June 11, 2025

Congratulations to Devon Bedor of Lyndon, Vermont, who has been honored with the 2025 Vermont Writers’ Prize in poetry for his beautiful and heartfelt piece, “Sowing Season.” Hosted by Green Mountain Power and Vermont Magazine, the prestigious contest recognized Devon for his moving reflection on the tension between everyday responsibilities and the longing for peace and beauty in nature.

A fifth-generation Vermonter, Devon is not only a talented writer but also a dedicated machinist and small business owner. Despite a busy schedule and working multiple jobs, Devon has nurtured a lifelong passion for writing—a creative outlet he humbly considered just a hobby until now. “Sowing Season” marks his first formal submission to a writing contest, making this achievement even more special.

One particularly inspiring note from Devon’s journey is the gratitude he expressed toward his 8th-grade humanities teacher, Tammi Parker of Lyndon Town School. “My 8th grade teacher got me into short stories and poetry,” Devon shared, crediting Ms. Parker with planting the seed that eventually grew into his love of writing.

Ms. Parker was deeply moved to hear Devon remembered her influence. She recalled his vivid imagination and creative journal entries, saying she’s honored to have played a role in his story.

This win is a testament not only to Devon’s talent and hard work, but also to the powerful, lasting impact a great teacher can have. Congratulations, Devon—we can’t wait to see where your writing takes you next!

“Sowing Season”  by Devon Bedor

(originally published in Vermont Magazine, Summer/Fall 2025, Courtesy Old Mill Road Media)

I don’t want a lawn.

I want a yard of lupins.

So I can cut paths through them,

And still get lost in this little town.

I want a bank of creeping phlox.

So I can walk up their pillow tops in bare feet,

And look down onto my sea of color.

I want the chickens to follow me up.

I want my lover to be waiting up there for me,

With a blanket and a bottle of wine.

I want weekends off.

So I can be a cliche,

And have time to stop and smell the flowers.

I want all this,

But I still have four hours left on this shift,

At this second job.

Tomorrow will be my first day off in two weeks,

And I’m thinking…

I’ll plant some seeds.

Click here to view the full article published by Andrew McGregor from the Caledonian Record.