The poems are about us coming out of lockdown what we did as we came out of it, and my hopes to get a tour of Texas in before the end of the year. Things looked promising, we were hoping the ban on flights to the USA from the UK would soon be lifted there were various festivals coming off in September and October, I had been booked to appear at an event in West Texas, should this have happened. Eventually news came the ban would be lifted in early November, it was on November 8.  Sadly as mentioned a back injury put paid to any hope of getting over this year, so that was it once again another tour missed but as it says in the image “Well..maybe next year” I sure hope so.

 

01.05.21 – 39) Now we’re in May, NaPoWriMo ended yesterday

Numbers of the affected and dying going down

As we come out of lockdown,

Some say it’s not surprising with the number of those vaccinated rising 

But it could also be more sticking to the rules not behaving like fools

We can tell it seems Step two is going well

So it was a surprise to find in some areas cases are on the rise

Some say it could be a slight glitch, it’s not many

It would be better if it weren’t any

And the numbers kept going down as we journey out of lockdown

Hoping for better things to be, on May 17th and we begin Step 3

Going for a meal indoors, to cinemas, to stadiums to watch football

If numbers continue to fall,

And hopefully later in the year I’ll get to Texas after all

 

02.05.21 – 40) A few days ago on facebook I read

It was the tenth anniversary of when William and Kate got Wed

Now I find in the archives of my mind an anniversary of a different kind

I was on my way to Times Square New York on the subway when I read

A news headline, “Bin Laden was dead”

I was going to buy a ticket for one of New York’s special offers,

3 Open top bus tours and a Hudson River cruise

Good value, keep more money in my coffers

I’d told the guy yesterday I would meet him today

I leave the subway head for Times Square and I’m hearing what sounds like cheering

Then I see people in a mood of elation, a real celebration

Spirits high but first I must find the guy, he’s sought, my ticket bought,

He thanks me saying I’ve made his day doing what I said, then I’m away,

I’m with a group of young folks who think it’s great to celebrate

They’d left New Jersey that morning at three saying New York was the place to be,

There were many of different colour and creed, selebrating the mornings deed

A guy asks why is an Englishman celebrating Bin Laden being dead

I looked at him and quietly said

I was a Firefighter in England at the time of this most heinous crime

I told him I was on duty, saw it all on tv I almost cried

When the towers collapsed with my Firefighter brothers inside

The next thing I knew I was doing a tv interview

I glance to one side and I’m seen in Times Square on a tv screen

Interview done we celebrate some more then I’m away for the first open top bus tour

Little knowing I’ll put the whole event in another poetry score

I did write a poem about it and today is the 10th anniversary of it being written, it went down a storm at Bar 13 New York

 

11.05.21 – 41) Yesterday I heard the newscaster say no deaths related to covid recorded today

In all but Wales in the UK let us know the last time was over a year ago

Deaths are falling but it doesn’t mean death won’t come calling

Waiting in the wings to see what a slip up brings

With other variants about we don’t want to be caught out

Then tonight there were more, twenty a full score

Shows we still need to beware, shows we still need to take care

 

13.05.21 - 42) I hadn’t driven with care and now my car needed a repair

Time and date arranged use the motorway not wanting to be late

Reminded me of driving along a Texas interstate

Not knowing there would be more reminders to come and them some

Car dropped off and so I wasn’t static, I got a courtesy car, it was an automatic

No problems soon I was away, having driven one often in the USA

Found a country music station, like the ones in the American nation

It sure takes me back of Texas memories there’s no lack

Like an early morning drive on Interstate-35

It’s playing an’ I’m thinkin’ of an early mornin’ run, rain or sun

An’ I’ve some volunteering to do at Austin Wildlife Rescue

Really help the journey pass, real fine as I drive along the 969

It’s playin’ again an’ I’m back headin’ West to Lamesa an’ my friends for the annual Earth Day Fest

Wherever I was goin’ I had country music flowin’

There was no lack as I went to the Rio Grande Valley and back

On it I could depend to cheer me up no end

Songs about life in bygone times inspiring my rhymes

Driving back to hand the car in, it was still playin’ an’ I thought

It was like at the end of a tour driving back to the airport

Sad it was to be no more but it was nice though to find,

If only for a couple of days I was back in Texas in my mind

 

15.05.21 – 43) News we were dreading, the India variant was spreading

Was everything in vain are we heading for lockdown again

We were told to beware to still take care

And wait and see what happens on May 17 after all that’s been

How will things pan out will there still be doubt?

17.05.21 – 44) Out of lockdown Step 3, how’s things going to be

Pub dining indoors back again drinkers no longer blue celebrate with a pint or two

People flying away for some fun in the sun others bound to cinema or sports ground

Up to 30 people at certain events all said beyond doubt down to a successful vaccine rollout

But with the India strain on the attack let’s hope there’s not another setback

 

18.05.21 – 45) Out of lockdown Step 3 plus one, doubt already begun

Things not as clear, cracks starting to appear

As it all been in vain as pubs and shops may have to shut again

Social distancing to remain for longer the India variant getting stronger

As we’re told in a certain area new cases have increased tenfold

Some doubt restrictions may be rolled out

Or there may, be a June 21 delay

 

01.06.21 – 46) June first, some had been fearing the worst

As throughout May some continued to say

There still could be an end of lockdown delay

But the media had lauded the fact that no deaths had been recorded

This time Wales joined the fray, not a single death in the entire UK

Although some say it could be because of Bank Holiday

And a reporting delay. So is it joy or sorrow, we’ll find out tomorrow

 

03.06.21 – 47) It was on the news yesterday, twelve had passed away

Some said “It’s not surprising with new cases of the variant rising

Things not on song what the hell is going wrong?”

For end of lockdown we yearn but will there be a U turn?

Will our hopes have been in vain, will they have been dashed again

Or do we still live in hope that it will all be done on June 21

 

05.06.21 – 48) Cases rising again thanks to the new strain

On the news is seen Portugal is moved to Amber from Green

Holidaymakers learn, they have to quarantine on their return

At their own expense, from a given date

So to get back before, some are willing to pay a bit more

Thinking it’ll be fine getting back before the deadline

Now they’ve been given a tip off and probably cheaper than a hotel quarantine rip off

Back to their home nation, are they wishing they’d have had a staycation?

 

06.06.21 - 49) Open mic going down, on the moors above Baildon town

At last, a chance to get out, speak out

Time to share our verse song and rhyme

Been planning it for a while it’s happening at last, hope it’s a blast

Made it known, plenty of interest shown

Find the place with plenty of audience space

Dummy runs done rain or sun, make a video of how to get there

So everyone knows where

Daily computer work done, no sign yet of the sun

I look out the window with some doubt, spots of rain on the window pane

Then think “Oh blast” as it comes down slightly fast

Don’t think it’ll last at best, the sky looks brighter to the West

Time for church then I’ll be away for Poetry on the Moor today

 

50) Church done sky clear, I thought time to get out of here

Obey the speed limits drive with care in under an hour I’m there

To my delight a wonderful sight

People gathered round some helping out,

I think “it’s gonna be good without doubt”

Nicky sees me and says where I want to be

And that things are on track and what time I need to be back

Walking back the event starts at half past one,

I thought “how nice to be out in the sun

All sharing our poetic bounty in a beautiful part of God’s own county”

Me and Nicky got the show on the go

Said where everything was and what to do even how to use the portable loo

Then we begun it seemed right that the first poem we had

Was Nicky’s tribute to her dad, a great start recited from the heart

Performers coming up one by one, under the Yorkshire sun

Then majestically in flight appeared a red kite

What happened next no one could refute

It seemed right to let Nicky read her poetic tribute

Then we carried on and more came upon

The stage some having come many a mile reciting with a smile

Walkers stop to see what’s going on, listen a while and then move on

Come the end we’re walking away all thinking what a fantastic day

 

07.06.21 – 51) Yesterday had gone alright, today on facebook what a sight

Compliments flying thick and fast, it really had been a blast

So well it had gone down,

The First Yorkshire open mic coming out of lockdown

Pics and vids telling the story

Of poets and singers and their moments of glory

Who was there enjoying the sun in the open air

All were glad and a great time they had

And all agreed we want more so another one’s arranged for July 4

 

12.06.21 - 52) The newspapers said it would not be done

All restrictions lifted on June 21

Not to dejected by some it was expected

Hardly surprising with the new variant and once more, cases rising

Statistics counting, deaths mounting

It’s just that I was hoping to get to Texas in August

Will it be, we’ll have to wait and see

14.06.21 – 53Yesterday Johnson confirmed it wouldn’t be done

Lockdown ending completely on June 21

Facebook jokers had a ball saying it may never be done at all

Cartoons appearing, scripts jeering

Some aren’t too blue, they’ve got the EURO’s to look forward to

And others think it’s a good deal being able to get out for a drink and a meal

But it seems the new variant’s stronger, we have to wait four weeks longer

 

18.06.21 – 54) We’ve had sun, they forecast rain, told us cos’ it had been warm

We should expect a thunderstorm

I’m thinking have they made another blunder

We’ve got the rain but no lightening or thunder

I remember the time a colleague once said

“Three day forecast, they can’t get it right three hours ahead”.

But now the weeks done and

I’ve finished what could be my last food parcel run

Now it’s the weekend to come with poetry on Saturday and Sunday

Then out with more parcels on Monday

 

20.06.21 - 55) I went with intent to read at a poetry event

Delighted to be invited

To Bradford Cathedral a bastion of Christianity

To read poems about humanity, wearing a tee shirt from a Muslim charity

I’d worn before on overseas aid missions in 1994

Was told I could chose to bring some unwanted shoes

It seemed to my dismay I’d given them all away

Then I found a pair I no longer wore they made my feet sore

They got too tight so it seemed right to give them away at Bradford today

They were a size nine so I thought they’d be fine for someone with slimmer feet than mine

Made my way there put them on the Cathedral stair

Waited a while and then some for the others to come

They did arrive and the reading began at five

Really nice we all went round twice

My first round was how war can change our fellow man

My second about new life as children emerge from the strife

To learn how to live, how to love and how to give

And precious infants being born in peace on a sparkling morn 

A guy there, said he would like to read but had nothing to share

I thought it would be fine, to gave him some of mine

He read and I thought “Oh My, I couldn’t have give them to a better guy

All of us gave our all so we could tell

When asked how went the day we could say “Went the Day Well”

 

21.06.21 – 56) Today was supposed to be Freedom Day

What we’d all longed for no restrictions anymore, but it was not to be as we would see

We couldn’t believe Covid would have another trick up its sleeve

This one was a real belter, the Indian variant they now called Delta

Hardly surprising when cases again began rising

Those in the know had said it would show

This was not time for full relaxation or cessation

Not fully with sadness riven, there were a few concessions given

At weddings more could meet, hopefully no rioting in the street

But we’ve got to wait four weeks more till we know the score

And I’ll keep watching and waiting while time’s abating

But what I really want to hear, in my ear is an engine sound

A jet engine as once more I’m Texas bound

 

27.06.21 – 57) Do was we say not as we do this turned out to be true

Hancock got found out when a photo came out

Behaving like fool breaking the social distancing rule

Readers agog at him having a snog,

To some the shock of their life, it wasn’t with his wife

Kissing while supposed to be working, unaware of the cameras lurking

The paper went on to say, it happened in May

A disgrace when the rules were still in place

Now what he did we all know it, but why did they take so long to show it

But at last the writing was on the wall, another of the mighty takes a fall

Johnson tried to play it down, but the media went to town

With jubilation at Hancock’s resignation

Now we learn of Sajid Javid’s return

Resigned from office for being too bold, wouldn’t do as he was told

Johnson had said “tell your staff to go” Javid had said “No”

Not what Johnson expected, he wanted the staff to be those he selected

Now to get things on track, Johnson has brought him back

Hancock gone in disgrace Javid brought in to take his place

Given his job to do wants to rush it through

So keen, to do it all by July 19

Labour not cock a hoop said it could be like a fox in a chicken coop

 

02.07.21 – 58) In Batley and Spen there was by election,

The parties had made their selection

The list was seen, in total there stood sixteen

Labour were expected to lose their seat, heading for defeat

Forecasting doom and gloom

The polls went on to say the Tories would win the day

And to take note, The Workers Party may split the vote

Others knew their candidate had won before could he do it once more

Polling day at last and the votes were cast

Far right candidates to their cost found their deposits well and truly lost

They would also find, they’d only got 1.4% of the vote combined

The winner had class she was a local lass

Though she is under the rose of red

The constituents voted not for the party, but for the person instead

Some said it was only a small majority but all the same,

It only takes one goal to win a game

 

02.07.21 - 59) Food parcel delivered and back to the unit I’m bound,

When I hear a scraping sound

And think “Oh hell just when things were going well”

Some parcels out others packed and waiting

But no time to be debating

No time to waste, to a local garage with all haste

The mechanic heard the noise and went on to say

Sounds like your brake pads but we can’t do them today

Bring it in Monday at one; we’ll soon get them done

Drive my car home with all care

Put it in the garage and leave it there

This weekend I’ll have to find something else to do

What really would make me blue, if I were to miss, Poetry on the Moor 2

 

04.07.21 - 60) Yesterday I looked at the train times

So I could get to Baildon to share my rhymes

Nicky’s idea saying it’s a way to get you here

Adding all you need to do, get to Shipley we’ll send a car for you

Timetable easy to understand so things were planned

And to my elation Martin said he’d collect me from the station
But not so today, the weather has had the last say

Event cancelled I’m thinking damn an’ blast, thunderstorms forecast

Didn’t seem funny when over in Cas’ it was sunny

But later news began to filter through

Skies above the moor had changed to grey from blue

Photos of the rain coming down making reciting there tricky,

So I’m thinking good call Nicky

And she’s decided there’ll be, on August 11, Poetry on the Moor 3

 

05.07.21 – 61) Someone said “let’s have a thank you day”

Planning it for July 4

The ver y same day as the second Poetry on the Moor

A day to clap and cheer the work done by the volunteer

And bless, our heroes in the NHS

Celebrities having their say about backing the day

In some areas it seemed to go right

But many were unaware till they saw it on the news last night

After a day that saw the rain pour down on Baildon Moor

So I never got to do my rhyme

And with regards to Thank You Day maybe they’ll do better next time

That was yesterday; soon I have to be away

To the garage I’ll run, get the cars brake pads done

Then I can cheer and clap the garage lass or chap

Their skills coming to the fore

So I can get back to delivering food parcels once more.

And say, “my hero for today”

 

62) Car to the garage no time for slacking

Away to the unit to do some packing

I start nice and steady, then get a call saying my car’s ready

I said they were quick, they said it was a stone, I thought no need to moan

Just bad luck it had got stuck

Left in things could have got worse

More damage more cost and with this poem an extra verse

So be thankful get the car and away I’ll run

And get the rest of today’s food parcels done

 

63) Well Johnson has come out to say full steam ahead for Freedom Day

But it’s still 14 days away, and he’s added there may still be a delay

As according to the media we find, in seven days he may change his mind

Will it be hell or heaven as he makes another announcement on July 11

Will the optimism last or are things moving too fast

Or will pessimism win the day and the rules stay

Will he listen to medical folk or treat their advice as a joke

Or just between me and you has he really got a clue

Between you and me, we’ll just have to wait and see.

 

10.07.21 – 64) Covid cases still surging and the medical people urging

The Government to hold sway and not make July 19 Freedom Day

In one week cases went, up by over 27%

To slow them down they’re tv1rying and people are dying

Not as many as before but we still need to ask “how many more?”

Tomorrow at Wembley is Euro final day,

Police have asked people without tickets to stay away

But it’ll fall on stoney ground, to London they’ll still be bound

The long journey they’ll take, leaving chaos and destruction in their wake

One thing’ll be plain above all, social distancing and masks will go to the wall

They’ll be first to complain if cases rise further and we get lockdown again

 

11.07.21 – 65) It was thought right and just

To try again for Poetry on the Moor in August

It would be Poetry on the Moor 3

Poetry on the Moor 2 had been in vain, called off because of thundery rain

But for a few hardy souls who went to watch the storm

Then to a cafe to get nice and warm

Decided to ask if their poetry could be read and were told, “yes go ahead”

So they read away and some of the customers decided to stay

So not to blue it they still called it Poetry on the Moor 2

And Nicky decided on another for today

Come rain or sun it would go ahead and start at one

Though few in number everything set up as before

We’re all ready to read our score and then more

Not too taxing no need to rush, between poets, relax to the hush

Sun at first then not surprising, dark clouds on the horizon

But they keep away and we have a another great day

We end it begins to spit but that’s it

We pack up and times abaiting another event waiting

Not a moment too soon to get home for Runcible Spoon

Started at six, some familiar faces, and more that we’d never seen before

Free verse or rhyme once more it was poetry time  

Finished before eight some may head

To the tv for the Euros final, as for me

I decided I’m gonna listen to music an’ write about today instead

 

12.07.21 – 66) England lost some supporters cried

This morning the papers praised how they'd tried

Even The Sun said how well they'd done

But The Star said "anyone for conkers?"  a comment I thought snotty

From a piece of rubbish not even fit, for the wiping of ones botty

 

67) I didn’t watch the Euro Final last night I wrote poetry instead

Later I would hear England were a goal ahead

I was using the time to capture the day’s events in rhyme

How I was glad and the good time I had,

Once more at another Poetry on the Moor

And less there meant we all got, more time to do our slot

And I could do my rhyme

Wearing my new Yorkshire tee shirt for the first time

Later while typing I would read that England had lost their lead

Still 28 minutes to go, maybe more still time for them to score once more

So I thought but it all came to nought

Extra time 30 minutes more for them to score

No matter how hard they tried the scores were still tied

Like as not it would be decided from the penalty spot

I’d finished my writing so took a seat hoping Italy would be beat

But it was not to be, the penalty scores were England 2 Italy 3

I really felt for the guys that failed to score, cos’ there’d be more

Criticism on the way, the racists would have a field day

I took no delight as the media proved I was right,

Disgusted at what I read I thought  “Racism really has no place in sport”  

 

17.07.21 - 69)  It's been a busy week and now the wekend's here

More parcels than last week a good few more

And this morning in comes another four

Soon they’re done, more packed for Monday then back home I run

Reflecting on the week just gone

The Euro’s Final England v Italy over and done

Football didn’t come home it went to Rome

England fans blue losing on penalties 3 - 2

Racism raised its ugly head once more

When three black footballers failed to score

Behaviour to defame the so called beautiful game

And a spate, of social media posts full of hate

But then came hence, posts in their defence

Quite a mix, one so fine from a boy as young of 9

Then more and more from children almost shouting aloud

Of the three players they were all proud

And never to yield, to racism on or off the field

And the three, were role models people they aspired to be

Will people ever be taught racism has no place in sport

Well it’s Wembley again this aft, for those who ply the Rugby League craft

Let hope our local teams turn on the gas

And bring Rugby glory back to Fev an’ Cas’

 

70) Fev were on first playing York City Knights

The 1895 Cup someone expounded

Was in honour of the year the Northern Union was founded

The first final a dream, won by another Yorkshire team

Sheffield Eagles proving the better side, beating Widnes from Merseyside

I google the game for the score and find Fev 41 York 34

Something to cheer, one of the cups coming back up here

Then I’m at an open mic on zoom but a feeling of gloom

As I look to find Cas’ were 6 points behind

Later would read they had a 6 point lead

Playing without mistake they held the lead at the break

Second half, were Cas’ hopes dying as the score showed both teams tying

Then later saw the score St Helens had a lead of 4

10 minutes to go a lead of 8 I hoped Cas’ wouldn’t leave it to late

To go on the attack, and make a come back

I look again and feel bereft, score still the same and only 5 minutes left

Then Cas’ were in a reyt fix as St Helens scored another 6

Dismayed the score stayed the same 26 – 12 St Helens won the game

But the fans’ll wave an cheer, no racism here,

Although some may feel like crying

You can bet they’ll say, “Well done lads, thanks for trying”.

Yes racism can be taught, loyalty can’t be bought

18.07.21 – 71) Nothing bad on social media today

About Cas’ Tigers losing yesterday

One post said, “the end of this seasons dream,

But Cas’ Tigers will always be his team”

And live in hope not fear for better luck next year

 

72) Now less than three hours away, July 19 so called Freedom Day

To revellers delight, night clubs will open after midnight

Restrictions eased but care urged, cases have surged

Deaths there are more but not as many as before

No more masks, or social distancing at last, some say the worst is past,

Others that it’s yet to come and one thing expected, more will be infected

The experts say it may all be in vain,

In five weeks we could be on lockdown again

What may not have been expected,

Those who’ve been vaccinated are getting affected

So it still may be weeks or months away till the USA

Lifts the ban on flights from the UK

 

19.07.21 – 73) Well today’s the day they call Freedom Day

There’s no shopping task, so no problem with a mask

For now anyway but soon I have to be away

And as the day unravels, I can get what I need on my travels.

But first food parcels out so those in need can have a feed

 

74) Get to the unit and find; I’ve left my keys behind

Down goes my heart so much for my planned early start

Soon I’m back, car loaded and I’m away, it seems just like any other day

Some with masks some without, and I’m taking the parcels out

Not exactly a wild celebration sweeping across the nation

Many nightclubbers still in bed maybe nursing a throbbing head

Then out comes the sun, I let the day run

Take things steady get tomorrows parcels ready

Most deliveries done just one more, that comes in shortly after four

It’s done things have gone alright

It’s been like any other day now I’m away

Now take my ease before a zoom anthology launch tonight

 

75) Another anthology this time a trilogy

Three funny ones about what went down in the first lockdown

Hilarity in an anthology for a Clothing Bank charity

Lovely event everything so well meant

All playing our part reciting from the heart

I hope it’ll sell and really do well

Well now time to call it a day and see what Freedom Day +1 brings

I think it’s gonna be a while before the fat lady sings

 

20.07.21 – 76) Freedom day plus one, look outside, street swathed in sun

Shorts the order of the day time for a snuggle with Milo before I’m away

Remember to take my keys today

Clients waiting as time’s abating, packing done and away I run

Driving round the town, nothing special going down

But my next trip to the USA seems to be getting further away

Not surprising when cases are again rising

Still I hope it’s not too long before once more I roam

Texas, my spiritual home

 

21.07.21 – 77) Break of day, sky’s grey

Outside it’s cool but maybe not for long

Forecasters say the sun’s going to be hot and strong

But for now I’m not bothered about the weather

Me an’ Milo have our morning time together

Then breakfast, paper work and away, to do the first deliveries of the day

Get to the unit and think “hang on”

Noticing one of my front wheel trims has gone

Orders done, I’m off to see about another one

On the motorway radio playin’ a song in a familiar style

Once more I find in my mind

I’m back on the Interstate travelin’ many a mile

To an open mic or to a place I like

I just wish it were so as to the car dealers I go

Need to order it so it’s done, back home I run

Thinking of anything I can do

To add to this poem and call it Freedom Day + 2

 

22.07.21 - 78) Covid cases across the pond once more ascending

My hopes of August in Texas descending

But some say the peak may be past,

As this Thursday’s cases are lower than last

And what’s more, on Sunday the percentage dropped from 43 to 34

But it won’t be till August 9 they know for sure

At best and that’s two days after the Georgetown Poetry Fest

And Wednesday the deaths were more

Up to 84 from 49 the Wednesday before

Is it worth my hopes raisin’

I’m pencilled in with Poets from the Permian Basin

We’ll be heard an’ seen in Midland College on Thursday August 19

Me doin’ my rhymes about my travelin’ times

With some of the best, Poets from the West

Sounds really great could be my most prestigious event to date

And I could be, talkin’ about what inspires me,

From music to what’s happenin’ at the time, and I start composin’ a rhyme

An’ just go an’ let the inspiration flow

An’ how it feels to be lookin’ for cheaper deals

Lower prices that’s just right, for car hire, accommodation and flight

How not to be beat, findin’ good cheap places to eat

Yup I can teach ‘em how to save a heap, an’ travel America on the cheap

An’ the audience would really find, what goes on in a Road Poets mind

 

24.07.21 - 79) Yesterday’s chart showed the covid cases dropping

This morning I’m out for the early shopping

A week away from what was initially going to be departure day

Things aren’t looking to good, rules appear to be as clear as mud

Alarm bells ringing as the track and trace app starts pinging

No debate, recipients must self isolate, at home they lurk can’t go to work

Track and trace pings again and again, hopes of going out for some in vain

Problem is they don’t want to lurk they need to get to work

Cos they’re knowing they keep our food supply chain going

Packers, drivers, shelf stackers, it’s plain,

Without them there’d be empty shelves again

A feeling of dread if panic buying again rears its ugly head

Then a law was passed saying it’s for the best

To give certain essential workers a daily test

Their best plan to date but like other plans I hope there’s not a wait

Not even a fraction, let’s get in put into action

 

80) Had they lifted the ban on flights to the USA from the UK

Today is a week away from what was originally going to be departure day

That was my plan, but the call of local live open mics was the stronger

So I delayed it a while longer

Three live open mics at home, a great curtain raiser to a Texas poetry roam

Friday Saturday and Sunday, fly out Monday

And still have the same time, my poetry to rend

Cos’ I’ll add the two days to the end

 

26.07.21 – 81) If things were going right today 

My 2021 Texas Tour would be seven days away

Poetry on the Moor the day before

Then early night before the flight

So I thought I’d better get a covid passport letter

Requested it online, followed the instructions, all went fine

Should arrive in 5 days time in case I get chance to fly out and do my rhyme

So will I or won’t I go, how soon will I know

What will it be, I guess I’ll just have to wait and see

 

28.07.21 – 82) Yesterday the media said “Down recorded cases go,

now six days in a row”

Somewhat surprising as hospital cases and deaths still appear to be rising

Still more but not as many as before

But today I found things had changed round

Hopes of it abating were in vain, diagnosed cases up again

Up by 4,000 more than the day before

On the bright side the media went on to stress

The number of deaths was 40 less

So what will happen on August 16 when it’ll be a more relaxed quarantine

The date when double jabbed adults will no longer need to isolate

If in close contact no need for dread, they can take a PCR test instead

And from August 2nd, quarantine scrapped

For double jabbed visitors from the USA

I’ll be glad when it’s said about going the opposite way

 

31.07.21 – 83) Today’s the day I planned to be away to Texas USA

A full month away, spend some time with Thom my poetry brother

Home for a month then back over for another.

Events planned, things looked grand

When Biden came to the UK in June, optimistic he’d lift the travel ban soon

So began to plan, some time away looking at what was going down

In August a festival in Georgetown

Then something more an’ my hopes were raisin’

To be part of another in West Texas’ Permian Basin

So an itinerary was done, it would be itinerary one

I’d decided to stay and take in extra events, one for Yorkshire Day

So then Texas beckoned for August 2nd

The home events would be the ideal way

To spend the time before departure day

Then an early night before Trev’s Texas Tour 10

Add the time missed to the end so I would still have the same time

To travel writin’ an’ sharin’ my rhyme

An’ five days in my spiritual home relaxin’ not too over taxin’

An’ mornings come sun or rain, helping at Austin Wildlife Rescue again

Before going to what was going down in Georgetown

Meanwhile plans were taking shape for more events further West

Not quite a fest but events being promoted so people would know it

Was the Permian Basin Poets with the UK’s Trev the Road Poet

Time past and Biden hadn’t shifted, the travel ban had not been lifted

It looked like it was not going to be and so was put together itinerary three

Georgetown missed live but I can catch it online well the first day, anyway

Pack on Sunday fly out on Monday

And so begin another poetry roam, in Texas my spiritual home

 

01.08.21 – 84) Today’s Yorkshire Day, went for a test yesterday

For on Friday I got to know, someone had tested positive via lateral flow

They went for a PCR but later we would hear she was in the clear

That was fine but I’d already been for mine

This morning I gave a silent cheer,

When a text arrived saying I was also in the clear

And what’s more I could go to Poetry on the Moor 4

So after church I’m on my, way thinking of yesterday

An event on line that went fine

Should have been outdoor, the same as Poetry On The Moor 4

It still went ahead but on zoom instead

Had a ball, a good time had by all,

What’s more I got to hear poets I’ve never heard before

New voices reading their choices,

Their innermost feelings, knowing no ceilings

Baildon Moor was too muddy Nicky did declare

So it was moved to Roberts Park in Saltaire

Once again it looked like rain but no dismay once again it stopped away

As our small but determined band recited in the bandstand

Again people would stop a while, listen and smile

Watching them walk away I wondered if we’d made their day

As some read their poetic bounty

In an accent showing their pride in Gods own county

First timers to veteran rhymers,

It was showin’ how some’s confidence was growin’

One poet doin’ fine accompanying his poetry with sign

Really grand so his deaf boyfriend would understand

A great day but  as I’m drivin away

There’s a slight light twinge of sorrow,

That I’m not flying to Texas tomorrow

 

02.08.21 – 85) Today was another day I had hoped to be away

Another poetry roam of Texas my spiritual home

In time to take part in what was goin’ down

At the Poetry Festival in Georgetown

Takin’ part, recitin’ from the heart

Score after score an’ some they ain’t heard before

Ah well we’ll see what the coming week’ll bring

An’ next Monday will I hear those jet engines sing

An’ I’m flyin’ through the air

Thinkin’ ‘Keep safe Texas the Road Poet’ll be there’.

 

03.08.21 – 86) Had things gone right, today would have been a delight

It would have been my first full day in Texas USA

First stop the AWR leisurely drive in my hire car

Choice of where to stop for breakfast on the way

What better start to the day

Favourite music on the radio sets my inspiration on the go

Once there ask which animals are in my care

Attending to their dietary needs, be it fruit, nuts or seeds

Get their cages nice an clean, an’ it’s grand,

When I get to hold ‘em in my hand,

All cheek an’ charm as some try to run up my arm

My joy I won’t hide as I do the job with pride 

Attendin’ to the critturs need

When caring for God’s creatures is done away I run

Once more Walmart sought and once more another cellphone bought

So I can keep in contact with friends

And give it  to someone without one when my tour ends

Then it’s away to do my rhyme and have some me time

Relax and take my ease at Travis Lake

Or I suppose I could sit by the Colorado River and compose

Inspiration coming to the fore as it has done so often before

Or more inspiration seek, at Zilker Park and Barton Creek

Before the day ends it could be coffee or an open mic with friends 

Alas for now it is not to be, as for the future we’ll just wait and see

 

04.08.21 – 87)  An increase in attendances did tell

Corrboree hybrid was goin’ well

Then I read the e mail things weren’t goin’ fine

Tonight’s open mic would be only be online

Hardly surprisin’ when once again hospitalisation cases were again risin’

Delta variant leading them a merry dance, can’t afford to take a chance

Delta variant once more on the roam, in Texas my spiritual home

Proving for now the stronger, guess I’ll have to be patient a while longer

 

09.08.21 - 88)  I’d been to other events at Bradford and Baildon Moor

The last one was grand Roberts Park in Saltaire, the bandstand

Now to say the least it’s another open mic to Bradford’s East,

Leeds the return of Soundbites, one of my regular Monday nights

Been on Zoom, when there was room

Two shows in a row, then someone else has a go

Kept many from feeling down, online open mics in lockdown

Now it’s being lifted and moods are being shifted

An’ it’s gonna be, outside in a marquee

So food parcels and paperwork done, quick change and away I run

Usual traffic jams on the way, plenty of time so no dismay

Then I’m there with time to spare, so Subway had, price weren’t bad

Got the show on the go, did what we came to do, my how time flew

As well as my rhyme, it was someone else’s first time

Out on the town after a long lockdown, not at all blue

Ebony my Black Horse mascot was there too

 

13.08.21 – 89) Yesterday food parcels out a daily task

First one delivered where the client did ask

Where do the food parcels come from

My rapier wit and she was struck dumb

I said “From the food bank”, a reply that would rank

As really cool, proving once more

Cas’ folk can be as funny, as those from Liverpool

 

17.08.24 – 90) Yesterday was the date

When double jabbed people no longer needed to self isolate

Apparently they expect, the vaccine to protect

But still think it’s best to follow up with a pcr test

Some may think it’s a disgrace, with other restrictions still in place

Some may think it’s good,

But then there will be others to whom it’s as clear as mud

 

19.08.21 – 91) Tonight should have been great 

An open mic in Lone Star State

Giving my best with Permian Basin Poets in the West

We hoped they’d lift the flight ban from the UK

So once more to my Spiritual home and another poetry roam

First an open mic going down in Georgetown

Then it was planned Summer Rhymers an event in Midland

It was going to be great, today was the date

But the ban stayed and I was dismayed

But they had a plan, my poems would be recited by another man

Poems about Texas and where I’d been, images of me shown on a screen

I was sad not to be there but will not mope,

I’ll try to be positive and live in hope not fear

That I can get over later this year

 

20.08.21 -92) An e mail was sent

With a request to tell me how Summer Rhymers went

And I would take the time to do a follow up rhyme

An e mail came saying it was an enjoyable night

They’d had a ball, good time had by all

William recited what I’d writ, he said it had been a hit

Adding it had been a delight to recite

From a list, the ones he liked best, that evening in Texas’s West

To give voice, spoiled for choice,

Only so many he could do, because there were others to read to

Shame the evening I had to miss, it sounded like poetry bliss

How I’d loved to have shared my rhyme with poets I’d be meeting for the first time

The email went on to say the people would like to see and definitely hear more

Poems from Yorkshires travelling poetry troubadour

To my delight there was an extended invite

So when the ban is lifted over there I’ll fly

So they can meet in person “The Rhymey Limey” poetry guy

 

21.08.21- 93)  An event in Monahans would have been the perfect way

To end my brief stay, before once more carryin’ on my tour 

Enjoyin’ an evenin’ of Arts in the Park from 7 till dark

A real great time sharin’ music, arts an’ rhyme

All well meant at a family friendly event

Then in the mornin’ headin’ out while it’s still dark

As South I’d run not waitin’ for the sun

Headin’ for the Valley once more to see what other adventures lay in store

 

27.08.21 – 94)  News out yesterday 7 more travel bans lifted

Including Canada but not yet the USA

It’s frustrating all the waiting, but nor surprising

Cases in Texas and Florida still rising

To know the score I have to wait three weeks more

To find out if then is the time and I can go and do my rhyme

 

01.09.21 – 95) Twenty years on an astronomical cost, many lives lost

Afghanistan back in the hands of the Taliban

Afghan army caught hopping there was no stopping

Like a tidal surge they rumbled all resistance crumbled

The population in a daze Kabul fell in a few days,

They’d done it none stop caught the world on the hop

No leader at the country’s head, the president had already fled

Fearing the worst put his own safety first

Didn’t give a jot, left the others to face their lot

Left it to the West to do their best to get their passport holders home

Emergency airlift land load and way twenty four hours a day

Military in once again a time limit set would it be in vain

Getting those trying to escape on a plane

They could only take so many, nationals first but it seemed like any

Anything tried to get away,

Bribery and corruption could have been the order of the day

Airlift over some nationals still stuck

Fearing for their lives under the Taliban, hoping to get out via Pakistan

And twenty year on was it worth the cost all those lives lost

International forces departed. Afghanistan heading back to  before it started

Was it all in vain, just for multinationals to triumph again

 

07.09.21 – 96) More live poetry events at last should be a real blast

Thursday and I’m found Otley bound away I run in the early evening sun

Friday, poetry and a talk with a group of poets in the city of York

Saturday more poetry charms,

Talking Zebras at Cleckheaton’s Wickam Arms

Then Sunday event number four, the fifth Poetry on the Moor

Number five Tuesday and Yorks Spoken Word once more is live

Yes of open mics there’s been quite a mix

Had I known about Puzzle Hall Poets on Monday I could have made it six

 

14.09.21 - 97) I seem to remember it was said to be September

When things may be shifted and the flight ban to the USA lifted

But with covid variants seeming stronger it seems it’ll be a while longer

Some don’t think it’s fair Americans can come here but we can’t go there

And it seems my hopes are in vain,

It could be winter before the travel corridor opens again

16.21 - 98) Things happening not to my liking,

It seems covid cases in Texas are still spiking

In the UK something surprising, cases falling but deaths rising

I had hoped to get to Texas in the fall

Now I’m wondering if I’ll get there at all

 

20.09.21 – 99) 20th September a date to remember

They said flights to the US will resume in November

Have had my jabs and got my covid pass

3 days before I go I know where to get a test

Shame I’ll miss Octobers Waco Fest

So I’ll start looking for a decent flight to be booking

If I can make sense of it all and it doesn’t drive me up the wall

Then there’ll be a car if I’m going far

Motel in which to dwell, insurance if things go wrong and not like a song

Then there’s my ESTA so they’ll let me in and at best

A negative covid test and the rest, like as not a covid pass I’ve already got 

Just the other stuff and it all can’t come soon enough

 

29.09.21 – 100) I had a look at flights to book

Time to be trying to see what dates and times I could be flying

But on every date they were leaving late

Later than I had hoped, not the time I usually flew

But they would have to do, one stop preferred to two

Prices were cheap I could have again saved a heap

But it was not to be, when I tried to book flights were denied

The day they put it in writing, an’ I can plan when I will be alighting

On my 2021 roam of Texas my spiritual home

 

15.10.21- 101) From September to October and I still didn’t know

When I would be able to go

When would I be able to begin my Texas roam

Away from the madness going on at home

Rumours going round of a petrol shortage did abound

Life became really trying as once again there was panic buying

Battles being fought, on the forecourt people at their worst

Filling station owners putting profits first

As buyers filled illegal containers, plastic or tin

Anything they could get it in, either unaware

Or didn’t care for the danger there, no one tried to stop it

Asked if I was hoping to get to Texas I said

“Yes but the date would be anyone’s guess”

Then it was said it could be November 8 it looked like problem solved

Then they said it might not be, because of what was involved

So many departmental hoops to jump through, plus other things to do

Conditions to be met have been stated, I’ve been double vaccinated,

And to keep things right can get a test before the flight

I’m not bothered about wearing a mask all the way

A small price to pay for a month away in my favourite part of the USA

 

19.10.21 - 102) Waxing lyrical, some of the audience hysterical

With laughter shortly after

Three from an anthology for charity to bring forth hilarity

The first a humorous description

About what happened when I collected a prescription

The second I warned beware I swear

Before I read, mentioning it was what the other bloke said

The third had them laughing all the more

When cucumbers and batteries came to the fore

A forth came with ease, about pudding made from peas

Using tins of it as props, pulling out all the stops

Then the old woman that lived in a shoe, no mistake

An old nursery rhyme with a modern take

Lastly one inspired by a song as I drove along

Making may way along another Texas highway

Then whilst Leah was singing I felt imagination ringin

In my mind and find her song delightin’

I’m listenin’ an’ writin’

Like I would have been had I been away

In my spiritual home in Texas USA

It was a delight The Britannia at Pudsey certainly ruled the waves last night

 

23.10.21 – 103) From what I’ve read,

It looks like the US opening is going ahead

On the planned date November 8

So book my covid test for then, and if clear fly out on November 10

But priority number one, get my ESTA done

Without it I don’t travel don’t want my hopes to unravel

Then there’ll be more

Things to get ready for a belated 2021 Texas Poetry Tour

 

 28.10.21 – 104) ESTA form filled in and sent, once it was done

It was out on the food parcel run

But it didn’t go as planned the day was in vain

A wrong move and sudden pain

Back put out and planned departure date in doubt

Came home in pain found I’d got my ESTA wrong and had to apply again

Two days in bed give it some rest

Up on the third day take things steady and hope for the best

Even managed a poetry event, but what made me a bit blue

Was I missed the first two

I could have had a ball six open mics in a row

 

28.10.21 - 105)  Five days on, some of the pain gone

Still not right wondering how much longer, will my back get stronger

Though it is pleasing when the pain appears to be easing

Then it seems in vain when a sudden move brings it back again

Now my tour seems in doubt the best that could be

Would be to cut it from four weeks to three.

After that hope is lost two weeks is not worth the cost

So gentle exercise and rest hope and pray it’s for the best

And before the years out I can do a roam of Texas, my spiritual home

 

02.11.21 - 106) Back slightly better, yesterdays massage could be working

But no time for lurking

Some exercises have been hinted so download and get them printed

Then ESTA printed then get it scanned so things can go as planned

Stored to usb and disc so there’s minimal risk

Of it getting lost and finding out to my cost

It’s not there so I can’t go anywhere

As once happened on a previous tour something wrong,

Check in not going like a song

Luckily I had a printed copy to hand hopes not wrecked it was checked

Things went right and I caught my flight

Once more on my way to Texas USA

 

03.11.21 -107) Waking up somewhat pleasing

Discomfort appears to be easing

Must have done them right the exercises last night

Tried to carry them out to the letter, movement now getting better

Let’s hope it stays that way as so carried on the day

For in the  afternoon no time to gab, I went for my booster jab

Exercises may have been in vain, I tripped and jarred my back again

So do my best to give it more rest

Hoping there’s no sorrow, and things is better tomorrow

 

04.11.21 – 108) A sudden move in the night,

A twinge of pain meant things still weren’t right

Aggravation so more medication

Six days away is what would be departure day

If the first one is not to be, I’ve still got a plan B and C

Tell a friend the news today she replies how things are in the USA

Airlines short staffed and chaos abounded planes grounded

Neither taken off nor landed flights cancelled

Passengers stranded, violence flaring fighting and swearing

One thing I could surmise,

Putting my back out could be a blessing in disguise

 

05.11.21 – 109) Fireworks going off outside, Milo content and warm inside

I’m sat composing and  it’s bonfire night once again

I’m thinking today I haven’t had as much pain 

Thought it best to have much more rest

Not in the chair but instead on my bed

Pain now not as drear but one thing becoming clear

It seems now the first plan is not to be

And there’s doubt about plan B and C

They are just over two and three weeks away

Each an alternative departure day

Something simple could cause me hell,

Like lifting my suitcase in and out of the taxi or off the carousel

All hopes a tour in vain putting my back out again

Something to ponder for now, and the fireworks noise is fading away

And I think it’s time to call it a day

07.11.21 – 110) Tomorrow 8th November’s  the day

They lift the travel ban on the UK flying to the USA

I thought it would be best to have my pre flight covid test

A negative result on November 9 would be fine

And then, I could fly out on November 10

But it is not to be, due to a back injury

But there’s still a Plan B and C

Will they work we’ll have to wait and see.

 

08.11.21 – 111) Yesterday saw my hopes of a tour further collapse

When my back injury had a relapse

Not to grand, pain when I tried to sit or stand

So it looks like this year’s not to be

Even though there’s still plan’s B and C

Now people from yet UK can at last fly to the USA

Wishing one of them was me but for now it will not be

So I’m wondering how things are today

Will things go like song? will things go badly wrong?

Will there be tempers lost? will it be worth the cost?

Will it drive passengers up the wall?

Will they wish they’d never bothered at all?

Will they be short of staff?

Will anarchy rule the day? will there be many a long delay?

When will come the time that I can fly away

 

09.11.21 – 112) Yesterday two flights took off as one

Heading in the direction of the setting sun

From Heathrow, made their way to New York’s JFK

Landed ok after many miles, families re-united with hugs and smiles

Media coverage seemed to tell everything seemed to go well

But it could have been their intent to make it a staged event

Make it look okay on ban lifting day

And I’m thinking of what would have been

If I’d had my covid test and it had come back clean

But for my back, tomorrow I’d have been away

On would have been my departure day

 

10.11.21 – 113) Yes today’s the day I had hoped to be away

A belated tour of Texas USA

First to New York’s JFK then second flight

Down to Austin hopefully before night

Although there’s still plan B and C, I fear

I may have to give Texas a miss this year

But one thing I can do is make up for it in 2022

 

11.11.21 – 114) I went to bed last night

Thinking if things had gone right I may have still been in flight

Hopefully a widow seat watching the ground below

Passing by as to Austin I go

Or still sat at JFK in anticipation

Of my final flight in the American nation

This morning when I rose, to face the day ahead

I thought “If I was in Austin, I’d still be asleep in bed

Then later rising to face my first full day away

First hour rise, coffee and a welcome shower

Dress then away to AWR in my hire car

Decide where to stop for breakfast on the way

Hardest decision to make, it’s all good, no mistake

Once I’m there, see which animals need my care

Job done with pride them away to enjoy, the rest of my first full day

Sightseeing and more, on my first post covid Texas tour

 

14.11.21 - 115) Tomorrow I could implement Plan B

Or wait a further week and implement Plan C

Back getting better do I want to risk it

Putting it out again would really take the biscuit

It really would be hell, flat on my back in a motel

So one thing seems to be clear, I’ll cancel this year

And what I’ll do, is hope it’s third time lucky in 2022