Fulfilling a passion for poetry
By Meghan Streit
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE
Elaine Brinkman has written poetry for many years, and even includes short poems in birthday cards to her nieces and nephews.
For Valentine’s Day this year, Brinkman shared her love of rhyming verse with her fellow neighbors at Monarch Landing.
Poetic tribute
She helped organize a Valentine’s Day party that showcased ten Monarch Landing poets. Instead of writing typical poems paying tribute to lovers, the group got creative by expressing their affection for their newest love—Monarch Landing.
Brinkman says she thought that poetry about things that all residents could relate to would mean more to everyone.
“Every word of it is true,” Brinkman says. “After just a matter of months together, we feel like we have known each other for a really long time,” she says of her new friends at Monarch Landing.
“Whether it’s the staff, the dining, the activities, or the people, life here is just wonderful,” Brinkman says.
Life at Monarch Landing
We heard all the tips about making this move. “Get rid of the old stuff; your life will improve.” Remember those words, “It’s important to weed?” Well, those are instructions that I did not heed.
I’m drowning in boxes; my memories of life. To toss these dear contents will cut like a knife. So what do I do to bring me some cheer? I hang out with my neighbors. You all are so dear!
I like to dine at a fun-filled table. To laugh so much some might think we’re unstable. We count beans in each soup; check the size of the fish. If all portions don’t match. Jimmy brings a new dish!
There is so much to do here that brings me delight. Sing-alongs, Scrabble and Movie Night. No time to feel lonely. We socialize! I go down for free coffee and talk with the guys.
Our Travel Club’s rolling; we’ll cover new ground. This search for adventure will always abound. Maybe you think it’s exaggeration, But I think our life is a celebration!