Connie Peters, originally from western Pennsylvania now lives in Southwest Colorado with her husband, son and two adults with developmental disabilities. Her daughter, also a poet, lives in Louisiana.
Connie writes fiction, creative nonfiction, devotions and poetry for adults and children. Her work has appeared in many publications including Focus on the Family’s Thriving Child, Quiet Hour, 2 Cup of Comfort books and 3 Heavenly Humor books. Her poetry was published in Evangel, Cross & Quill, Christian Communicator, Wounded by Words (2008), The Power of Small (2011), Celebrating Christmas (2011), Prompted (2011) and presedentialprayerteam.com.
Connie writes regularly for The Pagosa Sun, Presidential Prayer Team and Adam Colwell’s WriteWorks. She enjoys playing Canasta and Scrabble, and traveling. She has visited all of the continental United States, and has been writing a poem a day since 2004.
Connie’s WEB WEDNESDAY INTERVIEW 1/18/2012
You can read more of her poetry at enthusiasticsoul.blogspot.com.
Connie’s choice of bloom is lilacs.
© All postings and intellectual materials on this page are property of Connie L. Peters.
February 21st, 2012 at 8:20 PM
Prompt #2 Rhythm of the Falling Rain
A Poem
A seed of an idea
Planted in the soil of experience
Watered with wisdom
Growing in the sunshine of creativity
with or without the trellis of poetic form.
February 21st, 2012 at 8:25 PM
Prompt #3 Something good out of something bad
It’ll Get Better
It’ll get better after it’s worse, I know.
When I clean up a room, it goes really slow.
Several hours in, it’s such a disaster.
It looks like I used a dynamite blaster.
I’d like to give up, pack up, and go.
But I know this catastrophe I must master
So I muster some umph and work a bit faster,
wondering if my effort will ever show.
It’ll get better after it’s worse.
So I become organizer and caster
And I clean down to the plaster
Then the room takes on a special glow.
So if life’s storm begins to blow,
you’ll make it, if you’re an out-laster.
It gets better after it’s worse.
February 21st, 2012 at 8:31 PM
Alouette
The Flag Waves
The U. S. flag waves
as it boldly braves
the elements, like the men
who battled before
in many a war,
for freedom, now and again.
It flies strong and true,
the red, white, and blue—
thirteen stripes and fifty stars.
Stars stand for the states.
Stripes –colonies’ mates.
Divine goal—stars, sunrays—bars.
Red—brave, hardiness
White—pure, innocence
Blue—justice, perseverance
Holding to ideals,
resolution seals,
Americans taking stance.
We pledge to be true
to red, white and blue
and to the people who maintain,
united and free,
letting liberty
and justice for all to reign.
February 21st, 2012 at 8:37 PM
Promp #4 Flourishes under nurturing
Faith
F aith grows like a mighty oak.
A n acorn of belief, lies in the fertile earth of the Word
I n the sunshine of God’s love and
T he rain of His Holy Spirit.
H ow slowly it grows, until it’s strong, mighty and unshakeable.
February 21st, 2012 at 8:54 PM
Prompt # 5 photo
Pink Amidst Gray
Chips crumble on decayed wall and fall
Gray catches the eye, sucking you into gloom
Lines like veins run through cracked paint
Rose petals give a touch of beauty and hope
So much like life, so much like poetry
February 22nd, 2012 at 8:26 PM
Prompt # 6 Color
What Color Am I?
Passion, energy
Glowing warmth, friendliness, smiles
Laughs, splashes, sunshine
Friends singing around campfires
Adventure, fun, happiness
Pumpkins, yams, carrots
Tiger lilies, marigolds
Autumn leaves, sunsets
Peaches, kumquats, nectarines
Monarch butterflies, clownfish
February 22nd, 2012 at 9:30 PM
Prompt #7 Poem based on line from famous poet
Let him be rich and weary, that at least,/ If goodness lead him not, yet weariness/ May toss him to my breast. George Herbert—The Pulley
Rich and Weary
Life is a mixed bag
A weaving
A tossed salad of good and bad.
So many blessings!
Miraculous bodies
Beautiful creation to explore
Friends and family
Technological wonders!
And yet, life can be so miserable,
full of pain and trouble.
In the good times, let’s run to Him
and give Him praise and thanksgiving,
so when it’s time to seek Him
for His help, peace and comfort,
we will know the way
and be familiar with His voice.
February 22nd, 2012 at 9:35 PM
Sijo
Forgiveness sets the victim free to live his life in joy.
But pardon also releases the offender from the cage.
You decide between freedom of the soul and bitterness.
February 22nd, 2012 at 10:13 PM
Prompt 8 Never a Cross Word
(Beautiful Bloom)
How I Wrote this Poem
I’m afraid I’m going to be sitting here till morning,
trying to put a scattering of words in a package called a poem.
Maybe the good fairy will come tiptoeing between my neurons,
picking ideas off the shelves like a Christmas shopper
at a well-stocked shopping center,
choosing thoughts as light and strong as aluminum
or soft and comfortable like a quilt and pillow,
piecing together this and that like a dogmatic heretic,
stacking metaphors like Egyptians building pyramids,
willing to rebel against rhyme and reason,
attentive like a concierge looking for a big tip
and then the end stands before me like an open door.
I pocket dreams, fold up my feelings like a camper’s cot,
and run through.
February 22nd, 2012 at 10:29 PM
Prompt 9 Deep Space 9
I Concur
I gaze upon the spinning earth
so overcome with awe.
I’m feeling rather miniscule
before the work of God.
On that blue marble hung in space
in deserts, mountains, bays,
from north to south, east to west,
I explored in many ways.
But of all the things I have done,
no matter where I roam,
I must agree with Dorothy—
There is no place like home!
February 22nd, 2012 at 10:39 PM
Monchielle
I Met Deadline Today
I met deadline today
Just two short articles
Not much more than an inch.
Won’t take much time, I thought,
I’m sure they’ll be a cinch.
I met deadline today
Studied topic at hand.
The first one was a breeze.
So it stands to reason
The next would come with ease.
I met deadline today
So I wrote past midnight.
But the words made no sense.
So I moved things around
And I worked on the tense.
I met deadline today
Took six hundred two words
And I whacked them in half.
So now I will sit back,
rest, and have a good laugh.
February 24th, 2012 at 4:51 PM
Prompt #10 Friends
Red Cliffs
Strong
Beautiful
Fun
Adventurous
My friend Lorraine
February 24th, 2012 at 4:56 PM
Prompt # 11 Good then Bad
As Is
I felt widowed,
alone and abandoned.
You were alive, but
I didn’t know you.
I didn’t know you.
But God did.
He loved us both as is.
And brought you back.
February 24th, 2012 at 5:08 PM
Prompt # 12 Animal, vegatable or mineral
Like gargantuan gray yams,
tapered to a paddle-shaped tail
two flippers in front,
snout that looks like it ran into a brick wall
eyes like two deep holes
a mouth formed in frown,
as if they were once princes and princesses
cursed to drift about underwater
as Manatees.
February 24th, 2012 at 5:12 PM
Prompt #13 Goal-oriented poem
I aspire to lofty heights
and devote much time to doing it right
and along the way having some fun,
but greater by far is getting things done.
February 24th, 2012 at 5:17 PM
Eheree
Deep
Hidden
Secreted
I know You’re there.
I search intently
Delving diligently
Pursuing determinedly
Catching glimpses, spurring me on
Persistently peeling back layers.
Surely I’ll not give up, I will find You.
February 24th, 2012 at 5:21 PM
Prompt #14 Lost and Found
Horsey Sam Came Home
I got him when I was three.
I rode him hard and fast
till little sis came on the scene.
Sturdy and robust, Horsey Sam
could carry two at a time.
Then he was passed on to a nephew
then another. He returned
to trot off with my daughter
then my son, then back east
to a couple of nieces.
My sister visited her grandchildren
living not far from me.
She brought Horsey Sam.
Alas, he’s ready for pasture
so they won’t be able to ride him.
No stand or springs. Reins broken.
Colors mostly worn off.
But he’s strong and solid.
For his fiftieth birthday
I’ll clear off my dresser top for him
to rest perhaps another fifty years
February 27th, 2012 at 9:27 PM
Poesia di Tema
Someday I Would Like to Meet Ted Kooser
Old Ted and I’d have lots to talk about.
Oh, maybe not the place and date of birth,
he from Iowa in 1939
me from P-A in 1958,
but we both lived in Lincoln, Nebraska.
We both word paint the simple things of life
using clear language and plain metaphors.
He didn’t have a lot of time to poem
working his business of life insurance.
Pulitzer winner, Poet Laureate
and Nebraska U-Lincoln professor.
And me a full-time host home provider
who writes a poem a day and blogs away.
A shining example inspires sweet dreams.
February 27th, 2012 at 9:32 PM
Prompt # 15 View from a Park Bench
The park bench
dreamed of simpler times
when it cradled lovers
instead of leaves.
February 27th, 2012 at 9:45 PM
Prompt # 16 Line from a song as title
I Can’t Think of a Thing at All
Oh, it’s happened again.
I stare off into space.
My muse has disappeared
without leaving a trace.
They say it happens to everyone,
writers block will fall.
But what an awful feeling
when thoughts begin to stall.
Oh me , oh my
I can’t think of a thing at all.
Gone are the metaphors,
the passion and the angst.
That temperamental muse,
she’s up to her pranks.
Ideas bounce away
like a red rubber ball.
My poetry writing
has hit a brick wall.
Oh me, oh my
I can’t think of a thing at all.
February 27th, 2012 at 9:49 PM
Promp #17 Changes
Time for a Change
Your spirit is restless each day
You’re wishing to go your own way
Discontent comes in a wide range
So maybe it’s time for a change
What fit like a glove does no more
What once intrigued begins to bore
What was familiar now seems strange
So maybe it’s time for a change
You balance the pros and the cons
Concepts disillusionment spawns
Priorities can rearrange
So maybe it’s time for a change
February 27th, 2012 at 9:51 PM
Sedoka
Jaws
Some things befuddle.
Some I’ll never understand.
Life’s mysteries cause questions.
Over passing years
I often wonder why would
one want to be a dentist?
February 27th, 2012 at 10:08 PM
Prompt # 18 Night Poem
Chapters End
For my nineteenths birthday,
Mom fixed dinner and
my best friend from high school
and the guy next door came
for lasagna and blueberry cheesecake.
Afterwards, we three took a walk,
miles up the back roads and paths
into the State Game Lands.
My neighbor, a hunter,
knew his way around even at night.
To the tune of crickets, peep frogs
and an occasional owl,
three long-time friends
walked through the woods
in the light of the full moon—
laughing, talking and joking,
never once thinking how seldom
we’d be together after that.
My last birthday as a teenager,
a sweet, memorable one.
February 29th, 2012 at 11:28 PM
Prompt # 19 Title and Deed
Why We Write
It could be we’re gluttons for punishment;
we enjoy hearing not quite right, try again.
It could be we’re too shy to speak
so it comes out in some literary form.
Perhaps we’ve nothing better to do
like some people seem to think.
Or maybe God has given us more time
than He has given other people since
that’s the biggest excuse not to write.
Or maybe we think it’s just plain fun
to make tangible the intangible
to move, motivate, inspire, incite
encourage, entertain, help, heal,
teach, taunt, tantalize, turn things around
or just to make someone laugh.
Or maybe there really is a writing bug
that crawls around biting the unsuspecting.
Poets & Writers “Why We Write” Laurie Rachkus Uttich
February 29th, 2012 at 11:53 PM
Novo Otto
Walking in the Rain
Dramatic clouds paint the slate sky
Walking in rainstorm feeling high
Memories near from childhood days
Hail pelts me but I do not mind
A ride may come from someone kind
But I’d refuse it anyways
Home, I brush my tangled, wet hair
Stung, my family shows no care
But my childlike rainy joy stays
March 1st, 2012 at 12:01 AM
Prompt # 20
Photo prompt romance
The Other Side of Romance
As they cuddle there
by the lake
to the tune of crickets,
gentle lapping waves
and quacking ducks,
he thinks of the stars in her eyes,
the glistening of her dark hair,
her soft, silky skin, not
her nagging him to take out the trash,
pantyhose hanging on the curtain rod
or PMS.
She thinks of his deep, baby blues,
the strength of his shoulders,
the warmth of his body against hers, not
Monday night football games,
belches in front of company
shoes to underwear scattered
throughout the house.
That’s why, my dear children,
there’s such thing as
commitment.
March 1st, 2012 at 12:07 AM
Prompt # 21 Surprise
“Beautiful Bloom”
Don’t Be Surprised
Don’t be surprised to hear a monster roar
Sounding like it’s coming through the door
Growling, snarling like a grizzly bear
Catching you completely unaware
Or maybe more like a wild boar
An earthquake shaking you to the core
Or a rumbling train rattling roof to floor
Or a dragon coming from its lair
Don’t be surprised
Curtailing fear may be a chore
With a sound so great, you can’t ignore
I tell you this because I care
This is something I must share
It’s only Pops and his nightly snore
Don’t be surprised
March 1st, 2012 at 12:17 AM
pun-ku
Hesitance
“Why marry?” asks
this generation.
Couples falter
at the alter.
March 1st, 2012 at 12:24 AM
Prompt # 22 Found old photo
This photo is from a past age
Once they see my face on this page
They’ll gossip, conspire,
Brand me a vampire
Like fans did to Nicholas Cage.
March 1st, 2012 at 4:25 PM
Prompt # 23 Use: lonely, energy, headlines, wander, music and joke.
Poetic Reports
My eyes wander over the headlines
of the local paper looking for words
which capture the energy, the music,
the loneliness, the joke of life.
None do. Wouldn’t it be nice
if poets reported the news?
March 1st, 2012 at 4:32 PM
Prompt # 24 Rising to the occassion or falling short
Expression
The fervent pastor paces as he preaches
Back and forth faster as he teaches
Repeating himself to get the point across
Worshipful hearts give birth to praise
Thoughts are good starts but it’s time to raise
Your hands and voices and give thanks for the cross
March 1st, 2012 at 4:35 PM
Prompt #25 Harvest Poem
Planting seeds of hope
Watering with sweat and tears
Reaping with delight
March 1st, 2012 at 4:36 PM
Clerihew
The puppeteer Kevin Clash
With Elmo makes a big splash
If everyone is backing him,
Why do I feel like smacking him?
March 1st, 2012 at 4:42 PM
Prompt #26 Life’s a Little Weird
My Life’s a Little Different
I dry my hair.
He jumps up and down beside me.
I burn my finger.
She laughs.
I vacuum the floor.
He hugs the vacuum cleaner.
We have fun chatting,
even though she can’t talk.
I delight in his music
as he plays the vacuum cleaner hose.
I’m busy writing a novel
and she wants me to arrange
dozens of items on her lap in order.
I shop as I push her in her wheelchair
and he follows behind the cart.
I have to be careful where I put my teabags
so he doesn’t eat them.
I brush my teeth
and I brush theirs.
I do my exercises.
He wants to dance.
I wake up in the morning saying hello
as she says hello back.
I relax in the living room
and in he walks
with his pants around his ankles.
The calendar says October
and she’s ready for Christmas.
I pray in the morning
and he drools on my head.
I try to write a poem
and he barks likes a dog.
Life’s a little weird sometimes.
March 1st, 2012 at 4:46 PM
Prompt # 27 The week that was
Busy Week
Pray the prayers
Deadline’s looming
Write the devotions
Company’s coming
Clean the house
Play some word games
Duo’s up
Make the meals
Pray the prayers
Deadline’s looming
Send in the devotions
Company’s coming
Clean the house
Duo’s hungry
Hear them calling
Cook the meals
Play some word games
Happy Birthday to me
Deadline’s looming
Write the articles
Company’s coming
Clean the house
Need vet interview
Pray the prayers
Deadline’s looming
Work on lesson
Wait for vet to return call
Pray the prayers
Company’s coming
Clean the house
Deadlines’ looming
Company’s coming
Interview the vet
Play some word games
Deadline’s looming
Write the articles
Work on the lesson
Pray the prayers
Company’s coming
Clean the house
Company came
Had a great time
Play some word games
Work on the lesson
Deadline’s looming
Pray the prayers
March 2nd, 2012 at 7:02 PM
Prompt #28 Taxed
Sometimes a Writer has to Write
We’re having no writer’s Christmas party this year.
I forgot to book the church.
Instead I have a novel,
thirty poems,
a writer’s course almost completed.
So my writers group will bring in the new year with a party,
Lord willing.
March 2nd, 2012 at 7:09 PM
Prompt #29 Love Poem
Love Lingers
You sat on the couch
falling asleep.
It was late,
you should go,
but we wouldn’t see each other for a week.
You didn’t want to leave.
I’ve been loved deeply
by God and other people
but I never felt so wanted.
March 2nd, 2012 at 7:15 PM
Prompt #30 Family
Christmas Surprise
A couple years ago,
weeks before Christmas,
I was sitting at the kitchen table,
typing on my laptop,
and I heard someone
coming up the steps outside.
Instead of a knock on the door,
the doorknob turned,
the door opened
and it took a moment
before I believed what I was seeing.
You had said you wouldn’t make
the thirteen hundred miles for Christmas
and you didn’t lie.
You came early.
I guess it’s too much to hope
that it will happen again.
March 2nd, 2012 at 7:18 PM
Prompt #31 Grattitude
I’m Thankful For…
Typing on my laptop
Looking at old photos
Learning and growing
Dancing to rock music
Working until I’m tired
Watching a good movie
The act of remembering
Traveling to a new place
Worshipping God in song
Shannon family reunions
Shopping for a special gift
Our crocheted nativity set
Hiking in the great outdoors
When God answers a prayer
Our tree ornament collection
The sound of rain on the roof
Hugs from a man with autism
My childhood in Pennsylvania
When my writing surprises me
My son’s laugh and helpfulness
A warm blanket on a cold night
Painting with my favorite colors
Playing Scrabble with my sisters
Comfortable jeans and sneakers
A good book and time to read it
When my words touch someone
Chicken and homemade noodles
My husband’s deep voice singing
Climbing at Vedauwoo, Wyoming
My parents who are now in heaven
Belly laughs from a childlike woman
When a Bible verse jumps out at me
Colorado’s blue skies and mountains
A hot cup of tea with cream and sugar
Phone, online and face-to-face friends
Kayaking in a bay or in a mountain lake
Playing online games with my daughter
A gift that says I know and appreciate you
Being able to see, hear, taste, walk and talk
March 2nd, 2012 at 7:19 PM
Limerick
There once was a wealthy countess
Though folks tried, they failed to impress
She’d boss them around
Till one night she drowned
No one in her realm would confess
March 3rd, 2012 at 9:53 PM
Prompt # 32
Traditions
Traditions at a Host Home
Our host home charge,
a childlike woman,
gets so excited about Christmas,
that at the first hint of it,
(usually a store ad in October)
begs to put up the Christmas tree.
In order not to be driven crazy,
we mark the calendar,
the first Saturday after Thanksgiving.
When it arrives, we wheel her
to the living room where she can
inspect the proceedings.
We play Christmas music,
divvy out the eggnog
and she rings her Christmas bell.
Our second host home charge,
a childlike man
who likes noise,
sits on the floor,
facing her, and listens.
After the tree’s up,
our calico cat claims
under the tree
as her special resting place
until she’s crowded out by presents.
March 3rd, 2012 at 9:58 PM
Prompt # 33 Preparation for Christmas
Christmas Preparations Then and Now
I used to get a real tree,
make decorations
and give some to shut-ins
when we caroled.
I used to make presents,
wrap them in paper and bows
and send off packages
and hand written cards
to everyone in the family.
I used to prepare for and attend
parties, pageants and programs.
I used to bake a huge batch
of monster cookies
and pass out plates
of them to friends.
I used to clean the house,
cook a huge turkey dinner
and invite people over.
Now, I have an artificial tree
and use the decorations we have.
Now, I stay home for the most part,
buy gift cards or a few presents
and poke them into Christmas bags.
Now, I type a Christmas letter
and email the ones I can.
Now, I only clean the house enough
to keep the health department away.
Now, for Christmas dinner,
I slow cook a turkey breast
and used canned,
frozen and instant
everything else
just for the immediate family.
Now, I keep it simple
so I can enjoy Christmas
instead of wearing myself out
and wishing it was over.
March 3rd, 2012 at 10:00 PM
Triolet
Off Kilter
My sleeping habits are messed up again
My eating habits, too
Insomnia is not my friend
My sleeping habits are messed up again
It takes its toll in the end
Balance is overdue
My sleeping habits are messed up again
My eating habits, too
March 3rd, 2012 at 10:05 PM
#34 Last Minute Preparations
On His Behalf
I keep forgetting
the guy who carries Mr. M &M around
and hands him to me
expecting pretend M & M kisses
loves his wonderful parents very much
and has no abilities to wish them Merry Christmas.
So I need to make the annual calendar
featuring him each month
so he can, in a way, let them know
he loves them every day.
March 3rd, 2012 at 10:08 PM
Dizain
Spiritual Diet
This year was kind to me yet I’m afraid
I’ve become fat and flabby in my soul
Like hungry man intent on frig to raid
My soul has dipped its fingers in the bowl
It suffers from a lack of self control
It feasted on TV and mindless games
Seduced by the old world’s enticing claims
Instead of on God’s promises and prayer
And exercise the Word, it says in James
My goal’s to shape my soul I so declare
March 3rd, 2012 at 10:11 PM
Prompt #35 Gift Tag
Poets, I give to you encouragement
To reveal life by providing poetic clues
To give wisdom wrapped in word packages
To inspire by letting your imagery candles shine
March 6th, 2012 at 6:07 PM
Prompt #36 Ending Poem
End of the Day
The bare rocky mountain glowed yellow, orange, browns,
basking in the sun like a giant prehistoric lizard,
while pines slipped into the darkness like fleeing prey.
March 6th, 2012 at 6:11 PM
Prompt # 37 Photo prompt
As a lake reflects the golden sun
with a fountain bubbling deep
may I reflect Your Golden Son
with Your Holy Spirit bubbling from within.
March 6th, 2012 at 6:14 PM
Rime Couee
I would never expect to find
in the far outskirts of my mind
thoughts of the unlikeliest kind
as Colorado beach,
but like rare gems are often mined
inspiration’s in reach.
March 6th, 2012 at 6:21 PM
Prompt # 38 Hey, That’s My Line!
Hugs and Funny Faces Are My Fuel to Make Tomorrow Run
Mornings, I say, “Party’s started.”
“It’s off to the races.”
What keeps me going so strong? It’s
Hugs and funny faces
All day long, they lighten my load
In various places
Jokes, teasing and deep belly laughs
Hugs and smiley faces
Evenings, they lend a helping hand
Keeping with the paces
A little rough, but source of strength
Hugs and bearded faces
At night, they sit upon my lap
Seeking my embraces
Purring very contentedly
Hugs and furry faces
Endings by Purplepeninportland Prompt #36
March 6th, 2012 at 6:50 PM
Prompt # 39 Color
Pink
I used to be prejudiced against pink.
You know, fluffy, girly pink.
Ballet slippers
Barbies
Tutus
I wore a lot of blues.
But when I became an artist,
I took a good look at pink.
I painted my walls
a barely-noticeable pink.
My winter jacket’s a pale pink.
My living room’s accented in pink roses.
I like pink, I think.
The other day,
my friend wore a burnt pink leather blazer.
I’m not there yet.
March 6th, 2012 at 6:53 PM
Quatern
Ordinary Death
Yes, death is quite a common thing.
In fact, everyone will die.
Yet, it comes as such a great shock.
We can’t grasp it when it happens.
All experience painful loss.
Yes, death is quite a common thing.
It shakes us to our very core.
We wonder how we can go on.
If we could just see it as good.
If we could admit to ourselves,
“Yes, death is quite a common thing;”
It may become less horrendous.
A graduation, homecoming,
Reward, ending to suffering.
We could be at peace, smile and say,
“Yes, death is quite a common thing.”
March 6th, 2012 at 6:56 PM
Prompt # 40 And I Quote Me
We’re all leaders, but will our followers end up where they want to be?
–Connie L. Peters
A habit
An attitude
An expression
of gratitude
Who we are rubs off on others.
A smile
An act of giving
An example
A style of living
Who we are rubs off on others.
A hug
Calming fear
A favor
A listening ear
Who we are rubs off on others.
March 6th, 2012 at 7:14 PM
Prompt # 41 Old
Old Book
Pages, smudged and yellow
Binding, loose
Copyright 1927, price two dollars
Electric Refrigerator Recipes and Menus
Specially Prepared for General Electric Refrigerator.
Author Miss Alice Brady extols
the advantages of the electric refrigerator,
with so many possibilities she compares
it to a magic Aladdin’s lamp, and
not knowing which way to rub it.
She assures readers “the refrigerator
requires no attention, not even oiling,
and is surprisingly easy to keep clean”
and “offers health and happiness
to homemakers across America.”
I can picture my Great Aunt Ruth
bustling about the big box
now taking up a corner of her kitchen,
wondering what they will think of next.
What would she have thought of the PC?
March 6th, 2012 at 7:19 PM
Prompt # 42 Moral Poem
Starting Small
Two children pled with Mom and Dad
Please, can we have some mice?
“They’re so small, no trouble at all
And such a bargain price. “
At last, their parents said okay.
They told the clerk, “Be sure
They’re brothers OR sisters because
We don’t want any more.”
The kids took their tiny friends home,
Cared for them with a smile.
But Mom knew the pet man was wrong,
After a little while.
One mouse’s tummy got bigger.
And then early one morn,
The kids peeked in the cage, with shock,
Seeing ten mice were born.
Taking care of a dozen mice
Didn’t seem quite as fun.
To make things worse, the mice got out.
They had to catch each one.
It didn’t seem like much time passed
Till the mice family grew.
Now there were aunts, uncles, cousins
And some grand children, too.
The two children couldn’t keep up
With the chores to be done.
Taking care of so many mice
Had set them on the run.
After mouse fifty-two, Mom said,
“We’ve got a mess I fear.
They’re dirty, stinky and smelly.
Get these mice out of here!”
So they boxed up the little mice
sadly, by the dozens:
Sons, daughters, brothers and sisters
Aunts, uncles and cousins.
Temptation may look thrilling but
you may need to confess,
though it may seem harmless fun, it
May end up a big mess!
March 6th, 2012 at 7:22 PM
Prompt 43 Photo Prompt
Then and Now
Running barefoot through the grass
Splashing in cold creek water
Whirling on a tire swing in the shade
Scrambling up and sliding down hills
Climbing trees
That used to be a recipe for fun.
Now we have our children
play in the hot sun and gravel
and let them slow bake.
March 6th, 2012 at 7:25 PM
Trolaan
Having a Ball
May as well take a risk, she said with a sigh.
Might be our last chance to do this after all.
Must, sooner or later, all up and die.
May as well go while having a ball.
After she said this, we leaped from the plane.
Air rushed by us, as we fell toward the ground.
And I wondered, by this time, if we were both insane.
As I said my prayers on the way down.
Falling so fast, it was now time.
Fingers quickly found the life saving chord.
For a moment I thought things were just fine.
Fine, I knew now, wasn’t the word.
Amazing to think what my last thoughts were,
As I bolted past her as she floated along.
A risk? Having a ball? Maybe for her.
Ah, but for me something went wrong.
March 6th, 2012 at 7:30 PM
Prompt # 44 Traveling
It Would Have Been a Vacation
It would have been a vacation.
Packed bags, airplane flight, eating out,
staying at a hotel, shopping,
and getting away from it all.
Seeing old friends, meeting new ones.
It would have been a vacation.
Family sharing memories,
looking over old photographs.
Lots of hugs, eating, listening.
Together, working toward a goal.
It would have been a vacation,
but there was one person missing.
We helped bear the weight of her grief,
which cruelly threatened to crush her.
If the warehouse hadn’t fallen,
it would have been a vacation.
Orlando Vacation
My daughter and I did Orlando
after her college graduation.
Sea World, The Epcot Center,
Universal Studios, The Blue Man Group,
an Arabian Knight show.
The weather wasn’t warm
or cold, it was as if Florida
thought that the other states
would be jealous if it got too hot
so it made its guests
keep their sweaters on.
Decorated Christmas trees
stood by Micky Mouse shaped hedges.
Christmas carols played on loud speakers
giving it an other-worldly feeling.
By the time we headed east
toward the Kennedy Space Center,
we were exhausted and ready to go home.
We would have skipped it
if we hadn’t already purchased
the tickets. So glad we went.
The IMAX Hubbell Space program
was the highlight of the trip for me.
Truly looking at other worlds.
Feeling very small.
Overwhelmed, with the thought
that despite human puniness
God still loves us.
North Dakota
Driving down long stretches touchng the sky
Fields of canola greet you from the side
Beaming yellow smiles as you pass them by
No more cars in sight, looking far and wide
Plain, but North Dakota does have its Pride
Helping businesses market their fine wares
Soaps, candles, berry jams, cards, barn wood chairs
A land of Sioux and Teddy Roosevelt
Unique rock formations and teddy bears
Its strong, enduring spirit clearly felt
March 6th, 2012 at 8:28 PM
Prompt # 44A Traveling
It Would Have Been a Vacation
It would have been a vacation.
Packed bags, airplane flight, eating out,
staying at a hotel, shopping,
and getting away from it all.
Seeing old friends, meeting new ones.
It would have been a vacation.
Family sharing memories,
looking over old photographs.
Lots of hugs, eating, listening.
Together, working toward a goal.
It would have been a vacation,
but there was one person missing.
We helped bear the weight of her grief,
which cruelly threatened to crush her.
If the warehouse hadn’t fallen,
it would have been a vacation.
March 6th, 2012 at 8:30 PM
Prompt # 44 B Travel
Orlando Vacation
My daughter and I did Orlando
after her college graduation.
Sea World, The Epcot Center,
Universal Studios, The Blue Man Group,
an Arabian Knight show.
The weather wasn’t warm
or cold, it was as if Florida
thought that the other states
would be jealous if it got too hot
so it made its guests
keep their sweaters on.
Decorated Christmas trees
stood by Micky Mouse shaped hedges.
Christmas carols played on loud speakers
giving it an other-worldly feeling.
By the time we headed east
toward the Kennedy Space Center,
we were exhausted and ready to go home.
We would have skipped it
if we hadn’t already purchased
the tickets. I’m so glad we went.
The IMAX Hubbell Space program
was the highlight of the trip for me.
Truly looking at other worlds.
Feeling very small.
Overwhelmed, with the thought
that despite human puniness
God still loves us.
March 6th, 2012 at 8:32 PM
Prompt # 44 B Traveling
Orlando Vacation
My daughter and I did Orlando
after her college graduation.
Sea World, The Epcot Center,
Universal Studios, The Blue Man Group,
an Arabian Knight show.
The weather wasn’t warm
or cold, it was as if Florida
thought that the other states
would be jealous if it got too hot
so it made its guests
keep their sweaters on.
Decorated Christmas trees
stood by Micky Mouse shaped hedges.
Christmas carols played on loud speakers
giving it an other-worldly feeling.
By the time we headed east
toward the Kennedy Space Center,
we were exhausted and ready to go home.
We would have skipped it
if we hadn’t already purchased
the tickets. So glad we went.
The IMAX Hubbell Space program
was the highlight of the trip for me.
Truly looking at other worlds.
Feeling very small.
Overwhelmed, with the thought
that despite human puniness
God still loves us.
March 9th, 2012 at 8:53 PM
Prompt # 44 Traveling/Vacation 2
Orlando Vacation
My daughter and I did Orlando
after her college graduation.
Sea World, The Epcot Center,
Universal Studios, The Blue Man Group,
an Arabian Knight show.
The weather wasn’t warm
or cold, it was as if Florida
thought that the other states
would be jealous if it got too hot
so it made its guests
keep their sweaters on.
Decorated Christmas trees
stood by Micky Mouse shaped hedges.
Christmas carols played on loud speakers
giving it an other-worldly feeling.
By the time we headed east
toward the Kennedy Space Center,
we were exhausted and ready to go home.
We would have skipped it
if we hadn’t already purchased
the tickets. So glad we went.
The IMAX Hubbell Space program
was the highlight of the trip for me.
Truly looking at other worlds.
Feeling very small.
Overwhelmed, with the thought
that despite human puniness
God still loves us.
March 9th, 2012 at 8:58 PM
Orlando Vacation
My daughter and I did Orlando
after her college graduation.
Sea World, The Epcot Center,
Universal Studios, The Blue Man Group,
an Arabian Knight show.
The weather wasn’t warm
or cold, it was as if Florida
thought that the other states
would be jealous if it got too hot
so it made its guests
keep their sweaters on.
Decorated Christmas trees
stood by Micky Mouse shaped hedges.
Christmas carols played on loud speakers
giving it an other-worldly feeling.
By the time we headed east
toward the Kennedy Space Center,
we were exhausted and ready to go home.
We would have skipped it
if we hadn’t already purchased
the tickets. So glad we went.
The IMAX Hubbell Space program
was the highlight of the trip for me.
Truly looking at other worlds.
Feeling very small.
Overwhelmed, with the thought
that despite human puniness
God still loves us.
March 9th, 2012 at 9:01 PM
North Dakota
Driving down long stretches touchng the sky
Fields of canola greet you from the side
Beaming yellow smiles as you pass them by
No more cars in sight, looking far and wide
Plain, but North Dakota does have its Pride
Helping businesses market their fine wares
Soaps, candles, berry jams, cards, barn wood chairs
A land of Sioux and Teddy Roosevelt
Unique rock formations and teddy bears
Its strong, enduring spirit clearly felt
March 9th, 2012 at 9:06 PM
Prompt # 45 Fear
Looming
I can never think of those three words.
Whenever I’m talking to friends
I have to halt the conversation
and say, “You know
the organization in each town
that helps visitors know the area
and its businesses thrive.
And then someone supplies
the correct phrase.
And then I always think of my dad
saying “car starters” for keys,
“bottle that talks” for phone,
“thing you push” for lawn mower.
He had Alzheimer’s.
Chamber of Commerce
Chamber of Commerce
Chamber of Commerce
March 9th, 2012 at 9:31 PM
Prompt # 46 Genesis
In Each Other’s Arms
You and me in each other’s arms
Making promises we can’t keep
Learning what heals and harms
Mesmerized by a love so new
Captivated by each other’s charms
Lying in a tumbled heap
You and me in each other’s arms
Trying not to make a peep
The buzzing hive no longer swarms
Sister’s in bed, brother, too
Nightly noise raises alarms
Listening for patter of little feet
You and me in each other’s arms
The roots of our love growing deep
Resting here soothes and warms
Through the years we stay true
Finding shelter through the storms
Contented with the life we reap
After In Bed the Kiss by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec
March 11th, 2012 at 12:01 PM
In Form, not prompt 46
March 11th, 2012 at 12:00 PM
Prompt # 46 Successful self to present self
Shooting Past the Stars
You took the path unbeaten.
Not much fruit you’ve eaten.
But you weren’t a cretin,
you loved along the way.
You worked in little bits.
You didn’t call it quits.
In spite of all your fits,
you took the time to pray.
And now you’ve made a name.
You’re basking in your fame,
but your goal’s still the same;
it’s to hear Him say,
“Good and faithful one
You obeyed my Son,
so I say well done.”
That’s your hope today.
March 18th, 2012 at 12:31 PM
Prompt # 47 Spring
As I Was Walking
The sun made my skin smile,
the brilliant sky delighted my eyes
and the soft scented breeze
tickled my nose.
I wanted to laugh out loud,
sing praise songs
at the top of my lungs
and dance in the street.
At that moment,
I was homesick for heaven
where I would be free
to do all of those things.
Yes, there is a heaven!
For if there was no home,
how would my soul
know to be homesick?
March 25th, 2012 at 4:16 PM
PARALLELOGRAM DE CRYSTALLINE
Mum
My mother
Large, lovely brown doe eyes
Ebony hair and cherry-red lips
Her kindness
Like a stout, shady tree
Providing a cool, peaceful shelter
Inner strength
A mountain of boulders
On which her five daughters depended
Her patience
A tranquil bubbling stream
Steady, continual refreshing
March 25th, 2012 at 4:18 PM
Prompt # 48 In the Shadows
Shadow Dance
What if?
the shadows
of our thoughts
were depicted on a screen
behind us as we walked along?
I have a feeling
we’d stay in our homes
and not come out.
But God sees the shadows.
He knows and still loves.
Lord, may my shadow dance
be pleasing to You.
And, sorry, when it isn’t.
July 26th, 2012 at 4:51 PM
Some things are a mystery
Unexplainable
Like where is prompt 49?
July 26th, 2012 at 4:58 PM
Ah, here it is..Prompt #49 “Sometimes I Wear a Cape”
If I Had a Super Cape
Oh, if I had a super cape
Like bird in flight so free
I’d sail away to Mozambique
And I’d be home by tea
I’d stomp grand grapes in Sicily
I’d see the Louvre in France
I’d twirl with whirling dervishes
And with “where’s Matt” I’d dance
But with a cape I couldn’t go
One moment back in time
To dine with lords and ladies fair
In castles on the Rhine
Neither could I see future worlds
Or meet strange aliens
Or skip along with Dorothy
And greet her three odd friends
I couldn’t visit Narnia
Meet Fagin and his crooks
And so forget the super cape
I’d rather have my books
July 26th, 2012 at 5:01 PM
Tanka
The Way It Is
One hundred percent
Mom, I say. Though my daughter’s
thirty, my desire
for her well being and bright
future never goes away.
July 28th, 2012 at 2:33 PM
Prompt # 50 Making a Comeback
Come Back
C ome back. I know you have to go your
O wn way. Come back, though I know you’re not here to stay.
M ay you find all you’re looking for,
E verything you want and so much more.
B ut come back and visit for awhile.
A nd share some moments and a smile.
C ome back so I won’t be so blue. I’ll
K eep you in my prayers until you do.
July 28th, 2012 at 2:40 PM
Prompt #51 It Makes Sense
It Doesn’t Make Sense to My Senses
Eighty degrees in Phoenix,
the desert landscape
decorated with pinks, yellows, purples
of queen’s wreath and bougainvillea,
their light fragrance stifled by traffic fumes.
Then up the hill through
fields of tall, thick saguaro
lifting their three to five or so arms
in salutation. And then
flashing signs on Arizona mountains
warning motorists of winter weather.
Switching off the AC, careful on the black ice,
but my eyes lingering as long as possible
on snowy cover, bright blue sky and tall pines.
Then popping out on lower ground,
reddish orange earth
contrasting pale blue sky
with whip cream clouds hovering low.
Then other worldly rock formations
pale gray monoliths, red, then sandy mesas.
Then back to where the mountains
meet the desert in Southwest Colorado,
the sky uncharacteristically gray,
with the smell of rain in the air.
This morning, I restart my life
where sunshine from the east
and clouds in the west
seem to dare each other.
July 28th, 2012 at 2:45 PM
In Form– Tri Fall
July 28th, 2012 at 2:50 PM
Prompt #52 From Every Ending Comes a Beginning
Judgment
You can spend a whole life learning to appreciate
the positives and overlook the negatives
of self and others. Like, a train chugging
down the wrong track, critical evaluation
of a person’s motives and value builds
up speed and is hard to stop. A commitment
to love, in spite of it all, un-derails.
July 28th, 2012 at 2:55 PM
Prompt #52 Returning to the Soil
The Spider
A spider has its place in life
Though it has its limits
To catch those pesky flies,
With a web like frost on glass
Its silken thread glistens in moonlight
As the spider guards its seed
The spider goes about being a spider
With no glimpse of the big picture
July 28th, 2012 at 2:59 PM
Gardening with Dad
Tommy trailed Dad down garden rows
He watched Dad plant each tiny seed
He longed to see how a plant grows
That would explain his naughty deed
He watched Dad plant each tiny seed
His plan seemed right just at the time
That would explain his naughty deed
Felt innocent of any crime
His plan seemed right just at the time
To take a look see underground
Felt innocent of any crime
As Tommy plunged his shovel down
To take a look see underground
We’re just the same way with God’s plans
As Tommy plunged his shovel down
With worry we too upturn plants
We’re just the same way with God’s plans
We question how His Word comes true
With worry we too upturn plants
And what a childish thing to do!
We question how His Word comes true
Instead of trusting in His grace
And what a childish thing to do!
Let’s keep His promises in place
So let us trust in His good grace
And follow Dad down garden rows
Let’s keep His promises in place
And see how each plant surely grows
July 28th, 2012 at 3:03 PM
Ooops Prompt 53
July 28th, 2012 at 3:08 PM
In Form — Panteoum
July 28th, 2012 at 3:16 PM
Prompt # 54 Playing Favorites
Fly Away Home
These fleeting days on earth go round and round
And weeks fly by like speedsters down the track
And even months pass in ways that astound
And years shoot forth and never will come back
And like contestants on cheesy game shows
We race the clock trying to get things done
And what we win nobody even knows
So some suggest we’re in it for the fun
A voice of love and reason softly calls
And says the way has already been made
From dawn of time He understood the falls
And by His Son the price has all been paid
Like honeybees so headed for their comb
May we be ready to fly away home.