Watched Drag Racing...
How
Do they
run in those shoes?

Put away the paper, the ribbons and the bows
Put away the tinsel, the labels, keep the snow
A candle in the window, a wreath hung on the door
Just spending time together, that's what we need more

Running 'round the shopping malls for super, super deals
I hate the store congestion , I just hate how it feels
People running up the high street buying things they do not need
I don't know why at Christmas, our minds just turn to greed

We buy things that we do not use, or really even want
Things that die off in a closet, our future now to haunt
Gift cards that expire and books we will not read
When did we confuse our wants with what we need?

Just give me time alone with you sitting down to talk
Or an hour in the country taking the dog out for a walk
Christmas isn't shopping, showing love by who buys more
Christmas is spending time with loved ones, not something from a store

We need to help out others, and remember what Christmas means
Christmas is a time for sharing, not just buying brand new jeans
Until we learn to give the way that Jesus said we should
Then Christmas will be lacking, of what we all know to be good

So, even if this Christmas, you try to make a start
A simple thing to do is just to give something from your heart
Spend some time with someone who, you love and want to see
And if you find your way 'round here, you can spend some time with me.

I'm sure the day will come
When you'll look back in time
And think of all the hearts you broke
And one of them was mine

You won't look back regretful
I'm sure you will not remember when
My heart was in your orbit
Along with those of other men

Broken hearts and empty beds
Are littered in your wake
You've done more damage than Katrina
And just for your own sake
You're nothing more than selfish
Although I used to love you so
I am grateful for the blessed day
That I grew up and made you go

Loneliness is awful
No one around as you age
You may still be an actress
But, you're the only one on stage

The character you're known for
Is a nasty one I fear
A heartbreaking shrew witch
to put it kindly dear

Broken hearts and empty beds
Are littered in your wake
You've done more damage than Katrina
And just for your own sake
You're nothing more than selfish
Although I used to love you so
I am grateful for the blessed day
That I grew up and made you go

I know men that once did love you
They are doing better now
There are more than I imagined
Stand on up and take a bow

Feelings of resentment
Not from this well mannered guy
I just thought I'd take a moment
To write this and say good bye

IT CAME UPON A MIDNIGHT CLEAR
THE VOICE I HEARD THAT NIGHT
I WASN'T SURE FROM WHERE IT CAME
IT GAVE ME QUITE A FRIGHT
I CLOSED MY EYES AND SAID A PRAYER
I WAS SCARED TO DEATH
AND THEN I HEARD THAT VOICE AGAIN
SO  NOW...I HELD MY BREATH
IN ALL MY LIFE I'D NEVER HEARD
A VOICE AS DEEP AS THIS
IT SHOOK ME UP RIGHT TO MY SOULD
IT ALMOST MADE ME ****
IN CHURCH, I THOUGHT, THEY SPEAK OF THINGS
THAT MAKE YOU FEEL THIS WAY
SOME MAY GO THEIR WHOLE LIFE THROUGH
TO FEEL AS I TODAY
CHRISTMAS EVE WAS COMING SOON
BUT I GOT MY GIFT THEN
I STOOD ON UP AND TURNED TO GO
AND I HEARD THAT VOICE AGAIN
THE VOICE RANG OUT SO LOUD AND PURE
I TOOK IN EVERY WORD
YOU MAY ASK WHAT IT DID SAY
SO, THIS IS WHAT I HEARD..........





ELVIS HAS LEFT THE BUILDING!

i was drinking
so i'm late
that's what started the debate

was it one drink
maybe two
i'm not sure, i wish i knew

in every single conversation
there's two sides that we see
but, besides ours, there's another
the truth and that makes three

was i dancing
did i meet
another woman, so discreet

you were home
alone you said
but, there's clean sheets upon the bed

little lies
and bigger liars
i didn't ride her, just kicked the tires

you just smile
and don't let on
it's just ten minutes since he's been gone

we can argue
what's the use
neither one can tell the truth

i go quiet
that's just me
there's still a third side i should see

so i drink
one shot or two
it shouldn't matter much to you

one side mine
another yours
the third side hidden behind closed doors

there's three sides known  to every story
the third one can be kind of gory
so it's the one we never see
mine, yours, and the truth makes three

We were like brothers
forever
We are still even today
When he moved
We both parted angry
With one word we never did say

My grandpa was something
so special
He passed while I was away
I miss him and I want to tell him
The words I did not get to say

I know I won't see you forever
I'll think of you until I die
I know I'll remember the good times
But I wish I did say goodbye

We did most things
together
Where I went you were there too
My shadow, my little brother
I missed a lifetime with you

I grew up and moved onto
college
Got married and started life's play
I felt trapped and so dear we parted
I left you with one word to say

I know I won't see you forever,
I'll think of you until I die
I know I'll remember the good times
But I wish I did say goodbye

Life leads us in different
directions
Paths cross, and sometimes they end
Lovers, and brothers remembered
One goodbye, would still make us friends

Old wounds can always
reopen
Once opened they can be healed in some way
Remember the good in your lifetime
And the one word you just didn't say

I know I won't see you forever
I'll think of you until I die
I know I'll remember the good times
But I wish I did say goodbye

A day for celebration
of being brought into her nest
A day when everybody says
My mother is the best

But, what about the other days
we do not recognize
Is your mother still the best one
Or is all you say just lies?

They give us life
They clean us up
give us strength
when we have none
even when they ground us
is she still the bestest mom?

Even on this day of days
That we celebrate all she did
When you try to make her happy
You are still her little kid

In our house when I grew up
Mothers Day was one for Dad
When mom could have the house alone
We'd all leave and she was glad

She loves you when you are not there
She is a mentor as you age
The things she said when you were young
Now make her sound more like a sage

So, take this time to celebrate
Your mother....have a laugh
Gather up the whole fam damily
And leave mom....to have a bath!!!!

Norman Rockwell and Jim Unger
Artists from my past
I've met one but not the other
A memory that  will last

Who the hell is Bertrand Russell?
I asked over a drink
A man who changed the world forever
Changed the way we think

I remember the Norman Rockwell painting
It's burned deep  inside my mind
But, I have got a copy
It's the best one that you'll find

An artist unknown to others
But, a special one to me
My father drew old Russell
It's quite a piece to see

It's never been inside a book
And never will it be
But, Bertrand Russells' wrinkles
Mean a lot to me

Jim Unger and his Herman
Were a favorite of my brother
The artist and his humour
Were unlike any other

We met him at a signing
My brother brought his art
He showed it to Jim Unger
He broke my brother's heart

My brother was an artist
Just like my Dad as well
Their art, not for the public
Their art, was not to sell

Their art should be remembered
Their art should be displayed
Like a vintage guitar  sitting
It's better if it's played

So, now two artists pictures
Hidden for an age
Will be shown, for everybody
On a printed page

I give you first, my brother
Ian Turner was his name
No longer is he with us
But, this will show he came

The second one, my father
John Turner, is his name
His drawing days behind him
But, man did he have game

So, here for your enjoyment
Rockwell via Turner number one
Followed by Ungers' Herman
That was done by Turner's son

No time for your little games
Misplaced accusations
Best that I should just move on
Sayonorah....salutations

No time for the little snips
No time for all the crap
No time for all the snide remarks
No Time.....this is a wrap

No time for all your misplaced anger
No time for things you say
No time for all your Drama Mama
No Time...to stay and play

No time to work on what we're doing
No time to be a team
No time to hear your nasty comments
No time to hear you scream

No time to be your whipping post
No time to feel the sting
No time to be the one and only
No time to wear your ring

No time to live as we intended
No time to share in bed
No time to  wait until it's ended
No time to clear my head

No time to figure out the problem
No time to stick around
No time to bite my tongue again
No time for us is found

No time to be a perfect couple
No time to be a spouse
No time to spend one more minute
No time to sit and grouse

It's time for me to move on forward
It's time for this to end
It's time to say that this is over
It's time for me to mend.......

Baby, I don't know why I love you
I'm just caught up in your spell
I don't understand the magic
Maybe that is just as well

As long as we are both together
My heart will be always true
I don't understand exactly
How I ended up with you

If I could have just three wishes
I would wish to be with you
As long as that one wish was granted
I'd never need the other two

All I have is yours forever
You're the one who makes me whole
I don't understand the magic
That made me offer up my soul

Baby, you and I have something
No one else will ever get
I don't understand the magic
That caught this fish in your net

If I could have just three wishes
I would wish to be with you
As long as that one wish was granted
I'd never need the other two

If I could have just three wishes
I would wish to be with you
As long as that one wish was granted
I'd never need the other two

You can hear them if you listen
When the wind blows in the night
The people who once lived here
Who are gone now, out of sight

The buildings, many shuttered
Housed ten thousand at it's peak
Now empty, vacant, skeltons
Once vibrant, now, so bleak

Silver once was mined nearby
Thousands flocked here for the chance
To strike it rich, be wealthy
Uninvited to the dance

For all that comes with promise
The devil comes as well
With money comes temptations
As the small town starts to swell

Business and homesteads
Spring up where once was none
Lawlessness is rampant
The law is by the gun

Saloons, hotels, and harlots
Soapbox preachers, grab your purse
We all cannot be winners
That is just the boom towns curse

Like a zephyr in the desert
A boom town changes in a flash
Prosperity will vanish
And so does all the cash

The boom town dies as quickly
As a flower in the snow
Scattered now back homeward
With nothing left to show

The earth takes all she's given
The buildings may still stand
But, the mines are all now empty
There's no value to this land

Listen to the voices
The wind let's them sing out
You can hear them in the darkness
That's when the locals all come out

A ghost town is a relic
It shows the best and worst of man
So, listen to the wind now
Hear their stories if you can

I passed myself the other day

Walking down the street

Heading back from where I'd come

Just a mirage from excess heat

I knew where I was going

I was faced the other way

I was leaving for no reason

I was not prepared to stay

It seems my mind was wandering

And that is what I saw

Just a daydream for a second

As it snuck out my brains door

I focused and I stopped myself

Turned around and headed back

I enjoyed my time out wandering

But I'm glad I'm back on track

If you pass yourself while walking

It's okay for just a while

Just wave and say hello to you

You might answer with a smile

A little trip away at times

A daydream makes the day

As long as you come back from it

And you don't decide to stay

As long as you're out walking

When you pass you on the street

Just be thankful you're not driving

That would be a dangerous feat

Sometimes going backwards

Takes us where we want to go

Going backwards takes us forwards

To places we don't know

I passed myself the other day

I know that I had fun

I hope you pass yourself one day

And I'm not the only one.

T'was the night before Christmas
The kids were in bed
Dreaming of Santa
All dressed up in red

The wife was upstairs
Wrapping gifts in our room
I was watching old Scrooge
In old London gloom

when out of the blue
there was a knock at the door
I leapt from the couch
and i slipped on the floor

i answered the knock
i still got there quick
and to my surprise
there stood St. Nick

"Please, sir I pray"
"may I enter through here"
"My stomach is churning"
"an explosion is near"

I pointed the way
first door on the right
Santa went off
To relieve himself right

My wife came downstairs
She asked 'bout the knock
I said go upstairs
She'd think my tale was a crock

The bathroom door opened
Santa came out
Then he told me the tale
Of what this all was about

"All of these houses"
"with warm milk and cookies"
"get my gut growling"
"like a room full of wookies"

"Soy, two percent"
"almond and skim"
"all mixed together"
"the result is quite grim"

"It started to churn"
"and I was getting quite frantic"
"I was just coming in"
"from above the Atlantic"

"Most years it's fine"
"But, this soy...never try it"
"it should really be banned"
"not put in one's diet"

"Do you mind if I sit"
"for a while just in case"
"I've got more houses to hit"
"And it will be a race"

My wife stood quite still
In fact she'd not said a word
Imagine your toliet downstairs
Home to dear Santa's ****

I offered a drink
Something to settle him down
He said thanks, but begged off
And he gave a slight frown

"I've got to get going"
"Time stops just so long"
"Thanks for your help"
"It could have all gone so wrong"

He filled up our stockings
He called his reindeer by name
"I'll bypass the chimney
and I'll leave as I came"

I looked at my wife
We both said "oh well"
I mean when you take it all in
Just who could we tell?

So, in future please listen
take a second and think
It could end up quite bad
don't leave him soy milk to drink

I can not sing songs, but I do
I used to not write, but who knew
So I sing and I write
And I do both every night
I can not sing songs, but I do

My voice is not good, but so what
It's the only **** voice that I've got
I sing what I know
I sing high and sing lo
My voice is not good, but so what?

I wish I wrote songs, but I can't
My poems mostly rhyme, and some rant
I can not write songs
But, I'll write all day long
I wish I wrote songs, but I can't

I can not play music, I just write
I don't write real deep, only light
I wish I could play
But, I can't so I say
I can not play music, I just write

I'm glad that you like what I share
I can't sing a song, but who cares
I'll feel like a ****
But, next stop....youtube
I hope you drop by...once I'm there!!!

Although I wished it different
It wasn't all that good
I'd been drinking pretty heavy
And I didn't have much wood

we fumbled in the back seat
I got her nickers past her knees
She leaned in close and whispered
Be gentle with me please

No pressure on this ******
I thought she knew her way around
Now, I'm drunk and she's all tensed up
I said "let's get outside upon the ground"

The cold air on my *******
Made things go from bad to worse
My ***** was a dead as
A corpse inside a hearse

so, I got on top and rode her
where I thought that other blokes had been
and after seven minutes riding
she asked me "is it in?"

Land is disappearing
ok, farms to be exact
swallowed up by cities
they're gone, and that's a fact
developers are buying
what the farmers now will sell
for the subdivision builders
who are waiting at the well

standing in a parking lot
of what used to be a farm
I remember corn and animals
and I remember a red barn
now, it is a big box store
selling food from somewhere else
grown in little laboratories
from little dishes on a shelf

there used to be a farm right here
a place that grew our food
we knew what we were buying
now we don't and we are *******
the big box stores keep coming
and they're starting to intrude
we once had farms and churches
now we don't and we are *******

I remember driving out of town
twenty minutes at the most
you'd pass by at least four farms
now the farmland is the host
to development and wind farms
No parks, just urban sprawl
no fields of cows and horses
just another **** strip mall

There used to be a farm here
it was sold to pay the tax
it was auctioned off in silence
behind the farmers backs
no more farms or farmers
no more barns with painted names
just big houses with no back yards
where you don't know your neighbors names

there used to be a farm right here
a place that grew our food
we knew what we were buying
now we don't and we are *******
the big box stores keep coming
and they're starting to intrude
we once had farms and churches
now we don't and we are *******

I'm sorry that you're hurting darling
I wish that I could ease your pain
But, it's not something that I can do
Until we meet again

I'm standing at attention
Watching, knowing what you feel
As you struggle in your mind
To figure out if this is real

I love you and I'll be with you
Although I am buried here
There's other soldiers with me
They say there's nothing you should fear

Veterans from others wars
Who laid their life down on demand
Others, valiant women and men
Who followed country and command

As they fold my flag for you
You wipe away a tear
And smile up so bravely
There is nothing you should fear

I'm standing at attention
Watching silent with no sound
As the guns go off is sequence
And I'm lowered in the ground

I love you and I'll be with you
Although I am buried here
There's other soldiers with me
They say there's nothing you should fear

Veterans from others wars
Who laid their life down on demand
Others, valiant women and men
Who followed country and command

Remember what we always had
A bond that only death could break
As strong as any hurricane
That only love could make

I am standing at attention
Here, with veterans who went before
I know that we will meet again
I'll be waiting at the door


I love you and I'll be with you
Although I am buried here
There's other soldiers with me
They say there's nothing you should fear

Veterans from others wars
Who laid their life down on demand
Others, valiant women and men
Who followed country and command

Now be my strong brave soldier
Take a breath and count to ten
For I'll always be here with you
Until we meet again

There's days I swear I see him
Sitting out on the front porch
Whittling away the time of day
With his pipe and dog, Scorch

I smell the pipe tobacco in the hall
Makes me think he's still around
Sitting out front whittling away
But he's nowhere to be found

I wish he were still here
Telling me Grandpa things
Like how to make a fishing pole
Out of a stick and some old string
I wish he were still here
I know he'd be proud of me
Just to see who I've become
I just wish he were here with me

I know he's looking down upon us
Although, I know that he sneaks in
I smell his Hai Karate out in front
That's how I know Grandpa's been

I miss having the old man around
I just wish he were still here
Just to teach me grandpa things
And sit and laugh over a beer

I know that it's impossible
I know he's truly gone
But, every now and then I know I hear him
Whistling his favorite country song

I wish I could have just one more day
I know just what I'd say
But, I'm sure that my old grandpa
Is still around today

I wish he were still here
Telling me Grandpa things
Like how to make a fishing pole
Out of a stick and some old string
I wish he were still here
I know he'd be proud of me
Just to see who I've become
I just wish he were here with me

Can't Ask To Get Salvation

© 12 June 2015 Roger Turner

& Whitney Rix Victory II


V1/ You can't know where you're going,

If you don't know where you've been,

Can't ask to get salvation,

Not if you haven't sinned.

Your intentions are showing,

I've known it since way back when.

You're asking for salvation,

Your destiny is penned.


Ch/ If you want to have a life,

A life, a life of substance,

Have to get on out and play,

If you want to have this life,

Take a chance and make it dance!

And you have a choice today,

Can't ask to get salvation,

Not if you haven't sinned.


V2/ Now I'm not sure where to go,

I am not sure even though,

Said you'll light the way to go,

Still you're not sure where to go.

Tarry around to the end,

Speak of things you can't defend.

Can't ask to get salvation,

Not if you haven't sinned.


Ref/ Can't ask to get salvation,

Not if you haven't sinned.

You're asking for salvation,

Your destiny is penned.

Billy Flynn looked skyward
As the fire slowly died
The embers dancing gaily
They had a hard days ride

He looked down at the fire
At the coals and their red glow
"Better get them horses covered"
"The clouds are bringing snow"

From the back a voice was heard
"You sure, you crazy coot"
He looked to where the voice had come
And he lit up a cheroot

"As sure as we're all sitting here"
"Tomorrow, we'll see snow"
"So, get them horses covered"
"We'll want them warm when we must go"

They'd been out on the trail for months
Now, home was in their thoughts
They'd been hunting down some rustlers
Now, all but two were caught

The two were shot in Texas
In a shoot out first week in
The others caught in Reno
Nearly 21 weeks in

Billy poked the fire
And he said "best keep it hot"
"someone get some wood here"
"I suggest you get a lot"

They finished up their dinners
Billy said we'll leave 'fore dawn
There's someone out there watching
A quick rest, and we'll be gone

He set two cowpokes watching
Tending fire in the night
Watching for intruders
And keeping out of sight

Billy Flynn was old school
A Texas Ranger long ago
If anyone was closing in
Old Billy Flynn would know

"I'm resting now" old Billy said
"I'd suggest you do the same"
"Get the prisoners to the side there"
"To lose them now would be a shame"

He checked on all the horses
Made sure their blankets were pulled tight
Then Billy, grabbed his blanket
And he laid down for the night

In the morning, the ground was covered
It had snowed, three inches plus
The others all were watching
Billy Flynn....he made no fuss

"I could feel it in the air boys"
"The sky was screaming snow"
"I've been out here more than you have"
"That's all you gotta know"

They ate and broke camp quickly
They heard some noises to their right
The men that they had captured
Had friends show up late last night

They were keeping back a distance
Watching, waiting for their chance
While Billy Flynn showed nothing
And helped prolong the dance

"Boys, you'd best get ready"
"There'll be a shoot out sometime soon"
"I figure they'll be coming at us"
"In the open...round 'bout noon"

"Keep an eye around you"
"Move the prisoners to the flank"
"Protect yourself from whatever"
"These men have left in their dry tank"

Billy called it perfect
About five hours on the ride
Six gunmen came upon them
Three came in from either side

Billy took the first one,
Shot him dead, between the eyes
The youngster back behind him
Had never seen a grown man die

It only took two minutes
Thirty seven shots in all
And in the end there was old Billy
Off his horse and standing tall

The six were dead and bleeding
"We'll leave them to the birds"
Two of Billy's men were wounded
And he'd almost lost a third

Two hours on they came to town
Billy Flynn was in the lead
He stopped to get some water
That was all Billy would need

He took his prisoners to the Jailhouse
And his charges to the Doc
Then he went on to the tavern
Ordered drinks from barkeep ****

This talks of Billy Flynn
And true old western tale
Just hope you never ever
Have old Billy on your trail

Billy drank his beer and walked away
He said "It's time for me to go"
"the clouds are saying one thing"
"But, watch out....we're in for snow".

Too **** drunk to play

I fell into a bottle
Four Presidents ago
looking for the hidden song
Just before a show

Once I thought I found it
I was in about half way
When I took the stage I found out
I was far too drunk to play

Every bottle has a song
somewhere deep inside
I haven't found one yet though
but, ****...i know I've tried

Each line upon my weary face
And scar upon my fingers
is the end result of searching for
the song that always lingers

If it isn't in one bottle
in the next it may be there
so for now, i'll just keep searching
for the song that isn't there

there's songs in other places too
too dark for me to go
some find songs inside a needle
those aren't songs I want to know

I come by my songs honestly
my scars show I've looked deep
But, when I'm almost there and see it
That's kinda when I fall asleep

when I'm sober, I can't find them
once I'm drinking, then I hear
The song calling from a bottle
I'm like an alcoholic seer

I know I'll find the right one
And it just may be today
I only hope I find it
Before I'm too **** drunk to play

I only hope I find it
Before I'm too **** drunk to play

They say don't go out walking
in the woods nearby
You'll reach a point where it's so dark
You can not see the sky
It doesn't matter much to me
And here's the reason why
I listen to the wind out there
It speaks to me on high

One wrong turn and you'll be lost
They tell me, still I go
I know where I'm heading
The wind it tells me so
I listen to the wind out there
It say's I'm glad you came
The wind and I are such old friends
The wind it calls my name

Elemental friendship
From another time
Silent Conversation
No words, just thoughts in rhyme

Snowy winter afternoons
out walking all alone
Making trails for no one else but me
I listen to the tree and how they groan
The wind it makes them talk some
Not one tree sounds the same
The wind and I are such old friends
The wind it calls my name

The darkness closes in so fast
The winter days are short
Walking on in silence
Like a library or court
The wind says night is coming
Go back from whence I came
The wind and I are such old friends
The wind it calls my name

Elemental friendship
From another time
Silent Conversation
No words, just thoughts in rhyme

I've been back
To where I came from
I've been back
To where I started out
I've been back
To where I came from
I've been back
To where I started out

Nothings changed
but, all is different
It's a place
I don't belong
Nothings changed
but, all is different
I just feel
that something's wrong


Trees are bigger
as expected
I see where I carved
my name
House is old
and been repainted
but, it just doesn't
feel the same

Play  the hand that you were dealt
Bet, the river or the flop
Play the hand that you were dealt
Life will tell you when to stop
You can't go back and do it over
Play the hand that you were dealt
Win or lose, the cards are over
Play the hand that you were dealt

Seeing places
long forgotten
of where you once held court
empty fields
and empty school yards
no longer home to sport

two lane roads
now four lane highways
a river long since dry
little stores
now parking places
built up as time went by

Play  the hand that you were dealt
Bet, the river or the flop
Play the hand that you were dealt
Life will tell you when to stop
You can't go back and do it over
Play the hand that you were dealt
Win or lose, the cards are over
Play the hand that you were dealt




cloudy skies
and ***** water
and trees that once stood tall
something's wrong
it's gotten hotter
and the trees are now a mall

picnic tables
by the beach
initials carved in hearts
beach is closed
with long forgotten
the initials in our hearts

Play  the hand that you were dealt
Bet, the river or the flop
Play the hand that you were dealt
Life will tell you when to stop
You can't go back and do it over
Play the hand that you were dealt
Win or lose, the cards are over
Play the hand that you were dealt

Can  you see
Just what I see?
The things that make you you

Can you see
Just what I see?
Exactly as I do

Hidden right before you
Is a woman full of poise
But, you cannot find her in there
Hidden behind all the white noise

Name brands and faux labels
Do not show off who you are
No one cares who's name you wear
Or who designed your car

Do you see
Who I see?
Strong and full of class

Do you see
What   I  see?
Something special no one has

Strong, yet hiding in the shadows
Keeping distance from the world
A chrysalis hiding beauty
Waiting just to be unfurled

You are special and I know it
I want you to know it too
Do you see, what I see?
I can only hope you do

Do you know
What I know?
That you're perfect, yes you are

Do you know
What I know?
I am proud of who you are

I do not see a future world
Unless it is with you
I'm happy in the present though
Because it is with you
The love you show behind your eyes
Makes me love you more
Because you make me better
And that's what love is for

For better or worse
The two of us were told
No matter what he said from there
I had my *** of gold
Every year we celebrate
But, it is not just one day
Our marriage is worth celebrating
In so many different ways

Music brings back memories
Of places we have been
Of people we have been with
Of places we have seen
Each song a different vision
Of something from our past
And because of our musicianship
The visions will all last

The future music that we make
And the songs we have not sung
Are equal to the loudest choirs
And all the church bells that are rung
The love we have between us
Is a fire that won't die
For we always work together
To keep us we instead of I

this is the story of cedric hyde-fleet
the most un-cowboy cowboy you ever would meet
cedric was english, not british you see
but, being a cowboy was what  he wanted to be

he was from england
as i said before
never ridden a horse
and well, what's more
his image of cowboys
was of those on tv
but, being a cowboy
was what he wanted to be

he was all set to travel
and leave his home land
out to the west
but, he was allergic to sand
the dust would wreak havoc
with his pale, flaky skin
ten miles from home
was the furthest he'd been

he had a six shooter
which he'd nicknamed Old Burt
but, he didn't have bullets
they made his ears hurt
the smell of the powder
and the noise of the gun
made cedric wonder
if this would truly be fun

he needed a cream
for the chafing down there
and a specialized hat
to protect his thin hair
a brush wouldn't do
he would need a nice comb
he reacted to flannel
so he'd get shirts from rome

he'd fly out from london
head out west to a ranch
find a town just like gunsmoke
and a bar....the long branch
but, his stomach was tender
hard liquor was out
and the salt in the food
would just trouble his gout

but, cedric hyde-fleet
was determined to go
to the united states
to join a wild west show
he'd start out learning riding
how to shoot, and all that
he'd learn about cattle
he had his own hat

he was the most un-cowboy cowboy
they would have in the west
but, with his dedication
he would soon be the best
he would get all equipped
from dolce and gabbanna
his shirts and socks matched
his silk plaid bandanna

now, cedric hyde-fleet
never ever left home
never got on the horse
or got shirts made in rome
the things that he wanted
were the things that he'd seen
and he forgot about cowboys
when he first saw ....The Queen

To truly love another
You first must love yourself...
Just don't do it in public !!!!

I remember it like yesterday
That night I saw you dance
You were alone, and I was watching
You had me in a trance

I was celebrating nothing
as you danced to the Bo-Deans
I knew I had to find out more
When I saw you in those jeans

It may as well be carved in stone
I'm never gonna change my mind
It's as good as done once I decide
I'm never gonna change my mind

We dated for a couple months
Marriage, well why not?
It was just the natural course of things
I didn't need a second thought

My friends kept working on me
Saying you're moving much too fast
She's nice but, do you know her
Are you sure that this will last?

It may as well be carved in stone
I'm never gonna change my mind
It's as good as done once I decide
I'm never gonna change my mind

Next in line, was having kids
That just made too much sense
And the the dog and the big house
with the old white picket fence

The rumours kept evolving
I just laughed at their attack
They said that you were cheating
That you had knifed me in the back

It may as well be carved in stone
I'm never gonna change my mind
It's as good as done once I decide
I'm never gonna change my mind

I chose not to believe it
You loved me, and I loved you
They were jealous we were happy
This was not what you would do

Then I caught you with our neighbor
You begged to stay, and I said no
I truly, once did love you
Now, it's time for you to go

It may as well be carved in stone
I'm never gonna change my mind
It's as good as done once I decide
I'm never gonna change my mind

You're never gonna change it
I'll never change my mind
It's set as hard as concrete
I'll never change my mind

Did you have a "Mrs. Robinson" to help you come along ?

Or did you have a teenage tumble in the dark ?

Was she someone who was older, not just someone in a song?

Or was it just your highschool sweetheart in the dark?

We all gave "it" to someone,

That day our innocence was lost

Were we the hunter or the hunted

And whatever was the cost?

Was it just as you expected?

Was it clumsy and a mess ?

Did you do as you were ordered?

Did you ruin her new dress ?

Would you change the roles around now

If you could do it once again?

Would you be sweeter and more loving

If it was now instead of then?

Was it just like in the movies ?

Did you finish up and leave ?

Or did you ***** up and say I love you ?

Wearing your heart upon your sleeve

We know the truth is never what we tell our friends it was

We keep the record falsified, for reasons ....just because

It's private and it happened....but not the way you say

You want to keep the reputation that you've lived with to this day.

Did you have a "Mrs. Robinson" to help you come along ?

Or, did you have a teenage tumble in the dark ?

Was she someone who was older, not just someone in a song?

Or did you pay a cheap old prozzie in the park?

What do you expect from me?
Am I your entertaining clown?
Am I always supposed to clicked on
When your friends come around?
Am I here for your enjoyment?
Am I here to make you laugh?
Do you want me for my company?
Or am I just on your staff?
The light goes on, and I'm on stage
Regardless where we are
I'm the center of attention
I'm a bug trapped in your jar
When I'm quiet you ignore me
When I'm on, you're by my side
I am just another plaything
Being taken for a ride?
I'm funny when I need to be
But, that's by your request
I'm a puppet on your little stage
When I'm on, I'm at my best
I hide behind my greasepaint
Wearing masks through out the day
But, when the footlights shine
And I'm in front, that's when I come to play
Am I funny just to please you?
Or am I really pleasing me?
The doorbell rang, your friends are here
Another show for free.

i can taste your lips
when we share a kiss
i feel your breath
and watch you
when we share a kiss
i hear your heart
stop beating
i can smell
you get excited
when we share a kiss

should i ever be left senseles
i will never ever miss
everything we ever had
when we shared that kiss

my mind will form a picture
of the lips that i shall miss
the touch of gentle sweetness
of when we shared a kiss

forever will i savor
the way your breath did slip
the gentle cherry flavour
that did linger on your lips

my mind will also linger
on the sight of your blue eyes
wide open as i kissed them
the silent whisper of your sighs

should i be rendered senseless
i will never ever miss
everything we ever shared
when we first shared a kiss

Went drinking alone at the tavern
all by myself drinking beer
When suddenly out on the dance floor
A denim clad angel appeared

I watched when she went to her table
Bought a beer and I asked to sit down
I mumbled some lame words of greeting
As I looked into her eyes deep and brown

she looked at me and said

you gotta do better than that boy
if you want me to follow you home
if that's the best that  you got boy
then you're gonna end up home alone
you've got to work harder to get me
i'm not one who falls for cheap lines
if that's all you've got then forget me
you need game or you're riding the pines

i made my way back to the barstool
ordered a beer and a shot
the bartender smiled and he said bud
you don't look like you did quite so hot

i smiled, and i ordered another
forgot all the cheap, cheesy lines
then i wandered on back to her table
i was giving off all the wrong signs

she looked at me and said

you gotta do better than that boy
if you want me to follow you home
if that's the best that  you got boy
then you're gonna end up home alone
you've got to work harder to get me
i'm not one who falls for cheap lines
if that's all you've got then forget me
you need game or you're riding the pines


i gave up and i went to my bar stool
maybe i should give up, she was right
then a redhead sat down right beside me
and she smiled, so it may be my night

i looked over and saw the girl watching
as i treated the girl with success
it was then that the first one came over
and that's when it became a big mess

she looked at me and said

i was ready to leave here  beside you
getting her was not what i meant
you've game to keep up my interest
you just missed on the signals i sent

and i said

baby, if you want to come with me
you had your chance twice, and you passed
i smiled at the red head beside me
and i said we should leave, and leave fast

we've been together for nearly a decade
and it started with one corny line
i smile when i think of her answer
it was almost as corny as mine

she looked at me and said

you've got to do better than that babe
if you expect me to leave on your arm
but, i've time to teach you the right way
and to be the one who may fall for your charm
i think that you have some potential
lose the lines and you'll improve your game
it was then that she grabbed my hand lightly
and it was then that she told me her name....

Like Harry Chapin's Mr. Tanner
I live an uneventful life
I have a day job and a puppy
And a strong and loving wife
Mr Tanner was a cleaner
Who sang while pressing clothes
I , myself am nothing more
Than a man who's writing prose
His friends and neighbors
Praised the voice that came out from his throat
My friends do just the same for me
They all like what I've wrote
But, now I take the step
The one that Tanner took
I'm opening myself on up
I'm now sharing my book
My poems, they are my children
The characters are me
I hope that you enjoyed all this
At least the show was free
If you like what was read
And you'd like to hear more
Just look for me on facebook
For these poems aren't in the store
Now, I 've shared who I am
Like Mr. Tanner did before
Now it is time for me to leave
And I hope you're wanting more.

Does anyone remember?
Do we really want to know?
When did things change?
Where did our innocence go?

Times were demanding
and secrets were hid
It was an easier time
When you were a kid

You might have a problem
With a bully at school
You'd take it out to  the schoolyard
And a fight would ensue

Now they are armed
Things just aren't the same
They have guns in their lockers
Just who is to blame?

What are we missing?
When did it all change?
Our kids sing of murders
Instead of home on the range

I wish there was a way
To go back in the past
When kids still were children
Now, they grow up too fast

Does anyone remember?
Do we really want to know?
When did things change?
Where did our innocence go?

Let me introduce myself
I'm Robert K. Wesson,
Sgt. Retired
I like to say the K was for killer,
But, in fact it was for Knowlton
I have no idea why,
Nobody in our family named that, as far as I know.
Anyway, that's out of the way.
35 years served. Can't give away anymore information than that, it's a national secret. I can say, I can cook a mean chipped beef for 1100 men though.

I served in WWII, lost a lot of friends. I'm 97 years young now, as they like to say. I don't, I gave up counting years ago when I lost my wife, but, folks round here like to put on a show every year I get closer to 100. They wheel a cake into me, have me blow out the candles and then I head down stairs to the commissary for a beer. A light beer mind you, but, still a beer. Anything harder messes with my meds.
Personally, I think they give me the beer to shut me up, puts me to sleep in no time. I'm on pills for blood pressure, diabetes, headaches, one to make me ***, one to make me ****. Won't get into those now, rather unsavory things to chat about.

As I said, I served in the big one, came back relatively unscathed. No physical issues that I know of, but, mentally, I saw things no one should. Things that stay with you for ever. I wasn't front line per se, but, I can't tell you what I did, it's a national secret. I can say though, 100 loaves of bread, I can do that....no trouble at all.
Around here, I'm Grampa Bob, or Gramps, depending on who is working. Not many from my generation here now. Oh, here? I'm at a military home outside of Kingston. Some days, it's great, others, I wished I was gone years back. I wish I was gone in the war sometimes, but, then I would never have met my wife and had the fantastic life I did have. No kids, but, we made do.
Met her once I came home. But, that's another story. Wished I'd gone first though, tough watching her pass, cowardly to say, but, it was rough. I came in here after that. Was having trouble sleeping, concentrating, and generally couldn't take care of myself.
Seems strange a man who could do what I could, I can't tell you though, National Secret and all.  But I could field strip my weapon in the dark in a windstorm, and make stew for 1100 men no sweat.
Well, I came here, before I burned out the house. The local fire department got tired of coming out I guess, made a few calls, and here I be. Sold the house, made enough to do ok here, what with my pension and all too.
I'm not one for reading too much, eyes aren't the best anymore, and my hands, well the arthritis flares up and I can barely move some days. There's a computer in the common area we can use, but, I know all I need to know, and some things I wished I didn't.
Never got used to television, especially after it switched to colour. I didn't get the jokes, and the cop shows? I had the murderer figured out in the first ten minutes, why couldn't they figure it out?
Back to here. I'm an early riser, always was. Get up, shuffle to the sink to do my teeth before they come in and give me the whole whang dang doodle wash and wax to get me ready to face the day.
I used to go to the crafts classes here. They were ok, but, a man only need so many fake leather wallets with horses on them. After all, I've nobody to really give one to. If you want one, let me know, I've lots. Did a few of the Christmas trees in ceramics, but, after a while, I lost interest. The wife loved having the trees around, but, without her, it's not the same. Made about 7 or 8, let the nurses have those.
The nurses, great kids. Not the same as the ones we had in the war. Those....well, those were nurses. They could do anything needed, field strip a rifle, put in an IV under fire, drive a jeep, all without getting those starched white uni's ***** or blood stained. And...without losing their caps. Nurses today? good kids, but, not as tough in my book. Things have changed a lot, no uniforms like the old days, pretty casual, and 5 nurses to do what one would do in one quick visit. Now, 5 nurses, 2 hours to do what?
Anyways, I hear one coming now, so I best go. I know it's not my birthday, and VE day was the other day, so, must be tests again for something. I'll be here if you need a wallet remember, lots to go around. Hope to talk soon,
Just ask for Gramps, they'll get you here.

I'll start  with "Goodbye"
Yes, I'll start at the end
It's easier to leave
If we become friends

It saves us the trouble
It's best now to say
Goodbye at the beginning
In case friends we don't stay

It's not left on the table
There's closure right off
To me it makes sense
While you just may scoff

Next time at a meeting
Tell them, goodbye not hello
It may cause confusion
But, it's easy to go

So, I'm telling you now
Goodbye now my friend
That way it's all covered
At our relationships end

Heaven or Hell
Which way to go?
It's all up to you
Above or below

Do unto others
as they would to you
or Do unto others
Before they do you

Are you respectful?
Or are you a ****?
Your first impression
Is one that will stick

No one is perfect
We all try and try
But which way are you going
When it's your turn to die

Angels or Demons
Who shall open your door
Your reputation is tallied
Do you know your score?

An occasional prayer
Might wipe out one sin
But not if you're praying
That your team will win

Choices...so many
Go wrong or go right
Can determine if you
Will enter the light

I am not religious
But I know I'd choose
Which ever location
Has comfortable shoes!!!!

A child arrives today...
Unencumbered, new life in your world
No dreams yet, ideas, are still light years away
Your image of them has yet to be unfurled
Perfect, amusing, not knowing what's to come
No imprints have been made, a blank slate in your arms
You promise the world, to keep your child safe
Unknown situations set off your new alarms
Taking their world in, they look up wide eyed
The world that they see is one that you will shape
But now as you hold them, and watch them drift to sleep
This bundle of wonder makes your eyes go all agape
This child has changed you, it's already plain to see
You take in all you see, remember each moment as it goes
A blank slate, unpainted canvas, waiting to be formed
You see your mum's eyes, and also your father's nose
You're full of dreams and ambitions of  who this child will be
You have so much to tell them, a lifetime to be friends
Experiences are waiting, but now....they need to rest
You kiss your new child, your miracle...say Amen
There is one more  thing say....Welcome and Hello.

Every night before I sleep
I touch a picture on my way
A picture of two people
Who I've not met to this day
They watch my every waking move
I know they follow me around
I try to justify my life to them
In response, they make no sound
They raised a daughter...Megan
She is the most important thing to me
The picture is her parents
Her dad's been gone since she was three
I feel them sometimes, watching
I hope they look on her with pride
I know that I will meet them
When I reach the other side
The product of their union
Makes me proud she is my wife
I thank them on my way to bed
For it was them that gave her life
I know I would have liked them
And I hope they feel the same
I know their time here was a short one
But, I'm awful glad they came
Charlie and Margaret Edwards
I'm sure you'll let me know
If I cross the line a smidgen
And if across the line I go
I know you both are watching
so there's one thing I must do
I love your daughter Megan
I just want to say "Thank You"

I've had enough of winter
I've had enough of snow
I handle freezing weather
Just like an eskimo

My snowblower is finished
It's blown more than it should
It's blown more snow this winter
Than the whole **** neighborhood

Spring....when the hell you coming?
When will you be here?
I'll close my eyes and I might miss you
That is my biggest fear

Last summer we set records
With the **** oppressive heat
We did the same with snow this winter
We had nearly 7 feet!!

I saw some grass last Tuesday
But, by Wednesday it was lost
Buried by a fresh snow dumping
Preceeded by a sudden frost

The sidewalk plow has torn up
Ninety square feet of my lawn
I won't find all of the damage
Until all the snow is gone

I promise that next summer
I will not once complain
Because I'd rather have the heat way up
Than shovel snow...or pump out rain

Spring...when are you coming?
When will you be here?
I'll sleep with one eye open
So, I'll be up when you appear!!!

Pumpkins carved and brightly lit
Children knocking at the door
Celebrate All Hallows Eve
With candy by the score

Somewhere on the moon you'll see
A shadow in the light
Celebrate All Hallows Eve
With spirits in the night

Don't let a black cat cross your path
It signifies bad luck
Celebrate All Hallows Eve
As the children run amuck

Avoid the haunted houses
Who knows what you may find
Celebrate All Hallows Eve
Keep the darkness far behind

Keep the werewolves howling
Let the ghosts and witches fly
Celebrate All Hallows Eve
And look for shadows in the sky

I remember growing up with Mum
I had so many "uncles'", though I don't remember one
She said that she loved us lots
though we really never knew
Just what was there for two young kids to do

Apartment blocks and trailer parks
these were home till rent was due
Then we pulled a runner in the night
Running off was nothing new
When times got tough we made a move
I don't think she really tried
She told us that she loved us lots
But deep down, I think she lied

I've been running on this road
Though I do not know what from
Something deep inside me keeps me
running on and on
I can not say just what it is
That leads me down this road
It's just something deep inside me
Something hidden, I don't know

Stepping over bottles in the living room
Stepping over bottles in the hall
Scorch marks on the old **** rug
Numbers written on the wall

An ashtray full of last nights dreams
The light is filtered through the haze
It's almost time to run again
I step through the bottle maze

I've been running on this road
Though I do not know what from
Something deep inside me keeps me
running on and on
I can not say just what it is
That leads me down this road
It's just something deep inside me
Something hidden, I don't know

One day I will find my way
But for now, I'm running hard
I still sleep with one eye open
My mind is always keeping guard

I remember broken bottles
And the dust lit by the sun
Scorch marks and the phone calls
It means it's nearly time to run

I've been running on this road
Though I do not know what from
Something deep inside me keeps me
running on and on
I can not say just what it is
That leads me down this road
It's just something deep inside me
Something hidden, I don't know

If I say I love you
Does that make me weak?
Am I stronger for not showing
Or is it better that I speak
I'm crazy when I'm with you
I'm crazy when I'm not
If I say I love you
Am I better off or not?

My mind is doing circles
My stomach feels the same
I don't know just what I'm feeling
Is it real or just a game
My body just can't figure
Which way that it should go
I'm sure the right direction
Is one my heart will know

I love you girl, like crazy
You know you tie me up in knots
I'm worse when I'm not with you
You control all of my thoughts
I love you girl, like crazy
I'm just a wreck when you're not here
I don't trust myself completely
I need to hold you, have you near

Today my world is darker

There's a shadow on my mind

We lost another fighter

But, that's what God designed

He took our friend too early

We weren't set to let her go

But she's in a better place now

And we have to let her know

We are thinking of her always

And her fight, we'll carry on

Her battle against cancer

Is still a battle to be won

Tonight, the sky's a little brighter

Ruth will smile on our world

And her star will get much stronger

As the darkness is unfurled

We all feel slightly empty

Because we couldn't say goodbye

But, there's ways to overcome that

Just open up and try

We'll surely miss her smile

And the way she made us feel

I know this happened, quickly

It all just seems so **** surreal

But, keep her memory close now

She would not want us to fret

For in truth, she's the bestest Angel

That heaven's ever  gonna get

We know we all will miss her

And you know this is the truth

She's is no longer in pain now

It's time to say goodbye to Ruth.

rural or urban
urban or rural
no matter who says it
it always sounds turrible

It came out all wrong
when joe biden tried it
tonight watching the news
our newscaster fried it

two little words
that everyone knows
say them together
your mouth sounds all froze

city or country
nor urban or rural
they both mean the same
But the second pair sounds turrible

Just a kiss
that's all I need
to show me how you feel

A simple kiss
And nothing more
will show me this is real

I've got this feeling
and I know you do
That our souls are as one
But you know what
I need from you
Just one kiss before we're done

I need a kiss
And nothing more
To prove you love me true

Just one small kiss
Is all I ask
To make me one with you

I've got this feeling
and I know you do
That our souls are as one
But you know what
I need from you
Just one kiss before we're done

I see your eyes
They tell me yes
But your lips must seal the deal

To make my heart
Be one with yours
And show me love is real

I've got this feeling
and I know you do
That our souls are as one
But you know what
I need from you
Just one kiss before we're done

I'll never ask
Another one
For something such as this

For you're my one
and only one
And you just proved it with a kiss

it wasn't many years ago
Everything changed
Our world
Our perceptions
Our lives as a whole

it wasn't many years ago
The Towers tumbled

it wasn't many years ago
We grieved
We still grieve

it wasn't many years ago
We became stronger

it wasn't many  years ago
We were reborn

it wasn't many years ago
We came together
As one

it wasn't many years ago
We cried
For man

Twelve years ago.....

A gentle giant lay his head
Down for one last sleep
He looked at me as if to say
You did your best, don't weep
You shared your life and love with me
You saved me, gave me life
Now, it's time for you to love again
With mum, my mum, your wife
I will run and play, we'll meet again
By the rainbow bridge I'll wait
I'll be there, when it's your time
Don't forget me, don't be late
It's time for you to let me go
It's best for all concerned
Keep me close and don't forget
What I taught, and what you learned
Love is unconditional
Love is also free
I will watch for you from here
If you will watch for me
He looked again, and laid his head
No more needles little man
Now close your eyes, and go to sleep
We will see you when we can
Through you we both are better
Stronger than before you came
We will not forget your smile
And on our hearts is burned your name

I am now slightly older than I was a while ago
and I have a question I need answered in my life before I go
can anybody tell me exactly what "it" is
can you tell me where to find "it", can I lose "it" with a kiss

I hear tell of some parents screaming when they learn "it"'s lost
I don't know just what "it" looks like, or exactly what "it" cost
But, to hear the parents yelling, "it" must really cost a lot
Can anybody tell me, is "it" something that I've got?

I hear movie stars all have "it", musicians have "it" too
Nobody can explain "it", or exactly what "it" do
I went looking for"it" last week, thought I had "it", but did not
I got arrested trying to buy "it", in the end I did not

My wife says someone has "it", and I look and I don't see
She shows me people who have lost "it", and it's all the same to me
I don't have "it", can not find "it", wouldn't want "it", too much fuss
I told someone at the Legion, she said she lost "it" on the bus

Now, that made it more confusing, It made my head just spin
She sat there and she told me, behind a wicked little grin
She said she had "it", and she lost "it", in fact she gave "it" away
I asked her, if "it" was worth "it",  she said "it" really made her day

So, I sit here with my question, can you tell me what "it" is?
I just don't understand "it", is there something that I missed?
I see people I'm told have "it", but I can't tell from afar
And I've met people, who have lost "it", gave " it " up in their Dad's car

My wife says that I have 'it", I smile as if I really know
So I tell her that she has "it" too, even though " it" doesn't show
I ask her if she wants  one more, she just smiles and nods her head
She tell me, "You've still got "it", and then she leads me off to bed...."

I'm so confused....

To go into the future
To the past you must return
To find what you've forgotten
And what you must re-learn
The present is the present
It's a step upon the way
But, to go into the future
You must go back today

Find out what you've been missing
What it is that you must know
To go into the future
The past will surely show
You don't have to go long back
Sometimes the past is near
There see, now time's passing
And the past was present here

Once you make it to the future
Are you sure you're really there?
For what you're living is still present
It's not the future, to be fair
So, going back will teach you
The future's out of reach
You may as well try counting
Sand pebbles on a beach

Learn from where you've come from
And make a better now
The lessons in your past
will surely teach you how
To truly see the future
Is not as easy as it seems
To truly see the future
Is just something in your dreams.