My latest poem, "Beech Creek," has been published by BAUXITE. You can read it in their first issue, which you can find online at https://sites.google.com/view/bauxitemagazine/issues/1. My poem is on page 83 🪨

Being on this poetry journey has made me realize that as much as I would love to do an MFA... I don't know if I could handle the inherent wishy-washiness of writers. Sit down and write! It will be shit, but at least you wrote.

I had one of the worst doctor's appointments ever today. I'm really upset, disturbed, angry, etc. My first action is to schedule an appointment with a new endocrinologist for a second opinion. My second action is to refocus my diet on whole foods. My third action is to check in on my current medications and make sure I'm taking them correctly. After that... I'll have to see how this all plays out.

Yesterday, I cut my hair for the first time in seven years. Today, I styled my hair curly. I look EXACTLY like I did in college, about 10 years ago. I’m freaking out in a very bad way.

I admit I'm annoyed that the University didn't issue a blanket statement about working remotely or attending classes remotely due to the air quality. I'm pissed off that I couldn't work from home today but I'm downright angry that our students are being forced to walk outside between their classes in these conditions.

I just learned there is a Mary Oliver documentary that is having a theater release this weekend at my second closest independent cinema... which is a 98 mile drive one way. I usually am not very upset that I live in rural Pennsylvania, but I am today. I sacrifice my access to art/theater/literature for the ability to live in a small community and have easy access to nature. Double-edged sword, etc.

I know I'm not quite right yet inside because I'm exhausted like I've never been exhausted before. I want to go home and lay on the couch and watch my cat play with his toys. I want my husband to hold my hand. Maybe put some tv on for us.

Ended up in the ER today from excruciating pain in my lower abdomen. My first whole day back to in-person work right down the drain.