Once it’s gone, it becomes difficult to remember it was ever there to begin with.

But once it returns, you wonder how you ever forgot it. That twittering cacophony that coalesce and culminate each morning the sun rises vernally; the number of birds that tweet and speak and laugh together as you awake. They have been awake since the sun had the thought to rise. Why should you take so long, lazybones? There’s a new day to walk into!

Optimism is how I hear that sweet birdsong. Yes, it’s still been miserably cold. There’s been scant sun. Gloomy, even. But that song reminds me that there are still some creatures out there that sing despite the grey. Whose song is for tomorrow, when it isn’t for today.

A good reminder, I think.

Life continues apace here at Cahill Cottage. School is keeping me busy with all things school-shaped; teaching, screenwriting, poetry, and more. I’m beginning to design my first course next year, which has been lovely and scary; I did my first lesson plan and all my students were supportive and kind. The kids are alright.

AND I got to do my first in-person tutoring sessions, too, so that’s been excellent. I know I still need a lot of experience, but for now, I really do feel like this is what I’m supposed to be a part of right now, and that is a good damn feeling <3

AFTF continues to find its readers, approaching nearly 3,000 ratings on Goodreads which is wild. We’re into the second printing, the audiobook is doing well, and honestly, I would love to be nominated for awards, but this book has exceeded whatever reasonable expectations I had for it, and I know whatever happens, it’s been finding its readers.

Hoping to really take off into the next project, so let’s keep all fingers, toes, and paws crossed I can do so!

Remember friends: listen for the birdsong and know, Spring is here <3

Reading: City of Last Chances by Adrian Tchaikovsky

Listening: Herald of Darkness by Old Gods of Asgard

Playing: Alan Wake II