Welcome to Moon Penny Musings.
I’m Laura Smith, a writer, teacher, and runner
based in Western Massachusetts.
Through the lens of a Gen X educator and lifelong student of literature, I weave together the endurance of marathon training with the delicate craft of storytelling, documenting my evolution as a writer on a freshly paved path to publication and self-discovery.
For more frequent reflections, poetry, and a behind-the-scenes look at my path to publication, join me over at Moon Penny Musings on Substack. Subscribe to get my latest essays delivered directly to your inbox
You can find more about me here.
Below you can find my latest entries.
You can also view my posts by category: Poetry, Fiction, and Non-Fiction.
Please reach out with comments, questions, or opportunities to collaborate.
Finding Joy in Creativity
In memory of Deb Koffman (1966 – 2021) Deb Koffman was a local artist, whose whimsical pieces found a place in her gallery in the village of Housatonic Massachusetts. I met her a few times when I went to her gallery; her images brought joy to the viewer. I hadn’t been thinking about her, but…
Poem of the Day Project
July 24, 2026 A silver-winged dragonfly landed on an apple blossom, delicate legs caressed the pale pink petals. In a brief moment it was gone, flitting to a more sturdy perch within the copse of spring trees. A moment of fleeting grace, unattainable by mere brushstroke. Our hearts flutter in time with the insect’s translucent…
Road to the TCS NYC Marathon: Part 3
Releasing the EGO For the (possibly) first time in my life I have been listening to an expert (my running coach) and I have been easing my way back into my running routine slowly, which has triggered my delightful ego. This ego, maybe I shall call her Cruella, has had some not so kind words…



