27/2/24 - Who will call me dad?

Tuesday 27th February 

Surrounded by destruction

Every where we look 

Living in daily fear

Last night the building shook

Death on every corner

Families displaced 

All the beauty around us

Has now been brutally replaced 

Now I sit here

Head in hands 

Both sides making

Their demands

Yet in the middle

Here we sit

It takes all our strength 

Not to quit

As I sit I ask myself

Who will call me dad?

This war has taken my future

And it makes me really sad 

I dreamt of a future

With my wife by my side 

Now we just spend our days 

Sobbing as we hide 

Pembrokeshire Poet 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

26/02/2024 - Where’s The Moon

Monday 26th February 

I reached way up into the sky

The moon was up so very high

I stood upon my tippy toes 

I felt I could touch it with my nose

I grabbed that ball and pulled it down

And put it on my head just like a crown 

I never want to put it back so now I have a special brag

When you can’t see the moon, it’s coz I keep it in my bag! 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

25/02/2024 - Look at the stars…..

Sunday 25th February 2024

The clouds draw in

Dark and black

Gathered in 

Without a crack

But behind that dark curtain

Shines a light 

Lights that shine

Every night

We can’t always see 

The diamonds in the sky

But know that they are there 

Glittering way up high

A galaxy of planets and stars

Housing mysteries from afar 

Like faith we just know

Behind the clouds are shining stars 

Pembrokeshire Poet (Facebook)

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

24/02/2024 - Steak stealing pooch

Saturday 24th February 2024

Benji excelled himself on this very night

He stole a steak and decided to take flight

He ran underneath the table 

Steak hanging from his mouth

Then realised that he’d have to spit it out

Not because he stole it, oh no he didn’t care

Because the steak wasn’t cooked so wasn’t even rare!  

Find me on Facebook - Pembrokeshire Poet

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

23/02/2024 - The invisible thread

Friday 23 February 2024

My life is hanging by a thread

An invisible thread

I can’t see it

I can’t touch it

I can’t feel it

But it’s there

I have no idea how long the thread is

The only thing I know is that one day ….

The thread will be break

As it breaks for all of us 

So never waste a moment 

Treasure every day 

Be grateful for that thread

It holds a lifetime of memories 

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Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

22-02-2024 - It’s raining again 🙈

Thursday 22nd February 2024

It’s raining and pouring again 

I wish it would stay on the plain!

The roads are flooded and fields awash 

The sound of water going swish and swash

I’m fed up of these wet, dull days

I can’t wait to feel the suns warm rays! 

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Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

21-02-2024 - Breathtaking

Wednesday 21st February 

Forgotten memories resurfaced this week

The truth being unveiled upon our screens 

The “truth” that was spun and the risks taken 

The real threat sadly very much mistaken 

Breathtaking laying the drama out bare

Health workers doing their best to care

Trying to treat and heal in impossible circumstances 

Changing regulations leading them merry dances 

How did they do this relentless task day after day?

Yet the government cannot agree to increase their pay?

Find me on Facebook- Pembrokeshire Poet

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

20/02/2024 - Carefree

 Tuesday 20th February 

Your mind is open and free

A life full of joy and glee

You only live in the moment, right there 

A guilt free existence, living without a care

The life of a child just how it should be 

Carefree, joyful, happy and free 

Find me on Facebook- Pembrokeshire Poet

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

19/02/2024 - Dancing Catkins

Monday 19th February 2024

I saw a cluster of beautiful kittens tails

Hanging from a tree

They were billowing like ships sails

Gently swaying in the breeze

The first early signs of spring

Those fuzzy catkins on display

A sign that new life is on its way 

As those catkins dance and sway

Find me on Facebook- Pembrokeshire Poet 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

18/02/2024 - Sunday Vibes

 Sunday 18 February 

With all the troubles in the world 

Of course it’s right we’re all concerned 

But take a moment on this Sunday 

Reflect, be grateful come what may

It’s easy to let it all spin around 

Feeling fearful, scared and down

Spend a moment letting it all go

Try and just let positive energy flow! 

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Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

17/02/2024 - Happy Birthday uncle Gra!

Saturday 17th February 

Another trip around the sun 

75 years since your life adventure had begun

A day to celebrate in style

Really go the extra mile

The wine and beer will be flowing 

Not too much or your cheeks will be glowing! 

So we are raising a glass to you, Uncle Graham 

If someone says it’s your round just play dumb 😉

Joanne C Hicks 

Find me on Facebook - Pembrokeshire Poet 

16-02-2024 - Hello Sunshine!

Friday 16th February 

The sun peeped out from behind the clouds

I felt it’s beams stroking my face

The warmth that fell upon my body

Was comforting like a reassuring blanket

I knew this moment would not last

So I stopped, sat down 

and let the world pass me by

Find me on Facebook - Pembrokeshire Poet

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

15/02/2024 - Checking In ……

 Thursday 15th February 

Hello are you checking in?

Errr I don’t know - I don’t quite understand what’s going on

Don’t worry it’s going to be fine - what do you remember? 

Well - I was sat on my sofa, thinking about things I’ve been putting off doing but really want to do. 

Like what?

I don’t know, spend more time with family, cook more, love more, appreciate nature more. Maybe travel a bit more, make new friends, connect with old friends, get fit - stupid stuff really.

And now……

Now I don’t know where I am or what’s happened? I don’t remember - I was sat watching TV and then darkness and I wake up here

In heaven 

Oh - what? Oh no - that can’t be right, I’m too young. I always thought I had loads of time to live my life …..

Sadly we never know how long we’ve got - but you know it’s all going to be fine - look over there, all these people and pets have been patiently waiting for you. It’s all going to be ok. 

How long is a piece of string - who knows - how long do we have here - nobody knows. Live in the moment and appreciate the small things more.  Life can be tough but you’d be surprised at how much joy the simple things can bring. 

Find me on Facebook- Pembrokeshire Poet

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

14/02/2024 - Goodbye Hurts

Wednesday 14th February 

When you wake up the next day 

And find your loved one has slipped away

The pain you feel can be too great to bear

When their voice is the only one you want to hear

Your heart feels like it’s in an all embracing vice 

Your whole body feels like it’s encased in ice

Your untimely passing so hard to believe 

All we are left with is reflecting on what you achieved

It feels like our lives will never be the same again 

All we can cling to is that we will meet again - but when?

Salt laden tears flow freely down my face 

All I long for is to just feel your warm embrace 

Find me on Facebook- Pembrokeshire Poet

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

 

Happy pancake day! 😂

 I made a bit of batter

And put it in the pan

The mixture seeped to the side

That’s where the problem began 

I picked up the pan and flipped my pancake up 

And on the ceiling it’s still stuck 😂

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

13/02/2024 - Aww Wrighty - we will miss you ❤️

Tuesday 13th February 

Decade after decade you were a familiar voice

You were most definitely our DJ of choice

You’d keep us company each and every day 

Playing beautiful love songs on Sundays 

You made millions laugh, cry and smile

Even on the days when we had to drive miles

You were with us on our long weary journeys 

Your laughter helping to melt away our worries

Your wit and warmth radiated through the radio 

Despite you being miles away in your studio

You were truly loved and will be greatly missed 

Oh fate why have you delivered such a cruel heartbreaking twist

Find me on Facebook - Pembrokeshire Poet 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

 

12/02/2024 - Live Your Life!

Monday 12th February 

When I’m dead and gone

And I’ve sung my final song

Don’t put your life on hold for me 

Maybe shed a tear but be glad I’m free

You are still here on this earth 

So don’t underestimate your worth

Don’t wallow, cry and stay at home

There is a whole world for you to roam 

So live your life - don’t mourn for me

I am gone but we’ll meet again, you’ll see

So live each day that you’ve been blessed

As for me, I will be in a tranquil place at rest 

Find me on Facebook - Pembrokeshire Poet

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

11-02-2024 - Petals In The Sand

Sunday 11-02-2024 

The sea danced over the soft white sands

It gently rolled over the grains, like massaging hands

The sands gently shifted and moved with each flow 

As the wave draws back the movement begins to slow

In out in out 

Repeated day by day

And as the waves slowly roll back the sand settles 

All that’s left of this daily dance are shapes formed like petals

Find me on Facebook - Pembrokeshire Poet

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

10-02-2024- Birdsong

Saturday 10th February 

I stop and take rest on the bench down by the river 

A fresh winter day, it’s cold and makes me shiver

I move to go on my way along the muddy path

When downs pops a blackbird using a puddle as a bath

I stop and stand in silence while I watch him splash about 

I stand and listen and realise there is birdsong throughout

Hiding in the trees and bushes sending up their chorus 

It’s like the birds have put on a show specifically for us

Perhaps they were reminding me how great Mother Nature is

And all it’s beauty, charm and wonder it freely gives 

Find me on Facebook- Pembrokeshire Poet

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

09-02-2024 - The Race Of A Lifetime 🤔

Friday 9th February 2024

The two old men stood on the start line

Two very different men

Both mature in age

Both living by very different moral codes

Both entering the race of a lifetime 

So much at stake……

The one didn’t start the race 

He couldn’t remember why he was there 

The other didn’t move off the start line

He thought he could just talk a good race 

The loser?

The public who deserved more choice 

Find me on Facebook - Pembrokeshire Poet

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

08-02-2024 -Dance Your Sole Away 😂😩🤔

Thursday 8th February 2024

I danced the night away

My hips did swing and sway

I danced like nobody was looking 

But I seemed to lose my footing

I looked down in confused despair

My poor left boot needed a repair

I danced so hard I’d broken the poor sole

Inside my boot was now a gaping hole!

So the moral of the story - if you wanted to know

When dancing with all your soul beware of your sole! 

Find me on Facebook - Pembrokeshire Poet 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

07-02-2024 - The Old Oak Tree

 Wednesday 7th February 2024

May I rest here for a while

Said the Robin to the tree

Yes of course said the oak 

Please, feel free

The Robin sat awhile 

Admiring the view

The tree made no noise 

Until the Robin upped and flew

His branches creaked and swayed

As the wind rustled through his leaves

It is one’s duty to offer safety to another

This is what that old oak firmly believes 

It was a place of refuge 

For so many seeking shelter 

That large, old oak tree

Really was a great protector 

Find me on Facebook - Pembrokeshire Poet 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

06-02-2024 - check your puppies and jewels!!!

Tuesday 6th February 

Check your puppies and jewels!!!

I have a little message 

If you could stop for just a mo

It could save your life

So it’s a good tip to know!

Ladies check your boobs

It’s quick enough to do

Fellas check your tackle 

It’s not some strange voodoo!

If we check our bits and bobs

As often as we can 

Then we might just spot a change 

It’s goes for a woman or a man 

So ladies coppa feel

Of your puppies on your chest 

Gentlemen cup your jewels 

Put your touch to the test!

None of us want to find

A scary lump or change 

But it’s still so important 

To know our normal range! 

Pembrokeshire Poet 

Copyright ©️ 

05-02-2024 - Can We Be Friends?

Monday 5th February 2024 

I don’t think she likes me very much

I just don’t know what to do

I smile and ask how are you 

But she just looks right on through

I tried to stop and talk to her 

But she’s just gone in a whirl

I don’t know what it is I’ve done 

I’m really rather nice and fun! 

I suppose I have to reflect 

And treat her with respect

So no more wasting energy 

Worrying about yesterday 

I guess we are all different 

To think otherwise is ignorant 

But we should all still be nice

And here endeth my advice 😂

Find me on Facebook - Pembrokeshire Poet

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

04-02-2024 - Feather From Heaven

Sunday 4th February 

I sent a sign tumbling down

It gently fell upon the ground

I watched as you reached out your hand

Then stood and looked all around

I saw the look upon your face 

You knew this was our special place

I watched as you caressed the feather 

Both of us wishing we were still together 

You drop your hand by your side

The feather gently down did glide 

You lift your face up to the sky 

Why oh why did we have to say goodbye 

Find me on Facebook - Pembrokeshire Poet 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

3-2-24 - Glasses

Saturday 3-2-2024 - Glasses

I slip my reading glasses on the side

Confident that tomorrow on my nose they’ll glide

Confident that tomorrow I will still be me

Confident that I will need them to see

I crawl into my comfy bed

Laying down my weary head 

There lie her glasses on the side 

I pick them up and begin to cry

She thought she’d still be here today 

But it was her turn to slip away 

I run my fingers across the smooth frame 

I stand and wonder - will I ever see you again? 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

02-02-2024 - Hello Friday

Friday 2nd February 

The day is done

The working week gone

Its time to relax, chill and unwind 

It’s time for you to empty your mind!

So grab that corkscrew and unleash the wine 

The rugby has started so all will be fine 😂

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

01-02-24 - new day new month!

 Thursday 1st February 2024

A new day is dawning

A new month is forming

What will it hold?

What will it bring?

No crystal ball to foresee the future 

So let’s just take it day by day 

And live in the moment! 

Find me on Facebook - Pembrokeshire Poet

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

31-01-2024 - The Dragon Will Roar

31-01-2024 

There’s a dragon lying very low

He’s getting ready to go go go!

His heart beats through the whole of Wales 

He breathes out fire and has lots of scales

Not long to wait before we hear him roar

And we watch our Welsh rugby team soar 

Find me on Facebook- Pembrokeshire Poet

Six nations countdown….

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

30-01-24 tick tock

 Tuesday 30th January 

Tick tick tick tock

Goes the old grandfather clock

Tick tock tick tock

A regular beating clock

Tick tock tick tock

A beating reassuring clock

Tick tock tick tock

But one day - that tick tock will stop…..

Live for today not for your tomorrows 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

29/01/2024 - What Is This Before My Eyes

 Monday 29th January 2024 

I think what I’m seeing is real?

It looks just like the real deal

That photo on my screen

It’s looks like what I’ve seen

It’s looks just like you 

The image looks so true

That voice sounds just like yours 

I’m feeling quite assured

Then you tell me the frightening truth

You’d have to be a super sleuth

You see what I saw before me eyes

Was just a pure web of lies 

Artificial intelligence is here to stay

You can’t believe all you see today

Taylor Swift a victim of a deep fake image 

A.I - the start of a trail of deception and damage? 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

28/01/2024 - No Parade at Rodney Parade Today! 😞

 Sunday 28th January 2024

The big guns arrived at Rodney Parade

A game of football to be played 

Manchester United versus Newport County 

Who would sweep in and take the bounty?

County played with their hearts and souls

They managed to put away two great goals

But luck wasn’t on the Welsh side today 

Poor Newport County were just out played

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

Find me on Facebook as Pembrokeshire Poet 

27-01-2024 - Blinded By The Traitor

 Saturday 27/01/2024

The lies were told

The dreams were sold

Friendships were made

They all wanted to stay

One by one their fate was sealed

Some traitors along the way were revealed

And so it was the final three 

The faithfuls - the traitor they could not see!

Pembrokeshire Poet on Facebook 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

26/01/2024 - Angel Wings Gained Too Soon

Friday 26/01/2024

How many more times will we have to see this?

A life lived without any love, hugs or a kiss

A life filled with terror, pain and suffering 

Injuries so bad there is no hope of recovering 

How many more times will our hearts be broken?

As we hear of horrors which should never be spoken 

A child’s life should be full of joy, laughter and fun

Not cut short by others before it’s even begun

So let’s all take a moment and pray for their short lives

Could society have done more to ensure they survived?

😞 - for all those abused children who sadly gained their angel wings too soon - my heart breaks for you ❤️

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

25/01/2024 - smile!

Thursday 25/01/2024

Don’t forget to brush your teeth!

You turn, fold your arms and stomp your feet

Look it’s ok I say with a smile

Just brush the ones you want to keep! 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

24-01-2024 - You Don’t Need That - Do You?

Wednesday 24th January 2024 

The litter bins will be overflowing 

Like a fountain the rubbish will be flowing 

Tourists roam our towns, wondering what to do

There is no information centre - so they ask you

Libraries, row upon row of beautiful books

But you will no longer be able to browse or look

Growing old is no fun, this we all know 

But there is nowhere for our loved ones to go

Out for a walk at the beach, town or country?

Then it’s likely you will have to pee behind a tree! 

You can’t see a dentist  -you can’t see a doctor

Hospital waiting lists - another shocker

You don’t need your post on a daily basis 

Be thankful for the services they gave us

Gave us and now we see them all sliding away

“Gave us” - they were services for which we had to pay 

So here we are in the year 2024

Receiving a lot less, paying a lot more

Councils are going bust and public services broken 

The governments gestures and actions just a small token 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

23-01-2024 - Why Hello Jocelyn

Tuesday 23rd January 2024

I’m feeling like Mary Poppins today

What an image that portrays 

I feel if I stepped out the door 

My feet really wouldn’t have touched the floor!

With storm Jocelyn swooping in today 

I would have been up up and away

Is it a bird?

Is it a plane?

No it’s just Joe floating by again 😂

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

22/01/2024 - Positve Vibes

Monday 22nd January 2024

Sprinkle it here

Sprinkle it there

Sprinkle it sparsely

Sprinkle it carefree 

Sprinkle it thickly

Sprinkle it sincerely 

Positive energy 

So good to share

Shows others that you care

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

21-01-2024 - Storm Isha

 Sunday 21st January 

Another day - another night

And as we say goodbye to daylight

Nature is preparing another show 

It’s called Storm Isha don’t you know

Raging winds and lashing rain 

Pounding against the window pane

Winter really is quite erratic

Almost a bit too dramatic 

So wrap up warm and stay inside 

This storm will eventually subside

We can’t control nature in all it’s glory

But global warming - well that’s a different story! 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

20/01/2024 - Slip Sliding Away

 Saturday 20th January 2024

I feel the wind beneath my wings

When I’m up here my soul sings

I sweep and swoop through the jet streams

This is where I live my best dreams

I cast a glance down below 

So much I just don’t know 

I gaze upon the big wide space 

The wind blowing in my face

I look down upon the frozen pond

A feeding place of which I’m fond

But alas I cannot land on this sheet of ice

My feet would slide just like a dice

But wait what’s this - I see below

It’s my old mate, her name is Jo

She’s throwing seed upon the ground 

Right in to land without sliding around! 

I land and stop just in time 

I flew over at the right time!

I take a moment and stop and stare 

It’s great when humans really care 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

19/01/2024 - Fly Me To The Moon

Friday 19th January 2024 - Fly Me To The Moon 

Big and beautiful shining so bright 

We look up and see you during the night

Full of wonder, secrets and mystery 

You’ve seen so much worldwide history

Today a moon landing so we can find out more 

The Japanese leading a charge to explore

Such a beautiful sight for us to behold 

What will it tell us - what stories do you hold?

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

18-01-24 - No Snow Fell Here

18-01-24

The white stuff began to fall from the sky

Glorious sparkly diamonds drifting from up high

They danced around all the way down

Falling and creating a glorious white crown

Like lightweight bubbles they seem to float

As the layers build nature begins to gloat

Look at my crisp jewels lying on the ground

Now as you walk your footsteps make no sound

But wait was is this - a corner left uncovered

Like snow is a substance yet to be discovered

The waves continue to crash upon the shore

No snow fell here - the sand as it was before

Is it missing the beauty of this layer of white?

No - the sun dances on the sea glistening so bright.

Sometimes nature is perfect

Just as it is.........

Joanne C Hicks copyright 

17/01/2024

 Wednesday 17/01/24

What if the best was yet to come?

It could depend on your rule of thumb?

When you feel low and general down

Don’t sit there wallowing with a frown 

Your best day could be yet to come

So to the blues do not succumb!

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

16/01/2024 -Sorry a little word

 16/01/2024 - Sorry such a little word 

What a day it’s been 

When Fujitsu took the public stand 

Postmasters hoping they don’t give them the run around

Hollow words of sorry uttered in the room

But closure for this case cannot come too soon 

It’s been a National scandal 

Of which nobody got a handle 

We also sit and watch as yet more Tories disappear 

I wonder if there will be any left by the end of the year

Maybe they are playing some strange game of Traitors

Banishing who they want, at times acting like dictators 

It would be really funny if our lives weren’t in their hands 

I really think the peoples plight they just don’t understand 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

16/01/2024

 Tuesday 16th January 

Don’t be afraid to stay in the shadows

We don’t all have to be in the light, don’t you know.

It’s ok to hang back and watch from the sidelines 

There are no rigid and strict life guidelines 

We make our own rules about how we live our lives 

Besides you don’t have to be in the light to shine

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

15/01/2024

 Monday 15th January

The ripples are extending

Who knows where it’s all ending

As the troubles in the Yemen carry on 

Sometimes it’s like the little people are just pawns

 

We rely so much on others to provide all we need

Now nothings getting through with any great speed

We need to reconsider how we live our lives

Make Britain great again then maybe we could thrive 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

14/01/24 - No room at the inn

14/01/2024

There used to be no room at the inn

Do you mind if I just squeeze in?

The pews were full of our families and friends

Waiting to hear the messages God sends 

Slowly year upon year the numbers have dwindled 

Fortunately God’s love hasn’t rescinded

The churches and chapels always have room 

A place of sanctuary away from any daily gloom

So now we sit amongst empty pews 

So few of us left to hear the good news

Seats where so many sat before 

Nobody sat there anymore 

But fear not, all is not lost 

We have other bridges to cross 

A church with no walls is a way forward 

We don’t need solid walls to worship the Lord 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

Traitors

I’m loyal and true 

I’m nobody’s fool

I’m 100% faithful through and through

Deceitful and lying

It feels so cool

Don’t trust me - I’m not what you think

I walk as a traitor but will they make the link?

Banishments lurk around every corner 

For those “murdered” there are no mourners

Team faithful - a team with anonymous members

Traitors hoping it’s a faithful they resemble 

A game of strategy and layers of lies

Traitors walking among them like spies

Avoid banishment at all cost

Then you could walk off with all the dosh 😂

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 13/1/24

13/01/2024

 Saturday 13th January 2024

Today we see another day of global trouble

Wouldn’t it be nice if there was a peace bubble?

We could just pick it up and blow it

And solve all the worlds disputes

Now it’s air strikes and bombardment in the Yemen 

Will it solve the problem? That is the question?

If only all of mankind could live side by side 

And we weren’t left mourning all those who’ve died 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

12-01-2024

 Friday 12th January 

Apparently today is National quitters day

New Year’s resolution in tatters will lay

All those good intentions have gone out the window 

You are starting to feel despondent and a little bit low

You’ve given up the good stuff, chocolate, crisps and wine

It’s now that your body is sulking and beginning to pine

Don’t beat yourself up or bang your head against the wall 

Sometimes we just pre-programme ourselves for a fall

We set huge goals that are way too ambitious 

Then everything suddenly looks irresistibly delicious 

So always think in baby steps, one day at a time

If you set mini goals you will achieve them just fine 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

11/01/2024

 Thursday 11th January 

Do you know where your clothes come from

Who was it that sat and made them?

Do we ever look where items were made?

In the mind blowing world of overseas trade.

Today Boohoo have to admit their mistake 

Was it really a simple error to make? 

Sewing in labels “made in Britain”

A lie so blatantly written

They blame human error - a misunderstanding 

Confusion over rules regarding the branding 

So can we believe anything we are told?

As the trader marks the goods as sold! 

Joanne C Hicks 11/01/24 copyright ©️ 

10/01/2024

 Wednesday 10 January 2024

Call me a cynic 

Call me a fool

But isn’t funny

After years of 

Conservative rule

That with an election 

Shortly looming

They’re spouting of tax cuts

And suddenly 

Sorting justice for postmasters

A winter election

Would suit them just fine

Dark mornings and nights

Weather wet, windy or snow 

Call me a cynic

Call me a fool

But I smell a rat…….😂🤷🏻‍♀️

09-01-2024

 Tuesday 9th January 

Today is the day so many of us wanted

We signed the petition and Ms Vennells responded 

She finally bowed down to public pressure

Returning her CBE - probably to her displeasure!

Over a million people called for some justice 

The Post Office a brand supposed to say “trust us”

I’m pleased she’s finally done the honourable thing 

This wonderful news has made my sad heart sing

Perhaps now, Mr Bates the hero of the hour 

Will accept his honour from those in power

He’s fought the good fight for them year upon year 

And now, just maybe, full justice is near. 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

08-01-2024

 Monday 8th January

The stone that was rolling

Now goes at full pelt

The government must stop crawling

And sort out real help

The public outcry 

Has been overwhelming 

Justice for postmasters

The people are yelling

It’s all over the news

There is no denying 

Prosecutions continued 

Despite all the lying

Let’s hope those in power

Now do the right thing

The Post Office have surely 

Run out of mud to sling! 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 

07-01-2024

 Sunday 7th January 2024

Natures delivered a blanket of glitter

It’s covering the plants, even the litter!

Thousands of diamonds sprayed on the leaves

Blades of grass sporting a glittery sleeve

It’s cold and bright with the sun dancing through

A glorious sight although my fingers are blue! 

Yes natures delivered a blanket of glitter

Now it’s a slippery journey to getting fitter. 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 7-1-24

06-01-2024

 Saturday 6th January 2024

A frightening flight for 177 passengers 

Suddenly seat belts life saving fasteners 

Whilst up in the sky a gaping hole appeared

So horrendously scary for those sat near

Thankfully the pilot brought them down safely 

Acting calmly and the staff showed true bravery

So let’s give thanks that nobody was hurt 

A huge disaster they all managed to avert 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 6-1-24

05-01-2024 - Well done Mr Bates

 Friday 5th January 2024

We sat in horror and watched the Horizon scandal unfold

It really was a true story needing to be fully told

Hundreds of sub postmasters lives lying in ruins 

Due to a corporate scandal and wrong doings 

A system that was faulty but that was denied 

Instead corruption and fraud continuously implied

Years of heartbreak and hardship have followed 

Once full happy lives lie eroded and hollowed 

Fingers were pointed and judgements were made

The postmasters are guilty the people would say 

But gradually Alan Bates uncovered the truth 

He turned into a relentless, driven super sleuth

Yet here we are over 20 years later 

Still pouring over the inaccurate data 

So many lives ripped apart by this atrocious scandal 

Corporate suits decided it was a truth too hot to handle 

We can’t undo the past and change what has happened 

So give people back their money and lives once imagined 

Lets also take a moment to stop and pray

For those we sadly lost along the way 

Joanne C Hicks  copyright ©️ 5-1-24

04-01-2024

 Thursday 4th January 2024

The rain is still falling across our green lands

Streams, lakes and rivers continue to expand 

The land is so sodden it’s a marshmallow quality 

The poor weather forecasters offer up an apology

But it’s not their fault the lands are all sodden 

And the population generally downtrodden 

But has man had some sort of part to play?

In days that are now windy, wet and grey?

Maybe it’s time we all sat and took note

Either that or perhaps start saving for a boat!

Our seasons are changing year upon year 

So ask yourselves - is climate change a thing to fear? 

Joanne C Hicks 4/1/24 copyright ©️ 

03-01-2024

Wednesday 3rd January 2024 

You wipe the sweat from your tense brow

You’ve still got remnants of sleep in your eye

Exhausted you resolve to carry on

Despite the hours that have already gone

Nobody really knows how hard you work

People to ready to call you a jerk

When things go wrong it’s to you they turn

Sometimes you don’t know why you return 

But return you do, day after day

But no more - you’re making a stand today 

You’re demanding a fair wage for all you do

Six days of strikes - colleagues fighting for you 

You’re worth more than what the government say

So stand firm and demand fair and equal pay 

Junior doctors are the blood of our NHS

And here in Britain we want to keep the best. 

Joanne C Hicks 03-01-2024 copyright ©️ 

02-01-2024 - Henk is here!

 02-01-2024

Storm Henk has swept in

Uninvited 

Rains pouring down 

Lashing on faces

The wind is swirling

Round and round

Whistling and whooshing

Making a deafening sound 

Ground sodden with lagoons of water

It’s nowhere to go

I suppose we are perhaps grateful 

It’s not falling as snow 

2024 has unleashed 

its first wild beast 

Pounding down upon us

Why can’t this rain cease?

Water pours off the sodden land

Like a relentless rollercoaster 

No sign of it stopping 

Fast and furious like a stolen motor

Spring feels like 

A lifetime away

When maybe, just maybe 

Days won’t be so grey! 

Joanne C Hicks 2-1-24 copyright ©️ 

 

01-01-2024

A warning is issued to those in Japan

Earthquakes are shaking all of the land

People flee terrified to higher ground

As tsunamis loom and threaten to drown

A country in turmoil as we celebrate a new year

2024 starting with heartache and fear

Joanne C Hicks 1/1/2024 copyright ©️ 

Don’t Make Do

The girl sat and pondered 

A whole new year 

She wondered what it was

That she held dear

She thought for a moment 

What did she hold true?

She decided that in future

She wouldn’t just make do 

Joanne C Hicks 1/1/2024 copyright ©️ 

Your Invisible Cape

Your Invisible Cape

I wear an invisible cape 

Most of us do.

Some know they have it 

And it’s been their life glue.

My cape doesn’t mean 

that I’m a super hero.

It can take me at top speed 

But then drop down to zero.

It’s a sad state of affairs 

That not all capes are equal

And our early roots 

Can determine our sequel.

Society can also dictate

The shape and fit of our cape.

Forcing many to wear capes

That don’t fit their shape.

Some people are lucky 

And get a cape and passion.

Some capes are heavy

And cannot be unfastened.

The design of your cape

Is set early on

But it doesn’t have to be

The one that you don.

I can see you looking 

On most perplexed.

I can see that I’ve not

Shared my pretext.

This invisible cape I refer to 

Is your education.

But don’t think it’s just

From birth to graduation.

Each day we start anew 

New day and new dawn

Opportunities for learning 

To keep us moving on.

So never think 

It’s just too late for me. 

Remember education is vital

and can help turn that key. 

J C Hicks Copyright ©️ 03-01-23 

Find me on Facebook - Pembrokeshire Poet

Author of Eloquent, a collection of poems available on Amazon. 

Ups and Downs

Today someone will take their last breath

Today someone will take their first breath

Today is the last day of the year

Tomorrow we start a new year

It will be a year with heartache and pain

It will be a year with happiness and joy

It will be a year with tears and sadness

It will be a year with laughter and joy

Life has ups and downs - the road is always unknown 

All we can hope is the ups outweigh the downs

The downs can help us reflect and appreciate the ups 

So I hope 2024 is kind to you 

And you can find the strength to get through the hard times

If you have one New Year’s resolution 

Keep it simple 

Be kind to yourself ❤️

Joanne C Hicks 31/12/23 copyright ©️ 

A growing derrière! 🙈

 A growing derrière

I’m starting to feel like a certain vicar we all know

Who had to eat several Christmas dinners all in a row

I’ve finished off the turkey and the stuffing is nearly gone

But the food mountain just seems to go on and on

The pate isn’t even opened and it’s use by date is nigh 

I think I can fit it in over the weekend if I really try 

The cheese has made a mini mountain upon my fridge shelf

I’m wondering if I should have sent some to Santa via his elf

The Quality Street seems to have a never ending bottom 

I’ve got Prosecco, gin, brandy and even hot and spicy rum 

I’m doing my best to get through it but failing pretty fast

The problem is that my derrière is becoming pretty vast 

So I’ve set myself a deadline to get through this festive feast

So the diet starts in January before I become more obese! 

Joanne C Hicks 28/12/24 copyright ©️ 

Presence not presents

The wrapping paper is in the bin

Santa Claus and his elves have been 

You may not have got all that you wished for 

We always seem to be wanting more

The fridge is full of turkey leftovers

Dads sporting new socks and pullovers

Mums are happy but exhausted 

Were they appropriately supported?

The lounge is strewn with toys and gifts

With washing up being done in shifts

It comes around just once a year 

Soon the decorations will disappear

I hope it was a day of joy

For every girl and boy

But time is the most precious gift of all 

Making memories we will one day recall 

So don’t fret if yours was a simple day

You must do Christmas your own way

It’s not about the food and presents 

It’s all about your unique presence 

Joanne C Hicks 26/12/23 copyright ©️ 

Pre-Christmas life

 I’m doing my bit for Christmas 

By eating all the pies

But now I’ve noticed 

My belly’s grown by miles 😱

I guess I will have to stop

Before my tum explodes

Aw well may as well wait til next year 

I will never be trim and toned 😂🙈

Joanne C Hicks 20-12-23  ©️

The Christmas Robin

 The Christmas Robin 

I was there, I was the the first to see

The start of a story of greatness and glory

I saw Mary shed a joyful tear

And watched as Joseph always stayed near

I saw the wondrous star shining bright 

It truly was a glorious leading light

I watched them lay the baby down to sleep

He didn’t stir and nor did he let out a peep

I knew I had to fly and tell one and all 

The whole of mankind must hear my call

I puff out my bright red breast

I really have no time to rest

I sit and take in the sight before me

Just a Christmas Robin sitting in his tree

But I was there

I was the first to see 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 14/12/23

Friends Like These

As we wake up to hear the news

That may make some feel quite blue

Let it be the moment you stop and think

You never know when you may be on the brink

Matthew Perry made us laugh 

But of his life we just saw half

A life of turmoil, drugs and addiction 

A well documented affliction 

Let’s hope his life had more highs than lows 

How much happiness he had - only he knows

So live each day as if it’s your last 

So when you leave you think - yeah I had a blast! 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 29/10/23

Shoplifting - Where Is The Harm?

Shop lifting - Where is the harm?

I can’t feed my family 

I don’t know what to do 

I don’t qualify for food banks

Or any government help 

I work really hard 

But I can’t feed my family

What should I do? 

I’ve got an addiction I just need to feed 

I’ve got no money but can’t fight this urge

It started out harmless - just a bit of fun 

Now IT’S in control

I’m an addict 

I just need to feed it

My mates made me do it 

I was scared not to

I want to fit in 

They coerced me and bullied me

It’s not really a crime 

These shops can afford it

Well, that’s what my mates say 

I used to love my job 

I’d chat with the customers 

We’d laugh and exchange news 

Now I’m always on edge 

And don’t know what to do

I saw that young mother stealing that food

But I know she’s no money 

That man who won’t make eye contact

He has a problem with drugs

I daren’t challenge him as he scares me a little

That young lad who ran in 

Stole a packet of sweets

His face full of guilt

I saw his mates waiting 

Yes I used to love my job

Now I’m just not so sure

My boss says he can no longer pay me

He’s letting me go

He had a heavy heart as he delivered this blow

His profits are down 

Cost are just spiralling 

The increase in stealing is taking its toll

It’s like taking it from his family’s table 

He can no longer pay me - he’s letting me go

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 26/10/23

A Brother’s Goodbye

A Brother’s Goodbye 

The little boy let out a heart wrenching cry

To his big sister he had to say a final goodbye

Her life robbed not by illness or accident 

But by someone who was not an inhabitant 

Gunned down in cold blood - an innocent child 

No longer will her family see her beautiful smile

A whole life ahead of her and it’s been ripped away

Her family will have traumatic memories, which stay 

There are no winners in a long running war

Only atrocities, pain, suffering and so much more.

Joanne C Hicks 23/10/23 copyright ©️ 

Beauty From Within

Beauty From Within 

Will you be my friend said the boy to the girl

Shocked she stopped and pushed aside her brown curl

She nervously ran her fingers over her deep brown skin 

She stepped back - they were not from the same akin

Please said the boy I’d love to be your friend

I think our personalities would truly blend 

The girl looked down feeling a little shy

She didn’t know what to say, how to reply

The boy ventured further - I’m blind you see

So I can only go on what I hear - not see

Your laughter filled the air and your voice is rich and pure 

You talk with compassion and that was the allure

The girl’s face slowly broke into a smile 

She realised the boy had been watching her for a while

The boy didn’t care about the colour of her skin

He knew that a persons beauty comes from within

Joanne C Hicks 23/10/23 copyright ©️ 

Warfare - where is the good in it?

Warfare - where is the good in it? 

Needless destruction all around 

Rubble piled where there once was a town 

People wandering around in a daze

Picking their way amongst a newly formed maze

Innocent children now lonely orphans 

Unable to understand their new misfortune 

The sound of people wailing and crying 

As they realise just how many are dying 

Hearts broken that will never heal 

Do those responsible have hearts of steal?

Sadness and despair fills the air 

Innocent humans trapped by pointless warfare 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 16/10/23

The Path Of Life

The Path Of Life 

I don’t know which way to go 

Along the path of life

Let me tell you a secret - none of us know

It’s like walking on a knife

Don’t look ahead - don’t look behind

Just remember, focus on the moment 

Time isn’t promised so bear this in mind

You’re growing and never really broken 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 15/10/23

Take a moment

Today - take a moment

A moment in time 

A moment in peace 

A moment of calm 

Take a moment….

For you 

❤️