Thirty years ago my older brother, who was ten years old at the time, was trying to get a report on birds written that he’d had three months to write. It was due the next day. We were out at our family cabin in Bolinas, and he was at the kitchen table close to tears, surrounded by binder paper and pencils and unopened books on birds, immobilized by the hugeness of the task ahead. Then my father sat down beside him, put his arm around my brother’s shoulder, and said, ‘Bird by bird, buddy. Just take it bird by bird. – Anne Lamott, Bird by Bird
One of my favorite writing teachers is Anne Lamott. I do not feel judged when I read Anne Lamott. I feel like writing is within reach. This March, I’ve decided to take the SOLC sponsored by Two Writing Teachers, and in doing so, I have decided to take it bird by bird – literally. I will write or draw each day about birds.
I have been working on a lot of academic, school-type writing, and I want set aside March for exploration and play. I’m not trying to teach anything; I’m just pondering, playing, and considering the life of birds. I have always admired birds – both their seeming fragility and their great strength.
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Freedom I draw open the heavy drapes In my bedroom, Look out in the early morning Past the shrubbery and thorny bushes. There he stands, A dark-headed sentinel Staring with black beady eyes, Quiet and still. His webbed feet Provide sturdy balance. He looks in my direction And meets my gaze. He rustles his sleek feathers, Moves towards the adjacent patio To stare intently through the Sliding door windows. There the neighbor’s Orange tabby cat, Stretches, sunning himself On the worn blue ottoman. The goose unmoving watches. The cat stands, circles, And shape-shifts - While his tail twitches. This interests the goose And he steps closer to the window. What creature is this? What predator behind glass? The cat pretends not to notice And turns his back. The goose returns to his place Under the cool pine tree. He stands proud lifting his wild wings slightly Catching the wind Knowing he is free.
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March 2
March Morning Bare Branches Fringe the sullen sky Haunting and motionless Even the birds are too cold To venture out This March morning Tufts of grass still green Poke through a thin layer Of fresh fallen snow Golden oak leaves Lie frozen in a garden puddle Suspended till spring The Slate-gray stones Which border the garden Are stamped with lichen Gray, white, pale green Like alien snowflakes Each one different The earth rests patiently Settling in under compost, Mulch, burlap blankets Though in my mind I can hear the distant Buzz of spring
March 1
Word Dancer: Literature, the Arts, & Education 
Fortunately, we live in a place where we can hear and see birds from morning to evening. Lovely poems.
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What a great idea to have a focus for the month and play to be the goal!
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The acorn woodpecker is a majestic bird in your words. I feel as though I’m taking a master class through your poems. Lovely.
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Lovely poems, capturing so many different aspects of birds and their environment. I love the Bird by Bird book too.
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I read Bird by Bird so many years ago. Your post makes me think it’s time to pick it up (with fresh eyes) again.
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Somehow I missed the previous two days’ poems. My heart is heavy for the little warbler. You treated her w/ dignity,
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Love your poems, the action and imagery is captivating!
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I loved Bird by Bird and I am at awe with your playful and creative approach to this March challenge.
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I love your poems. It is a unique way to write for the challenge. Your poems are very picturesque.
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It’s a great book and an excellent mentor author. Thanks for the inspiration!
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The action in your poem today is fantastic! I especially enjoyed “folding like a broken umbrella”.
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How funny! (I loved today’s poem) I am writing picture book drafts and many entries have been about birds. I love birds, too. I also love watching them. I like the concept of “bird by bird,” for March’s Slice of Life, too.
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I have read Bird by Bird, but now I am thinking I need a reread! Your poems are exquisite. I like today’s poem because of the hope that spring brings to us along with the birdsong.
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Thanks for the introduction to brown pelicans, I do love your poem about them.
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I love your Nine Songbirds poem and the form you chose for it.
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I love today’s nonet. I knew I’d find peace and beauty in your poetry today.
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I love the nonet form, and I loved the sounds and pictures you created in your nonet today.
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I think an egret is a most eye catching bird and your poem about them is perfection!
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Oh, Joanne, that is wonderful. Those wings: “her origami wings folded / to precise perfection” Wow! And all the way to that “single shining fish” is just beautiful.
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