It is far superior to January first, which brings with it glittering expectations of resolutions to be fulfilled -- smaller butts, greener diets, completed novels, extended exercise and well-knitted sweaters.
Hopes are smaller of February 1. Still there, still sparkly, but smaller. Reality is bigger on February 1 - the reality that lives don't magically change with a new calendar on your kitchen wall. The reality that smaller butts and greener diets and more exercise and completed novels take work. Habit. Ugh.
The best thing February first is bringing this year is my return to the Tuesday morning Women Writing for a Change circle. (I missed last semester due to the fabulous Las Vegas wedding.) I brushed my teeth, combed my hair, brewed some tea, lit a stick of palo santo and straightened behind me so that my sisters in the Zoom circle won't see the mess that is currently my workroom.
My laptop is charged, a candle and matches are nearby. Two new composition books from the Dollar Zone (one for free writes, one for feedback) are on my table, along with 2 new Zebra pens and my planter full of colorful gel pens for colorful edits, colorful comments, colorful underlines and colorful doodles. My daughter gave me a clacky new pink keyboard for Christmas - typing on it feels and sounds - like accomplishment.
I am ready. I am ready to write, and ready to be thrilled at listening to the writing of other women - my friends.
Peace
