The exercise:
Write two haiku about: rebirth.
As 2019 draws to a close, I just wanted to take the chance to look back on the yearlong poems that Greg and I wrote over the course of this year's Saturdays.
Overall I'm pleased with the results. Number one: I actually stuck with it for the whole year. Not bad for something I more or less decided to do on the spur of the moment. Number two? My poem told a reasonably coherent story that came to a reasonably satisfying ending. And I only had a few weeks throughout the year where I was seriously concerned about whether or not that would happen.
Honestly, I didn't have an idea for the ending until Charlie showed up on June 29th, and that only solidified on August 3rd. I'm quite happy that I managed to steer the story home from there.
And I would be terribly remiss if I didn't give Greg top marks and all the credit for the work he did this year. While I certainly tried to make the weekly prompts general enough for him to work with, he was at a clear disadvantage all the way. That he incorporated each prompt into his tale so well and finished the year with such an excellent poem is indicative of his ability as a poet and storyteller.
Now, what shall next year have in store for us in the yearlong category?
You'll see soon enough.
But I will say that I put the theme into a note on my phone three years ago, so I'm excited to finally get to make use of it.
But first I need to finish dealing with this whole 'moving' thing.
Monday December 30th, 2019
The exercise:
Write about: the inspection.
Did the pre-move in inspection with the property manager this morning. So now we have keys to the new place, and I moved a few things in as well while I was there (mostly into the garage).
The big move is Friday, but we'll make another trip or two up there before then to move a few more things in and to start getting settled in.
Woo.
... and breathe.
Write about: the inspection.
Did the pre-move in inspection with the property manager this morning. So now we have keys to the new place, and I moved a few things in as well while I was there (mostly into the garage).
The big move is Friday, but we'll make another trip or two up there before then to move a few more things in and to start getting settled in.
Woo.
... and breathe.
Saturday December 28th, 2019
The exercise:
Write a four line poem about: a conclusion.
Sorry this is a bit late. Had to compile everything here. Also linked on the left under Yearlong Prompts.
I'll have some thoughts to share on this ridiculous thing later. For now though, here's the final entry.
Mine:
Now Big Buddy roams the streets, untroubled by
Thoughts of what it might deserve,
Instead entirely focused on its search
For a new Master to serve...
Write a four line poem about: a conclusion.
Sorry this is a bit late. Had to compile everything here. Also linked on the left under Yearlong Prompts.
I'll have some thoughts to share on this ridiculous thing later. For now though, here's the final entry.
Mine:
Now Big Buddy roams the streets, untroubled by
Thoughts of what it might deserve,
Instead entirely focused on its search
For a new Master to serve...
Thursday December 26th, 2019
The exercise:
Write about something that is: bottled.
Max was up at 4:30 yesterday morning, bouncing off the walls in his excitement about what he'd discovered in his stocking, not to mention that Santa not only ate the cookies he left out, but also left him a jar of salted nuts in return (a last minute decision that I do not regret).
And yet somehow he was still going full blast until around 9 last night.
Bottle that energy up and I would pay a lot of money for it.
Write about something that is: bottled.
Max was up at 4:30 yesterday morning, bouncing off the walls in his excitement about what he'd discovered in his stocking, not to mention that Santa not only ate the cookies he left out, but also left him a jar of salted nuts in return (a last minute decision that I do not regret).
And yet somehow he was still going full blast until around 9 last night.
Bottle that energy up and I would pay a lot of money for it.
Wednesday December 25th, 2019
The exercise:
Merry Christmas to all, and to all a happy and healthy holiday season.
Write about: bells.
Merry Christmas to all, and to all a happy and healthy holiday season.
Write about: bells.
Sunday December 22nd, 2019
The exercise:
Time for our final revisitation of the year. Let's hit up Empires one last time.
With the move imminent, I'm going to try to schedule some posts for the next little while. Seeing as I'm always late to add to the revisits, now seems as good a time as any.
I will try to pop in with any news or updates though. And if I somehow manage to add to Empires as well... then you can assume things are going surprisingly smoothly.
... or that my procrastination abilities are as strong as they've ever been.
Time for our final revisitation of the year. Let's hit up Empires one last time.
With the move imminent, I'm going to try to schedule some posts for the next little while. Seeing as I'm always late to add to the revisits, now seems as good a time as any.
I will try to pop in with any news or updates though. And if I somehow manage to add to Empires as well... then you can assume things are going surprisingly smoothly.
... or that my procrastination abilities are as strong as they've ever been.
Saturday December 21st, 2019
The exercise:
Write a four line poem about: alone.
Only one more entry and then the epic yearlong four line poem journey of 2019 comes to a close. Hard to believe.
Mine:
Buddy flipped the bed over, found the only
Master it had ever known
Had breathed his last, paused, then rolled slowly away,
Unutterably alone.
Write a four line poem about: alone.
Only one more entry and then the epic yearlong four line poem journey of 2019 comes to a close. Hard to believe.
Mine:
Buddy flipped the bed over, found the only
Master it had ever known
Had breathed his last, paused, then rolled slowly away,
Unutterably alone.
Friday December 20th, 2019
The exercise:
Write four lines of prose about: taking a break.
Today was my last day of work until January 6th. Going to do a dump run tomorrow, take time to have a proper Christmas, and then deal with the move. It'll be nice to have some time and space to do it all.
Write four lines of prose about: taking a break.
Today was my last day of work until January 6th. Going to do a dump run tomorrow, take time to have a proper Christmas, and then deal with the move. It'll be nice to have some time and space to do it all.
Thursday December 19th, 2019
The exercise:
Write about: dashing through the snow.
We got ourselves a big dumping of the white stuff this evening. But they're calling for five degrees and rain tomorrow, so it won't be around for long.
Write about: dashing through the snow.
We got ourselves a big dumping of the white stuff this evening. But they're calling for five degrees and rain tomorrow, so it won't be around for long.
Tuesday December 17th, 2019
The exercise:
Write two haiku about: the elf on the shelf.
This is the first year we've done this with the boys, and it is only because their cousins do it. At this point in the month I am finding it more and more difficult to come up with new places to put the stupid thing.
Add that to the list of reasons we need a bigger home.
Write two haiku about: the elf on the shelf.
This is the first year we've done this with the boys, and it is only because their cousins do it. At this point in the month I am finding it more and more difficult to come up with new places to put the stupid thing.
Add that to the list of reasons we need a bigger home.
Sunday December 15th, 2019
The exercise:
Write about: clutter.
We're in the midst of ridding ourselves of as much clutter as possible ahead of the move. This was a generally successful weekend on that front.
Write about: clutter.
We're in the midst of ridding ourselves of as much clutter as possible ahead of the move. This was a generally successful weekend on that front.
Saturday December 14th, 2019
The exercise:
Write a four line poem about: tumbling.
I have a plan for my final two entries. We'll see how they actually turn out.
Mine:
Buddy's shot caught Charlie in the back and sent
Him tumbling through the air
And out the window to the ground below, thus
Ending the sordid affair
Write a four line poem about: tumbling.
I have a plan for my final two entries. We'll see how they actually turn out.
Mine:
Buddy's shot caught Charlie in the back and sent
Him tumbling through the air
And out the window to the ground below, thus
Ending the sordid affair
Friday December 13th, 2019
The exercise:
Write four lines of prose about something or someone that is: unlucky.
Write four lines of prose about something or someone that is: unlucky.
Thursday December 12th, 2019
The exercise:
Write about: moving on up.
... the valley, in our case. As of January 1st (or December 31st, or January 2nd or 3rd... depending when we can get movers) we shall be residents of Oliver.
After looking for over a year, we've finally found a bigger space to rent in a better location for all that we do and all that we are. My commute will go up a bit, but Max will be closer to Learning Centre and his friends, Kat will be closer to Penticton and her friends, and we'll have plenty of room for everybody.
We're going from two bedrooms and one bathroom in a space we outgrew the second Miles was born, to three bedrooms and two bathrooms. Plus a playroom, a bigger kitchen with plenty of counter space and cupboards, and a big backyard. Not as big as a farm, obviously, but it'll get the job done. The boys will share one of the bedrooms, which means we'll actually have a guestroom for the first time since Max was born.
Very exciting.
Now all we have to do is get us and our stuff there.
Write about: moving on up.
... the valley, in our case. As of January 1st (or December 31st, or January 2nd or 3rd... depending when we can get movers) we shall be residents of Oliver.
After looking for over a year, we've finally found a bigger space to rent in a better location for all that we do and all that we are. My commute will go up a bit, but Max will be closer to Learning Centre and his friends, Kat will be closer to Penticton and her friends, and we'll have plenty of room for everybody.
We're going from two bedrooms and one bathroom in a space we outgrew the second Miles was born, to three bedrooms and two bathrooms. Plus a playroom, a bigger kitchen with plenty of counter space and cupboards, and a big backyard. Not as big as a farm, obviously, but it'll get the job done. The boys will share one of the bedrooms, which means we'll actually have a guestroom for the first time since Max was born.
Very exciting.
Now all we have to do is get us and our stuff there.
Saturday December 7th, 2019
The exercise:
Write a four line poem about: open.
Only three stanzas left after this one, believe it or not.
I choose not, by the way.
Mine:
Charlie unlocked the door with a shotgun blast
And entered with a snigger.
He stepped onto the middle of the bed, aimed
Straight down and pulled the trigger.
Write a four line poem about: open.
Only three stanzas left after this one, believe it or not.
I choose not, by the way.
Mine:
Charlie unlocked the door with a shotgun blast
And entered with a snigger.
He stepped onto the middle of the bed, aimed
Straight down and pulled the trigger.
Saturday November 30th, 2019
The exercise:
Write a four line poem about something that is: caught.
Today was a better day. Not a big hurdle to clear, but I'm happy we did.
Mine:
Big Buddy rolled slowly through the hideout's halls,
Quite certain of who he sought.
For none but Charlie could have followed him there,
And this time he would be caught.
Write a four line poem about something that is: caught.
Today was a better day. Not a big hurdle to clear, but I'm happy we did.
Mine:
Big Buddy rolled slowly through the hideout's halls,
Quite certain of who he sought.
For none but Charlie could have followed him there,
And this time he would be caught.
Friday November 29th, 2019
The exercise:
Write four lines of prose about: the plight.
Today... was not a significant improvement on yesterday. Because Kat and Max got hit with the bug late morning.
Hopefully this will be the end of it, at least, now that we've all had it. Fingers crossed tomorrow will be a quiet (relatively speaking) and relaxing (see previous parentheses) day of recovery for all.
Write four lines of prose about: the plight.
Today... was not a significant improvement on yesterday. Because Kat and Max got hit with the bug late morning.
Hopefully this will be the end of it, at least, now that we've all had it. Fingers crossed tomorrow will be a quiet (relatively speaking) and relaxing (see previous parentheses) day of recovery for all.
Thursday November 28th, 2019
The exercise:
Write about something that is: rough.
Rough night last night. Miles kept waking up to throw up for the first three hours after he fell asleep, then I woke up in the middle of the night with whatever he had.
So I spent today mostly not doing anything whatsoever. Took until around 9pm to finish the mug of tea I made myself when I got out of bed. Had my first bite of food just after 10pm.
And then, obviously, fell asleep on the couch and am only now posting this in the middle of the night.
Good times!
I'm taking it as a good sign that Miles was basically fine today. Hoping that will be me tomorrow.
Write about something that is: rough.
Rough night last night. Miles kept waking up to throw up for the first three hours after he fell asleep, then I woke up in the middle of the night with whatever he had.
So I spent today mostly not doing anything whatsoever. Took until around 9pm to finish the mug of tea I made myself when I got out of bed. Had my first bite of food just after 10pm.
And then, obviously, fell asleep on the couch and am only now posting this in the middle of the night.
Good times!
I'm taking it as a good sign that Miles was basically fine today. Hoping that will be me tomorrow.
Wednesday November 27th, 2019
The exercise:
Write about a: confirmation.
Day late follow up to Monday's prompt, because I didn't want to do this one as haiku.
Write about a: confirmation.
Day late follow up to Monday's prompt, because I didn't want to do this one as haiku.
Monday November 25th, 2019
The exercise:
Write about something or someone that has been: discredited.
Write about something or someone that has been: discredited.
Sunday November 24th, 2019
The exercise:
I've been caught up on comments for long enough now.
Let us have one last visit to The Dream Kingdom.
I've been caught up on comments for long enough now.
Let us have one last visit to The Dream Kingdom.
Saturday November 23rd, 2019
The exercise:
Write a four line poem about: confessions.
Blimey, only five stanzas left after this one... I should really plot the rest of this thing out.
Mine:
Hid beneath his bed The Master wrote quickly,
Leaving him no room for thought.
He laid bare all of his sins, seeking Mercy
For the havoc he had wrought.
Write a four line poem about: confessions.
Blimey, only five stanzas left after this one... I should really plot the rest of this thing out.
Mine:
Hid beneath his bed The Master wrote quickly,
Leaving him no room for thought.
He laid bare all of his sins, seeking Mercy
For the havoc he had wrought.
Friday November 22nd, 2019
The exercise:
Write four lines of prose about something or someone that has been: cornered.
Write four lines of prose about something or someone that has been: cornered.
Sunday November 17th, 2019
The exercise:
Write something that has to do with: one on one.
With Kat going out Thursday and Friday evening, and me being out last night, tonight was the first time since Wednesday that we were both home to get the boys to bed.
Having one parent for each child was significantly more manageable than either of us having to get both to bed on our own. We've done it occasionally before, but three nights in a row? We've not been 'going out in the evening' people in a long time.
But perhaps, now that we've got a 7 and 3.5 year old, we're moving toward being those sorts of people again.
Write something that has to do with: one on one.
With Kat going out Thursday and Friday evening, and me being out last night, tonight was the first time since Wednesday that we were both home to get the boys to bed.
Having one parent for each child was significantly more manageable than either of us having to get both to bed on our own. We've done it occasionally before, but three nights in a row? We've not been 'going out in the evening' people in a long time.
But perhaps, now that we've got a 7 and 3.5 year old, we're moving toward being those sorts of people again.
Saturday November 16th, 2019
The exercise:
Write a four line poem about: missing.
Mine:
Charlie swore softly and reloaded his gun,
For in the darkness he'd missed.
Now The Master had retreated to his room,
Where he worked on a new list.
Write a four line poem about: missing.
Mine:
Charlie swore softly and reloaded his gun,
For in the darkness he'd missed.
Now The Master had retreated to his room,
Where he worked on a new list.
Saturday November 9th, 2019
The exercise:
Write a four line poem about: moments.
Mine:
Buddy stood over its offspring feeling... sad?
What did I fail to provide?
Though the moment was cut short by the sound of
Gunshots coming from inside.
Write a four line poem about: moments.
Mine:
Buddy stood over its offspring feeling... sad?
What did I fail to provide?
Though the moment was cut short by the sound of
Gunshots coming from inside.
Thursday November 7th, 2019
The exercise:
Write something which has to do with the number: seven.
Mostly because Max turned seven today, on the seventh day of the month.
... actually, only because of that.
He had a good day with family. We're doing a party at the bowling alley with some of his friends in a couple days as well.
Write something which has to do with the number: seven.
Mostly because Max turned seven today, on the seventh day of the month.
... actually, only because of that.
He had a good day with family. We're doing a party at the bowling alley with some of his friends in a couple days as well.
Saturday November 2nd, 2019
The exercise:
Write a four line poem about: the leak.
Mine:
Bucky collapsed to the ground, ten bullet holes
Leaking black oil and grey steam.
Junior went next, its lights dimming before it
Even had a chance to scream.
Write a four line poem about: the leak.
Mine:
Bucky collapsed to the ground, ten bullet holes
Leaking black oil and grey steam.
Junior went next, its lights dimming before it
Even had a chance to scream.
Friday November 1st, 2019
The exercise:
Write four lines of prose about: coexisting.
Inspired by Miles noticing at bedtime tonight that there were foxes on his pants and a penguin on his shirt (laundry day means the likelihood of matching top and bottom is very low).
Oh, yes, Halloween picture:
Miles as Batman, Max as a ninja. They had fun, obviously.
Write four lines of prose about: coexisting.
Inspired by Miles noticing at bedtime tonight that there were foxes on his pants and a penguin on his shirt (laundry day means the likelihood of matching top and bottom is very low).
Oh, yes, Halloween picture:
Miles as Batman, Max as a ninja. They had fun, obviously.
Thursday October 31st, 2019
The exercise:
Write about: the monster within.
Happy Halloween! I shall share pictures of the boys' costumes tomorrow.
Write about: the monster within.
Happy Halloween! I shall share pictures of the boys' costumes tomorrow.
Tuesday October 29th, 2019
The exercise:
Write two Halloween haiku.
Eh, why not...
Mine:
Cherubic faces
ask: Trick, or treat? Only fools
select the former.
* * *
Ghosts come to my door
all night; at least the neighbours
can see these ones too...
Write two Halloween haiku.
Eh, why not...
Mine:
Cherubic faces
ask: Trick, or treat? Only fools
select the former.
* * *
Ghosts come to my door
all night; at least the neighbours
can see these ones too...
Saturday October 26th, 2019
The exercise:
Write a four line poem about: gathering.
Between Miles' cold getting much worse overnight and a howling wind blowing for 90% of the day, today did not go as planned.
But Kat still made pancakes for breakfast, we had homemade pizza for dinner, and I made oven roasted pears for dessert. So, clearly, turning forty-young was not all bad.
Mine:
The Master heard the shots ring out down below,
Followed by metallic pings,
And with hands made clumsy by panic and sweat,
Began gathering his things
Write a four line poem about: gathering.
Between Miles' cold getting much worse overnight and a howling wind blowing for 90% of the day, today did not go as planned.
But Kat still made pancakes for breakfast, we had homemade pizza for dinner, and I made oven roasted pears for dessert. So, clearly, turning forty-young was not all bad.
Mine:
The Master heard the shots ring out down below,
Followed by metallic pings,
And with hands made clumsy by panic and sweat,
Began gathering his things
Friday October 25th, 2019
The exercise:
Write four lines of prose about: celebrations.
Work, at my request, got cinnamon buns from the bakery for my (one day early) birthday celebration this morning. It was yummy.
Looking forward to going out for dinner tomorrow night with Kat, and a family walk in the morning.
Write four lines of prose about: celebrations.
Work, at my request, got cinnamon buns from the bakery for my (one day early) birthday celebration this morning. It was yummy.
Looking forward to going out for dinner tomorrow night with Kat, and a family walk in the morning.
Wednesday October 23rd, 2019
The exercise:
Now that I've managed to reach October in my attempt to catch up on comments, we should probably revisit something, huh?
Looks like it's House of Mercy's turn for round two.
Now that I've managed to reach October in my attempt to catch up on comments, we should probably revisit something, huh?
Looks like it's House of Mercy's turn for round two.
Monday October 21st, 2019
The exercise:
Write about: being in the minority.
Looks like Trudeau's Liberals remain in charge after election day, but they are no longer in the majority. I'm okay with this.
Mostly because thank everything that is good in the world the Conservatives did not win.
Write about: being in the minority.
Looks like Trudeau's Liberals remain in charge after election day, but they are no longer in the majority. I'm okay with this.
Mostly because thank everything that is good in the world the Conservatives did not win.
Saturday October 19th, 2019
The exercise:
Write a four line poem about someone who is: jaded.
Just ten stanzas to go after this one in this yearlong journey.
Mine:
Charlie thought he had seen it all before, heard
Every song that's been sung;
But even he was caught off guard when Buddy
Opened fire on its young.
Write a four line poem about someone who is: jaded.
Just ten stanzas to go after this one in this yearlong journey.
Mine:
Charlie thought he had seen it all before, heard
Every song that's been sung;
But even he was caught off guard when Buddy
Opened fire on its young.
Wednesday October 16th, 2019
The exercise:
Write about: insurance.
As promised yesterday, an explanation.
Mine:
So way back in March of 2010 we bought our 2006 Saturn Ion. Man, I look young in that picture.
Anyway.
Our Saturn has served us well over the years. It was our only car until we bought the Pontiac Montana in May of 2017. Which means it was our car when we got married, when first Max and then Miles were born. It got me through a pretty nasty accident a month before previously mentioned wedding.
But it's been slowly but surely nearing the end of its lifespan. It's broken down a couple times, once without the reason ever being determined. It's lost a couple hubcaps over the years. The stereo has been hit and miss for the last year or so (sometimes it stops working, other times the volume knob does not... function as expected).
Also: it's grey. We didn't want a grey car to begin with, but the price was right and we couldn't afford to be picky. But I was getting very, very tired of having a grey car.
So I've been keeping an eye out for a new ride, pretty much since I passed probation in July. Recently I had my eye on a marine blue 2017 Hyundai Elantra. It was out of my price range but the price went down once, then again... if it went down a third time I was planning on getting in touch with the dealership.
But somebody else decided two price drops was enough, and so it disappeared off their site.
Which was fine. Good, if I'm being honest. It was more car than I needed.
Shortly after that, however, a new contender entered the arena. Same dealership in Penticton, handily enough. So I emailed them to get a couple questions answered, then spent a week going back and forth via email trying to get the price I wanted. They dropped the sticker price by a bit, eventually agreed to waive all the extra fees (I'm sorry, but I ain't paying $499 for no cash grab nonsense), and... pointed out that they had the best price for the car I was looking at. In all of BC.
I went in on Saturday to take it for a test drive and figure out what they'd give me for the Saturn. I liked the drive, they gave me more than I was expecting for the trade in, and... now I'm the proud owner of this:
That's a 2018 Kia Rio. White. Would have preferred blue or red, but white is a sight better than grey. The price was right for a car this new, the mileage was what I wanted, and it has some nice features (already enjoying the heated steering wheel). I expect it will serve me well for many years to come.
So, yes, her name is Betty. As in Betty White. The name came to me at the dealership while I was waiting for them to finish washing and cleaning her. Because I am a creative person.
Oh, today's prompt. I felt like I did a lot of research on this purchase. Looked at a lot of different options. Negotiated hard on the price and the waiving of the fees.
The thing I forgot to think about? Car insurance. Turns out, they charge quite a bit more to insure a 2018 vehicle than a 2006 vehicle. Who'd a thunk it.
Anyway. Minor bump in the road. I am very happy with my purchase. The boys think it's pretty cool too. Kat is insisting that I let her drive it occasionally.
I told her I'm open to negotiations.
Write about: insurance.
As promised yesterday, an explanation.
Mine:
So way back in March of 2010 we bought our 2006 Saturn Ion. Man, I look young in that picture.
Anyway.
Our Saturn has served us well over the years. It was our only car until we bought the Pontiac Montana in May of 2017. Which means it was our car when we got married, when first Max and then Miles were born. It got me through a pretty nasty accident a month before previously mentioned wedding.
But it's been slowly but surely nearing the end of its lifespan. It's broken down a couple times, once without the reason ever being determined. It's lost a couple hubcaps over the years. The stereo has been hit and miss for the last year or so (sometimes it stops working, other times the volume knob does not... function as expected).
Also: it's grey. We didn't want a grey car to begin with, but the price was right and we couldn't afford to be picky. But I was getting very, very tired of having a grey car.
So I've been keeping an eye out for a new ride, pretty much since I passed probation in July. Recently I had my eye on a marine blue 2017 Hyundai Elantra. It was out of my price range but the price went down once, then again... if it went down a third time I was planning on getting in touch with the dealership.
But somebody else decided two price drops was enough, and so it disappeared off their site.
Which was fine. Good, if I'm being honest. It was more car than I needed.
Shortly after that, however, a new contender entered the arena. Same dealership in Penticton, handily enough. So I emailed them to get a couple questions answered, then spent a week going back and forth via email trying to get the price I wanted. They dropped the sticker price by a bit, eventually agreed to waive all the extra fees (I'm sorry, but I ain't paying $499 for no cash grab nonsense), and... pointed out that they had the best price for the car I was looking at. In all of BC.
I went in on Saturday to take it for a test drive and figure out what they'd give me for the Saturn. I liked the drive, they gave me more than I was expecting for the trade in, and... now I'm the proud owner of this:
That's a 2018 Kia Rio. White. Would have preferred blue or red, but white is a sight better than grey. The price was right for a car this new, the mileage was what I wanted, and it has some nice features (already enjoying the heated steering wheel). I expect it will serve me well for many years to come.
So, yes, her name is Betty. As in Betty White. The name came to me at the dealership while I was waiting for them to finish washing and cleaning her. Because I am a creative person.
Oh, today's prompt. I felt like I did a lot of research on this purchase. Looked at a lot of different options. Negotiated hard on the price and the waiving of the fees.
The thing I forgot to think about? Car insurance. Turns out, they charge quite a bit more to insure a 2018 vehicle than a 2006 vehicle. Who'd a thunk it.
Anyway. Minor bump in the road. I am very happy with my purchase. The boys think it's pretty cool too. Kat is insisting that I let her drive it occasionally.
I told her I'm open to negotiations.
Tuesday October 15th, 2019
The exercise:
Write two haiku about: Betty White.
Yeah, you didn't read that wrong.
I'll explain tomorrow.
Write two haiku about: Betty White.
Yeah, you didn't read that wrong.
I'll explain tomorrow.
Saturday October 12th, 2019
The exercise:
Write a four line poem about something that is: steady.
Mine:
Buddy paused in its work, stashed the cocktails and
Brought its guns to the ready.
Scanning the courtyard, it found its first target
And its aim was rock steady.
Write a four line poem about something that is: steady.
Mine:
Buddy paused in its work, stashed the cocktails and
Brought its guns to the ready.
Scanning the courtyard, it found its first target
And its aim was rock steady.
Saturday October 5th, 2019
The exercise:
Write a four line poem about: family.
Mine:
The kids rolled slowly through the red and grey murk.
It's like the world has gone mad,
Bucky observed, then stopped in its tracks and asked:
Brother... did I just see Dad?
Write a four line poem about: family.
Mine:
The kids rolled slowly through the red and grey murk.
It's like the world has gone mad,
Bucky observed, then stopped in its tracks and asked:
Brother... did I just see Dad?
Friday October 4th, 2019
The exercise:
Write four lines of prose about something or someone that has been: paid off.
Write four lines of prose about something or someone that has been: paid off.
Thursday October 3rd, 2019
The exercise:
Write about something or someone that is: in the clear.
We had the three month follow up appointment for Miles this morning. He's all good - no more tests, no more doctor visits.
And no more worrying for us.
Well, about that at least.
Write about something or someone that is: in the clear.
We had the three month follow up appointment for Miles this morning. He's all good - no more tests, no more doctor visits.
And no more worrying for us.
Well, about that at least.
Tuesday October 1st, 2019
The exercise:
Write two haiku about: whistles.
Or whistling, or the whistler, or tweet tweet - whatever you want to go with in this general area is good with me.
Write two haiku about: whistles.
Or whistling, or the whistler, or tweet tweet - whatever you want to go with in this general area is good with me.
Monday September 30th, 2019
The exercise:
Write about someone or something that is: early.
Annnnd... we're done with September. On to my birthday month.
Write about someone or something that is: early.
Annnnd... we're done with September. On to my birthday month.
Saturday September 28th, 2019
The exercise:
Write a four line poem about: looking.
Mine:
The Master peered through a crack in his curtains
And spied only smoke and flames.
He began screaming for Junior and Bucky
But chaos swallowed their names.
Write a four line poem about: looking.
Mine:
The Master peered through a crack in his curtains
And spied only smoke and flames.
He began screaming for Junior and Bucky
But chaos swallowed their names.
Thursday September 26th, 2019
The exercise:
Write about: outside influence.
I dunno, just seems... timely.
Write about: outside influence.
I dunno, just seems... timely.
Saturday September 21st, 2019
The exercise:
Write a four line poem about: an entrance.
Mine:
While Junior and Bucky hurried to respond -
One feeling scared, one bolder -
Charlie strolled into the burning compound,
A shotgun on his shoulder
Write a four line poem about: an entrance.
Mine:
While Junior and Bucky hurried to respond -
One feeling scared, one bolder -
Charlie strolled into the burning compound,
A shotgun on his shoulder
Saturday September 14th, 2019
The exercise:
Write a four line poem about: the incursion.
I feel like things might be coming to a head in my yearlong poem...
Mine:
Buddy had hurled twenty Molotov cocktails
Over the hideout's ramparts
Before blowing apart the gates and rolling
In to deal with its upstarts
Write a four line poem about: the incursion.
I feel like things might be coming to a head in my yearlong poem...
Mine:
Buddy had hurled twenty Molotov cocktails
Over the hideout's ramparts
Before blowing apart the gates and rolling
In to deal with its upstarts
Saturday September 7th, 2019
The exercise:
Write a four line poem about: smoke.
We're in Kamloops for the weekend, as Kat's family on her mom's side is gathering to remember her grandfather who recently passed away. She wasn't especially close to him, so it's mostly a chance to visit with family.
The boys, in particular, enjoyed playing with their cousins today, though Natalie and her sisters stayed home with their mom. So it was mostly boy cousins, for a change.
Mine:
The Master was sleeping fitfully that night,
Haunted by vivid nightmares.
So when he woke to the smell of smoke he was
Not sure it was really there
Write a four line poem about: smoke.
We're in Kamloops for the weekend, as Kat's family on her mom's side is gathering to remember her grandfather who recently passed away. She wasn't especially close to him, so it's mostly a chance to visit with family.
The boys, in particular, enjoyed playing with their cousins today, though Natalie and her sisters stayed home with their mom. So it was mostly boy cousins, for a change.
Mine:
The Master was sleeping fitfully that night,
Haunted by vivid nightmares.
So when he woke to the smell of smoke he was
Not sure it was really there
Friday September 6th, 2019
The exercise:
Write four lines of prose about something that has been: stunted.
Write four lines of prose about something that has been: stunted.
Sunday September 1st, 2019
The exercise:
Write about: a flash.
Hello, September. Strange to see you around again so soon.
Write about: a flash.
Hello, September. Strange to see you around again so soon.
Saturday August 31st, 2019
The exercise:
Write a four line poem about something that was: missed.
Farewell, August. See you again next year.
Mine:
Bucky and Junior had grown bored with their post
And had begun to run tests
On the hideout's security measures, so
Missed the approach of their guests
Write a four line poem about something that was: missed.
Farewell, August. See you again next year.
Mine:
Bucky and Junior had grown bored with their post
And had begun to run tests
On the hideout's security measures, so
Missed the approach of their guests
Friday August 30th, 2019
The exercise:
Write four lines of prose about something that has been: toppled.
Write four lines of prose about something that has been: toppled.
Tuesday August 27th, 2019
The exercise:
Write two haiku about: rats.
Mine:
They're plague carrying
vermin. Hey, don't talk about
the children like that!
Nobody's excessively sick, I'm just grumpy at the moment. I suspect the boys will get over their colds about the same time my mood improves.
Write two haiku about: rats.
Mine:
They're plague carrying
vermin. Hey, don't talk about
the children like that!
Nobody's excessively sick, I'm just grumpy at the moment. I suspect the boys will get over their colds about the same time my mood improves.
Saturday August 24th, 2019
The exercise:
Write a four line poem about: the tail.
Mine:
Buddy activated the tracking signals
It had put in its kids heads,
Then set course for the mountains with a snarl... and
Charlie followed in its treads.
Write a four line poem about: the tail.
Mine:
Buddy activated the tracking signals
It had put in its kids heads,
Then set course for the mountains with a snarl... and
Charlie followed in its treads.
Monday August 19th, 2019
The exercise:
Write about something that is: chronic.
... I really need to make an appointment to get my shoulder worked on.
Write about something that is: chronic.
... I really need to make an appointment to get my shoulder worked on.
Sunday August 18th, 2019
The exercise:
Woo, caught up on comments again.
Let's celebrate with our second revisitation of Vancouver Irrealis.
Woo, caught up on comments again.
Let's celebrate with our second revisitation of Vancouver Irrealis.
Saturday August 17th, 2019
The exercise:
Write a four line poem about: signs.
Mine:
Then something that should have led to clarity
Only muddied the waters:
Signs of Bucky and Junior's involvement met
With: Am I a bad father?
Write a four line poem about: signs.
Mine:
Then something that should have led to clarity
Only muddied the waters:
Signs of Bucky and Junior's involvement met
With: Am I a bad father?
Friday August 16th, 2019
The exercise:
Write four lines of prose that have something to do with: falsetto.
Write four lines of prose that have something to do with: falsetto.
Wednesday August 14th, 2019
The exercise:
Write something to do with being: on top of the world.
Also an Imagine Dragons song I've recently rediscovered.
Write something to do with being: on top of the world.
Also an Imagine Dragons song I've recently rediscovered.
Monday August 12th, 2019
The exercise:
Write about: the life aquatic.
With or without Steve Zissou.
The boys had their fun at the Vancouver Aquarium today. Heading back home tomorrow.
Write about: the life aquatic.
With or without Steve Zissou.
The boys had their fun at the Vancouver Aquarium today. Heading back home tomorrow.
Saturday August 10th, 2019
The exercise:
Write a four line poem about: a misunderstanding.
Safe and sound in Vancouver.
Mine:
Buddy thought it might be best to return home
To check in on The Master,
But when it found only blood stains on the floor
It feared Charlie was faster.
Write a four line poem about: a misunderstanding.
Safe and sound in Vancouver.
Mine:
Buddy thought it might be best to return home
To check in on The Master,
But when it found only blood stains on the floor
It feared Charlie was faster.
Friday August 9th, 2019
The exercise:
Write four lines of prose about: the wallet.
My wallet disappeared last Wednesday. Vanished, really. I have no idea where it went to. I held out hope until Sunday then started making calls. So far I've got a temporary driver's license, replaced my debit card, and a replacement credit card (which arrived in the mail today).
Good timing, seeing as we're off for a little visit to Vancouver tomorrow morning.
We'll be back on Tuesday. I will try to find time to post prompts while we're gone.
Write four lines of prose about: the wallet.
My wallet disappeared last Wednesday. Vanished, really. I have no idea where it went to. I held out hope until Sunday then started making calls. So far I've got a temporary driver's license, replaced my debit card, and a replacement credit card (which arrived in the mail today).
Good timing, seeing as we're off for a little visit to Vancouver tomorrow morning.
We'll be back on Tuesday. I will try to find time to post prompts while we're gone.
Monday August 5th, 2019
The exercise:
Write about: the itch.
I awoke this morning to find that the ow of the wasp sting had been replaced by the itchiness of the wasp sting.
Hurray?
Write about: the itch.
I awoke this morning to find that the ow of the wasp sting had been replaced by the itchiness of the wasp sting.
Hurray?
Sunday August 4th, 2019
The exercise:
Write about: the sting.
Went for a nice float on our inflatables down the Kettle River in the summer sunshine with Kat and the boys today, along with Becky and Natalie. After we arrived back to the picnic spot where Kat's parents, Adam, Emersyn, and Hannah were waiting for us, we had lunch.
I was also stung by a wasp, behind my left knee.
But hey, not going to let that ruin the day... just inspire this prompt.
Write about: the sting.
Went for a nice float on our inflatables down the Kettle River in the summer sunshine with Kat and the boys today, along with Becky and Natalie. After we arrived back to the picnic spot where Kat's parents, Adam, Emersyn, and Hannah were waiting for us, we had lunch.
I was also stung by a wasp, behind my left knee.
But hey, not going to let that ruin the day... just inspire this prompt.
Saturday August 3rd, 2019
The exercise:
Write a four line poem about: the hunt.
Mine:
But when Buddy returned to finish the job
Charlie Karsk was long, long gone,
And all that he had left behind was a note
Reading: Now the hunt is on.
Write a four line poem about: the hunt.
Mine:
But when Buddy returned to finish the job
Charlie Karsk was long, long gone,
And all that he had left behind was a note
Reading: Now the hunt is on.
Thursday August 1st, 2019
The exercise:
Write about: a gust of wind.
Yeah, it's a new month and that's how I'm welcoming it and I'm not sorry.
Write about: a gust of wind.
Yeah, it's a new month and that's how I'm welcoming it and I'm not sorry.
Sunday July 28th, 2019
The exercise:
Write about: the new guy in town.
The Town's new CAO's first day on the job is tomorrow. Our retiring CAO will be around for a bit to help with the transition, but I'm looking forward to seeing how the new guy does things.
Write about: the new guy in town.
The Town's new CAO's first day on the job is tomorrow. Our retiring CAO will be around for a bit to help with the transition, but I'm looking forward to seeing how the new guy does things.
Saturday July 27th, 2019
The exercise:
Write a four line poem about something that is: close.
Mine:
The doubts had appeared after the Karsk twin hit -
Such close names, Charlie and Clyde.
Now Buddy was convinced that it would have been
Best if both brothers had died.
Write a four line poem about something that is: close.
Mine:
The doubts had appeared after the Karsk twin hit -
Such close names, Charlie and Clyde.
Now Buddy was convinced that it would have been
Best if both brothers had died.
Saturday July 20th, 2019
The exercise:
Write a four line poem about: a consultation.
And so Part III commences...
Mine:
Buddy found itself plagued by a problem that
It just couldn't figure out.
Had it consulted any humans on the
Matter, they'd have called it doubt.
Write a four line poem about: a consultation.
And so Part III commences...
Mine:
Buddy found itself plagued by a problem that
It just couldn't figure out.
Had it consulted any humans on the
Matter, they'd have called it doubt.
Wednesday July 17th, 2019
The exercise:
Write about a: probation.
Because mine officially ended yesterday, which means I'm now employed full-time with benefits. It's... been a while since I've been able to say that.
Write about a: probation.
Because mine officially ended yesterday, which means I'm now employed full-time with benefits. It's... been a while since I've been able to say that.
Tuesday July 16th, 2019
The exercise:
Write two haiku about: temerity.
I don't know, the word just popped into my head this evening and I decided to run with it.
Write two haiku about: temerity.
I don't know, the word just popped into my head this evening and I decided to run with it.
Saturday July 13th, 2019
The exercise:
Write a four line poem about: shadows.
Mine:
So The Master told the two robots to guard
The grounds and locked himself in.
He dimmed the lights, drew the curtains closed, and saw
In every shadow Death's grin.
Write a four line poem about: shadows.
Mine:
So The Master told the two robots to guard
The grounds and locked himself in.
He dimmed the lights, drew the curtains closed, and saw
In every shadow Death's grin.
Thursday July 11th, 2019
The exercise:
Write about: the ice man.
Cometh, goeth, stayeth... whatever you like.
Write about: the ice man.
Cometh, goeth, stayeth... whatever you like.
Wednesday July 10th, 2019
The exercise:
Write a review from an unhappy customer. Or lots of reviews from unhappy customers. Or all from the same unhappy customer.
You get the idea.
Inspired by a thought I had as I was leaving the pharmacy on my lunch break today after picking up a prescription I'd dropped off yesterday.
Write a review from an unhappy customer. Or lots of reviews from unhappy customers. Or all from the same unhappy customer.
You get the idea.
Inspired by a thought I had as I was leaving the pharmacy on my lunch break today after picking up a prescription I'd dropped off yesterday.
Monday July 8th, 2019
The exercise:
All right, let's get this ship back on course. For the second time this year, let us revisit Mejaran.
All right, let's get this ship back on course. For the second time this year, let us revisit Mejaran.
Sunday July 7th, 2019
The exercise:
It's been a while since the last time I used the First Line Prompt.
So start your prose today with: Lessons born of pain are always the last to be forgotten.
It's been a while since the last time I used the First Line Prompt.
So start your prose today with: Lessons born of pain are always the last to be forgotten.
Saturday July 6th, 2019
The exercise:
Write a four line poem about: assurances.
I think this is the end of Part II for my yearlong poem, but I might need another week before I can get back to Buddy.
Mine:
Bucky tried to soothe The Master, assuring
Him he would be safe with them,
But he found it difficult to be consoled
By a master of mayhem.
Write a four line poem about: assurances.
I think this is the end of Part II for my yearlong poem, but I might need another week before I can get back to Buddy.
Mine:
Bucky tried to soothe The Master, assuring
Him he would be safe with them,
But he found it difficult to be consoled
By a master of mayhem.
Friday July 5th, 2019
The exercise:
Write four lines of prose about something that is: creaking back to life.
Write four lines of prose about something that is: creaking back to life.
Thursday July 4th, 2019
The exercise:
Write something which takes place in: the basement of a museum.
Write something which takes place in: the basement of a museum.
Wednesday July 3rd, 2019
The exercise:
Write about: the normal range.
Miles had his first blood test in three weeks today. His numbers had gone from 51 to 58 to 67 in his previous tests so they wanted to give him a break now that he was trending in the right direction.
Based on that trajectory we were hoping/expecting him to be in the high 80s or low 90s this time around. The normal range is 105 to 130.
He came back at 107 today.
BC Children's called to say his results were 'pristine' and that they'd like a follow up test done in three months.
Best. Possible. News.
Write about: the normal range.
Miles had his first blood test in three weeks today. His numbers had gone from 51 to 58 to 67 in his previous tests so they wanted to give him a break now that he was trending in the right direction.
Based on that trajectory we were hoping/expecting him to be in the high 80s or low 90s this time around. The normal range is 105 to 130.
He came back at 107 today.
BC Children's called to say his results were 'pristine' and that they'd like a follow up test done in three months.
Best. Possible. News.
Monday July 1st, 2019
The exercise:
Write about: colours in the sky.
Happy Canada Day :)
The boys stayed up to watch the fireworks. Tomorrow morning should be delightful.
Write about: colours in the sky.
Happy Canada Day :)
The boys stayed up to watch the fireworks. Tomorrow morning should be delightful.
Saturday June 29th, 2019
The exercise:
Write a four line poem about: innocence.
Last Saturday of June already, huh? Guess we're at the halfway point now.
Mine:
Clyde was innocent - relatively speaking -
While Charlie was the true threat.
Would he seek vengeance with his usual zest?
Well, that was a real safe bet.
Write a four line poem about: innocence.
Last Saturday of June already, huh? Guess we're at the halfway point now.
Mine:
Clyde was innocent - relatively speaking -
While Charlie was the true threat.
Would he seek vengeance with his usual zest?
Well, that was a real safe bet.
Monday June 24th, 2019
The exercise:
Now that I've finally added to last month's post, let us revisit Empires.
With a whole week to spare before the end of the month.
Sigh.
Apologies, I'm trying to get things back on track around here.
Now that I've finally added to last month's post, let us revisit Empires.
With a whole week to spare before the end of the month.
Sigh.
Apologies, I'm trying to get things back on track around here.
Saturday June 22nd, 2019
The exercise:
Write a four line poem about: the twins.
Mine:
You see, Buddy had gone after the Karsk twins
For sins he couldn't forgive,
But The Master was horrified to learn that
It'd let the wrong brother live.
Write a four line poem about: the twins.
Mine:
You see, Buddy had gone after the Karsk twins
For sins he couldn't forgive,
But The Master was horrified to learn that
It'd let the wrong brother live.
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