So, it’s almost embarrassing to realize that I haven’t posted here since early 2021. But in that time a lot of things have happened, as with anyone, the good and the bad. I’ve had some new experiences and discovered what I already knew about myself – I’m a teacher at heart, and if my creativity is stifled in anyway, I’m not me – and I’m not happy. Needless to say, I’ve found my way back to happiness, where I’m teaching again, which I love, and creating again, which has opened up the floodgates for new poems and essays, and new experiences to enjoy. Recently, I was asked to visit a friend’s college classroom via Zoom to talk about poetry and read some of my own. It was energizing. I’ve missed that feeling so much. So, I will be posting here when I have some new poetry readings coming up – most are scheduled after the new year, but there will be quite a few to choose from as I have two new poetry books to share from, my chapbook, Staring Dementia in the Face (Finishing Line Press, 2023), and a co-authored book of poems with my Poetry Sister, Mary Sexson, Marriage Maps and Driven Destinies (Chatter House Press, 2023), where she has written the section on marriage, and my section deals with travels and other destinations.
I also used to use this blog to encourage others to write by posting a prompt that they could use to get into their own writing, whether it be poetry, creative non-fiction, fiction, or even plays. I’ve missed doing that as well – so I will give you a prompt today and I will come back here as I used to, at least monthly, if not more, to post more fresh prompts. It feels good to dive back into writing and everything that comes with it…even those dastardly rejections. But, hey, if you get those – at least you’re writing and sending work out into the world, right? Here’s a prompt to contemplate as we head into the Thanksgiving holiday:
Think back to a Thanksgiving where you were happiest. Who all was there? What was happening around you, do you remember conversations, the smells, the food? Or flip that on its head and write about a Thanksgiving where you were miserable. Give details such as why, who was involved, what was happening around you. Remember, all you have to do is give yourself 10 minutes – set the timer and go. You’ll be surprised at what memories you can conjure up – for better or worse.
Happy writing and “see” you soon!
Lylanne
Lylanne Musselman 