ANTICIPATION

an empty back pack
knots in my stomach
the first day of school

tears of joy
tears of pain

a butterfly from a cocoon
no longer a baby . . .
my son

an unwanted
transformation

a skinned knee—
from the excitement
he trips

the first day of school
he needs his mom

           by Destany Lucas and Megan Smith

First Date

summer night
in the dark
the sound of music

stars are dazzling
fireflies shining

first date
slowly we walk
hands trembling

saturday evening
barefoot

sapphire ocean
we intensely gaze
into each other’s eyes

together
just like I dreamed

          Danae Fultz

Graduation Approaches

anticipating change
steps made
toward a new life

fear of the unknown
excitement fills the air

mounting stress
end is near
graduation approaches

endless nights
growing tired
final projects due

inspiring ideas
I’m on my way

friendships made
New York City travels
am I ready . . .

by Tamara Foster & Katrina Farris

The House

new house
still remodeling
constant work

time passes by
more projects unfold

paint and stain
drywall dust
are we done yet?

unexpected expenses
budget busts
couple working together

home “sweet” home
not my 9-5 job

filled with love
shared by family
work in progress

          Tamara Foster & husband

The Pet

winter paws
outside
my window

snow blows
darkness falls

fierce cold
the cat returns
shaking wet fur

door opens
heat warms the heart

in the kitchen
feeding time
5 o’ clock

fire’s crackle
muffle purrs

          by Deb & Josh Parmenter

THE DREAMER

Tennessee Mountains...
more visible
than my dreams

the sun is shining
I take in the warmth

beneath the orange horizon
my memories
of him fade

picking the wildflower
along the sapphire stream

smiling..
I realize that
life is hopeful

suddenly I realize.....
I am not alone

by Danae Fultz and Destany Lucas