Category Archives: Family

Mother Knows Not

Posted on July 10, 2023 by sputterpub

So many things my mother said were wrong.I had suspicions early, but I triedobedience at first. It wasn’t longbefore I grew to be dissatisfied.I ran my own experiments – a throngof variance successfully applied.Each step led to another, till my … Continue reading →

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The Shiner

Posted on June 28, 2023 by sputterpub

I picked her up to comfort her. That’s howI earned my latest injury this year.Her toddler head collided with my brow,and overnight a shiner did appear.It’s like I’m wearing purple shadow now –my outer upper eyelid has a smearof bruise … Continue reading →

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Optatives

Posted on June 23, 2023 by sputterpub

Oh let me learn from her how not to act,and even as my finger joints get gnarly,let me cultivate the skill of tact,and never let my visage be so snarly.As far back as my memory extendsher choices have repulsed me, … Continue reading →

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Kinder Grad

Posted on June 15, 2023 by sputterpub

Matriculation is a minor ritewhen marking elevation to first grade.Free choice, a film, and donuts were delight,according to reports. The students played,the teacher sat – all suitably “last-dayed.”And though his folks expected he would grieveat change, it wasn’t sadness he … Continue reading →

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Harsh

Posted on June 1, 2023 by sputterpub

He says his ego died but that’s a lie.He claims he’s not depressed – we don’t see howthat statement can be other than a try.He’s prompt to self-aggrandize even now,and though the damage showed him how to cry,his posture doesn’t … Continue reading →

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Shotless (On Powell Butte)

Posted on May 28, 2023 by sputterpub

Of course when I leave home I break routine,and staying with my kids I go alongwith their agenda, witnessing their scene –a loving fly upon the kitchen wall.I try to fill my eyes and heart – I meanto carry home … Continue reading →

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Audubon/Autobahn

Posted on May 27, 2023 by sputterpub

Confusing the birdwatching patriarch namewith Germany’s roadway for speed,and hearing “gold standard” but in the wrong frame(“iconic” I thought would succeed),I started to smile and nodded my head.I love them but speak differently.Away from my garden, my bath and my … Continue reading →

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Sabbatical

Posted on May 26, 2023 by sputterpub

They set their phones down once a week of late –from Friday night through Saturday foregothe tiny screen, the tinny tune – relateto three or more dimensions, like a throw-back (ages range from 12 to 48).I’m visiting, and now they … Continue reading →

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Stern

Posted on May 25, 2023 by sputterpub

Don’t stern-talk me, his sister said.That didn’t work from Dad.Attempts to shush me bend my headand only make me mad.You might try listening instead(I really wish you had).That pose supposed to ferry dreadlooks insecure and sad.

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Leaning In

Posted on May 23, 2023 by sputterpub

We sat upon the couch and talked a bit.He wasn’t feeling well in back or head.Fatigue besieged (as is appropriate,with two young kids to wrest him from his bed).Attending to the way he sat and said,respecting his full plate and … Continue reading →

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