Over the years, I have grown a small collection of books, poetry journals, and art on the walls in my small study. We have visited thrift stores in our area, and bought discarded books from libraries. Art from friends and small businesses and presses.

Old books with my mother’s handwriting are a treasure. These may become art collage journals.

I like to create arrangements that are simple and change every so often. It is interesting to see how colors and art work together. There is a conversation, it seems. One work says – see how art grows from a diffcult time. Another says – rest awhile.

So often there is a story. I see how we can learn and grow new creative chapters in our lives. New work that is better can grow, with patience and time. I reflect upon health and creativity often.

early light
clouds picture a poem
perhaps a haiku

small steps
one day at a time
sparrows in the yard

new space
on a few shelves
donated books

POEMS FROM OOSTBURG, WISCONSIN