gifts – Mandibelle16

#OctPoWriMo Day 27: Poem —« Christmas Tree Delight » #amwritingpoetry

For OctPoWriMo Day 27, the prompt is about your favorite time of year. The poem type is a Decuain. There are 3 set choices of rhyme scheme: ababbcbcaa, ababbcbcbb, or ababbcbccc.

Credit: Алсу Ягудина via Unsplash.

I love the Christmas tree tall, limbs prickled —

Pine; gleaming lights strung on branches bared.

An angel with her star sits atop it.

Hapless, limbs flung out Jim Shore fine-carved;

Sweet manger scenes arranged with fair —

Amounts of crystal angels, glass globes red.

Balls, stars, and ribbon sparkle light glares;

Beneath the tree, presents gleam all wrapped.

Aroma of food, squares cheese, sausage, sit;

Euphoric, yet the family photo twists.

Fiction: Just In Time #amwritingfiction

Credit: Caroline Hernandez via Unsplash.

She woke in the middle of the night as the heat turned off and shivered. Anika’s PJ’s were thin and worn through but she loved them. The pants were purple with cat-faces, and her top darker purple with one giant cat-face.

She was 10-years-old and afraid of school tomorrow; the kids at school bullied her. She and her family weren’t from ‘around here’ and their hair and skin was lighter than most other students. A girl twice Anika’s size named Wanda, hurt her most.

She sighed in bed and held the covers tight against her body. Her sister Charlotte who was nine, slept beside Anika, as she turned over in bed as her PJ pants tore.

“What was that?” Charlotte sat up half-asleep and rubbed her eyes.

“Just my PJ’s, mom will have to fix them. My other pair are too small. Do you have any old ones?”

Charlotte patted Anika. “No, mine gave out when I fell running up the stairs. Mom won’t buy us PJ’s now, it’s almost Christmas. She told me she can only repair them so many times too.”

Anika nodded and flicked on her lamp. She peered at her time-piece — a special gift. “My watch has the date on it. Today’s December 18th, so in a few more days we’ll get Christmas presents.”

“That’ll be fun. I’d like jeans and a pink top too.”

“Oh, me as well.”

“Really, Anika what color shirt?” Charlotte pulled the covers up over them both.

“I like pink, but maybe light-blue’s better? I want a new hat and mittens for when it’s cold outside like today, in purple with lots of stuffing.” Anika and Charlotte jumped.

They heard a thump outside their door and scrambled out of bed; they opened their bedroom door.

“Who’s there?” Anika’s whisper was overpowered by the furnace turning on again, but both girls heard footsteps creaking. “It’s too early to be Santa. Did someone break in?”

“There’s no Santa, Anika.” Charlotte muffled a laugh and shoved her. Another thump and a few bumps sounded behind them and they gasped.

Behind them stood a beautiful woman, her eyes sparkling in the lamplight. The woman put her finger to her glossed lips, signalling both girls to be quiet.

Anika and Charlotte jumped in wonder and the woman put her finger to her lips again. “Shush.”

She pointed to their bed where a few shiny packages lay. “Shhh, don’t wake your parents. They’ll have gifts when they wake too.”

Anika stared in awe at the woman; she dressed with elegance and had a kind face. “You’re not Santa Clause and it’s not Christmas, yet.”

The woman put her hands on her hips, her eyes raised to the ceiling for a moment. “I’m different from Santa , and your mom and dad knew you needed new Pj’s and a few things, so I’m here to drop them off.”

Charlotte squeeled and Anika peered at the woman. “How did you get in? We were at our bedroom door before you were here, weren’t we?”

“That’s a secret Santa and I share.” The woman winked and pushed her hair back; she pulled on her gloves. “Now, open your packages and I’ll be on my way. I’ve lots of other clients who need help. Thank your parents in the morning, but keep quiet now.”

Both Anika and Charlotte nodded and turned to the presents on their bed. They watched as the beautiful woman closed their bedroom door and disappeared with a wave.

They tore open their packages trying not to crinkle the wrapping paper. Each received new PJ’s, an outfit for school, mittens, hats, and warm scarves for the cold winter.

Both girls tried to be quiet but squealed when each pulled out a planner and pen to help them keep track of their chores, school work, and other things.

Both girls put away their stuff and in the morning, hugged their parents hard, thankful for the gifts the lovely woman had left.

#MayDay Prompt Day 30: Poem — Lauranelle — “Gifting” #amwritingpoetry

For Day 30, the prompt is giving a gift and receiving a gift.

Credit: Arnal Hasanovic via Unsplash.

Lauranelle — aba, bcb, cdc, ded, efe, fbf, ggA

Each Christmas and Birthday my favorite —

Task’s choosing gifts when I’m most able.

For best friends, family; gifts they’ll savor.

Small gestures, recalling friends labelling.

And packing gifts bright, tissue, bags, and cards;

Recalling what people love most — catering.

So, you can’t buy for all — then mail cards;

Limit yourself, to those closest.

Dear family and friends most regarded,

It’s special receiving surprise gifts most,

Presents are a warm glow, a giant hug —

When someone gifts with care and focus.

And Christmas is my season beloved;

To spoil those close, and give gifts to others.

Some given to those in hard times lugging.

Forget not Jesus, God’s gift best loved;

Reason we all give, eat, enjoy, engage —

With our dear ones, those we miss and love.

Sometimes the truest gift is time spent, doled;

Moments with others develops our souls;

So, all we’re given with grace we savor.

#MayDay Prompt Day 12: Poem — Constanza — “Cash Enough” #amwritingpoetry

For Day 12 the prompt is to buy something with money saved or with money given as a gift.

Constanza — 5 or more 3 line stanzas with 8 syllables a line

abb, acc, add, aee, aff, etc.

Credit: Michelle Spollen via Unsplash.

Allowance as small children spent,

On summer holidays and gifts;

Saved for later each week in thrift.

*****

Money from our birthdays spent,

From family also was given;

Some used, some saved in provision.

*****

Sometimes we had some event,

To use our allowances;

Or with birthday monies browse.

*****

Some cash tithed for God’s consent,

Other for presents, for Christmas;

To spend on others’ birthday lists.

*****

Some money we saved, relented,

On books, clothes, some childhood toy;

Some for ice cream, dessert enjoyed.

*****

Birthday or allowance content,

We learned to save and to spend;

We were taught how to give, to lend.

*****

All our spending from one jar meant —

We kept our meager cash, to save;

With humble charity behaved.

*****

Now money concepts change, prevent;

Many from spending, saving well;

Is there cash enough, can you tell?

Causebox Fall 2018: Intro Box #Causebox #sociallyconscious

I was super excited to receive this in the mail a couple of weeks back. Not only for the great items, but also for the charities and causes Causebox Supports. I loved that I could see the items I would receive, even if they had different styles or color choices I couldn’t choose as a new member. You can sign up as a yearly member too have this option.

Check out Causebox.com today as they have a great Cyber Monday special on, in the above link. The items in this particular box I loved, as they form parts of many Christmas presents!! The entire box is worth over $250, but since it is a membership, can be bought seasonally from $55 to $60 US. I had a coupon for my first box for $10 OFF.

Causebox searches the world for the best “socially conscious products.” They deliver these products seasonally to customers in a “beautifully designed” box. Each Causebox “highlights companies and products,” which put “people before profit,” and help make the world an improved place.

Artist Designed Postcard, Top Right.

From the October Causebox, this vegan-leather clutch was available in black or tan/cream & handcrafted by artisans in Jaipur, India. It’s magnetically fastens and has thoughtfully designed features such as roomy, open pockets, zippered storage, and a card sleeve. Jaipur unites chic, modern designs with timeless craftsmanship that empowers artisan communities located in central India. I love this for nights out, & the tan/cream vegan leather goes with any outfit. (Worth $54).

I knew right away, this scarf was the perfect present for my Godmom, Aunt J. It was also created in India, and loomed by artisans there. It’s the perfect staple scarf for fall/winter/spring and Causebox partnered with Bloom & Give, to sponsor tuition for 50 girls to attend the Dashak Camp in Rajasthan, India. They receive education and empowerment here, which has changed the course of their lives. (Worth $60).

These Soko Bow Earrings are gorgeous and timeless. They can be dressed up or down, and are handmade by artisans in Kenya. These artisans have been empowered with technological tools, which permit them to sustainably support themselves, learn, and develop as entrepreneurs. These are part of a present for a good friend. (Worth $42).

This beautiful eyeshadow pallet and brush — I kept. I adored the colors and the quality of the eyeshadow pigment. The brush is well-made and perfect for your crease of your eye or the corners. These nine eyeshadow colors are from the brand RealHer and are cruelty free. They are named with strong, empowering words for women/men to be their “own kind of beauty.” RealHer also donates a portion of their proceeds to charities that promote inclusion. (Worth $38.00)

I love Zoya nail polish, it’s such a great brand. The polish colors last a long time. I did not get the colors I wanted with these, but I know the right person will come along for this gift. Zoya is one of the first brands to come out with clean, long lasting nail polish. They are made in the US, but are without formaldehyde, toluene, dibutyl phthalate, camphor, and six other toxic chemicals, commonly found in conventional nail polish. (Worth $20)

Scentuals Grape Fruit and Turmeric Hand Repair Cream is made with 100 percent natural ingredients. It’s a rich and quick-absorbing hand cream that nourishes skin with Shea butter and Cocoa butter. It’s also enriched with Organic Argan, Sweet Almond oil, and Aloe. Besides being all organic in its product formulations, Scentuals also donates a percentage of their sales to the Canadian Cancer Society. (Worth $7.89)

PF Candle Co. began in a garage, and has become the “go to choice” for some of the trendiest boutiques across America. Their candles are hand-poured in L.A. with a love for “apothecary inspired amber jars.” Each of their candles is made with 100 percent soy wax and has phthalate-Free premium fragrance oils inside ( Worth $18).

One of the most popular and environmentally-friendly water bottle brands out there, S’Well water bottles replace plastic disposable water bottles, with ThermaSwell Technology that keeps drinks cold for 24-hours and hot for 12-hours. This bottle was 17 Oz, S’well also has a 9 Oz. Size and 24 Oz.

The latter, can fit a bottle of wine and keep it chilled. I have one of these from before, it washes well, and comes in a plethora of designs and finishes. I was excited to have this as a free add-on to the box, as in Canada the the 17 Oz. Bottles are worth $45 or more, depending on the design. What’s best about them, is that they’re durable, light, easily washed, and have the perfect top to drink from. I use them at home, on the go, in bed, etc. They never spill or break from dropping them. They prevent oceans full of plastic water bottles that don’t break down, and are made from recycled material (Worth $45).

#OctPoWriMo – Day 10/ Sunday Writing Prompt: Free Verse – “Equisite Possibilities” #amwriting #poetry

OctPoWriMo Day 10 has a theme Prompt about control and power in a positive sense, more like empowerment. I’m combining this prompt with the Sunday Writing Prompt of September 24, 2017 by Scribblersdip of MindLoveMisery’s Menagerie.

——

Credit: Scribblersdip MindLoveMisery’s Menagerie

——

It’s wonderment,

This feeling, racing through,

My veins,

Blood pulsing back to limbs;

An exquisite kind of power,

Empowerment —

With pain.

I’m all the better —

For it;

Fighting, struggling,

Achieving aspirations.

We soon recognize,

Key differences,

Between fantasy,

And reality.

Which dreams are reasonable,

Or will never be;

We can find strength,

When failing;

Learning always occurs.

What hurts the most,

Makes us humble,

And those who stumble,

In clouds need —

Realize their talents.

For we can succeed,

Beyond the pain,

Discovering our capabilities,

A feeling that’s exquisite,

Addictive endorphins;

In knowing your rare talents.

To change your life,

In a moment’s

glimmer;

Tracing the lines,

Destiny’s gifted.
——

Saturday Mix: Poem – Cascading Etherees – “Silhouettes and Blessings” #poetry #dVerse #amwriting #SaturdayMix

Thanks to Paul Scribbles from the Poet’s Pub for hosting a #dVerse prompt reply on blessings. I’m combining this #dVerse prompt missed with last week’s Saturday Mix Prompt from Teresa of MindLoveMisery’s Menagerie‘s Prompt on doing a silhouette poem.

——–

———–

They’re not completely obvious, often —

Difficult to find, shadowed in,

Darkness, silhouettes hidden by,

Electrifying light so,

Tangerine-orange that —

All behind it is,

Hidden, pitch black,

They are masked,

Easy to,

Miss.

—–

But,

I know,

You have them,

Thankfulness for —

Blessings in disguise.

Shadowed, hidden behind,

Glaring light, such blaring noise,

Searching carefully, you’ll find them,

You’ll see all along what’s been taken,

For granted, unrecognized blessings.

—–

Sometimes they feel like curses, too much work,

Then, seeing others suffer you think,

Realize life’s not at all bad.

You’ve all your basic needs met,

You’ve extra money for,

Luxury and treats,

You’re well cared for,

God’s blessed you,

So share,

Give.

—–

Be,

Not mean,

Or spiteful,

To those who beg,

They need a little —

Help; some food, money to —

Make it through the day and —

Eat; find a place to sleep and to,

Clean up; they only want to be like us,

Have their needs met, with the odd treat too.

——

If only we all counted are blessings,

When we were richly cared for, when He,

Made sure we made a living.

Had money to survive.

To buy little extras.

To be comfortable,

Provided for.

We rest, they —

Shiver,

Cold.

——-

They’re

Hurting.

But it’s more,

Than the unloved —

Silhouettes.

Never seen, covered by —

The light in the background scene,

Never visible, dark, unseen,

We miss seeing them these figures who’ll,

Disappear in dark, when sun falls and sets.

———

Photo Challenge: Poem – Blank Verse – “The Nymphs’ Allure” #amwriting #poetry #mythology

Thanks to NEKNEERAJ of MindLoveMisery’s Menagerie for hosting this week’s photo prompt.

—–

——

Come in, come play, the water’s warm and fine,

We’re all having fun, clothing unnecessary.

Any nymph knows her body is pleasing.

But little we find young men who wander,

To visit us a while — let yourself rest.

Let your body be beguiled by us.

We’re girls full of laughter; blossoms —

To eat which are tasty and keep you near,

From leaving too soon; it’s a party here,

A never ending happy hour, wine flows —

From Dynosios cup; so drink up, sit back.

Time stands still and you’re forever a youth;

Caught in this moment, we’ll all feel —

Forever blissed; stay amongst us spirits,

Of the earth, of trees, grass, wood, and water.

We care for the forest, lush paths followed,

Hideaways, treasures, meant to last.

Gift of the gods, for us having beauty,

Like yours; but we offer you — explore.

Spend your eternity here, we see so few,

Such attractive men, so stay find pleasure,

Aid us keeping the world alive and safe.

For future generations, for our —

Children, and plenty of youthful men.

Your life could be dreamlike, could be blissful.

Come in, come play, the water’s warm and fine.

—–

B&P’s Shadorma: “For the Blessed and Those Who Need” #amwriting #poetry #shadorma

Thanks to MindLoveMisery’s Menagerie for hosting this B&P’s Shadorma prompt on the holiday season and Dickensian goodwill towards men.

—–

—–

Gathering with,

Our families a bond,

There, despite —

The distance.

Sharing our lives together,

Meeting, laughing, joy.

—-

Siblings,

Connecting; though years —

In childhood,

Have passed by.

Fiances, partners, meeting —

New loved ones enfold.

—-

Families,

They grow and alter.

Babies too,

Added and —

Some family sadly they pass,

Onto their forever home.

—

And on the —

New Year, we gather,

Again to —

Ring in a —

Better year, with promise; hope,

Less pain, more grace known.

—–

So I pray,

For all of you, when —

You pour the —

Champagne and —

Kiss your most beloved one,

Think too, of suffering.

—

Those whose holidays,

Have less cheer, are hard.

Those who fight,

Have trials.

Those without home, wealth, and —

Know not where food comes.

—–

For those who,

Are trying to feed,

Little mouths.

They go with —

Out; but they need energy,

To work, to provide.

—-

For those who’ve,

Demons inside, they can’t —

Struggle more,

And survive.

For those who don’t know there’s hope,

Think and aid them all.

—-

Help comes in,

Many ways; talking,

Mere words which,

Keep the edge,

Far away; give friendship, gifts —

Something showing thought.
—-

You can help,

Volunteer to kids,

Charity,

Read with them.

You can do many thoughtful,

Things; don’t forget.

—-

For those snug,

At home and gifted to know,

Warmth and love.

Abundantly,

Blessed; may we keep the —

Season in our hearts.

—-

#OctPoWriMo – Day 20 – Tetracyts – “Forgive” #amwriting #poetry

Day 20 Prompt: White“White has so many connotations, white flag, white hat – hero in the old west movies, white – purity, white – clean, white light, white clouds, and the list could go on. What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of white? Start from there and write for ten minutes.”

———

Reclining Woman 20th Century Credit: Aspire Auctions

——-

White,

As Blank,

As the stare,

On your pale face,

Wished to tell you the truth but it wasn’t —

Enough; you appeared sickly, tears rolled down.

—–

Anger, pain unrolled,

Exposed your soft,

Lovely,

Skin.

—

I’m,

Not the,

Best person,

But I love you,

Does that count for anything or are my —

Sins to severe? Your eyes blink and I hope.

—

Catatonia,

Black eyes so,

Empty,

Scared.

—

Ice,

Marble,

Narnian.

Carved face stoic.

Was trying to heal us, bring the truth to light.

Your eyes begin sparkling, what was cold, now’s —
—-

Beauty alive,

Life spinning,

Grace gifts,

Warmth.

—

Joy,

Hair flies,

Hands emote and —

Your glad laugh rings.

Distracting beauty forgives; peace of mind.

——–

Tetracrys

“Tetracrys [is] a poetic form invented by Ray Stebbing. [It] consists of at least 5 lines of 1, 2, 3, 4, 10 syllables (total of 20). Tetractys can be written with more than one verse, but must follow suit with an inverted syllable count. Tetractys can also bereversed and written 10, 4, 3, 2, 1.

Double Tetractys: 1, 2, 3, 4, 10, 10, 4, 3, 2, 1
Triple Tetractys: 1, 2, 3, 4, 10, 10, 4, 3, 2, 1, 1, 2, 3, 4, 10.”

Please see Shadow Poetry for more information.

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4	5	6	7	8	9	10
11	12	13	14	15	16	17
18	19	20	21	22	23	24
25	26	27	28	29	30	31

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