Amusement
She picks
her teapot
like a teenager
picking out
a race car
with sleek lines
and vibrant hues
and a voice
that’s both
loud and
obnoxious
writing activity
Gideon’s Challenge – Hopeful
Hopeful
A shimmering
moment of hope
as the descent
seems to slow
much sooner
than the others
as food
stays down
and lungs
fill
without coughing
and I hope
tomorrow
is better
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge – Wet Winter
Wet Winter
Lots of wet
and pretty cold
but still
no sign of snow
as the sun sets
on another day
and even
miserably sick
the beauty
breaks through
as a reminder
to pause
take a deep breath
and enjoy the show
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge – Nighty Night
Nighty Night
Tastes like
mugwort
but better
for sleep
the brew is
sipped slowly
with a few
sweet cookies
before bed
with instant regret
quick to follow
as warmth engages
the inner furnace
and even a sheet
is too much
for sleep
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge – City Lights
City Lights
So many people
and too much
traffic
loud noises
and lights galore
the city
is strung with
love and cheer
in a reminder
to bring
those you love
near
so take a breath
and seek out
moments
of beauty
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge – Christmas Nap
Christmas Nap
Warm inside
with lots of food
and a turkey coma
coming on
as a comfortable spot
is found
not on a sofa
or chair
but lying
on the floor
with head settled
beneath the tree
watching colorful lights
wink
among the boughs
Twisting the Leaf 