Month: December 2021

Who, if not me will remember…

That she lay in Room 724,

at the very end of a long, austere hallway?

Who will remember the length of her hair,

and to which side of the pillow her head lay; which of her cheeks touched the pillow, as she gathered her last, labored breaths?

I studied her.

Each rise and fall of her chest, noted which temple was kissed by the imperfection of her skin spot.

I am a visitor, looking through a similar plastic visor as all the doctors and nurses; we all look like surgeons. CV-19-PPE

My arms covered in the same plastic, swishing with each deft movement.

How many have thought “her hair looks quite lovely”?

Though it is hard to see her, in this state.

This state is not imperfect.

Her life has been a landmark,

and a guide for many.

Home has always been on Loretta;

because she was there.

Now, she points the way to another home

and reminds us…

That this is not our home,

we are only guests.

Landmarks, of what is to come.

(A Farewell to Melissa’s Cottage Cafe)

Melissa’s [drew] in that cozy feeling you [got] when visiting your favorite grandmother. From the staff, to the squirt of lemon in your sweet tea—it all feels like home:

Walking thru the door…as the floorboards creak

Eyeing around for my favorite seat

As we are seated

laughs and smiles fill the air

Because at the door

Is left, all despair

So for you who is reading this

Anxious, ready to feast

I wish you a great meal

so to you

Bon Appetit

-Justin Kinder 9/23/2017

Small business adds worth, that cannot be measured. We have lost more than soups and wraps. Here is a “retirement rap” track Kim that laid down (before a pandemic forced her and her husband to lay down their small business—that meant much to so many).

We share stories ‘bout our babies oh so sweet

Especially pictures of their cute little feet

They make me smile from ear to ear

but that’s not all, cuz when you come down here

You’re gettin coffee, a burrito—maybe some lunch

You must know I love you a whole big bunch

With your stylish clothes and trendy hair

I’ve always known you’s goin somewhere

Now you’re jumpin ship; you’re gettin out

You best believe, their ain’t no doubt

This is your day—your time has come

To make [Yourself] #1

So rest, relax—do your nails

Walk about some happy trails

You did the work, you played the part

Now I say sincerely, with all my heart

You’re a beautiful girl, both kind and smart

That’s also blessed with a big ole’ heart

It’s not enlarged—no, not in size!

But in volume of love you’d win a prize

So, if you’re ever bored or just get a minute

Come get a drink…and I’ll put something in it

<3 Kim