This was a week that, if my mom were around, she’d by laughing hysterically. Not because something was funny, but because a million dumb things have gone wrong in absolutely ridiculous fashion. And her response to that was always, always to just…cackle. (Note: Nothing dire is wrong. Just the parade of stupid things, some of which caused the other, that will be solved by professionals.)

I have a lot of memories of my mom just, like, laughing like a hyena in the middle of something going very wrong. And, you know, at a certain point, that shit is funny, because life is absolutely, thoroughly absurd.

And sometimes, the only thing you can do is laugh. I’m a big believer in finding the humor in situations. Laughter is good, damn it. And so, in this parade of things that have gone sideways this week, I have found myself chuckling, because it’s all on theme.

[clears throat] ANYWAY, let’s get into it.

1. PLEASE take 5 minutes out of your day today to call your senators about the garbage trans legislation that passed the House yesterday. Call TODAY. Here’s a script someone else wrote, if you need one. Got questions? Reply to this, and I’ll reply ASAP.

2. Your girl (that’s me!) has a new poem out today at Small Wonders, and I’m extremely proud of it. “When Death Comes, Look to The Tower,” is (for me) for anyone who needs a reminder of their own strength—that you have all the power within yourself, that you tell your own story. Sometimes, in the middle of the mess, you simply have to remember who you are. And act accordingly.

3. ICYMI, there’s some wild shit (derogatory) going on at Granta, regarding a contest and AI.

4. This isn’t pointing to anything except some advice you didn’t ask for: find some time to be absolutely silly as hell this week. Go run through the grass in bare feet! Have a dance party in the kitchen! Make silly faces at a friend! Life is a lot, sometimes, and it’s important to find little pockets of joyous ridiculousness. Trust me.

My poetry collection, Offerings for Ordinary Gods, comes out in [checks notes] holy shit, exactly TWO MONTHS FROM TODAY. [runs around in a circle] It’s a witchy, tarot-filled, & myth-heavy poetry collection, and if you already like my poetry, you’re gonna love it. Bonus: it’s got a ton of artsy photos in it by yours truly! You can preorder it anywhere, worldwide, but Inkwood books in NJ is offering signed preorders. In the U.S., make a note in the Instructions/Comments box during checkout. Outside of the U.S., email Inkwood, and they'll get you sorted! (They’re really, really lovely folks.)

Can't preorder? Ask your library! It’d really mean a lot to me. I’m so proud of the collection, and I’ve loved working with CLASH Books. Super pumped for y’all to read it! (PS I am too tired to proofread this, so if you see any typos, no you didn’t.)