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Behind the Magnolia Curtain

Behind the magnolia curtain, childhood ne’er knew. Drawn to Sleepy Hollow - over the river, really mountains; and the thruway, to Grandma’s we go. Magnificent magnolias, bountiful with perfume, born when I was steeped in maturity. Now I know the shiny leaves that tremble in hot ‘lanta breeze. Whilst the ghosts of the Catskills clip clop; shadows that fell the canopy of treetops; the Borscht Belt entertaining with neon signs, drawing my eyes. Crépe myrtles connect the present and past, I’d not notice the smooth legs until the gypsy eyes, of a poet, were mesmerized by these sprightly trees. Gone With the Wind comes to life as I entered North Carolina life, bigger than life; Miss Daisy, was driving me crazy; the drama of a small town, I’d ne’er known, now bit my hands, slammed my fingers in the door, waged jealousy and more; brought to the surface my lack of skill and sins. I gained my bearings, muscled my spirituality, in other words prayed, bumbled, hurrayed any inroads, gained love and fascination for these characters. First thing said to me by the closest coworker: “I know how much you make!” ‘Well, howdy do, and bless your heart’ - that last bit, the burn I learned in the deep South. You see in the Catskill mountains, we lob heads off, well, at least the Headless Horseman does the dirty work. Sweet smell of magnolias, Southern belles, mean old South; still I met my best friend as I landed in Marietta - I admire her, she’s kind, and wise, perfect in my eyes.

Copyright © | Year Posted 2025




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Date: 4/2/2025 5:29:00 PM
Transplanted Yankee, just like me. I left Long Island so long ago. Been in North Carolina 37 years. I had a downstate NY thick accent once, now it's neutral, still don't have a Southern twang but my daughter does. You pen real well, Kim. This charming poem made me appreciate my NY roots and NC at the same time. Many blessings to you and your family. :)
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Kim Rodrigues
Date: 4/2/2025 5:59:00 PM
Thank you so much! I enjoyed reading about you. We are the sum of the placez we’ve been. xx
Date: 3/24/2025 6:34:00 PM
Wow! I just love how you weave language. This sends so many pictures at once.
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Kim Rodrigues
Date: 3/25/2025 3:34:00 PM
Thank you, Paige! Like talking to me where I jump from one subject to another. Hugs ~ Kim
Date: 3/24/2025 2:20:00 PM
Well melded reminice and backgrounds Kim Its good to know some of the country and Also a glimpse of you too.'
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Kim Rodrigues
Date: 3/25/2025 3:31:00 PM
Thank you, Joe! Glad you liked it!
Date: 3/24/2025 7:16:00 AM
Dear Kim, What a nice journey through time, place, and emotion. The way you create the scents of magnolias and the sounds of the Catskills into your story is breathtaking. I can feel the tension, the growth, and the love that shaped your path. That last line about your best friend, what a heartfelt tribute! So raw and radiant. Spring Blessings, My Dear Friend, Daniel
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Kim Rodrigues
Date: 3/25/2025 3:30:00 PM
We must cherish our true blue friend!
Date: 3/24/2025 5:06:00 AM
- Memories appear Kim, we don't choose them ... some smell good and others don't - A great poem :) - hugs
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Kim Rodrigues
Date: 3/25/2025 3:08:00 PM
They all are the experience :)
Date: 3/23/2025 8:33:00 PM
utterly fascinating, Kim. This one deserves a 5-star mint-julep cheer. Excelsior, Gershon
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Kim Rodrigues
Date: 3/23/2025 8:40:00 PM
LOL! Thanks, cheerleader!
Date: 3/23/2025 11:57:00 AM
There are lots of magnolia curtains here, and they made a great hiding place when I was a child. Their perfumed blooms are as sweet scented as the gloss of their leaves. I say y'all but no one in New Orleans says, "Bless her heart," lol If it's ever heard, it'd be more like a sarcasm about a Karen. I'm glad you have a Southern friend. We make good ones, Kim.
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Kim Rodrigues
Date: 3/23/2025 12:09:00 PM
Yes, you do! Hugs xx

Book: Reflection on the Important Things