Childhood Messages Poem by RoseAnn V. Shawiak

Swinging in a swing of childhood on Tullo Road,
thinking of my Dad and Mom in a childhood filled
with poverty, happiness and nature.
All-important messages in childhood growing up.
Willow trees swaying, hiding us beneath their
precious leaves and branches.
Apple, mulberry, cherry trees scattered around
our front yard for us to eat when we got hungry.
A little stream cutting across our front yard
where we used to play and try half-heartedly to
catch frogs.
Times of joy that will always stay within my mind,
reminding me of whence I came, and who I have
become today.
All poetry can be traced back to my childhood in
New Jersey.
Bound Brook, Somerville, Wildwood every summer,
Atlantic City, Bridgewater, all holding special
places in my heart forever.