It is from here, atop my berth,
that I face a New Year with GREAT mirth!
Sally
(BTW Happy 2013!!!)
Monday, 31 December 2012
Sunday, 30 December 2012
Saturday, 29 December 2012
Friday, 28 December 2012
Don't Say the S Word
Awake by 9:00, crusty with delicious dreams.
Baking cinnamon buns for breakfast, and other delectable treats.
Coffee is the life source for all of the adults.
Dinners are well thought out and extravagant.
Every moment is savoured, luxuriated in...
Feeling the holiday mood!
Sally
Awake by 9:00, crusty with delicious dreams.
Baking cinnamon buns for breakfast, and other delectable treats.
Coffee is the life source for all of the adults.
Dinners are well thought out and extravagant.
Every moment is savoured, luxuriated in...
Feeling the holiday mood!
Sally
Thursday, 27 December 2012
Wednesday, 26 December 2012
Sojourn
There is a point
when the fundamentals
of vacationing
penetrate the
encrusted layers
of stress,
causing one to
lose track of
all scheduling
and time.
Reading begins to
take place
as frequently,
and autonomically,
as breathing.
Sleep evolves
to hold the same
significance as
three meals a day.
Kisses are frequent,
laughter is bodacious,
and chocolate
is deposited in
every corner.
It is the memory
of these
precious and
unforgettable times,
that keeps
the daily grind
tolerable...
mostly.
Sally
There is a point
when the fundamentals
of vacationing
penetrate the
encrusted layers
of stress,
causing one to
lose track of
all scheduling
and time.
Reading begins to
take place
as frequently,
and autonomically,
as breathing.
Sleep evolves
to hold the same
significance as
three meals a day.
Kisses are frequent,
laughter is bodacious,
and chocolate
is deposited in
every corner.
It is the memory
of these
precious and
unforgettable times,
that keeps
the daily grind
tolerable...
mostly.
Sally
Tuesday, 25 December 2012
Cool Canadian
The biggest surprise
this holiday season
was Michael Buble´.
I was under the
impression that he
was a
pretty faced
pop star.
I don't listen
to the radio,
so I was
entirely in the
dark.
My daughter received
his Christmas album,
and that boy
CAN SING!
Not my optimal genre,
but I was in awe
of the quality
of his instrument.
It's always nice
to discover
spectacular art,
even if I'm a few
years behind.
Happy Season to ALL!
Sally
The biggest surprise
this holiday season
was Michael Buble´.
I was under the
impression that he
was a
pretty faced
pop star.
I don't listen
to the radio,
so I was
entirely in the
dark.
My daughter received
his Christmas album,
and that boy
CAN SING!
Not my optimal genre,
but I was in awe
of the quality
of his instrument.
It's always nice
to discover
spectacular art,
even if I'm a few
years behind.
Happy Season to ALL!
Sally
Monday, 24 December 2012
Sunday, 23 December 2012
Saturday, 22 December 2012
Respite
The catapult shudders
under the strain of its load.
The burden of rocks,
the encumbrance of
excessive weight,
stifling the contraption
into submission.
With a final countdown,
and an act of
climactic precision,
the load is unleashed.
Immediately a quiver
of reverberating release
spirals down the
mighty weapon.
Pulsating in intoxicating
satisfaction.
Entirely immersing
in the glorious waves
of freedom.
Luxuriating in every second
of unencumbered joy.
Burying any
rumination of
repeated torture.
Submerging any thoughts
of impending work.
Captivated by the
tranquility of the
now.
Intentionally
succumbing
to the present.
Sally
The catapult shudders
under the strain of its load.
The burden of rocks,
the encumbrance of
excessive weight,
stifling the contraption
into submission.
With a final countdown,
and an act of
climactic precision,
the load is unleashed.
Immediately a quiver
of reverberating release
spirals down the
mighty weapon.
Pulsating in intoxicating
satisfaction.
Entirely immersing
in the glorious waves
of freedom.
Luxuriating in every second
of unencumbered joy.
Burying any
rumination of
repeated torture.
Submerging any thoughts
of impending work.
Captivated by the
tranquility of the
now.
Intentionally
succumbing
to the present.
Sally
Friday, 21 December 2012
Thursday, 20 December 2012
Wednesday, 19 December 2012
Tuesday, 18 December 2012
Monday, 17 December 2012
St. Good Old Days
Atop the pinnacle of scholastic excellence,
the final remnant of classic literature
unravels with surrendered defeat.
Replaced by a carbon copy
of its sagacious predecessor.
Deceived and battered by the
leverage of the mighty dollar.
Sinking,
while the conductor's
still waving her arms.
Sally
Atop the pinnacle of scholastic excellence,
the final remnant of classic literature
unravels with surrendered defeat.
Replaced by a carbon copy
of its sagacious predecessor.
Deceived and battered by the
leverage of the mighty dollar.
Sinking,
while the conductor's
still waving her arms.
Sally
Sunday, 16 December 2012
Saturday, 15 December 2012
December 16th, 1995
Seventeen years ago today
I was shopping for shoes
and rushing about.
I recall stacking
hard cover books
on a high shelf.
I was nesting and
sure enough
the next morning,
I went into labour
with my first child.
Desmond
you are a gift.
You have always been
a miraculous human to love.
You enrich my existence
in every way.
Happy Birthday Son!!!
Sally
Seventeen years ago today
I was shopping for shoes
and rushing about.
I recall stacking
hard cover books
on a high shelf.
I was nesting and
sure enough
the next morning,
I went into labour
with my first child.
Desmond
you are a gift.
You have always been
a miraculous human to love.
You enrich my existence
in every way.
Happy Birthday Son!!!
Sally
Friday, 14 December 2012
Thursday, 13 December 2012
Wednesday, 12 December 2012
Late Night
As I sit here in my classroom,
awaiting the late night play.
I watch with disbelief,
the custodians I see all day.
They work so diligently,
polishing as they go.
A harder crew of scrubbers and cleaners
I really do not know!
They take an enormous amount of time
to care for us each day.
They make our school look loved and nurtured
in their special way.
There's Nathan and Sidney,
Pedro, Fermin and Rose.
Do not forget Amador, Hymie and Purita,
and the wonderful Lito.
Without them we'd be helpless,
in need of a good team.
Thanks to them our whole community,
benefits from their gleam!!!!!!
Bless you for taking the time
to do your jobs with heart!
May you and yours enjoy the season,
let's hope we never part!!!!!
Merry Christmas
and Happy 2013!!!!
Sally
As I sit here in my classroom,
awaiting the late night play.
I watch with disbelief,
the custodians I see all day.
They work so diligently,
polishing as they go.
A harder crew of scrubbers and cleaners
I really do not know!
They take an enormous amount of time
to care for us each day.
They make our school look loved and nurtured
in their special way.
There's Nathan and Sidney,
Pedro, Fermin and Rose.
Do not forget Amador, Hymie and Purita,
and the wonderful Lito.
Without them we'd be helpless,
in need of a good team.
Thanks to them our whole community,
benefits from their gleam!!!!!!
Bless you for taking the time
to do your jobs with heart!
May you and yours enjoy the season,
let's hope we never part!!!!!
Merry Christmas
and Happy 2013!!!!
Sally
Tuesday, 11 December 2012
Reggae Radio
After a hard day on the job,
when I'm making supper,
I set up the laptop and
play Reggae music.
When I do,
my innards wobble to the beat.
I chop the carrots
in a Babylon style.
It soothes,
and hypnotizes me to move smoothly
through the work.
Before I know it,
I'm floating back from
the beaches of Jamaica.
Back into my kitchen
where supper awaits,
as if by some miracle.
Haile Selassie!
Sally
After a hard day on the job,
when I'm making supper,
I set up the laptop and
play Reggae music.
When I do,
my innards wobble to the beat.
I chop the carrots
in a Babylon style.
It soothes,
and hypnotizes me to move smoothly
through the work.
Before I know it,
I'm floating back from
the beaches of Jamaica.
Back into my kitchen
where supper awaits,
as if by some miracle.
Haile Selassie!
Sally
Monday, 10 December 2012
Sunday, 9 December 2012
Saturday, 8 December 2012
Friday, 7 December 2012
Thursday, 6 December 2012
Wednesday, 5 December 2012
Epiphany
As she held the notice in her hand,
her insides gave a quivering gallop.
She thought they were done.
She thought she saw a light at the end
of the massive debt tunnel.
Apparently not.
In a moment of complete despair,
she went through the motions
of making supper.
Then she ran to her room and
burst into tears.
She let herself feel sad,
feel vulnerable and defeated.
She let herself have a full blown
pity weep.
It nurtured her inner princess,
in a way she needed to be consoled.
Just as her self indulgence gained the potential
to spiral into self deprecation,
there was a knock on her door.
It was her son.
He was asking if he could skip dinner.
The dinner she started preparing at
7:00 am... baking croutons
and polluting the house with
AM au du garlic.
The lasagna she dutifully layered,
although all she really wanted to do
was go upstairs and cry.
THAT DINNER...
He was asking to skip.
She asked why.
He said that his girlfriend loves
crème brûlée.
He bought a torch today.
He wanted his dad to give
him a ride to the grocery store,
so he could buy white sugar.
Then he wanted to go to her house
and make her dessert.
He was too excited to eat.
He asked if it was OK
to be excused.
It hit her like a
baseball to the nose.
TO HELL WITH MONEY!
She saw it,
what was entirely more important.
She had a son
who cared enough about a girl
to bend over backwards to be cute,
and kind, and loving.
He spent his hard earned salary
on a blow torch,
so her could make her
crème brûlée.
The kid is GOLD.
The kid's a MILLION BUCKS!
What more could she ask for?
Sally
As she held the notice in her hand,
her insides gave a quivering gallop.
She thought they were done.
She thought she saw a light at the end
of the massive debt tunnel.
Apparently not.
In a moment of complete despair,
she went through the motions
of making supper.
Then she ran to her room and
burst into tears.
She let herself feel sad,
feel vulnerable and defeated.
She let herself have a full blown
pity weep.
It nurtured her inner princess,
in a way she needed to be consoled.
Just as her self indulgence gained the potential
to spiral into self deprecation,
there was a knock on her door.
It was her son.
He was asking if he could skip dinner.
The dinner she started preparing at
7:00 am... baking croutons
and polluting the house with
AM au du garlic.
The lasagna she dutifully layered,
although all she really wanted to do
was go upstairs and cry.
THAT DINNER...
He was asking to skip.
She asked why.
He said that his girlfriend loves
crème brûlée.
He bought a torch today.
He wanted his dad to give
him a ride to the grocery store,
so he could buy white sugar.
Then he wanted to go to her house
and make her dessert.
He was too excited to eat.
He asked if it was OK
to be excused.
It hit her like a
baseball to the nose.
TO HELL WITH MONEY!
She saw it,
what was entirely more important.
She had a son
who cared enough about a girl
to bend over backwards to be cute,
and kind, and loving.
He spent his hard earned salary
on a blow torch,
so her could make her
crème brûlée.
The kid is GOLD.
The kid's a MILLION BUCKS!
What more could she ask for?
Sally
Tuesday, 4 December 2012
Monday, 3 December 2012
Sunday, 2 December 2012
Saturday, 1 December 2012
Black Stilettos
My son loves high healed shoes to wear,
he prances through the store.
Some people stop and stare at him,
as he tightropes to the door.
He taps, and twirls and sashays,
and spins forevermore.
It seems his long and agile legs
are connected to the floor.
All the time he does not care
to pay any attention,
to those that think his shoe fetish,
is something NOT to mention.
I love how safe and comfortable
that he is in his body.
I love how all his energy,
goes into his dancing hobby.
I really have the coolest son,
and I can't wait to see,
the fun and loving adult,
that he will grow to be!
Sally
My son loves high healed shoes to wear,
he prances through the store.
Some people stop and stare at him,
as he tightropes to the door.
He taps, and twirls and sashays,
and spins forevermore.
It seems his long and agile legs
are connected to the floor.
All the time he does not care
to pay any attention,
to those that think his shoe fetish,
is something NOT to mention.
I love how safe and comfortable
that he is in his body.
I love how all his energy,
goes into his dancing hobby.
I really have the coolest son,
and I can't wait to see,
the fun and loving adult,
that he will grow to be!
Sally
Friday, 30 November 2012
Thursday, 29 November 2012
Sticks & Stones
In a jingle jangled corner
in a cottage on the floor,
lives a tiny troll named Wilson
and his buddy Frank the boar.
Together they make pudding,
and read tales about times passed.
Neither is good looking,
and they often get harassed.
Why is it that they don't care,
about other's opinions?
They hold the secret true and fair,
and honor no Dominions.
They live by their own call and code,
by Nature's rules and laughter.
They hold the key to happiness
that we're all chasing after.
Sally
In a jingle jangled corner
in a cottage on the floor,
lives a tiny troll named Wilson
and his buddy Frank the boar.
Together they make pudding,
and read tales about times passed.
Neither is good looking,
and they often get harassed.
Why is it that they don't care,
about other's opinions?
They hold the secret true and fair,
and honor no Dominions.
They live by their own call and code,
by Nature's rules and laughter.
They hold the key to happiness
that we're all chasing after.
Sally
Wednesday, 28 November 2012
To Wit
In the door
to the sign in book.
To the whiteboard
to set up the day.
To the photocopier
to prep the work.
To a meeting
to plan the strategy.
To work through lunch,
sneaking in a bite.
To the stage
to present the material.
To the desk
to answer questions.
To listen,
to solve,
to mediate,
to calm,
to encourage,
to motivate,
to appease,
to understand,
to support,
to clarify,
to repeat,
to repeat,
to repeat...
To conclude,
to tidy the desks.
To organize,
to prepare for tomorrow.
To turn out the lights,
and pray for the energy
to make it home...
With a smile left
for those who
TRULY matter!
Sally
In the door
to the sign in book.
To the whiteboard
to set up the day.
To the photocopier
to prep the work.
To a meeting
to plan the strategy.
To work through lunch,
sneaking in a bite.
To the stage
to present the material.
To the desk
to answer questions.
To listen,
to solve,
to mediate,
to calm,
to encourage,
to motivate,
to appease,
to understand,
to support,
to clarify,
to repeat,
to repeat,
to repeat...
To conclude,
to tidy the desks.
To organize,
to prepare for tomorrow.
To turn out the lights,
and pray for the energy
to make it home...
With a smile left
for those who
TRULY matter!
Sally
Tuesday, 27 November 2012
Monday, 26 November 2012
Sunday, 25 November 2012
Saturday, 24 November 2012
Condon Kudos
I read
The Twilight Saga
because I was
teaching
Grade 6.
There was a
Twilight frenzy,
and I was
curious to
understand what
my students were
devouring.
I took the books
out of the
Public Library
and
proceeded to read
over 1200 pages
in one weekend.
I was mesmerized
by the simplicity
of the story, and
by the intensity
of the
love.
I have since
read the series
three times through.
Once with my daughter,
and once
on another
weekend
when I was craving
the stark
emotional content.
I took my kids to
the movies
when they made
their appearance
in theatres.
I valued the fact
that each film was
an artistic
expression
by another director.
They were unique,
as the cinematic
interpretation
of a book
often is.
Today,
we went to see
Breaking Dawn Part II
and I was
impressed.
It seems ideal that
the series was
wrapped up by
Mr. Bill Condon.
The film was an
outstanding
representation
of the book.
It gave such closure
and completion
to the tale.
I LOVED IT!
Thank you
Stephanie Meyers
for your wild
and endearing story,
and thank you
to all those involved
in the film-making
phenomenon!
It has been a
truly satisfying
journey.
Sally
I read
The Twilight Saga
because I was
teaching
Grade 6.
There was a
Twilight frenzy,
and I was
curious to
understand what
my students were
devouring.
I took the books
out of the
Public Library
and
proceeded to read
over 1200 pages
in one weekend.
I was mesmerized
by the simplicity
of the story, and
by the intensity
of the
love.
I have since
read the series
three times through.
Once with my daughter,
and once
on another
weekend
when I was craving
the stark
emotional content.
I took my kids to
the movies
when they made
their appearance
in theatres.
I valued the fact
that each film was
an artistic
expression
by another director.
They were unique,
as the cinematic
interpretation
of a book
often is.
Today,
we went to see
Breaking Dawn Part II
and I was
impressed.
It seems ideal that
the series was
wrapped up by
Mr. Bill Condon.
The film was an
outstanding
representation
of the book.
It gave such closure
and completion
to the tale.
I LOVED IT!
Thank you
Stephanie Meyers
for your wild
and endearing story,
and thank you
to all those involved
in the film-making
phenomenon!
It has been a
truly satisfying
journey.
Sally
Friday, 23 November 2012
Paul Please!
Paul McCartney is coming to town.
Passionately adoring of The Beatles, my daughter is dying to attend.
Patiently waiting on seven computers to buy tickets to the show.
Potential is lost when the show sells out in minutes.
Pleased as pie when she discovers that her Dad may have an in.
Percolating with excitement when Dad gets a job as a dishwasher for the crew.
Planning with precision to sneak her in to meet her hero. What a Dad!
Sally
Paul McCartney is coming to town.
Passionately adoring of The Beatles, my daughter is dying to attend.
Patiently waiting on seven computers to buy tickets to the show.
Potential is lost when the show sells out in minutes.
Pleased as pie when she discovers that her Dad may have an in.
Percolating with excitement when Dad gets a job as a dishwasher for the crew.
Planning with precision to sneak her in to meet her hero. What a Dad!
Sally
Thursday, 22 November 2012
Wednesday, 21 November 2012
Please Professor
Anticipation
Pending
Waiting for the
ball to drop.
Afraid to get
excited,
just in case
my bubble's popped.
Deep breathes.
Pilates
Pulling it
together.
Just hoping
my efforts
don't turn to
stormy weather.
So here's to
fate and Dominos,
from Fall monsoons
to full rainbows.
Here's to what
was meant to be.
A future made for me!
Sally
Anticipation
Pending
Waiting for the
ball to drop.
Afraid to get
excited,
just in case
my bubble's popped.
Deep breathes.
Pilates
Pulling it
together.
Just hoping
my efforts
don't turn to
stormy weather.
So here's to
fate and Dominos,
from Fall monsoons
to full rainbows.
Here's to what
was meant to be.
A future made for me!
Sally
Tuesday, 20 November 2012
Monday, 19 November 2012
Jack Pekarsky Was In My Class
Have you seen the latest
Jack Pekarsky Line?
Amazing!
I know!
So unique.
Magical.
He has such vision.
A natural!
Apparently he's been doing it for a while.
Yup!
Excuse me?
(turning to the newcomer)
I said Yup!
He's been doing it for a while.
Jack Pekarsky was in my class.
He's been developing his sense of
style since he was
in elementary school.
It was obvious then
that he was an
artistic genius
in the making!
Wow! True Canadian pride!
I think he's from
Liverpool actually.
Are you sure?
No.
I'm just going
by his accent.
I see.
Alexander McQueen.
John Galliano and
Jack Pekarsky.
Yup.
What a legacy!
And you knew him?
Still do.
He sends me shoes.
Sally
Have you seen the latest
Jack Pekarsky Line?
Amazing!
I know!
So unique.
Magical.
He has such vision.
A natural!
Apparently he's been doing it for a while.
Yup!
Excuse me?
(turning to the newcomer)
I said Yup!
He's been doing it for a while.
Jack Pekarsky was in my class.
He's been developing his sense of
style since he was
in elementary school.
It was obvious then
that he was an
artistic genius
in the making!
Wow! True Canadian pride!
I think he's from
Liverpool actually.
Are you sure?
No.
I'm just going
by his accent.
I see.
Alexander McQueen.
John Galliano and
Jack Pekarsky.
Yup.
What a legacy!
And you knew him?
Still do.
He sends me shoes.
Sally
Sunday, 18 November 2012
Saturday, 17 November 2012
BEWARE! Civil Servants Letting Down Hair!
I'll never forget,
the AGM of 2006.
Between 7:00am- 9:00pm
Meetings!
A responsibility to
solicit change,
to create order
from chaos.
To uphold the essence
of Democracy.
Between 9:01pm- 6:59am
PARTY!
Phantasy Island
on the 33rd floor.
Cheering
Hollering
and a whole lot of
drinking!
FREE BOOZE
takes 15 minutes
to turn
Donny Osmond
into
Robert Downey Jr.
On the lookout for
another adventure,
we wandered off
in the direction of
The Yale.
Walking
Talking
Giggling
It had suddenly
grown quiet.
When we turned,
we saw FOUR
cop cars,
and Murray,
in handcuffs.
WHAT HAPPENED???
He had a drink in his hand.
WHAT???
He had a drink in his hand.
Inebriated and
entirely oblivious,
Murray had sauntered
out of The Hyatt
carrying a memento
from
Phantasy Island.
A highball,
Giggle Juice,
Baltic tea...
I suppose it is
illegal,
to carry an open drink...
But FOUR cop cars!!!
Poor Murray!
Thankfully Chris,
with the negotiation
skills of a
tourist in Tijuana,
talked to
The Fuzz.
CIVIL SERVANTS
letting off steam.
Can you blame them?
And so he was
forgiven.
Murray's chaffed
wrists and all,
we continued
down the road,
to close down
The Yale
with our
revelrous
merriment!!!
Sally
I'll never forget,
the AGM of 2006.
Between 7:00am- 9:00pm
Meetings!
A responsibility to
solicit change,
to create order
from chaos.
To uphold the essence
of Democracy.
Between 9:01pm- 6:59am
PARTY!
Phantasy Island
on the 33rd floor.
Cheering
Hollering
and a whole lot of
drinking!
FREE BOOZE
takes 15 minutes
to turn
Donny Osmond
into
Robert Downey Jr.
On the lookout for
another adventure,
we wandered off
in the direction of
The Yale.
Walking
Talking
Giggling
It had suddenly
grown quiet.
When we turned,
we saw FOUR
cop cars,
and Murray,
in handcuffs.
WHAT HAPPENED???
He had a drink in his hand.
WHAT???
He had a drink in his hand.
Inebriated and
entirely oblivious,
Murray had sauntered
out of The Hyatt
carrying a memento
from
Phantasy Island.
A highball,
Giggle Juice,
Baltic tea...
I suppose it is
illegal,
to carry an open drink...
But FOUR cop cars!!!
Poor Murray!
Thankfully Chris,
with the negotiation
skills of a
tourist in Tijuana,
talked to
The Fuzz.
CIVIL SERVANTS
letting off steam.
Can you blame them?
And so he was
forgiven.
Murray's chaffed
wrists and all,
we continued
down the road,
to close down
The Yale
with our
revelrous
merriment!!!
Sally
Friday, 16 November 2012
Thursday, 15 November 2012
Wednesday, 14 November 2012
Tuesday, 13 November 2012
MEOW
At 7:00 AM, you are always waiting by my door.
By 7:30 you're making a respectable racket.
Carefully opening the door, I step around you as you race down the stairs.
Diligently waiting as I serve up your food.
Every time I see you, I get a tingly sensation that makes me want to hug you!
Falling in love you was inevitable sweet Izzy!
Sally
At 7:00 AM, you are always waiting by my door.
By 7:30 you're making a respectable racket.
Carefully opening the door, I step around you as you race down the stairs.
Diligently waiting as I serve up your food.
Every time I see you, I get a tingly sensation that makes me want to hug you!
Falling in love you was inevitable sweet Izzy!
Sally
Monday, 12 November 2012
Sunday, 11 November 2012
Ever since Garrett died, Remembrance Day has become such a personal time for me. I will never forget him, his death, or any of the Canadians and their families who gave it all up for our country!
This poem is dedicated to Garrett Chidley (March 22nd 1988-December 30th 2009) and his family, for whom my heart ruptures and aches with your loss. He was a great Canadian, and a great student.
May his memory forever be in our souls!
Remember
For Garrett who sacrificed
his life at 21.
Remember (English)
For my mother
who never met her father.
Lizkor (Hebrew)
For Gita Kron who witnessed
her daughter being taken to Auschwitz.
Gud'nq'n (Yiddish)
For my dad who got used to
seeing his friends die by his side.
Wathkur (Arabic)
For John McCrae who left us
the legacy of his poem.
Cofiwch (Welsh)
For the Danes who refused
to be Hitler's canaries.
Husk (Danish)
For the men and boys who sat in
the trenches yearning for their mothers.
Sonje (Haitian Creole)
For the brave women who
stayed at home, keeping the world afloat.
Kumbuka (Swahili)
For the hundreds of thousands
who died in the irrepressible flames.
Oboete iru (Japanese)
For Anne, who let us
walk with her to death.
Herinneren (Dutch)
For the women and girls
who lost their humanity and dignity.
Yadet miyad (Farsi)
For the fathers and brothers stolen
Zapamtitti (Croatian)
For those who forfeited
the joy of ever walking again.
Merken (German)
For those who lived
to suffer their days in horror.
Rappeler (French)
For the sake of those
This poem is dedicated to Garrett Chidley (March 22nd 1988-December 30th 2009) and his family, for whom my heart ruptures and aches with your loss. He was a great Canadian, and a great student.
May his memory forever be in our souls!
Remember
For Garrett who sacrificed
his life at 21.
Remember (English)
For my mother
who never met her father.
Lizkor (Hebrew)
For Gita Kron who witnessed
her daughter being taken to Auschwitz.
Gud'nq'n (Yiddish)
For my dad who got used to
seeing his friends die by his side.
Wathkur (Arabic)
For John McCrae who left us
the legacy of his poem.
Cofiwch (Welsh)
For the Danes who refused
to be Hitler's canaries.
Husk (Danish)
For the men and boys who sat in
the trenches yearning for their mothers.
Sonje (Haitian Creole)
For the brave women who
stayed at home, keeping the world afloat.
Kumbuka (Swahili)
For the hundreds of thousands
who died in the irrepressible flames.
Oboete iru (Japanese)
For Anne, who let us
walk with her to death.
Herinneren (Dutch)
For the women and girls
who lost their humanity and dignity.
Yadet miyad (Farsi)
For the fathers and brothers stolen
in the non compos mentis cleanse.
Zapamtitti (Croatian)
For those who forfeited
For those who lived
to suffer their days in horror.
Rappeler (French)
For the sake of those
who gave up everything for PEACE.
LEST WE FORGET!
Sally
Saturday, 10 November 2012
Cards Anyone?
While in the kitchen
the other day,
my oldest son asked me
to tell the story of how
his father and I met.
"Well," I said.
"It's quite a funny story
actually."
His father gave me
a concerned look
from the sink.
"It all began when
we took a course
together at the
SFU School for
The Contemporary Arts.
Your dad was the Assistant Director
in a production of Brecht's,
The Measures Taken."
"I was getting in all
sorts of trouble for
incorrectly saying,
'With loud and
resounding voices.'"
"Your dad was asked
to stand in front of me,
with his back to
the director,
and listen to me
practice the line
again and again,
until I got it right."
My son looked from
me to his father.
"And?" he inquired.
"Well, your dad started
to laugh, and I got
in even more trouble!"
His dad chuckled as
he loaded the dishwasher.
"We ended up taking the
bus home together one day.
We were having a great
conversation when,
your dad suddenly
jumped up
and ran off
the bus,
saying that he had
to go."
"I totally checked
my pits,
and sniffed my breath,
completely baffled
by his sudden
disappearance."
"What happened dad?"
"I, uh..." Chris stammered.
"He had to pee." I cut in.
"He told me the next day
on the phone."
I proceeded.
"We started dating.
He kept taking me to this
place called
A Slice of Gourmet.
But he was slow
to make the moves."
"Hey, hey!!! I think you
should stop there."
His dad said adamantly
from inside the
fridge.
"What do you mean?
This is the best part!"
I plowed forth.
"One day,
when your father
dropped me off,
I asked if he wanted
to come over
after work."
"Your dad reminded me
that he worked until
midnight.
So I said..."
"Woa, woa woa,"
Chris interjected.
"You can't tell him this!"
"Why not?" I persisted.
"He's old enough
to handle the truth."
I continued.
"I asked him if
he wanted to come over,
and stay over.
And he did."
"And?" asked Dez
with a glowing smirk
on his face.
"We played cards.
Twice!"
I retorted.
And the three of us
laughed until we
burst!
Sally
While in the kitchen
the other day,
my oldest son asked me
to tell the story of how
his father and I met.
"Well," I said.
"It's quite a funny story
actually."
His father gave me
a concerned look
from the sink.
"It all began when
we took a course
together at the
SFU School for
The Contemporary Arts.
Your dad was the Assistant Director
in a production of Brecht's,
The Measures Taken."
"I was getting in all
sorts of trouble for
incorrectly saying,
'With loud and
resounding voices.'"
"Your dad was asked
to stand in front of me,
with his back to
the director,
and listen to me
practice the line
again and again,
until I got it right."
My son looked from
me to his father.
"And?" he inquired.
"Well, your dad started
to laugh, and I got
in even more trouble!"
His dad chuckled as
he loaded the dishwasher.
"We ended up taking the
bus home together one day.
We were having a great
conversation when,
your dad suddenly
jumped up
and ran off
the bus,
saying that he had
to go."
"I totally checked
my pits,
and sniffed my breath,
completely baffled
by his sudden
disappearance."
"What happened dad?"
"I, uh..." Chris stammered.
"He had to pee." I cut in.
"He told me the next day
on the phone."
I proceeded.
"We started dating.
He kept taking me to this
place called
A Slice of Gourmet.
But he was slow
to make the moves."
"Hey, hey!!! I think you
should stop there."
His dad said adamantly
from inside the
fridge.
"What do you mean?
This is the best part!"
I plowed forth.
"One day,
when your father
dropped me off,
I asked if he wanted
to come over
after work."
"Your dad reminded me
that he worked until
midnight.
So I said..."
"Woa, woa woa,"
Chris interjected.
"You can't tell him this!"
"Why not?" I persisted.
"He's old enough
to handle the truth."
I continued.
"I asked him if
he wanted to come over,
and stay over.
And he did."
"And?" asked Dez
with a glowing smirk
on his face.
"We played cards.
Twice!"
I retorted.
And the three of us
laughed until we
burst!
Sally
Friday, 9 November 2012
Santa Lives on 12th and Fraser
In July
he sits crouching
by the trees that
line the road.
Smoking
Hacking
His beard splayed
across his face.
Off white,
with a yellow haze
reflecting his habit.
Like a misguided
star
he wanders
up and down the road,
waiting for his
moment to shine.
Just after
Halloween
he comes
ALIVE.
He's visible
from blocks
away.
Like a cherry
nestled in a
swirl of soft-serve.
Santa
walking down 12th Avenue.
Red shirt,
red hat,
and the beard
that seems more
white
when framed around
his broad clear
smile
and glowing teeth.
Relishing in his role,
his moment in the spotlight.
Waving at cars
with a deep
"Ho Ho Ho"
Making symphony
with the
Honk
Zip
Vroom
In his glory
until the New Year
when he
retreats back into
his morbid
shell.
Hoping to survive
the next
ten months
with nothing but
a cigarette to
forge his
identity.
Sally
In July
he sits crouching
by the trees that
line the road.
Smoking
Hacking
His beard splayed
across his face.
Off white,
with a yellow haze
reflecting his habit.
Like a misguided
star
he wanders
up and down the road,
waiting for his
moment to shine.
Just after
Halloween
he comes
ALIVE.
He's visible
from blocks
away.
Like a cherry
nestled in a
swirl of soft-serve.
Santa
walking down 12th Avenue.
Red shirt,
red hat,
and the beard
that seems more
white
when framed around
his broad clear
smile
and glowing teeth.
Relishing in his role,
his moment in the spotlight.
Waving at cars
with a deep
"Ho Ho Ho"
Making symphony
with the
Honk
Zip
Vroom
In his glory
until the New Year
when he
retreats back into
his morbid
shell.
Hoping to survive
the next
ten months
with nothing but
a cigarette to
forge his
identity.
Sally
Thursday, 8 November 2012
Wednesday, 7 November 2012
Tuesday, 6 November 2012
Monday, 5 November 2012
Sunday, 4 November 2012
Today is my dear friend Matthew's birthday. Here is an acrostic for him.
Movie Maker
Matthew Oliver, you are a delightful and important friend to me.
Always kind, and reaching out to help.
Talented beyond belief.
Taught me so much over the years.
Having you as an artistic collaborator has changed me in so many ways.
Every interaction is positive, creative and fun.
What a dreadful existence it would be with out you! Happy B-day Friend!
Sally
Movie Maker
Matthew Oliver, you are a delightful and important friend to me.
Always kind, and reaching out to help.
Talented beyond belief.
Taught me so much over the years.
Having you as an artistic collaborator has changed me in so many ways.
Every interaction is positive, creative and fun.
What a dreadful existence it would be with out you! Happy B-day Friend!
Sally
Saturday, 3 November 2012
Friday, 2 November 2012
Hallelujah!
Hallelujah it's Friday, my body can't wait to
Have a nice bath, and go on a date, phew!
Heaven sent weekends are just what I need,
However you look at it, a blessing indeed.
Happy to drive to Capoeira and dance class,
Having a gas as time flies by too fast.
Hopefully ready for another week to pass!
Sally
Hallelujah it's Friday, my body can't wait to
Have a nice bath, and go on a date, phew!
Heaven sent weekends are just what I need,
However you look at it, a blessing indeed.
Happy to drive to Capoeira and dance class,
Having a gas as time flies by too fast.
Hopefully ready for another week to pass!
Sally
Thursday, 1 November 2012
Wednesday, 31 October 2012
Trick?
Thump thump thump
Knock knock
Pause
Knock knock
Ding dong
Sigh
Groan
Thump thump thump
Click
Creak
Pause
"Hey"
"Hey? Don't you say 'Trick or Treat' anymore?"
"Oh. Uh. Yah. Trick or Treat"
"Here"
"Uh. Thanks."
"Happy Halloween!"
"K. Uh. You too."
Thump thump thump
Creak
Kathump
Click
Thump thump thump
Groan
Sigh
Grumble
Grumble
Rustle rustle
Tear
Slurp
Crunch
Munch munch
Sigh
"At least the candy hasn't changed!"
Thump thump thump
Knock knock
Pause
Knock knock
Ding dong
Sigh
Groan
Thump thump thump
Click
Creak
Pause
"Hey"
"Hey? Don't you say 'Trick or Treat' anymore?"
"Oh. Uh. Yah. Trick or Treat"
"Here"
"Uh. Thanks."
"Happy Halloween!"
"K. Uh. You too."
Thump thump thump
Creak
Kathump
Click
Thump thump thump
Groan
Sigh
Grumble
Grumble
Rustle rustle
Tear
Slurp
Crunch
Munch munch
Sigh
"At least the candy hasn't changed!"
Rustle rustle
Tear
Slurp
Crunch
Munch munch
Sigh
Sally
Tuesday, 30 October 2012
Calm Storm
Serene
Contented
Majestically displaying
her meritorious distinction.
Honorable
Admirable
A true vision
of composure.
Calmness
Wisdom
A whisper
of rhythm
in Nature.
CRASH
ECHO
THUNDER
ROAR
Out of nowhere
like a
ruptured furnace,
a tumultuous
vortex of
hellishness,
SHE hits!
The MAELSTROM.
Divine mayhem
edging the calm
to the brink of
bedlam.
The force of
unending vexation,
channelling the energy
of Sandy,
she lays waste
to her nest
seemingly venting
after a hard
day at work.
Sally
Serene
Contented
Majestically displaying
her meritorious distinction.
Honorable
Admirable
A true vision
of composure.
Calmness
Wisdom
A whisper
of rhythm
in Nature.
CRASH
ECHO
THUNDER
ROAR
Out of nowhere
like a
ruptured furnace,
a tumultuous
vortex of
hellishness,
SHE hits!
The MAELSTROM.
Divine mayhem
edging the calm
to the brink of
bedlam.
The force of
unending vexation,
channelling the energy
of Sandy,
she lays waste
to her nest
seemingly venting
after a hard
day at work.
Sally
Monday, 29 October 2012
Thanks Kevin
On gloomy days,
when I feel
boxed in.
On days when the
world seems
overwhelmingly
demanding,
and insatiable...
When effort
flows like
McGillivray Falls
and the tasks
seem as boundless
as the rocks
that line the sea...
I feel drawn to
Kevin Smith.
His scripts make an
English teacher proud.
His characters are
round, lifelike
and hilarious!
And his plots
are as alluring,
and unpredictable as
an old fashioned
roller coaster.
Clerks, Clerks II,
Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back,
Mallrats, Chasing Amy
Dogma...
Hours of reflective,
stomach clenching
entertainment.
What could be better
to kick
S.A.D
in the pants!
Thanks Kevin!
Sally
On gloomy days,
when I feel
boxed in.
On days when the
world seems
overwhelmingly
demanding,
and insatiable...
When effort
flows like
McGillivray Falls
and the tasks
seem as boundless
as the rocks
that line the sea...
I feel drawn to
Kevin Smith.
His scripts make an
English teacher proud.
His characters are
round, lifelike
and hilarious!
And his plots
are as alluring,
and unpredictable as
an old fashioned
roller coaster.
Clerks, Clerks II,
Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back,
Mallrats, Chasing Amy
Dogma...
Hours of reflective,
stomach clenching
entertainment.
What could be better
to kick
S.A.D
in the pants!
Thanks Kevin!
Sally
Sunday, 28 October 2012
Saturday, 27 October 2012
Friday, 26 October 2012
Friday nights are so special.
All of us gather and celebrate The Sabbath together.
Making spectacular meals, and enjoying each other's company.
Inviting extended family and friends to join us.
Laughing our heads off while sharing a multitude of fart stories.
Yearning for the week to fly by, so that we can gather again!
Sally
All of us gather and celebrate The Sabbath together.
Making spectacular meals, and enjoying each other's company.
Inviting extended family and friends to join us.
Laughing our heads off while sharing a multitude of fart stories.
Yearning for the week to fly by, so that we can gather again!
Sally
Thursday, 25 October 2012
Let's Stay Not Friends
I turned to you in need,
and you ignored me.
I asked for more time,
and you said No!
So I exploded.
That was the next
logical step.
BOOM!
And you're
surprised?
After over two years
of devoted,
passionate, effort,
you write me off
in the blink of an eye?
You berate me like
a preschooler
caught with her
hand in her pants.
No Worse!
Caught with her hand in
someone else's pants!
Shaking your head in
disappointment.
Reminding me of the
expectations like I'm the
new kid on the block,
when you know full well
that obligation
pumps through my veins,
my agenda is articulate, and
my responsibilities clear.
You two-faced me.
You tricked me into
letting my guard down.
I thought we were friends?
Lesson learned.
I will not be caught
with my knickers down,
again.
We'll just continue to bow
to the hierarchy facade.
I can play this game too.
"Good Day Mam!"
Sally
I turned to you in need,
and you ignored me.
I asked for more time,
and you said No!
So I exploded.
That was the next
logical step.
BOOM!
And you're
surprised?
After over two years
of devoted,
passionate, effort,
you write me off
in the blink of an eye?
You berate me like
a preschooler
caught with her
hand in her pants.
No Worse!
Caught with her hand in
someone else's pants!
Shaking your head in
disappointment.
Reminding me of the
expectations like I'm the
new kid on the block,
when you know full well
that obligation
pumps through my veins,
my agenda is articulate, and
my responsibilities clear.
You two-faced me.
You tricked me into
letting my guard down.
I thought we were friends?
Lesson learned.
I will not be caught
with my knickers down,
again.
We'll just continue to bow
to the hierarchy facade.
I can play this game too.
"Good Day Mam!"
Sally
Wednesday, 24 October 2012
Tuesday, 23 October 2012
Fallen
One brick drops with a heavy thud,
leaving a permanent imprint on the foundation.
It's inevitable that others follow
crumbling, falling, taking with them
the literary echo...
With every layer of devastation,
disintegrates a tale woven of
historical thread, no longer
able to uphold its end of
the conversation.
Sally
One brick drops with a heavy thud,
leaving a permanent imprint on the foundation.
It's inevitable that others follow
crumbling, falling, taking with them
the literary echo...
With every layer of devastation,
disintegrates a tale woven of
historical thread, no longer
able to uphold its end of
the conversation.
Sally
Monday, 22 October 2012
Old School
Am I nuts?
Don't answer that!
It was meant to be rhetorical.
If I really thought myself
to be crazy,
I wouldn't be flaunting
it in a poem.
The point is...
Today,
I received a donation
of 500 National Geographic
magazines ranging from
1920-2012.
Somehow,
I couldn't say NO!
I had no plan for where to put them
exactly.
I just knew that if I put
them in my classroom,
kids would read them!
So I said YES!
Our security guard
looked at me,
then at the pile of boxes
holding hundreds of magazines
and said,
"Couldn't you just get these
all on a disc?"
I probably could have,
but it's not the same.
I pilled them up
in chronological order
on a bookcase I built
in the hall.
It teetered like
Christopher Lee
trying to withstand an
earthquake.
I don't think that
will prove to be my
biggest problem though!
I think that most of my effort
will be made
trying to get the kids
to STOP reading them
when it's time to
get back to work!
That's a pretty good
problem to have!
Sally
Am I nuts?
Don't answer that!
It was meant to be rhetorical.
If I really thought myself
to be crazy,
I wouldn't be flaunting
it in a poem.
The point is...
Today,
I received a donation
of 500 National Geographic
magazines ranging from
1920-2012.
Somehow,
I couldn't say NO!
I had no plan for where to put them
exactly.
I just knew that if I put
them in my classroom,
kids would read them!
So I said YES!
Our security guard
looked at me,
then at the pile of boxes
holding hundreds of magazines
and said,
"Couldn't you just get these
all on a disc?"
I probably could have,
but it's not the same.
I pilled them up
in chronological order
on a bookcase I built
in the hall.
It teetered like
Christopher Lee
trying to withstand an
earthquake.
I don't think that
will prove to be my
biggest problem though!
I think that most of my effort
will be made
trying to get the kids
to STOP reading them
when it's time to
get back to work!
That's a pretty good
problem to have!
Sally
Sunday, 21 October 2012
Saturday, 20 October 2012
Random Act of Kindness
Spirit of the West was playing in Seattle
She had just turned nineteen.
She was mature, and responsible.
They let Her go because Naomi was older,
and they knew how She felt for the music.
Arriving early, they stopped to get some grub.
Amidst pleasant line-up chatter,
She discovered that the concert venue was a bar.
She was 19, and She needed to be 21.
Naomi was 25, and going regardless.
There was no reason they both had to suffer.
But of course She was devastated.
All that way, just to be left out in the cold.
A woman interjected,
"I'm meeting my daughter here and
you look alike. Amanda will help you out."
Amanda did. "Take my ID. I'm 23.
When you're done, drop it in a mailbox. It'll find me."
After thanking Amanda, She and Naomi went to the concert.
She saw her favourite band. She sang, She danced,
and She felt dynamically, and forever changed by the
RANDOM ACT OF KINDNESS.
Sally
Spirit of the West was playing in Seattle
and She couldn't miss it.
They drove across the border in Naomi's Subaru.
Jittery excitement, singing along to Tripping Up The Stairs.
She was mature, and responsible.
They let Her go because Naomi was older,
and they knew how She felt for the music.
Arriving early, they stopped to get some grub.
Amidst pleasant line-up chatter,
She discovered that the concert venue was a bar.
She was 19, and She needed to be 21.
Naomi was 25, and going regardless.
There was no reason they both had to suffer.
But of course She was devastated.
All that way, just to be left out in the cold.
A woman interjected,
"I'm meeting my daughter here and
you look alike. Amanda will help you out."
Amanda did. "Take my ID. I'm 23.
When you're done, drop it in a mailbox. It'll find me."
After thanking Amanda, She and Naomi went to the concert.
She saw her favourite band. She sang, She danced,
and She felt dynamically, and forever changed by the
RANDOM ACT OF KINDNESS.
Sally
Friday, 19 October 2012
Thursday, 18 October 2012
Wednesday, 17 October 2012
BTW
The apple of
your eye.
The anchor of
your curiosity.
The friend you
look forward to
seeing when you
come home.
The captivator of
your thoughts.
The last image
seen before
you drift off into
blissful slumber.
The hours you
spend in
meditative
devotion.
The theme of
most of your
conversations.
The language you
quote daily.
The topic of
lunch room chatter.
The rhyme to
your reason.
The spring in
your step.
The percussion
in your band.
What you smile about.
What you aspire to
be a part of.
The joy
in your life.
Your downtime
sponge.
Your reason d'etre,
TELEVISION
I think you
might have a
problem.
Sally
The apple of
your eye.
The anchor of
your curiosity.
The friend you
look forward to
seeing when you
come home.
The captivator of
your thoughts.
The last image
seen before
you drift off into
blissful slumber.
The hours you
spend in
meditative
devotion.
The theme of
most of your
conversations.
The language you
quote daily.
The topic of
lunch room chatter.
The rhyme to
your reason.
The spring in
your step.
The percussion
in your band.
What you smile about.
What you aspire to
be a part of.
The joy
in your life.
Your downtime
sponge.
Your reason d'etre,
TELEVISION
I think you
might have a
problem.
Sally
Tuesday, 16 October 2012
Monday, 15 October 2012
Sunday, 14 October 2012
Never Disappointed!
I woke up with an
electrical excitement
reverberating through
my bones.
I got right to my chores.
There were meals to plan,
shopping lists to create,
groceries to buy,
sheets to wash, and
potato leek soup to make.
I diligently dealt with demands.
I planned,
and washed,
and cooked.
I looked up the local
listings.
I confirmed that I had
to be done by 4:30,
to make my brilliant
plan work.
At 4:15, I washed
the last dishes,
and poured the soup
into the Crock Pot.
When I slipped the
last of the laundry
in to dry,
I knew I had
made my time.
We hopped into the car.
We drove to Silvercity.
We sat in the
centre, centre seat.
(Liam has done the Math
and figured out which seats
actually place us dead centre)
With popcorn in hand,
water and Cosmic Brownies
hidden in my backpack,
we saw it.
We saw Tim Burton's
Frankenweenie.
I laughed,
I nearly cried.
We screamed,
and smiled
until it hurt.
It was AMAZING!
The movie,
the anticipatory day...
I'm never disappointed!
Sally
I woke up with an
electrical excitement
reverberating through
my bones.
I got right to my chores.
There were meals to plan,
shopping lists to create,
groceries to buy,
sheets to wash, and
potato leek soup to make.
I diligently dealt with demands.
I planned,
and washed,
and cooked.
I looked up the local
listings.
I confirmed that I had
to be done by 4:30,
to make my brilliant
plan work.
At 4:15, I washed
the last dishes,
and poured the soup
into the Crock Pot.
When I slipped the
last of the laundry
in to dry,
I knew I had
made my time.
We hopped into the car.
We drove to Silvercity.
We sat in the
centre, centre seat.
(Liam has done the Math
and figured out which seats
actually place us dead centre)
With popcorn in hand,
water and Cosmic Brownies
hidden in my backpack,
we saw it.
We saw Tim Burton's
Frankenweenie.
I laughed,
I nearly cried.
We screamed,
and smiled
until it hurt.
It was AMAZING!
The movie,
the anticipatory day...
I'm never disappointed!
Sally
Saturday, 13 October 2012
Friday, 12 October 2012
Thursday, 11 October 2012
Wednesday, 10 October 2012
Tuesday, 9 October 2012
Monday, 8 October 2012
Sunday, 7 October 2012
I just watched Remember Me, and I feel devastated by humanity when recalling 9-11. Sometimes I really wonder if we will ever be capable of resolving our conflicts responsibly. When I think of the epic destruction in human history, I feel so sad and discouraged.
Hate
It festers in our history,
in the vaults of creation.
The seeds of humanity,
are ruin and devastation.
It smolders,
like the cycle of insanity.
Endlessly repeating,
with no sense of humanity.
People, just pieces,
in a ruthless game.
Discarded, like forests,
in place of idolized fame.
Hate breeds more hate.
Finger pointed at the target of late.
Feigning recognition,
a war of attrition,
on the species, the Uprights,
those meant to be leaders.
Succumb to the darkness,
evilness heeders.
It's easy to lose faith,
to have no hope at all.
To think that we're done for,
successes are small.
Unless we believe that
our honest reflection,
comes back from our neighbours,
in every direction.
Until we know this,
in fact to be true,
we'll go on serving
all that is you.
It festers in our history,
Hate
It festers in our history,
in the vaults of creation.
The seeds of humanity,
are ruin and devastation.
It smolders,
like the cycle of insanity.
Endlessly repeating,
with no sense of humanity.
People, just pieces,
in a ruthless game.
Discarded, like forests,
in place of idolized fame.
Hate breeds more hate.
Finger pointed at the target of late.
Feigning recognition,
a war of attrition,
on the species, the Uprights,
those meant to be leaders.
Succumb to the darkness,
evilness heeders.
It's easy to lose faith,
to have no hope at all.
To think that we're done for,
successes are small.
Unless we believe that
our honest reflection,
comes back from our neighbours,
in every direction.
Until we know this,
in fact to be true,
we'll go on serving
all that is you.
It festers in our history,
in the vaults of creation.
The seeds of humanity,
are ruin and devastation.
Sally
Saturday, 6 October 2012
McGillivray Falls
I'd never heard of it until I met Christopher,
childhood memories, father building, logs to bring over...
He spoke of it with a whimsical, glitter in his eyes,
Chris lead me most gallantly on our first trip,
log cabin, old growth forest, and rocks to skip...
When I saw it I was overcome with surprise,
Now we go up as often as we can,
To appreciate life's treasures at McGillivray Falls Retreat,
just be prepared to relax, and put up your feet!
Sally
I'd never heard of it until I met Christopher,
childhood memories, father building, logs to bring over...
He spoke of it with a whimsical, glitter in his eyes,
campfires, hiking, fishing and pies...
log cabin, old growth forest, and rocks to skip...
When I saw it I was overcome with surprise,
waterfall, nature lurking, animal cries...
I knew it was the right place for us to get married,
noon train arrival, pagodas and cherries...
We rowed into the lake with our 'Just Married' sign,
double rainbow, wasp traps, and songs in 4/4 time...
Each of our children were brought into the folds,
playpens, and bottles and Snugglies to tote...
We raised them craving and loving the place,
Grandma and Grandpa and bright stars in space...
Board games, cards and Bluegrass Bands...
We're up and out by 7:00, driving on the road,
Gravol, audio books, big truck carrying our load...
Arriving at noon at Anderson Lake.
Pemberton, Mount Currie and D'Arcy to wait...
For Grandpa to arrive in his boat with life jackets,
wet dogs on the dock, kids making a racket...
The adventure continues with a ride on the water,
splashes, gas runs, Safety Patrol Officer...
Then you can see it, Second Beach, and you wave,
Barkleys, Evans, Catchpoles and Dave...
When you glimpse The Falls, majestic distractor,
Rubbermaid containers, row boats, and tractors...
You know you've arrived in the 'Heavenly Country'
appetizers, volleyball and The Bridge Tourney...
just be prepared to relax, and put up your feet!
Sally
Friday, 5 October 2012
Enough Already!
Silence PLEASE!
How can anyone possibly learn or listen with all this noise!
Have the insight to know when to stop.
Honor the fact that 'Give & Take' is the essence of the equation.
Honestly coming to terms with the notion that
Harmony comes from balance.
Heed the lesson and Shhhhhhhhh please!
Sally
Silence PLEASE!
How can anyone possibly learn or listen with all this noise!
Have the insight to know when to stop.
Honor the fact that 'Give & Take' is the essence of the equation.
Honestly coming to terms with the notion that
Harmony comes from balance.
Heed the lesson and Shhhhhhhhh please!
Sally
Thursday, 4 October 2012
Wednesday, 3 October 2012
Unwelcome Company
How dare you
arrive unannounced,
getting all up
in my face
and invading my house.
How dare you
bring tears to my eyes,
keep me up
all night
with fretting, fitful cries.
Who the hell do you think you are,
Who the hell do you think you are,
making me feel so old.
You are entirely
unwelcome,
you nasty Common Cold!
Sally
How dare you
arrive unannounced,
getting all up
in my face
and invading my house.
How dare you
bring tears to my eyes,
keep me up
all night
with fretting, fitful cries.
Who the hell do you think you are,
pulling my kids into this too,
making everyone
feel lightheaded,
not knowing what to do!
Who the hell do you think you are,
making me feel so old.
You are entirely
unwelcome,
you nasty Common Cold!
Sally
Tuesday, 2 October 2012
Spirit of the West
I asked a question
in class the other day,
"Who has influenced you
in becoming who you are?"
In response to the
puzzled faces before me,
I gave them my own
examples to start.
My parents, my brother,
my sweet aunts and uncles,
and Spirit of the West, I said.
The band, their lyrics,
and their social politics,
put my entire existence
to the test.
They opened my eyes
to the world
I was craving.
To people, and
the need to be free.
To the power of speech,
and the magic of music.
Their infectious, ardor
invaded me.
As I spoke these words,
I swiftly recognized
what a great impact
they had.
So Thank You
John Mann and Geoff Kelly,
and other great members
of your band.
My students caught on
and understood the strength,
of influence in our lives.
They spoke of Lady Gaga,
and the great J.K Rowling,
who are bringing up
kids in these times.
May our role models
be blessed,
and their brilliance continue
to spark and ignite our youth.
As there is no
greater power
than music and voices,
to lead young generations
to truth.
Sally
I asked a question
in class the other day,
"Who has influenced you
in becoming who you are?"
In response to the
puzzled faces before me,
I gave them my own
examples to start.
My parents, my brother,
my sweet aunts and uncles,
and Spirit of the West, I said.
The band, their lyrics,
and their social politics,
put my entire existence
to the test.
They opened my eyes
to the world
I was craving.
To people, and
the need to be free.
To the power of speech,
and the magic of music.
Their infectious, ardor
invaded me.
As I spoke these words,
I swiftly recognized
what a great impact
they had.
So Thank You
John Mann and Geoff Kelly,
and other great members
of your band.
My students caught on
and understood the strength,
of influence in our lives.
They spoke of Lady Gaga,
and the great J.K Rowling,
who are bringing up
kids in these times.
May our role models
be blessed,
and their brilliance continue
to spark and ignite our youth.
As there is no
greater power
than music and voices,
to lead young generations
to truth.
Sally
Monday, 1 October 2012
Sunday, 30 September 2012
My Birthday
I slept in
and woke up
with Izzy by my side.
I was greeted
by a beautiful
'Birthday Table'
that included soaps,
bubble bath,
a bouquet of
stunning roses,
and Rockets
the size of Toonies.
I lazed around,
had a bath,
watched movies,
and drank coffee.
When the sun went down
we walked to our local
Greek restaurant
and had a feast that
tantalized our palates.
We walked home in the
dark
with our
glow necklaces
guiding our way.
Just when I thought
I had the best day
ever,
my cousin had her
baby.
A new addition to the
September 30th legacy.
Happy Birthday to me!
Sally
I slept in
and woke up
with Izzy by my side.
I was greeted
by a beautiful
'Birthday Table'
that included soaps,
bubble bath,
a bouquet of
stunning roses,
and Rockets
the size of Toonies.
I lazed around,
had a bath,
watched movies,
and drank coffee.
When the sun went down
we walked to our local
Greek restaurant
and had a feast that
tantalized our palates.
We walked home in the
dark
with our
glow necklaces
guiding our way.
Just when I thought
I had the best day
ever,
my cousin had her
baby.
A new addition to the
September 30th legacy.
Happy Birthday to me!
Sally
Saturday, 29 September 2012
Friday, 28 September 2012
You Put the ADD in Daddy
I step into the kitchen,
every cupboard door is open.
There's a flip flop on the counter
and a lunch kit is smokin'.
You're holding half a hot dog
with a coffee and some cheese.
You begin washing the dishes,
then the ceiling start to clean.
You've started on the laundry,
you have clearly washed the whites.
While they sit, all wet, neglected,
you go off to fix some bikes.
Then you come down, warm and steamy,
having taken a nice bath,
and you dig a hole, then stop,
leaving the shovel in the path.
It's so great to have a partner
who I never have to ask,
though it would be very useful
for you to complete a task.
Sally
I step into the kitchen,
every cupboard door is open.
There's a flip flop on the counter
and a lunch kit is smokin'.
You're holding half a hot dog
with a coffee and some cheese.
You begin washing the dishes,
then the ceiling start to clean.
You've started on the laundry,
you have clearly washed the whites.
While they sit, all wet, neglected,
you go off to fix some bikes.
Then you come down, warm and steamy,
having taken a nice bath,
and you dig a hole, then stop,
leaving the shovel in the path.
It's so great to have a partner
who I never have to ask,
though it would be very useful
for you to complete a task.
Sally
Thursday, 27 September 2012
Parents
Punctually arriving at 'Meet the Creature' night.
Painfully obvious which apple has fallen from which tree.
Prepared with questions to keep you on your toes.
Precise with their expectations.
Poignant with their criticism.
Preposterously demanding the impossible.
Positively relieved to survive the experience once again!!!
Sally
Punctually arriving at 'Meet the Creature' night.
Painfully obvious which apple has fallen from which tree.
Prepared with questions to keep you on your toes.
Precise with their expectations.
Poignant with their criticism.
Preposterously demanding the impossible.
Positively relieved to survive the experience once again!!!
Sally
Wednesday, 26 September 2012
Tuesday, 25 September 2012
Monday, 24 September 2012
Sunday, 23 September 2012
Big Father
So you're off like
the bride's pajamas eh!?!?!
I know you love
Big Brother.
I also know that it is a
ritual
that you and your children
have maintained for years.
I get it!
That doesn't mean that I won't
make fun of you.
Watching adults bicker
and back-stab.
Trapped in a house
playing games
under a
microscope.
It just doesn't
strike me
as entertainment.
I guess that is one
of our
many differences.
You make fun of me
when I watch
True Blood.
(I told you I just
like the
vampire sex...)
and I make fun
of your
Reality TV
addiction.
We CAN
agree to disagree.
HOWEVER...
Must you really
stand in line
all night to
audition for
Big Brother Canada?
That seems a little
extreme.
Being away from your
family for months!
Expecting me to play
single parent
while you're off
putting your life
in the spotlight.
SIGH
It's a good thing that
I love you.
It's a good thing that I
vowed
years ago
to support you,
and encourage you
to follow your
dreams.
I just wish
that your mid-life crisis
consisted
of buying a
sports car...
That's significantly
more private!
I do
wish you the best,
though.
Let's hope
they're looking for
an adorable,
forty-something
teacher.
You know we'll watch!
You know we'll cheer you on!
Just remember
you'll owe me.
Make sure you bring
a set of fangs
to our next
romantic encounter.
That should even things out...
Sally
So you're off like
the bride's pajamas eh!?!?!
I know you love
Big Brother.
I also know that it is a
ritual
that you and your children
have maintained for years.
I get it!
That doesn't mean that I won't
make fun of you.
Watching adults bicker
and back-stab.
Trapped in a house
playing games
under a
microscope.
It just doesn't
strike me
as entertainment.
I guess that is one
of our
many differences.
You make fun of me
when I watch
True Blood.
(I told you I just
like the
vampire sex...)
and I make fun
of your
Reality TV
addiction.
We CAN
agree to disagree.
HOWEVER...
Must you really
stand in line
all night to
audition for
Big Brother Canada?
That seems a little
extreme.
Being away from your
family for months!
Expecting me to play
single parent
while you're off
putting your life
in the spotlight.
SIGH
It's a good thing that
I love you.
It's a good thing that I
vowed
years ago
to support you,
and encourage you
to follow your
dreams.
I just wish
that your mid-life crisis
consisted
of buying a
sports car...
That's significantly
more private!
I do
wish you the best,
though.
Let's hope
they're looking for
an adorable,
forty-something
teacher.
You know we'll watch!
You know we'll cheer you on!
Just remember
you'll owe me.
Make sure you bring
a set of fangs
to our next
romantic encounter.
That should even things out...
Sally
Saturday, 22 September 2012
Friday, 21 September 2012
Thursday, 20 September 2012
Wednesday, 19 September 2012
Tuesday, 18 September 2012
Monday, 17 September 2012
Sunday, 16 September 2012
Happy 5773
Happy Jewish New Year!
May sweetness come your way.
Happy Jewish New Year!
With blessings on this day.
May all your close one's
health be strong,
and moments of joy
and pleasure be long.
Happy Jewish New Year!
For ALL of you I pray,
for much success and happiness,
on this New Year's day.
Sally
Happy Jewish New Year!
May sweetness come your way.
Happy Jewish New Year!
With blessings on this day.
May all your close one's
health be strong,
and moments of joy
and pleasure be long.
Happy Jewish New Year!
For ALL of you I pray,
for much success and happiness,
on this New Year's day.
Sally
Saturday, 15 September 2012
Friday, 14 September 2012
Thursday, 13 September 2012
Wednesday, 12 September 2012
Where I am From
I am from Yaakov and Yael,
from toothpicks and falafel.
I am from, “No choosing!”
and “Go put your pajama!”
I am from
Sabbath candles, and
the waft of home-made challah bread.
I am from skeletons and instruments,
from coffee makers and movies.
I am from kitty cats, Family Portraits,
and fragrant herbs winding up the porch.
I am from Oak Street,
and Canada,
whose vibrant images flash
in my photo album.
I’m from SFU, theatre school
and rolling around on
Swedish hardwood floors.
I am from “Waiting for Godot”,
a hairy leg metamorphosis for “The Lover”,
and Christos receiving my
“Loud and resounding voices.”
I am made up of Desmond, Aeden and Liam,
and the infamous Mommy Brigade…
I reek of Harry Potter audio books and
hot chocolate at midnight.
I am from cuddles by the fire,
Thanksgiving, and
Family Game Night.
I am the evolution of a nation
and the mixed up
puzzle pieces of a
Broadway musical.
I am where I am from,
and where I am from
consumes me.
Sally
Tuesday, 11 September 2012
Gotta Love It
Today we spoke of conflict,
in our English class.
How every story needs it,
to avoid sounding like trash.
We talked about Internal
and External conflict too.
How one takes place inside,
and the other out of you.
I asked for examples
from my sweet and eager class.
This is what I heard,
and it really made me laugh.
"Internal is when you feel bad
or have troubles in your head.
It's when you can't decide,
or are filled with aching dread."
"External is when you're sitting
in a barn with *crapple pie,
and your horse sneaks in and eats it,
licking your plate dry."
OK
It is definitely true,
that example is External,
but between the barn and pie,
it really is unusual.
It is great to work with children,
and the wild things they say.
To surprise and entertain you
on any given day.
Sally
*Cranberry/Apple
Today we spoke of conflict,
in our English class.
How every story needs it,
to avoid sounding like trash.
We talked about Internal
and External conflict too.
How one takes place inside,
and the other out of you.
I asked for examples
from my sweet and eager class.
This is what I heard,
and it really made me laugh.
"Internal is when you feel bad
or have troubles in your head.
It's when you can't decide,
or are filled with aching dread."
"External is when you're sitting
in a barn with *crapple pie,
and your horse sneaks in and eats it,
licking your plate dry."
OK
It is definitely true,
that example is External,
but between the barn and pie,
it really is unusual.
It is great to work with children,
and the wild things they say.
To surprise and entertain you
on any given day.
Sally
*Cranberry/Apple
Monday, 10 September 2012
Sunday, 9 September 2012
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