Poetry Month

Two years ago I decided to choose one month a year and write a poem every even day of the month. The first year I chose March. I had just taken a poetry workshop and , since I hadn't written much poetry at all, I decided that this was just the thing to get more practice.

Last year I chose April, which is officially national poetry month, and this year I've chosen May.

I've really enjoyed doing it for several reasons. Not only do I end the month with 15 new poems, it also makes me pay attention to my world a lot closer - just to have something to write about. Last year I was writing these poems during the worst of my mother's illness and I think it really helped me deal with those feelings.

This year I have a new goal. I want to slow down. I don't want to be in such a hurry to rush through my life. This has been challenging since I have a long list of stuff I NEED to get done in a short amount of time.

But I'm starting with my poetry and taking my time and figuring that the rest of the stuff will get done too if I just plug away at it - or maybe it won't and I have to be honest that the world won't come to a crashing stop if it doesn't.

I want to pay attention to the flowers and blossoming trees this year. I want to take the time to read good books, to carefully write things I will be proud of.
And, I want to spend time enjoying my family and friends and not feel so time crunched!