A MOMMA'S BOY

A MOMMA'S BOY

Roger A. Davis

I should be one, remembering coming from you at birth
Many have disputed this and it has caused exceeding mirth
Being the family's boastful storyteller
Is it a middle child thing that I'm such a yeller?

"No apologies necessary," Bobbie Jean will say
Our mom is excellent at accepting the cards as they lay
When I call, she always has time for me
Even it if is during Prime Time on TV

I often read her my writings first
Being a momma's boy, seeking her accolades is my thirst
And as a loving mother should, she fulfills the bill
Never uttering a negative or an unkind trill

"Mom, I'm your momma's boy to our earthly end"
You are my sounding board and more, a great friend
This is your Happy Mother's Day card that I've signed
Thanking the Lord for our relationship that He designed

GARDEN WEDDING

GARDEN WEDDING

Roger A. Davis

Hannah Elizabeth and Daniel Joseph, thou art wed
Two have become one, to be known on the marriage bed
The service is in an Eden-like place
With flowers, friends, the Trinity and lace

Now each day and moment, a tale of one
The author takes a duet and writes a solo to be sung
So much sweeter, you will see
It is the great mystery

For it is the fashion of Jesus and His bride
And in you, Daniel and Hannah, the Heavenly Father takes great pride
In your union and love vow
Just as our wills to Jesus, we do bow

What He wants is for you to enjoy and grow in grace
Finding His blessings in each and every place
What some might call difficulties, together you will overcome
In the Father, Son, and Spirit, one is now the key sum

This is a poem, prayer and blessing tune
Sunday, 2009, the twenty-eighth of June
May your romance blossom like this prairie garden
And may none of life's weeds make your heart harden

HOSPITAL HOSPITALITY

HOSPITAL HOSPITALITY
Dedicated to McPherson Memorial Hospital
and the Third Floor caregivers

Roger A. Davis

A good place for getting well
But the reason might be a pain, do tell
Thank God for these houses of healing
Though it seems, at that time, not appealing

We can see the Lord’s hand at work
Just getting results is our perk
For some it may be death, for others new health
It’s all contained in His wealth

To live is Christ, to die is gain
The result of all our pain
Health-givers we meet
Is a special treat

Doctors, nurses, especially the aides
Yet, all staff is part of this gift basket
No mint on the beds
Just helpful meds

Take your meds and the love
Knowing it comes from above

MR. ROGER'S NEIGHBORHOOD

MR. ROGER'S NEIGHBORHOOD

Roger A. Davis

I’m King Friday
Each day is TGIF, weee!!!
All days are weekends for this retiree
So boogie down, party

My scheduling is based on spontaneity
Unless loved ones have sent an invite
Just looking forward to life's gratuity
Taking in each and every sight

Homebound now because of black outs
Some loneliness, being an 'on the go’ type
Now finding new routes
Dependent on others, let there be no gripe

I have been much aided
Every day I'm persuaded
That whatever the next moment reveals
It is the cards my Heavenly Father deals

My neighborhood is a card, visit, TV, call or email
Or just someone thinking of me
Someday I’ll make bail
Yet, in Jesus, indeed I’m free

So come and take off your work shoes
Enjoy the songs, including the blues
Knowing we are all special in His sight
Have a beautiful day in the neighborhood tonight

STILES ARE THE STYLE

STILES ARE THE STYLE

Roger A. Davis

A stile is an access way over a boundary
Such as steps over a fence or a wall
The cool part, no gate to close, that’s the key
Not having to put the horse in a stall

We had one on our ranch in Barber County
Going to the adjoining ranch house made it handy
No railing, though, made it a little tense
Yet a small price to pay not having to open a barbwire fence

Cattle gates of oil pipe construction are sweet
The animals stay put because they worry about their feet
Yet, we can drive over and no gate to fight
Just breeze on in as we sit tight

Are you getting the idea, I like things that make access easy?
Elevators and escalators, anything that doesn’t leave you wheezy
Turnstiles and automatic doors
Standard at department stores

If you are out and about and a little old lady needs an assist
Or a child, or a pet, etc., don’t resist
Just remember how good it feels to be cared for
Even a cool cup of water given in His name is amour

CONFIDENCE CONVICTIONS

CONFIDENCE CONVICTIONS

Roger A. Davis

Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. [Philippians 1: 6 NIV]

Muhammad Ali was fond of saying, "I am the greatest." Paul, the writer of the above verse, wrote that he was the least of God's people. Paul's confidence was Jesus dwelling in him; Ali in himself. What is your confidence based on today?

The ongoing world economic shake-up has some people’s confidence levels in the dumpster. Paul learned to be content in whatever the circumstances, whether he had plenty or in need. Most of us are not there yet and anxiety robs us of confidence convictions.

There are some things we can do to have spiritual recovery: (1) Rejoice in our circumstances; (2) Give thanks in all things; and (3) Read and pray God's word. It may not change our circumstances, but we will enjoy each day more.

There are those who have a stock market attitude. If they are having a good day, all is rosy. If not, all is thorny. Let us pray we can get passed that and enter into this conviction.

God has the whole world in His hands and He wants us to enjoy the journey.

THE BOOMBOX OF FORGIVENESS

THE BOOMBOX OF FORGIVENESS

Roger A. Davis

Corrie ten Boom, author of The Hiding Place
No bitterness in her life, not a trace
Corrie learned it’s by God, not of herself, that she forgave
This allowed her to share His love, being graciously brave

In the Netherlands, the family saved many Jews from annihilation
They were caught and sent to camps of concentration
Some of family members were released but not Betsie, Corrie or Casper their dad
Casper died on the way, then Betsie at Ravensbruck, so sad

"There is no pit so deep that God's love is not deeper still"
Betsie told Corrie this before entering into God's eternal will
Corrie was accidentally released by a clerical mistake
Ten books have been written about this woman of God, she was no fake

"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." [Ephesians 4:32 NIV]
Corrie experienced this in a way that hardly seems true
Later, she met the cruelest of the former camp guards one day
He extended his hand, she had to pray

Then she grasped his hand and felt the most intense love of God ever in her life
Verifying the scripture above, so let the Lord rid ourselves of all bitterness and strife
We have found if we praise Him in all things
He will cleanse us, The King of All Kings

Corrie ten, the boombox to the world, her sweet music can still be heard
She left us many a melody, those of a lady who practiced God's Word
So let us, too, be an instrument of praise and thanksgiving
Growing more in Christ's likeness while we are still living

DAYS OF THEN

DAYS OF THEN

By Gene Henry

He sits in the room, all alone, trying to stay strong
Another sleepless night, a night forever long
He rests his weary head and hugs his pillow tight
He sobs so deep and sad, as he kisses her good-night
He tosses and turns, and kicks the covers free
He silently starts to scream, why did she have to leave
He feels the empty void, utterly alone
But then again, why not, the love he had is gone
Sometimes at night, it all becomes clear
It is at times like these, he knows she’s really near
He lays back down again, and tells the night good-bye
His heart is overflowing, overflowing through his eyes
The alarm goes off, as usual, he barely hears its vibes
All he hears and knows is why
Why did she have to die!!!
He thinks he’s mad at God, and feels guilt from that inside
He quickly looks about, a good safe place to hide
He thinks he’ll lay back down, a moment, maybe two
And wonders to himself, what am I going to do?
As he drifts with the sandman, his dreams are filled with mist
He knows that she is near; he just felt the softest kiss
He wonders how he’ll make it through; his world was filled with her
Empty days of now, how he wishes for days of then

HOW HE PRAYS FOR DAYS OF THEN

Zoo Uncaged

(Grief cannot be read or told - only felt)

PESSIMISM TO PEPTIMISM

PESSIMISM TO PEPTIMISM

Roger A. Davis

Does evil outweigh good?
Do you think you are being misunderstood?
There is one who knows better than a brother
It’s God, The Father, like no other

Some walk in veils of gloom
Expecting and accepting attitudes of doom
Been there, done that, for times untold
Happy days now, I’m gospel bold

I go to a pep rally at a UMC Fellowship
A chance to praise and worship
Where we are edified for the race to run
Our Savior enjoys His family’s having spiritual fun

Where we are turned into His likeness, too
By His word, freed from pessimistic glue
Here is a coined word, ‘Peptimist.’ What’s that about?
Peptimist: Christians by hope and faith, reaction; gospel cheers they shout

They read Romans Chapter 8
And such joy does it translate
Their voices and hearts soar above
By trusting in His Holy Love

So turn your whine into song
Because in His love is where you belong
And wherever the pep rally is, Jesus will appear
For, if it is just two or three, that, too, He finds dear

LAND OF AHS

LAND OF AHS

Roger A. Davis

My four adopted Japanese-American sisters flew into Wichita
First leg of seeing many an ‘Ah’
On to Hutchinson to stay with Eve
Up real early to go gambling, would you believe?

We met in McPherson at Perkins for my seatmate
Then it was on to Prairie Band to check out our fate
Chez rode with me and she is a blast
Regaling me with stories of her past

I pointed out ahs like Fort Riley and the Flint Hills
Told later, my swerving gave the family following us the chillsAfter rest stops toward our destination
We reached Prairie Band of the Potawatomi Nation

Checked in luggage, then to the slots we went
This began the pocketbook money dent
Eve ended up the only winner of bucks
The rest of saying, 'Aw shucks!'

Enjoyed a buffet dinner with Amanda and my son
The girls gave gifts to all; this was very fun
One of mine was an ivory tiger to wear
The sisters really know how to share

Next day, after a short slot session
We started our Eden Prairie School procession
Gas stop in Abilene had a gift store
Those California girls got Oz gifts galore

Lindsborg, Marquette, and then my abode
Again, fantastic stories Chez told
Eve really enjoyed the place
Being a one room schoolmarm face

Marge did her PC tricks on my files
And we parted there with hugs and smiles
We met that night at Aunt Donna's with my relation
Girls giving presents, plus a great meal sensation

Much give and take at the table
But I got more than my share
Don't you feel my concern, my being a disable?
Mom said it’s just subtle love and care

I left early - just tired, not mad
My emotions: enjoyed the journey and a little sad
The girls got a tour of Donna's place
It included a doll with Shirley Temple's face

Next day, Eve had family come and go
Wish I could have been a mouse to see that comical flow
Friday, a salt mine descent
Then back to L.A. they went

Marge called me when they got to LAX
So I could sleep and not be vexed
In this Land of Ahs, this was my favorite trip
The fellowship really righted my broadsided ship

PRAIRIE BAND'S MAIN SERVING HAND

PRAIRIE BAND’S MAIN SERVING HAND
(Nancy’s Poem)

Roger A. Davis

Nancy Wahwedtten is her name
At the casino, she has gained much fame
Rising to drink supervisor now days
With her smile, attitude and winning ways

Nancy is my favorite for bringing sodas to my seat
I get a peck and a big hug when we meet
It may be because I'm her big live teddy bear
She really conveys love and care

She has two girls she lovingly talks about
And, once in a while, mentions her ex who is a lout
Yes, most of our talk is on an upbeat note
So this is why, of all the employees, she gets my vote

Nancy liked to ride her quarter horse and thoroughbred
Let them go, no place to keep and cost much to be fed
A passion for golf, she happily told me
Just for fun, keeping no score leaving the tee

Owning restaurants is in her resume
And she still likes to cook to this very day
Spaghetti is a specialty dish
Sharing a plate with her is my wish

When we greet, it seems as if we’re lifelong pals
I pray she will always be the chief server of the gals
So, Nancy, my good friend, if you get sad
Reread this poem, and may the Lord Jesus make you glad

WHEELCHAIR HELPERS

WHEELCHAIR HELPERS

Roger A. Davis

Others in their chairs have helpers in tow
For me, it is usually solo
Unless it’s the valet or my son
For them, it’s not much fun

Loading my portable is a strain
It causes me a lot of back pain
At the Golden Eagle, Security does the deed
I’m so thankful for them meeting this need

Since I found to use my feet
It’s easier to go backwards in my seat
I must often turn my neck
To avoid people and not have a wreck

I’m teased of needing backup lights installed
Or an alarm, or whatever it’s called
Yet, most people give me the right-of-way
I say, ‘Thanks and have a good day’

Power scooters or wheelchairs you readily see
Mine for home-use cost an amazing fee
Thanks, all you taxpayers, for the customized chair
But, somehow, it doesn’t seem fair

Handicap accessible is really cool
So happy to have it at Eden Prairie School
Boys and girls bathroom doors are too small
I can still walk to the shower and stall

I was asked to write this poem by my friend Eiko
The suggestion was generated by what, I don’t know
I guess it was the grumbling of, for one, my brother
And of my son, the other

It’s my own fault to be this disabled
Taking in too much food at the dinner table
They have every right to vent their distaste
If our roles were reversed, would I helpingly hesitate?

EMAIL

EMAIL

Roger A. Davis
raddad715@hotmail.com

This is my email address
I feel our blog site is a success
I've chosen this day to confide
Deciding to no longer hide

Need to see if you are being reached
A reply I do beseech
Something about esteem
Pat on the back, it would seem

I want to know I write not in vain
Are you sharing my joy and pain?
Self-centered is this appeal
Any reply would fill the bill

A good, bad or an ugly critique
This is what I seek
I have said I do it for God's glory
But I want to hear your story

So get on your pc
And communicate with me
I will reply in a rhyme
In due time

If you send a thumbnail sketched biography
This will bring much glee
And I will write a poem just for thee
Of course, no fee

Please, if not this, just a word or two
I really want hear from you
If no reply, I'll honor that with a sigh
To those who do, no forwarding; I would rather die

KANSAS UNDERGROUND SALT MUSEUM

KANSAS UNDERGROUND SALT MUSEUM

Roger A. Davis

“One of the 8 Wonders of Kansas” printed on your ticket, it’s been dubbed
There, for many years, salt miners’ shoulders rubbed
Pick and shovel and a wooden cart
This was the method of extraction at the start

As the years went by, Carey improved their ways
Hi-loaders and conveyors are in use now days
Dynamite before, now ANFO does the blast
An amazing story of progression from the past

Trams take you on this one-of-a-kind view
With very knowledgeable guides, too
70 miles of mined corridors, amazing ceilings and floors
An exhibit gallery and so much more

Saw the vector monitor from the movie 'Twister'
I wonder what the favorite exhibit was of each visitor
Dr. Vreeland’s lab display was really cool
Also the 'Men in Black' mind eraser tool

40% humidity and 68 degrees
And none of that Kansas southwind breeze
It makes for preservation better than a deep freeze
It keeps the movie and TV industries at ease

Artifacts and movies storage bring a big source of revenue
I met Kelly from Retrieval Records, too
Recently, the old Norelco Shaver commercial sent for an update
The one that sleds the snow; I'm looking forward to its new fate

The streets of Chicago are the biggest users of salt from the Carey Mine
Yet, for Kansas, I think this museum is a brilliant gold mine find
Yes, I would recommend it to those close and far away
A great experience worth more than twice of what you pay

I met staff and visitors and never a negative comment
Even after that tremendous elevator descent
They went the extra mile for this wheelchair patron
Please include a visit in your plans for a field trip or vacation

FROM THE LAND OF COTTON

FROM THE LAND OF COTTON

Roger A. Davis

There once was a box of Q-Tips that belonged to an aged Southern gent
A few of the hygiene tools dug out his ear wax and into the trash away they went
The Q-Tip family had hoped for a less mundane fate
Then the old man died and his 16 year old granddaughter, Kate, inherited his estate
She and her family moved in the next day
Which just happened to be her birthday
A cake was baked but no candles were found
And it was too late and too far to go to town
In the box, 16 Q-Tips lay in a row
And those mundane objects became stars of the show
Ends clipped and dipped in coal oil, the candles underwent transformation
Lit, they topped the cake for Kate’s birthday celebration
Old time days from the Land of Cotton
Look away, look away, and don’t let this story be forgotten

PIPER'S FINE FOODS

PIPER'S FINE FOODS

Roger A. Davis

Charles and Flora begin this grocery rhyme
Three sons followed in time
Steve is now the boss, I think
But if I said that to Mary, I bet she would wink

Their two children have worked in the store
Plus a staff over the years of many more
Gayla is my favorite employee
I’m old friends with her and husband, Denny

Piper’s is a Marquette main stay
They also operate The Valley Cafe
If these businesses weren’t there
Our town would be in an economic nightmare

Steve is known for his delicacy treats
Which include sausage and fine cuts of meats
They supply Swedish food items, too
And they’ll also do special ordering for you

Store-made soup and pizza at a good price
No extra cost for multi-toppings; isn’t that nice
Wednesday boxed fried chicken in the afternoon
But, if you didn’t reserve, you’d better get there soon

For a small store, they have most everything
I call in my order and to the car they bring
Words cannot express my gratitude to Steve and the staff
Especially Gayla, with her smile and laugh

Closing this with an overdue apology
For the years of being an out-of-town spender of our money
Yet, you were gracious when I started to buy
You’ve gone the extra mile; it’s truly made me cry

MUTUAL ADMIRATION SOCIETY

MUTUAL ADMIRATION SOCIETY

Roger A. Davis

This is not one of those secret clubs
The world goes around us; we’re the hubs
The focal point is the center of activity
This is true for my friend Chez and me

Trying to think of a name for our organization
Like minds may join across the nation
Egos that are mutually pampered and praised
Esteems that are already exceedingly raised

We have nemeses out there, it is said
Fighting us from getting a big head
In my circle of culprits are my editor and my brother
But not my loving mother

Name I suggested: COOTS WHO TOOT
With negative connotations, this one was rejected
TOOT OUR OWN HORNS
This one may be selected

Patting each other on the back
Abundance of this, never in lack
It is just enjoying each other’s company
To tell stories and bragging constantly

For some of us, it goes against our upbring
In families, there is usually one guilty sibling
But if there are two
Do not be at odds; join us, too

MENSA is a society of the high IQ
Our club wouldn’t be right for you
We are not about being smart and bright
It is reciprocal relations, so don’t get uptight

Another society name I suggest
PEOPLE WHO TELL EACH OTHER THEY ARE THE BEST
A long name, I know, but what the heck
Because we are not missing any cards from our deck

This is a poem of sarcasm, teasing and humor
Yet, my acquaintances would say it is more truth than rumor
I’m a ham on the stage of life
Pretty well a loose cannon since the loss of my wife

Join our society and suggest a name

SAVED FOR A REASON

SAVED FOR A REASON

Roger A. Davis

We all have seen the signs ‘Jesus Saves’
Been there, done that in waves
Not once, many times
We aren’t just talking at death in these rhymes

Had pneumonia in my first year
Death was a fear
Childhood diseases, too
But no bubonic flu

Totaled five cars before 22
Alcohol was the cause
Then a 30 year pause
Had turned to Jesus for birth anew

Once lost two back tires on a truck heading up I-35
Snow and ice, scares galore, yet all I did survive
Motorcycle spills, more than you can count on one hand
I still didn’t join the heavenly band

Through all my falls and spills
I never broke a bone
Guardian angels: I must not travel alone
A satanic attack in 1976 gave me 1 ½ years of chills

By getting into God’s Holy Book
He freed me from Satan’s hook
I witnessed His loving care at many a place
Of His mercy, compassion and grace

The workplace has held much death-defying traps
For ten years, I drank toxic waste water out of the taps
They were tested and the wells were never used again
No long term harm, nothing; I must have a friend

Tales like undiagnosed mental illness for so long
But my past readers know this sad song
Then there is my life threatening weight
Over 575 lbs is the going rate

Why do I share all this misfortune and shame?
We all are saved for a reason
Yes, we reap what we sow, this is not lame
But I think I was allowed to live for ‘Teason’

We’re talking ‘Teasoning’
Definitions:
1. To make fun of playfully
2. To annoy or pester
3. To urge persistently

There are definitions more derogatory
And, yes, I’ve done most of them, too
But I like to think these three are what I’m saved to do
And I hope I’ve been a fisher of men to you

Casting words of His creation as heavenly bait
Teasing you to recognize Him in all your fate
To go completely for Him - hook, line and sinker
Oh yes, forgive me for being such an annoying stinker

WIDOWER'S HOUSEWORK

WIDOWER'S HOUSEWORK

Roger A. Davis

If you hardly ever have a guest
You can just let dust and debris rest
There is no chance to pass the White Glove Test

Paper plates and plastic cups are used every day
Cleaning them is just to toss away
Fast food, napkins, spoons and forks, a cost-saving way

If silverware is used to eat
I usually wait to wash until it’s a paramount feat
Leaving me with dishwasher hands and physically beat

I have two vacuum cleaners that remain still
Picking up with my reacher is what ends up at the landfill
Occasionally, a broom and dustpan fill the bill

I wash my clothes and body the most
Not wanting to offend those who are my host
But if I’m homebound, I can’t boast

I've saved cooking for the last chore
Preparing food for one, I bet most eat more
Or for some, the opposite; dining alone can be a bore

So we eat watching TV
Pounds gained becomes easy
No exercise because we get sleepy
Isn’t it alarming how bad habits form deeply?

OLD RED BARN

OLD RED BARN

Adam Jones
December 2008


Knowledge and wisdom are things for which we all yearn.
No matter our age, we always want to learn.
Everyone needs a place to be taught to carry life’s load.
For me an old red barn was the beginning of the road.

My teacher was a tough, hardworking, simple man.
With a grease covered jean jacket, bloodied arms, and skin leather tan.
Simple in honest beliefs and attire,
But a mind every man strives to acquire.

With tools to fix most everything,
It was a place I truly loved being.
So many nuts and bolts there was no measure,
And a junk pile filled with many a treasure.

We changed oil, mufflers, starters, and shocks.
Anything is possible with a truck up on blocks.
Dog houses were built and boats restored,
With so much to do we were never bored.

In time I learned there was something special about this place.
Blood, sweat, and dirt are enough to bring a smile to any boy’s face.
But it was more than that, fore I was learning real values.
Working side by side with my brothers, we couldn’t lose.

Sometimes I feel lost now without that place, that man.
Going on without them hasn’t been easy, but I believe that I can.
The traditions passed on are deep within me.
Never to be forgotten, a part of who I always will be.

Just the smell of grease takes me back to those days.
To a special place and a special man, set in his ways.
I don’t know if I will ever find a place I feel as content,
As I did in that old red barn where most of my youth was spent.

THIS IS YOUR CAPTAIN SPEAKING

THIS IS YOUR CAPTAIN SPEAKING

Roger A. Davis

I’ve flown on a big jet once or twice
Instead of a movie, wouldn’t a comedy skit be nice?
Lines like ‘Air Speed, Warp Drive’
‘Altitude: Higher than anyone could skydive’

‘At Denver, I took a left instead of a right
Good news, another balmy L.A. night
In the morning, the Big Apple connection flight
Bad news, you’re paying; United’s budget is too tight’

‘A bearded is man asking us to stop for a Cuban cigar
Since Miami is our next stop, it won’t be far
He has an uncle there named Fidel
Our return flight, only time will tell’

‘This is your Captain speaking; my son is seated by me
He is 16, giving him flying lessons, no instructor’s fee
No Co-Pilot but don’t worry, no solo
My heart hurts, oh no!’

‘For you who are scared of heights
We are at tree top level, hard to see any sights
But it’s dark anyway, don’t be uptight
Thank you for flying with us, God bless and good night

H2O TOWER SHOW

H2O TOWER SHOW

Ode to the taken for granted water tower
Water brought to your home by gravity power
Various sizes and shapes on array
The gravity is free, water usage you pay

Tank with steel legs used to be the most
Teepee, cylinder and sphere now I think can boast
Saw one north of Topeka on a tripod
It looked kind of odd

Sapp Bros. advertise with a coffee pot
Are they real or not?
Some towns have a cold and hot
If it was true, no hot water heaters need be bought

Most towers are white or blue
Saw one the other day with a yellow hue
My drinkability appetite would wane
Yet, if you’re thirsty, would you refrain?

In our town, the macho feat was climbing the tower
While avoiding the constable power
Some carved ‘Dick loves Jane’ on trees
The ultimate was spray painting heartfelt pleas

So when you turn on the tap for flow
Be thankful for the H2O tower show
Whether it be a drink or shower
It is brought to you by a water tower

BILLFOLD BIOGRAPHY

BILLFOLD BIOGRAPHY

Roger A. Davis

Wallet, purse and billfold
Their contents reflect a story told
Identity of the beholder
Metaphor: A biography folder

A card that says you’re a legal driver
Can be a donor card, if you’re not a survivor
Most come with photo ID
Often used on a shopping spree

Laminated social security number I carry
Others don’t; thought of theft is scary
Are credit cards most life-telling?
Their uses are very compelling

Even gift cards tell where you eat
Given at Christmas as a stocking treat
Appointment cards, clues to your health
We are not people of stealth

Many of us carry pictures of loved ones, too
And Grandmas, not just a few
These tell a story of their family pride
And you don’t have to beg them to confide

A short list of a billfold’s biography
We didn’t mention Visa or Discovery
Those seem sterile and cold
‘The rest of the story’ is in our hearts, untold

ENDING EPIS-ODE

ENDING EPIS-ODE

Roger A. Davis

This may be my last hurrah
Am I kidding? Answer: Nah!
I’ve had my say
Expressed in many a way

I’ve become a broken record
Seems each poem has already been heard
I still have stories to tell
But dry is the rhyme well

So this is the finale
Yet reruns are available like on TV
Yes, I will post new stuff
Short stories off the cuff

So, on the first of May
Visit to see what I have to say
Did you feel a poke?
Is this an April Fools joke?

ENJOY THE JOURNEY

ENJOY THE JOURNEY

Roger A. Davis

Some set goals to arrive
If trouble comes, many take a nose dive
For others, like me
Just the trip brings glee

In our quests for fulfillment
For all, there is some lament
To rise above the roadblocks
You must overcome the stumbling blocks

We turn the lemons into ade
And do not let our happiness fade
There are always paths through the maze
Get back on the horse! Don’t accept the setback phase

One more step can set us on our enjoyment course
If faith is a guiding source
We are not seeking an end
Let’s just ‘Enjoy the journey,’ my friend

SILHOUETTE

SILHOUETTE

Roger A. Davis

Light, object, beholder’s eye
Beauty causes a pleasurable sigh
Whether a dead tree
Or a lighthouse, background: the sea

Best times are dusk and dawn
Looking up, spot a doe and a fawn
On my lampshade are wind mills
Giving me daily thrills

You are thinking of your favorite scenes
Even if they are from movies on theater screens
Childhood hand images of rabbit and snake
Shadow shows, what were you able to make?

Medical use of X-rays
Spotlight for Broadway plays
The list is long for many a silhouette
'The Eye of the Beholder' from Marquette

NIGHT LIGHT

NIGHT LIGHT

Roger A. Davis

Keeps you from going bump in the night
Or to prevent a scaredy-cat from getting uptight
A comfort zone, I think we all would agree
Exception: Pitch black, no light, they want to see

After dark, city lights are a treat
If heading home, they are there to greet
A lighthouse protecting rocky shores
And warning signals, trouble if one ignores

One sight I like is the crescent moon stage
A dislike, a forest fire’s burning rage
Unless the logs are in a fireplace
Then it earns a ‘Happy Face’

Humans are like moths in part
Drawn to lights like a horse, carrot and cart
Some say that is why we ventured into space
Conquering visits to the moon’s face

Creatures of light is our destiny
After death, we will see
If this biblical truth is real
A place with no night is the promised deal

SCREEN DOORS

SCREEN DOORS

Roger A. Davis

Your PC monitor is one
By Internet, it takes you everywhere under the sun
Your laptop even has hinges that open the screen
I wish I had one, they are sure keen

I have one on my back door
With a sliding glass pane that comes up from the floor
Good for a fall and spring breeze
Closed in winter, not wanting to freeze

Cool summer nights instead of using your A/Cs
A box fan will bring the temp down sufficient degrees
Plus it will air out the house with sweet summer scents
And save you some dollars and cents

There can be some drawbacks
Like skunk and cat attacks
You might be startled from your sleep
And if a skunk sprays, you will leap

My cat comes and meows ‘Hi’
I say, ‘I'm sleeping, good night and good bye’
Most times, it is her way of ringing the dinner bell
She doesn’t understand ‘Wait a spell’

Growing up, most screen doors had steel springs
And to lock them, they had hooks and eye rings
I liked running in and out, letting them bang
But often heard criticism with the word 'Dang!’

ACCIDENTAL HOMICIDE

ACCIDENTAL HOMICIDE

Roger A. Davis

The Crime Scene: The Girls Bathroom
Thought it was a spider, but a dust bunny met his doom
Smashed it to bits with my cane
I don’t think it felt any pain

There may be a hit out on me by organized dryer lint
I need a mediator to plead no harmful intent
Maybe I should turn myself in to the authorities
On examining the crime scene, dust bunnies are not the minorities

Cobwebs and carpet lint present, too
In a darkish room it’s easy to make a felony boo-boo
I turned myself in to the police
Promise of community service, I got release

Now into rest homes to clean out lint dryer traps
Could have been worse punishment, perhaps
I take my captive bunnies into my abode
And into a mattress I do load
They give me creature comfort every day
Don’t you feel it is a fit ending this way?

FUNNY BONE

FUNNY BONE

Roger A. Davis.

Hitting the elbow, not that one
Isn’t any fun
We’re talking humorous
Not the bone, humerus

A lot of negatives in those four lines
We want laughs, not whines
Our goal here is chuckles
Not brass knuckles

No bone to pick with ‘Knock Knock’ jokes
Unless it’s a progression of blonde jokes
And retire the ‘Why the chicken crossed the road?’
Unlike vintage wine, they’re stale and old

Most Super Bowl commercials go for jest
This year, I thought Doritos were the best
The glass ball opening the vending machine
Then the boss getting it in the gonads, that was mean

Laughing at your own jokes, some say, is wrong
I’m guilty; chuckling in chat rooms saying I wear a pink thong
Yet, most are aware that I love to kid
And know that I never did

I bet, like me, you get funny emails every day
Receiving one-liners and more to make your tummy sway
Yes, some should be censored and rated ‘X’
I confess I don’t open the pics, but I do the text

I thank The Lord every day for his creations
And humor is in the Top Ten of His donations
So I love giving to others a poem or a story
I sure hope He is laughing and gets the glory

I thought about including my email address
To solicit jokes, but rejected that; hee hee, I confess
Why did the chicken cross the road?
It was an expressway and she wanted to prove to the other cluck clucks that she was bold

CELEBRATION SHOWER

CELEBRATION SHOWER

Roger A. Davis

Football Bowl Game watchers, I have a bone to pick
Dumping of the Gatorade is starting to make me sick
The networks must think it is worthy of camera time
So here is a ‘Does anybody feel like me?’ rhyme

Coach on the players’ shoulders, please carry
This would make me more merry
Do away with midfield handshake
Coaches’ ‘Good Game’ is such a fake

In college, the cooler baptism is lame
Especially in a blowout game
More like teenage pranks
Than ‘Hey, Coach, thanks’

Even in the NFL, it takes place
Madden does a play-by-play of it, that’s a sad case
More camera attention to cheerleaders, if you may
It would make a better Sunday

Email the networks, you armchair quarterbacks
And we couch defense linebackers will send mail sacks
To get a switch in camera priority
TV fans should have the ultimate authority

KANSAS TOWNS SOUNDS

KANSAS TOWNS SOUNDS

Roger A. Davis

State capital is Topeka
Horse racing capital: Eureka
Where I grew up: Attica
We had a fishing lease near Zenda

Salt Mine Museum in Hutchinson
Martina McBride’s birthplace: Sharon
County Seats: Hugoton, Holton, McPherson
A town near where I bought two bison: Canton

Many small towns like Chautauqua
Town near grandparents’ ranch: Kiowa
Baseball Hall of Famer, Joe Tinker, lived in Muscotah
Air capital and the largest city: Wichita

Chief White Hair’s village: Oswego
Where Molly, my bulldog, lives now: Geneseo
Headquarters for corporations: De Soto
Other small bergs: Mankato, Paxico and Tyro

Liberal, of pancake fame, and unincorporated Wayne
Harrah’s backed out of Mulvane
Town named for Civil War Union general and U.S. Senator, James H.: Lane
Bartlett Arboretum, a Dixie Chicks connection in Belle Plaine

Cawker, Junction and Arkansas: many a last name city
But this poem is getting long, so I’m going to take pity
I challenge you to write about your state and be witty
Just one more: My home, Marquette, ends with an “E”

CHRONIC AFFLICTIONS

CHRONIC AFFLICTIONS

Roger A. Davis

This month’s flavor: Sinus Infection
At least it’s not transplant rejection
I shouldn’t joke this subject around
Chronic afflictions can be serious ground

An ongoing medical snafu
Can end up with your family sitting in a funeral pew
Those of us who suffer just want relief
Drugs help, is our belief

Yet for many, it’s day by day
And for some, it’s a hospice terminal stay
Foxhole experiences where we learn to pray
At best, a hospital stay, eating from a food tray

This is kind of a downer rhyme
There’s not much humor in our illness time
If good health is restored
Praise and give thanks to The Lord

Though, if it’s a lifelong thing
Like blindness or loss of hearing
Many have overcome their curse
And have claimed it to be a blessing, not perverse

So count your blessings each day
Because somebody is in a worse way
This life is preparation for the life to come
And afflictions are added to your good character sum

ROLLS REVIEW

ROLLS REVIEW

Roger A. Davis

I guess we should start with a drum roll
A Rolls Royce would put us all in a debt hole
Did your teacher take the roll call?
At present, I like rolling a bowling ball

Cinnamon, egg and lobster rolls are food
And Tootsie Roll Pops are so go-o-o-d!
I had a red one the other day with wrapper blue
After I ate it, I wondered if it was new

The roller rink was our teenage hangout
Girl’s choice caused many a boy to pout
Inline roller skates are the thing
Location: Everywhere for free skating

Hair rollers, a big part of my life
Used by Mom, sisters and wife
All sizes, all round, I think
Sometimes rolled so tight, they could barely blink

I dig rock ‘n roll music, as you know
Still can clap and tap my toe
Favorite band: The rubber one around my bankroll
But it is so small, monthly bills have taken their toll

I will end this on a roll of toilet paper
Using the last and not replacing, an arrestable caper?
Usually by a member of the family
Could be us, so we ask for clemency

BAD BREATH

BAD BREATH

Roger A. Davis

The drive-up bank teller, she made a comment
‘Have you ever tried Pepsodent?’
I cupped my hand, smelled and said
‘I must’ve eaten something dead’

I have a friend who snacks on onions raw
And follows with cold coffee through a straw
A remedy for odor, don’t know if this is the case
I avoid encounters face-to-face

Some people in public smell their armpits
On seeing this, I have laughing fits
They may be confused of aroma whereabouts
Mouth, pits, etc., they must have doubts

Floss, brush and toothpick
After meals, this does the trick
If everyone followed this advice
Most of us would have to do it thrice

There are some who do not practice dental hygiene
And if you’re a social animal, this is mean
To add to the human race such offense
Wonder if anyone has sued for recompense?

Well, I wrote another poem that’s down to earth
Hope you got some enjoyment and mirth
I do my banking by Internet now
To avoid the bank teller’s scowl

TOM HANKS, "THANKS"

TOM HANKS, “THANKS”

Roger A. Davis

Ron Howard’s ‘SPLASH’
Started Tom’s big acquirement of cash
Before that, a two-season sitcom
‘BOSOM BUDDIES’ Kip Wilson played by Tom

‘NOTHING IN COMMON’ with Jackie Gleason
Proved he could do a serious role within reason
Next in 1986 ‘THE MONEY PIT’
A comedy with a raccoon, I liked it

Now Tom has had flops
And many box office tops
A child turned into a man in ‘BIG’
Classic scene, the giant keyboard jig

One of my top favorites is ‘TURNER AND HOOCH’
With a scene-stealing Douge de Bordeaux pooch
I had a sign made ‘BEWARE OF DROOL’
For my dog, because the movie was so cool

Followed by 3 strikeouts to many a critic’s moan
Then another favorite, ‘A LEAGUE OF THEIR OWN’
A homerun with ‘SLEEPLESS IN SEATTLE’
Highlighted by Meg Ryan’s willpower battle

‘PHILADELPHIA’ – Oscar for an AIDS victim actor
Springsteen’s song was a major appreciation factor
‘FORREST GUMP’ and Lieutenant Dan
This made the world a Tom Hanks fan

Back to back Academy Awards, plus five
Didn’t you love that shrimp boat dive?
Pretty savvy with an IQ of 75
A great runner helping those men survive

‘APOLLO 13’ with an all-star cast
The drama starts with a service module blast
Odyssey is their method of escape
All ends well at the Cape

‘THAT THING YOU DO,’ he produced and directed
I recommend it to be DVD inspected
D-Day, men shootin’ and dyin’
Movie: ‘SAVING PRIVATE RYAN’

The remake, ‘YOU'VE GOT MAIL’
A corporate bully and an email tale
Favorite scene: Tom’s flower delivery
Meg in a robe with a cold and all shivery
Yet, the meeting in the park tops that
Because Mr. Fox turns out not to be a rat

“Dead man walking,” in ‘THE GREEN MILE’ is said
John Coffey heals and resurrects a mouse from the dead
In ‘CAST AWAY’ a FedEx plane goes down
All but Chuck Norland drown

Marooned with Wilson and a partial crapper
Which enables the island escape chapter
But the soccer ball is lost at sea
FedEx, what was your advertising fee?

This long poetic tribute rendition
Is ending with ‘ROAD TO PERDITION’
Tom, an anti-hero hit man
Betrayed by his mob clan

So many nominations, awards and accolades
Tom Hanks, for me, is the Ace of Spades
Of all the acting stars in the deck
On a ballot for Best Actor Ever, Tom gets my check

ROGER'S CHOICE AWARDS

ROGER'S CHOICE AWARDS

Roger A. Davis

For TV Ad: The Sonic married couple No.1
TV Sitcom: King of Queens; watching is such fun
Poetry Editor: Marge G.
She is so good to me

Dog: So many nominations
Better skip; might hurt some relations
Cat: Tomichi and Gregory are a tie
Movie: ‘You’ve Got Mail’; be ready to sob and sigh

Website: Wikipedia is a treat
Yet, EdenPrairieProse is hard to beat
Time of Day: Morning on awake
Thank The Lord for goodness sake

Antique: Tiffany-like Dutch scene pole lamp by my PC
Art: Fabric picture of Cheyenne Village by my sister Connie
Musical Instrument: The Violin
TV Dog: Not Lassie, but Rin Tin Tin

Food: To choose one is a hard pick
First five letters pronounce chick
Beverage: Pepsi, caffeine free
Plant: Aspen Tree

Written for those who email for favorites list
Weather: Summer day with a cool mist
Sports Team: K.U. Basketball
Well, folks, duh duh that’s all

STROLLING THROUGH TIME

STROLLING THROUGH TIME

Julie Peterson

Time passes,
But what is the passing of time?
At times it seems to trudge across a field,
Unsure of its footing.
At times it seems to spring around the track,
With no time to lose.
It stops
To let
Things
Rest
Where
They
Are.
Just for those simple moments of life.
And then it strolls past impatient thoughts,
Waving, and making small talk.
When time needs to speed up
It slows down.
When time needs to slow down
It speeds up.
The elaborate tapestry of life
Is woven by the time in which
It takes to perform each simple
Little deed.
And yet time,
Is taken for granted

Written by Roger's Aunt Donna's teenage granddaughter

LEFTOVER LOVE

LEFTOVER LOVE

Roger A. Davis

It may start with a familiar song
That brings back memories so strong
I cannot discern the tears
Some sadness and thankfulness for those years
Yet, regrets are in the mixture
These leftovers are an ongoing fixture

Leftover love without Peggy as my sounding board
In part, causes some discord
Yet, I direct it to the heavens above
In exchange for His first-hand love
Yes, I still sob and sigh
But I no longer want to die

Every day is a fresh start
I enjoy taking part
By word and voice, sharing my heart
And absorbing others’ biographies
“God, help me be better at this, please”
To serve with love, putting others at ease

Neil Diamond’s "Hello Again" is to blame
It reheated my love’s flame
And the tears came
Knowing I will get to speak the same
"Hello, again, my best friend
I love you with a love that will never end"

DAVIS HOMES OF CHRISTMASES PAST

DAVIS HOMES OF CHRISTMASES PAST

Roger A. Davis

This story spans the writers’ lifetime
My hope is for all of you to enjoy this rhyme
Because it will overlap our family generations
And highlight our Christmas celebrations

We will start at the Attica farm of Mama and Papa Grace
Where grandkids made popcorn and cranberry lace
Glorious meals that started with prayer said
There was always plenty, we went home well-fed

Then later, Harper became the place for our holiday meet
Their new home was a great retreat
I remember Dad breaking the egg
And then family members laughing and pulling his leg

Goddard, then Howard was next on Pop's career
The distance caused the family many a tear
A great big home with an upstairs sleeping porch
Glassed in; good for winter, not summer - it would scorch

Papa Grace's well-deserved retirement came
Moved to Lindsborg of Little Sweden fame
Once again settled in with their families nearby
Easy now to stop in and say hi

Another big home for many overnighters to stay
And, yes, once again to host Christmas Day
Just twenty miles from our folks at the Eden Prairie School
Which Dad and Pop made into a home with many a tool

In their twilight years, Mama and Papa Grace moved to Pratt
Lived where Vicki and Rick had lived at
Another special place that has had good fellowship
And over the years, an occasional holiday nap and nip

Hardtner, Fairview, and Attica - homes of our childhood
The new home in Attica that Pop and Dad built, they were good
A big picture window were Mom displayed a sad looking tree
I always thought she bought them because she felt pity

One Indian summer Christmas Day
I went out with two holstered fanner fifties to play
For holidays, we went to the Davis farm or the Cook's
And Attica is where I became an avid reader of books

To Salina on Highland Drive, we moved my junior year
I had a lot of starting-over fear
Then it was to the schoolhouse home near Marquette
Remember Mama Cook's mink stole? A bed for our German shepherd pet

Peggy's favorite time was Christmas and Colorado
Off shopping for decorations we would go
Four trees at home some years she would do
She loved giving decorations and not just a few

Rick and Vicki lived on a farm west of Marquette
Two-story, three children and Maggie the pet
I remember their dining room/pool table with holiday meal
Vicki has a talent to make food have great appeal

Then Dad and Rick, career-wise, went northeast
Once, in their country home near Netawaka, we had a Christmas feast
Then B.O.M.O. they founded in Pratt
The place to buy a travel trailer at

Davis children have had homes in other towns
Usually in places to go for their graduating gowns
Now we are spread out multi-state
Yet, it is to Pratt this day we gravitate

The past has become present this Christmas of 2008
And all the families have gathered; this is truly great
Thanks again, Vicki and Rick, for being the gracious hostess and host
May this poem wish you all a Merry Christmas and be a Happy New Year toast

COLD AND FLU BUG TIME

COLD AND FLU BUG TIME

Roger A. Davis

They say, for the cold bug
There is no curing drug
They give a flu shot
I chose, though no fear of needles, 'Not'

I’m on my 9th cold this season
And this intestinal flu is beyond reason
Not the aching muscle and upset tummy kind
No, all the action is in my behind

I found a remedy for my bunghole
Chili, crackers, cheese and sour cream casserole
It may not work for you
But it sure did stop my flu

For cold, some say Vitamin C
There is a strong lobby for whiskey
Starve a cold, feed a fever
You won’t find me doing either

For a cold, I like to moan
Better sharing your misery by phone
Too much nose blowing doesn’t relieve
If at home, just use your sleeve

Now, these verses were messy and crude
I apologize if I was rude
Gesundheit and God Bless
If you, too, are sneezing and are a mess

MY FAVORITE TEACHER

MY FAVORITE TEACHER

Roger A. Davis

She lives on the Western Plains
Educating those children’s brains
She grew up on her parents’ farm
And became a pretty schoolmarm

She is a humble person, not fancy
Her first name is Nancy
Also my nephew Jared’s wife
In their courtship and marriage, nary a strife

Nancy teaches the 4th grade this year
I wonder if all the girls think she is a dear
Though she is small, I’ll bet she can exact some fear
But also be on your side for a shed tear

Two of my family members are called 'Professor'
And they should know my love for them is no lesser
Yet, Nancy is my favorite teacher on the Martin tree
Because she is a uniting disciple of The Almighty

She teaches by example in her manner each day
Exerting control in a positive way
She is fun to be around and enters in
Being her student and/or friend is a win-win

Nancy, this is your Christmas gift rhyme
Written for you at this holiday time
May your and Jared’s love grow in His grace
Knowing in 2009, you will be reflecting His face

RURAL RUCKUS

RURAL RUCKUS

Roger A. Davis

Country living can be tough
Snow and ice storms are rough
Power went off, 6 inches of snow
No blizzard, it didn’t blow

Dallas, my Good Samaritan neighbor
4 wheeler with blade and did the labor
Cleaned the sidewalks and driveway
He never takes any pay

Nephew Adam brought me food and my mail
He’s always got my back without fail
If the power is off into the night
To a motel, I have to take flight

Reason: I use a bi-pap machine for sleep
Put it in 4 wheel drive when the snow is deep
Heat in the school is now propane
So if it is daytime, I can remain

Freezing of the rural waterline happened one time
And fixing that cost many a dime
But it took place outside under the school
To repair, a backhoe was the needed tool

Septic tank problems can also occur
And if it happens in winter, Brrrr!
Don’t dump into the sink cold grease
Your chances of troubles will increase

Yet taking each event and its possibility
I still prefer living in Eden Prairie country
They say ‘What doesn’t kill you makes you strong’
I believe in this saying, they didn’t get it wrong

THE ART OF TIPPING

THE ART OF TIPPING

Roger A. Davis

Simply said, "Attitude of Gratitude"
Those who don’t are rude
We are talking gratuities
You know, appreciation fees
It can be for service at lunch
Or for the delivery of flowers in a bunch

Wages of the server are mostly in your tip
Add 15 or 20 percent, not zip
If the service is not up to satisfaction
Use constructive criticism, not subtraction
They may be having a bad day
You’ve been there; don’t dock their pay

For some services, the tip is included in the bill
Like getting an oil fill
Or a large party meal
The tip is a done deal
Why am I bothering you with this appeal?
My concern for the servers is real

Valet, bellhops and food servers have it rough
They have to put up with all kinds of stuff
Spilled drinks, heavy luggage, impatient clientele
Please be generous; don’t make their lives hell
So, Happy New Year to my Santa’s Helpers in 2009
And may all your customers treat you fine