By Katherine M. (k-11)
When we heard about your traumatic accident,
we wanted to start something that would show you that we love you and admire you. We admire your skills, but also your generosity and bravery. We love you just the way you are, and because you are.
We both have special private thoughts and memories that we share with you alone, but our response to your trauma went beyond privacy. We wanted to share with as many of your FS friends as we could, and give everyone a chance to show you how much they care.
We found ourselves on the same wavelength, immediately. A multi-author book should give everyone the chance to express their own feelings, and you some much-needed entertainment as and when you could cope with it. And so, the idea of this bouquet made up of different blooms came into being, easily and naturally.
The response has been more than we could have hoped for, but we know your recovery is still far from complete, so the book will remain open for now in the hope that your friends will continue to add items for your entertainment until you're totally well.
Let the quills continue to write, and the muses run ever more creatively.
Lots of love
Kate - Katherine M. Kean
Tim - Theodore McDowell
20th September 2021
| Author Notes |
KARENINA'S MESSAGE TO ALL CONTRIBUTORS:
I have been emotionally buoyed, truly touched, by the generosity of good wishes and kindness in each and every talented submission to this book you and Theo created! I could write forever and not come close to thanking the two of you---and everyone on site who has bedazzled me with hope and the determination to forge ahead and carry on and live to fight and write another day! I only wish I could have unlimited sixes for everyone, just for this brilliant and undeserved but oh so appreciated bouquet! With love and deep appreciation-- Karenina 20th September 2021 |
By Katherine M. (k-11)
| Author Notes |
This is my first attempt at a Modern Sonnet without a tutor. I miss you Boss.
The short lines, hyphens and slant rhyme are intended to be suggestive of Emily Dickinson's writing. I'm rooting for you and your speedy recovery, my dear. �?�§�?�§�?�§�?�§�?�§�?�§�?�§�?�§�?�§�?�§ Please, for readers who would like to add a chapter to this book for Karenina, read these instructions then copy and paste to your author notes. If you need help, please do not hesitate to contact Katherine M. Kean. Steps to Post a Chapter: click on the ADD CHAPTER icon, located above the review box. Post your poem or story as usual but it will be part of the book. A copy will go to your portfolio and you keep your reviews. |
By Katherine M. (k-11)
| Author Notes |
I hope you recover quickly from your surgery, dear Karenina!! :)
Trochee and dactyl are two forms of poetic meter. Artwork by Bev Doolittle |
By Katherine M. (k-11)
| Author Notes |
Karenina had surgery last week Thursday and is recovering. Let's pray for her full recovery and the patience to let others "do" for her. It's hard for those who are used to caring for others to stay still and receive care.
Thank you, Kate, for creating this book! |
By Katherine M. (k-11)
Last month, at my urging, Karenina posted, word for word, her brilliantly wry and witty off-the-cuff review of one of my stories.
She relates, with trademark touches of dark humor, the dreadful saga of a botched dilation of her pupils, due to a five-fold administration of eye drops by a first-timer ophthalmologist assistant.
Karenina's eyes were messed up for five days, during the course of which she suffered an agonizing headache.
Notwithstanding her suffering, Karenina intervened in behalf of the rookie, who'd been dismissed forthwith for her blunder. She threatened to sue the practice ... unless the woman was reinstated. (She was!)
Less than a month prior, Karenina's husband, Ed, nearly died of sepsis, consequent to a botched colonoscopy that resulted in perforation of his colon. Though Ed survived his ordeal, his recovery process is far from complete.
Which is especially unfortunate given Karenina's recovery process has just begun.
Two weeks ago, Karenina was nearly killed when an uninsured drunk driver crashed into her car; she sustained severe injuries to her face and jaw, requiring 51 stitches.
Karenina suffered a concussion to boot.
As the coup de grâce, several vertebrae were cracked, for which Karenina just underwent surgical implant of metal screws (?)
The surgery was even more involved than anticipated; she messaged me two days thereafter, by proxy of her daughter's hands. Her own pair are out of commission, from which I infer (tentatively) that the vertebrae intervention impacted the nerves.
Astoundingly, Karenina has, with the logistical assistance of her daughter, maintained the impressive volume and stellar quality of reviews.
Karenina is a self-made miracle; notwithstanding which she'll surely welcome the boost of our collective support, as enhanced with prayers from those of faith.
Whoever among you volunteers to write the next chapter of The Book of K (so to speak), get to work!
| Author Notes |
Helza Blaze by MoonWillow on FanArtReview.com THANK YOU!
|
By Katherine M. (k-11)
| Author Notes |
* Free Verse for Karenina
* Beautiful painting by Valerie Ramos. Detail from - Let the Waters Flow and Dry Ground Appear.- Pastel on sanded paper. |
By Katherine M. (k-11)
Searching for the right words
Blurred in an avalanche of snow
A 1960s television screen of Twilight Zone
What, where, when, why, and how
Terrible things happen without reason
Fickle fate off course and out of control
Wishing and hoping the worst is over
That soon, you'll be happy and healthy again
Walking in sunshine by the river walk
Now, be a good patient, and get better soon
Laughter the best medicine, most will say
But listen to me, and take the morphine!
| Author Notes | I don't do poetry, so please be nice. I just wanted to take a minute to wish Karenina well! |
By Katherine M. (k-11)
| Author Notes |
-The image is from Bing.
-Two of Emily Dickinson's poems are referred to in mine: "Hope is the thing with feathers" and "I dwell in Possibility." -If you want to add a chapter, make sure you check if it is listed as poetry or fiction before you release it. |
By Katherine M. (k-11)
Tall pines stretched upward like scorched arrows. Dark tree trunks cast ominous shadows, like stealth ninjas, moving beneath the overhanging limbs, blocking my path. The wind howled like a sad symphony. Grief and sorrow cloaked the dimming moon and washed away the stars. The inspiration from my pen ran dry.
Returning to FanStory, in search of a new beginning, was lackluster at the most. My inner GPS was off track. My muse had packed up and headed for parts unknown. If this wasn't where I was supposed to be, then what?
During my usual talk with the Lord, I dumped all my sorrow at his feet, asking him what I should do. Begin Again had lost the ability to fight. I wanted to give up on myself and my love of writing.
That day, I received a blessing beyond anything I could have imagined. Not with gold, diamonds, or even creativity galore. Instead, I opened a review, and this adorable face with an impish grin was waiting for me. I didn't know it then, but it wouldn't take long; I learned the Lord had placed a friend by my side; one who gave me the armor to fight the war and win. A caring, unselfish, sweet, adorable friend.
I believe God sends us special friends to share our lives; friends that we can share our doubts and fears. Friends we can talk to without being judged and laugh with until it hurts too much. Those special people who give of themselves freely and don't expect anything in return. Someone who faces their own challenges, but still has time to reach out to comfort and encourage you.
God blessed me, and so many others, with a priceless gift. Karenina, sweet Karenina, brightens my mornings with her humor, kindness, and so much more. She's one of God's special angels.
Her road to recovery won't be an easy one, but I pray that the love of so many that adore her, will help brighten her day. I hope that her days are filled with joy and pleasant memories of the little things we shared. I hope the poems and thoughts everyone has sent her will help as she faces each day. I pray the Lord sends a multitude of angels to watch over her and give her strength and courage.
Tonight, the moon shines bright, and thousands of stars twinkle in the sky. We are blessed to have angels amongst us, and I hope my favorite returns real soon. I am sure God knows how special she is to us... to me... and I'm hoping she knows too.
Here's a basket of love, smiles, and hugs to brighten your day and bring you back to us very soon.
By Katherine M. (k-11)
When trouble saps our inner strength, and taunts at every turn,
we know the test is evident, for peace we always yearn;
the journey means we learn to fight, each step helps us to know
that to survive we see the light, agree to undergo . . .
the medicine, the surgery, the hospital is home,
no matter who supports us here, we always feel alone.
The battle to get well can seem like fighting all the odds,
with no alternative, we strive to war with vicious dogs.
But when we win we feel the heavy burden has been lifted
as body, mind and soul survive, our faith is truly gifted;
another day we gain our strength with progress that we make,
the future's bright, and smiles ignite the path to our escape.
When trouble comes we face adversity without a cry--
with inner hope and energy, we look it in the eye.
| Author Notes | Get well soon Karenina. |
By Katherine M. (k-11)
loving hands
count beads on her rosary —
prayer ascension
| Author Notes |
Ascension: the bodily ascending of Christ from earth to heaven.
This poem is dedicated to Karenina who is recuperating from surgery, Katherine M. Kean created this book in her honor. If you would like to add a chapter to this book for Karenina, read these instructions then copy and paste to your author notes. If you need help, please do not hesitate to contact Katherine M. Kean. Steps to Post a Chapter: click on the ADD CHAPTER icon, located above the review box. Post your poem or story as usual but it will be part of the book. A copy will go to your portfolio and you keep your reviews. SENRYU is a Japanese poetic form similar to haiku but focus on human nature and it doesn't require a season word (kigo). It's written in 17 syllables OR LESS. It can be humorous or serious. It goes back to late 18th century Japan. *** source: wikipedia *** collection of senryu Thank you very much for reading my poem. Gypsy |
By Katherine M. (k-11)
| Author Notes |
Author's Notes:
*vacation - she's actually having anything BUT. Please keep our buddy in your thoughts and prayers. |
By Katherine M. (k-11)
greens, blues, so many hues
become the fairy, help for the weary
they guide us toward health
life's most important wealth
earth angels with petals as wings
listen to them, rejoice and sing
| Author Notes | Best wishes for Karenina. |
By Katherine M. (k-11)
Unknown to me,
but known to all
a kindred spirit had a fall.
What can I write or what can I say
when love comes from so many hearts?
Those tender hearts are your fans bringing cheer
for we care for you and hold you dear.
Let yourself feel those loving hands.
They seek to have you up and around
to smell the flowers that spring in splendor.
You must remember to smile,
for angels see the light within
and bless your
day.
| Author Notes | Get well, Karenina. :) |
By Katherine M. (k-11)
| Author Notes |
For karenina (Karen), my friend and mentor. I've known Karen for fifteen years, and she has always been a source of great inspiration for me. Her strength, wisdom and optimism are a guiding light. I believe in the power of a collective prayer and I am sure, with our help and prayers Karen will get through this. Just take it one day at a time, dear friend, and you'll see the sun come out again - it always does.
The Wrapped Refrain, created by Jan Turner, consists of 2 or more stanzas of 6 lines each; Meter: 8,8,8,8,12,12 and Rhyme Scheme: a,a,b,b,c,c. Refrain rule: In each stanza the first 4 syllables (or 4 single-syllable words) in the first line must be the last 4 syllables (or 4 single-syllable words) at the end of the last line. This is what wraps each stanza with a repeated refrain ...thus, the Wrapped Refrain. |
By Katherine M. (k-11)
I'm Feisty! How about you?
Are you - Feisty - too?
Then there's a pair of us.
Don’t tell! they’d natter - you know.
How dreary - to be – Docile!
How safe - and dull -
To never dare the Alps
Or Chasms - below.
| Author Notes |
For Karenina - Best wishes for a fast, smooth recovery.
Photograph: Emily Dickinson's Homestead. Poem: a little fun with Emily, she of the wild nights. Natter: a trivial or gossipy conversation |
By Katherine M. (k-11)
Across the miles -
My dear friend – is healing
Across the miles -
I would love to visit – if I could, I would –
Friends heal with laughter!
But – if I left my Gardens –
The blue jays would certainly scold –
Oh dear! If they knew my friend, Karenina,
They’d fly to her, too – I know they would!
| Author Notes |
I based my "get well poem" for Karenina on "Over the Fence" by Emily Dickinson: Over the fence - Strawberries - grow - Over the fence - I could climb - if I tried, I know - Berries are nice! But - if I stained my Apron - God would certainly scold! Oh, dear, - guess if He were a Boy - He'd - climb - if He could! ~~~<<<~~~ Heal well and quickly, Karenina! Your friend, diane |
By Katherine M. (k-11)
| Author Notes |
Karenina had surgery on both her hands. It was more than the doctors had anticipated
it would be. Her daughter (Jess) took a leave of absents to come and help her. God Bless her heart. She is now doing intense rehab while the swelling in going down. Please keep her in your prayers. |
By Katherine M. (k-11)
I've been thinking of Karenina,
as I know many of us have.
Her wonderful sense of humour is something I miss the most.
May her hands heal well and in a short time,
so we can enjoy her lovely writing once more.
I didn't know what had happened
until a few days ago,
my thoughts are now with her and her family.
Karenina, I hope we see you soon.
| Author Notes |
Thanks to avmurray for the use of the artwork.
I thought I could add prose to this book, but after I wrote my piece and saved it, I realised it had to be poetry. Well, I have adapted it. Let's call it free verse, but in reality, it is prose. I just wanted to let Karenina know that I'm thinking of her. |
By Katherine M. (k-11)
You are so brave, but I'm a knave,
not knowing what to say.
How could I know? I've lost the flow,
my colour is dull grey.
You are a doll, I'll take a poll,
you look like you're a queen.
Now this I've seen, that you will glean,
and drink from Heaven's stream.
Get well real soon, and this I'll croon,
you're needed on this site.
So we'll all sing, and we will bring
a song to heal your plight.
Because we care, we'll say a prayer
and trust that God will do,
for you much more, from Heaven's store
and we will join on cue.
R.Owen 30/07/2021
| Author Notes |
This is for Karenina, a dear friend and an angel-girl. She was involved in an accident and is recovering, her dear daughter Jess is answering all of Karen correspondence, both personal an fantory stuff. Wishing her a swift recovery in Jesus name.
Thanks for reading. R.Owen Artwork by google |
By Katherine M. (k-11)
| Author Notes |
Picture found on Bing images.
|
By Katherine M. (k-11)
| Author Notes | Artwork: Bing Images |
By Katherine M. (k-11)
| Author Notes | Thanks to suzannethompson2 for painting Abstract bouquet |
By Katherine M. (k-11)
In a magical kingdom far, far away but incredibly close through digital doors, lives a beautiful, strong, and very intelligent princess named Karenina. Whatever she puts her mind to, she achieves victoriously. She could have become anything she wanted to, but she chose to become a dragon-slayer.
Her arsenal included a shield that is stronger than titanium, and she named it Faith. It magically resizes and reshapes itself depending on needs of the battle. Her single weapon is a diamond sword forged by angelic muses from a land called Library. She named the sword Poetry. The handle molds and re-forms uniquely to her hand and sings with her voice when she swings it in combat.
Let me tell you, Dear Reader, of some of her battles…
Once an apprentice, too green and too nervous at work, misheard and mistakenly put many more drops into our fair Karenina’s eyes. The pain and misery would have made anyone cry. The Dragon of Unmercy was swift to remove the newbie apprentice. But lo! To the surprise of all, Karenina, jumped into battle and spoke hope to the young gal. Her sword demolished the dragon with words such as these:
| Author Notes |
Thanks to Kate for creating this book for us to share our love and prayers for Karenina!
Poetry excerpts are all written by Karenina: *From Kareninaâ??s poem "Migration" https://www.fanstory.com/displaystory.jsp?hd=1&id=1019623 **From Kareninaâ??s poem "Perusing Pottery" https://www.fanstory.com/displaystory.jsp?hd=1&id=1023350 ***From Kareninaâ??s poem "Colors of Momma" https://www.fanstory.com/displaystory.jsp?hd=1&id=1022655 |
By Katherine M. (k-11)
Karenina can't use her hand
Her pencil's attached by a band
Encircling her head
She lies in her bed
Painstakingly trying to land
The pencil point letter by letter
Reviewing a piece takes forever
Her daughter's gone home
She's working alone
Don't bug her until she's all better
By Katherine M. (k-11)
| Author Notes | The image is from greetingcardpoet.com. |
By Katherine M. (k-11)
Harshness; heart bursting, legs cramping, as I climb the slippery steep slope. However, this isn't new. It's my monthly struggle to the top you see, to enjoy the view of the large lake below, dotted with tiny sailboats. This deflects the pain, you understand. To face the agony, you should think of giving birth, and remember the joy that followed the effort.
Imagine! Suddenly, I hit a dip. Since what goes up must come down. I slip. Not right back to the beginning, but the peak is out of reach today, along with the marvellous view. Roll on next month.
By Katherine M. (k-11)
| Author Note: | You can still add to the book even if you already have. |
| Author Notes |
-The first two verses of e.e. cumming's poem:
anyone lived in a pretty how town (with up so floating many bells down)** spring summer autumn winter he sang his didn't he danced his did. Women and men (both little and small) cared for anyone not at all they sowed their isn't they reaped their same sun moon stars rain **My poem follows the wording exactly up to, and including, "down." The remaining four lines made more sense in continuing the story with the words I chose instead of four seasons in a row! -'Howtown is a hamlet in Cumbria, England, situated at a small harbor. The name Howtown means 'farmstead on the hill'. Howtown was founded by the How, or Howe, family." Wikipedia photo credit David Pickersgill - Hairpins to Howtown -CC BY-SA 2.0 Wikipedia -Karenina shared her Golden Shovel poem, "Desultory Drifting." - The words are at the beginning because they didn't work out at the end. That's why it is a Silver Shovel! The background section is for information apart from the poem that follows. -Meter was difficult to maintain because of the words of the original poet. -I used 8 syllable lines with a rhyme scheme of aba, abc, bcb for the first two verses and dddd for the final verse. -e.e. cummings had a tendency to use lower case letters. That is the reason for them here. This is one of my favorite poems. -The most important thing about this poem is to enjoy it, hoping it brings a smile or two from Karenina. -cha ching is a slang term for money. -The origin of the Golden Shovel form is described well on Wikipedia. -You can Google golden shovel poem to get specific definitions and examples. |
By Katherine M. (k-11)
| Author Notes |
Notes:
We are thankful for Karenina who keeps cheering us on in our writing even though she still is awaiting surgery to repair her hands. (11/11) Please keep praying for her! |
By Katherine M. (k-11)
After too-damn-many months in the miserable interim; only ten days to go.
11/11--Veteran's Day--Helen's Birthday!--mark your calendar.
Meanwhile, use these ten days to prepare yourself:
Karenina is facing a complex three-part operation.
Its purpose is the mitigation of damages that ensued from the original surgery to address Karenina's neck fracture. That procedure resulted in nerve damage, to which the crippling of her hands was consequential.
Karenina will be undergoing extensive rehabilitation to work her hands.
Recall her valiant efforts to keep up with us after the first go-round.
Karenina reviewed by proxy of her daughter's hands.
Jess's hands have lately been tied; she has a young family to tend.
Karenina has always been a giver; time for us to give back. Post a chapter to this book; poetry, prose, and prayer are all welcome.
| Author Notes |
When you wish upon the stars by Angelheart on FanArtReview.com THANK YOU! RIP
|
By Katherine M. (k-11)
| Author Notes |
Learned from Elizabeth Emerald that it's Karenina's birthday:
https://www.fanstory.com/displaystory.jsp?hd=1&id=1043176 Janice Canerdy taught me this form. A diminished hexaverse has five five-syllable lines; four four-syllable lines; three . . . ending with one word. Rhyming optional. Any topic. |
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