A Season of Change

Spring always feels like a quiet invitation—to begin again, to soften, to step forward in ways we may have been holding back from all winter. As the days stretch a little longer and the light lingers just a bit more, I find myself reflecting on both where I’ve been and where I’m going. My music playlist has been steeped in melancholy these days. I’m going through a tough time and feel like I’m back in the liminal space. Back at book # 1! I can remember a little over a year ago listening to Chappell Roan’s song Kaleidoscope with tears running down my face as I was experiencing an awakening of sorts. I played it today and it resonated in a new way. And this is art. People tell me they return to my poems at various moments in their lives, and each time, they land differently.

I had the honor of attending a Spring Equinox celebration at Ruby Rose Gallery in Cambridge, WI. There were various vendors and I set up a table to sell my books and write free haikus for attendees. I really enjoy connecting with people when they are talking to me about a special moment or person in their life that they want to preserve. The exchange of energy is magical and the alchemy of it creates a bond between us. That’s what I hope my poetry does – change how we see each other in the best way. Thank you to Meg and the Ruby Rose crew for supporting me and my art and creating a beautiful place with positive, loving energy.

This time of year feels especially personal to me. With my birthday on March 28, I naturally slip into a season of reflection and renewal. Each year brings its own lessons, its own healing, its own unexpected beauty. And this year, more than ever, I’m leaning into the idea of new beginnings—not as something dramatic or overwhelming, but as something gentle and intentional.

There’s something powerful about allowing yourself to start fresh, no matter where you are in your story.

And with that spirit, I’m so excited to share what’s ahead.

Over the next couple of months, I’ll be connecting with so many of you through a series of workshops and readings that are close to my heart. Poetry has always been a space where we can explore truth, vulnerability, and healing—and these upcoming events are designed to create just that kind of space.

I’ll be kicking things off on April 10 with the Jax Poetry Festival, where I’ll be leading a virtual poetry workshop at noon (ET) - REGISTER HERE. Then, on April 11, I’ll be at the Cedarburg Public Library for a free verse workshop—there’s something so special about gathering in community and writing together, especially in a town I grew up in.

Later in the month, on April 30, I’ll be hosting another free verse workshop at the Karl Junginger Memorial Library in Waterloo, WI - REGISTER HERE. This one will require registration and I promise it will be a meaningful and welcoming experience for writers of all levels.

And in early May, on the 3rd, I’ll be at Ink & Ivy Book Boutique in Madison for a poetry reading alongside Andrea Potos. Readings like this always feel like a celebration—of words, of connection, of shared experience. Check out Andrea’s website – she is a gifted poet.

Each of these events is an opportunity—not just to write, but to pause, reflect, and reconnect with yourself and others.

Spring reminds us that growth doesn’t have to be rushed. That beauty can emerge after stillness. That we are allowed to begin again, as many times as we need. I’m starting to see tulips and irises pop up in my yard, signaling that color and happiness is on the way.

So whether you’re joining me at one of these events or simply finding your own quiet way to welcome this season, I hope you give yourself permission to step into something new.

I know I am. Let's talk soon.

With affection,

Carrie VS