Sometimes it’s important to take a step back. That’s why I needed an extended recess: to step back, reflect, and listen. To what my writer’s intuition tells me with a calm, clear mind. To rest the creativity that I draw on to write. To clearly follow the path of poetry.

I have done so. Admittedly, it was difficult in the beginning. The itch to just post proved strong. But I rested, recovered and achieved a measure of clarity by keeping my rest. For that, I feel grateful.

And in light of that, let me wish you all a belated Happy Thanksgiving. I present to you a special collection of Thanksgiving-themed posts, from #haikai challenge contributions to past thanksgiving poems to a possible new creation. I appreciate your indulgence of my recess, and your continued patronage of my poetry. Thank you.

Declining sun

a day after Thanksgiving

still giving thanks