Lara Tupper: Swift Ink Stories

Patience by the Fire

My talented sister-in-law made this holiday gift, above (Winter Mole Making S'mores by the Fire). Like the mole, my vision isn't great. But when I look at it, I can't stop smiling. I love a cozy fire and the invitation to hibernate on winter days.

I also love s'mores. Patience is not my strong suit; my tactic is to blacken the marshmallow and be done with it. (For more on my cooking skills, or lack thereof, please see my latest piece for Kripalu Resources, Being the Helper: Confessions of an Unenthusiastic Cook.)  

In 2019, I intend to cultivate greater patience, particularly where creative sparks are concerned. I can tend to my creative fires, in other words, and allow the proverbial marshmallow to golden. I can be kinder to myself when it comes to my daily writing practice. (Self-judgment is so 2018.) 

JANUARY WRITING EXERCISE: Last month I asked you to consider your intentions for the new year. (I call them intentions, rather than resolutions.) This month, pick jus…