I am not writing many new things these days, but I am collecting and compiling. As I told you a few months ago, I've finished a fourth poetry manuscript, Vocation, which is now under review. More recently, I've put together a new essay manuscript and have sent it, too, off into the unknown. And now I am discussing a "White Bear" collaboration with a wonderful young illustrator, Morgan Cameron, who specializes in painting animals. Who knows what will come of this? I am excited about the possibilities.

It is so cold here in Maine--18 below zero this morning. But I feel almost springlike.