I've spent a lot of time writing and reading, fueling the creative as much as I can. Just last week, I submitted a piece for publication in a writing contest - my first submission in 7 years. I know my chances of winning are slim, but that's not the reason I sent my poem in. It was a huge goal of mine to do that this year, and I feel accomplished. It's the first piece I've written in a long while that I felt proud of: award or not, published or not. Now I feel like I'm finally moving forward.
After a few years without any major writing efforts, a fire was finally lit and it's great. My goal was to have something submitted by 12/31, and I ended up submitting it a little early.
I can't believe this year is already over. Here is a short list of a few favorite things that helped light a fire under me this year creatively, and things that I have been grateful for.
Sigur Rós - 9/25, The Orpheum, Minneapolis
Even if we hadn't been in the second row, I have no doubt my feelings on this show would have changed. Even without strings, Jonsi & friends were more amazing than I imagined. They surprised all of us by busting out 'Nothing Song' from Vanilla Sky; my absolute favorite. 'Gobbledigook' (pictured above) was a brilliant display of confetti, drums, smiles and claps from all points in the theatre. What an experience. Out of the hundreds of shows I've been to, this takes the cake.
The Sound and the Fury - William Faulkner
I loved it. I loved it so so much that I can't quite find the words.
I loved the intricate, sordid family neuroses and lies and loves and the overall strangeness of such a complicated, jumbled story. This book has been on my to-read list for years, and I'm so glad I finally read it. It's the story of the Compson family, deep in the heart of Mississippi, whose members are plagued with a plethora of problems that are deeply seeded in the family history. Such a beautiful and unique story of life and where it takes us.
President Elect ObamaI've always considered myself of the Independent Party. Politicians are flawed, and so many are corrupt: people are human. Barack is no exception. But I have to say, I can't help but have hope for the direction we're going. I feel lucky to have been able to witness his speech after he won the election, standing in front of thousands in Chicago, both proud and humbled. I have hope.
The Pending Arrival of Jackson Jude Ranney
My best friend's baby, my godson. So excited. She is going to be such an amazing mother.
DadAfter 3 hospitalizations this year, 4 suicide attempts and commitment court hearings, he's still here. He's still on this planet, trying hard every day to keep his chin up. After the past few years he's had, I'd say that's one hell of an accomplishment. Although he lives a few hours away now, he's under 24-hour care, and although he has his dark days, I've seen him laugh a few times, and smile. That in itself is an accomplishment. I'm so proud of him.
Here's to a great 2009.
