happiness is a cheeky so-and-so

Phil has been busy editing poems for Patience, and just sent me a batch. Here is the first one, a bit of joy....

happiness is a cheeky so-and-so

happiness waking up in the morning
happiness happiness
find happiness in grandkids gladness
they keep you young and one on the way singing

happiness crowds queues laughing
happiness happiness
in your chest happiness overalls
I’ll assist you wrap it all in healing bringing

happiness the glugging sound of
happiness happiness
would you like a cup of
happiness? – the dog just smiled at me

(are we going up the dancers?)

May, Audrey, Edna, Marion
2009

the jargon

Below is the poem we made with the group 'talking heads' at Walthew House. Walthew House http://www.walthewhouse.org.uk is an independent local charity supporting people in Stockport who are blind, visually impaired, Deaf or hard of hearing or who have dual sensory loss. We were made very welcome by the group, I learnt lots and look forward to hearing about the next session with the group (I'll be of on my maternity leave by then!)


the jargon

terminology:
I’m registered blind

the word blind is very final
people
get embarrassed by words
but I’ve always faced the world
blind
eyes of bone

some boys kicked
the stick out of my hand, said
“Now go look for it,” said
unacceptable words, not-PC
always interested me, the words
I am totally blind
a spade’s a spade
an indicator cane
a symbol
a guide cane to
measure from your foot to your breastbone

go through a grieving
lost vision
lost independence
grieving
lightsudden flewbird
go through a long time
the bitter twist fills a void
Blind Beggarman Pew always
bringing the black spot

language, jargon:
visually impaired

how small my disability
from the foot
to the top of the heart-bone
born blind:
went to schools for the blind
the sunshine homes
colours mix with words for me
anger with red traffic lights
what you can see and what I can’t is

I don’t get any older
in the shaving mirror.

thistle in may

it’s a slow process all the flowers waking
caution restricts the tulip field
snowdrops the first
the trees blessing daffodils
the light, a relief
a relief (the darling)
comes slowly
you squirm: God, I’m coming to life
seize the sun
the sky-blue, the buttercup
take your part in the human race
attend all your check-ups
cut a thistle in May
the dancing season has started
little flowers pink and jump
blooms as big as cabbageheads
(follow all dietary recommendations)
cut it in June
it’ll be back soon

speak poem
February 2009

Further info, from Better Health Channel website, Victorian Department of Human Services, Australia
During convalescence, it may be beneficial to set goals for each day which will aid in your recovery. Be guided by your doctor, but general suggestions include:
* Too much bed rest in most cases isn't good for you, particularly if you are elderly. Maintain some level of activity, even if it means just sitting or standing up occasionally. Try getting dressed and moving around the house if possible.
* Ensure your muscles, heart and lungs are working efficiently by gradually increasing your level of activity each day.
* Make sure you get enough rest. Listen to your body and alternate periods of activity with periods of relaxation. Be prepared to say 'no' to things you can't cope with and visitors you don't want to see.
* Keep in touch with family and friends and maintain your social activity, even by telephone.
* Eat a healthy diet that includes plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. If your appetite is poor, try eating small amounts of nutritious foods regularly. Remember that eating well is more important than eating more.
* As your strength returns, find time to do things you enjoy. Keep up with hobbies and aim to get out of the house regularly, even for short outings.