November 30, 2025: And just like that, here’s my final End Note for the year! As I write this, rain is falling, and is gratefully received. Summer has been making itself felt in ever-rising temperatures, already some hot nights, so the garden welcomes the rain and I welcome a cool breeze around me as I type. There are still contests to enter in December and January so no excuse not to sharpen the pencils (and the brain) as you while away the summer days and nights – perhaps this month’s  featured essay will help inspire you, as Brad Bennett considers ‘verbing’ in haiku. I would like to thank all the readers of Haiku NewZ and, wherever you may be, wish a joyous Christmas and a peaceful and healthy 2026. I will update the Haiku NewZ pages as necessary over December and January, but the next featured essay won’t appear until February 1. For those of us looking forward to a summer break, have fun, stay safe and don’t forget to slip-slop-slap-wrap when you’re out in the sun. – Sandra