As soon as I saw Linda Baie’s name on the package in my mailbox, I knew I was in for a treat, guaranteed that the contents of my second Poetry Swap would be both thoughtful and generous in spirit. And wow, was I right!

This was the beautiful homemade card and quote that greeted me when I opened my  package. How perfect is that?

Then, in addition to the lovely card with its personal note, Linda gave me a small lined notebook, perfect for jotting down ideas, thoughts, and inspiration on the go. As if that weren’t enough, she selected a book of poetry for me, “The Time Traveler” by Joyce Carol Oates. I’m looking forward to diving into this further, but the first poem alone thrums with powerful word play and imagery. What a wonderful gift!

And finally, and best of all, Linda wrote me a beautiful, personal poem. She had clearly spent time wandering around my blog, considered my writing, both poetry and prose, to inspire her piece. I was deeply touched.

Thank you so much, Linda, for your gift of poetry.

This week’s Poetry Friday Roundup is hosted by the gracious and talented Mary Lee Hahn at her blog, A Year of Reading. Make sure to stop by to beat the dog days of summer and enjoy some refreshing poetry.