Dear blog friends,

We had unexpected visitors this past week. Hubby's daughter and son-in-law were required to evacuate their home in Southern California due to the fire threat. Fortunately, their house was not damaged -- and we had a precious time visiting with each other. My heart goes out to all who were not as fortunate.

In our area of Northern Arizona, fire is a very real threat, but there are regular "controlled" fires to mitigate that possibility. We often see smoke rising in the distance over the grazing fields and farmland, but those fires are for our protection. 

I've been quiet for a bit, because my computer had a meltdown and had to go to computer hospital. Fingers crossed, it seems to be working now. BUT...I will be flying back East next week to be with family and celebrate the life of my beautiful daughter-in-law. I will try to visit blogs over these next couple of days. ❤️
​
~ ~ ~ ~ 
This week's #TankaTuesday is led by Melissa Lemay. She invites us to write a Haiku. I've decided to focus on gardeners and farmers. With the change in seasons, folks are planting seeds for a summer harvest. I wonder if you are working in your garden as well. 😊


Have a wonderful week!

I hope the rest of your week is blessed with much laughter. And whatever you might be doing for country and/or for family, thank you. Your legacy will not be forgotten.😊

Hello blog friends,

I've a story and a poem to share -- prompted by Melissa Lemay. She hosts Tanka Tuesday this week and invites poets to use one the paintings of Romare Bearden as inspiration. I had never heard of this artist prior to Melissa's post, but when I looked at his work, I was drawn to the one featured below. My story ~ 

Years ago, while working in Connecticut, I attended a meeting in New Orleans. It was the first time I had traveled to that area and was quickly entranced by the music.

From the windows of our meeting rooms, I could hear the street musicians. Then at night, the area transformed into a lively medley of competing singers and their drums or guitars. People danced and sang in the streets, and, of course, had a drink or two. I had never experienced anything quite like this before. 

By nature, I'm a quiet person. I'd rather escape into a museum than a street party. But, if truth be known, I enjoyed being around the frolicking people and the groups of musicians. Although I was overwhelmed by it all, I soon forgot my timidness and had fun dancing. Music has a wonderful way of freeing the spirit. 

My poem:

​I hope you have a wonderful weekend, dear friends. Let's find a way to celebrate... 🌞