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| The Back Stairs |
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where reading, I discovered the wit of Pogo.
where bottles and jars precariously lined the wall.
where milk froze into spindley columns of ice cream.
and kids could have a cookie without removing dirty shoes. |
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| The Front Stairs |
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where we enjoyed the sunshine and sweet smell of carrigana.
where we listened to the men dispute in the sun porch.
yet safe from their cigars and whiskey,
and most prickly kisses. |
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| The Basement |
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where the coal shute disappeared in powdery blackness.
where we stomped cabbage and salt into sourkraut.
where the Bow River visited in the spring.
and later where we boarded in cozy privacy. |
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| The Kitchen |
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where the serious visiting was done.
where Peter the Canary sang as we drank many cups of coffee.
where Grandma invented Tomato/Pea Soup.
and the first stolen bites of supper whetted the appetite. |
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| The Table |
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where I remember Big Grandpa Mike smiling over his family.
where aunts and uncles sat in high back chairs.
where Grandpa Elias stood while carving turkeys and roasts.
and there was always more good food than could be eaten. |
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| The Living Room |
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where the gas fireplace centered the conversations.
where the first TV and its funny programs were seen.
where the most comfortable sofa in the world was.
and Grandma passed on her formal, considered opinions. |
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| The Record Player with Shortwave Radio |
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where we heard the warm music of Tennessee Ernie Ford.
where the voices of the world came whistling.
where I spent many Sundays learning the Morse Code.
and radio seemed such a special magic. |
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| The Garden |
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where bright flowers were visited by bees and dragonflys.
where we savoured carrots wiped clean on the grass.
where Grandma would help us find the best fishing worms.
and the rain barrel kept the soft water for washing hair. |
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| The Garage. |
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where entry required the most tricky maneuvers.
where the stink of hot oil and back seat dust pervaded.
where lived the Blue Dodge with the forgiving Fluid Drive.
and later the Orange Plymouth - all fins, chrome and comfort. |
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| These were some things at Grandma's Place |
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where I received her nurturing as a child.
where I learned her values as a youth.
where I was given her support as a man.
and the memories will be clear forever. |
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