The deadline is fast approaching for the Mass. State Poetry Society’s annual National Poetry Day Contest. It’s Aug. 1, so hurry up and get your poems typed up and sent by that date.

Maybe some of you entered the National Federal of State Poetry Societies‘ annual contest. I did, and according to its website they will post the winners soon. Can’t wait. I haven’t entered in years and years, because I’ve been so busy and distracted and stressed and lacking in self-confidence. The latter is still true, but I’m happy to say I quit my job at the newspaper after 13 years and look forward to a better, less stressful and more lucrative life! Here’s my goodbye editorial to the readers of the Danvers Herald, in case you’re interested.

It is almost August, which is my favorite month. But, July 4 is  almost my favorite day, with its summer sun high and hot and the day long with seasonal celebrations.

The weather has been glorious, with gusts of wind rippling the leaves into applause for so much beauty. I am very happy, and I hope all the poets and poetry lovers/likers reading this are, too.

Best wishes in the contests! But, you can’t win unless you enter, as the Lottery hawkers say.