http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MBB2T3oOUp4

Dear Readers,

First of all, happy New Year!

It's been some time since you've heard from me, and I've missed you.

Here's my excuse: my laptop crashed, killing my internet connections and forcing me to detach somewhat from the matrix in the analog world of pre-internet life. I've been reading. I've been writing in my notebook. I've been drawing and painting. And I've been busy busy busy besides, with work for Young Chicago Authors' Chicago Beat, Chicago Slam Works, digital storytelling workshop facilitation, and trying to fit some breathing and/or rest into the mix.

In some ways, being detached has been a blessing. I've gotten so much work done. I can't wait to share much of it with you. Without divulging too much, I can say without a doubt 2014 will be a year full of revelation, renaissance, and excitement, with new developments around every corner. What a time to be alive and in the city of Chicago.

Oh, Chicago, city of dreams, wonderland of snow. I love so much about this my adopted hometown, these frigid windy days not among them. I am thinking today of where I spent my Christmas and New Year's Eve, in the tropical warm of Florida, with some of my best friends in this world.

My friends, creators all, decided to have a poetry and hip hop cypher in the parking lot of the apartment complex where the New Year's Eve party to end all New Year's Eve parties was held. Hosted by the inimitable artiste (photographer, ingenue) Christie Marie, we had a splendid time. The video of said cypher was shot by filmmaker Jason Bruzzichesi.

As the chill outside descends, my soul is yet warmed by the memory of my artistic cradle, my beloved Tampa Bay. Love to all my folks who get to actually see the sun on a daily basis. And Happy New Year to all. Here's to an amazing year.

-RJ