I used to update this blog with all of my writing and reading strategies with my boys when they were younger along with my poems, stories, doodles, and comics. As my boys grew out of the early reading phase, I hoped to respect their privacy and this place became quiet. I changed all of those previous posts to “private” and plan to focus on posting about my writing. However, I decided to keep up one sweet memory of discussing dragons and Beowulf with my boys. What a fond time together.

This past year has been a heavily creative one for me. While I hold a doctorate and an M.A. in English, working toward an M.F.A. in Creative Writing has been a significant goal of mine. However, with taking care of the kids and working through chronic illnesses (for myself and both of my boys), the timing never felt right. I severely neglected my creative side over the past decade and felt that gnawing hole, like a compulsive itch, that other writers recognize.

When Chris asked my dad for his blessing to marry me 17 years ago, my dad (an IT guy) made him promise to never let me stop writing. Chris stayed true to his vow and encouraged me to enroll in an M.F.A. program in March 2023. Getting back in the classroom has been thrilling. I love interacting with my peers, sharing my work, and receiving feedback. I developed some pieces that I felt proud of and began sending them out for publication. I am happy to say that I received three acceptances this summer. I will be sure to post them as they become available.

It’s been a busy, productive year, and I’m looking forward to continuing to grow in my craft.