POETRY FRIDAY: The Aspiring Poet’s Journal – Day 1

Ruth picked up an extra copy of
The Aspiring Poet’s Journal by Bernard Friot, in the NCTE Exhibit Hall, before I arrived in San Antonio last Friday. I rifled through it quickly last week and liked what I saw. However, I didn’t really have a close look at it until now… and I really like what I see. I decided to have-a-go with the charge Friot gives on Day 1 (There are 365 “prompts” to get kids writing poetry.), which is to craft a poem that includes the words write, first, poem, and year. As an extra nudge, Friot suggests writing a list poem that starts with one of three phrases. I figured I’d try one of the phrases as the start for my poem. I reflected on where I’ve come in the past year (i.e., from last Thanksgiving to this one). Here goes:

In One Year

In one year I’ve become a New Englander, appreciating the beauty of fall and the allure of the beaches in summertime.

In one year I’ve grown comfortable being in my 30’s, even if I still pluck out the occasional gray hairs that sprout.

In one year I’ve documented the first time I did many things with my husband who I wed in December 2007.

In one year I’ve decided write more words alongside the photographs I take so specific memories don’t fade away with time.

In one year I’ve traveled to new places like Puerto Vallarta, El Yunque, Tortola, and Texas.

In one year I’ve become less afraid to share the original poems I write online.

In one year I’ve grown stronger because of my determination.

In one year I’ve stayed a New Yorker, even though I don’t reside there that will always be my home.