Blaine County Poetry Corner

I Hold My Breath

By: Mary McKenzie

When I hear the front door open

and the mud boots tromping in

and the turning of the doorknob

and the voice of my children,

I hold my breath.

I gauge by their expression,

by the speed at which they come

and tonation of their voice,

if their mood is troublesome.

I hold my breath.

Did the pregnant sow have piglets

in the forty-four below?

Did the heifer jump the fence

for greener pastures? I don’t know…

I hold my breath.

Is the guinea acting sickly?

Did the rooster tear his comb?

Did a skunk run off with chickens,

or the swine break fence to roam?

I hold my breath.

What goat kid sprained its ankle?

Which sheep got bloated from grain?

Did the bunny have its babies

in the lightning storm with rain?

The front door of my farmhouse

is the furthest from benign.

Each movement brings a story

which will be the new headline.

So…I hold my breath.

Mornings in Chinook

By: Mary McKenzie

Sunlight through my window

gently wakes me up.

I throw on comfy clothes

and find my favorite cup.

While the coffee’s brewing,

doggy goes outside.

Kitty gets her breakfast;

I speak to God, my guide.

Morning birds are singing.

Sun begins to climb.

Fresh farm cream and honey

turns coffee sublime.

Now, pooch gets her kibble.

My eyes are awake.

Time to stir the children

and think of food to make.

Hubby has awakened.

Morning hug and kiss.

Talks about the day’s plans

and what not-to-miss.

Coffee-time is over.

Now, it’s get-up-and-go.

Many things to do.

It’s time to bloom and grow!

If you would like to submit a poem, please send it to

bcjpictures@itstriangle.com