Checkmate

The poem “Checkmate” depicts a power struggle between the White King and the Black Queen, symbolized through a chess game. The author, Colleen Keller Breuning, shares personal experiences and reflections after a trip to Florida. The piece was inspired by a chess picture and references the Queen’s Gambit series. The author also expresses gratitude for family blessings.

Beautiful Things

The post captures the beauty of nature and the joy of family. The author shares her emotional reaction to the beauty around her, reflecting on past memories and treasuring time with loved ones. She announces the arrival of her grandchild and describes the heartwarming moments spent with family. The post conveys gratitude and love for the precious moments and the blessings of family.

Pink Flamingos

The poet muses on the attention-seeking nature of pink flamingos, inspired by a trip to see them in the wild. The whimsical rhyming series captures their vibrant beauty, set against a backdrop of tangerine skies. The poet’s personal connection and upcoming travel plans add a warm, relatable touch to the lighthearted composition.

Sunshine

The content is about the author’s anticipation of a family visit to Florida, particularly to surprise her grandkids. The author reflects on her grandchildren’s personalities and expresses nostalgia for their growth. She shares her excitement and love for her family, emphasizing the upcoming trip and the joy it will bring.

Wind Dreamer

The poem “Wind Dreamer” depicts the speaker’s longing for freedom and solace amidst personal struggles. The imagery of dancing on the wind and embracing the sun reflects a desire for escape. The author, Colleen Keller Breuning, expresses frustrations with technology, weather, and pet antics, highlighting the challenges she faces. Despite these difficulties, the speaker maintains hope and sends love to the readers.

A Summer Dirge

The poet laments the relentless summer heat and longing for the arrival of autumn. The scorching weather has taken a toll, affecting both her surroundings and her state of mind. She shares personal updates and wishes her mother a happy 87th birthday. The poem reflects the impact of weather on emotions and daily life.

I Love You in Three Languages

The content describes memorable experiences in Paris, Rome, and at home, expressing love and gratitude for the author’s husband. Despite recent challenges, the author reflects on the blessings in life, especially her loving partner. The piece is dedicated to the husband, expressing deep appreciation for their journey together.

Ship Without A Sail

The post reflects the author’s emotional exhaustion after attending a cousin’s funeral. The poem “Ship Without a Sail” symbolizes feeling lost and directionless. Despite the hardships, the author emphasizes the importance of loving deeply and living life to the fullest as a form of sage advice for coping with life’s difficulties.

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.