News Flash! THIRD WEDNESDAY Has Published My Poem, “The Cannon City Creamery”!

Red Letter

Wings and Windows Envelope Back

You’ve heard of Red Letter Days? Around Christmas, I received something extra-special in the mail: my contributor’s copy to the Fall/Winter version of Third Wednesdayan excellent journal that combines poetry, fiction, photography, and essays on craft and life. There was also a small check, a rare event in the life of a working poet, and a testament to the serious way the editorial staff regards the work they review. I am enjoying the introduction to the work of other poets, writers, and artists, and I am really happy to have a poem of mine in such fine company.

In addition to publishing the journal, Third Wednesday, holds an annual poetry contest. The deadline is in the last week of January each year; three winners will receive not only publication but also a prize of $50. You can send up to three poems (none to exceed two pages) and a $10 contest reading fee to be considered for the prize (address below).

Do you have some work you’ve been planning to send out? Consider Third Wednesday. You can be sure that your words will be read with respect by experienced editors who are themselves writers.

Third Wednesday Cover

Third Wednesday Back Cover INSERT

Wishing good news to each of you, Leslie

January: Weekly Poems Inspired By Northfielders

January Woods

My wise friends, Corrine and Elvin Heiberg, are firm believers in “the birthday month”, deeming the whole month in which someone’s birthday falls as special. My own birthday falls in January. The Heibergs have converted me to this celebratory view of January, helping me enjoy the austere pleasures of the spare colors and quiet, solitary moments after all the sparkle and excitement of the holidays.

This year of 2016 is a special one for me as I am anticipating the publication of my first book-length collection of poems. (I shall be posting more details on that closer to the publication date.) For now, I have decided to post one poem inspired by Northfield and its people each week, beginning on Tuesday, January 5. Some of these poems are part of the new book, some not. I hope that you will enjoy them. Today, I offer a few January photos from past years taken near my Northfield home.

January Sky

January Barn

Wishing you peace and quiet contentment,

Leslie