Robert L. Hinshaw Poet Rhyme

Time On My Hands

Some fellers like to sit around and sip bourbon on the rocks.
I prefer to sit around admiring my collection of old clocks.
At last count I reckon they number about seventy-five or so.
Much to the chagrin of my spouse, the number continues to grow!

I just can't pass up a bargain at the local antique store.
I suppose I'm like that old horse heading for the barn door.
When I spot a lonely beauty displayed there by its self,
I feel sorry for it and take it home to display on a shelf!

My den looks like a museum with clocks of every pedigree.
There are wall, mantel and cuckoo clocks staring back at me!
Even a grandfather clock stands against the far wall,
Made of solid oak and rising nearly seven feet tall!

Nigh on forty years ago my interest in antique clocks began.
Some are from from Germany, England and a few from Japan.
Do they all chime and clang at once you may rightly ask?
No - to keep them all wound would be an onerous task!

The chimes, bongs and cuckoos the old clocks emit,
Would surely drive one insane, I would readily admit!
'Twould be lonely around here, though, sans those friendly faces,
And their graceful, sweeping hands and ornate wooden cases!

Entry for Julie Leigh Rodeheaver's "Hobbies" Contest
(21 February 2019)

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CayCay Godwin February 22, 2019 at 8:58 PM I enjoyed the personal revelations in your flowing and well rhymed poem. I knew a couple who had several walls filled with clocks; I don't know that any chimed or otherwise announced the hour, but they were all running on time. Day Light Savings kept them busy twice a year. I, too, can't pass an antique store. A enjoyable and fun way to learn more about you. All the best ... CayCay Robert L. Hinshaw February 23, 2019 at 10:54 AM Thank you CayCay. I cherish your kind comments, support and encouragement. I have only about 5 of my fav clocks operating and that's enough! Best to you - Bob

Lindsay Laurie February 22, 2019 at 8:19 PM G'day Bob … question: showing people your clock collection, are you ever asked what the time is? I recall meeting a bloke who collected clocks from railway stations that closed. It was very interesting - Lindsay

Nette Onclaud February 22, 2019 at 2:07 PM sounds like you have been influenced by the urgency of time as a military man, bob...remarkable write! visit the philippines; love your anecdotes!..huggs Robert L. Hinshaw February 22, 2019 at 3:57 PM Thank you, nette. Yes my policy has always been - don't be on time - be there ahead of time! So with the many clocks I've been able to hold to that policy - ha! Best to you - Bob

Michael Craig February 21, 2019 at 5:24 PM You must have some collection of clock 75 I think you said. Look at it this way you never have an excuse to be late. Great poem!

Jan Allison February 21, 2019 at 4:46 PM Absolutely charming poem Bob I could picture this so vividly:-) hugs Jan xx

Ilene Bauer February 21, 2019 at 3:47 PM what a very cool hobby, bob! you've described this quite wonderfully in your poem, too. i have a friend who collects clocks as well and i always enjoy visiting her home and checking out her collection...