Of the three resolutions I made last year, I accomplished two fully and one partially.

• Six poems published: I’m giving myself partial credit because my chapbook, My Mother’s Child, was published.
• Write at least three poems for my poetry project: Although I haven’t written a poem specifically about dark matter, most of my writing this year dealt with the issue of darkness and light in some way. Kelly definitely thinks my poems are part of my next collection.
• Go to a poetry retreat or writer’s residency: I attended the VONA (Voices of Our Nations Arts) retreat for writers of color in July.

 

With the big move to the Boston area this year, my 2016 poetry resolutions focus on establishing a poetry community in my new home.

1. Start virtual poetry dates: These meetings have been so important and necessary for both of us, so Kelly and I will continue our poetry dates via Skype.
2. Join a book club: Whether focused solely on reading poetry or fiction, a book club will help me find like-minded individuals.
3. Attend five poetry open mics: This resolution will get me out and about in Boston and the MetroWest area. Only aiming for five this year to give myself time to find them and to account for bad weather months.
4. Find a place to write: Moving means finding a new place where I can be creative, so locating a room of my own will be imperative.