By Dennis Patton

WARM HEARTED WINTERS

Of all the things that winter brings

I like to sit and think about the little joys of life.

So very long ago, my colder years were full of fun.

Sledding, ice skating, snow ball fights, real pine trees at Christmas, mother’s kitchen skills, warm cozy fires, happy walks with friends, school, lovely cashmere tops, wool skirts, and high heels.

Today, in retirement,

I settle for a fake Christmas tree, with years of decorations, an empty nest, carefully walking on ice with flat shoes, being my own cook, a few friends that care, grand children’s school programs, a fake fire place, a loving husband, able to volunteer, and hobbies.

Most of all,

I enjoy my memories as I look at old photos and reminisce about old happy scenes.

In the winter of my time,

I am thankful for each and every day.

— Cathy Parker

Alexander

SENRYU

outside the choir room in mid February songs of spring peepers — Pat Laster

Benton

FEBRUARY IN THE SOUTH

The rhythms are stilled

By the monstrous winter storm That covers the land

With a foot of white.

Pine limbs pose rigid

In the stillness.

I wait for thaw’s first breeze To set them into motion

And expose the green again.

I yearn for waiting rhythms To pin words on

To make songs

That will lure the bluebirds Out of hiding.

I yearn for something

That resembles February In the South.

—Harding Stedler Deceased

DRINKING FROM MY SAUCER

by John Paul Moore

I’ve never made a fortune and it’s probably too late now.

But I don’t worry about that much, I’m happy anyhow.

And as I go along life’s way, I’m reaping better than I sowed.

I’m drinking from my saucer, ‘cause my cup overflowed.

I don’t have a lot of riches, and sometimes the going’s tough.

But I’ve got loved ones around me, and that makes me rich enough.

I thank God for his blessings, and the mercies He’s bestowed.

I’m drinking from my saucer, ‘cause my cup has overflowed.

I remember times when things went wrong, my faith wore somewhat thin.

But all at once the dark clouds broke, and the sun peeped through again.

So God, help me not to gripe about the tough rows that I’ve hoed.

I’m drinking from my saucer, ‘cause my cup has overflowed.

If God gives me strength and courage, when the way grows steep and rough.

I’ll not ask for other blessings, I’m already blessed enough.

And may I never be too busy to help others bear their loads.

Then I’ll keep drinking from my saucer, ‘cause my cup has overflowed.

Contributed in memory of my dad – Emil – who drank his coffee similar — Leo F. Knoernschild Lutherville, AR

To submit poems for publication, please send poems of 16 or fewer lines to Dennis Patton, 2512 Springhill Circle, Alexander, AR 72002, or patton_dr@hotmail.com. The Saline County Branch of PRA is scheduled to meet February 25, 1:00 pm, at the Parkview United Methodist Church, 514 North Border Street, Benton.