Poetry

Apple Tree

Standing underneath the branches As I watched my brother climb, He would shake the tree with vigor; It was apple-picking time. We'd stuff apples in our shirt tails, Carrying all that we could bear, Knowing Mom would make some dumplings If we just could get them there. Apple fritters, apple turnovers, Apple pies -- mom… Continue reading Apple Tree

Poetry

Bee Stings

A bumble bee had got me good; I smarted from the sting. I told my Daddy, 'cause I knew He could fix anything. He said that he knew just the cure, While I stared at him wide-eyed. He chewed tobacco, slapped on the sting As I shuddered, horrified. He said it would draw the poison… Continue reading Bee Stings

Poetry

Borryin’

My Daddy was a mountain man Who'd look you in the eye; His handshake would seal a promise And he'd keep it, do or die. Once a neighbor bummed some money With a promise to repay, Telling Dad he'd be back Friday, But he never showed that day. As the weeks went by, Dad watched… Continue reading Borryin’

Poetry

Boogerman

For all my life, my aunt would stay For a week or two each year. She loved to come; we loved it, too; But she had one tiny fear: She thought the Boogerman would come And steal us while we slept; But we were safe when she was there - Constant vigilance, she kept. We… Continue reading Boogerman

Poetry

Catch the Baby

"Catch the baby!" my brother would yell As he tossed me to the other. I thought the strongest men on earth Were my three strapping brothers. I'd sail through the air without any fear, No thought of falling at all. They'd stand in a triangle tossing me Not once ever letting me fall. I trusted… Continue reading Catch the Baby

Poetry

Courtin’ Days

The prettiest thing he ever saw Was a girl with hair of gold. When she saw him, she knew he was The one to "have and hold.' "Can I come callin'?" he asked her, And she quickly nodded yes. It led them to a sweet courtship Neither ever would regret. The porch swing was their… Continue reading Courtin’ Days