Native Son: March 2015
Majestic live oaks drip with icicles. Photos courtesy of Steven Chamblee.
by Steven Chamblee
The Grip of Winter
Here I sit in the midnight blue,
A frozen crust covers the garden outside
Under which lies the promise of spring.
Blue-eyed grass leaves slice through the ice
Like tiny daggers defying winter’s grip.
Opening a window slit to peek outside…
Oh, screw that jazz … let’s go with something fun!
Outside, the dogs get all frisky in the cold. Inside, the laser cat lords over his prey.
Ice-covered grasses at Chamblee Meadows.
Murphy Comes to Chamblee Meadows
Murphy visits everyone
Every now and then.
That’s just the nature of this life,
Not a curse, vex, or sin.
So when Murphy came a calling Sunday,
I saw no need to panic.
I figured it was just my turn to host
This scoundrel most mischievous, sometimes even manic.
A fender bender, going slowly,
Not much damage done,
But this just seemed to whet the thirst
Of Murphy’s love for fun.
My home heater went out of whack,
Just in time for the big freeze.
“Electric heaters at the big box store,” I said,
“I’ll get me some of these.”
Heaters stowed away in the back
Of my good ol’ pickup truck,
Turned the key and got only a click.
Well, now, just my luck.
I stood out there in the howling wind,
Tightening battery cables.
Got ‘em all hooked up mighty fine,
Kinda proud of myself … me all skilled and able.
Another click, another try, another failed repair.
“Gosh darn it! Golly gee whiz! Mother Mary’s pie!”
My fingers were plumb frozen numb,
But my mouth sure let it fly.
Finally got ‘er started up,
Much to my surprise.
Said a grand apology right out loud,
And aimed it toward the skies.
Pulled up at home and parked the truck,
Figured I was outta the woods.
Didn’t know Murphy rode home with me,
And it was just now gettin’ good.
Heard a deep “crack!” and looked right up,
Just in time to see
My house become a crosshair target
For my big ol’ red oak tree.
Looked like something from a movie,
Super slow motion, in 3D…
The special effects are amazing
When your house goes under a tree.
Insurance paid, so I’m okay.
Suppose this will all be funny one day,
But won’t close ‘em tight or sleep just right
Till Murphy’s on his way.
The once grand, 40-foot Shumard oak comes to rest on Steven’s roof.
The unflappable gargoyle remains calm and cool amidst the chaos.
Come out and breathe in the winter beauty of Chandor Gardens! Go to www.chandorgardens.com for details. Just take I-20 west to exit 409, hang a right, go 2.1 miles and hang a left on Lee Avenue. Head straight 12 blocks and you’re driving in the gates. Call 817-361-1700 for more information.
I can always use another road trip! Let me know if you’d like me to come out and speak to your group sometime. I’m low-maintenance, flexible, and you know I like to go just about anywhere. No city too big; no town too small. Just send me an e-mail at stevenchamblee@yahoo.com and we’ll work something out.