Sound Man

The poem “Sound Man” pays tribute to the late Steve Crumbacker, a cherished cousin renowned for his multifaceted talents. The author reminisces about shared childhood memories and highlights Steve’s roles as a Nascar photographer, musician, and sound engineer. The profound impact of music on Steve’s life is emphasized, along with his affectionate and mischievous nature. The author expresses deep love and condolences, encapsulating the sentiment that “Music will wash away all your sorrow.”

Bloody Lane

The writer reflects on the haunting history of Antietam Battlefield, where her ancestor fought. She vividly recalls the battlefield’s landmarks and the stories that fascinated her and her daughter. Visits to historic battlefields like Antietam and Gettysburg evoke a chilling sense of the past. Despite the tragedy, the writer looks forward to family gatherings and exploring more historic sites.

Begin Again

The poem “Begin Again” reflects on heartbreaking experiences and loss, inspired by recent tragic news. The author, Colleen Keller Breuning, shares her emotional response to the sudden death of a coworker’s husband and a client’s husband. She contemplates the challenge of moving forward after such devastating loss, emphasizing the preciousness of life.

Just This Once

Just This Once I hear the whistle of a distant train,an echo at the end of a long day.A light snow falls against the windowpane,from dark mottled skies of purple and gray. Upon the mantel sits a vintage vase,wilted flowers filled with sorrow and rue.My eyes blur, drawn into the torrid blaze,my mind flooding withContinue reading “Just This Once”

Washed Out to Sea

The poem “Washed Out” reflects on loss and longing as the speaker remembers her father’s passing. The upcoming anniversary of his death weighs heavily on her heart, but she also treasures the memories of their time together. The poem captures her deep love and admiration for her father, drawing on nostalgic moments and her enduring sorrow.

Ode to a Trucker

The poem “Ode to a Trucker” reflects on the open road and the challenges of long journeys. The author also shares personal updates and reflections on their hectic work schedule. The piece pays homage to truckers and relates the theme of being stuck to the struggles of daily life.

The Art of Letting Go

The Art of Letting Go painunwindshold me tightfingers entwinedthroughout the long nightas fear churns through my mindawaken me from bad dreamsquiet my screams as darkness fallsgrotesque shadows dance upon my wallsthe light at the end of the tunnel glowsthe point of no return, nobody knowsthough grains of sand are trickling fastour opportunities have passedalbeit throughContinue reading “The Art of Letting Go”

Sacred Sabbath

Sacred Sabbath As rain lashed the darkness,I woke to the sound of fear,panic rising in my chest,heart pounding in my ears. Terror plays out in real timehorrific images across the news.Twisted truths and hatredspreading like an ugly bruise. Did I miss something here,did something go astray?Evil reared its ugly headon this sacred Sabbath day. AngerContinue reading “Sacred Sabbath”

Astray

Astray Bitter winds rustle through the trees,a longing starts deep within mefor light that breaks the darkest days.The autumn sun has gone astray. I want the gold dust from your eyesto warm my bones in turquoise skies.Birdsong chittering in the fray,the autumn sun has gone astray. There’s no more wishes in the well,no hidden secretsContinue reading “Astray”

Lucky Charms

Lucky Charms Goldsunlighton watersaquamarineembryonic warmthseafoam between my toesI reach my arms to the seamy thoughts ramble and turn to yousummer breezes and rocking chairscrashing ocean waves, music to our earsbeachcombing, scooping fingers snag treasuresscallops, lightning whelk and fighting conchmollusks covered in silken mossseashells bring sweet memoriesgrateful for your presencecounting my blessingsas I hold closemy preciousluckycharmsContinue reading “Lucky Charms”