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lucky
Senior Member
since 2000-01-17
Posts 1601
Idaho

0 posted 2005-12-26 10:10 AM


Almost. . . . Let  it  slip Away

as night responds appearing as a well merited
friend and the evening turns to sanguine
free and quiet lies quilted waiting before
any of the morning cares come
taking carols linger reclaiming scenes
from years gone by I think you know
the places although many have closed
their eyes and forgotten but then again
others have to close their eyes to make it
real and of course there are those who can’t
get out to feel the sights or they’re just so back
woods they don’t bother stringing up the lights

the fire has taken our spirit all right and
the nights have sure been sleepless hearing
all the creaks and crackles an old house
can make and the icy wind with its low moaning
around the eaves reminding you just how cold
it is leaving yer soul with a not so easy feeling
wondering what exactly it was you heard

finally morning arrives and I thank God again
that were all still alive we sit and wait for the
antiquated phone to ring bearing a little cheer
we make a few calls but alas everyone is gone
for one reason then the girls remind me of the season

I dawn my winters best and begin removing
the siding eight feet back...... and it still
looks bad sixteen more......... and a sad
heart sweeps the messy kitchen floor
three days left and still no electricity

I drop what I’m doing and find a
tree make a wreathe from the lower boughs
the scent of pines fresh enveloping the air
camouflages the smell of smoke still there

the shortest day of the year arrives and I
pray a prayer that it won’t be ours everyone
is stationed in various rooms and then at
the given moment the switch is thrown

the rooms light up one by one
everything in sight was coming on
the house lit up like a Christmas tree
oh what a blessed sight to see

I’m just a carpenters son that worked for his dad. Dad became a general contractor in the mid ‘60’s. I later went into making cabinets for him. (Arthritis got into my fingers and the hammer would slip from my hand.) I can’t thank God enough for all he taught me. Without it.... (as Sunshine said) it could have all slipped away.

Electrical fires are possible the worst kind. As a home owner is a sick feeling when there is a fire inside your wall and the kitchen is lined with shelves and cabinets making a fire extinguisher ineffective.

The fire originated at the main breaker panel because of an old breaker that seized and didn’t work. (time, humidity and some other factors I wasn’t even aware of had seized the breaker into an on position) A real electrician will be in on Tuesday. It appears the whole system will have to be replaced.

Looks like mom didn’t nickname me “lucky” for nought. For those who prayed I want to thank you, we thank you, with all our hearts. The kids are thankful too but they’re unable to realize the scope or know the seriousness of such an occurrence. God Bless and I pray you’ve all had a wonderful Christmas.

(lucky) Dale & Rosemary Gwaltney

Speaking of ghosts, wouldn't you know here comes mine again...
~Rosemary J. Gwaltney~


© Copyright 2005 Dale W. Gwaltney - All Rights Reserved
Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354
Listening to every heart
1 posted 2005-12-26 10:51 AM



And I'll thank God that you all escaped
without harm to your persons...

But I will also keep my prayers going for you, lucky...and Rosemary? You keep holding everyone tight!



.

kayjay
Member Elite
since 2002-06-24
Posts 2015
Oregon
2 posted 2005-12-26 11:22 AM


I've plumbed and wired enough to know the apprehension of cutting in the main switch or turning on the main water supply and that twitch in your stomach when your work is almost, but not quite right.
You and your family are indeed most lucky, and the more so for your skills.  
Thanks for sharing a great story.  Ken

Through rubble and trouble and dark of night
The yawn of a dawn will hasten the light

Martie
Moderator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-09-21
Posts 28049
California
3 posted 2005-12-26 11:46 AM


Dale....You are surely blessed to be able to write this today....I am so thankful that you and the family are ok.  Thank you for letting us know...you have been in my thoughts all through the day and night.  
lucky
Senior Member
since 2000-01-17
Posts 1601
Idaho
4 posted 2005-12-26 05:18 PM


Thank you all so much

I've never really had to work like that in 10 below weather. I had to come in and change my shoes and socks twice. I think I'm still thawing out. I still have all my fingers and toes but their still telling me about it. (where's my check, Mr. Farmers Insurance Man) Thanks so much Martie for leaving the message with Marge I was just so rushed. I hope to be sitting down to some serious writing and soon.

Best friends best finds, lucky dale


nakdthoughts
Member Laureate
since 2000-10-29
Posts 19200
Between the Lines
5 posted 2005-12-26 07:11 PM


I am so glad  you have electricity for now... sounds like your dad taught you well

hugs to you all

M

Midnitesun
Deputy Moderator 1 Tour
Member Empyrean
since 2001-05-18
Posts 28647
Gaia
6 posted 2005-12-26 07:19 PM


oh, thank goodness you are all safe!
I sure hope the new year is warmer and brighter, that the temps might even rise and hold steady above the freeze mark.
I do understand the subzeros, after living 6 years in the Interior of AK, and remember all too well what happens when something horrible HAPPENS in winter.

littlewing
Member Rara Avis
since 2003-03-02
Posts 9655
New York
7 posted 2005-12-26 08:07 PM


*smiling here*

Because you and yours ARE.


sandgrain
Member Elite
since 1999-09-21
Posts 3662
Sycamore, IL, USA
8 posted 2005-12-26 08:46 PM


Thank you,Lord, for watching over these folks and bringing them through this sad incident.

   Rae

Earth Angel
Member Empyrean
since 2002-08-27
Posts 40215
Realms of Light
9 posted 2006-03-10 06:01 AM


Your strong and indomitable spirit will get you through these challenges that you face.

Prayers are on the wing for you and your family.

Hugs with love,
EA

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