Hidden Stench
What the hell
is that smell
pungent
and repugnant
musty
and sharp
that sticks
to the back
of the tongue
and clogs
the airways
making the jaw
ache
in a grimace
of distaste
gideonschallenge
Gideon’s Challenge – Toe Beans
Toe Beans
Little paws
reach out
to invite a pet
and nuzzle
so that little arms
can wrap around
to hug
you in close
as black and pink
toe beans
press warm
into cheeks
and a rough tongue
swipes
at your forehead
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge – The Adoptees
The Adoptees
In a warehouse
in the heat
pretty baubles
sing to me
with shimmer
in the glow
of stones
and tendrils
reaching
for my own
and when energy
fits just right
home we go
just you and me
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge – Disenchantment
Disenchantment
Interesting teacups,
delicious
sugary treats
and different flavors
to try
sometimes
aren’t enough
to keep at bay
the jaded moments
when food
holds no meaning
and flavors
hold no shine
and I don’t want
to take
another bite.
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge – The Inner Ache
The Inner Ache
I need a cuddle
and a little bit
of closeness
as the ache
at solar plexus
demands attention
and I want
to bury my face
in soft fur
or clean sheets
to simply
breathe in slow
and let it out
a little at a time
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge – Not Yet Crawling
Not Yet Crawling
Rippling waters
salty and cold
lap against bare toes
as rough sand
bits of shell
and little rocks
crunch quietly
under each step
and as clouds
roll by
I stop to wonder
when the weather
will slip into
something cooler
again
Twisting the Leaf 