a puppy. I'm up for tenure. Some festival changes happening. And next year I'm moving to Mississippi for a year with the kids and said puppy. All of these items require their own blog post.<br />
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<br />
Did I mention <a href="https://cavankerrypress.org/product/rewilding/" target="_blank"><i>Rewilding</i> is available for preorder</a>?<br />
<br />Januaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036651950996873368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14397387.post-71067070418643717352018-07-18T07:07:00.000-04:002018-07-18T07:07:00.871-04:00Rewilding available for presale!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXc5RTLM0rtdVfio02rFlyTtoBjneSJWZIdxTk61Ko3FYcxYpbAXCBa55HGlpa2F0-S__wParCN-J2NwjEa7pyQgdUvS5bmGPVbz1rKVQDcy2glT7TNDCyvFnxZDe93GsIGwFe/s1600/Rewilding_cvrlowres.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="432" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXc5RTLM0rtdVfio02rFlyTtoBjneSJWZIdxTk61Ko3FYcxYpbAXCBa55HGlpa2F0-S__wParCN-J2NwjEa7pyQgdUvS5bmGPVbz1rKVQDcy2glT7TNDCyvFnxZDe93GsIGwFe/s320/Rewilding_cvrlowres.jpg" width="207" /></a></div>
Hello, beautiful!<br />
<br />
My third collection, Rewilding, is now available for presale!<br />
<br />
Order it early and have it arrive at your door in November.<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>Rewilding</i><br />
January Gill O'Neil<br />
The list price is $16.00,<b><span style="color: red;"> but get it for $12.80 and save 20%! </span></b><br />
<br />
<a href="https://cavankerrypress.org/product/rewilding/" target="_blank">Order directly from CavanKerry Press.</a><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: stm45;">Rewilding, a relatively new ecological term, means to return an area of land to its original state. Reveling in letting go of the damaged and broken parts of ourselves while celebrating renewal and new beginnings, O’Neil’s poetry examines the external worlds of race and culture and the internal, personal worlds of family and desire. Ultimately, these poems tap into what is wild and good in all of us</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: stm45;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: stm45;"><span style="background-color: white;"><a href="https://cavankerrypress.org/product/rewilding/" target="_blank">Order your copy of <i>Rewilding </i>today</a>!</span></span>Januaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036651950996873368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14397387.post-21452803680269532602018-02-27T10:33:00.002-05:002018-02-27T11:02:17.523-05:00Tampa, baby!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBUnooi2w7YlWvxK1PLSHAQ1igpFYGIY2yWBexG9cQjrzymG14Ghoz2MseU8kPJYlrUcZPWh4XCA6JYZlaS116cVweRi5Qt8FV1P8Vj4o9XIsLka4VgZdyw9ZsIoFSVI45B4qW/s1600/IMG_3516.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBUnooi2w7YlWvxK1PLSHAQ1igpFYGIY2yWBexG9cQjrzymG14Ghoz2MseU8kPJYlrUcZPWh4XCA6JYZlaS116cVweRi5Qt8FV1P8Vj4o9XIsLka4VgZdyw9ZsIoFSVI45B4qW/s320/IMG_3516.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I am 75% packed for the <a href="https://www.awpwriter.org/awp_conference/overview" target="_blank">AWP Conference in Tampa</a> next week. Why am I packed so early? It looks like it will be 80 degrees, and I need shoes!<br />
<br />
I’m a planner. More important, I’m psyched for the trip! The suitcase becomes a visual reminder that I get to run away for a week and be with my poetry peeps!<br />
<br />
My involvement with AWP the organization has changed over the years. I vaguely remember <a href="https://www.awpwriter.org/magazine_media/writers_news_view/2870/the_awpodu_years_occasional_grace" target="_blank">the early days when it was based in Norfolk, VA at my alma mater Old Dominion University</a> (late 80s). I *think* I may have even crossed paths with Executive Direction David Fenza way back when. My first conference was New Orleans-- probably not the best place for a first timer. All I remember is Pat O's.<br />
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For the heck of it, I looked up the<a href="https://www.awpwriter.org/awp_conference/archive/List/overview" target="_blank"> previous conferences</a>. These are the ones I've attended.<br />
<br />
2002: New Orleans, Louisiana<br />
2003: Baltimore, Maryland<br />
<i>*babies!*</i><br />
2007: Atlanta, Georgia<br />
2008: New York, New York<br />
2010: Denver Colorado<br />
2011: Washington, DC<br />
2013: Boston, Massachusetts<br />
2014: Seattle, Washington<br />
2015: Minneapolis, Minnesota<br />
2016: Los Angeles, California<br />
2017: Washington, DC<br />
TAMPA! <br />
<br />
I have a thing about attending Midwest conferences during the winter. That changed, of course, with Minneapolis.<br />
<br />
Atlanta was special. That year, I took my 9-month-old daughter, and it was the last time I spent time with <a href="https://www.poetryfoundation.org/harriet/2007/04/phebus-etienne-is-dead" target="_blank">Phebus Etienne</a>. She passed away soon after. All of them have their own unique vibe. I can tell you chapter and verse about the weird joy-- the strange magic--of each conference.<br />
<br />
From MFA student, to novice writer, to emerging poet, to published author, to professor/exec director, to board member, it’s been quite a ride. My relationship with AWP has outlived my marriage, a few jobs, and my favorite pair of jeans.<br />
<br />
I approach every conference with a goal, otherwise the conference becomes overwhelming. Here's my plan:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Map out my schedule the night before</li>
<li>Exercise early, like crack-of-dawn early (read: <i>rooftop pool</i>)</li>
<li>30-minute freewrite, every damn day</li>
<li>Pack provisions: extra cords and chargers, water bottle, pens, business cards, Kind bars, hand sanitizer, mints, tea bags.</li>
<li>Go to at one session a day, at least</li>
<li>Hit the book fair in the morning, when everyone is fresh</li>
<li>Find an hour of time midday to unplug/step in the sun</li>
<li>Figure out where the bathrooms off the beaten path are</li>
<li>Go to one or two off-sites in the evening</li>
<li>Say hi to EVERYONE!</li>
<li>Don’t stay out too late (this will be hard)</li>
</ul>
Saying hi to everyone is most important to me. What can I say? I crave connection, now more than ever.<br />
<br />
For the past two years, I’ve been so focused on board duties (because I want to do a good job), and Mass Poetry work (because I want to do a good job), that I didn’t do half of the things on this list last year or the previous year. Not this time.<br />
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I will wrap up grading and Mass Poetry work before the conference (yahoo!), which is why my suitcase is packed one week in advance. Just one less thing to think about.<br />
<br />
If you see me in the halls or sessions or book fair, please say hello.<br />
<br />
See you in Tampa!Januaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036651950996873368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14397387.post-73605116709686892832018-02-06T23:00:00.000-05:002018-02-07T06:49:09.910-05:00Confession Tuesday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVgmzgVOXnGHjz50rK_xkT8tfr15qCcysV2qcNdemzDa877tnC-ugnb7zqjmpLBMz74M6zB3JFyGRe9-1qMoDcgu8El-rqhHs8t6YLsewPFaBI7xTSbhdiAkUisIWri8otg8St/s1600/IMG_6702.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVgmzgVOXnGHjz50rK_xkT8tfr15qCcysV2qcNdemzDa877tnC-ugnb7zqjmpLBMz74M6zB3JFyGRe9-1qMoDcgu8El-rqhHs8t6YLsewPFaBI7xTSbhdiAkUisIWri8otg8St/s320/IMG_6702.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
I posted this pic a few weeks ago on Instagram and Twitter and it went viral (I own the photo), which is very cool. Nothing I do goes viral. Ever.<br />
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It's been a busy few weeks. Between planning for this year's Mass Poetry Festival, classes, and a few teaching gigs, I've been on the go. I have just enough work to do to make me feel stretched but not stresses. That's the right mix for me.<br />
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Did I mention I was a finalist for the <a href="http://www.massculturalcouncil.org/programs/fellows_funding.asp">Mass Cultural Council's Artist Fellowship</a>? Woo hoo!<br />
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My son sprained his wrist during a basketball game this past weekend. Took a hard fowl. He's fine. Glad it's not broken. It's our first sports injury. Hope it's the last.<br />
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And my writing seems to be coming back on line. It's slow going, but I'm making an effort to write every opportunity I can. And I've been writing when my students write. Just that shift in priorities is making a difference.<br />
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We're at the one-month mark for AWP Tampa! I can't wait. In a few days, I will post my thoughts on how to survive the conference. Everyone has their own method for navigating the maze of writers and books. By the end, I'm always exhausted but grateful I made the effort to go. Being with my peeps means the world to me, and that's my priority. <a href="https://www.awpwriter.org/awp_conference/schedule_overview">Check out the schedule.</a> More to come.<br />
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In my local circle of writer friends, it seems as if they (we) are having various levels of success. I see them once a week and always someone has good news to share, no matter how small. What is it like in your neck of the woods? Do you have a writers' community, and if so, what's it like for your group? I will expand in a future post.<br />
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I've been slow to blog and even slower to respond. I need to schedule a weekly time to check out others on the blog tour. My apology for my slow response.<br />
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More poetry is needed.<br />
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<br />Januaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036651950996873368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14397387.post-76208323328253572032018-01-23T22:44:00.002-05:002018-01-23T22:49:35.348-05:00Legacy<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<div dir="ltr" lang="en">
Backstage on Inauguration Day! We’re just moments away from the inauguration of <a href="https://twitter.com/SalemStatePres?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SalemStatePres</a> John Keenan. <a href="https://t.co/yZtwK9VEVQ">pic.twitter.com/yZtwK9VEVQ</a></div>
— Salem State (@SalemState) <a href="https://twitter.com/SalemState/status/954428261731270656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script><br />
This is me last Friday at the inauguration of Salem State's 14th president, John Keenan. I, along with EJ Calderon '18, were asked to write poems to commemorate the occasion.<br />
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Rewind to January 12, one week before the ceremony, when I was struggling to get the words on paper. If you've ever written or read an occasional poem, you know how difficult it can be to tap into the mood of the moment. Like many campuses, we've had our share of racial tension. And, I was working on this inspirational poem in the middle of Trump's "sh*thole" controversy. Ugh.<br />
<br />
But with the help of a few close poet-friends, <a href="https://www.salemstate.edu/news/legacy-poem-professor-january-gill-oneil">I wrote this poem</a>, which is not perfect, but maybe it was (is) the right poem at the right time. (Read <a href="https://www.salemstate.edu/news/boundless-poem-ej-calderon-18">EJ Calderon'</a>s poem.)<br />
<br />
Writing an inauguration poem wasn't as hard as I thought it would be. Once I sat down to do it, I had a moment of clarity about my process: I am a procrastinator. I spend too much time worrying about time lost when I should except this is where I am and get on with it. And that's what I did. I wrote it in a day and took three more to revise. You can make the case that I had been writing it in my head all along, but pressure is part of my process. When the poem was done, I felt relieved in a "mission accomplished" sort of way. Woo hoo!<br />
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The day itself was lovely; it was a nice break in the routine. Lots of pomp and circumstance. I've never seen the gym look so good! So many colleagues were there in the audience, along with the leadership from other colleges, government officials, alumni, and students. My hope is renewed as we move toward an environment of innovation and inclusiveness. I'm just grateful that my poem will a part of the school's history. <br />
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(<a href="https://www.salemstate.edu/news/legacy-poem-professor-january-gill-oneil">Read my poem "Legacy."</a>)Januaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036651950996873368noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14397387.post-54766925356230402312018-01-16T18:28:00.000-05:002018-01-17T18:32:09.370-05:00Confession Tuesday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM8se80QwjCycY9HzjtdhXlowiWjfkfVtskbYLQWmVs2xA4SG0GO_K9_mRnA8XG8g7xpb8LilVp7CQJ3HtbY7XKa9MTH6owE0Y1Qk2abw51DhEM8NgRKbk2_XnF1ZSA1ShPtOX/s1600/IMG_8901.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="428" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM8se80QwjCycY9HzjtdhXlowiWjfkfVtskbYLQWmVs2xA4SG0GO_K9_mRnA8XG8g7xpb8LilVp7CQJ3HtbY7XKa9MTH6owE0Y1Qk2abw51DhEM8NgRKbk2_XnF1ZSA1ShPtOX/s320/IMG_8901.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
Happy Confession Tuesday!<br />
<br />
(I confess I'm posting on Wednesday.)<br />
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<br />
Ella and I went swimming tonight (technically, last night). Those who know me know I am not a strong swimmer. I tell people that in an emergency, I could save myself but not anyone else. Fortunately, my kids are part fish--especially Ella, whose legs are sticking out of the water in the photo.<br />
<br />
This year, I am trying get more comfortable in the water, so our plan is to go to the Y pool once a week while Alex, my son, is at basketball practice. Well, last night all of the shallow lanes were in use for the youth synchronized swim team--they literally looked like a school of fish bobbing in unison. Ella and I swam in the deep end. As soon as I jumped in to the 7' lane, I knew I still had a long way to go to be completely comfortable in water.<br />
<br />
Nothing bad happened. I didn't struggle or drown, but I also didn't swim freestyle. And it was clear I can't dog-paddle. I'm most comfortable swimming on my back, but the thought of 1) not being able to see underwater (won't open my eyes) and 2) not being able to touch the bottom made me feel vulnerable and downright foolish. But we stayed. I swam with a kick board most of the time while my daughter swam freestyle in the 10' lane like a champ. <br />
<br />
Now, I've always lived by the water. Can't imagine living without water to my left. But, I carry those stereotypical fears that African-Americans have about swimming. I'm glad my kids don't have the same hangups.<br />
<br />
Ella and I will be back at the pool next week. She loves it and doesn't mind swimming in winter. There are enough YouTube videos for me to learn a basic stroke and practice in the pool. Each time I'm in the water, I get a little more comfortable working muscles that never see the light of day. Here's hoping that by years end, I'm able to swim freestyle to the other side.Januaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036651950996873368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14397387.post-5159617547202653172018-01-09T10:54:00.001-05:002018-01-09T11:00:22.717-05:00Confession Tuesday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaqCV1thKo_VgpSvIkABIxFeAFyJnDGq27P3zjaFw-sMe5WNEV5YceTlWrpVAXOOUwxsrIQs-TLwlMc89524XbNGs_xg0opS_xp_YlIrsty9MUS39_CfUAZipp4ASqQI1x_U0w/s1600/IMG_3119.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaqCV1thKo_VgpSvIkABIxFeAFyJnDGq27P3zjaFw-sMe5WNEV5YceTlWrpVAXOOUwxsrIQs-TLwlMc89524XbNGs_xg0opS_xp_YlIrsty9MUS39_CfUAZipp4ASqQI1x_U0w/s320/IMG_3119.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Happy Tuesday, folks!<br />
<br />
This is a picture from last Friday's bomb cyclone. The <a href="https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/bombogenesis.html">bombogenesis</a> left us with 15" of snow--a respectable amount for New England's first major snowstorm of the new year. Fortunately we did not lose power from the high winds. We did, however, gain two snow days, also known as two days I should have been more productive but wasn't.<br />
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Woke up yesterday and today at 3 a.m. with that feeling of dread. Usually occurs when I have work do to and I don't want to do it, even when I know getting it done will make my life infinitely better. Hate that feeling. Hate not sleeping even more.<br />
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My campus goes back to school after the MLK Jr. holiday. So this week is about getting organized, doing my class prep, and fitting in some fun activities just for me. My desk looks the same as last week. Ugh.<br />
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****<br />
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I have not written any poems (maybe a few fits and starts here and there). But, I'm looking at drafts from 2017 to see what I want to bring into 2018 as completed poems. And, as you can see, I do have some blog posts under my belt. That counts as writing. I'm not completely creatively dead inside.<br />
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The biggest thing I can do for myself is not be too hard on myself. I was super-productive in my 30s and early 40s. Now, the hunger I had is just not there. I've always overproduced, yet these days I'm much more interested in conserving my energy for the long hall. Is it just a matter of getting older, or do I have more things to think about and less brain space? Maybe it's winter? All of the above?<br />
<br />
I'm fascinated by the nature of creativity. Hoping to schedule a little more time to read about productivity, motivation, and how creatives stay creative.<br />
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<b>What's your top tip for keeping the creative juices flowing?</b>Januaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036651950996873368noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14397387.post-88344406504847608422018-01-02T20:20:00.001-05:002018-01-02T20:20:57.084-05:00Confession Tuesday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgia9WWYVaLxgSrzMdgU1sAAtbamJfiO-vHjTbBLGeeFWOvinFAfRghJaQxFAhD-Nauqcq_ub3UHQhRZ9P_HpJvYjT9dYvLg95VBttLrjF9ZuXWh5BXu4Sy3zeiuql26TOEGSjF/s1600/IMG_3079.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgia9WWYVaLxgSrzMdgU1sAAtbamJfiO-vHjTbBLGeeFWOvinFAfRghJaQxFAhD-Nauqcq_ub3UHQhRZ9P_HpJvYjT9dYvLg95VBttLrjF9ZuXWh5BXu4Sy3zeiuql26TOEGSjF/s320/IMG_3079.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
2018 is the year I question everything I have taken for granted. I’m trying to be as honest and open as possible.<br />
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Here's something I really shouldn't confess. This is my writing desk. I should take a fire hose and rinse it all away. I haven't used it as an actual writing space in years. It still functions as a work space, just not a writing space, and certainly not one that inspires. But I will take clean it off and post a picture next week.<br />
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I'm all FREAKED OUT about this <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/capital-weather-gang/wp/2018/01/02/monster-storm-to-blast-east-coast-before-polar-vortex-uncorks-tremendous-cold-late-this-week/?utm_term=.152df278a7c1" target="_blank">super storm </a>that's supposed to hit on Thursday. I'm used to lots of snow. I live in New England, after all. But the threat of high winds and snow and power outages scare me to no end.<br />
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Just before Christmas our Guinea pig passed away. Her name was S'mores and she was sweet! She stayed at a friend's house while we were out of town, but she became ill, I guess. Details are sketchy. The kids and I took her to the vet but by then it was too late. I miss hearing the random rattling from the cage, and her penchant for snuggling close to my neck. She was 5 years old, I think. You can never be sure with Guinea pigs.<br />
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I confess, I'm happy to be sharing my secrets again. Thanks, <a href="http://poetmom.blogspot.com/2017/12/2018-revival-tour.html" target="">Blog Tour,</a> for giving me the push. When I’m in a blogging groove, it’s like telling your best friend all your secrets as soon as they happen. That’s how it was this past Sunday morning. It was early. I blogged, and wanted to write a week’s worth of posts in a few hours. I want that feeling to stick around. Maybe it’s flow. I hope.<br />
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<br />Januaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036651950996873368noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14397387.post-57422575812961639082018-01-01T22:14:00.002-05:002018-01-01T22:32:46.061-05:00Poetry Action Plan 2018<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAWnaAqLKu8HU0nl8HSsa45dD-9BF5604cacWAtS5KCzFhI323_bghcLTBK7iLwZ2KIEjMgmAg98jDw3Tc7uFROe6YkGctEPfMf2iLsMaAodHDekjM-r5SQk8h8RXn1DKJSizx/s1600/2018+image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="161" data-original-width="312" height="164" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAWnaAqLKu8HU0nl8HSsa45dD-9BF5604cacWAtS5KCzFhI323_bghcLTBK7iLwZ2KIEjMgmAg98jDw3Tc7uFROe6YkGctEPfMf2iLsMaAodHDekjM-r5SQk8h8RXn1DKJSizx/s320/2018+image.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Next year will be 10 years of the Poetry Action Plan! Even in the years when I didn’t think it would help, it did.<br />
<br />
A Poetry Action Plan, or PAP, is a road map for how to think about your writing life. There are four steps to creating a plan. To sum it up:<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>Define your goals. What is most important to you as a writer.</li>
<li>Be realistic about what can you achieve.</li>
<li>Track your progress.</li>
<li>Prepare for setbacks BUT be open to opportunities wherever they appear.</li>
</ol>
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And if I had to add a fifth step, I’d say don’t be too hard on yourself for not accomplishing a goal.<br />
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Last year, after dealing with the death of my ex-husband at the end of 2016, I was just trying to stay above water. We were used to our little system of pick ups and drop offs. And while I never thought I had enough time, I really missed (and still miss), the balance of another parent, for everything from child care to having another voice in the room. But I managed, somehow, to get a few things done.<br />
<br />
Some tasks could have done better. Even though I veered off my list (see <a href="http://poetmom.blogspot.com/2017/12/stress-list.html" target="_blank">Stress List</a>), I still had a pretty good year (see <a href="http://poetmom.blogspot.com/2017/12/brag-list.html" target="_blank">Brag List</a>). <br />
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<b>My 2017 List:</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Write a poem a week: I wrote 45 poems. It happened in spurts when I wrote a poem a day. Many of them are trash, so quality does not equal quantity.</li>
<li>Send out a submission once a week. I did not submit one poem in 2017. Not. One. (Here’s where being kind to myself matters.)</li>
<li>Only take on writing projects that have meaning for me. This I did do, and I think the quality of the projects I took on made a difference. I don’t have to accept every offer that comes my way. Makes a real difference when deciding how best to spend my time.</li>
<li>Yoga! Nope. (Y’know, yoga has been on my list for two years. I think I should take it off and op for something else.)</li>
</ul>
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What works best for me are some hard and squishy goals. I do better with hard numbers and some that are more subjective.<br />
<br />
<b>In 2018, I will:</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><i>Write a poem a week.</i> Even if I write in them in batches, it’s still a good goal to have.</li>
<li><i>Submit to eight top-tier journals.</i> I’m swinging for the rafters. Now I thought about submitting to a new journal a week but I'm going for quality over quantity. </li>
<li><i>Help my third book find a wider audience.</i> <i>Rewilding</i> will be released in November, so I’m starting marking and promotion now. The real challenge comes from not overextending myself. I need to find new opportunities, which makes the whole process worthwhile. Otherwise, it’s not worth it to be away from my family.</li>
<li><i>Swim! </i></li>
</ul>
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If you're curious, here's my PAPs for <a href="http://poetmom.blogspot.com/2017/01/poetry-action-plan-2017.html" target="_blank">2017</a> and <a href="http://poetmom.blogspot.com/2016/02/poetry-action-plan-2016.html" target="_blank">2016</a>.</div>
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<i>Good luck with your PAP!</i></div>
Januaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13036651950996873368noreply@blogger.com7