​Sundays for Jesus

Sundays for Jesus and time to get up
The sun is shining at seven o’clock.
It peeks through the shades and shines in Gam’s eyes
With a yawn and a stretch thank God I’m alive.

The first voice Gam hears is the littlest child
He’s in pajamas and running wild.
The two oldest Grands sleep until eight
Church starts at nine don’t want to be late.

Sis sings today all the MAX kids do
They’re leading worship in song to the tune
“Way Maker” by gospel singer Sinach
About God creating paths for each of us.

Sis wears a peach dress with rose-colored shoes
Bubba wears khakis cause that’s what boys do
Baby brother gets hot so it’s cotton shorts
Two-year-olds run in circles like a sport.

The Grands know the drill that each morning brings
For five days a week, the school bell rings.
Grab a quick bite, comb your hair, brush your teeth
Time to make beds, fluff pillows, and fold down sheets.

Sis flies up the stairs she’s the first one ready
Her aura’s so colorful it abounds like confetti.
She watches Gam as she puts on her face
Rouge, mascara, and lipstick in a case.

Next up the stairs is Bubba, he’s five
He’ll tell you straight up he’s not singing for a while.
Too many people looking out from the crowd
He says when he’s six he’ll try singing out loud.

Everyone is ready time to hop in the car
The ride takes five minutes it’s not very far.
Park on the side next to the children’s wing
Skip down the sidewalk and get ready to sing

Baby brother goes to the nursery to play
He whimpers a bit but will go with Miss Kay
Mom walks down the hallway and slowly turns around
Baby brother says ‘momma’ in his sweet little sound.

Gamma leads the way to the front of the church
It's near the pulpit so Sis needn’t search
For the family in a congregation that’s big and tall
It’s important to be seen for one so small.

Gam and Sis do a thing before the singing begins.
Sis spots Gamma quickly and out comes the grin.
Gam smiles big time and waves to her Grand.
Sis smiles and giggles and waves with her hand.

After the singing Sis comes to sit down
Listening carefully to the new preacher in town.
Dr. Thomas cracks jokes, Sis lets out a chuckle
She goes back to the word search and works on a puzzle.

The Grands are in preschool and kindergarten
There was wiggling, jiggling, some pushing and shoving
All in all, they did well sitting in worship service
Gam’s proud of the effort while reading Bible verses

There was something that Sis didn’t quite understand
The Baptismal pool up above the rock band.
The preacher explained sin, salvation, and a snake
But Sis was more curious about the water being fake.

After church, the family picked up Baby Brother
He was excited and thrilled to see Mother.
They all wanted seafood at Red Lobster for lunch
The cheesy, buttery biscuits were calling to the bunch.

Arrive at the restaurant and check out the lobster
Pressed up against the glass looking like creepy monsters.
Their tiny beady eyes and antennas for touching
And gigantic claws meant for predator-crushing.

Sit down at a table for five not a booth
Kids meals and dessert for a sweet tooth.
Crayons and paper to occupy their time
Mom did a word search and Gam wrote a rhyme.

After excellent service all were full
Load up the car, and buckle up, it’s vital.
Arrive at home, fast break, change clothes
Grab shoes, or sandals to protect the toes.

The biggest discovery on Sunday afternoon
Was Sister’s confession Jesus rose from the tomb
On the third day after dying on the cross for our sins
She’s ready for baptism, praise the Lord, Amen.

Gamma says, “Just a second; this won’t take long.
Keep playing the game or try singing a song.”
So the two wait in silence like good children do.
Until Gamma stops talking to who knows who.

Though the watching’s relentless and much in demand
Gamma keeps watching her sweet little lambs.
Do they tire? No sir. They’ll go ‘til they drop
Is it a second wind? Yes, maybe. Hippity-hop.

To keep sleep at bay, the music comes on.
The louder the better to halt all the yawns.
The tunes keep the beat, whether country or pop,
The tempo that’s the bounciest is probably rock.

As the clock ticks away, it’s abundantly clear
That bedtime’s approaching and drawing near.
“One more time,” they say with a look and a “please.”
Gamma keeps watching, then laughs, and agrees.

The finale’s a big one; ideas float about
It’s off to the corner to map out the route.
An obstacle course with pillows and chairs,
blankets, couch cushions, and a four-foot stuffed bear.

Off they go. It’s a race to see who will win.
When one of them loses, they’ll both try again. 
It’s late; they confess and are ready for bed.
Brushing teeth and pajamas doesn’t sound too bad.

Now to the bedroom for more kisses and hugs.
Tucking sheets tightly so they’re nice and snug. 
Off go the lights, say a prayer, and drift to sleep.
It’s been a good day, and the watching’s complete.

Gamma kicks off her shoes and breathes in the air.
Looks at the toys scattered here and there.
Reminisces and ponders all the hugs and wet kisses
doled out by two children with hopes, dreams, and wishes.

​

Magical rainbows
are an amazing sight 
Sis brings to life on her pages.
Bubba paints a picture
of the deep blue sea
with lobsters escaping their cages.


Each Grand has a set
of watercolors 
so no one has to reach. 
Over one another
to dab a color 
to share a vibrant peach.



After painting the sun
in a warm orange hue 
Sis rinses her brush out with water.
She swirls and twirls
and rolls it about 
using a paper towel as a blotter.  



Once the artwork is complete 
and ready for review.
What’s the next thing that the Grands do?
They tear out their sheets
from the sketchbook pads
to find Gamma, ‘Skippity-Doo’,



The children find their way
to Gamma in the kitchen
an appraisal of their work is required.
The glasses come on.
The throat is cleared.
Time to share some Gamma wisdom.



Art is an extension
of our thoughts and feelings
from the depths of our insides.
As demonstrated by our
drawings, paintings, and sculptures
it’s a sketchbook of our minds. 



After putting away
the paint supplies 
it’s time to explore another… 
form of art
that’s mindful and clever
the Grands gently nudge each other. ​

“When I grow up, I’m gonna be just a dad and a farmer.” Gamma’s Grandson

Bubba’s Low-Key. Smart. Handsome. Happy. Love’s his Momma. A Good Boy. For the longest time (he’s four), Bubba just wanted to be a dad. Not a ninja. Not Spider-Man. Not a policeman. Not a fireman. Just a dad. This ‘just a dad’ idea interested Gamma. She thought about it for a bit and then a bit more. After careful consideration, Gamma concluded…

Bubba’s a thinker, a tinkerer, a real class clown. He’s also part of a “dad village”. Bubba sees the comings and goings of several dad role models. His Dad is funny and makes him laugh. Always a jokester. His best friend’s Dad is an adventurer. Go carts. Four wheelers. Fast rides. His Papa fixes things with his tools. Appliances. Bikes. Stuff around the house. It’s no wonder he wants to be ‘just a dad.’ Until he took a trip to Garrett Farms.



Cooler weather’s on its way,
Crazy talk spoken today.
Higher temps feel like the 80s
Beach balls, bare feet, ukuleles.


It’s a beautiful day to be outside.
No rain. Few clouds. It might be wise.
To scroll the net to find events.
Family activities for ladies and gents.



‘Ding, Ding, Ding’ Garrett Farms wins.
Animals, hayrides, fun with friends.
Let’s climb aboard Gamma’s bright red truck.
Baby in the middle, buckle seats, giddy-up!

Once they arrive go through the market
The Grands blast off like a human rocket.
“Slow down,” Gamma said with a look so serious.
“No rush, stay close, don’t be too curious.”



Open the doors to a colorful sight
Red, yellow, purple, green, orange and white
An array of veggies but what’s white?
Vanilla ice cream. Alright. Alright. Alright.



Gamma’s excited to see field peas.
Purple hull, crowder, lady cream, what a treat.
The sweet little lady, so delicate and mild
Everybody loves them, even a hard–to–please child.
​


Pay the admission for children and adults.
In a few minutes, we’ll be having a ball.
Through the doors, get a stamp on the hand.
“It’s a perfect Star,” said Gam’s li’l man.

​

What’s green, blue, yellow, and red (read) all over?
A newspaper? Gam looks over her shoulder.
It’s a tall balloon full of compressed air.
Climb the ladder, slide down, and add some flair.

​Gam knows bouncy houses never get old
The Grands jump, bump, spin, turn and roll. 
One more tumble down the slide, here we go. 
On to the next big event ‘Cheerio!’


Food-filled cups for the animals to nibble
Corn, oats, and hay make an animal kibble.
The first goat seen appears to be stuck
Between the checkered fence standing in the muck.



Sis gets closer and tries to help
The black billy goat who’s starting to yelp.
After a minute, he pulls out his head
Waiting patiently, ready to be fed.

​More goats come to eat except a few
Some are as full as a tick on a mule.
The hogs are sleeping and snoring on their back.
Tiptoe around and give the dog a Scooby snack.



Piglets snort and run around.
They’re so silly when they leap off the ground.
One wants a pet and a roll in the mud
Next to the pigs, a cow chews his cud.



After the animals' bellies are full
On to the next tent to see what’s cool.
The Grands get excited as they peek in
It’s a fall harvest corn sensory bin.

​One tosses the ball while the other gets buried
Make a corn angel everybody seems so merry.
Baby Brother gets impatient ‘cause he wants in
Takes off his shoes, stands up, and climbs the bin.


All of the Grands are laughing and smiling
Could this be heaven? Gam’s face is shining.
Heaven is joyful. That’s what they say
Perpetual happiness much like today.



The Grands are thirsty. So is Gam.
Head to the market and try to slam
Cool drinks down the hatch to quench thirst
Not too much, don’t want to burst!



Ice cream time, Sis wants vanilla.
Bubba wants a swirl. Baby Brother a banana.
Pick up the snacks, and grab an apple on the way. 
It’s so hot, take a seat, and avoid the fray.

​Pumpkin-picking time is quite a thrill.
They’ve done this before. They know the drill.
Choose your color, shape, and size.
Place it in the cart and collect your prize.



Pay for the pumpkins, load the truck
Squeeze them in and with some luck
Plenty of room for produce too
Peppers, peas, canned tomatoes for stew.



Grands want to jump in the corn again.
It tickles toes when it touches the skin.
Too much fun it’s hard to stop
Look, there’s cornhole, and off they hop.

​After a few more games time to go
Take the tractor, tour the farm, and grab a hoe.
Candied apples, flavored honey in sticks
Bite off the plastic, squeeze firmly, and have a lick.


Don’t forget the maze made out of straw
One could get lost if not very tall.
Play hide and seek, run into dead ends
A few steps backward and try again.

​​Gam asked the question, “What was the best  part?”
“Corn bins,” shouted the Grands, soon to depart. 
Fall Farm Days are a peaceful way to begin
The holiday season Giddy-up, Yeehaw, Amen.

​They’ll be Swinging, Swaying, 
Records Playing, Dancing in the Streets
They’re dancing in Paducah (Dancing in the Streets)
Along the riverfront (Dancing in the Streets)
Slow Smoking the favorites (Dancing in the Streets)
A BBQ treasure hunt (Dancing in the Streets)


All we need is music, sweet music
And loads of ribs on shiny food trucks
Cold drinks and key-lime cheesecake, Mmm
Fried Twinkies for only eight bucks.



BBQ on the River (Dancing in the Streets)
It happens annually (Dancing in the Streets)
Proceeds go to good causes (Dancing in the Streets)
Locally-loved charities (Dancing in the Streets)

Dancing In the Streets

BBQ on the River is a once-a-year affair
The Grands have a blast, as does everyone there.
Gamma spoils them rotten by buying frivolous things
Including fuzzy hats and Tachi swords ‘Ba-da-Bing.’


As summer departs and fall arrives
It’s kind of ‘cool’ and all that jive.
Downtown is hopping each September
Folks start talking about BBQ on the River.



The first of three days has the lightest crowds
Food lines are shorter, noise levels less loud.
Sis strains to hear as decibels rise
Still, she’s a trouper and rolls with the tide.


Gam parallel parks the car on Broadway
In front of Stella’s, not too far away.
In two short blocks, there’s plenty of action
A sea of white tents is a welcomed attraction.



The crew strolls along when they come across
a six-foot yellow chicken in all the chaos
He’s dancing a jig while shaking tail feathers
Grands are in stitches, slapping knees together.

Gam scours tents to find face-painting
A tradition the Grands have long been creating.
So many designs from which to choose
Princess, Mardi Gras, or a brown moose.


Sis is decisive and picks a tiger
Pink, teal, and white, it could be a fighter!
Bubba shakes his head, ‘no paint for me’
He plops on the ground with a skinned knee.

Climb the stool so the artist may create
Sis’ sweet face is the perfect slate.
Sis doesn’t move, blinks only twice
The artist dots white paint around the eyes.


A sweep of pink paint across the forehead.
The perfect shade, no purple or red.
Cheeks colored teal with a bit of glitter
Black lines add depth to make the critter.



Using black and teal, the artist does compose
A tiger’s snout on Sis’ little nose.
Glitter sprinkled lightly, the perfect touch
Picture with Bubba in a tight clutch.

​Through the flood gates close the river
Musicians play and sound superior.
Guitars and drums, a singer too
Playing tunes rock/rhythm and blues.


The Grands hear a steamboat’s calliope deliver
The greatest hits from the artist John Denver.
Take me home country road to the place I belong
The music’s so fun, the Grands sing along.

​Running up and down on the rocks by the shore
Free like a bird, Gam watches them soar.
Time to sit down and take in the view
There’s so much to see and much more to do.


Let’s check out the vendors to see what they’ve got
Slush puppies, fudge cakes, and more stuff that’s hot.
They walk to the end of the road and stop
We’ve seen everything time is ticking ‘tick tock.’

​Too excited to eat, the Grands want to play
The blow-ups are waiting on display.
There’s a maze, an obstacle course,
​and a giant monster truck.
Make sure you’re tall enough, don’t want to get stuck.


Sis and Bubba jump with a five-minute timer
Make each minute count climb higher and higher.
The monster truck is tall, at least 20 steps
Slide down, hit two bumps, and pray it doesn’t collapse.

​“Just one more time,” begged the Grands to Gam.
It’s so much fun, they’re trying to cram
Every activity they see at the river
Into two hours like quicksilver.



As we start making our way to the car
The last booth is calling their names from afar.
Bubba picks a sword. It’s called a Tachi.
A wonky hat for Sis. Grands are full of malarkey.

​BBQ on the river is a beautiful event
Comparable to no other held in tiny tents.
Over $400,000 raised each year
To help local people who could use some cheer.


Keep on Dancing, Dancing in the Streets
BBQ on the River is a community treat.
Fun and games for all, it’s a treasure trove
Helping those in need is the way to go!

While eating dinner, the Grands talked about 
baseball, basketball, and all sports with clout.
After much deliberation, Bubba declared
Baseball’s THE game. He’s ready and prepared.
​


At first, Gamma thought Ninja skills would be best
Propelled by obsessing over swords and dark vests.
But, to her surprise, baseball was his pick
Throwing, catching, and hitting balls with a stick.  



The idea came from a neighborhood friend,
a boy who was older and wiser than him.
He signed up for scrimmages and forty-minute games.
All he needed was a glove and an arm with good aim. 




Once registration and schedules were complete
Bubba got worried and developed cold feet.
It consumed conversations before the big day.
If Gam was too pushy, he might run away. 



Gamma remembers when ‘his mom’ was small
She enrolled in a dance class in early fall.
Though only three, Gam thought she was ready.
Later, she discovered there were butterflies in her belly.




From what Gam recalls, the class was competitive.
Mom needed more coddling, more positive than negative.
Their temperaments are similar. The truth slowly unravels.
Despite all their trash talk and constant babble. 



A few days went by without a discussion.
Allowed to sink in to avoid combustion. 
On the big day, Bubba asked not to go.
Gam said, “Give it a try before saying no.”




Baseball’s on Tuesdays, same as Sis’ ballet.
There’s little downtime, no nonsense, no delay.
They’ll meet at the ballpark before baseball starts.
Sis can encourage and calm Bubba’s heart. 



After parking the car, Gam and Sis see
Bubba is in the backseat as still as a tree.
On the way to the ballfield, he fell asleep
Eyes closed in the car seat, counting sheep.



Sis wakes Bubba up, but he doesn’t get out.
Gamma gently asks, “What’s this all about?”
He confesses his worries and the things that he dreads.
He’s concerned that the baseball might hit him in the head.



Be prepared is Gam’s motto. She usually is.
She packed Sis’ shoes, the white and pink Keds.
Maybe Sis can play. She’s only five
Let’s ask the coaches and give it a try.




Sis can play. Hooray! It’s not too late.
Add her name to the roster. Wow, this is great!
Bubba stays apprehensive and hides behind Mom.
Sis hits the field. She starts tossing the ball.



Gamma said, “Bubba, let’s go play catch.”
Bubba comes out of hiding, ready to dispatch.
With Sis on one end and Bubba on the other.
It’s not so bad when you’ve got each other.



A whistle blows from the coach at the Rec
He motions the kids in for a talk and a stretch.
He says it’s crucial to warm up the muscles.
Gamma agrees. No worries, no fusses.



Up go the arms, legs bend, touch your toes
Gam and the Grands reach high and low.
The coach said to sit cross-legged, Indian-style
All follow instructions, each flashing a smile.



Gamma sits on the grass in athletic-cut shorts
She extends and lengthens as her body contorts.
The grass was itchy and prickly on her thighs
She scratches and slaps at the gnats flying by.



After the pep talk and pregame warm-ups
Run the bases. Don’t trip. Watch out for bumps.
Gam sits this one out. The Grands think it’s fun.
Run like the wind. Baseball has begun.

​Kicking dirt with your shoes, smokey hue in the air
Go to first, second, and third if you dare.
The last stop is home plate. It’s the most important.
Scoring a run is the purpose or something. 



Jog out to the field. Remember your glove.
Look up to the sky. A ball falls from above.
Hold your glove steady and wait for a thump
Solid catch, ‘Yippee,’ and a celebratory high jump.

​The best part is batting. The Grands are excited.
They’ve sat on the bench, patient and quiet, 
awaiting instruction on how to begin.
Helmets on first to protect the big grins.



First at bat is Sis. She swings at the ball.
Take off running, go fast, and don’t fall.
Next is Bubba, he’s four and ‘number-one’ son. 
Good swing, go to second, turn third, homerun!

​One more inning in the outfield, concentrating on the game
Other kids hit the ball. It’s much of the same.
The second time at bat, Sis and Bubba start it off.
The enjoyment on their faces is the ultimate payoff.

​At the end of the game, there are snacks and drinks
Confessing their hunger, Gam gives them a wink.
Attempting new things is never a mistake
Confidence gained, a ‘piece of cake.’

It’s Labor Day weekend with no plans
Three days of chillin’ and grillin’ with the clan.
Hanging out with Daddy and Brother Ty
Video games and finding buckeyes.



Sunday’s for church and stories of Jesus
Los Amigos for lunch will surely please us
Monday is Labor Day. What shall we do?
Gamma requests the Grands' input, too. 



The day was hot, humidity high
brought sweat on the head that began to slide
Down Bubba’s neck and onto his back
He got an itch and asked for a scratch



Shoot a few hoops and make a fastbreak
Take turns in the paint and stand up straight
The basketball goal stands at seven feet tall
The Grands want a bucket, though they’re a bit small.



Bubba dribbles the ball with such precision
To the front of the goal with no apprehension
How do you shoot when you’re just a tot?
Squat down, toss the ball, and try a granny shot.

Sis gets her turn and dribbles around
Listening to the sound of the ball as it pounds.
She takes the shot all the way to the hoop
Sounds of a basket a swish then a swoop. 
​

 
The play continues for a short while
Dribbling, layups, and lots of smiles.
The sun is high. Bright light fills the skies.
The goal’s hard to see. Bubba squints his eyes.



The Grands heard Gam say, “Let’s eat and get a drink.
Gam needs coffee so she can think.”
She suggests whole-grain cereal or a piece of fresh fruit
It’s cool, sweet, and healthy to boot.



They missed the parade. It started too early.
Slow in the morning. Gam’s not in a hurry. 
Sis responds with the standard, “I’m bored.” 
Quiet time’s ending, playtime restored. 



The natives are restless after filling their tummies
YouTube kids start singing, dancing, and humming.
Gamma believes she can’t take one more song
Ninja Kids Ninja Kids all day long.



Carson Park announced a celebration, 
With live music, ice cream, and blow-up attractions.
The flyer reads, ‘Activities until four’
An event the Grands will want to explore.



It’s essential for children to run and play
Releasing energy every day.
They load up the car; excitement abounds
Gamma and the Grands are going to town.



The children think the park has swings
Monkey bars, slides, and other park things.
Horses live there and have so for ages.
Complete with a paddock, race track, and stables.



Turn into the park to hunt for a spot.
Looking for shade, it’s way too hot.
Hop out, wait for Gam, and proceed to the middle
Across the race track ‘hey diddle-diddle”. 



First, it’s the blowups so Sis can jump.
Bubba’s so fiery he can feel his heart thump.
He stays in the shade of the giant balloon.
Sis soars down the slide while Gam listens to tunes.


Not long after bouncing, everyone’s parched.
Off to concessions, they doggedly march. 
The first and last stop is Paradise Snow
Twelve inches of ice ‘ho-ho-ho.’



Sis is the first to choose her flavor
So many to pick from and to savor.
She decides cotton candy is the way to go
Pink is the color, not indigo.  



Bubba’s turn to choose one or the other
Cotton Candy in blue it’s his favorite color
Selections secured, the three take a seat
All ready to relax and prop up their feet.



The first bite is chilly. It’s frosty on the lips
Slides down the throat like a faucet’s cold drip.
It’s more like ice, Gamma thinks, than snow
A flimsy, plastic spoon doesn’t scoop down below.



Forcing the spoon into the cup like a stick
Realizing an ice pick would best do the trick.
Sis makes a sad face and says she can’t taste
The cotton candy goodness she chose to embrace.



Bubba’s is good. Sis gives it a try.
Pink has no flavor. She lets out a sigh.
Gamma gulps down a spoonful and agrees
Blue is much better than pink times three. 



In school, children learn sharing is best
Bubba wants Sis to feel happy and blessed
He shares his blue snow cone with Sis without asking
Friends forever and love everlasting. ​

Things We Lost in the Fire is a (2007) film starring Halle Berry and Benicio del Toro. Berry is the mother of two children and wife to her recently deceased husband. Del Toro is the husband’s best friend and a heroin addict. In the story, an electrical fire causes minor damage to the garage. However, the loss is more grave than a small fire. The sudden and tragic death of the husband is the fire. All is gone, lost in the fire.


Gamma remembers losing her things in a fire. She was in fourth grade and lived in Wallace Park. One afternoon, a church friend of her mom’s needed a babysitter. Happy to help, Gamma’s mom agreed to watch the friend’s two children while the friend worked on her college thesis. After loading up the car to go a few short blocks away, Gamma and her family went to help a friend in need. 



After a few hours with the friends' kids, Gamma, her mom, and her brother returned home. Usually, her mom parked the station wagon in the driveway. This time, she parked it on the street. The children hopped out of the car and ran up the sidewalk to the front door. Their mom only steps behind. After using the key to unlock the door, Gamma stepped up and pushed it open. The suffocating vapors and intense fumes smacked all of them in the face. The thick, dark smoke was impenetrable. The two-story brick home was on fire.


As the fire trucks arrived, the family stood silently in the street. Gamma thought, ‘All is lost’. Her things like Barbies, clothes, toys, and pictures are all gone. People from the neighborhood started to gather. Gamma helplessly squatted close to the curb with her mom and brother. Nobody moved, not even an inch. 
​

The high-powered firehose forced its fury on top of the roof over the family room. The Fire Marshal determined the cause of the blaze was due to a lightning strike. The best way to describe the scene was shocking. All was gone, lost in the fire.

A fire was about to ignite in Gamma's Grand’s world. It was Sunday afternoon. Sis was bored. She started rummaging through random pictures from inside the drawers of the dining room buffet table. Instantly, she recognized one of the photographs. It was a picture of her Pre-K class from last year. She snatched it from the drawer and headed to Gam’s bedroom, a place of refuge in times of trouble.  Sis’ bottom lip started to quiver. Her smile turned upside down. Teardrops rolled down her cheeks. Her body slumped over like an old lady with osteoporosis.


Gamma asked what was wrong. At first, Sis wouldn’t say. All she could do was look at the photograph, then at Gamma, then back again. After a minute, Sis shared her sorrow. She missed her friends, the ones she made last year at Pre-K. Sis missed playing on the playground with them. She missed drawing pictures with them. She missed sitting on the carpet watching movies with them. All was gone, lost in the fire. 
​

There have been other losses. Recently, the family lost two pets. Sissy was their dog. She was a kind, gentle, 14-year-old golden retriever mix. The children loved petting her thick, wavy hair.  They would pretend Sissy was human and have her wear hats. Bubba put socks on her paws to keep her ‘feet’ warm. It was hard to understand why she was here one day and gone the next. Gamma had scheduled an appointment at the veterinary clinic for her to go to sleep. Sissy had suffered a long illness. It was time. How could Sis and Bubba be saying goodbye if she was still here? Again, with the pouty lip, tear down the face, and bowed head. All was gone, lost in the fire.

The second pet loss came a few months later. Apollo was a rescue cat. He slept in the heated garage but spent his days inside the house. Apollo enjoyed roaming the neighborhood but stayed close to home. The family guessed he was 12 years old. His only health issue was a bad tooth.


Apollo came to live with the family in 2014. Previously, those in his old neighborhood kept him fed, not sheltered. The rescue happened after a cat attack. A concerned neighbor brought Apollo to the veterinary clinic where Sis’ mom worked. Cats in the subdivision had bullied Apollo. He was a lover, not a fighter. After healing, Sis’ mom decided to bring him home. This past summer, he got into poison and died. He was here one day and gone the next. All was gone, lost in the fire.

Experiencing grief isn’t easy at any age. Understanding it is a whole different thing. Children have trouble with finality. How could something so loved go away and never come back? Is Sissy in heaven? When will she be back? When will we see her again? When will we see Apollo again? Then, something clicks. Children realize it’s permanent. Sis’ friends from Pre-K aren’t in her class anymore. Things will never be the same. All is gone, lost in the fire.

Things Lost


Sister grabbed the picture out of the drawer. 
She looked at it once and then a bit more.
Off to bed to sit and think.
Preschool friends lost in a blink.
 
Sis wondered why they were gone.
How can it be? Did I do something wrong?
We had so much fun, they were my friends.
Would it ever be the same again?



Gamma’s not sure how to respond.
She watched Sis’ face grow sad and withdrawn.
With one single tear streaming down her face
Gamma knew heartache had taken place.

 
Sis pointed to friends and made a mental tally
Spotting three of her besties: Jessa, Jason, and Miss Allie.
Her eyes remained fixed on the photo from that day
The camera captured smiles just outside the hallway.


It was time for a hug, Gamma decided
No words were necessary until emotions subsided.
The quiet was comforting; no send or reply 
Just the warmth and the ease of a loved one nearby.

 
They sat quietly for a moment while Sister cried
It’s nice having feelings you don’t have to hide.
The two rocked together more slowly at first
As the swaying continued, the tears dispersed. 



After taking the time to grieve with no words, 
Gamma asked the question,” Why do you hurt?”
At first, there was silence, then Sister replied.
Sharing thoughts and sentiments she began to confide.

 
“You remember Jason, my friend at school?
We played on the playground and sat on the stools
In art class, we drew pictures and made things with clay.
I don’t see him anymore he’s a few doors away.”



“Jessa’s my friend. She liked playing with dolls.
We dressed them in clothes and helped them to crawl.
Miss Allie’s the teacher who told me I shined.
She’s the one I’ll remember because she was kind.”

 
Gam took a deep breath and mulled it all over.
She thought about one thing and then another. 
Sis is getting older it will be okay.
To hear the truth about loss today. 



“Let’s talk about this,” Gamma said as she waited.
For Sis to agree, talks aren’t over-rated.
Sis peeked through the hair that fell around her face.
Ready to listen and respond in good faith. 

 
Gam asked, “Do you remember about the house fire, 
The lightning-sparked meltdown of the electrical wire?”
That day was scary, sad, and just wrong.
Gam wondered if her feelings were lifelong.


A week or two later, Gam received a surprise.
New Barbies, new clothes, and new shoes in her size
Gam liked her new toys and the dresses with pockets.
But it’s hard to forget the old things in her closet.

 
Gam’s mom said she knew what it's like to lose things.
She lost her dog, Lady, when she was fourteen.
As time passes, the hurt becomes less.
Memories are happy ones, and you’ll feel blessed.
​ 
 
Let’s think about loss like friends in your past.
They’re still at your school, just not in your class.
Friends come and go, animals too
God’s gifts from above, on loan to you. 

Two sleepy children are snug in their beds
Sweet dreams and good things mull around in their heads.
Playdates, pool parties, and toes in the sand
Late summer nights and sleepovers with friends.


August is here, and routines will soon change
For two idle children, life won’t be the same.
One is quite happy about new adventures
The other has feelings of apprehension.


Beginnings are scary, impossible to ignore
This story starts on the eve before. 
It’s Sunday night, and Mom sets the alarm
A ringing and dinging full-on marathon.  



All must be up by seven o’clock
One hour before the school bus stops.
Alerts, flashing lights, and plans are in place
The children must wake up and keep up the pace.

Sis is the hardest to rise from her slumber
Encased in her sheets like she’s inside a bunker.
To successfully engage, Mom needs to be clever
She sends Baby Brother for the critical endeavor.   



He slaps down his hands like he’s beating a drum
On Sister’s double-bed dum-ditty dum.
From under the linens, Sis slowly does rise
She stretches her arms and opens her eyes.

​

Baby Brother’s a’ grinnin’ one ear to the other
Sis offers a half-smile and throws back the covers.
Meanwhile, Bubba’s sleeping through all of the babble
Dreaming of race cars and kicking pea gravel.



It’s his turn to awaken and face the new day
Thank goodness he’s easy and doesn’t delay. 
Rolling out of the bed to the closet, they go
Change from pajamas and into school clothes.

Sis puts on shorts, a shirt, and a dress
Trying to decide which outfit looks best.
Bubba likes clothes that don’t make him twitch,
Soft cotton t-shirts will forgo the itch.
 


The routine continues by keeping teeth white
Toothbrushes and toothpaste, brush brush, don’t fight.
With two at the vanity, pushing and shoving
The one to the side is the more peace-loving.

​

Here’s the thing to consider when dealing with siblings 
The closer the age, the more frequent the quibbling.
Sometime in the future, it won’t matter in the slightest. 
It’s sister and brotherly love at its finest.
 


Wipe faces and hands, set the towel on the sink 
Keep things moving, there’s no time to blink.
To think only last week they slept until nine
No rushing. No worries. No reason to whine.

Everything’s a flurry before exiting the door
Baby Brother just sits there and plays on the floor. 
More grooming is necessary before taking leave
Sometimes, hair brushing will cause Sis to scream.



She got a new hairstyle before school started
Long hair and tangles have finally parted.
Bubba sees a barber for a big boy haircut
Snip snip with the clippers, he keeps his eyes shut.



Time to grab backpacks hurriedly off of the hook
Sling over the shoulders, take a quick look.
They notice their feet don’t have any shoes
Where did they put them? They go looking for clues.



Could they be in the closet or by the backdoor?
Check out Baby Brother, he’s got ’em on the floor.
Walk down the driveway and to the bus stop
Mom eyeballs her phone, it’s eight o’clock.




The children look up from the street below
They see Gamma’s watching inside her window.
New routines take practice, understanding, and conversation
As children explore life’s undiscovered destinations.

Bedtime approaches somewhere around nine 
Prayers and pajamas for when it’s time.
There’s one hour left before tucking in sheets
The children are ready to make the sweet treats




Best Chef is located inside Gam’s bedroom
The actual cooking is in the bathroom
The sink is for washing the dirt from the hands
Paper towel germs are thrown in trash cans. 




The bathtub works best for prepping the cakes
It’s just the right height and has lots of space.
The closet is used for food and supplies
Brooms, mops, and pans tucked away in disguise.



“We make sweets here,’ Bubba says and continues
On back to the kitchen to grab all the menus
Before it gets maddening and orders fly in
Bubba and Sis take a breath and begin. 

​


Gamma’s the customer; sometimes it’s mom
Service is snappy and doesn’t take long
Bubba points to a note that’s taped to the door 
A checkmark means open, X closed until four

The staff’s in the kitchen there’s lots to do
Sis says, ‘We should hurry. It’s only us two.’ 
There’s clanging and banging and noise getting louder
Gam prays the two children aren’t using gunpowder.



Best Chef opens soon; time to review
The menu for Sunday before orders accrue
Bubba mentioned the sweets and went on to say
“We have gummies, milkshakes, and bananas today.’

​

Sis loves all the veggies and likes making salad
Like tomatoes with basil to please Gamma's palate.
“What will you have?’ asks Sis, pen in hand
She waits for an answer still in command.

Gamma loves all the choices and ponders a minute
She could start with dessert and end with spinach.
Sometimes it’s not easy to know what you want
So many good options in this restaurant.
 


Gam makes a decision and starts this fine meal
Ordering soup, salad, and drink with a lemon peel.
Sis writes down the order and quickly spins around
Off to the kitchen, barely making a sound.


​
When she returns with her delights on a tray
Gamma’s excited to see her display.
It’s alphabet soup made of spongy foam letters
And a toy boat with lettuce that’s no longer tethered.

The main course is finished; it's time for a perk
Bubba takes the sweets order since he likes dessert
Sis picks up the dishes to keep a clean table
Gam orders gummies on top of a bagel.



The children watch Gam as she takes her last bite
They hoped she liked it and thought it quite nice.
Next up the check that Gam gladly accepts
She grabs her brown wallet where money is kept.



​Grands like shiny coins not paper with ink.
Drop into the register to hear ‘clink-clink.’  
Bubba says, ‘Come again. We open at eight.’
He appreciates the tip and makes his escape.

​Bubba places an X on the door to mark closed,
Gam welcomes the info and leaps to her toes.  
It’s about time for the Grands to take flight
Eighty-sixing themselves until tomorrow night.