Bud's Poetry By Category: Family

Family

My Mom and Dad were each married before. Dad came from Marquette, while Mom was born and raised in Escanaba, and spent some of her time growing up in Racine Wisconsin. I grew up knowing this family from my Mom's first marriage, The SIVERTSENS (Clyde, Dick, Terry, Nancy, Jay, Jim, & Cheryl).

I was a teenager when I first remember meeting my Dad's two daughters from his first marriage (Dottie, and Nancy), when they came down to visit.

Mom's family had lived in this area for a long time. Her maiden name was JOINT, and her Mom was Alma DUFORD-JOINT. Alma grew up on a farm in Schaffer, and her Dad Theophile DUFORD ran a General Store. Alma and her sister Edna were really good at playing music. They use to perform at The Strand and were known as the DUFORD SISTERS. Playing the piano and the violin. Alma, I was told by my Cousin Ruby DUFORD-FOSTERLING, use to play piano at the old theatre during the silent film era. She use to sneak in all of her nieces and nephews. Alma also taught piano lessons here in Escanaba, and performed with an orchestra locally. I had once met someone who had piano lessons from her, as well as talked with a cousin on the phone who had lessons.

Mom's Dad Adrien JOINT grew up in the Flat Rock area. His Mother was Mathilda BEAUCHAMP, was related to all the BEAUCHAMPS who lived in the Flat Rock area. They had BEAUCHAMP'S GROVE, where many relatives would gather. His Uncle Joe BEAUCHAMP was a harness maker. Adrien's parents Flavien JOINT and Mathilda BEAUCHAMP ran a boarding house here in Escanaba. I was fortunate to have met someone who had once boarded from them. I was fortunate enough to have known my Grandfather because he lived with us, a couple years before he passed away.

Dad's Family, the LEMIRE Family, lived in Marquette. His Mom's family came from Champion, they were the PINARD Family. Camille LEMIRE and Delia PINARD-LEMIRE passed away eleven years before I was born. Delia's Dad lost his first wife, and remarried a woman who had been married to a BELANGER.

One of the daughters, Exilia, married a man with the last name POISSON. POISSON is French, in English it is FISH. Auntie FISH lived here in Escanaba and use to come over every Sunday for the afternoon and for supper. She use to put Copenhagen(snuff) up her nose.

In 1942, Mom was pregnant with a baby girl. She didn't think the father of the girl was going to marry her. So they went down to Detroit and gave her up for adoption. Back then it was best to keep things a secret.

In 1999 while doing some genealogy, it was brought to my attention of a woman named Jeanne, who was looking for her Mom who gave her up. She listed her Mom's maiden name as JOINT. I e-mailed her, and we corresponded back and forth. She called and talked to Mom. She came up and got to meet up with Mom. It was a wonderful reunion. Jeannie had visited Mom a few times, until July 20^th 2001, the same month and day that Mom gave her up for adoption in 1942 that Mom passed away. Jeannie's words upon finding out was “she's left me again.” If you read my Passing Over chapter, you'll know that spirits don't leave us, their bodies just can not sustain us any longer when they have aged and become too frail.

There is nothing better than Family. Sure we have our differences, but their love and support is truly the most wonderful thing anyone could have. They are there for you, and you are there for them. Don't hold any grudges. Life is too short. Step back, count to 5, breathe in, breathe out, and embrace them for who they are. Love makes everything better. I love my family. Read along as I share poems about my family.

Index/poems

3 4 7 8 (2003)

8-Ball (2003)

A Cousin's Birthday (2002)

A Happy Birthday For John (2004)

A Song In Her Heart (2006)

A Wink Of A Guy (2001)

Alma (2003)

Alma's Photo Book (2015)

Alma's Photos (2015) different poem

Aunt Olive's Camp (2003)

Auntie Fish (2003)

Bell (2002)

Butterfly Wings (2005)

Celebrating This Special Day (2006)

Cheryl, A Special Sister (2003)

Coma (2017)

Cousin Donald (1993)

Cowboy Lake (1991)

Da Jaybird (2001)

Desirae (2020)

Different, Yet The Same (2004)

Down Mangum Road (1991)

Earthday Birthday (2004)

Family Game Time (2024)

Family Reunion 2005 (2005)

Family Tears (1993)

Guiding Spirit (2004)

Happy Birthday Jay & Marge (2004)

Happy Birthday Terry (2015)

Happy Mothers Day (Through The Years) (2000)

Harold (2021)

Harold, My Brother In law (2005)

Heavenly Mothers Day (2003)

I'll Always Be Here (2007)

In Spirit (2017)

Inside Me (2001)

Jake (2017)

Karen, A Special Cousin (2013)

Light Bulbs & Watermelon Seeds (2003)

Lost Family Found (2024)

Marie, A Special Cousin (1991)

My Brother Rich (2020)

My Brother Terry (2011)

My Cousin Arthur (2004)

My Dad (2003)

My Sister Jeannie (1999)

My Sister Cheryl (1991)

My Sisters, My Brothers (2001)

Nancy, Ode To A Sister (1991)

Paper Fortune Teller (2018)

Remembering Mom With Love (2001)

Rose (2022)

Rosemary, God Bless You (2002)

Rub (2003)

Same Song, Same Time (2006)

Sharing In The Loss (2001)

Si, What A Guy (1991)

Songs Mom Sang (2022)

Terry's Double (2018)

Thank You Dear Lord (For Jeannie) (1999)

Thanksgiving Memories (2022)

That Holiday Hare (2007)

The 45's (2021)

The Fuzzies (2004)

The Lilac Shrub (2003)

The Music And The Words (2004)

Toby (1991)

Toby: Goodbye For Now (1998)

When The Easter Bunny Came (2019)

Yes Dad, I Remember (2006)

You Were There For Me (2004)

Your Mother, Here (2006)

3 4 7 8

There are things that we remember

And many things we appreciate

Some are events we thought were great

For me it's the number 3 4 7 8

Those numbers are special to me

They ring a bell right straight at home

Connecting me to friends and family

And made me feel I was never alone

Over distance and over time

Receiving phone calls, from across that line

The many voices that I heard

Memories of people word for word

Some have passed, and some are still here

Their voices still ringing, in my ear

A long time connection, no longer there

The number's changed, but we still share

The number ended in 2002

When my life started anew

That number was dialed after, and this was the reply

"That number no longer exists," that number's time had died

In my heart, that number will always be great

But now there's nobody home at 3 4 7 8

This is the phone number I grew up with,

when I lived on North 14^th street

8 - Ball

I remember long ago, it was on a dark morning day

To my sister's house, that we were on our way

It was my brothers John & Jim, and sister Cheryl too

Snow was lightly falling, as we took in the view

It was Christmas time, and she always had presents to share

And she wanted us to come, so we could open them there

I'll never forget the feeling, when presents were passed to all

When I opened up mine, and there was an 8-Ball

She told me I should shake it, and answers I would know

So I followed her instructions, to see what it would show

I thought of a question, that I could address

Then I saw the answer, it said "Definitely Yes"

I asked it some more questions, to see where it would go

The answer to my next question, was "Assuredly No"

For every question asked, it always had an answer to

It always fascinated me, that it always knew

I don't recall the questions asked, or if they all came true

They were special memories, and I have quite a few

I don't know all the answers, of what will come to be

Only of what means the most, in my 8-Ball Memory

For those who don't know, an 8-Ball is also a ball where you shake it

and turn it over and it gives you answers to questions asked.

Thanks to my sister Nancy, I had one in my childhood days.

A Cousin's Birthday

Each Birth

on this Earth

Has so much worth

As I am told

As we grow old

The price in gold

Until we fold

Oh how the days

And ancestry ways

Forever stays

For we are we

And can we see

To forever be

Cousins touch

In blood and such

Relatives love you very much

As days ahead

So much is said

Until we lay our head

Our spirits led

Hearts are here

To love them dear

And bring them cheer

Without the fear

A Birthday Cake

Without the ache

For goodness sake

And a handshake

A hug for you

A missing clue

With all anew

And love that's true

A Birthday Wish

With food on dish

No smell of fish

And doesn't squish

Love from the heart

Upon your chart

Life is an art

We end, we re-start

May this day be bright

With all your might

You have the right

Embrace love's light

Happy Birthday, goodnight

A Happy Birthday For John

You've come such a long way

To be here on this special day

You've given up a lot, and gained so much

And learned about the parental touch

It's not easy, to turn your life around like that

Too many people get caught up, in life's trap

But you have succeeded and done so well my brother

I'm so proud, and so would be our Father and Mother

They're looking down on you with a smile

Beaming with joy, thinking "that's our child"

"Although physically we can't be there with you son"

"Our spirits hold you closely, we're proud of what you've done"

With a little Angel, in your life's parade

And a family that you lovingly made

You've come such a long way

So I could wish you....a Happy Birthday

This is for my brother John who's birthday is today.

He has come such a long way in his life.

He got married, and they've adopted a little girl who is 8 years old.

He's given up drinking, then recently gave up smoking.

He surely deserves a very happy birthday for all he has done and accomplished.

Note: After this poem, he adopted two more little girls. They grew up to be wonderful women.

A Song In Her Heart

She came to this world, with a song in her heart
To share it with many, before her time to depart
She sang with a mixture of joy and of love
Memories of a time, she was thinking of

Life wasn’t easy for this woman I knew
Hard times aplenty, but music helped her through
Losses and burdens, still she kept up the fight
Raising a family, her music was her light

She sang a lullaby to help each child sleep
Yet often you’d find her ready to weep
So many problems people have to face
Using her songs to bring her to a happy place

I remember the songs as a child, that she would sing
And the love inside each one, that they would bring
I remember the way she would sing and smile
The memories today, take me back there awhile

Oh Mom, thanks for the songs you shared with me
Songs that were sung, with a voice so lovingly
Thanks for the gift of music, you carried with you
Passed down to me, to help me get through

Dedicated to my Mother, Mary Lucille Joint-Sivertsen-Lemire,

for sharing her love and music in song with us

A Wink Of A Guy

Dave's spirit began long ago, with his birth

Which started his life, on this great planet Earth

He grew up to be, a great man indeed

And started his own family, for them he did feed

He worked at Mead, as a Sanitation Engineer

Oh his days off, he relaxed with a beer

Sometimes you'd catch him, watching the Packers play

If they won the game, then it sure made his day

He would be bowling, golfing, or throwing horseshoes eith the boys

Or work on a puzzle, play electronic Yahtzee, or something else he enjoys

Maybe you might see him, reading by the light

From a Louis L'Amour book, deep into the night

Tom, Ramona, Rose, Marion, Dorothy, and John are names in his life

Two are his parents, some are his siblings, and one is his wife

The children they raised together, are Jim, Terry, & Dan

They follow in his footsteps, the best that they can

Working on puzzles, word searches, and jigsaws too

Watching the weather channel, to see the forecast review

Going to the Casino, seeing if he'll win anything

Sometimes he likes to see, what each new day will bring

Those he has touched, in their lives every day

Know him on the inside, and glad he came their way

You can look low, or you can look high

But if you know Dave Winker, he's one Wink Of A Guy

My Sister-in-Law Terry Winker asked me to write this about

her Dad Dave, so I did. She helped with the information.

Alma

It was long before my birth, that she passed away

But her spirit is around me, and there is where it'll stay

She's my maternal grandmother, a special Mom to me

From the spirit world, she guides my destiny

With music in her soul, and love in her heart

Our spirits joined together, never to be apart

She'll always know, she is a special one

Her love shines through me, just like the sun

She was a hard worker, all day in the fields

Farming off the land, the food from which it yields

She's my Grandma Alma, the woman in the sky

I saw her there in my dream, she's the reason why

Why I love family, why I stay in touch

Because life is too short, to argue just too much

I spread my love around, and then I have to smile

Because I know that, it was also Alma's style

Her life here, was cut way too short

But she's always here, to give spiritual support

Oh Grandma Alma, how I love you so

And I wrote this poem, so you'd always know

For my Grandma Alma Duford-Joint, who I've always felt

close to. Thank you Alma for your love.

Alma's Photobook

In some photos from a long time ago

There are some people that I know

Relatives and friends are in each one

Showing they had their share of fun

My Grandma Alma put these photos in a book

Years after her passing, we can take a look

Some taken in Escanaba, some in Racine

The Joints on Memorial day, and Mr & Mrs Green

Some were on the Duford farm, cows were being shown

My Mom was a little girl then, but in the years she's grown

Theophile & Marie lived on the farm there

In Schaffer, where you can smell the dairy air

The Kidd my Mom played with, had passed away

But several Kidds from that family, still live to this day

Time passes by, years go by fast

In our morality, we never seem to last

Within every lifetime, and for everyone

Make the most of it, have all kinds of fun

Like a picture from Alma's photo book

Take time to really see, wherever you may look

I want to thank my Grandma Alma Duford-Joint

for these photos and all the people in them who

came to life as I looked them over. They are a

treasure to have and to enjoy in a time gone by.

Alma's Photos

Pictures were taken a long time ago

Of the people back then, some that I know

Alma took them and put them into a book

So that years later, we can all look

The people come alive, with each picture I see

Familiar faces I know in my family tree

My Mother was young in these pictures in the book

But as time passed she grew into a great family cook

Great Grandpa Theophile and his wife Marie

On a farm in Schaffer, their cows I did see

Great Aunt Edna and Grandma Alma too

The Duford Orchestra, playing music they knew

Alma's brother Louis & Virginia and their family

Ruby, Stafford, Chester, Viola, and twins Tommy and Woody

Another Brother Bill, who was also on hand

Growing up on a farm, tending the land

Grandpa's family was in the pictures as well

They were the Joints, it was easy to tell

Grandpa Adrien, people say I look like

I bet he enjoyed, riding a bike

Oh Alma, thank you so very much

The photos you took, added a great family touch

Thank you Grandma Alma Duford-Joint for all the

pictures you took of the family back then. For the

descriptions on each picture, and for all the love

that showed in each one of them.

Aunt Olive’s Camp

I remember quite vividly, Aunt Olive’s Camp
On the Dead River, Marquette county on the map
The sauna, and the water on the rocks
Making it hotter, knocked off my socks

A dip in the water, after being hot
Cooled us off nicely, every spot
I remember us kids, on the shore, on the logs
Looking among them, and I saw a blue frog

I remember the blueberry picking we would do
For blueberry pie, and we picked quite a few
And they had a dog, that bit me one night
I didn’t realize, I gave it quite a fright

How about those big tracks, seen on the way there
Painted on quite well, to give someone a scare
Then one night, some animal got into the fish pail
Ate all of the fish, didn’t even leave a tail

And Mom was bitten by a big old horsefly
John had her hooked, she sure had a cry
Oh those camp memories, with Aunt Olive and Uncle Bill
Who could forget them, I remember them still

I remember those times very well back in the 60’s.

I remember once Aunt Mabel, Uncle Alfred, and cousin Liz were out there.

The rides out in the boat. And so much more.

This is about my Aunt Olive Lemire married to Bill Anttila

Auntie Fish
© 2003 by Bud Lemire

I recall our old Auntie Fish
With the snuff falling onto the cake dish
The piece of cake brother Jim couldn’t eat
But my brother Jay thought it tasted sweet

Every Sunday she’d come to stay
A game of Cootie, a visit for the day
We played cards, she liked them too
And I recalled things she would do

She put that snuff right up her nose
Sometimes it would fall, right on her clothes
There was a day I dressed up in disguise
As a cousin from Marquette, I felt so wise
She didn’t know which cousin I could be
And later I let her know that it was me

She would speak into my tape recorder, waiting for a reply
Her voice was what came back, she was wondering why
She didn’t realize, it was herself she heard
As she listened closely to every word

Those days so long ago have passed
But the special memories will always last
Bringing me back to yesterday
When Auntie Fish came to stay

Exilia Belanger-Poisson (Auntie Fish as we called her, Poisson is French for Fish) came over on Sundays and stayed for dinner. We’d pass the time away playing cards with her, or Cootie, or some other things. She’d have some Copenhagen snuff with her and would always be putting it up her nose. Her Mother married my great grandfather Louis PINARD.

Bell

Here is a story I would like to tell
Of a man long ago, who answered to a bell
In a place he now lives, in his memories
Where the winter weather, made his hands freeze

He watched over his Mother, he lived with her there
And they took in the moment, of a time they did share
She’d ring for him, in the middle of the night
He’d bring her some juice, when she turned on the light

She spent much of her time, in front of the TV
The man who was with her, was her son, who was me
He cut her grapefruit, and got her insulin out every morning
And was told to go to bed earlier, but got away with just a warning

Age had been rough on her, she could hardly walk
He would sit upon her bed, and they would love to talk
Ancestors whispered in his ear, saying it was time to go
So he traveled to a land, a place he did not know

When he returned, she had been taken ill
When he closes his eyes, he can hear her still
Singing a song, that she knew so well
Music to his ears, like the ringing of that Bell

For my Mom, who went through so much, and gave so much

Butterfly Wings

Your sisterly love, is as beautiful as Butterfly Wings

With all that you give, and the warmth that it brings

It flies up in the clouds, it is so Heavenly

And I'm so happy, that you share it with me

Your heart is filled with a love, so gentle and kind

Soft as the Monarch, is what I always find

Your caring ways, and your thoughtfulness

Makes you even better, you're one of the best

To make someone happy, you do so much more

You give meaning, to what life's worth living for

Your sensitivity, is something we all should know

Learning how to use it, will help us each to grow

Your sisterly love, is as beautiful as Butterfly Wings

Like music to the ears, as though an Angel sings

High up in the clouds, surrounded by Butterflies

Someone's smiling down at you, through an Angel's eyes

My dear sister Nancy, you have such a heart

Being a brother of yours, is my favorite part

And through my life, whatever it brings

I have your love, as beautiful as Butterfly Wings

This is for my sister Nancy, who's birthday is January 28.

I wanted to have this ready early.

Celebrating This Special Day

It’s somebody’s birthday today

She is gone, yet she’s here in a way

Her spirit draws near

To relieve us of our fear

If she was here to celebrate

She’d be 84 years old, on this date

We’d have cake, and ice cream

Instead she comes to me in dreams

Within my dream she wears a smile

Her presence there only lasts awhile

But the love she shares, and the love she gives

Is felt deeply by me, from where she now lives

I shall always know

That within my soul

Our bond together

I shall always treasure

Let’s celebrate this day, for our dear Mother

For there will never be anyone quite like her

I thank you Mom, for all you’ve given

Happy Birthday! From the land of the living

This Birthday wish goes out to my Mom, who passed in 2001.

Although gone to the spirit world,

she remains within our hearts and souls forevermore.

Cheryl, A Special Sister

This is a special poem for my sister Cheryl

Who flew from the nest, just like a sparrow

She spread her wings a long time ago, to make it on her own

And through the many years, my sister sure has grown

Her life took many twists, and several different turns

The spirit inside her, lessons she had learned

Life doesn't come easy, it's hard work that helps you through

Sometimes it's a rough road, no matter what you do

She's the baby girl of my Mom's first family

And she's just three years older than me

She raised her own family, far from her birthplace

A daughter and a son, with her smiling face

Oh I recall the days when we were young

And all the good memories of the songs that were sung

The times when we went to Aunt Olive's Camp

The nights when you were rocking by the living room lamp

Time has taken us each down a different road

Lessons that we learn as we carry our load

May this day be a special one for you with lots of love

With the Easter sunshine shining on you from above

For you Cheryl, May you always know how special you are to me.

Coma

As you walk right by, I know you're here

If I could talk, I'd tell you “have no fear”

For once, I did have a voice

I'm glad that I had made my choice

You've heard my call

And I love you all

I try so hard, but I can not speak

I can barely move, and I feel so weak

I wish I could break free

Yet I can hardly see

I want to share, what's on my mind

The words won't come, at least that's what I find

I don't want another test

I know I'm not at my very best

Please, just let me go

This is something, that you know

I've seen the world, I lived a great life

I return to nothing, no more your strife

Thanks for holding my hand, I knew it was you

I appreciate all you did, and all that you do

I can slightly, wiggle my toes

The things I know, nobody else knows

I can say, that it's just as well

That my time had come, on the day I fell

As most of you may have guessed, I wrote this

with my brother Clyde in mind. “I Return To

Nothing” is because he didn't believe in the

afterlife. Which is something I strongly believe

in. I believe he will be quite surprised when he is

there and meets up with my Mom, my brother

Terry, and many others he thought were gone

forever. I can't imagine being in a Coma, but

I tried my best here. I put myself in his place,

and tried to imagine. I believe we are half here

and half in The Spirit World. Just waiting to be

set free so we can be fully somewhere. But as

we are in this state, we do take in the voices and

the people who are at our side. By the way, my

brother Clyde did make it to Heaven.

Cousin Donald

As long as I can remember, you've been around

Cousin Donald from Marquette, Escanaba bound

Visiting with us, and Auntie Fish too

Good natured, and a friend to quite a few

A Fireman by trade, until he retired

A trusting friend, a Cousin I admired

Hardworking, and a family man

Devoted, to being the best he can

Suffering the loss of a Mother, Sister, and a Wife

Relatives and friends, helped him on with his life

You've been a lot of help, and not given up on me

A special guiding force, as I learned our Family Tree

Never losing touch, always on the ball

Hearing all my questions, answering them all

I can't put into words, all that your presence has meant

Except to thank you, for the time that you have spent

And as I look back upon our Family Tree

There's a special place within my heart, for someone such as he

This is for my Cousin Don Lawry who has always been there for

me and has guided me with his wisdom and his friendship.

Thank you Don!

Note: Don's Mother was my Aunt Aurora Lemire-Lawry

Cowboy Lake
© 1991 by Bud Lemire

An invitation from cousin Ruby, is where I’ll begin
And my sister Nancy volunteered, on the driving
Mom hadn’t seen her cousins, since she was a kid
Somehow they lost touch, as relatives sometimes do

She was looking forward, to seeing them once again
And I was looking forward, to seeing them for the first time then
The area we were going to, was all new to me
On the way there, was some great scenery

It took us some time, to find the exact place
We spotted some people, but not one familiar place
We were greeted first, by cousin Ruby at Cowboy Lake
She wore a friendly smile, and then gave us a handshake

She was there with her boyfriend, they call him Et
Her son Craig and his wife, were the next ones that we met
Chester and his girlfriend Lil, were the next to greet us then
He resembled features on his face, of earlier Duford men

As a child, Mom remembered that he ate mints a lot
We gave him a bag of them, but he must have forgot
Next we met Viola, and her husband Bill
We shook her hand, I can remember it still

We sat at the pavilion, and talked about life
Then Tommy arrived, but not with his wife
He arrived with his daughters, and greeted all his kin
He said his wife couldn’t come, because she was working

We met Woody and Margy’s daughter Nancy, she wore a warm smile
It was another good reason, thet we drove there every mile
Nancy and her husband Tom, were running the show
They picked a good day, for the sun was aglow

Woody and Margy, who’s anniversary it was, arrived at the park
After a nice greeting, they made their way to the pavilion mark
I greeted Woody with a handshake to begin
He looked at me, as his mind was focusing

Then he remembered, just who the heck I was
He put his arms around me, and called me his cuz
There was snacking, that started fairly soon
Later came the caterers, I need more stomach room

Lil got Mom a piece of cake, Viola got me mine
As we didn’t feel much, like standing in line
Nancy went around, taking pictures of everyone
I took pictures also, which was a lot of fun

The Dufords could really dance well, out on the pavilion floor
And the music by the Country Rebels, played their music lore
Mom and I enjoyed watching all of them move
That Tommy and Chester, really got into the groove

Then came the time, for us to say goodbye
We had so much fun, the time it sure did fly
It was a wonderful feeling, to be in the Duford crowd
I know if Grandma Alma was alive , she would sure be proud
Of her nieces and nephews, our cousins who were there
And the warm welcome, that they had to share

I remember it well, and the great time we had visiting with each of them.

They have since passed on, but they live on in the memories of that special day.

Da Jaybird

Breaker! Breaker! Nightcrawler, you got a copy on me?

Or is there much static, on your side of the C.B.

If you have a copy, I'm sending you a big 10-4

To let you know I love you, if I never did before

These words come from the heart, for all the times we've shared

All through the years together, for you, I've always cared

You were unique in so many ways

I have some memories of those special days

I still recall those days so long ago

When you tried fixing my Talking G.I.Joe

It wasn't really that bad, because at least you tried

You knew how much it meant to me, I think that we both cried

Your laughter was always louder than the rest

When I was taping, your voice came out the best

The times that we played “Animal,” and the times that we played “Spoons”

And those special moments when we shared the special tunes

From Gilbert O' Sullivan, Cat Stevens, Jethro Tull, and the Beatles too

And we exchanged tapes, Mom and I sang “Yellow Submarine” to you

The Christmas tapes that you'd always send

Terra could hardly talk, because she was a child then

When told that you had Hodgkins disease, I can still recall that day

Tears sure fell from Mother's eyes, and brother, we sure did pray

We all knew that you were scared, and not really that strong

But you put up a front, so we'd think that we were wrong

Now you have your own family, and Marge, a wonderful wife

And so many people who love you, who are part of your life

Daniel and Eric, your children are growing up fast

Only in our memories, can we relive the past

But when I'm taken back, these memories I will treasure

Because the love I have from you, is much too big to measure

I took all the special memories, and gathered every word

To put into this poem for you, my brother, Da Jaybird

Thank you Jay, for being a wonderful brother!

Desirae

Desirae

Why did you go away

Was it your time to go?

I'd really like to know

You were too young to leave

So many left behind to grieve

It's another sad year

I wish you were here

You'll shine in the light

As always, you'll be quite a sight

Angels and family will welcome you

Some relatives you probably never knew

“God, my Great Niece is there”

“Please give her the best of care”

“She wasn't suppose to die”

“When she passed, it made people cry”

She's in good hands, this I know

Another Angel in Heaven, with a bright glow

She'll be with her Great Grandmother, and Great Uncles too

So I know they will guide her, in everything she'll do

Until we meet again, sweet Desirae

Your smile will be remembered, every day

Desirae, thank you so much for being a part of my life.

You grew into a beautiful woman. I know your spiritual

presence will still be a part of our lives here on Earth.

Even though your physical presence would have been

much better. Those closest to you will need time to

grieve. They will miss you very much. I know in time

you will let them know, that the love you shared with

them here on Earth, continues from Heaven. And they

will feel your touch and know, you are never far away.

And you'll be guiding them as they continue to journey

through their lives.

Different, Yet The Same

Although we are different, we're the same in many ways

Learning about each other, together through the days

My music is so very different, from the kind you like

Still we're filled with love, in each others light

On TV our shows are different, that we like to view

There are many differences, between me and you

The foods we like are different, and the pace we go

Still our spirits intertwine, and cause an inner glow

We are different, in the games we like to play

And you and I speak differently, with the words we say

Our thoughts are different, on everything we know

Yet our love together, is felt within the soul

There are many times, I wished we liked the same

But I'm so happy, to share with you my last name

We are individuals, loved for who we've become

Taking pride in knowing, exactly where we're from

Although we are different, we are much the same

Sharing love together, is our biggest aim

Although we are different, we're the same in many ways

Learning about each other, together through the days

Down Mangum Road
© 1991 by Bud Lemire

It was the late seventies when I first met you
Dad and I were on a Marquette trip, so it was all new
I’ve heard your name mentioned a lot in my life
And knew you were a daughter from my Dad’s first wife

Before long I felt a kinship starting to grow
Here was a sister I wanted to know
And with each trip to Marquette that we would take
I’d ask Dad if we were stopping to see Dottie and Jake

If it wasn’t too late, we’d stop at your place
I can still picture your warm and friendly face
With the dog barking and the cat chasing a mouse
We looked at your garden, then stepped in the house

My memories of those days don’t seem to fade
A special time in my life that your presence made
Your trips to Escanaba to visit us here
More special memories that I hold dear

And so Dottie, I say unto you
Good luck in the future, whatever you do
With relatives like you, you’re a great friend
What more can I say, so I’ll make this…the end

This is a poem for my older sister from my Dad’s first marriage, Dottie.

Her warm and caring ways over the years have helped us to become closer.

She has my Dad’s eyes, and I am always reminded of him when I look at her.

But I am also reminded of the bond of love that we have shared over the years.

Thank you Dottie!

Dottie Passed away Dec 4, 2023

Earthday Birthday
© 2004 by Bud Lemire

Today many years ago, there came a special birth
On June 2, 1894, though she’s left this realm of earth
Grandma Alma, I know you see these words
In the spirit world, surrounded by pretty birds

And I’m sure there’s music around
I can imagine it’s a beautiful sound
It must be quite a wonderful sight
Colors mixed in with your bright light

The love of music is in my veins
Helping me grow stronger, easing all my pains
The love of family is here too
I smile when I think of you

You guided me on my path
Helped me to the place I’m at
You help me through difficult times
Sending me love and spiritual signs

Oh Grandma, I know you’re there
And I know our love we share
While you’re physically not on earth
I honor and celebrate your birth

This is for my Grandmother Alma Duford-Joint,

who passed into the spirit world long before I was born.

I feel her love and presence in everything I do.

Family Game Time

While growing up, games were what we always did

Rummy, Nertz, Cribbage, it was fun as an adult or a kid

Gin Rummy or Five Hundred Rummy, it didn't matter to us

Our family loved playing games, we never caused a fuss

Dice games, board games, and card games too

Taking part in any of them, was always fun to do

Bunco was fun, and then along came Greed

Who really knew, where each day would lead

My brother Terry, would stop in the afternoon and stay

Play a few games of Cribbage with Mom, on almost every day

When our whole family got together, we'd play Animal or Spoons

I haven't played those games, for quite a few moons

As a kid it was games like Leapin' Letters, or Battling Tops

Kerplunk, drop the ball in and see if it drops

Charades, was a lot of fun to play

When friends came over, it was all day

Then there was a time at the old family home, we'd play at night

Nancy would come over, we'd play games under the kitchen light

Royal Rummy, The Magnificent Race, Boggle, or Pictionary

The games that we played, they would always vary

The fun times, never seemed to end

Memories of those times, we use to spend

I think back to those days, the memories are great

Those were the times so precious, I sure appreciate

I keep those memories alive, by cherishing each and every game

These days I play them with Nancy, and friends, which is my aim

I love the games, that we always play

They add so much enjoyment, to every day

I can go back in time, with each memory

Yet still move ahead, which is a great place to be

The memories of playing games with Mom and my

brothers and sisters, always take me back. Today I

am making more memories with my sister Nancy,

and the friends I play games with at night.

Family Reunion 2005

The butterflies were dancing, in a special way

As a family reunited, on this cloudy day

To take in the memories, of a long ago past

In the state of the present, and making them last

The young ones were fishing, casting their pole

At the U.P. Fairgrounds, at the fishing hole

As relatives arrived, and were greeted and met

The rest of the family, was getting the food set

Finally all family members, arrived at the scene

The sun shined so brightly, on the grass so green

We filled up our plates, with the food that was brought

Everything tasted great, is exactly what I thought

The clouds got much darker, we'd have to move fast

To take pictures of the present, for the future to look back on our past

The rain started falling, everyone stood in their place

While pictures were taken, drops fell on our face

Soon it was time, to pack up and go

I'm so proud of this family, that I got to know

For my whole Family

Family Tears

Please help me, the family is at war

But it goes much deeper, and more

Understanding why people can't be more forgiving

Because times goes by, and people stop living

Words can't be spoken, and meanings won't carry

If you find those people, at the cemetery

Then there's a lot of hurt and pain inside

Memories of the people who have died

The past won't return, as time moves ahead

With many words, that should have been said

The words weren't spoken, and the future came

They only have themselves to blame

I hate family feuds, like I hate a toothache

Feeling like my heart is going to break

They involve people, who I love a lot

I was sure they loved me, or so I thought

Everyone has opinions, that doesn't make them right

Eyes are open, but we don't have the same sight

It's time for a heart to heart, and some handshakes

A meeting of minds, or whatever it takes

To end this family feud, and put out the fires

And tear down the fences, and open the wires

I'll start out by saying, “ I love you all”

The doors can be open, it is your call

Don't fail yourself, whatever you do

The future can be changed, it's up to you

This was a little misunderstanding among the

family. And it lasted a couple years, but finally

it was over. I think of how stupid it was, and

how much time was wasted while those who

started it, finally realized how stupid it was.

Guiding Spirit

There is a spirit guiding me

Watching over on my life's journey

She's always close and never far

Within my soul she's a shining star

She is a spirit of someone passed

Who's time to leave had come at last

Much too early if you ask me

For she's my Grandma, so now you see

Her personality is merged with mine

And many times she leaves me a sign

In a reading, and in a dream

Her spirit flows through me, like a stream

Alma, how I love you so

And I want you to always know

So here it is another poem

Until my spirit's taken home

This one is for my Grandma Alma

Happy Birthday Jay & Marge

Happy Birthday Jay & Marge

Watch out Yoopers they're at large

They always visit, they always come

Piney Point Maryland is where they're from

Nightcrawler and Sleepyeyes, a big ten-four

Two special good buddies, too hard to ignore

Marge on March fifth, and the twelfth is for Jay

Another year gone, on this special day

A week apart, but celebrated together

Moments in time, for each to treasure

Jay from Escanaba, and Marge from Chippewa Falls

Each giving their most, each giving their all

Daniel and Eric, these are their boys

The computer is just, one of their toys

Happy Birthday Jay & Marge

Watch out Yoopers, they're at large

This is for my brother Jay and his wife Marge

Happy Birthday Terry

Happy Birthday Terry, my brother in spirit form

I send you birthday greetings, memories keep me warm

Memories of a brother, I admired from the start

In my journey of life, you played a special part

Working with the National Guards, I still remember this

Bringing home a ton of Smelt, something that I miss

Every day you would stop, to check up on things

You were a special part, of all that life brings

You always gave a helping hand, when it was needed here

Your kindness to others, were always absolutely clear

That camera that you gave me, so long ago

Started something for me, that I'm sure you know

Your love for dogs, and those you were around

Showed in every way, wherever you were found

From Shoeshine Boy, Gas Station Attendant, and Bartender too

There's a special kindness found in a brother like you

I just had to let you know, just how much I care

I know you understand, and you are quite aware

To my brother Terry, who's birthday is November Seven

I wonder if you celebrate your Birthday in Heaven

Dear Brother Terry, I know we were different in our likes

and dislikes. I know we didn't stop by and spend as much

time together as we could have. But what I want you to know

is, I Love you. I've greatly admired you for all you've done for

our family, and for just being the person you were. Your presence

was greatly appreciated in everything you did. I know your soul

is in the Afterlife now, and I want to thank you for your guidance

from there. Thanks for looking in on me and those I love. But

most of all, thank you for being a special brother that shall always

be cherished in my heart and soul. Until I join you, Thanks.

Happy Mothers Day

It's Mothers Day and I have to say

I wish you Mom, a happy Mothers day

You were a Mom to be proud of

You gave us all of your love

You made sure we had the best of care

And Mom you were always there

You sang to us and eased our fear

And made life better for us here

The games we played were always fun

It didn't matter who lost or won

I treasure what you brought while here

And know in spirit you're always near

I feel you in my heart and soul

And share the love you taught me to know

I know you watch and guide me through

I'm all I am because of you

Gone from the Earthly plane, but still around

In spirit is where your love is found

Close by the ones who you raised here

You stand nearby and whisper in our ear

Still sharing the vibration of love

I can feel it with just one thought of

I think of you and your loving way

For you make each year a Happy Mothers Day

Although you're in the Spirit World now,

your love is felt here with a thought.

I know you come around to watch over me.

You know everything that has happened since

you've been gone from this world. I also know

your love continues with each passing day.

Thank you Mom. Happy Mothers Day.

Happy Mother's Day

(Through The Years)

I want to thank you for being a wonderful Mother through the years

Through all the laughter, through all the tears

You've been there for us, ever since the beginning

Whether we are losing, or we were winning

Your life as a Mother was easy to do

Hard times we always leaning on you

You struggled and managed and made ends meet

And ended up standing quite strongly on your two feet

Another marriage and two more children to raise

This added to your family, and started another phase

But you managed to make it all work, you did really well

Life wasn't always Heaven, you went through some Hell

Once again you made it through, and your children grew

Some started their own families, raising their own children too

Many moved away, but kept in touch by phone

One stayed around to make sure you weren't alone

He's still with you, and I am that one

My name is Bud, and I am your son

I know it may seem like I'm far away

But I want you to know I love you every day

I try my best to make something work

And sometimes I end up just being a jerk

But I love you Mom, and I want you to know

I feel your sadness, when you're feeling low

Sometimes I try to make you happy, with the things I do

Other times I need to walk away, because I can't get through

But I want you to know, for you I love and care

And I'm so happy, with you, my life I did share

I'll love you forever, this is the truth and isn't a lie

Because a bond between a Mother and child, never really dies

Happy Mother's Day to the best of the best

From your son who never left the nest

I am an individual who loves you each day

For the caring and loving you sent my way

Thank you Mom, for truly being the best Mother a person

could ever have. You did a great job!

Harold

The Angels came to take him away

To the Spirit World, let us pray

A teacher at Soo Hill, that you might even know

A projectionist at the Delft Theatre, as we watch the show

Later, he and my sister became a Camp Host

Now my Brother-In-Law is a Heavenly Ghost

He battled Covid, and he did defeat

His heart only weakened, it ceased to beat

Maybe he thought “Time to leave this place”

“Too much for this old body to face”

I'm sure that many of us, feel exactly like that

Now it's a great place, where Harold is at

For years he helped me, in many a way

The computer, the taxes, and I've got to say

He gave me a ride to Elmer's, to get my fish

He was a great man, and here's what I wish

Remember this man, with a smile on your face

For he's spending his time, in a much better place

He'll not be forgotten, as long as I live

Because while he was here, he had so much to give

And he gave a lot. He always helped me. I got to know

him really well. Although Covid kept us further apart.

He'll be remembered in my mind and in my heart. In my

memories, he'll be guiding me along. Like the Teacher

he was in life. You know, he is the one who gave me

the idea to use pictures with my poems. And I did,

and that worked out really well. Thank you Harold! ^J^

Harold, My Brother-In-Law

So many people leave, without saying words they should

They have plenty of time, if only they would

I'm taking the time, to tell each and everyone

Just how much they mean, before their life is done

Now it's your turn, and I wanted to say

How much I value your presence, on your birthday

You've always been there, when I needed a hand

I've come to find, deep inside is a special man

You helped me, when you connected me to the Net

There's just so many people, that I have met

I've touched with so many, and you're to thank

The rewards of friendship, is like money in the bank

You have an insight, with all you know

Beyond the normal, you know where you should go

Although you present a quietness, deep in your mind

You're a thinking man, words come at the right time

I wish I could repay you, for all that you do

Even though I know it's a big part, of just being you

So I write you this poem, so that you'll know

My heartfelt gratitude, from deep in my soul

This is for my brother in law Harold,

for always being there for me when I have computer problems.

And doing my income taxes for me. Thanks Harold!

Heavenly Mother’s Day
© May 11, 2003 by Bud Lemire

Born in Upper Michigan, in nineteen twenty two
Lived in Racine Wisconsin, and in time she grew
Gave a child up for adoption in Detroit, out of wedlock
Then married the child’s father, who came from Norwegian stock

She raised a large family, basically by herself
It was a long hard struggle, with knickknacks on her shelf
The marriage ended in divorce, because it wasn’t meant to be
Then she married once again, and along came me

She sang so many songs, to her children every day
And gave them each her love, in her own special way
It was in a large white house, where most of us grew
My brothers and my sisters, the only home I knew

Playing games in the kitchen, with the family gathered near
With her love surrounding us, and the laughter and the cheer
She raised her family well, and was put to life’s test
And through her soul’s journey, it worked out for the best

Her children grew, and one by one left home
With her health deteriorating, she suddenly felt alone
I was there to help her through this stage, guide her to get through
With the love that she had given me, the only love I ever knew

My own journey of life, took me very far away
Upon my return, in a hospital is where she’d stay
She hugged me tightly, and was happy that I went
Family gathered around her, with messages Heaven sent

With the love that she had given us, and a tear in her eye
We returned the love she gave to us, with our final goodbye
Her spirit left her body, and took flight to the Heavenly skies
You can still feel her presence, if surrounded by butterflies

Or maybe some squirrels, will stop to say hello
Then you’ll feel her deep inside, and you will know
For those who believe in miracles, and those who believe in love
Then we share in something special, a Heavenly Mother’s Day from above

Happy Mother’s Day Mom! From all your Earthly bound children

I'll Always Be Here

Marie, your time is drawing near

You hear the Angels call, yet you're still here

You see and hear those who passed before

Heaven waits for you, and there's so much more

Such a gentle soul, kind and very sweet

A wonderful cousin, one that can't be beat

Always loved our chats, whenever I would call

You were always open minded, never had a wall

You also felt you could confide in me

Subjects no one else could hear, no one else could see

I hear your gentle voice whisper in my ear

"It's time to leave my body, but I'll always be here"

She'll come into your dreams, when you need her there

So keep an open mind, and always be aware

If you sense her presence around, on any given day

She's come to be with you, she's not really gone away

If you wake at night, and see her by your bed

It is really her, only her body is what's dead

Her spirit lives on, and is always around

With her family and friends, is where she will be found

Marie, I know you know I've written you this poem

As your family and the Angels take you back home

I thank God, for such a gentle soul

For this wonderful cousin, that I came to know

This is for my wonderful cousin

Marie Lawry Goodreau Stickney

In Spirit

I was a skeptic, while on Earth

In Spirit, I have found my worth

Imagine it, I can fly!

Here I thought, I'd just die

It's a whole new world, to explore

I'm amazed, because there's so much more

Don't you shed a tear

Dying is nothing to fear

I'm spending time with my sidekick

When my heart stopped, I came here quick

Aunt Lil was there, to help me here

Mom and other relatives, gave me a cheer

Just a reminder, keep looking up at the sky

See the beauty, in front of your eye

Get yourself a camera, capture what you see

I know in my life, it was the best for me

To those people, that I left behind

I'm fully myself now, in spirit I find

My thoughts are different, than they were before

In Spirit, our thoughts do so much more

Terry wants me to play a game of Pool, so I guess I will go

Yet I want to say something, I think you should know

If you have a Massive Stroke, go into a Coma, and are paralyzed too

Leave your body at once, is what you should do

It is so amazing here “In Spirit.” I still have some adjustments to make.

I am getting use to it already, even though I am fairly new. The things they

do over here would amaze you. They do, me. I am free to do so much more

and when it is your time, you shall experience it too.

I wrote this as though I was my brother Clyde, who always claimed not to

believe in the afterlife.

Inside Me

Where do I belong, on this great planet earth

For you see, I was given up for adoption, right near my birth

My Mother didn't think, she could care for me

Inside me is a longing, wondering who she could be

I look at every face, wondering if we'll ever meet

Maybe she is watching me, and lives on my street

Maybe I have brothers, and maybe sisters too

Inside me is a longing, for a blood tie that is true

Maybe she was sick, and maybe died of Cancer

I pray every night, that I will get an answer

Do I look like her, or does she look like me

I have so many questions, wondering who she could be

I've gone through life, with so much missing inside

And so many times, I sat down and cried

It's like I belong somewhere, but where, I don't know

As my life goes on, the stronger these feelings grow

I wonder if she, ever thinks of me

Or wonders at all, where I could be

Has she looked for me at all

I wonder if she's short, or if she's tall

I hope she's warm, and kind and gentle too

And I hope that she prays for her baby that grew

I'd like to think, I inherited her good qualities too

To share them with friends, for my feelings are true

Inside me is a longing, for a blood tie that is true

Tell me Mom, do you think of me too

In 1999 I found I had a sister who had been given

up for adoption. Jeannie is her name, and through

the e-mail, we were in contact. Through that, she

was in contact with our Mom. I got to meet her for

the very first time, not long after Mom reunited with

her. It was a wonderful experience. I decided to write

a poem from the view of the person who was adopted.

Jake

A great man has passed, his name is Jake

Leaving his loved ones, with a grieving ache

With Dottie by his side, he'd visit us in our home

And when we got there, Mangum Road is where we'd roam

An Artist, I'd see his beauty hanging on the wall

He'd answer the phone, whenever I'd call

Last time I saw him, he said it was hard to breathe

And I remember taking his hand, and giving it a squeeze

The Angels took him, to the Heavenly place

Yet, I can still see the smile on his face

He's breathing much better, as he's left his body behind

He's fully recovered in Spirit, and that's a great sign

When looking up, and you see shapes in each cloud

He might be painting a picture, if that is allowed

If you see or hear him, in a dream some night

He's come to embrace you, with his Heavenly Light

It was always good to see you, Jake my friend

I know when my time comes, I'll see you again

Until that time comes, enjoy your time there

I'll remember you always, and I'll send you a prayer

My Brother-in-Law Jake Brady passed away. It was

good to see him and my Sister Dottie when they

stopped by our home to visit. And we would stop

to see them down Mangum Road. Thank you so

much for being a part of my memories and life.

Karen, A Special Cousin

Who would have known what would happen, on this certain day

While climbing the Duford Family Tree and researching the name Cambray

A Lloyd Cambray arrived right at our door

And soon I'd meet a cousin that I had known before

Lloyd told my Mother that his sister Millicent lived in town

He gave us the address of where she could be found

So it was off I went

In search of Millicent

Off to her place I did roam

To Millicent's happy home

And who should walk in the door

But the cousin I had known before

I was working at a job

For a quadriplegic man named Bob

This cousin I just met

Wasn't known as a cousin yet

She had helped Bob on the computer before

He introduced me to her when I walked in the door

She seemed a friendly lass

As I was walking pass

Not too many years later you see

While working on the Duford Genealogy

You read it all above

It was the story of . . .

How I met a special cousin of mine

Who became a wonderful friend in time

This one is for you Karen Berg-Pelky!

Since Facebook, we've come to know

each other better. We found we have

much in common.

Not only am I glad you're my cousin,

I'm also happy to have you as my friend as well

Light Bulbs & Watermelon Seeds

©by Bud Lemire on June 1, 2003

I remember long ago, on a special Father’s Day
We were thinking of our Dad, in only a kid’s way
We didn’t know what to buy him, or what he’d really like
He spent so many times, working on our bike

Most of all, this was a day especially for Dad
So what could we get him, that wouldn’t be too bad
We had to get him, something he could use
Or should we get him something, that could possibly amuse

One never knows the outcome, of what’s in a child’s mind
And we as the children, didn’t know what we would find
We spent so much time looking, but nothing seemed to fit
We wondered about the gift, and where we would find it

Well, we put our heads together, but that sure didn’t last
So we went our separate ways, what more could we ask
We split up what little money, and searched throughout the store
Although I had not a clue, what we were searching for

When the time came, to give him the gifts we bought
We had to remember, it was not the gift but the thought
My brother John bought him light bulbs, something he always needs
And I knew he loved this fruit, so I bought him some watermelon seeds
It brought a laugh, from every family member
And it was a Father’s Day, that I’ll always remember

Happy Father’s day Dad, may your days in the spirit world be

as wonderful as this special moment we shared together

Lost Family Found

There was a time long ago, in the history of our families

Pregnant daughters, found themselves begging on their knees

To keep their babies, but their parents were too strict

Authority won over, and young Mothers were heartsick

The heartbreak of giving up, a special part of you

Yet there was nothing else, that they could do

Years went by, and that baby was still on their mind

Always wondering, if reunited, what is it they would find

Some took up the search, yet they didn't find a clue

Having nowhere else to turn, and nothing else to do

There are people, who research, and help you in this case

Help to locate lost family, then you can see their face

They can find their location, whether alive or dead

By collecting the data, and going where they're lead

Some results are successful, and there's some that can be a bit sad

It's so emotional to see reunions, with a child and their Mom and Dad

To me, these true stories, always touch my heart

It brings closure to each person, who had played their part

Years have passed, and they meet, they feel it's where they belong

A family reunion happens, and it's like happiness in a song

I've been watching a series about people searching

for long lost family members. It really pulls on the heart. I

find the connection and longing between family members so

very strong. It's a Need to find a long lost family member to

find closure of the heart and soul. Sometimes it isn't always

a happy ending. Other times, they do find out what they need

to know. Sometimes it's more of a pleasant surprise. Family is

so important. It's who we belong with.

Marie, A Special Cousin

This is a special poem I wrote up just for you

Because of the thoughtful things, you say and do

You are a wonderful cousin, one I'm proud to know

I'm glad to have known you, since I began to grow

When combining a smile with Marquette, your face comes to mind

You always find good in everyone, your ways are oh so kind

Troubles come and troubles go, my prayers are always with you

Because you are special, deserving all good things too

The letter I receive from you, means a lot to me

I'm so happy to have you in my family tree

When I was a baby crawling, you took a trip here

You picked me up smiling, and said I looked like a Lemire

In your own special way, your words were kind and simple

While holding me, your eyes were on my dimple

I remember your Mom and Don, coming here for a ride

Being young and shy, We would always run and hide

My Mom and yours, wrote letters to each other

Exchanging news in their life, of a housewife and a Mother

As time passes by, it seems so long ago

But I have pictures, to tell me it was so

You are here, and this is today

These are the words I wanted to say

With each day that begins and ends

You'll be my cousin, we'll always be friends

Marie, you've been a great cousin! Thanks!

Marie is the daughter of my Aunt Aurora Lemire-Lawry.

Marie Lawry-Goodreau-Stickney is the sister of Donald

Lawry, Lucille Lawry- Connors, and Frances Lawry-Lemire.

My Brother Rich

Another brother has left this plane

No longer sick, no longer in pain

I'm taken back to a time long ago

To this same brother, who I came to know

We called him Dick, and each time he'd come to stay

With John and I, he had a nickname to say

John was Pauncho Villa, and he called me Deadhead

He would pick us each up, and that's what he said

Athletic, sports was always his aim

He'd take us occasionally, to a baseball game

When he was in Escanaba, he'd get together with Mark

He'd be off with his friends, until long after dark

He'd hang out at the Meisner's, where he would stay

Any time he happened, to come up this way

When he attended a Class Reunion, a few years ago

He stopped by to see me, it was a special hello

I recall through the peep hole, I saw a fist

It was my brother Rich, who belonged to that wrist

A gathering at Stonington, was the next place he'd be

Surrounded by family, he was so good to see

A coach and a health teacher, he touched quite a few

He was a brother, that I was so glad I knew

Now he's been taken home, to be with his Mother

I'm proud to say, that he was my brother

He always called me Deadhead when I was young. He

really came a long way in life and accomplished so much.

I'm so happy he stopped to see me at the Harbor Tower.

Now as he makes the transition into spirit. I shall say a prayer

to carry him further into the light, in the presence of his

loved ones there. To know he will be watching over his

loved ones here on Earth, and guiding them with his spiritual

presence. Be aware, a smell, a sound, a memory, that is him.

My Brother Terry

Always a good Samaritan, he was a special soul

Someone you felt was a good person to know

Guided by his heart, he'd always tell it like it is

It was a special quality, that was especially his

Now he's in the Spirit World, carrying on his trait

Because for some reason...Heaven couldn't wait

He loved dogs, and there he's sure to see

Two great family pets, Barney and Toby

Mom is there, as well as other relatives too

Probably many of them that you never knew

I'm sure they have pool tables, so you can shoot some pool

Or play a game of cribbage, now that would be so cool

If you see me taking pictures, smile down on me from a cloud

Because you got me started, and I'll always make you proud

I know you have many things to adjust to, so I think I'll stop here

But remember you're invited to the family gatherings that happen every year

Terry, I loved you more than I could ever say. I admired you for all the things you've done. Before I was born, you helped our family survive hard times by giving your “shoe shining” money to help with the groceries and other bills. You gave me my first camera and from there, it brought me to where I am today. You said being here on Earth was like being in “friggin' Hell.” Well, dear brother, you've been promoted to Heaven. I know your life will be much better there. As for us, we'll think of you often and remember the kind soul who we were fortunate to have known as our brother Terry.

My Cousin Arthur

I remembered the times, you stopped to see Mom and me

You were a wonderful man, and it was easy to see

You had a way about you, putting others at ease

A gentle calming presence, like a warm soothing breeze

Your Mom was a JOINT, my Grandpa was one too

The same ancestors blood, is in me and in you

I've researched them, and know them quite well

We share in the stories, that I love to tell

I remember one visit, one time that you came

A surprise hallway greeting, you called out Grandpa's name

You said the likeness, resembled him so

Of your Uncle Adrien, that you use to know

You're not the first, to say that to me

Others look at me, and it's him that they see

It's the way it startled you, and what you said

Like maybe you thought, he came back from the dead

You're a caring husband, wonderful father, and special brother

A friend who cares, and a cousin unlike any other

This is a poem, I wrote especially for you

For all that you are, and all that you do

This one is for my Cousin Arthur Bourdlais, who lives in

Menominee, Michigan. He's been a great friend as well

as a cousin, Thank you Art!

He's passed away now, but we kept in touch before he passed and

over the years until he did.

My Dad
© 2003 by Bud Lemire

Marquette, on Lake Superior, in nineteen hundred and seven
Was the birthplace of my Dad, but now he lives in Heaven
Born to parents with origins going back to France
An old barn, now collapsed, is where he loved to dance

Freezing were the winters, bringing so much snow
Cardboard boxes down the hill, at thirty degrees below
Summers found him fishing down there by the lake
Then there was the moonshine that his relatives use to make

When he turned into a man, he started a family
Two daughters born, they were Dottie and Nancy
Things didn’t work right, a union turned to misery
So he was divorced to follow his destiny

Drinking played a big role, causing his family pain
Once he woke up in North Dakota, when he worked on the crane
I remember his temper, and how he’d let it go
It bothered me as a child, but I never let him know

The doctors told him to cut out his drinking trend
Or surely it would cause his entire life to end
He had many warnings, but still he never quit
Until he got much older, the wheelchair is where he’d sit

I came to know him better, without alcohol on his brain
A wonderful man inside, when he was feeling sane
Our friendship grew in his later days of life
He was married to my Mother, who was his second wife
We shared reading books, Doc Savage and The Shadow all the time
They fought so many villains, who paid for all their crimes

I shall always cherish the times when he was near
Many times I still wish, that he was still here
Although we were quite different, I loved him very much
“Dad, I’m so glad you were here, so I could feel your touch

In memory of my Dad, Clarence Leo Lemire Dec 21, 1907 - March 9, 1990

My Sister Jeannie
© 1999 by Bud Lemire

Many years ago, a baby girl was adopted away
It seemed like the right thing, to do on that day
Although the Mother wasn’t really sure
She hoped for the best, and always loved her

Where was her baby girl, she never knew
Looking at each face, ”could it be you?”
A family she raised, kept away the pain
She gave her love to them, which kept her sane

Many years passed, and we enter this year
1999 is the time, and I’ll make it clear
The Mother who gave her little girl away so long ago
Is also my Mother, so I ought to know

One night while researching my family tree
A friend holding a paper, handed it to me
It was someone looking for a Lucille JOINT
The year matched, if you get my point

1942 was the year, Detroit was the place
It was that long ago, since she saw her face
An E-Mail address listed, there was somewhere to write
So I wrote back to this person, on that very night

She replied quickly, with more on her mind
I sent her some answers, all I could find
Mom, my sister Nancy, and I waited for every letter
The feeling we had, would only get better

Her name was Jeannie, and she became my friend
And we grew even closer, with time that we did spend
She called me Christopher Robbins, she’s into “Pooh”
I felt like she was, someone I knew

It matched, it was proven one night
Within each of our hearts, there shone a light
This woman named Jeannie, was a sister of mine
And she had family traits, which is a great sign

She phoned us to talk, on the very same weekend
The bonding was instant, we really did blend
We became even closer as time came to be
And every day she sent a letter to me

Oh Jeannie, you’re not a “Silly Old Bear”
You’re one special sister, and I really do care
So please take my hand, as we touch on the past
I’ll share what I can, and we’ll make it last
Now that we’ve connected, we want you to stay
For the rest of our lives, if you say okay

For Jeannie Duquette-Hathaway, who did meet Mom and all of her newly found family. She was in our Mom’s life until Mom passed away on Jeannie’s birthday July 20^th 2001. Jeannie, she didn’t leave you again, she’s always around you and touches you with her spiritual love. Thank you Jeannie for bringing closure to Mom’s life, and being such a wonderful sister.

Note: Jeannie passed away, as did her daughter Michelle not long after

My Sister, Cheryl

Sibling rivalry comes to mind, but that was long ago

We were only children then, and needed time to grow

As time went on, we went our separate way

But I still remember those times, almost every day

Do you remember Friskie, the white dog from next door?

Or the visits to Aunt Olive's camp, upon the Dead River shore?

Then you got Barney, I remember him real well

He growled a lot, kept to himself, I cried the day he fell

Waiting for a phone call, this one is my friend

Your fingernails grew long, I hope that I will mend

You liked to sleep in, I heard that you still do

Trying to wake you, but could get no reaction from you

Moving to Two Rivers, your first move away

Then you moved in the direction of Clyde and of Jay

Terra was born, she was the first child that you had

Then you married Steve Fleming who became her Dad

Looking back, on those early days gone by

Makes you realize, how quickly time does fly

Although our lives are different, this much will be true

You'll always be my sister, no matter what you do

Cheryl never liked this poem I wrote about her,

yet it was the truth, and it is in my memories

My Sisters, My Brothers

I was blessed to have been born to one of the greatest Mothers

And to have been greatly loved by so many sisters and brothers

We have always been there for each other

We shared in the love that came from our Mother

I would like to take the time to thank each every one

For always being there, and all that they have done

My sisters and my brother, each special in their own way

I send this poem of appreciation, for each and every day

Jeannie, the lost one, who was given up long ago

Found us in 1999, and gave us a warm hello

Music runs in your blood, and a smile upon your face

In my heart always, there will be a special place

Clyde, the great one, who kept our family strong

Supported us throughout our lives, as we went along

With Bass and Tuba, he was instrumental in our family

His song of life forever guiding us, of this most will agree

Dick, the athletic one, you hit a home run here

With Cuckoo clocks from overseas, you sent us Christmas cheer

The nicknames that you gave us, always come to mind

You followed a spiritual path, of the healthy kind

Terry, the humane one, always thinking of those around you

Making sure those you love, had the right things to help them through

You helped our family get through the hard times of the past

I hope you know how much we love you, and want this love to last

Nancy, the thoughtful one, making sure everyone had enough

She always put on a front, as though she were tough

But we always knew better, we knew she was gentle and kind

She's the Easter Bunny of caring, not a better person you'll find

Jay, the humorous one, with your laughter, we had so much fun

Through the tragedy of Hodgkins disease, you'll always be the special one

We shared a common bond in life, this much is forever true

And we saw and felt each others spirit, as each of us grew

Jim, the prudent one, from the Big Boy to working at Mead

Following your own path in life, following your own creed

Many years of the distance, that separated me from you

Recently, I've come to know a special brother, that I hardly knew

Cheryl, the sensitive one, always feeling the pain of others that you knew

“Love Hurts” and “Swinging” are songs that will always remind me of you

You'll always be the baby girl, of this family that we're part of

But you'll also be a sister, who has shared in so much love

John, the helpful one, you're the one I'm proud of most

I always felt concerned about your future, you were the perfect host

But you found a place where you belong, and someone who loved you

And she brought out your good qualities, the ones that I always knew

I'm Bud, and I am between Cheryl and John in our family

And I wanted to let everyone know what they meant to me

When a loss occurs in the family, the siblings sometimes drift away

I hope that each and everyone knows, in my heart you'll always stay

Although we have our differences, with all that is said and done

May the love that we share together, always keep us together as one

As we travel down the road of life, to meet our journey's end

May you always know within me, you'll always have a friend

I love and cherish each sister and brother

Who were given the greatest love from our Mother

Bless them each for being unique and special in their own way.

Terry, Clyde, Dick, and Jeannie have all passed away now.

Nancy, Ode To A Sister

Oh Nancy, oh Nancy, this poem is for you

For all the kind words, and things that you do

I'm so happy to have you as a sister, it's true

And to travel time, with all we've been through

Although we were born, years from each other

You've been a great sister, I'm glad I'm your brother

We have more in common, as time passes by

And reading my books, you gave them a try

Stopping to see if everything is okay

Helping us out in your own special way

Bringing us places that we couldn't go

Making us feel happy, when we're feeling low

Playing games was a fun time we shared

The laughter and enjoyment, showed that you cared

Holidays would be right without you by our side

With the feeling of love that came from inside

You've been a true sister, as well as a friend

With each little gesture you happen to send

A phone call, a game, or whatever it be

Your kindness, your thoughtfulness, you're special to me

I could go on, there's much more to say

Just wanted to tell you, in my own special way

As I sit here at the kitchen table, feeling at home

I thought you deserved it, so here is your poem

Nancy, thank you for being the special sister you are

Paper Fortune Teller

I remember as a kid, my sister would approach me

In her hands she held a paper Fortune Teller, “Pick a Number and you will see”

Once you picked a number, she'd open it up to see

Next was picking a color, and that choice was up to me

After the basic choices, there would be more

I kept wondering, what else could be in store

Every Paper Fortune Teller, was different than the last

It was meant to tell my future, not to tell my past

When it came to colors, I would usually pick blue

Always wondering if what was written, would come true

You could use different categories in this game

It was fun to see, if it would turn out the same

Online, there are directions on how to make them too

If you follow directions, that's all you have to do

Make one to suit your interests, then when you are done

You'll have had a great time, and a little bit of fun

I wonder, what will your future be

What is it, that the Fortune Teller will foresee

Reminded me a bit of the 8-Ball that tells your future.

It was fun just to see what my sister wrote down.

I seem to recall making one too, and adding my own

future choices for others to try. It was enjoyable on

a rainy day. Or just any old day when not much

else was happening. Who else remembers these?

Remembering Mom With Love
© 2001 by Bud Lemire

With her final breath, and a tear from her eye
Her spiritual presence, took flight to the sky
To the place called Heaven, where we all go
She’s earned a special place there, this I truly know
She shared her gift of life and love, with us all
Until the time came, for her to answer the call
We shall remember, all she shared in the past
And the memories of these times, will always last

The memories when she sang to us, when we felt fear
We always felt so calm, when she was always near
The games we played, that were so much fun
It never really mattered who lost or who won
The pictures of the many faces, that she always drew
And the beautiful handwriting, that each of us knew
All the family stories, that she loved to tell
For me, I can still hear the ringing of her bell

I was her closest friend, when nobody else was here
I knew when she was happy, I knew her greatest fear
I’ve always called it home, because we were never apart
I knew she loved each of her children, with all of her heart
I hope everyone knows, I gave her the best care that I knew
Maybe I could’ve tried harder, but I did what I could do
I wish I could have done more, but she accepted me for being me
She always appreciated all I did do, and all that I could be

She was a warm and caring person, a Mother we all love
She earned a place in Heaven, with the Angels up above
As we journey in this life, one thing we all must know
She’ll always be in our memories and hearts, wherever we may go
I truly believe the love that we share with her, never really dies
Our spiritual bond with her lasts forever, that is the family ties

Her journey continues in Heaven, but her love is felt forever

Rose

Born on November eleventh, in the year nineteen thirty nine

She came into this world, with the help of the divine

Growing up like any girl, following where it lead

With brothers Clarence, Gerald, and Alfred

Her parents Lawrence and Rose, taught her at the very start

To be a special woman, she had to always do her part

She took part in activities, always following her heart

Gazing at each flower, as if it was a work of art

Old enough to marry, it was David Winker, they said “I Do”

They had three children, so very fast they each grew

Giving them, all the love they had to share

So they'd know, how to love and to care

She loved her children, and grandchildren as well

She enjoyed her sports, it was easy to tell

A hard worker, mowing the lawn and shoveling snow

David, the love of her life passed, it was his time to go

She spent time with her grandchildren, whom she loved very much

They could tell she did, from her smiles and loving touch

When it came her time, she too passed away

Now she lives, as a special memory every day

Within the hearts of those, whose lives she shared

Because her soul, was one who always cared

Rose knew about love and caring, and all the things

in life to be a special woman, a special wife, s special

Mom, and a special Grandmother. She always greeted

everyone with a smile and a hello. Now she's back

together with the love of her life and her family. She

watches over her family and friends from Heaven.

She still guides each of them with her spiritual presence.

Rosemary, God Bless You

I thank you Cousin Rosemary, for your thoughtful ways

That have turned each moment, into better days

For through our contact, you have kept in touch

That is the big reason, you are loved so much

Your past held so much pain for you

With your spirit strong, you always got through

You raised your own family

And was all that you could be

No one could have done, all that you had done

And I want to send you, a little of the sun

To shine down on you, and make you smile

Because you are a special cousin, I have known awhile

All the love and thoughts, you sent to me

I'm so happy to have you, in our family tree

You are a special cousin, I am glad to know

Who moved away from Marquette, so long ago

The doughnut holes, fudge, and cards were great to receive

Our love and friendship, forever, it will never leave

I thank you with all of my heart, and my soul too

My sweet dear cousin Rosemary, God Bless You

Rosemary has passed away, but my memories of her will

live on for years to come. She kept in touch and was

always sending me something in the mail. She'd call me

briefly just to keep in touch. I'm so honored I got to

know her in this lifetime.

Thank you Rosemary A. (Lemire) Martin

She was our first cousin, daughter of Camille & Stella.

Ruby
© 2003 by Bud Lemire

Ruby, you’re a gem shining bright as can be
Ever since I’ve known you, you’ve been special to me
You gave me a warm welcome, when I got in touch with you
I thought I would tell you in this poem, because that’s what I do

You’re the oldest in the family, of my Grandmother’s brother
And are First Cousin to me, and exactly to my Mother
Born into this world with the last name of Duford
A cold day in March, brought here by our dear lord

Words and memories shared, as we talked on the phone
Talking of the people, who long ago turned to bone
Keeping them alive, to be our guiding light
And keep them in our prayers, silently every night

Playing of the organ, with your fingers on the keys
Warmed by gentle spirits, guiding you so you won’t freeze
You’ve come a long way, to be just where you are
I’m glad you made life’s journey, and that is by far

I’m so happy that I met you, and had the time to say
That you are in my thoughts, each and every day
Friend and cousin, you are special, I treasure every minute
The world became a better place for me, because you were in it

Thank you dear cousin Ruby Duford-Fosterling,

for sharing so much of the memories of our relatives

Same Song, Same Time

When West Coast called East Coast

We were connected by what we loved most

Music, the same song at the same time

Our love of music traveled down the same line

How many times have we shared new music together

Common tastes of appreciation that we both treasure

Music has made this family strong

And it's helped us all along

I look back on that special day

And knew that in a spiritual way

The spirits were there for us each

A life lesson they wanted to teach

Sometimes the connections we have we can't understand

But we know that love and spirit give us a helping hand

And as we both shared a special moment across the miles

I could feel the spirits, Mom's and Grandma's smiles

As you celebrate your birthday on this day

Another year with a special brother, so I'll say

"Happy Birthday, dear Brother of mine"

As the music plays on, Same Song, Same Time

Happy Birthday Brother Jay,

may the music in your soul

always be the strength

to carry you to wherever you go

Sharing In The Loss

My dear sister Nancy, that I truly love

Even though she's gone, she's watching from above

I know your sadness, because I feel it too

I see the memories daily, with everything I do

Don't feel guilty, you did everything you could, I know

Now you must heal your pain, and let your spirit grow

Think of me, sitting here, alone here in the house

Nobody stops here to see me, it's as quiet as a mouse

I know it is too sad, to stop here for too long

The memories of her, are still so very strong

I know the way you feel, because I feel it too

I still feel so exhausted, and there's nothing I can do

I try my best to carry on, being all alone right here

No one I can turn to, when I need someone to be near

It's a waste of good energy, to let your guilt be there

Always remember, you have relatives, who, for you, really care

It's be nice to have everyone come here, to play a game or two

Because loneliness has come for me, if only you knew

I will carry on, for me, God must have a plan

I will keep on smiling, and do the best I can

Mom had just passed away. Nancy wouldn't stop here

because the memories were still too fresh in her mind.

She was feeling so sad, but then again we all were. I

was still living at home, waiting for the next chapter

of my life to begin. I wrote this poem, in hopes that

Nancy would understand that I know how she felt

and I am here for her. Even though not many were

here for me. People would call, but in person is so

much better. John & Terry would stop and ask if I

needed anything. What they brought at this time,

was what I needed most. A friendly face to see.

Si, What A Guy

When you were born you weighed seven pounds
Your mind was open to many different sounds
As you grew older, music played a big part
You joined the Navy, which was a good start
I remember you living in Hillside Maryland for awhile
As well as your trips home, and your big smile
You were here and stopped Dad, when he got too wild
I would have helped too, but I was only a child

I remember the cameras you had back then
Pictures you took down the streets of Ludington
You lived in Germany for seven years
Enjoying the mugs of the Munich beers
Then you were found in the California state
The U. S. Navy told you to lose some weight
A picnic at Ludington park in Nineteen Seventy Nine
Your snacks were minus the cheese and the wine

The phone calls you made to our Mother
Showed that you cared as our big brother
With advice, you tried to show us the light
It hurt bad, because we knew you were right
Although I don’t agree with all that you say
I let you speak your mind, in your own way
We have our own roads to follow, and our own songs to sing
Sometimes they lead us to goldmines, other times we lose something

All in all I’m glad you are who you are
As you play the Tuba and the Bass Guitar
We share the love of music, from everywhere
Which was inherited, if you have a care
This poem is special because I wrote it for you
Thank you dear brother, for all that you do
Oh that Si, what a guy

Clyde, this one is for you dear brother, for always

being there for us and guiding us through our journey to adulthood,

and always giving your advice taken from your own life experiences. Thank you!

Songs Mom Sang

As I kept busy around my apartment, a song went through my head

A song that was sung long ago, today I sang that song instead

It brought me back there, as I sang that song

I felt she was with me, singing right along

Mom sang a lot of songs, these days they mean so much

Deep are these memories, in my heart they touch

Even though the song, was popular before I came to be

The songs she sang then, mean the world to me

Her Mom taught piano lessons, and played in a band

The love for music in our family, is easy to understand

One cousin I had talked with, said she was taught to play

By my Grandmother, although this Cousin passed away

Mom loved to sing, and she'd sing every day

She loved my music, when the turntable would play

She had her favorite songs, of the records that I had

To see her smile as they played, always made me glad

I'd like to think the music, is something to hold dear

When things bring you down, it brings endless cheer

I play all the songs, that Mom used to sing

Knowing those special memories, that each one will bring

Every day is Mothers Day when you are thinking of that

special woman who gave her best to give you the best.

When I think of people who tell me their childhoods

weren't that good. I think back to my childhood, and smile.

I am so glad music was brought into my life, and I enjoyed

it. To this day, music is a big part of my life. I thank Mom

for carrying on the family tradition, so that I could as well.

Terry's Double

It happened one day, while I was at the U. P. State Fair

I couldn't believe my eyes, I couldn't help but stare

It couldn't be my brother Terry, he had passed away

Yet there was his double, on this certain day

Holding a camera, taking a picture of a camel there

He wore a cap, one that Terry would never wear

And his shirt, was one I could picture Terry wearing

I took a picture, because it's not polite to be staring

I wanted to say something, but I couldn't talk

It seemed that my whole body, was in a state of shock

I know my brother Terry passed, who could this man be

So many questions, started to come to me

They say everyone has a double, maybe it is true

If this happened, what is it you would do

Would you have found, there was something to say

If you saw someone, who you knew had passed away

There standing before me, was an image of someone I knew

And yet it wasn't him, so what else could I do

Terry loved to spend his time at the Fair

After he passed, I never thought I'd see him there

There at the Petting Zoo, by the Camel at the U. P. State Fair 2018,

I saw a man who looked like my brother Terry. He had a flat cap on,

like my Dad use to wear, but his shirt was like one Terry use to wear.

He was taking a picture of the Camel with his camera. I was amazed

at the resemblance to my brother Terry. I should have said something.

All I could do is stare at him as he watched the Camel. I took a picture

to capture the moment. I wished I would have found out who this man

was who looked like my brother Terry. He might have been a relative.

It is amazing the things you'll see at the Fair.

Thank You Dear Lord (For Jeannie)

Thank you, for bringing this special person this way

Our sister, to be with us on this special day

Thank you, for letting us see what we see

The wonderful person that she came to be

Thank you for opening the door, and the window too

Thank you for letting us see, all that is true

Thank you for giving her, a heart that is so kind

A good soul, a good spirit, and a good mind

Thank you for the hugs, that she gave us so free

Thank you for the feelings of love, deep inside of me

Thank you for this reunion, that I was part of

Thank you my ancestors, Angels from above

Thank you for sending, her to us on this day

To be with us, in each and every way

Let any doubts, that were there before

Be gone from our minds, and pushed out the door

Let your love guide us, together again

A special giving person, who's also my friend

Thank you, oh thank you, sister of my blood

You've bloomed into a flower, that started with a bud

Thank you dear lord, for guiding her right

And bringing her love, into the light

This poem was written after the 1999 Thanksgiving meal with

Jeannie among us. It started out with confusion, for Jeannie

was crying down at the park near the Water Plant, because Mom

hadn't invited her here for the meal. But Mom thought she already

knew she was coming here. After she returned to her room where

she was staying, we invited her, and it all went well from there.

Thanksgiving Memories

I enjoyed sitting down, at Thanksgiving with family

Now I can look back, at the cherished memory

Mom, Dad, John, Terry, and me

Turkey was the best it could be

Potatoes with gravy, and dressing too

Cranberry sauce, either one will do

Lime jello with carrots and pineapple inside

Green and black olives, that were too hard to hide

There were leftovers, after a meal like this one

Turkey sandwiches to eat, was the most fun

Those were the days, I still remember

Way back then, on a cold day in November

I'm never as thankful, as remembering family on this day

At the old family home, and the games we would play

My sister Nancy came over, we'd play games for awhile

Thinking of those days, always brings me a smile

Times keep on changing, and people pass away

It's best to enjoy them, every moment of each day

When it comes to us, each day that we're living

Enjoy each year with family, and have a Happy Thanksgiving

Life changes, and time moves ahead. But the memories are

great to look back on. The smiles, the company you kept,

the food at Thanksgiving, the games we played, and that

special time in life when you had no worries at all. You

just enjoyed all the foods that your family made every

year.

That Holiday Hare

The Easter Bunny leaves a basket on my door
The Bunny use to leave it in the hall, but that was long before
Quiet now, and I will take a peek
No one is in sight, so now I can speak

You see long ago, Easter was just another day
Until my sister changed that, she knew she’d have her way
She’d come over to the house, and leave a basket there
Filled with lots of candy, from that Holiday Hare

She’d always sneak in the front, and put it in its place
Then race around the back, entering with a smile on her face
We’d tell her the Easter Bunny came
Mom and I knew that Easter Bunny had a name

I remember once, she tripped while trying to get away
Luckily we didn’t notice, we were watching TV that special day
You see my sister’s thoughtful, and won’t leave anyone out
If you knew her like I do, there wouldn’t be any doubt

She invites me for the holidays, to share a special meal
Prepared by her and family, which is a really great deal
I wanted to once again take this time, to let someone know I care
You know by now who I mean, my sister Nancy, That Holiday Hare

Thank you Nancy, for making each Easter and Holiday

so special to me. I hope you always know how special you are to me.

The 45's

I've loved music, from the first moment I could hear

I'd listen to music, every day of the year

Mom would sing to us, a song that she knew

It played throughout my life, as I matured and I grew

My brother Terry, had an old record player I'd play

45s spun around, I listened to them every day

I bought my first new 45, it was ABBA's “SOS”

Yet, there was a place, where I could pay for them less

Upstairs of B.F. Goodrich, Major Utilities was found

Many days, it's where I was bound

Just a quarter for one 45, or five for a dollar

On my way home, I was so happy I could holler

Out of the Jukebox, and what a good deal

I lived in each song, even if it wasn't real

I heard about someone, selling a big box of 45s at a garage sale

On the south side, in the mid to late 70's, and this is the tale

Off I went, my Dad gave me a ride

A woman greeted me, on the inside

I was short of money, but Dad helped me out

He knew I loved music, he knew what fun was all about

In the year 2021, as it came to be

A Cousin told of, how her 45s were sold to me

You see, those 45s, influenced my musical taste

And to think, they almost all went to waste

These days, I share copies of the music I like to hear

With that very same Cousin, who is a friend and is dear

I didn't know her back in the 70's. It wasn't until the 90's

that we would find out we were cousins. Abba's “SOS”

that I bought was at Advanced Electric on Ludington street.

Major Utilities was on the East side of the building upstairs,

of B. F. Goodrich. A man with the last name of Flath and his

two sons ran the place.

The Fuzzies

I think I have the fuzzies

In my mouth they make me sneeze

I don’t think they’re from my hair

Their colour is different than there

If they get in my mouth

I have to spit them out

They’re icky and yucky

And don’t taste good to me

So, don’t get the fuzzies

Or it’ll make you sneeze

If they get in your mouth

You’ll want to spit them out

My Grand-Niece Monet had the fuzzies,

and I thought I’d make a poem about it.

She was pulling some fuzz from her mouth,

and came to me and asked if I saw her pull it from her mouth.

The Lilac Shrub

In a yard nearby, there was a Lilac Shrub

The flowers on it, were ones my Mom loved

Sweet aroma, a fragrance so divine

With the color, of light purple wine

I remember the day, our neighbors cut it down

Mom was upset, and I also wore a frown

Why did they have to take away that beautiful smell

One that we've known, only too well

It was the end of that shrub, with the smell so sweet

But many more of them, were just down the street

For thirteen blocks, I counted a shrub on each one

They looked so beautiful, when shined on by the sun

So many flowers, that smell good to the nose

You find them everywhere, that all flowers grow

I'll never forget, that one Lilac Shrub

The one that my Mom and I sure did love

The Music & The Words

You're taken in by the music entering your head

I'm taken in by the words sung where they are lead

You're keeping time, to the music and the beat

I listen to the flow of words, that make me feel complete

You listen to the instruments, as they play

I like how the words speak to me, in every way

You can feel the music, and go with the flow

The voice singing to music, touches my inner soul

The music and the words

The squirrels and the birds

The vocals and the tune

Flowing across the room

I write the words, you play the bass

You hear the tunes, I put words in place

You're taken in by the music entering your head

I'm taken in by the words sung where they are lead

This is for my brother Clyde, a musician.

He plays the bass, I wrote poems. I love music, so does he.

He hears the music, I feel the words.

Toby

This is a poem about Toby, a great friend of mine

He's gentle, he's thoughtful, he's playful, he's kind

He came through my sister's action one day in December

It was the first of the month, a day I'll always remember

Toby arrived at a good time, with the death of my Dad

With a kiss from this canine, he'd make us feel glad

He's playful, witty, and sometimes acts like a clown

If he can't get your attention, he puts his head down

Watch your words closely, whenever you talk

He knows the word CHEWEE, and he knows the word WALK

If you say these words, he'll come running to you

He'll watch you until you give him his due

He's a part of the family, whom we love dear

When he chews his bone, he likes to be near

When unsure, he holds his paw up in a questionly way

With him by your side, everything will be okay

He loves it when you tug on a toy, or throw the ball

And he's there with a tail wag, as you come from the hall

To go outside, he lets out a whine

Or goes by the door, or some other sign

He's a mixture of breeds, a real lovable pup

And was caught drinking tomato juice from John's coffee cup

With his sad little face, we give in to his stare

Food from our plates, which we love to share

Without his presence, our lives would be dim

Our family is much happier, because we have him

This is a poem about our dog Toby, who passed away in August 1998.

He was a great little friend of mine, and I am so glad he came along.

Toby:Goodbye For Now

Toby my best friend, we lay you to sleep

I shall remember you, with memories I keep

Remembering the good times, my face wears a smile

You were my best friend, and for quite awhile

With a wag of your tail, and the games that we played

We went well together, what a good team we made

It won't be the same, without you by my side

But my feelings for you, I won't try to hide

My good friend of many years, I hope you're okay

Up there in Heaven, because you deserve it that way

Your suffering is over, my special little friend

You've gone to a "Better Place," with blessings I send

As your soul leaves your body, you'll take a special flight

Someone will guide you, as you move toward the Light

They'll take good care of you, this I know is true

There will be no more suffering, no matter what you do

No thunderstorms, no firecrackers, in this place where you'll be

So you have nothing to fear, I'm sure you will agree

Although you seem quite far away, I know you are near

Intertwined between both worlds, to those you hold dear

And with these final words, I'm sending all of my love

To the place where the spirits dwell, The heavenly place up above

About a month after Toby passed, I had a dream.

In it was Toby, he barked at me.

He was surrounded by a white light.

He came up to me and licked my face and I woke up.

It was his way of saying he made it to Heaven and is okay now.

When The Easter Bunny Came

When the Easter Bunny came to our house

He was so very quiet, just like a mouse

He'd hide Easter Baskets all over the place

When we were kids, that was always the case

In the Pantry bin, one of us kids found one there

The others were still looking, they thought it unfair

Another was found in the oven, the stove wasn't heated

The other kid looked for his, he didn't feel defeated

In the Living room, right behind the rocking chair

That's where he found it, just sitting there

It was always fun, to find what was brought

The Easter Bunny made it fun, is what I thought

Years later, when Easter came around

From the front door, there came a knocking sound

There in the hallway, an Easter basket was found

Just the Easter basket, nobody else was around

My Sister, moments later, was coming in the back door

She smiled when seeing the Easter basket, what was that for

We suspected it was her, she always had a good heart

She wanted to make Easter, a very special part

She brought back Easter, to our family home

A good memory, that was worth writing about in this poem

Thank you Nancy, my sister, for all the kindness you have given. We

truly know what a wonderful heart you have. For you have shown it

time and time again.

Yes Dad, I remember
Your birthday in December
The twenty first just like me
Although mine’s in January

I remember the good times, and also the bad
But it’s the good ones, that make me proud of you Dad
The trips to Marquette, to visit relatives there
And near the end, when you needed good care

I remember you sitting, in the basement on a hot day
Or working around the house, for that was your way
You’d help Mom with the washing, hanging clothes outside
And when she was nervous, you’d take her for a ride

I’m not mentioning the bad, not now and not here
Because your love for us, was always quite clear
I know you were quiet, and wished you had said and done more
But sometimes learning lessons, are what you are here for

I’m pleased that you came, and shared time with me
And I wish your spiritual journey, is the best it can be
Thank you so much, dear soul of my Dad
For the wonderful times, in my life that I had

Dad, Happy Birthday. You would have been 99 this year (2006).

But now you are in the Spirit World and your journey brings you to many other places.

I wish you the best as you learn more lessons on your journey of the soul.

You Were There For Me

How can I ever begin to thank you

For everything you’ve done, and would do

For taking me, into your home

So I give thanks in this poem

You’ve spent years alone, in your own place

Yet you opened your home, let me in your space

I know it wasn’t an easy thing to do

But it was the right thing for you

Time can move so very fast

The present becomes the past

I’ll remember what you’ve done

And it’ll warm me like the sun

When I’m back on my feet

These memories I’ll always keep

For you were there for me

When no one else could be

This is for my brother Clyde.

He took me in, after living alone for so long,

and helped me out when I needed it.

Thanks Clyde!!!

This was when I returned from Washington State.

Your Mother, Here

I know it’s sad, you’re missing our Mother

But you’ll see she lives on, in each sister and brother

Qualities passed down, right through our genes

Some can be heard, and some can be seen

She knows all your thoughts, all that you’re thinking

For she’s often real close, have you ever had an inkling

She knows of your sadness, and hugs you real close

Yet in your mind, she’s only a ghost

Go with your feelings, when all thoughts are clear

For she comes around, so she’ll be near

She wants you to feel, her loving touch

And for you to know, she loves you very much

When thoughts of her are strong, and you feel she is here

That’s when she is, don’t cling to the fear

You’re in the middle, of illusion and truth

Only when you accept, will the negative break loose

Faith is a strong word, but many believe

Spirits speak to us, in the thoughts we receive

The afterlife, means the life after Earth

But our loving to them, never stops since our birth

So don’t feel she’s left you

For that is not true

She follows your life, everything that you do

Her embrace of strong love, is what helps you through

When there are things, you just can’t understand

Think of it, as part of God’s plan

When illusions seem real, and butterflies are near

It’s when true love, carries Your Mother, Here

This one is for my sister Nancy, who was missing our Mom

Bud's Poetry By Category

Monday, December 25, 2023

Family

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