Congratulations are in order to SRD Editing Services editor Cortni Merritt for the recent publication of her poem “ballerina jewelry box” in The Hootlet’s Nook online magazine.

The poem was inspired by someone close to her and his relationship with his daughter. It centers on themes of loss, hope, and the mixed emotions involved in fatherly love. With images of childhood innocence and adult fears, the short piece inspires us to reflect on our own relationships with our parents and how our childhood dreams grow as we do.

Cortni has been writing poetry casually for more than 30 years and has a selection of poems featured in various publications. She plans to continue submissions in 2025. Subscribe to the blog for future updates!