Man Without a Name
By Sandra Stoner Mitchell

"It was the strangest thing," said Toby.
"I was standing right there by his side,
not one little word did he mutter—
he just turned around, sat down—and died!"
The policeman asked him more questions:
"Can you tell me how long he was there?
Did he arrive first, or come later?
Is there anything else you can share?"

"We arrived here around the same time.
I remember he held an old hat."
Toby stopped and turned for a moment.
"Look! It's still over there where he sat."
The hat was picked up and examined;
the detective was looking for clues.
"There's a name here--recently written--
it's the same name that's inside the shoes."

Then Toby said, "That could be handy.
With his name, you've got somewhere to go."
The detective shook his head sadly.
"They are both too small for our John Doe."
"Well, there must be someone who knows him."
Toby frowned, thinking how it was sad.
"Perhaps he has people home waiting,
he just might be a husband and dad."

When Toby went home, he was tired,
he could not get his mind off the man.
John Doe was no name to leave life with,
and his death - was it part of God's plan?
After Toby had climbed up the stairs,
he was soon fast asleep on his bed.
In dreams, John Doe came and was speaking;
he was stunned to hear what the man said.

"Please don't waste your time thinking of me;
life's too short as it is to do that.
There was nothing wrong with my passing--
I was destined to die where I sat.
"We each have our time to do something
for people to remember us by.
It is what you do that will matter;
there is no room for questioning why."

Toby woke with the strangest feeling:
there was something he wanted to do.
The John Doe had clearly left something;
he'd unwittingly left them a clue.
He went first to ask the detective,
"Did you find the man who owned the hat?"
The detective said, "Yes, we found him.
That's him there, as a matter of fact."

Toby turned and saw an old drifter,
with a smart hat and shiny black shoes.
So he went and sat down beside him,
and the man said he'd heard the sad news.
The drifter was like many others,
who had come back from fighting the war.
Had nothing and nobody waiting;
he had lost the life he'd had before.

Discharged from the army a hero,
he'd been wounded, and lost his right arm.
He was forced to live like a drifter,
but he'd never do anyone harm.
“One day, this man came and sat with me
he saw that my shoes were too tight,
so he took off his own and his hat,
and he told me it just wasn't right." 

He then swapped his things for the drifter's,
though the shoes were too tight for him, too.
The drifter looked up with a question,
"Wasn't that a real strange thing to do?"
Toby thought of the dream he'd had then,
and he smiled at the drifter and said,
"I am sure you'll remember the man,
but not as a John Doe who is dead."

We each have our time to do something,
for people to remember us by.
It is what you do that will matter;
there is no room for questioning why.

~~oOo~~

Author Notes

Thank you so much for reading my poem. Picture from Google Images.

~~oOo~~

A Tiny Tear
By Sandra Stoner Mitchell

This blush pink rose is all that's left to see,
a tiny bud once glazed with morning's dew;
a small reminder of what used to be,
and of the love I'll always hold for you.

The bud lies gently in my trembling hand;
it once was woven in my wedding spray.
I close my eyes...I cannot understand;
how could a life, so good, end in this way?

I can remember everything from when
you came home early and we went outside;
I didn't want to hear those words...and then
you held me in your arms as we both cried.

The sun sets low and turns the ocean pink,
the colour of this rose I send to you.
I look towards the orb to watch it sink,
then throw the rose into its golden hue.

A tiny tear falls down onto my lips;
I feel the trace of your sweet fingertips.

~~oOo~~

Author Notes

Thank you, Melissa, MelB, for this amazing piece of artwork, it's so beautiful! This is the latest picture to inspire the group, 'Picture This'. I look forward to reading everyone else's! Jax Franklin, I am Cat, Padumachitta, Sweetwoodjax, TheMomakaDarlene, Pantygynt, GypsyBlueRose, Linda Engel, Barkingdog, FeralFromMalanda, Lightink, Justafan, Robyn Corum, Leineco, Joy Graham, Amada, Evilynne, Royowen, MelB, Chrissy710, Pattipac, BeasPeas, Dean Kuch, Patcelaw, Margaret Snowdon, Trimple, Flylikeaneagle, jannypan, Gert Sherwood, Ciliverde, Krys 123, Annette Gulliver, Eric1, DavisR, Harold Clapsaddle, KittyKatnoel, Lance Hill, Mark Valentine, Gabby Lew, GinnyGray, Bob Cullen, Dejohnsrld(Debbie), OnyxSapphire78, MissCookie, Neonewman, Nancy E Davis, Douglas Paul, Frogbook, Sanky.

Chapter 3
The Music Man

By Sandra Stoner-Mitchell

~~oOo~~

The Music Man
By Sandra Stoner Mitchell

Although he's been a friend for years, we've never known his name;
the month he comes to visit us has always been the same.
And with his old umbrella opened up and never down,
we relish his arrival; he brings music to our town.

We all call him our 'Music Man'--
he brings us joy each year;
the town will buzz with merriment,
the moment he is here.

He makes amazing music as he wanders through the day,
creating joy in everyone he meets along the way.
By showing children that to play an instrument is fun,
he teaches them that music is a gift for everyone.

We all call him our 'Music Man'--
he brightens up our town;
he'll put a smile upon our face,
when we are feeling down.

But this year was so different when no music came our way.
We told each other, "he's just late", and waited every day.
Then, when his time had long passed by, so we all understood,
the day we'd hoped would never come...our friend had gone for good.

We still call him our 'Music Man'--
he sends his melody
by raining notes down on us with
angelic harmony.

~~oOo~~

Author Notes

This is my take on the lovely picture chosen by Leineco. It was the hardest one yet, but a brilliant challenge, so thank you, my friend, I look forward to reading yours! These are the other members of the 'Picture This' club. I will be reading them all as they come. For more information you can get in touch with Jax Franklin who very kindly started the club. Jax Franklin, I am Cat, Padumachitta, Sweetwoodjax, TheMomakaDarlene, Pantygynt, GypsyBlueRose, Linda Engel, Barkingdog, FeralFromMalanda, Lightink, Justafan, Robyn Corum, Leineco, Joy Graham, Amada, Evilynne, Royowen, MelB, Chrissy710, Pattipac, BeasPeas, Dean Kuch, Patcelaw, Margaret Snowdon, Trimple, Flylikeaneagle, jannypan, Gert Sherwood, Ciliverde, Krys 123, Annette Gulliver, Eric1, DavisR, Harold Clapsaddle, KittyKatnoel, Lance Hill, Mark Valentine, Gabby Lew, GinnyGray, Bob Cullen, Dejohnsrld(Debbie), OnyxSapphire78, MissCookie, Neonewman, Nancy E Davis, Douglas Paul. Frogbook, Sanky, PoemOfDD, Notesandmore, Debra White,

Chapter 4
What Is This Place?

By Sandra Stoner-Mitchell

"What Is This Place?"
By Sandra Stoner Mitchell

She stood there in the center of the room and looked around,
her eyes the size of saucers focused on the things they'd found.
"What are all these?" she asked her granddad, reaching out in awe
to touch the books upon the shelves. "What was this building for?"

Her granddad smiled, although his eyes were sad as he recalled
these paper books, that long ago, had kept him so enthralled.
How dearly he had loved their smell...the sight of pages bound
in leather and in paperback but now so rarely found.

He tried explaining to the child, in words she'd understand,
the joy of holding books and turning pages in your hand.
"These buildings were called libraries," he whispered reverently.
"And all the shelves were packed with books for us to read for free.

"As children we would come from school to find something to read;
a good adventure story--and each one would sow its seed.
One day I'd be a cowboy, and the next I'd drive a tank,
or I would be the hero saving folk from ships that sank!"

The little girl then grinned and said, "Oh, Granddad, you are fun.
These books must be so heavy, just a few would weigh a ton!
While I can hold a thousand books here in my tiny hand,
upon my Tablet, and no trees were taken from the land."

Her granddad sighed. "Perhaps you're right, but I like paper best!"
he said, almost defiantly, while puffing out his chest.

~~ooOoo~~

Author Notes

This is my take on the 'Picture This' picture, which was chosen by Jax Franklin. It will be fun to read everyone else's. In my poem, I am on the Grandfather's side. :) If you want to join the group, please get in touch with Jax Franklin. Jax Franklin, I am Cat, Padumachitta, Sweetwoodjax, TheMomakaDarlene, Pantygynt, GypsyBlueRose, Linda Engel, Barkingdog, FeralFromMalanda, Lightink, Justafan, Robyn Corum, Leineco, Amada, Evilynne, Royowen, MelB, Chrissy710, Pattipac, BeasPeas, Dean Kuch, Patcelaw, Margaret Snowdon, Trimple, Flylikeaneagle, jannypan, Gert Sherwood, Ciliverde, Krys 123, Annette Gulliver, Eric1, DavisR, Harold Clapsaddle, KittyKatnoel, Lance Hill, Mark Valentine, Gabby Lew, GinnyGray, Bob Cullen, Dejohnsrld(Debbie), OnyxSapphire78, MissCookie, Neonewman, Nancy E Davis, Douglas Paul, Sherylsart, joeruptak, A.W.Brooks, Frogbook, Sankey, PoemofDD, Notesandmore, Debra White, Danpald, Chery19359

Chapter 5
The Symphony

By Sandra Stoner-Mitchell

The Symphony
By Sandra Stoner Mitchell

She strolled along with stick in hand,
and played her music for the band.
Inside her head, the maestros played
a perfect rhythmic serenade.

The violins played soft and slow,
and trumpeters blew nice and low.
Then grand pianos hit the beat
that matched her stick, it was so neat.

The rat tat tat she played so well,
as everybody there could tell.
The birds joined in the music feast;
it was first-class to say the least.

But when the cats thought they'd join in
it ended up a dreadful din!

~~oOo~~

Author Notes

This is another Picture This challenge, and I did find it a hard one. But what a good challenge. These are the rest of the groups names, if you would like to read them, they are worth it! Jax Franklin Padumachitta, Sweetwoodjax, TheMomakaDarlene, Pantygynt, GypsyBlueRose, Linda Engel, FeralFromMalanda, Lightink, Justafan, Robyn Corum, Leineco, Joy Graham, Amada, Evilynne, Royowen, MelB, Chrissy710, Pattipac, BeasPeas, Patcelaw, Margaret Snowdon, Trimple, Flylikeaneagle, jannypan, Gert Sherwood, Ciliverde, Krys 123, Eric1, DavisR, Harold Clapsaddle, KittyKatnoel, Lance Hill, Mark Valentine, Gabby Lew, GinnyGray, Bob Cullen, Dejohnsrld(Debbie), OnyxSapphire78, MissCookie, Neonewman, Douglas Paul. Frogbook, PoemOfDD, Notesandmore, Debra White, DanPald, Cheryl19359, Liberty Justice.

Chapter 6
He Opened Up His Eyes

By Sandra Stoner-Mitchell

~~oOo~~

He Opened Up His Eyes
By Sandra Stoner Mitchell

 
He closed his eyes, then breathed in deeply as he sighed;
the scent of salty seas invading senses--
long ago denied.
 
What message had the Spirits of his people to impart?
His mind wandered…waiting…
 
Was that sound the sea-gulls screeching loudly in the sky?
Not from any memory of his did he recall…but then--
could it be the sound of eagles so far distant as to fall
upon his hearing, gently reminiscing days that fly,
in ever spinning eons passing by.
 
With eyes still closed; did he hear wings? Or fins of fish
that leap out of the waters, gasping wide,
relinquishing their freedom to the ever spawning tide.
 
He listened to the sounds of life abounding all around…
he frowned, his heart sore—stricken to the core
knowing this reality
was, in its entirety, a time so long before…
the white man.
 
Then suddenly ‘twas clear, the reason he was here
brought before the spirits on his own.
Up on the mountain high, with the eagles in the sky
brought together some normality
of family and home.
 
His eyes, eager now to open
as the breeze, bringing far-off laughter that in turn
would lift his lips…
he traced with fingertips—then suddenly he realized
that everything he had despised he'd changed into what had become...

He’d turned what was, into what is.
He opened up his eyes.

~~oOo~~

Author Notes

A bit different for me. The picture brought about so many random thoughts, I thought I would just put them all down. :) My thanks go to Roy Owen for choosing this stunning picture. If you would like to join in the Picture This group, you can get in touch with Jax Franklin for all the details.

Chapter 7
The Gate

By Sandra Stoner-Mitchell

~~oOo~~

The Gate
By Sandra Stoner Mitchell

The gate was old and broken leading no where, anymore,
the path, now gone, once led up to a warm and welcome door.
What was an English country garden, soon became a field,
and though the house had gone, the gate, alone, refused to yield.

Once, children played there happily, from dawn till early dusk,
in gardens full of shrubs and plants exuding fragrant musk.
Where ladies played croquet on lawns, and tennis on hard ground;
while most had gone and more would go--the gate was still around.

The ocean had been coming closer slowly now for years,
when gentry sought to save their homes, it ended all in tears.
And, gradually, the seas continued taking back the land
as battered cliffs gave up the fight against the ocean's hand.

But through it all the gate still stood, beat-up beyond repair;
a sentinel for what had been, and was no longer there.

~~oOo~~

Author Notes

This is my take on the picture for the, 'Picture This', challenge, chosen by Chrissy 710. Thanks, Christine!. If you would like to join the group, please get in touch with Jax Franklin, we'd love you to join us. The following members will all have posted their own take on the picture if you would like to read them: 1. Jax Franklin 2. Padumachitta 3.Sweetwoodjax 4. TheMomakaDarlene 5. Pantygynt 6. Linda Engel 7. FeralFromMalanda 8. Lightink 9. Justafan 10. Robyn Corum 11. MelB 12. Leineco 13. Amada 14. Evilynn 15. Royowen 16. Chrissy710 17. Pattipac 18. BeasPeas 19. Patcela 20. Margaret Snowdon 21. Trimple 22. Flylikeaneagle 23. jannypan 24. Gert Sherwood 25. Ciliverde 26. Krys 123 27. Eric 1 28. DavisR 29. KittyKatnoel 30. Lance Hill 31. Mark Valentine 32. Gabby Lew 33. GinnyGray 34. Sandra Mitchell 35. Bob Cullen 36. Dejohnsrld (Debbie) 37. OnyxSapphire78 38. MissCookie 39. Neonewman 40. Douglas Paul 41. Sherylsart 42. Joeruptak 43. A.W. Brooks 44. Frogbook 45. PoemsOfDD 46. Notesandmore 47. Debra White 48. Danpald 49. Cheryl9359 50. MacMhuirich 51. Teri 52. Liberty Justice 53. Fastdigits

Chapter 8
Happy Days!

By Sandra Stoner-Mitchell

~~oOo~~

Happy Days!
By Sandra Stoner Mitchell
 

I found this picture yesterday – ‘ere, take a look and see.
Remember old Pa Jones? He took this snap of you and me.
Cor blimey, didn’t we ‘ave fun, just sat there on the sand,
pretendin’ we was toffs, and lived a life so bloomin’ grand.

We ate some whelks and winkles from a frayed old paper cup…
We ‘ad to use the safety pins that ‘eld me knickers up,
to pull the winkles from their shells; oh boy, we ‘ad a laugh.
If the kids ‘ad seen us, they’d a thought us both were daft.

Remember you went paddlin’ with your pants rolled to yer knees?
You wanted me to come in, but I said me toes would freeze!
You messed around so much you didn’t see that big wave come;
it was so high the bloomin’ thing then flicked you on yer bum!

I laughed so ‘ard; you tried to stand, then down you went again.
In stitches, I was laughin’ that I got a bloomin’ pain!
Soaked you were, through to your butt, I’ll not forget that day...
But, now I come to think on it … that’s when you stomped away!

Okay, okay, I’m sorry, but you would’ve laughed at me,
if I’d a been the one that ‘ad been dunked there in the sea.
Alright! I’ll put the snap away; just what is wrong with you?
There ya go, I’ve torn it up – you bloomin’ mis’ry moo!

~~oOo~~

Author Notes

This is totally fiction, it just came to me as I looked at the picture. Mind you, I bet is has happened a few times! LOL. The dialect is supposed to be London Cockney, or as near as I can get it. Whelks and Winkles are sea-food. Winkles look like snails that are boiled and eaten by pulling them out of their shell with a pin. Yummy! lol! We used to collect them from the beaches as children and Gran would boil them for us to eat later. Thank you, Pattipac, for putting this picture on for the 'Picture This' challenge. This is my take of it, there are over fifty of us, so if you have a chance, please have a read of the others. If you would like to join the group, pm Jax Franklin and she will give you all the information.

Chapter 9
An Angel in Disguise

By Sandra Stoner-Mitchell

~~oOo~~

An Angel in Disguise
By Sandra Stoner Mitchell
 
Just like the eye of God, the sun looks down and spears the sea,
with flecks of molten gold, creating ripples endlessly.
The burnished skies and shimm’ring waves with colours blazing bright--
this touch of heaven all around is such a wondrous sight.
 
An angel in disguise soars overhead to fill the sky
with wings that fold and stretch—a vision set to catch the eye.
The stage is set, her soul is free, she dances on the breeze,
her graceful twirls will sweep the sky with tantalising ease.
 
Such beauty brings a tear to fall with unabashed delight,
a glimpse into our Father’s garden is a wondrous sight.
So, if you ever feel alone, just look about, you’ll see
God’s love is all around us now, and evermore will be.
 
~~oOo~~

Chapter 10
Spider Webs Acrostic

By Sandra Stoner-Mitchell

The Spiders Web Acrostic
By Sandra Stoner Mitchell

~~oOo~~

Spider webs are works of art
            Produced with care each perfect part
           In circles shaped with silver threads
         Draped over trees and flower beds
             Each silken line holds strong and true
 Receiving flies and insects, too
 
          When moving home the spiders then
    Eat up their webs and start again
     Born master craftsmen every one
              Spinning their webs are jobs well done.

~~oOo~~

Author Notes

Sorry it's late. This is my take on the Picture This challenge, and it was a challenge too! As much as I'm not a fan of spiders they do serve a very useful function--they keep the fly population down. If you want to join the group, just get in touch with Jax and she will tell you all about it. There are over fifty in the group at the moment, so if you can, please take a look at the others. Thanks for reading this one!! :)

Chapter 11
Oh, Dolly!

By Sandra Stoner-Mitchell

Oh, Dolly!
By Sandra Stoner Mitchell

Oh, Dolly, I must leave you--please don't cry,
You cannot come and I just don't know why.
I pleaded with my mummy, then,
I asked my daddy, too
I told them I'd be extra good
and take good care of you--
They said I had to come and say good-bye,
Oh, Dolly, I must leave you--please don't cry.

Oh, Dolly, will you be alright alone?
I hate to think of you here on your own.
Before I leave you on my bed,
I'll give you one last hug;
then lay you on my fluffy sheet,
so you'll be nice and snug.
My mummy said I must go on my own--
Oh, Dolly, will you be alright alone?

When I come home from school this afternoon
I'll give you some nice ice-cream off my spoon
 

~~oOo~~

 

Author Notes

Thank you for reading my Picture This challenge poem. If anyone would like to join in, it's loads of fun, please PM Jax Franklin. The other members of the group are named below, if you could read their takes on the picture, it would be so appreciated. :) 1) Jax Franklin 2) Sweetwoodjax 3) Pantygynt 4) Linda Engel 5) FeralFromMalanda 6) Justafan 7) Robyn Corum 8) MelB 9) Leineco 10) Amada 11) Evilynne 12) Royowen 13) Chrissy710 14) Pattipac 15) BeasPeas 16) Patcelaw 17) Flylikeaneagle 18) jannypan 19) Ciliverde 20) Eric 1 21) DavisR 22) Lance Hill 23) Mark Valentine 24) Gabby Lew 25) GinnyGray 26) Sandra Mitchell 27) Bob Cullen 28) Dejohnsrld (Debbie) 29) OnyxSapphire78 30) MissCookie 31) Neonewman 32) Douglas Paul 33) Joeruptak 34) A.W. Brooks 35) Frogbook 36) PoemsOfDD 37) Notesandmore 38) Debra White 39) Danpald 40) Cheryl9359 41) MacMhuirich 42) Teri7 43) Liberty Justice 44) Fastdigits 45) Rookette 46) Ddmaewriting 47) Winnona

Chapter 12
By The Sea

By Sandra Stoner-Mitchell

By the Sea
By Sandra Stoner Mitchell

The parents just stand up and stare
at Highland cattle standing there
upon the shore just by the sea
relaxed in this tranquillity

The children play upon the sand
a bucket and a spade at hand
to build their castles on the beach
while cattle stand just out of reach

With pride this picture shows us that
both man and beast can interact
in life the way it's meant to be
all creatures are born to be free

Author Notes

Just a little one for me this time, I am having trouble with my poetry muse, I think it's still on holiday! :( If anyone else wants to join the group, please get in touch with Jax Franklin. Thank you to Ciliverde, Carol for choosing this weeks picture.

Chapter 13
The Big House On The Hill

By Sandra Stoner-Mitchell

The Big House
By Sandra Stoner Mitchell

The Big House stood high on the hill, the grandest place around,
the people who were living there, were royalty, uncrowned.
They entertained the families that had connections to
the Kings and Queens around the world and others that they knew.

The people who lived in the house, the big one on the hill,
believed that where they lived would make their credence better still.
They bought some portraits of nobility from times long past,
pretending they were relatives, and then the die was cast.

When, over time the family bought lands from round about,
they also bought the lake near-by to take their cruiser out.
The gentry came from far away to mix and dine with lords,
this life was what they all desired, but now could ill afford.

The gentry all had mortgages, their hosts were deep in debt,
their children they would marry off, for riches they could get.
But this is where they all fell down, their plans went off the rail,
the children wouldn't play along; their plans were doomed to fail.

The Big House standing on the hill is now owned by the bank,
the moat had taken all their cash and in the water sank.
So if you're looking for a home that stands high on the hill,
I know where one is up for sale--a bargain if you will.

~~oOo~~

Author Notes

'The die was cast'-- 'the die is cast,' is an English idiom meaning, once decided there is no going back. This is my take on the picture, for the Picture This challenge. If you would like to join our group, please get in touch with Jax Franklin.

Chapter 14
Born With Music in His Soul

By Sandra Stoner-Mitchell

Born With Music in His Soul
By Sandra Stoner Mitchell

With his guitar and violin both always close at hand,
this man will play sweet melodies, for all throughout the land.
And when the people flock around I've often heard them say,
"We always hear the angels sing each time he starts to play".

For there's an air about him when he picks up his guitar,
an aura of divinity, you'll feel it from afar.
Some say that he was born with music deep inside his soul,
and he has sworn to share his gift; to please God is his goal.

So, if you listen carefully to whispers in the breeze,
you might just hear the sound of music rustling through the leaves.
or when he strums his old guitar or strokes his violin,
the breeze comes by and plucks it high to carry it within.

~~oOo~~

Author Notes

Thank you DavisR (Rhonda) for choosing this delightful picture. If you'd like to join the Picture This group, please contact, Jax Franklin. There are quite a few of us, so please try to review the others, it's worth a look at how different everyone sees a picture.

Chapter 15
The Setting Sun

By Sandra Stoner-Mitchell

The Setting of the Sun
By Sandra Stoner Mitchell

~~oOo~~

The sky is scorched with splendid shades
of bronze and aztec gold,
And when the sun drops through the clouds,
so night skies soon unfold.
A hush occurs as all the birds,
with heads tucked 'neath their wings,
are soothed to sleep by serenades
the nighttime chorus brings.

As trees receive the day's last glow
upon their leaves of green,
the sun slips further to bequeath
a subtle golden sheen.
And by the time this orb has set,
and gone till dawn is due,
so all will rest, and be refreshed
when day starts out anew.

~~oOo~~

Author Notes

This is my take on the lovely Picture This picture, chosen this time by Lance Hill. If you would like to be apart of the group, please get in touch with Jax Franklin

Chapter 16
His Lighthouse

By Sandra Stoner-Mitchell

His Lighthouse
By Sandra Stoner Mitchell

~~oOo~~

The sea was rough, the waves were high and grey
the sailors prayed to God to show the way
to safer, calmer seas so they might be
allowed to sail back home to family

But every toss the ship was thrown,
so sailors thought they were alone.
They heard the hull, they heard it moan
as it tried hard to take them home.

The sailors thought their prayers had gone unheard,
that in the storm the tide took every word
and tossed them to the bottom of the sea ...
And they believed that's where they soon would be.

And then a shout came from the nest,
a light they'd spied along the crest
was flashing on and off to show the way ...
It was His lighthouse come to save the day.

~~oOo~~
 

Author Notes

This is my take on the Picture This challenge. The rhyme is all over the place, just like the sea! If you would like to join the group, Jax Franklyn is the one to PM.

Chapter 17
Sweet Memories

By Sandra Stoner-Mitchell

~~oOo~~

Sweet Memories
By Sandra Stoner Mitchell

One day when I went back to see the house where I was born
It broke my heart to see it standing so sad and forlorn.
This house that held such memories for me and all my kin
Was calling now for me to go and take a look within.

I saw the house was up for sale, I went and got the keys
Then fought my way through weeds so high and tall neglected trees.
The door creaked as it opened up and took me back to when
I lived there with my mum and dad, all so much younger then.

I saw my brother standing there--a grin upon his face
And dad was smiling next to mum, it was a happy place.
Our family would soon increase, our mum would have two more,
My sister then another boy, this brother made it four.

Such times we had, but all too soon we each of us left home
We all got wed and then we had some children of our own.
As grandparents, our mum and dad, they shone and loved us all.
I stand here with sweet memories as each one I recall.

I looked around and then I left, those times are gone for good,
I'll take my memories with me, this house told me I should.
And now it wants to start again, make memories anew
Like these of mine, perhaps this house will make some just for you.

~~oOo~~

Author Notes

This is my take on the picture this challenge. My choice this time! I hope you enjoy it and can take the time to read the others.

Chapter 18
The Lady is Enticing!

By Sandra Stoner-Mitchell

~~oOo~~

The Lady is Enticing
By Sandra Stoner Mitchell

The lady is enticing urging men to come inside
With promises of pleasure guaranteed to be supplied
But as they reach the open door, they all must pay a fee
As pleasure is expensive and they know that nothing's free

The lady in her golden dress has eyes that do beguile
And there is such temptation hidden in her cheeky smile
The men all put their money in the tin inside the door
And eagerly await the pleasures they've been hoping for

Then once inside, the door is closed, and darkness dims the day
The men now let their senses and their noses lead the way
Another door then opens freeing smells they can't deny
And now they're drooling for their slice of home-made apple pie!

~~oOo~~

Author Notes

I hope you liked my bit of fun for the Picture This challenge. If anyone wants to join our group, please get in touch with Jax Franklin. My thanks to Ginny Gray for choosing this lovely picture.

Chapter 19
The Journey

By Sandra Stoner-Mitchell

*~~oOo~~*

The Journey
By Sandra Stoner Mitchell

'Twas the twenty-fourth September in eighteen-ninety-two,
I'd journeyed on a steam train in my quest to be with you.
It was a fearsome venture for a lady on her own
to travel through uncharted lands so very far from home.

I'd heard about such frightful things that happened on a train,
and though I'd tried to still my heart, my efforts were in vain.
The deeper into savage land, the more concerned was I
of reaching you, my one true love--I'd feared that I might die.

I'd heard the whistle loud and clear, I'd heard some shooting too,
and, looking out the window, I did not know what to do.
I saw so many Indians, with paint on every face,
and though the train was going fast, their horses had kept pace.

The ladies had been screaming when the train was slowing down,
but I'd been feared to silence wishing I was back in town.
My parents had desired for me to wait until you came,
but I'd been so determined, I had only me to blame.

The Indians had come on board, and they killed every man.
The women, they would take away but shoot them if they ran--
while I'd sat very quietly and tried to hide from view--
just hoping they'd not see me there, was all that I could do.

And then I'd heard the cavalry come charging from the rear;
the Indians would not give up, they made that very clear.
The cavalry fought hard and long, the Indians did too,
and when it was all over, it was then that I saw you.

I'd called your name out loudly, and you came and held me tight.
And now it seems so long ago as I sit here this night,
describing to our grandchildren how you had rescued me.
My hero, you're my only love, as God meant you to be.

*~~oOo~~*

Author Notes

Thank you for reading my take on the Picture This challenge. If anyone would like to join the group, please PM Jax Franklin. It's all good fun. Please take a look at the other members takes of the Picture This group. Jax Franklin, Sweetwoodjax , Pantygynt, Linda Engel, FezFromMalanda, Justafan, Corum_Robyn, MelB, Leineco, Amadaz, Evilynne, Roy Owen, Chrissy710, Pattipac, BeasPeas, Patcelaw, Flylikeaneagle, Jannypan, Eric1, DavisR, Lance Hill, Gabby Lew , GinnyGray, Debbie Johnson, OnyxSapphire78, MissCookie, Neonewman , Douglas Paul, Sherylsart , Joeruptak, A.W.brooks, Frogbook , POEMSOfDD , Notesandmore, Debra White , Danpald, Cheryl9359, MacMhuirich , Teri7, Liberty Justice, Fast Digits , Rookette/Leslie, Ddmaewriting, Winnona, Heyjude, Dellabananas, Bookishfabler, Aryr,

Chapter 21
The Storm

By Sandra Stoner-Mitchell

The Storm
By Sandra Stoner Mitchell

The waves were rolling higher than the mast upon the boat
The Captain shouted orders as they tried to stay afloat
The wind was screaming loud as if it was the devil's wail
It tore and clawed the rigging that was holding up the sail

The bow was lifted up which put the keel under duress
It groaned and shrieked and shuddered as if dying in distress
As seamen fought to save themselves against the raging squall
They heard a sudden sound which was familiar to them all

The men then looked across the waves and gliding near the tide
They saw two sea-gulls flying, and the gale start to subside
The sea-gulls are God's messengers, and this they understand
He sent them there to tell the men they were now close to land

With faith the turmoil of the sea can soon become a pond
As God will walk beside you in this life and then beyond

~~oOo~~

Author Notes

This is my take on the Picture This challenge. I hope you like it. I know it was the dove that God sent to Noah, but it's the sea-gulls that are seen mostly out at sea which tell seamen they close to land. I'm sure God sends then too. :) If anyone wants to join the group, please get in touch with Jax Franklin.

Chapter 22
They Took It All Away

By Sandra Stoner-Mitchell

~~oOo~~

They Took it all Away
By Sandra Stoner Mitchell

He was a man of pride, he had a home and family,
a wife, he loved, and children, everything as it should be.
He loved his job, he did it well, he couldn't want for more,
until that day when his world crashed and life fell through the floor.

The management called everyone to meet that dreadful day,
and all were told the company was closed; they could not pay
their wages now, as shares had crashed, their pensions had gone too.
The management were sorry--there was nothing they could do.

Without his wages coming in, and no work there to find,
his home was repossessed and suddenly life was unkind.
His wife left with the children as he hit an all-time low,
she went back to her parents--she had no place else to go.

As time went by, with hope all gone, his home was in the park,
his bed was just an old hard bench, he'd go there after dark.
On sunny days, the nights were warm, but winter would arrive
and chill him to the bone; he knew he never would survive.

One night when he was fast asleep, the snow began to fall,
and in his frozen mind he thought he heard an angel call.
He felt a hand slip into his, and someone call his name,
his eyelids fluttered open as he heard the voice again.

And there she stood, with gentle smile that brought him from the brink,
she helped him up and took him where they gave him food and drink.
She gave him back his dignity, she took away his pain--
she brought him back to life, and then she helped him start again.

The man who fell asleep that night beneath a freezing sky,
Is testament to kindness; she refused to let him die.

~~oOo~~

Author Notes

Thank you for reading my Picture This challenge. If you would like to join the members, please get is touch with Jax Franklin.

Chapter 23
Under His Umbrella

By Sandra Stoner-Mitchell

~~oOo~~

Under His Umbrella
By Sandra Stoner Mitchell

He opens his umbrella over rambling flowerbeds,
and sits there when the noonday sun reclines just overhead--
he'll take his pad and pencils out, and sketch till end of day,
then when the sun sets gracefully, he'll pack it all away.

He is the only artist from a thousand painters known
who draws the way the landscape is, the way it should be shown.
His creativity brings life and purpose to the fore,
by using nature's pigments to reflect the inner core.

He's done this now for many years, he'll do it till he dies.
He'll watch the landscape changing underneath the shifting skies,
then paint it on his canvas so that everyone can see
the beauty that is all around and given to us free.

While Nature creates images to please us every day,
the artist does it equally but in a different way.

~~oOo~~

Chapter 24
She Walked with God

By Sandra Stoner-Mitchell

~~oOo~~

She Walked with God
By Sandra Stoner Mitchell

Her hair was silver, flecked with gold, her eyes were emerald green,
her mind filled with the memories of good things she had seen.
She had a tranquil aura--a soft gentleness so rare,
and emanated love and joy to everybody there.

We all sat very quietly, expectant and beguiled--
while she told stories of her trips to every spellbound child.
She'd travelled far throughout her life to spread God's holy word,
and went to places no one knew, with names we'd never heard.

She'd been across the ocean, and trekked many jungles too,
brought Jesus to the children, made them see the world anew.
She told us tales of those she'd met, how humbled she had been,
by all the kindness she'd been shown and wonders she had seen.

We saw the glow shine in her eyes, the soft smile on her face--
and we knew as we looked at her--she walked in God's embrace.

~~oOo~~

Author Notes

This came from a memory of missionaries who would visit our church when I was a child. I was enthralled by some of the wonderful stories they told us. Thank you for reading. Picture from Google images. xx

Chapter 25
She's Turned To Stone

By Sandra Stoner-Mitchell

~~oOo~~
 
She's Turned to Stone
By Sandra Stoner Mitchell
 
The sun blazed down to boil the day, the cold moon froze the night,
The air was stifled by the rays, a daily, searing blight.
The people who were still alive found moving hard to bear,
They sat around all comatose; ‘twas hard to breath this air.
 
One day, a drifter wandered into town and looked around--
he walked into the nearest bar—the last one to be found.
The men looked up, surprised to see this stranger come inside;
he stared at them through tortured eyes, his pain he couldn’t hide.
 
He had a drink, a whiskey neat, and then said, “Same again.”
He drank to take away the sights and to remove the pain.
He turned around and then he said, “I have a tale to tell
about a world that we once had but now has gone to hell.
 
“I’ve been around the world and seen an Earth once plush and green,
Where rivers flowed, and forests grew, and people were not mean.
Where life was good, and people loved, while rain brought life anew,
when stars came out, the moon was bright, as night-time hid the blue.
 
“But greed came by and squeezed the world, we took all that we could;
The more we seized, and less we gave, we never understood—
to raze the trees, we'd take the lungs that clean the air we breathe,
And now they’re gone, there’s nothing left our children to bequeath.

"We raped our planet ruthlessly, we stripped her to the bone,
we took the heart from Mother Earth, and now she’s turned to stone.”

~~oOo~~

Chapter 26
Beauty on the Inside

By Sandra Stoner-Mitchell

~~oOo~~
Beauty on the inside.
By Sandra Stoner Mitchell

I have a story, sad to tell, but one the world should know,
about a happy, privileged town, where you might wish to go.
The buildings were so colourful, domed castles everywhere;
and flowers bloomed the whole year through, their perfume filled the air.

The people had their heart's desire and lived it every day;
the children only had to ask for it to come their way.
But that was many years ago, their laughter has long gone,
the sun's been banished from this town, now rain goes on and on.

You see, one day a woman came, so tired, old and worn,
with ravaged face, despairing eyes, her clothes unwashed and torn.
But when she begged for food and drink, some straw to make her bed;
the people gathered sticks and stones and drove her out instead.

It's said that's when the rains began, and grey skies hid the sun;
the people lived a blighted life, a curse touched everyone.
The pall now serves as penance for their ugly inner sin,
for beauty on the outside is no good if not within.

~~oOo~~

Author Notes

Sorry, it's a bit late, just come home from my lovely holiday in Italy, I'll write about it later and catch up with reviewing. I hope you enjoy my take on the picture. If you'd like to join our group, please get in touch with Jax. It's such good fun.

Chapter 27
A Wedding Wearing Pearls

By Sandra Stoner-Mitchell

~~oOo~~

A Wedding Wearing Pearls
By Sandra Stoner Mitchell

The calming touch of creamy pearls lay cool upon her hand,
Such elegance, a pure delight, made from a grain of sand.
Now passed on to the lady and then twisted through her hair
to compliment her wedding dress, and silken veil she'll wear.

The timeless beauty of the pearl, created over years,
is said to give the bearer many sad and troubled tears;
that if your husband gives them he is sure to make you cry,
but this is just another myth, another folklore lie.

The wearer of the pearl will have a strong relationship,
a caring, loyal person, with a smile upon the lips.
The marriage will be lasting, and each child will be adored,
the pearl conveys you're happy with your life and self-assured.

So if you're given pearls to wear upon your wedding day
don't listen to the pessimists, as love will guide the way.

~~oOo~~

Author Notes

Pearls: Symbolism, Myths, Meaning: Pearls symbolize wisdom acquired through experience. They are believed to attract wealth and luck as well as offer protection. Known for their calming effect, pearls can balance one's karma, strengthen relationships, and keep children safe. The pearl is also said to symbolize the purity, generosity, integrity, and loyalty of its wearer. The Meaning of Coloured Pearls: Blue: The wearer will find love Black or gold: Wealth and prosperity Pink: Success, fame, and good fortune Brown: Practicality, dependability, and harmony White: Innocence, beauty, purity, and new beginnings One of the earliest religious accounts of the pearl claims that Adam and Eve wept after they were cast out of Paradise, creating a lake of pearls. The white pearls were believed to be from Eve's tears, and the black pearls Adam's. It is further said that men are better able to control their emotions, and so Adam shed fewer tears than Eve. This explains the rarity of the black pearl. Other religious references to pearls include: Christians and Hindus adopted the pearl as a symbol of purity. The tradition of a bride wearing pearls on her wedding day continues to this day. By the Middle Ages, pearls were considered sacred Christian objects due to their association with religious purity. Early Christians said the pearls covering the Holy Grail made its water pure. The Koran speaks of pearls as one of the great rewards found in Paradise, and the gem itself has become a symbol of perfection. Thank you for reading my take on the Picture This poem. If you would like to join our friendly group, please get in touch with Jax Franklin.

Chapter 28
If I Could Turn Back Time

By Sandra Stoner-Mitchell

~~oOo~~

If I Could Turn Back Time
By Sandra Stoner Mitchell

If we could turn back time again and have a second go--
but taking with us things we did and all we came to know,

I wonder what we’d change about the lives we live today;

would we still walk the route we took, or go a different way?
 
How many times I’ve wanted to take back a spoken word,
or wished that what I’d said aloud had not been overheard.
How many times I wished I’d told someone how much I cared;
but time rushed by, and too late now, those feelings can’t be shared.
 
Sometimes I get so cross with time, it never takes a breath;
 it marches on relentlessly, from birth until our death.
We can’t go back, it is a fact, we cannot change the past.
There’s nothing else quite like it; time’s a factor made to last.
 
But, if I could, I know I would repeat some things I’ve done--
enjoy the life I lived with both my parents and my sons.
The love I’ve shared, with nothing spared, was worth the time apart,
for what I had with them will always live within my heart.
 
~~oOo~~

Author Notes

I'm trying to catch up on some of my Picture This challenges.

Chapter 29
Deceivers

By Sandra Stoner-Mitchell

Deceiver
By Sandra Stoner Mitchell
 
She looked at him, her eyes were grim, she knew what he had done
 behind her back, he’d turned the rack--he’d hoodwinked everyone.
He’d used his guiles and winsome smiles to catch the boss’s eye,
and now he’s done, promotion’s won, her temper’s set to fly.
 
Some strings were pulled, and she’d been fooled; now it was very clear,
he’d told her lies, stared in her eyes, then stolen her idea.
She’d tried to fight, for what was right, but he knew that he had
just won the day, his evil way, and she was feeling mad.
 
She’ll catch him out, without a doubt, she knows that come what may--
those strings he’d tugged and left her mugged, will strangle him one day.
For those who cheat, cannot defeat the honest and the true,
they’ll tumble down and lose the crown as all deceivers do.
 
~~oOo~~

Author Notes

I'm still trying to catch up. Not many left to do. Thank you for reading my take on the picture.

Chapter 30
When Rain Obscures the Light

By Sandra Stoner-Mitchell

~~oOo~~

When Rain Obscures the Light
By Sandra Stoner Mitchell

He wanders through the city streets when rain obscures the light,
His eyes are lowered, collar up, his face is out of sight.
The shadows of the people passing by are unaware--
They do not know this enigmatic man is even there.

His heart was taken long ago; she stole it with a kiss.
He'd never known such happiness, his waking hours' bliss;
She'd given him the joy of life, the laughter and the fun,
And when the sky was overcast, her smile brought out the sun.

Until that day when he woke up to grey clouds in the sky,
His love had gone away, he knew not where, or even why.
He's searched the whole world over, and he'll search for ever more--
Until she's in his arms again, his heart's a shrivelled core.

He wanders through the city streets when rain obscures the light.
A broken shell of who he was, he disappears from sight.

~~oOo~~

Author Notes

Sorry it's late!

Chapter 31
A Fairy Story

By Sandra Stoner-Mitchell

~~oOo~~
 
A Fairy Story
By Sandra Stoner Mitchell
 
She started off a poor wench who would seek a better life,
so sought a rich and famous man, and vowed to be his wife.
Her name was Anastasia, her beauty was so rare,
her eyes were liquid pools of blue, and starlight bathed her hair.
With skin of cream and dimples on her cheeks each time she smiled,
It was no wonder that each man she met became beguiled.
 ><
The King of Lancaster rode out into the woods one day;
a kindly man and truly loved by all who passed his way.
He spied the maiden as she sat beneath the big oak tree--
her beauty so enchanted him, he said, “Pray, come with me.
I’ll shower you with gold and pearls, and gowns of finest silk,
and you can bathe in perfumed oils all of the finest ilk.”
>< 
She coyly smiled and took his arm, and promised she would stay
and be his queen from that day forth, until his dying day.
He showered her with all his wealth, and sat her on the throne,
until one day, to his dismay, he heard the people moan.
With taxes raised to keep his bride, he’d let his subjects down;
 he said he’d give the money back, or abdicate his crown.
>< 
Queen Anastasia then tried and failed to change his mind,
because the king had realised this love had made him blind.
He said she had bewitched him and that now his eyes could see,
he’d lock her in the dungeon and then throw away the key.
The queen had been prepared for this, pretending now to cry,
she pricked him with her poisoned ring, and then she watched him die.
><  
Before the king took his last breath, he opened up his eyes,
he smiled, and said these words to her, much to the queen’s surprise.
“You’ve only killed my body, but my spirit is still strong,
I’ll stay here till you go to hell, which is where you belong.”
The king had died still smiling, and his spirit slipped away,
the queen would see him always, he’d stay with her night and day.
 ><
No happy ever after comes with this new fairy tale,
But if you listen you will hear the queen’s satanic wail.
 
~~oOo~~

Author Notes

I posted an earlier one, about the puzzle for the Picture This challenge, and then discovered it wasn't the right picture. I have no idea where the picture came from, but here is the real picture this challenge poem. Thank you for reading this one too. Now going to lie down in a darkened room! xxx

Chapter 32
That Little Piece

By Sandra Stoner-Mitchell

~~~~oOo~~~~
 
That Little Piece
Sandra Stoner Mitchell
 

When I was just a child of four, my mother gave to me
a picture box of pieces and I thought, what could they be?
Each little piece a different shape, with bits of pictures on,
and then my mother told me I must find where they belong.
><
With tongue jammed tight between my teeth I concentrated hard,
and picked up every little piece cut from a picture card.
I tried to make the pieces join together every day,
I thumped and pushed but in the end I just went out to play.
><
Each year I had another and each time I struggled too,
Until one year I mastered it and I knew what to do.
‘Twas then my mother told me that real life is just like this,
With patience and persistence, you’ll enjoy a life of bliss.
><
So if an opportunity comes knocking on your door,
It might just be that little piece that you’ve been looking for.

~~~~oOo~~~~

Chapter 33
The Strange Encounter

By Sandra Stoner-Mitchell

~~oOo~~

The Strange Encounter
By Sandra Stoner Mitchell

The tension stretched between them seemed to sway,
as yellow eyes were focused on the man--
who stood so still he could not turn away,
while knowing he'd be foolish if he ran.

So, softly now, he hummed a soothing tune
that stirred the air between them with a sigh.
The wolf was list'ning keenly to him croon,
while standing proudly with his head held high.

The look he gave soon changed from fearsome scowl,
an ancient wisdom came into his eyes;
then suddenly the wolf began to howl,
the man was mesmerised with sheer surprise.

The wolf then yip yipped as he turned away...
and Man knew he would not forget this day.

~~oOO~~

Author Notes

Yip yipping, is the sound of the wolf. UK spelling.Thank you so much for reading. xxx

Chapter 34
The Lady and Her Young Man

By Sandra Stoner-Mitchell

~~oOo~~

The Lady and Her Young Man
By Sandra Stoner Mitchell
 
The lady holds her parasol and steps out in the sun,
with dainty shoes upon her feet and clothes stylishly spun.
Her tiny hands encased in tasteful gloves of Irish lace;
she walks along the promenade—a smile lights up her face.
 
The young man stood there waiting for the lady to arrive;
discretion is the only way for their love to survive.
A lady shouldn’t be alone when she’s out with a man,
but social difference means it is the only way she can.
 
He is a humble worker on her father’s large estate,
and as a husband for his daughter he’d not tolerate.
Although their love for one another couldn’t be denied—
until he could provide for her, their love they’d have to hide.
 
She saw him standing near the ice-cream parlour by the sea,
he turned, and when she saw him smile her heart leapt eagerly.
She passed him by and went around the corner out of sight,
and moments later she was being kissed to her delight.
 
Such times as these became the norm, they tried to meet each day
and steadfastly they swore that one day soon they’d run away.
He’d find a home for them somewhere her father wouldn’t find,
where they could be together, but sometimes life is unkind.
 
One day when they were walking quietly beside the shore,
the lady felt her heart stop when she heard her father’s roar.
He’d guessed something was going on, and followed close behind,
and now that he had caught them out, his anger turned his mind.
  
The reputation of the family had been destroyed,
through an illicit dalliance his daughter had enjoyed.
She’d shamed his name disgracefully; the rules had been ignored,
he would disown this daughter whom till now he had adored.
 
With no employment, her young man was forced to look around,
although, without a reference a job would not be found.
The lady had no home, and what she’d do she didn’t know.
With no help from her so-called friends, she had no place to go.
 
The lady and her young man sat beside the ocean blue,
as neither knew where they could live, or even what to do.
It is a fact that scandal travels faster than the wind,
and they were cast aside by all convinced they both had sinned.
 
But sometimes news can reach someone who really doesn’t care
for status or nobility, so long as love is there.
And in this case, it happened that a lady of renown
instructed her solicitor to track the couple down.
 
The search was on, it wasn’t long—they found them just in time,
And brought them to the Duchess, who believed it was a crime
to banish these young people just because they were in love,
she said romance and couples go together hand in glove.
 
The lady, now companion to the Duchess, beams with joy
Her young man’s very happy to be also in employ.
The Duchess gave them ‘happy ever after’ as she said,
“God blessed your life, He blessed your love, He’ll bless you as you wed.”
 
~~oOo~~

Author Notes

Thank you, all, for reading my poem/story. The picture is from Google Images. Family = 3 syllables. ie: Fam-i-ly :) xx

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