Dineh

Six poems from the heart that cover several topics.
Brenna, is about a young Navaho woman who happens to be an extended family member of mine. Thrugh her pain and her willlingness to share her hardships in life, I was inspired to write this poem.
I personally believe it speaks volumns for all women that dream of having a picture perfect family, and unfortunately down the line in the relationship they realize they are stuck living with a Jeckle & Hyde, and have no other option than to flee to a safe haven.

A child of the 60's and a product of my environment.
My parents divorced when I was 2, so it was my loving and nurturing Mom and I until I turned 9.
She met this wonderful young man in the army, got married and we were introduced to a whole new world, Germany.
This perfect union afforded me many opportunities to travel and meet people of different cultures, learn the German language, and old world traditions. Thank you Dad for opening doors.
One of the most memorial times in my life was visiting the American Military Cemetery in Luxembourg. Before me was a sea of white crosses. I stood there and Wept. At the age of 12 this experience had a monumental impact on my life. Our American soldiers of yesteryear buried on foreign soil, The memory of that sight still humbles me to this day.
At that very pivotal moment in time, I understood why we were overseas, to fight oppression, and to ensure the freedom and liberties of our brothers and sisters abroad.
I worked at Clyde Cosper VA nursing home and heard countless war stories about the Battle of the Bulge, Korea, and Vietnam Nam. I have the utmost respect for these men as well as the women that served at the MASH units. They proudly displayed their portraits in the hall by their doors. They looked like movie stars, and to me they were bigger than life American hero's. As a CNA I was honored to be in their presence and took great pride in my work.
My hobbies are collecting rocks, fossils, sea shells, antiques, and making jewelry. My favorite sights are the Painted Desert and Grand Canyon. Awesome. Put that on your bucket list.
My bucket list, the Redwood Forest. The love of my life, my 4 children and five wonderful grandchildren. My favorite movie, It's a Wonderful Life, the scene where their dancing in gym over the pool and the floor opens. Favorite song: How Great Thou Art. Favorite Singer: Jonie Mitchell.
Besides writing poetry, I research on my families genealogy. My Uncle Nelson Wier got me interested, I miss you so much! By the way, "How is it up there?"
With the love and support of my Dad Stephen Brandon, an aspiring writer in his own right, I decided to share a few of my poems with you.
I know this was long, and thank you for your time and interest.
Enjoy,
Carlene Carter Brandon