A Special Review of "Weeds"

I would like to share this special Kirkus Review with you. I am pleased that my poetry spoke to their reviewers. Self-publishing is difficult; support from peers, reviewers, and others is invaluable. 

I would like to thank all of those who have read my book, and those who have taken the time to review my book(s) on their blog and on Amazon.com. I want to especially thank authors Beth Hoffman, EC Stilson, Marion Witte and Anna Ready. Thank you for your continued support.

You can click on the books in my sidebar, to be taken to Amazon.com to see my books, or visit my author page.

I hope this review will encourage you to read my poetry book. I hope my poetry will speak to you, too.

From Kirkus Reviews:

 "Aging, betrayal, inner reflection, a dismal view from a street  corner—something in this collection will speak to nearly everyone. As they  make their way through the emotional journey, some readers will connect to  the poems that travel through darkness to find the sparks of light that  remind us to keep going.

 Morris offers warm respite from the storm, like a friend with whom to  compare visions of dark clouds.

 A worthy read, especially for the disillusioned."

The Robin Moth

The Robin Moth is a Giant Silk Moth,

one of the largest in North America.

It has a wingspan of 4 1/2 - 6 inches.

 Bill recently rescued this magnificent giant 
moth from a truck stop fuel pump island, 
during one very cold night in Pennsylvania. 

 Bill took the moth into his truck, and 

kept him warm through the night.

They drove from Clearfield, Pennsylvania

to Scranton, Pennsylvania together.

 Once warm, the moth began to fly 
around inside the truck. 
Bill had to contain him until he 
could release him in the morning. 

By morning, it was warm enough outside to 
safely release the beautiful giant Robin Moth.

 Bill released him in a wooded field 
near the truck stop where he was staying.

 The Robin Moth naturally lives 
in woodlands and orchards, 

 preferring heavy foliage.

 Once common, their numbers are 
declining due to the use of pesticides.

Bill saved this one. Thanks, Bill!

~All Photos taken by Bill Morris~

Home Fire

For many decades, Dee had lived in the home under a family trust. Windows of the home were filled with boxes, knick-knacks, and toys no children ever played with. She lived alone; no visitors had come in many years. Though neighbours complained about the clutter, the authorities had no legal grounds to interfere. 

The fence could not hide the declined state of the property. It was obvious that things were growing beyond Dee's control. The smell and the mess were unbearable, as her pets were neglected too.  Cars in various stages of disrepair lined the driveway, also full of junk, trash, and bags of unknown items.

When she could no longer even make it to her mailbox, she would just sit in her yard. This was finally brought to the attention of the authorities, who deemed her unable to care for herself and placed her in assisted living.

The old home quickly and cheaply sold, as the trust had expired along with Dee's removal from the home. Cleaning it out was a major undertaking, and it was unknown if it could even be saved. The horrors of the home and what it held had long been neighbourhood discussion. Perhaps now answers would come out, and people could understand how this happened.

The grounds were carefully cleaned. Items were removed and hauled away. The property was gradually uncovered. Many men worked hard to clean away decades of filth and grime, both inside the house and out. After many long years, there was hope that the house may again come to life.

Until the morning that sirens broke the silence of the quiet neighbourhood. A devastating fire had started in the old unused chimney, apparently by curiosity seekers or squatters looking for a place to stay.

No one knew the story of Dee, her life, or how she came to live the life she had lived. Now no one would ever know. No one would ever learn the story of the home either, as it burned to the ground taking its secrets with it.

~Story & Photo by: McGuffy Ann Morris~

Linked to: Two Shoes Tuesday

Word Prompt: "Fire"

Stylin'

Stella, wearing her new bandanna!

Linked to: Aww Monday

The Wisdom of Hair

By Kim Boykin

On her nineteenth birthday, Zora has had enough. She decides she can no longer live with her alcoholic and Judy Garland-delusional mother.

She packs a bag, and with the help of a supportive teacher, she leaves town to attend a beauty school.

Zora thrives with the help of a mentor. She also falls hard for a hard drinking, handsome widower, convinced she can save him from himself.

Learning to fix hair, find beauty or make it where you are, she also learns how to live life, love, and eventually how to forgive.

This is a great summer read, with enjoyable and warmhearted characters. 

To Our Dad

Happy Father's Day

to the Best FurDad in the world!

~xoxo~

Love always, from your Girls,

Stella, Maggie, Grizelda, & Chloe Jo

with love and thanks

from Mom, too!

Bill, you are the Best!