Me getting my copy of Terrance Hayes' latest poetry collection signed after his reading in Minneapolis. He's definitely one of the most inspiring and entertaining contemporary poets I've had the pleasure of hearing read.

A snowy morning along the Mississippi River near downtown Minneapolis. Winter is finally unveiling her finery in the upper Midwest.

A couple of picks of street musicians in Dublin, from a recent trip to Ireland. Not being much of a note taker, I can't remember the names of the streets were I encountered these singers. But the sound of live music wafted generously throughout centre city Dublin.

Greetings from Minneapolis and happy Pride. Favorite overheard phrase from the local pride parade (presumably in response to a question): "I'm a spouse not a companion."

No to brag, but I got to see this show the day before the Tony awards. (Rooting for the show, and the performers -- especially Sarah Pidgeon -- to take home a slew of awards.)

My first visit to the Bryant Park reading series this year. Leah Umansky and Patricia Spears Jones were among the readers at this lovely series on a nice cool NYC evening.

Gwen Nell Westerman, Minnesota's poet laureate, read from her new collection, Songs, Blood Deep, at the University of Minnesota yesterday. I can't wait to delve into more of her work. (She read, and sometimes sang, in English and Dakota.)