More Than Just A Story In A Book: poetry

Showing posts with label poetry. Show all posts

Friday, November 30, 2012

More Words about Words and the Stories That They Tell

I thought I would write a little more before I called it a night. I have been thinking back to two years ago. I knew little to nothing about publishing books but tried to learn as much as I could. I felt desperate to have the chance to try with the things that I had written to see pages become books.

I had the two novels in print form and worked to make them into ebooks. My family encouraged me to turn the poem/story I had written so many years before into a children's book. My husband could hardly wait to see it as a book. He had seen the way it affected people of all ages through the years. I have said it is a little book with a long reach.

I still have to smile as I think back so long ago with what inspired the story to begin with. Our boys were young and came home from school complaining that they were having to study poetry in school. They seemed to feel abused with the very thought. I laughed and asked them why? When they explained that all poetry was awful and went on to make faces and comments I explained that poetry can tell a story or create feelings and emotions. Poetry can do so many things you would never realize.

They scoffed and gave me one of their little boy looks of disbelief. We were out in the yard at the time and I thought of the bonfires we had had and how much they loved stories. I decided to write a scary story in a poem.

I tried to do more than that. I tried to write a little poem that could be used by people of all ages and in different ways with every line of the poem. When read simply it entertains young children but does not really scare them when at the end it mentions it might have been a dream. It does however open the door to communication of all different subjects from fears such as fear of the dark to dreams that might cause fear.

I love when I talk to the children and read the story. After I read it they always begin to ask questions, tell their own thoughts, express fears or feelings and more.

I remember on time I read it to a whole class of first graders. When a whole class sits quietly the whole time I consider that a great compliment to hold their interest. My grandson was in the class too and it warmed my heart when he came up and put his arm around me and said "This is MY Grandma!"

When I had finished reading the questions and comments brought the room to life. I had a wonderful time. I love to see the expressions on their faces and hear the excitement in their voices. When I see their eyes light up it always makes me smile.

I explained that I bet they knew making good grades was important. They all agreed. I told them there was something even more important. Several of them frowned and looked confused. Finally one of them asked what that was. "To learn... You don't realize it yet but your teacher is giving you a gift that will last you whole life. She is giving you something special that will be like magic helping you to do things you could never dream of with out that gift."

They could hardly wait to find out what the gift was. The gift of learning opens doors to the world and gives you a chance to reach out and be more than you ever dreamed in the first grade. What they learned was more than a grade on the paper.... it is a gift in life.

We talked about writing. I showed them the novels too. They all agreed that they could never do anything like that. I told them that my grandson and I were working on a book together. A story has a beginning, middle and end.

I worked to do the art work with pastels and charcoal and hoped to bring the characters to life. I wanted the pictures to have appeal and depth but still carry a child like fun aspect to the characters and scenes. I did many of the pages so in book form the left page was a picture but it flowed and matched the page on the right to give a full scene.

Every page in the book is a full page art work. It took a lot of work and time but I love the way it turned out.

There are aspects of the simple little story that allow the parent to teach in many ways. The sights of the field in the day as compared to the view at night was a fun project many little ones have found fun and a source that initiated many conversations with them sharing thoughts, feelings, fears, and questions. I have known many children who were afraid of the dark. When the story speaks of shadows cast in the moon light, I have seen the look of surprise as I showed a child the beauty of the night. Is it dark outside? Yes….and no…especially if the moon is full on a clear night filled with stars sparkling to infinity. It is not so much that the night is dark as it is different degrees of the light and what we can ind is not nearly as fearsome as they thought.

The witch does cause freight. She and her sister are so ugly, dress differently, and act differently but at the end we realize that neither of the witches did any harm. Different is often something that others fear but it is not always bad.

Halloween is a time for fun when the children can delight in a safe scary story or tale to be told and retold. This is a tale they can enjoy for years to come and they would be able to see different things in the simple words as they grew older or experienced more things in life.

At one point a young man we knew visited. I could tell he had something on his mind. I read the story to the younger children and saw a frown and look on his face that I recognized showing there were things he wanted to share.

Later as the children roasted their hot dogs we stepped off to the side and he smiled. "I know you have said the little story was something we never really out grow, because it can have meaning more than we realize. I see so much more in it now than ever before. When I used to hear the first line about it was the dark of night and the moon shone bright casting shadows on things below.... I used to think that was all it was saying. Now I think about my life and realize there are shadows sometimes and it is really hard to know what is waiting in the future. Sometimes it can seem really dark." He went on as if it had opened a flood gate talking from his heart line by line applying the little poem to life, and comparing it from when he had first heard it as a young child and then as it held meaning to him being a young adult.

By the time the evening was over he seemed somewhat relieved. He seemed to have worked his way through finding his own answers to some questions he never had to ask as he contemplated the meaning the different lines one by one.

When we were working to clean the limbs from our back yard we often would light a fire and roast hotdogs and marshmallows. It was years later when our children were grown before they realized we were actually cleaning the yard. I had to laugh at them when they realized it. At a family reunion they were all gathered talking when I saw them looking at me and laughing. When I questioned them my daughter finally admitted "Mom, all those years we thought we were having bonfires and we were really cleaning the yard. I never saw it until after the ice storm and we had gathered the broken branches in a pile and I could hear you saying...If we only had a few branches we could have a bonfire and roast hot dogs. We raced to get as many as we could."

I had to laugh and explained a little more. "If I had told you all to clean the yard, I can only imagine how much enthusiasm I would see. My way the yard was clean, we had a bonfire, I did not have to cook supper and we did have some really good times."

We always had extra children visit. We would often have the grill fired up and a whole yard full by the time we lit the fire. I loved to get their imagination going and often would think up a story or two to tell. Then I would tell them it was their turn. We would play a little game I had made up and called pass it on.

There is wooded area around our yard so it was easy to start it out with "A long time ago in some woods just like these....(Pause for affect and make it a little more spooky gazing out into the woods) A boy and girl walked down a path like that little on right there. As they walked deeper into the woods do you know what they saw?"

Usually by then all eyes were either on me or the woods as they shook their heads no and one would ask what they saw. I would laugh and tell them I had no idea. "It's your turn. What did they see when they walked down the path in the woods?"

One by one they would go around the circle telling a little piece of the story they made up until it was time to let the next one take over and tell a little more. They passed the story from one to the next until it finally came to an end.

I loved to see the way their eyes would light up as they became a part of it and realized they were making a story. They could do it too. Words can have power in more than just what they tell but also in what they inspire.

I have it in my mind to never give up. I could hardly wait to work revising and editing the next novel I have written I want to publish called Danny.

I am still not sure about the cover??????

A young child trapped in a nightmare life had a special friend. His friend told him, that he could call him Danny. Danny was his only friend. No one but Steven could see or hear Danny. Was Danny a friendly ghost there protecting, or was there more to this entity than anyone might suspect? Steven began to think Danny might be a Guardian Angel but angel or evil…only time would tell….. because Steven would tell no one and betray his friend, and that friend was there to stay.
          Steven eventually made two new friends at school who shared so much in their disturbed and distraught family lives. They were about to share more as things began to occur beyond their control.
           Sneaking through the darkness of night, Steven went to his friend Jimmy’s house. The drama that occurred at Jimmy’s house was mild compared to the conclusion of the activities he had left behind.
          Tragedy and chaos, murder and an end to life as Steven had known, erupted in his household in the dark of night.
           They found themselves speeding down the highway with a man of questionable character as they left a life behind that felt like a nightmare with no hope. Where they would go was a question only the future and life could answer. The real life nightmare they left was more than they could imagine as the night of changes swiftly developed in all directions.

         Three young boys fled in the night. It was a night that would change their lives forever. If it was a new beginning or a nightmare of a different kind, only time would tell….and we can not forget Danny. He would not want to be left behind. “You can call me Danny.”

I could hardly wait but then a strange thing happened. I felt compelled to write a book I never wanted or intended to write that was nonfiction. I felt I had to share some of my own story. I needed to find words for things I could hardly think about let alone talk about. I wanted to find words for feelings that could still make me cry. I had to find a way to explain things that were feelings, fears, hopes and dreams. Since I still do not know what my own future will be and we never know the number of our days I did not feel I could wait. If I could write from the heart and it helped even one other person to see hope and not give up the book would be worth it. Even when I talk about writing the book it evokes emotions for me. The hour is late and I am very tired so I think I will continue this tomorrow. Tomorrow is not only a new day but a day to mark not only my birth but a new beginning. I think of each and every day as a special day for new beginnings and who knows what we will find. I will be back. I am determined to share the passion of my heart about the project of my writing. I Will Not Give Up...Not Today... Life Is A Journey..    and so it is and so I titled the book that is me.

Sunday, May 13, 2012

Mother's Day

Me and my mother...a few years ago

Happy Mother's Day to all. I am going to try to do something special. I am going to share some poetry on my blog today that I wrote long ago. I was just telling a friend that one of them, I made up the music and actually sang it to my children when they were young. I had a porch swing and I often would sit with the baby in my arms and as I sang my little song they quieted and slowly drifted off to sleep. Maybe it was the song but then again, it might have been the swinging motion of the porch swing. I like to think it was my song....lol Someday I may find a way to make a youtube with the little song. I sang it for my grandson when he was small too. The words can be changed at one point... Your momma she loves you and your daddy does too... or... Your grandma she loves you and grandpa does too....or Uncle Bob and Aunt Mary or anyone there for the little one. I really wish I could still sing but those years are long gone.

For all of the mothers and grandmothers and those who were like mothers to others I wish you happy Mother's Day here and everywhere. Everyday should be mother's day and father's day that we never forget to say "I love you."

Instead of me telling you about them I will hope you find somethings special in the words as they are.....

Mother’s Day

My Mother and Grandparents

Momma have we told you our hearts are filled with love,
We are grateful we belong to you and thank the Lord above?
Always you have sacrificed and given us your best.
Many are the times you’ve worked, so hard to give us rest.
And when we’re sick you comfort, your love and strength uphold.
Many of the times you give happiness are thought of but untold.

Now we want to take the time and speak straight from the heart,
But to say in words just why we love you would only be a start.
How can words explain the warmth of your mother’s comforting arms,
Or the quiet way her strength somehow protects us from all harms?
Can you explain the love of a family in times of growing and strife?
Can you explain the bond that exists as we walk our paths through life?

Sometimes we don’t measure up to the children we should be
Your faith is unfailing and you show how you care through the love you’ve shown to me.

Baby Says To Grandma

Grandma, I want to say so much, but in words Mom has to write.

Try as I may, the words I can’t say, but they shine in my eyes so bright.

Let me tell what a Grandma is, to a child as small as me.

She means joy and laughter and good times all, and all the love there can be.

Grandma’s somehow never seem to mind when our bottoms become so full,

And always forgiving the little things done, we know we shouldn’t do.

Grandma’s feed us good things to eat, tasting so good we delight.

Somehow things always taste much better, when Grandma feeds each bite.

Grandma holds us so gently, as we lay our heads to rest.

Grandma manages to love us some more, even days when we are a pest.

Grandma will tell you and Mom will to, I’m good as I can be.

They can see the love and warmth in my heart as I know that they love me.

Grandma’s are great as all little ones know, but you’re the greatest by far.

Happy Mother’s Day to my Grandma I say

I love you just as you are.

Happy Mother’s Day to Grandma

I love you.

By
Linda J. Nance

Momma Says

Ask me all of your questions, I’ll tell you no lies.
Bring me all of your problems and I’ll help you get by.
Your Momma, she loves you, your daddy does too.
We’ll stand strong together what ever we do.

The Lord he did bless us when he gave us this child,
This sweet tiny baby so precious and mild
He answered our prayers with this baby so small
The joy we now have fill the hearts of us all.

So bring me all of your questions, I’ll tell you no lies.
Bring me all of your problems and I’ll help you get by.
Your Momma she loves you and your Daddy does too.
We’ll stand strong together what ever we do.

Now my baby is growing, and getting so tall,
And soon will be walking in no time at all.
A walking and talking and shout with glee,
That baby is special, especially to me.
I wrote this poem and made up a tune to sing it as a lullaby to my babies
By Linda J. Nance

Tuesday, April 3, 2012

Why Do I Write?

There are many reasons we write. There are times for a job or some special occasion that we have to write something. There may be a class assignment. There are times we want to share a special thought or message to a friend. There are also times we write because we have to. We feel a need that is more than a desire and the words scream to be freed.

There may be a story that takes shape or even the wisp of an idea of a story that can not be ignored…. And the story or book begins.

When I wrote the first novel it started with the idea of helping my daughter to find a way to write a short story. She and my husband became so excited exclaiming that I should write my own short story….so I did but it did not stop until it was over 550 pages. After much work and editing and many other things it finally became Journey Home.

When I wrote my second novel I had been thinking about how difficult it is at this time with so many out of work, high prices and all there is to contend with to survive. Gas prices go up and more and more we hear of people even loosing their homes. What happens to them? Where do they go? What do they do? What if it was me, or you, or….. What if?

I thought of the problems we have as we grow up. There are problems in relationships. There are difficulties when we try to determine what is best with our children. Changes in life can be so difficult no matter who we are or what the age.

That is when I knew I wanted to write a story that would have all of that and more. I wanted it to be so interesting you might want to know what happened then. I have been so delighted when so many people that have read the book want to know ….what next? What happened to them then? I will write more. Now that we know them we can share their lives and adventures. Life Goes On is the name of the book and it will go on…soon.

When I wrote the children’s book I have to say that it was near and dear to my heart and so many others through the years. It started as a poem. I believe that we should teach and learn all through our lives to the best of our abilities. Our boys came in one day from school and told me that poetry is awful. I had to laugh. They were at that age. I explained that poetry could tell a story.

“Sure, a love story…yuck.”

Most children love a spooky story so I decide to write a poem…that tells a story…of a haunted pumpkin field. We have had so much fun with it through the years with…our children, grandchildren, neighboring children, friends, relatives, nieces and nephews, cousins, children in local schools and even at one of the state parks.

Many adults find more meaning to the little book than the children. One even told me it was like a secret code that each understood in their own way and own age. I wanted it to me more than just a story in a book.

When you talk about the dark of night you can help a child overcome their fear of the dark by showing that even in darkness there is light as you point out the beauty of a full moon or stars above. You can help them to realize that in the darkness there are the same things as in the light. We have to look and try to see good things and overcome the fear to succeed.

As an adult or young adult reads the same thing they may come to share thoughts of how dark there are in some times of their life. How difficult in those dark times it is to find the light or know what way to turn. There are times they feel lost.

I wanted the whole book to be one that can do more than tell a story.

I made posters to help the characters come to life. They showed that and even wrote about it in one of the newspapers. When I decided to make it into a book there was so much more to it. I wanted each and every page to be one of my art works and that is what I did. I wanted to bring the characters to life in word and sight.

A Tale To Tell is a collection of my short stories that I hope are very entertaining but more too. In these little stories there are many things. As we grow older we may forget what peer pressure is like in school. In the story The Midnight Hour one boy learns that and that you might want to think about doing something you know is wrong especially in a haunted cemetery at …the midnight hour. There are other things that might come to mind as we contemplate things such as the pressure a person might feel trying to do a be more in life. I tried to do many things but above all I hope to have written stories you will enjoy and want to share with others.

That brings me to the book that is going to be free for three days. I would love to promote the book. I would love to be able to tell the world about this little book. I want more than that. I am not sure there are words for what is in my heart. I thought it impossible to find words to share the things that I did in the book….but I did my best.

I did not write it to entertain. I wrote it to share...something more than the words you read. I wrote this to share me with others and the hope that no matter what...we do not give up...not today. I wrote this and want to give it freely wishing you find meaning and hope.

I had never intended to write any nonfiction let alone about me. I felt the desire to write and share this not for me but to reach out….to?...who ever I can. I tried to find words that could actually share these moments, feelings, and emotions and as I did there were times that I cried. It was not that I could not remember. I remember all too well. It was real and as I tried to find words it was real again….and I cried.

Now I do not cry with tears or regret or sorrow. I am filled with emotion and know as difficult and painful as life can be there are so many wonderful things we could miss if we give up or forget to look for the beauty and life.

My Easter gift is to offer this part of my heart and life for free for three days and hope that it might reach beyond the pages with the thoughts and details described to help others. I hope that as each person reads the words they too feel they will not give up…not today… and that they have a wonderful journey in their own lives ahead. I hope they feel the wonder of a new day and hope for the future.

I Will Not Give Up…Not Today…Life Is A Journey

Ebook US http://amzn.to/yf1tdZ

Ebook UK http://amzn.to/xcWxDd

When I worked to make what I had written into books I continued with the idea of watching and working to make my dreams come true. I wanted even the covers to be something special from me. I did my own covers. I can share my love of art too. I used one of my photos and one pastel art work. The others are my paintings. I can share my paintings with my books and hope you enjoy.

Why do I write? I guess it is my voice and I want to sing out another story, book, something special…..I write because it is me. I write because I could not do otherwise.

http://amzn.to/GUxbro

Wednesday, March 14, 2012

THIS IS A SPECIAL DAY

It is not yet daylight but I know today will be special. Yesterday the sun was shining and the temperatures were mild. The breeze blowing in the window brought the scents of new life. It also brought the hope of a new day.

The trees are blooming and the flowers are beginning their array of colors to splash their beauty across the land. I do love the sights and smells. It makes me think back to long ago.

I grew up in the city but have always loved the beauty of nature. I love the bright lights of the city and the many things offered there too, but our big thrill as children was to go camping. We camped in a tent in many places seeing the beauty of mountains, streams, rivers, lakes, wooded land as far as the eye could see and more. I love to watch the little squirrels jump from branch to branch and hear the music of the birds. The early morning the dew would be heavy making the scents of the plants and flowers a perfume to inhale.

When I moved to a more rural area it gave me such a sense of peace as I could gazed at a beautiful sunset with trees silhouetted against the blazing colors creating their own patterns in the sky. I had three little chickens and fresh eggs daily. It was something I loved but there were things I had never thought of before….until the rooster began to crow before it was even the hint of daylight. I saw some humor as time went by and wrote a little poem…..

City Kid In The Country

I’m going to the country for peace and quiet, you see.

To breath fresh air and get a little rest, that sounds just right to me.

So many smells in that clean fresh air that my nose begins to tingle,

And the peace and quiet that I had found has set my nerves to jingle.

With the peaceful night and stars above, I lay me down to sleep,

But the crickets and bugs, birds, and frogs, made a noise that made me leap.

There’s a ‘Whipper Will’ and an old ‘Bobwhite’ I swear I’d shoot on sight,

And the crickets and frogs were turned on high, kept me up for half the night.

What was that walking in the brush, while the coyotes howled at the moon?

I’ve laid here, eyes wide open, it must be morning soon.

With trees all around the wind blew gently, but rustles all the leaves.

My hay fever I never knew I had, had my system beginning to wheeze.

I finally fell asleep and it feels so good, you know.

The sky turns pink but the sun’s not up, and that silly rooster began to crow.

Chicken and dumplings sounds good for supper, with antihistamines for me too.

This is the quiet of the country? What’s a city kid to do?

I still smile as I read the words from so long ago. There is often so much more to life and the simple things all around us than what we take the time to see or realize.

I still have allergies but will always love the sights, sounds, and beauty of nature. I love to sit out back under a canopy of trees hearing the laughter of the children and the voices of people sharing a good time and making special memories. We used to have trees so huge out back that you could sit there in a gentle rain and never get wet. The layer and layers of branches above not only sheltered you from the burning sun but offered a few extra moments to stay and enjoy the moment … dry and in comfort.

Trees that big would often drop branches and it would have been a bit of a job to keep up with the yard work….except….

That brings back another memory of a family reunion. I think back many years to when I was a young child. We would laugh and play and listen to the old old people sitting and talking. I would hear things like, “I remember back when…and… When I was a kid…..and….In my day we…..” and I would think how old they were and all I hear was about back in their day. What day is it anyway? What did they mean when they said “Their day”?

Now I see and hear a little more. I hear and see and realize that every day is my day…and your day. Every day is special and I do not want to take it for granted. As I was watching this reunion I overheard a group of young adults talking and laughing and sharing memories they had from all of the years. I saw the younger children running and playing. I smelled the wonderful odor of supper cooking on the grill and saw the smiling faces of those in my age range.

I heard things. The laughter of the playing children came and went as they were filled with the energy and excitement of their young age. One child stood for a moment listening to several people my own age as they smiled and reminisced. “I remember back in my day….When we were kids” and so on the conversation continued. I frowned for a moment watching the expression on the child’s face realizing the time had come that we were those same ‘old, old people’ and had to laugh. In some ways it might make a person a bit sad to realize that so much time has seemed to slip away.

When we were young it seemed like forever before we could get from one birthday to the next. I was 5 and then 5 and a ½. Now the years seem to fly by. I could tell you about the other day and then realize it was another year.

A group of young adults near me laughed and talked, remembering times long gone by watching over their own children as they played. I noticed them all laughing and shaking their heads in agreement looking straight at me. I paid full attention listening to find out what it was about me that could inspire such amusement.

This is part of what I heard…. “I remember. I sure do. I always did love the bonfires and cook outs and sitting around the fire with Marshmallows and hotdogs.”

“And I loved when Aunt Linda would tell stories.” Then they all began to laugh and share memories of times long gone by, and of the children they were from the past.

They continued to talk… “All of those years … I thought we were just having wonderful times and a lot of bonfires. After the ice storm last year we had so many tree limbs drop in the yard that the clean up was a mess. We tried our best to get the kids to help but you should have heard the moaning and groaning. “It was too hard; they were too tired, is that enough?” Those were only a few of the comments. We never did get those kids to help.”

At that point they all began to laugh again and look right at me. I walked over to join the group. My daughter smiled at me with a twinkle in her eye. “All of those years and all of those bonfires and it is only now, with our own kids and yards to clean, that I realize it was wonderful to have so much fun when we were kids but we were actually cleaning the yard.” When she said that, they all broke our laughing.

I laughed too and shook my head remembering. “Well honey, If I had told you all that we had so many tree limbs and branches down we had to get the yard cleaned I can imagine how well that would go over.”

“I know. I remember….” She smiled as they all began to laugh again.

I began to imitate and repeat from the past. “Now, if I just had a few little branches piled up right over there… we could have a lot of fun. I have some hotdogs inside and a bonfire roasting hotdogs… well …if I had a stick or two.” I joined in the laughter around the group as more people joined the fun.

“You kids nearly ran over each other gathering all the branches. It was amazing how quickly the whole yard was cleaned and not a twig in sight. Now picture in your mind if I had told you to clean the yard and pick up all of those branches…my way was so much more fun.”

One of them mentioned and looked so amazed that she had never realized they were doing chores until that moment. We did have some good times. We will have more good times. Today is tomorrow’s memory. It is yesterday’s future. It is the moment not to be missed. I have often said to beware what you wish for and you may find what you look for. I am wishing each and every one of you a wonderful day filled with special moments and times to share making memories that will warm your heart someday far ahead. I hope you will have the ability to look for the beauty and happiness and find it even as you see the things that make you sad or show the other side of life. There will always be those that are petty, small, unhappy and wanting to spread and share that miserable feeling, or even malicious and hurtful to others. We can not ignore those things and have to stand strong in our lives building on the good and right things we believe in. We also can not focus on them and let them drag us down to their level. It is daylight and a beautiful day too. I will look to this beautiful day…this special day …and wish you all well.

Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Irresistibly Sweet Blog Award: ME?

When I received notice that a friend and fellow blogger had nominated me for the Irresistibly Sweet Blog Award I was thrilled to be thought of and then wondered what I had written that was irresistibly sweet. In some ways sharing special things dear to us is something very sweet and as I have found the blog All Dressed Up by Joan Lane… one that is so interesting you never want to miss as she shares so many things in her unique and talented way. I feel honored and begin to fulfill my part by sharing 7 things about myself. I hope you enjoy not only the things that I share but those shared by Joan at http://jplanewrites.blogspot.com/p/irresistibly-sweet-blog-award.html?spref=fb

I am so proud and honored to have been nominated

I am supposed to write some little known things about myself….I only have two problems with that.

I just completed a book called “I Will Not Give Up…Not Today…Life Is A Journey” That may not sound like a problem or little known fact since I have been trying to get the word out and proud to be able to share it with any and everyone. The problem with that is that I tried my best to share things from my life in accurate and intensely real detail. I did not tell every thing about my whole life but did discuss some things that were difficult to even put into words. I wrote a book to tell all about me so… what could I think of to tell now?

I do not want to be boring. I think there are many things about me and my life that are so boring I could never find words to tell. I have been thinking back…way back…back into time when??? We will have to see what all I can come up with.

I grew up in the 60’s and 70’s. I would love to tell you how I jumped in and experienced all of the changing and wild times that those years were famous for…but….that would be a lie.

When I was young I experienced many health issues and some were intense. For a time I had to be admitted to Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital in St. Louis, Mo., and was there for some time. I was not physically disabled, so often would get bored as children do and frustrated with all of the tests and needles and looked for other entertainment. They had two programs that I especially liked. Recreational and Occupational Therapy were the high points of my days. Even as a young child I had always loved to do art related things. I also wrote.

With my enthusiasm I could recruit other children in the group to participate and see what all we could make. When you take the time to look around in life, you can see so much. I had my own problems but there were those who had such illness, injury, and so many things including cancer that my heart went out to them one and all. They faced so much, yet showed so much courage. You wanted to reach out and make it better but all you could do is try to make them smile for the moment….especially if you too were only a child.

At that time I thought I was so grown up but now 11 or 12 seems like a baby. As I sit here now and think back, it renews my feelings for those children all around the world that suffer…suffer from so many things. At that time I was determined to become a volunteer in that program. I was told that I was too young. They have rules for reasons. Some of the things you see have great emotional consequences. You have to be able to have such control of your reactions when you see things distressing, so you do not upset the patient.

One young boy had been burning trash. He did not know that there was an aerosol can in the burn barrel. When he brought out another bag it exploded embedding burning trash in his face. I was 12 but still remember. He was so distraught he would try to hide under his bed when anyone entered his room. You could not show in voice or any other way a reaction to what you saw. He was blind and if he did not come out and find a way to learn, do and live……

I do not know how, other than is seems children often will listen to another child before an adult… but as I sat on the floor beside his bed, little by little he came out. Visit after visit he began to learn to use his hands and trust others.

They allowed me to work as a volunteer. I had my little candy striper uniform and was filled with enthusiasm to make a difference…Even if it was for one child… I wanted to bring a smile, a moment of relief from all they went through or just let them know someone cared. I worked in the recreational/ occupational therapy area. I loved it and could take almost anything you might throw away and make something else out of it. The plastic caps from baby bottles they throw out became Christmas ornaments and a dozen other things with other everyday things.

I will start the second thing even though it continues from above. I loved to write poetry. I did not keep a journal but many of the poems I wrote were a reflection of things in my life or thoughts, feelings or things that inspired me. It was almost my own little code or record of this and that in life.

One of the poems I wrote when I was about 12 or 13 I will share.

Blue Eyes

A bright little girl with eyes of blue,

Cheerful and happy with a spirit so true,

Was a joy to visit and a sight to see,

A warm friendly feeling to around her be.

The hospital bed was so cold and clean.

She radiated warmth to the dreary scene.

Not knowing her illness or the burden she bore,

Never guessing the anguish or pain yet in store.

My hospital work was a pleasure to me

New at the job, there was much yet to see.

Caring for many, there was so much they did need,

Just to lighten their spirits could be a difficult deed.

But the little girl with the bright blue eyes,

Was bright and happy and never did cry.

Surely this child must not be too ill,

Such a light hearted smile and indomitable will.

The days passed by and the weeks did too.

Her cheeks grew thin, but her eyes still blue.

She still smiled and laughed, and was ever so gay,

I asked what she’d be when she grew up some day?

The smile of a child, but one filled with peace,

Came to a face that time would not crease.

She seemed oh, so happy as she told me that day,

It wouldn’t be long before Jesus took her away.

I could hardly believe what had just been said.

She lay there so small in that big hospital bed.

A look of concern came across her small face,

To me she was special, a true spirit of grace.

But that she was to many, ask any who knew,

The golden curled girl with eyes of bright blue.

Two nurses came in then to visit the child

My anguish must have shown, for my heart beat was wild.

It just wasn’t fair that this child must die.

I stepped out and asked the nurse, “please tell me why?”

“The why I can’t answer. The what I am sure.

Advanced forms of cancer, as of yet there’s no cure.”

Her time was most over. Her gold curls grew thin.

Her treatments were strong, but the cancer would win.

As her body did dwindle, her spirit stayed high.

I could not understand, so I asked the child why?

Your sickness grows worse, and so much you endure,

And I’m sure that you know they don’t have a cure.

Her smile was so warm, though her skin felt quite cold,

Her answer was cheerful and honest and bold.

“How could I be sad when I know what is to come?

I don’t have to wait long, not years as do some.

I’m leaving a life that’s nice enough here,

To go live with God and have nothing to fear.

It’s lucky I am to know Jesus, you see.

I’m ready for him when he’s ready for me.”

It was with such joy she faced what was ahead,

I knew when my time comes I have nothing to dread.

The sweet little girl we had all grown to love,

Was at home now with Jesus, up in heaven above.

They say that she died with a smile as she passed,

From the pain of this life to a new life at last.

What she left to us, was both precious and dear,

Knowing that God also lives with us here.

The little girl is gone from us left here below,

To a life filled with glory, because her Savior she did know.

Pretty Little Blue Eyes I’ll never forget.

The lesson you’ve taught still lives with me yet.

God loves you Child.

By,

Linda J. Nance

As I share this poem it brings back the sights and memories from that time. I did not exaggerate the strength and convictions of this child. She was so selfless. She had only one request. The one thing she said she wanted was a wig so that when she did leave, her momma would not cry. She thought about others even to the funeral she knew was soon to come.

I had to leave the room. I knew it was not allowed to show emotion but there was not way to hold the tears back. I was not alone. Everyone in the room glanced from one to the other with tears glistening in their eyes. A collection was swiftly made and a wig that looked like her hair before her treatments was acquired days before it would be needed.

We may hope to live our lives in a way that does something for good or touches others. She lived such a short time but her spirit and heart lives on in all who knew her and I hope to pass it on….

That brings to mind the Make A Wish Foundation. If I had plenty of money what a wonderful thing it would be to be able to make wishes come true for children like these? As it is, I think every dollar or penny counts. There is no gesture too small if it is from the heart.

I have wandered from the point that I wrote poetry. When I wrote I wanted it to have meaning and heart or in some way be sharing part of me. I think one day I will write a poetry book and share the thoughts or times that went with each one.

A different outlook. I went on to do volunteer work in a city hospital. That may not sound unusual but I was allowed to work in the ER. At that time, it was not done … especially at such a young age. I was 14 and 15. I understand now why there are such regulations. You see too much. I was so sure that I could handle it. I thought I was all grown up. There was an exception made and there I was. The staff was fantastic. I learned so much. They did keep an eye on me and of course I was never allowed to do any direct care with patients. I set up and cleaned in the rooms, but also visited and helped to keep relatives calm of those who were being treated. I stayed with patients who could benefit for one reason or another to have someone there. I could get a frightened child to smile and that may not seem like much but when they are afraid it means a lot to be able to treat them and ease their fears. I did my best…but...

I saw many things. I saw things that would make you laugh. I saw things you could not believe were true. I saw things that would make me take a break to go to the bathroom and…cry. A few things I will not go into but …. I understand now why they are careful about whom they allowed to work in those situations and why they were so diligent in making sure I was alright or not overwhelmed.

I loved to learn. I was learning a lot. When you stand beside a mother or father and hold their hand knowing that there is nothing more that can be done…you hold their hand and they are dieing… or visit after visit you grow to love a little girl like the one in the poem to stand silently by her bedside in the last days knowing that is ‘good bye’… or a boy who has lost his sight and face learning to face the world…

When you see abuse, violence, the darker side of human actions and the results in a city ER….

It was difficult as a child to relate to other children of my age. I would hear things like “I am just going to die. Did you see ‘Johnny or Steve or who ever’ talking to her. I want to die or kill them both” or “Oh, my God…I have a zit right on my nose. I can’t stand it. This is so unfair.” So many things that were such big issues to those around me seemed so sadly inconsequential. I said nothing. That is just it. I said nothing. I could not join in as I listened and felt so strongly that they did not understand what pain there really was by so many in life.

School Days……Our high school was so over crowed we had to attend in shifts. The school was filled with the first shift and then they went home and the next shift was sent in. So many in my class… I never got to know. I could blend in the background. I had enough credits I had wished that I would have gone to summer school and got one more. I would have graduated at 16. My senior year I was allowed to go to the local college and take classes to be certified as a Nursing Assistant. That is a nurse’s aide. I had to wait to go to work until I was 16 to have a driver’s license.

My senior year I had one class and the teacher was so sweet. She understood that I was tired. I got a job at the same hospital where I had done the ER work. The class was not even close to the level of study or training I had already completed at the college, so if I held an A/B average, did not snore or fall out of my seat she let me sleep when that occasionally happened. I was working the night shift in the hospital in the area where most of the terminal patients were and occasionally pulled to the comprehensive medical unit. (many called it the psych ward)

I was active in the church, working in the hospitals and missed the usual experiences that create so many memories we can look back on and fondly say…I remember back then, when I was young….. We did this and that……

In my own way I felt a desire to do more. I was never pushed into any of the things I was involved in. Many tried to discourage me and asked that I wait until I was older but I was never one to wait. When I had seen children die…we never know what tomorrow will bring. I had seen that first hand at a young age as a patient and seen it repeated in many ways in life. I wanted to live life and make a difference.

I could talk to doctors and nurses and even understand the things discussed with medical issues. I could talk to patients and their families or at church but did not feel close to very many of my peers. I often felt apart from others in school.

Take a step back….. When I worked every day with terminal patients I could not separate feelings from the services and care provided. There were so many that as they aged became so alone in life. Others were busy and might come as time permits, but their lives had demands and the patients often were so alone…they knew they would die and they lay in the bed feeling alone. I could not smile and forget the feeling from them. I often visited. I would even come in early and spend time with this one or that one that really needed just a moment with a friendly face that was not just there doing a job. They needed to know someone cared. I did care. Then when they died… I was low in seniority so I got the jobs others did not want. I got to bag and tag my friend. Too many times I did what I had to do with tears running down my face. I prepared them to go to what ever funeral home would arrive to get them, or for the family to come for their last visit.

There were other things too that broke my heart or deeply distressed me. It was too much. I gave notice and got a job at an insurance company. My knowledge of terms and procedures made it perfect for me to be able to screen claims and even teach others. I was finally 18 and thought I was so grown up.

Years pass by…..

I will skip ahead as I wander through memories. There came a time in life I had been married and divorced. I had two children and was trying to survive in life and find my way. I have always tried, but at times felt so lost. I had lived to do what was needed. I have tried to explain that in many ways but often felt as if there was no real me…only what was needed. Who and what was I?

I understand the definition of depression and am sure there are many times I qualify but that is not what I am or will allow my self to be. Depression is a dangerous thing to body, mind and soul. What I wanted was to live life.

By that time all I concentrated on was surviving. I wanted to provide, protect, and build a life for my children and myself. I had given up on finding that so called soul mate or someone special in life.

That is when I met Albert. He was and is so different from me. He would be more what I would call a free spirit. He can be one of the best hearted people you could ever meet. We all have more than one side to our true selves but this man made me feel special. The children loved him and….he made me smile. There are times he still makes me smile.

He had long hair, did construction and opened a new world for me. We laughed and smiled and I felt alive. I had never got to go dancing. I did not know how to dance. I did not know how to just go have fun.

We got tickets for a concert in Memphis, Tn. I had never been to a concert either. You would think someone in their 30’s would have done all of those things, especially in their youth but to me it was all new and…exciting. I loved the concert. When we went outside my back was bothering me. I have and did have trouble with that so we sat by the retaining wall next to the street. A horse drawn carriage stopped and Albert talked to the woman driving it. The next thing you know we were off on a carriage ride. You normally went a certain area around the Pyramid but she took us all the way through town and traffic to

Beal Street

. Part way through, she stopped allowing the horse to rest and turned asking to take our picture. She gave me a copy of it saying she thought we had magic. She told how she sees so many people and everyone is having a good time but there was just something special about and between the two of us…Magic.

It was magic. It was a time to remember. We danced, we smiled, we laughed and we made memories. We still have magic. His son, my son and daughter and the four grandchildren are magic. They warm your heart and make you spirit soar at the sight of them.

A New Day

Through the years I have collected many things that I have written. I hoped one day to see some of it published, but as I have shared in other blogs… time seemed to be of the essence to make that dream real.

Now as I grow older I do not feel that things are coming to an end in my life…I feel as if I am on an adventure of a journey. I have only just begun. I have so many things and ideas I want to bring to life. There are stories and more yet to become books. There are places to go and people to meet. There are adventures I never thought of that I am sure waiting for their day to come… and I will go and do and be there. My newest E-Book tells that and so much more. I Will Not Give Up… Not Today… Life Is A Journey and that it is. That is only the first book of it’s kind too. I would tell you what there is to come but who knows what all will be….it is an adventure.

My Books

This part is an invitation as well as a fact about me. I invite you all to share my journey. I have written not one type of book but each book a special creation.

‘Life Goes On’ Shares the drama of a family in crisis. They do not always make the right choices in life but life tends to be that way. Hopefully we learn as we live and….life does go on. It is not a how to live your life but sharing the story of a family with the tests and trials they endure. So many are suffering such hard times it helps to know we are not alone but we can survive. We can not only survive but find the strength to go on in life. I chose that to be the first novel published.

‘Journey Home’ is a novel that I hope keeps you guessing to the very end. I have heard from so many that they never saw it coming and loved it. This is a story I think will be hard to forget. When it gets dark outside….do you have your doors locked and curtains closed…if not….what might lurk outside looking in….and why? If she does not find answers will she even survive?

‘The Pumpkin Field’ is a children’s book that was and is one close to my heart. I have told about it too so many times that would not be new to share. What I will say is that this little tale has delighted so many children through so many years and still has it’s own magic. I say magic because it seems to stimulate conversations with young and old. I wanted to write a tale that lived in the heart of the reader. What can you see no matter your age in the words and dual meanings? It has helped some young to see that even in the dark of night there is beauty and light in the heavens above. Life can seem that way at times. No matter how dark it is we have to look and find the light and our own star to guide us.

My fourth book is ‘I Will Not Give Up…Not Today…Life Is A Journey’. I have written an autobiographical account sharing not only parts of my life but thoughts, feelings, hopes, fears, and more. In sharing things that I have written and an insight into my dreams and goals for the future, I offer a glimpse inside heart and soul. I hope to have been able to share many things including the feeling that we can not give up. That is exactly what I am doing…not giving up. I am reaching out beyond the pages and hope to make a difference.

The book has religious aspects because the beliefs I have and hold are dear to me and very much a part of who and what I am. There have been moments and events in my life that reinforce beliefs I have always had. I have tried to find words to convey so many things.

Some instances shared were very traumatic times. If I share the truth of the past, it might help others to see and feel that no matter how difficult things may be, we can go on in life and find hope for our future. I hope it touches the hearts of anyone who has or is having problems that feel insurmountable and offers them hope. I hope it reaches the heart of those who have no idea what such devastating illness or injury might be and feel like, allowing them a deeper compassion or understanding of others along the way in their lives.

I did not dwell on the negative attitudes in life, but just as I said in the book, we have to be wary of what we look for…they are there too… from the youngest children at play on the playground teasing a playmate to the workplace or everyday life and at times in our own relationships. It is easy to see prejudge by appearances or differences or other things. We are naturally attracted to beauty and the enthusiasm. Can we look past appearances to see what lies deeper in the heart of another?

I have been able to turn all but the children’s book into E-Books and will figure that out soon too. I am learning so many new things. I even did a youtube thing of me reading the story to children.

I do my own art work. I did paintings and wrote blogs and about it on the fan page as they progressed. I have shared many things. Even that I still play with playdoh. I make flowers. I love to make playdoh flowers even though I can do art in other mediums because it keeps the inner child alive and well and exercises my hands. I have even written about that too. I will try to add pictures here and links to many things.

I will continue to work with the writer’s group I started locally and on line for people to help each other. It is amazing to be able to share with one another and see each one as their own special projects come to life. I have learned so much and thank all who take the time helping me and we helping each other.

I will also add the thought and hope that you have bright days ahead and never give up. I wish you each happiness, hope and love in your lives. May your path in life lead you to a place a peace and joy.

For those I have nominated, the rules, as I understand them are:

1. Thank and link to the person who nominated you.

2. Share 7 random facts about yourself.

3. Pass the Award on to some of your own deserving blog friends.

4. Contact those friends and let them know.

I thank Joan once again and am happy to pass this on to others who do so much with the things that they write each in their own way. Helping with words and sharing with others I invited you to stop and enjoy the different things they present.

Deb Hockenberry Deb’s Book Nook http://debsbookreviews.blogspot.com/2012/02/golden-pathway.html

http://thebumpyroadtopublishing.blogspot.com/2012/02/golden-pathway.html

Fran Lewis http://allgenrereviews.blogspot.com/

Dellani Oaks http://writersanctuary.blogspot.com/

DJ Weaver http://webbweaver-zelda555.blogspot.com/

Pat Bertram http://ptbertram.wordpress.com/2012/02/02/my-baby-bonsai-forest/

Kenneth Heard Love, Life, and APBA Baseball http://lovelifeapba.blogspot.com/

Glenda bixler http://gabixlerreviews-bookreadersheaven.blogspot.com/2012/02/take-drink-and-this-novel-to-your-man.html

Stacy Juba http://stacyjuba.com/blog/2012/02/05/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-amazon-kindle-fire/

Sarah Butland http://sarahbutland.blogspot.com/

Kelly Moran http://kellymoranauthor.blogspot.com/

Sandra Branum http://sandrabranum.wordpress.com/