I am a writer, poet, community volunteer, pupil of psychology, writing instructor, guest speaker, artist, lover of nature, curious traveler and author of Life Is Full of Sweet Spots, An Exploration of Joy, as well as Dreams of a Wingless Child, a book of award-winning poetry. An advocate of the power of writing as an agent of change, I enjoy speaking to community groups about the joy of making words sing and conduct creative poetry writing workshops for inmates at the State of Connecticut’s York Correctional Institution. As a writer and a painter, I enjoy living along the Connecticut shore, where I infuse everyday observations of the natural world with the sensitivity and insightfulness that tend to define my experience of life. It is these reflections that have helped me realize that one need not look far to find an element of peace, of celebration, of joy, in this inordinate world of which we are all a part.
“We were all born with wings. In times of doubt, spread them.” — Kevin Myers appendage of hope spread wide in belief and trust lift above darkness * * * Safe under My Wing ~ Great Egret stretches by nest with its two pale blue eggs as she preens, wing spread in an impressive 55” … More Spread Your Wings
“The secret to a successful hire is this: look for the people who want to change the world.” — Marc Benioff dress to show my worth strong image sways selection really want that job * * * Preparation ~ Egret preens finery to present self in best light • “Job Interview” haiku and photo by … More Job Interview
“The physical language of the body is so much more powerful than words.” — Bill Irwin classical movements lines and shapes of expression loftiest language * * * Aerial Maneuver ~ Great Blue Heron lands smoothly—a finished ballet • Photo by Jan Logozzo • “Ballerina” haiku by Mary O’Connor © 2024
“Your body is the direct result of what you eat as well as what you don’t eat.” – Gloria Swanson eat beautiful foods benefit from head to toe nutrient richness * * * Shades of Pink ~ The color of Roseate Spoonbill plumage is diet-driven. Feathers can range from pale to bright pink, depending on … More Rich Diet
“We go to sanctuaries to remember the things we hold most dear, the things we cherish and love.” — William Cronon haven of stillness place of quietness and strength restocked lifeforce * * * Sanctuary Entrance ~ Sunlight paves way into quiet place • Photo by Jan Logozzo • Blog and “Sanctuary” haiku by Mary … More Sanctuary
“Fertilizer does no good in a heap, but a little spread around works miracles all over.” — Richard Brinsley Sheridan heap rose upon rose display of garden’s beauty magnificent pile * * * Look Up ~ Rose upon rose heightens beauty • “Top of the Heap” haiku and photo by Mary O’Connor © 2024
“Our task must be to free ourselves by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature and its beauty.” — Albert Einstein reach in wide circle grasp totality of life take in its richness * * * Dynamics at Work ~ With its wingspan of 60-65 inches, Wood … More Embrace
“We have forgotten how to be good guests, how to walk lightly on the earth as its other creatures do.” — Barbara Ward walk through the garden appreciate its beauty sustainable green * * * Where Flowers Bloom ~ Accommodating guest • Photo by Jan Logozzo • “Environmental Care” haiku and blog post by Mary … More Environmental Care
“Having a safe space to imagine and dream and (re)invent yourself is the first step to being happy and successful, whatever road you choose to pursue.” — Ashley Bryan securing safe space priority of the day place of well-being * * * Under Cover ~ Pine tree canopy provides safe shelter • “Safe Space” haiku … More Safe Space
“Sometimes the most important thing in a whole day is the rest we take in between two deep breaths.” — Etty Hillesum working long and hard not always best therapy better to relax * * * Recharging ~ Wood Storks at Wakodahatchee Wetlands take break from day’s activity • Photo and “Best Approach” haiku by Mary O’Connor © … More Best Approach
Life Is Full of Sweet Spots 