Welcome to February! Somewhere in my schooling I once read that February used to be known as “cabbage planting month.” I’ve never planted cabbage, so I don’t know if that’s true. Nor have I been able to verify (using Google) that any civilization or culture has ever, actually called February “cabbage planting month.” So I’m not sure if this a failure of my education, or a sign of latent creativity. =)

Happy New Year! I hope your 2016 is off to a great start.

We have a new update of The Journal 7 available. Check out “The Journal News” for what’s new and different.

We also have a new set of writing prompts, and this month tips explores the new category layout options in The Journal 7.

I hope everyone had a Happy Thanksgiving!
And since I’m combining the November and December newsletters, I would also like to wish everyone Happy Holidays! =)
Over this past weekend I learned, firsthand, why most people don’t make their own stuffing anymore. After baking the bread, turning the bread into croutons, and, finally, chopping veggies and turning the whole mess into stuffing (or “dressing,” as my mother calls it), I have to ask myself, “Will I ever do that again?” I probably will. But not tomorrow. In the spirit of the season, though, I would like to say I’m thankful it came out tasting great. =)

Yay! Autumn is here! Perhaps somewhat predictably, autumn is my favorite time of year.

Autumn makes me happy. Autumn makes me thoughtful. Autumn makes me remember my childhood. Something about the bright sunshine with the underlying touch of cool air energizes me. Sure, I’m always happy to see spring too, but that’s different. Autumn is my time of year. =)