🌱 Welcome to the Garden Newsletter
A Fresh Start for 2025
As we step into the new year, we embrace the best parts of this fresh chapter—new beginnings and meaningful endings. It’s the perfect time to dream big, wipe the slate clean, and chart a course for growth and renewal. At the same time, we reflect on what we’re leaving behind, celebrating the milestones achieved and the lessons learned as we make room for the future.
Reflections & Aspirations
This past year, we explored innovative ideas, let go of outdated practices, and cultivated new connections. Our community flourished through collaboration, creativity, and courage. As we look to 2025, we’re excited to announce ambitious initiatives to amplify voices, share stories, and strengthen connections. Together, let’s foster learning, unity, and inspiration.
Welcoming a New Poet Laureate
We’re thrilled to introduce Chyrel J. Jackson as the Garden’s 2025 Poet Laureate! Chyrel, along with her sister Lyris Wallace, co-authored Sisters Roc’N’Rhyme Presents Poems in the Key of Life and has been a key contributor to our anthologies, events, and book club. We look forward to the creative energy and vision she’ll bring to our poetic table.
As we celebrate this new chapter, we also bid farewell to Nolcha Fox, the 2024 Poet Laureate. Nolcha will now focus on managing the ever-growing Masticadores website, where poets worldwide showcase their work. We’re grateful for her contributions and wish her continued success.
Upcoming Events in the Garden
🌟 Write Like Stephen King Workshop
Begins January 3rd
Unleash your inner storyteller in this writing workshop inspired by Stephen King’s prolific and methodical approach. No need to write horror—just come ready to create, refine, and finish your project with a supportive community. Register here.
📖 The One Mind Book Club
First Meeting: January 9th
This year, we dive into Building a Second Brain by Tiago Forte, a guide to organizing your ideas and making the most of your creative potential. Join us for stimulating discussions and actionable insights. Register Here.
🎠Garden Stage Story Contest
Submissions are open!
Our 1st quarter theme is Endings. Share your narrative, explore the theme, and connect with readers through your words. Read Submission Guidelines Here.
Let’s Bloom Together in 2025!
This year holds countless possibilities, and we’re excited to have you with us. Whether it’s through workshops, book clubs, or sharing your creative works, let’s make 2025 a year of growth, connection, and inspiration.
Here’s to embracing new beginnings and cherishing meaningful endings. Happy New Year!
Warm regards,
Nanci Arvizu
The Garden Team
Image created by Nanci Arvizu using ChatGPT
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