Sheep Sink

Sheep Sink - published in 'Northwords Now' Issue 30, Autumn 2015

Catriona's Whistle

Catriona's Whistle - published in 'Seas of Possibility' WEA

Catriona’s Whistle

Ten years have passed since that summer

we dashed the White Sergeant

atop Meall Fuar-mhonaidh

a blistering day, we’d planned to walk as one

but soon became a snaking path,

your eager stride, soon left us far behind.

To a tune from Catriona’s whistle

found deep in her pocket, we clasped hands,

your head thrown back in laughter

and I knew this was a special moment

to be stored away till needed:

you ready to fly the nest, and long since flown.

I Have Spent the Money Already

I Have Spent the Money Already

Now I am sixty, I refuse to wear purple.

There is white glitter paint

in my bathroom; silver stars adorn

the full length mirror while I enjoy

the power that comes from the shower.

I liberate my kitchen from junk mail offering

funeral plans, retirement homes, mobility scooters,

subscriptions for Saga, all scored in bold black marker:

‘Not known at this address – return to sender.’

My children will be relieved to learn

they need not be concerned by any future tax.
I have spent the money already.