As often happens, baltimoreblackwoman has been MIA for a number of months, dealing with summer doldrums and health issues. Unfortunately, those two reasons have become my norm in recent years. (Last year, I had dental surgery; this year, cataract surgery.) I’ve never really been a summer person, but with higher temperatures and humidity, and more frequent storms, over the past few years, I like summer even less. Yet, despite my uneven pattern of writing, this blog continues to gain new followers! I am most grateful for all of you who read and like or comment on my work.
Though I haven’t posted anything new since May 8, 2023 (really?), I’ve still been busy. This year, I served as Format Editor of the book, Reflections: My Journey on Arunah, by Rosearl Julian West, which was printed on the Amazon KDP platform, an endeavor that tested my 48 years of knowledge and skills in the printing & publishing industry. I‘m also helping the author to arrange and present book signings and promotions. I read some of my new works at several local poetry readings. As a contributing writer for The Baltimore Jazz Alliance Newsletter, I recently had my third article (and second album review) published. I continue to work on my own writing projects, as well. I am working on a book about my protracted cataract surgery experience and submitting individual poems to journals for future publication.
I am approaching a personal milestone: In 10 days, I will be 70 years old. I never imagined reaching this age, or even thought about what it means. But the dental and vision issues I referred to above are signs that I am indeed getting older.
The blog is also approaching a milestone: celebrating 9 years of existence! I signed up with WordPress.com to start the blog on October 14, 2014 and published my first post on December 27th of that year. As I’ve often recounted, creating this site has opened so many doors for me. New writing opportunities have helped sharpen my skills, as well as my message; and an incredible network of colleagues and friends, developed over these last 9 years, has encouraged and strengthened my passion for writing and other pursuits, including joining and serving on the Board of the Eastern Shore Writers Association, leadership in community-building organizations in both the Reservoir Hill and Lauraville neighborhoods of Baltimore, and developing relationships with organizations dedicated to promoting and preserving Baltimore’s history, especially the contributions of Black Baltimoreans.
As I reflect on these past nine years, I’m also contemplating what the next nine years will bring. What new projects will keep me engaged and growing as a human being, thinker, writer, and citizen? At the moment, this question is just a shot in the dark, but as I find answers, I know I’ll be sharing them here.
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