THE ELEPHANT

 

The first elephant I ever saw was made of wood. It stood firmly on a splendid wooden plinth. It was carved as though walking with one foot and trunk raised.

As a child, I could hug and pat its beautifully carved, shiny back, though I was firmly instructed not to try to lift it.

I tried once, but it was far too heavy for me as, in its raised trunk, it carries a light with lumpy shade, which bathes the room in a comfortable glow.

From the first sight, I needed to know! What is it?

More questions flowed: Where does it live? What does it eat? Is it scary? Does it bite?

So, my first feelings for Africa began, and I began to feel for its amazing people, fauna, flora, and crafts. It has taken me to her shores for some amazing, but short, visits.

The elephant that started my quest has been handed down by the family. It now rests comforting me as I read bathed in its light.

I was remembering the gatherings, both here and in Africa, with delight.

I never fail to pat the elephant, increasing the patina on its back, when I switch off the light for the night, taking the feelings of Africa with me.

2024 © Penny Wobbly of WobblingPen

Photo: Pixabay License

CLIPPERTY CRITTER

 

Clipperty Critter was certainly a horse.

With a name like that, it could not be a fish.

He lived a life with humans but had a secret strange wish.

As a horse he did as he was instructed, pulling, carting, to earn his essential daily food.

Yet on his travels, he was observant, watching birds flitting about flying high.

He was very envious as he longed to fly.

To walk with hoofs down on the ground was fine, he wanted to raise his hoofs up and fly.

The hope was that he would be able to travel two ways it was the height of his ambition.

While on his own in the stable, he made wings out of straw.

When complete he picked his stable lock open.

Nudged it a bit more and pranced out the door, increasing his speed to gallop up the nearest, highest hill.

It was not a strange idea, as he had heard humans talk, of Pegasus a horse with wings.

If he can do it so can I, was Clipperty's very confident though?

At the top of the hill, he adjusted his wings and glanced a final look around.

Took a deep breath flapped his wings and hung suspended, before he dropped, bounced, dropped and bounced again.

The result, there was no need to describe it was not nice, it was horrid.

For just a few moments, Clipperty achieved his wish and flew.

Unexpectedly, he found a new permanent home in a place where humans pray.

A horse is just a horse, of course, a bird is just a bird.

Trying to be what we are not, is really quite absurd.

2024 © The Two Friendly Poets

Photo: Pixabay License

THE ROAR

 

The roar from the TV made me sit up and take a look.

A football match was in full flow, with players running about on a pitch.

An unexpected goal was scored, against the pundits’ call.

Who is playing? I struggled to see: it was Arsenal and Wolves.

Arsenal players were in despair, allowing a goal in just as the end was near.

Wolves were madly celebrating. 

Arsenal picked up their spirits and the ball, heading for the spot, arranging themselves in playing order. No time to wait at all.

Hardly had the whistle been blown then the ball was in the back of the net.

Arsenal fans roared their delight, but their players returned the ball to the spot at speed.

Their determination was to score again to cement their claim to the game.

Once more, a few touches of the ball were applied and the same player scored.

Not satisfied, they placed the ball on the spot again. 

No time to spare.

Dodging Wolves defenders, into the goal it flew.

As Wolves crumbled in disbelief, Arsenal fans and players roared.

And the whistle used by the referee blew and blew. 

Game over.

2024 © Penny Wobbly of WobblingPen

Photo by Gurdain Bharj on Unsplash

INTERNET DISCONNECT

 

Staring out the windowpane, looking at the rain, wondering when normal service would be resumed again.

No friendly ringing, no poems or stories to enjoy, just silence hanging heavily no joy.

Hands reach out to tap the keys, to creatively dance the words upon the screen.

Yet no matter what I tap, there is nothing to be seen.

At last, the knowledge I did have to accept, no internet connection could I expect.

A flash of communication appeared, you have no internet connection.

I thought that was plain to see! I just want to know how you can return it to me.

A voice from a distant part informed me it was fine on their end. All is well for them but what about me, silence still reigns.

I am an old customer, yet service to me does not extend.

Firmer action is needed for the voices on the other end.

Or this long-standing relationship will sadly have to terminate.

As I go searching for a much more supportive, helpful unseen connector.

To join in reconnecting me to my so wonderful internet friends.

2024 © Penny Wobbly of WobblingPen

Photo: Pixabay License

POST KNOCK

 

Iris on moving into a new area was invited by a new friend to her house.

The lady said ‘I am having a coffee morning, and will ask some of my neighbours to come round to meet you. It might help you, to feel more at home here. 

Iris was delighted and accepted the invitation.

On the appointed day, she swung into her friend's shared drive, took a fit of sneezing, and ploughed through a row of Mail Boxes.

‘As of course, you shut your eyes when you sneeze, don’t you!’

What a way to make new friends. However, all was redeemed by the new friend, who happened to have, a handyman, working on her property at the time and he quickly repaired the damage.

2024 © Penny Wobbly of WobblingPen

Photo by Hiroshi Kimura on Unsplash

MIRROR MIRROR ON THE WALL

 

Mirror, mirror on the wall!

I am not the most beautiful of all.

But beneath this skin I wait to reveal

The researching person residing within.

It is not beauty I seek, just knowledge so fine.

To reveal for others to keep.

The world in its shape for a very long time.

2024 © Penny Wobbly of WobblingPen

Photo: Pixabay License

THE PEOPLE’S FIGHTER

 

With gloves wrapped around his hands, he bravely made his way, fighting on through the ranks of others, learning his trade and its requirements with one aim in mind.

War did not distract him; he volunteered to fight for his land. The soldiers sent him back to the ring, saying his job was there. His achievements gave them courage and pride to keep the homeland safe from evil hands.

Suitably attired, he strode forward with years of boxing experience and the cheers of an army, also fighting, bloodied and dying, strengthening his shoulders as he walked into the ring to face the final challenger.

Ahead he saw him waiting: taller, heavier, longer arms and solid. Yet he knew he had within him the strength of a nation willing him on. Both fighters stood waiting for the bell to declare the challenge had begun.

In front of the eyes of millions, some fans of each man, others with eyes of curiosity, or anxiety with betting slips in their hands, the battle raged, blood flew, and the audience swayed one way and the other, as scores wobbled between the fighters.

Round 10: the final bell rang and Oleksandr Usyk was declared the Undisputed Heavyweight Champion of the World.

What an inspiring man!

2024 © Penny Wobbly of WobblingPen

Photo by Leonhard Niederwimmer on Unsplash

DARTS FLY, BULL’S EYE

 

The masses waited for the match when darts would fly.

Two very young men, already at the top of the world game, strengthen and flexed their arms.

Rotating their necks, closing and resting their eyes.

Trying to calm their nerves, as an international audience waited.

Eating, drinking, laughing, and anticipating, new friendships in the making.

Time ticked on to the start; tension increased; stakes were high.

The referee arrived and checked the board, the carpet and the start line.

Weighed then broke out two new boxes of darts, colour choices taken.

The audience waited in restless expectation until instructed to silence as rules were explained.

TV and media cameras record the opening preparation, fingers ready to press the button sending it to enthusiasts around the world.

The players had a few practice throws as good luck calls reverberated around the room.

Each player with their own enthusiastic supporters is here to watch them play the game of their lives.

Only one can claim the title of The World Darts Champion.

2024 © Penny Wobbly of WobblingPen

Photo by Anastase Maragos on Unsplash

SLIPPING INTO TEENS

 

Slipping into teens; still don’t know what it means.

Just know that some rules have changed. I am not kept on quite such a tight rein. New rules are in place so I do not lose face.

Ways to stand my ground, not be bowled over by a bad crowd.

Encouraged to take a weekend or holiday job to help pay for things ahead.

I am starting to see how tight things can be, as they now share anxieties they once kept from me.

Taking responsibility for aiming as high as possible at school without constant prodding to achieve the best I can.

To prevent the anxiety of what lies ahead from overwhelming me.

No time now to be the class fool; important to be so much more caring.

My feelings are all up and down, difficult to control at times, as hormones start to change moods and thinking is scary at times.

The urge for the need to find someone safe who understands and with whom I can share worries that haunt me sometimes.

Music is the balm that brings me joy, sending me dancing, singing, imagination reeling.

In time, life will settle down and perhaps I will find someone to love and share this life of mine.

Together there might be much more ahead to share and certainly worth achieving.

For now, headphones are on for music to gently send me to peaceful, restful sleeping.

2024 © Penny Wobbly of WobblingPen

Photo: Pixabay License

WOBBLING WELL

 

I Wobble to the left!

I Wobble to the right!

I grab hold of a chair.,

To keep upright.

I Wobble to the front!

I Wobble to the back!

I grab an arm,

And hold on tight.

I have been to the Doctor,

He has given me a pill.

So in a day or two,

I hope to be safe and fully upright!

2023 © Penny Wobbly of WobblingPen

AHEAD

 

Every act of thoughtful caring,

Every burst of laughter, 

Every hug and kiss,

Makes this old  world of ours, 

A more comfortable place to live.

2023 © Penny Wobbly of WobblingPen

Photo: Pixabay License

THE RESULTS

 

Young Winston was very upset that his exam results had not reached him yet. He had worked so hard, harder than before, so he could achieve the marks needed to take him to the university of his choice. 

Everyone had theirs; yet his had still not come. It was not fair. If they didn’t come soon, the university of his choice would not have room for him. All his hard work would come to nought if he could not go there. He locked himself in his room, in utter despair. 

The school checked and checked and phones buzzed; still no results were found. Then the frantic ringing of a bicycle's bell, with the postman waving a letter in the air: “I have it here. It fell off one of the machines, was kicked along the floor and was half hidden by a cupboard door.” 

He handed it over and everyone anxiously waited for Winston to declare the results to all waiting there. His face burst into a big smile and he jumped into the air, shouting, “I have done it. Top marks in each subject taken. Please pass me the phone to see if there is still a space for me in my choice of university.” 

Once more, the silent anxious wait you could cut with a knife, until the magic words were heard: “You have a place!” 

Celebrations and congratulations all around, a happy sound, went on throughout the day. Dedication and hard work usually pay. 

2023 © Penny Wobbly of WobblingPen

Photo: Pixabay License

BUS STOP CONVERSATION

 

A lady was waiting at the bus stop as we approached. Which meant the bus was on its way and had not been missed.

Laughing Anna and I discussed the weather, we included the bus stop lady in our discussion.

Our conversation took on another story when I asked, "Have you always lived here?"

She had lived in London most of her life and had worked in Selfridges for 40 years, starting as a very junior trainee sales girl.

She amused us with a glimpse of the morning inspection. 

"You had to show your hands and nails, have your makeup and hair checked. Before being turned round to have stocking seams inspected to make sure they were in a straight line and no ladders. They were very strict, mind you, it has given me a lifetime’s pride in my appearance."

"Telling you all this has reminded me of a very silly thing. I worked in the store for 40 years and never found the staff canteen in the basement. We were only allowed a ten-minute break and by the time you got down there, it was time to go back. I could have asked the senior staff if I was brave enough, but I wasn’t. There were a lot of doors in the basement, I was scared to open them and waste time looking."

I laughed and said "I would have to have found it, after working there all that time, curiosity would have killed me."

She was such a kind lady and permitted me to write up this bus stop conversation. 

I do hope we meet again, to fill in the gaps in her intriguing story.

2023 © Penny Wobbly of WobblingPen

Photo: Pixabay License

TELEPHONE CONNECTION

 

Telephone boxes are now unused

When once we stood in queues

To connect with loved ones 

Far away over land and sea.

Appointments had to be made

To connect up at a special time

On a special day

Or we had no connection.

If there was a storm 

Wires would come down,

Our tears would flow

There would be no conversation.

Now in our pocket

Or bag we slip a phone

In constant action,

Never losing contact with you.

2023 © Penny Wobbly of WobblingPen

Photo by Anna Almeida 

KEEP WRITING

 

You never know, 

From what raw material 

Great creativity will grow, 

So keep writing.

© 2023 Penny Wobbly of WobblingPen

Photo: Pixabay License

The Magic Repair Shop

 

A name which brings a smile and interest when it’s name is mentioned.

Set in the country, in a quiet rural spot, the shop sits snugly with a cosy thatched rooftop.

Protecting the experts working away with ancient skills to restore broken treasures,

To restore memories of family members, many are grieving still.

Stories of accidental damage to treasured possessions from family, friends, or colleagues with gifts thought beyond repair.

Though tenderly kept, as considered far too precious to throw away.

Histories and colours of the gift related to the expert, so they could reconstruct and restore, not stripping the heart and memories from the piece.

Anxiously leaving their treasured possession in expert caring hands.

Awaiting the summons, “Your repair is now complete, awaiting collection.”

The way up to the door with emotions and anxiety bubbling, as they are greeted and welcomed in.

They pause before the shrouded precious item, experts waiting anxiously to display for approval, the repair laboured with the sensitivity of their skilled hands.

“Ready!" Sometimes only a nod and a smile, with a drawn-in breath.

A whisk of material and there before anxious eyes, a gasp smothered by a hand, tears slipping thankfully free.

“It is beautiful, as it used to be! Thank you, thank you, the family will be so pleased.”

A handshake, with treasure clasped in careful hands, or if heavy, lifted gently by all into the safety of a car. Before the final wave and the contented memory-filled journey home.

2022 © Penny Wobbly of WobblingPen

Photo: Pixabay License

CLOCKS

 

In my dreams last night, 

I could not get rid of a terrible sight.

Clocks glowing, multiple faces showings, 

Arms waving going around and around.

It was alarming!

It stopped when my alarm started calling, 

I had been scared of sleeping in 

and missing an exam in the morning.

Thank goodness I was only dreaming!

© 2022 Penny Wobbly of WobblingPen

Photo: Pixabay License

DARE I ARISE

 

On opening my eyelids to gaze at the dawn, my thoughts awaken to tasks yet to be worked on

I fight back please not yet, let me slide back into slumber and the comfort of my bed.

There are days when I can’t wait for that glimmer of light, so I can arise full of energy, to start the day in delight.

Not today, not today it is my wish to stay here well hidden, no energy left for planning, another hour and I should be alright.

My eyelids lower to block out the light to return to the dark of a purposefully extended comfortable night.

© 2022 Penny Wobbly of WobblingPen

Photo: Pixabay License

WHAT AM I?

Words from my pen just fly.

Where do they come from?

Who knows, not I!

The subjects vastly differ: from home and away,

Words people use day by day.

I am just the Pen that places them on the page.

To be read from age to age.

© 2022 Penny Wobbly of WobblingPen 

Photo: Pixabay License

MEMORY STEPS

 

When purposefully stepping forward to do something, forgetting on the way. Standing still, hoping the memory returns. Oh, blow it has gone!

Turn and return, thinking hard on the way. Almost back where I started, when with an exclamation of triumph, the memory suddenly comes flooding back.

© Penny Wobbly of WobblingPen 

Photo: Pixabay License