A Collage For Dale

Here you are, only twelve, at our kitchen table.
Such a carrot top you were! Strangers used to think
you were our red-head mother’s natural son.

And here’s that photo you took of me at college.
Though you’re not in it, how could I ever forget
it was you in front of me that snapped that shot?
For I’m laughing and so glad you came to see me!

In this one, all ten of us are in the back yard
dressed in our Sunday best - our first big reunion!
I’m nearly 30;  just look at my silly perm!
Folks still mistake me for Dori in this picture!
Look how Mom and Thea - for once - are smiling!
You’re standing behind me, in a lovely grey suit,
only 32 and almost out of law school!

Here from more recent pictures, this shows a rare time 
we  were joined, but sadly,  for Dad‘s funeral.
You‘re not in this one, Dale . . . nor in any others.
That picture in our back yard was to be the last.
My dear stepbrother, the best man I ever knew -
Taken from us so young. . .  you remain beloved.


Written 10/9/13
Used today March 24, 2021 for
A Meaningful Poem - Poetry Contest 
Sponsor: Constance La France

Copyright © | Year Posted 2013



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12
Date: 3/30/2021 9:07:00 AM
Congratulations on your win. A wonderful story/write. Pictures are the best along with memories. Have a blessed day............
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Date: 3/29/2021 10:23:00 AM
Congratulations, Andrea, This is a tremendous high win, and I'm sure you deserve a lot more. My profound respect
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Date: 3/29/2021 8:29:00 AM
Such a lovely tribute Andrea I know from our mails how special he was, hugs Jan xx
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Date: 3/27/2021 11:51:00 PM
Beautiful Andrea...I could see the picture come alive....Congrats on your top win...much love :)
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Date: 3/27/2021 4:46:00 PM
Andrea, congratulations on your win in my challenge, A Meaning Poem and that is exactly what you gave me, it truly touched my heart, so sorry for the loss of your dear stepbrother, well done _Constance
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Date: 6/1/2020 7:40:00 PM
I remember you telling me about your brother. What a sad way for him to leave you. It hurts me to think about it. You had to include a poem about him or the this list would not be complete.
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Date: 5/24/2020 12:35:00 AM
Awesome share, Andrea.
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Date: 5/23/2020 11:50:00 PM
I know your bond with Dale was deep and losing him left a big hole. Your heartfelt love for him is evident as you share the pleasant memories triggered by these photographs. Sad for the loss, happy for the memories, life in a nutshell. Engaging write, my friend. Hugs ~ John
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Date: 5/23/2020 1:11:00 AM
And the children's laughter with their parents cheers, so it goes with a wave, the many passing years. -Richard
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Date: 1/18/2018 8:20:00 PM
Very sorry for your loss
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Date: 11/13/2013 9:13:00 AM
This is so sad, you pulled us into your pictures. What a lovely heartfelt piece.
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Date: 11/13/2013 12:19:00 AM
congrats Andrea!
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Date: 11/12/2013 9:09:00 PM
Congratulations on the win, Andrea
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Date: 11/12/2013 7:59:00 PM
congrats on your win Andrea....thanks for your encouraging words ....hugs
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Date: 11/12/2013 7:32:00 PM
All the joy of a BIG family! Congrad's on your win. Light & Love
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Date: 11/12/2013 6:12:00 PM
I felt every word and was left with a lump in my throat...a definite heartfelt collage...and super winning poem
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Date: 11/12/2013 1:59:00 PM
Andrea, congratulations on the well deserved win. Belated condolences for your loss. I was just as captivated as the first time I read this. Going in my faves
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Date: 11/12/2013 11:45:00 AM
congrats on your win! hugs
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Date: 11/12/2013 11:09:00 AM
Oh so sad...I love your description of your carrot top...congrats my dear. BG
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Date: 11/5/2013 11:07:00 AM
Such a sad write on someone you miss. Nice tribute Andrea for your step brother Dale.love phyl
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Date: 10/14/2013 7:07:00 AM
Oh wow, sure glad i've read this Andrea, i don't need reminding you are a wondrous poet, but if i had, this sure would bring me back on track.....amazing from you your diversity so astute. so wonderful....
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Date: 10/12/2013 9:03:00 PM
This is a very lovely poem bringing back good mem'ries w/ a person who once became a big part of your life my dear friend Andrea. A great poem and dedication as well. Thank you so much for sharing! Have a very wonderful weekend to u & your love ones. love lots & big hugs, Leonora
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Date: 10/12/2013 6:44:00 PM
Such a heart warming collage that says so much about your relationship with your step-brother. How wonderful is this!?
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Date: 10/12/2013 4:36:00 PM
So many memories when we look at old pictures, nicely done Andrea ;} <3
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Date: 10/12/2013 9:05:00 AM
Looking at old photos is a real emotional thing. Makes you want to bring people and things back to life in another time. Good stuff. Love, daver
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Austin Avatar
Daver Austin
Date: 10/12/2013 9:06:00 AM
A sort of through the looking glass experience.
12
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