Where Is My Handbook…?

Where is my handbook?

Wouldn’t it be great if when we arrived on earth

We were provided with a handbook - your life from birth

A neatly laid out road map that directed you on your way

Wow - that would be amazing, I can hear you say 

But would you stop and thumb through those pages

To see what your life map may look like?

Study the mistakes that we are yet to make 

So closely, that we restrict how we live day to day

We amble along the road of life 

Letting each day unfold 

Sometimes fear roots us to the spot

We don’t attempt to  break the mould 

Sometimes we are blinkered 

Reluctant to lift the blindfold 

Yet all the while we search for that special spark 

If you flicked through the pages 

Filled with heartache, grief, hurt and despair

Would you skip these pages?

Walk away from that loving relationship

Don’t take the dream job that burnt you out

Not connect with others to avoid the pain of loss

But we don’t need a fancy handbook to lead us 

Sometimes all you need to do is to seize the day

Feel that fear - try something new

It doesn’t matter if you fail - just try and see it through!

Would you live and love differently if you knew the pages of your book?

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet

2nd July 2025

Author of Eloquent, a collection of poems available on Amazon! ❤️

Who’s World Is It…..?

I’ve had a busy night

You don’t understand my plight

The countryside’s my home

I feel so alone 

You humans don’t seem to care

Strewing your litter everywhere 

Why desecrate my world?

You don’t even seem concerned 

This lush green land is where I live

But when my babies die I can’t forgive 

Snarled in that mangled can 

Killed by the hands of man 

Just a baby, she saw the glint 

The can covered with your fingerprints

The can she thought was possibly food 

Your can took the life of one of my brood

This land we live in is not yours

You drive round in your fancy cars

While you threw away what you didn’t want

My nest is now empty 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet

24th June 2025

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

Retreat, retreat, retreat 🧘

We arrived full of anticipation, laced with fear

Thank goodness Rhi had said “bring some beer”

Yoga and wine

Go together just fine!

Rise and shine at 4am to watch the dawn break 

Sleepy souls strolling past the mirror like lakes

Peace perfect peace as we trekked to the cliff top

The glowing, gorgeous orange sun our backdrop

But there was glowing of a different kind before us

As we lay upon our mats - in Rhi we placed our trust!

Your body - your yoga was the mantra of the day

Just do what you can, come what may

Sweaty bodies, bright red faces

Rhi put us through our paces! 

We knew a reward lay in store 

Gorgeous vegan food for one and all

We ate, we laughed and shed some tears

But Rhi was there to allay our fears

I saw the world from upside down!

A beaming face from my worried frown

Life can be good for you and for me

Practice gratitude daily and you’ll feel truly free 

Reach for the stars and never give up

Yoga will help you fill up your life cup

After all the blood, sweat and tears

The end of the retreat drew near

New friend were made, old ones reunite 

As we come together under starlight 

What better way to end a yoga retreat

Than by a fire ,with wine and treats

Some of us even broke out the sherry 

Everyone was rather merry!

So don’t be afraid to just let it all go

Breathe in, breathe out - go with the flow

Your body can do amazing things 

Yoga can give your soul freedom wings! 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet

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

23rd June 2025

Claudette the Comma

Claudette the Comma 

I saw a beautiful butterfly as I walked along the lane

I stopped and wondered, what is this beauty’s name?

I took to social media to ask what it was called

The answer I got left me slightly perplexed 

With its gorgeous orange wings

Is known as a Comma

"Claudette the Comma," my witty sister pings

😂🤷🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️

Just say …….

There’s a word that we find so hard to say

A small little word and it can get in the way

Sometimes we just can’t say it no matter what

Even though it goes against our gut 

Something so small yet it exerts such control 

We should just follow our heart and soul 

What’s wrong with saying what we feel

It really shouldn’t be a big deal 

So here’s the word you need to know 

That little word - it’s the word no

We don’t have to always say yes okay

Sometimes it’s alright to do things our way! 

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet copyright ©️ 9-6-25

Author of Eloquent, a collection of poems available to buy on Amazon 

Carew Wesley Anniversary 2025

There’s a building nestled alongside the still waters

It has a band of very loyal supporters 

It sits next to the majestic conker tree

Where children collect its treasure with glee

It’s doors are open to one and all

Not just to those who hear Gods call

It’s stood in situ longer than you or me 

Alongside the lofty Horse Chestnut tree 

On Sundays it’s filled with glorious song

But this isn’t just a singalong

Congregational singing full of happiness and joy 

John Brock is definitely our golden boy

Waves of voices rise up like a living sea 

Hearts, minds and spirits are truly free

Singing praises to the Lord our God 

In the place where so many others have trod 

Inside Carew Wesley you’ll find a sanctuary 

But nothing about it is extraordinary 

You’ll find ordinary people like me and you 

Who will help you with whatever you’re going through

In the stillness surrounding you there is a sense of peace 

You can just relax and let all your troubles release 

Here in the presence of our dear Lord

Your heart and soul will be fully restored

These four walls have seen all emotions 

Offered up in praise and devotions

We’ve laughed together but shed some tears

For all those we’ve lost over the years 

So in this quaint little chapel you are not alone

Even strangers are merely friends unknown

So let’s come together in praise and song

To celebrate our faith, which will be lifelong. 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 2nd June 2025

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

Push Out Your Branches

Push Out Your Branches

The trees stand tall upon the rising lands 

Glorious in every way

Firmly rooted 

Weathering the storms

Some survive 

Others so brittle they fall 

The strongest thrive

The weaker reach for a chink of light

Smothered by the taller, fuller trees

They don’t give up 

They know

Beyond the branches sheltering them

Is life

Despite the maze above them

They reach out their branches 

With the helping hand of rain and sun 

They slowly but surely grow

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet copyright ©️ 

4th June 2024

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

No judgement within these walls

You slip your hand into mine

I can’t believe you’ve been so kind

I look deep into your eyes

As I lie there and just cry

No judgment made 

No attempt to degrade

Just empathy 

Just kindness 

You are a stranger but you act with care 

Hold my hand while I whisper a prayer

I’m scared, frightened and all alone 

In constant pain I let out a small groan 

You squeeze my arm so I know you are there 

I know you are obliged to provide me care

But you show me kindness and compassion 

I can see you do your job with such passion

In hospitals all barriers come down

All become equal

The gay man saves the homephobic man

The black woman saves the white man

The Catholic nurse comforts the atheist 

If only we had no barriers for all mankind

That we could all live with peace of mind 

No more fighting, wars and prejudice 

If only mankind acted with more selflessness 

We may not all have the same beliefs 

But we could unite in peace, instead of grief?

It’s not our place to judge each other 

Wouldn’t it be better if we just loved one another? 

Joanne Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet copyright ©️ 

Author of “Eloquent” a collection of poems available on Amazon 

Love and Obedience

Love is such a small word that rolls off our tongues

Do we ever consider its true deeper meaning?

It floats out of our mouths as we turn to go 

Love you - we say as we are halfway out the door

We tag it on to material objects, like our favourite mug, pen or socks

But do we ever consider the love gifted to us from above?

An invisible, all encompassing love that comes with no hidden strings attached

What was God’s expectation of us in return for his love?

Maybe He seeks our obedience 

Laid out within the Ten Commandments 

If we can follow and abide by these ten simple rules

Would our lives be fuller, richer 

Would we consider our fellow human beings more?

Surely it is the greatest blessing that can be bestowed upon us 

Love and obedience - God coupled them together - hand in hand 

The depth of love is more than words that trip off the tongue 

Joanne C Hicks

9th May 2025 

Tree Hugging Soul 🌳🥰

Always stop to smell the flowers

Remember life is made up of hours

Stop and soak up the view 

Even if it isn’t new

Let troubles float on by

They will still be there, for another time 

Time spent over trivial matters

Is time we can’t revisit 

Choose positivity 

And words that heal your heart 

What’s better than riches - wild and free?

So please don’t laugh at me 

If you see me wrapped around a tree 🌳 😂

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet copyright ©️ 

6th May 2025

Author of “Eloquent”, a collection of poems, available on Amazon! 

Sea, sand and me

 Sea, sand and me

I gaze across the sea at the white crested waves 

Mesmerised; as they dance, they hold my gaze

Their energy builds as they curl up into a crescendo 

As they glide over the salty waters like a flamenco 

So much energy flooding towards the sandy beach

I stretch out my hand dipping it into the swirling waters 

The cold icy water rushes around my hand 

As I slowly rest it on the golden sand 

Taking a moment with the sea, sand and me

The water pulls back out and I take in the sea breeze

An empty mind and a chilled out vibe 

Yes - this is what the doctor prescribed 

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet copyright ©️ 

5th May 2025

Author of “Eloquent”, a collection of poems, available on Amazon! 

Grow Your Soul

Do you ever lie awake in bed

Your life running around in your head 

Wondering about the life choices you’ve made

Turning down opportunities because you were afraid

So many cross roads you’ve had to ponder

Did you ever take the wrong turn you wonder?

Round and round these thoughts swirl 

Before long your mind is just in a whirl 

But you can’t reverse and go back in time

You don’t need this turmoil at bedtime

So take a deep breath and let it all go 

A calmer soul has room to grow. 

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet copyright ©️ 

Author of Eloquent, a collection of poems, available on Amazon now! 

Society - The Broken Dream

Society is feeling a little broken

Society is feeling a little sad

Society is feeling a little scary

Society is feeling a little uncertain 

Society is feeling like a tempestuous teenager

Lost

Confused

Frightened

Unknown

Divided

Not heard

But there is always hope

There is always love

There is always compassion

There is always understanding 

There is always trust

So when you feel the future swarming in like a big, black, threatening cloud - look for the positives. That’s what makes the world turn. Nothing stays the same - good or bad. 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet 

If Dogs Could Talk ….

If Dogs Could Talk….

You’ve clearly forgotten, you’re in my spot

That seems to happen quite a lot

You know the sofa is where I sit

I call it my cosy, puppy pit

I think you’ve forgotten I have a mouth

I pouted, whined, whimpered and shouted 

But you sat and ate all your tea

Right there - in front of me! 

You didn’t seem all that happy

In fact I’d say you looked displeased 

You placed that fluffy toy in my bed

And in thirty seconds I’d ripped off his head 

I had expected high praise indeed

When I took that toy and set it free

I doggedly pulled his stuffing out

And you - all you did was pout 

When I took you out for a walk 

As we walked through the park

I let out lots of short, sharp barks 

“Quiet” was all you could remark 

I’ve tried so hard to work you out 

I don’t know what you’re about

But I know that we’ve got a special bond 

And here, with you, is where I belong. ❤️

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet copyright ©️ 

20th March 2025 

On The Brink …..

We’re standing on the brink of something looking really dark

Nobody knows where it will end or where did it really start 

The world seems to spiralling, every way we turn 

We don’t appear to have paid heed to lessons already learnt

People facing daily struggles just to feed their families 

Politicians appearing to blank out the community casualties 

World leaders butting heads like angry charging bulls 

Our eyes completely blinkered by the wool they’ve pulled 

I’m staring over the precipice and I just can’t see the light

I don’t want to see any more countries preparing to fight 

Does anyone have the answer to find some lasting peace?

We sit and watch the dream of lower living costs decrease.

We mustn’t give up hope - it’s all we now have left

In many ways, in our country, we are still truly blessed 

I hope the path to brighter days will open up ahead 

Before too many more innocent people end up dead. 

9th March 2025 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet

Is mankind blind?

My heart is full of sadness 

Witnessing such madness

The world needs peace 

We need the fighting to cease

But those in power seem blinkered 

Just wanting to take precious minerals unhindered 

It’s a sad day for humankind

Surely, mankind cannot be so blind 

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet 1/3/2025 copyright ©️ 

Just let it all go…..

Just Let It All Go 

I’ve locked it away deep out of sight 

This pain that will never see the light

Buried way down deep in my soul

But it keeps seeping out of a tiny hole

The moment I thought I heard your voice

The hole gets bigger, like I have no choice

When I thought I saw you across the street

Hoping and praying that we would once again meet 

No - I’ve locked you away you can’t come out

Making me want to scream and shout

Taking over all my feelings and emotions 

Like a firework causing an explosion 

I’ve buried that grief way down deep 

I won’t allow myself to sit and weep

And yet - somehow as the hole grows

And more pain begins to overflow 

I have a sense of relief and the tears flow

I realise that I’m missing you so 

But it’s ok to just let it all go 

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet 24/01/2025

Copyright ©️ 

Life’s Tests

The frustration and nerves whirl round and round

Struggling because that answer just can’t be found

Why do we do it

What does it prove

Life should be easy, just flowing along

Sometimes it feels like failure is my theme song

Again and again - hitting that wall 

I get up and then once again fall

I don’t want to be tested 

Like in life I’m not invested 

But what would life be without any challenges?

Sometimes the good and the bad balances 

Perhaps life’s tests are merely opportunities 

To strengthen life in our communities 

Without challenges how would we grow and learn 

We need to rise up to all its twists and turns

Daily tests, big and small help us find ourselves

Making us soul search and question and delve 

So those hurdles we have to climb may have a purpose

Maybe the strength they give us somehow serves us

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet copyright ©️ 

18th January 2025 

Benji Boo - The Destroyer

Mr Teddy meets Benji Boo

I think Benji Boo deserves a treat
A new squeaky toy will be neat
A bright yellow teddy with shaggy hair  Looks pretty tough, that won’t tear.

I pass Mr Teddy to Benji Boo
And let him have a good old chew
Fast forward about thirty minutes
Mr Teddy has reached his limit

Head hanging off, squeak is no more
Insides lying all over the floor
A brutal toy murder has occurred
The speed of destruction was absurd 

Benji sits alongside Mr Teddy
The dismembered toy looking so forlorn
Pets At Home must love this pup
Man - they’d best stock up! 

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet copyright ©️
15/01/2025

In memory of …….

I let go of the shiny ribbon

And watch as its pace quickens

The ribbon slips away from my fingers

I am longing the feeling to linger 

The feeling of freedom 

The feeling of joy

The feeling of remembrance 

The feeling of peace 

The balloon floats way up high

Weightless, dancing through the blue sky

I clutch my heart and say a prayer 

I will always keep you locked in there

The balloon slowly begins to fall

Lands on the ground, swept along like a ball

The horse saw the glint of the foil in the hedge

He can just reach it, even if it’s a small stretch 

The following morning the girl is met with horror 

She approaches the horse with absolute terror

It’s lifeless body lies in the field, that was it’s home 

Where it was once free to gallop and roam 

The balloon you released to help with your grief 

Which gave some comfort, albeit brief 

Has turned her world upside down 

Her whole body hurts, and she just breaks down. 

I know loss is so hard to bear 

But please find a kinder way to mark loved ones memories 

Sorry if you find this hard hitting but it’s the sad reality of releasing balloons. 🎈 ❤️

Joanne C Hicks 13/01/2025 copyright ©️ 

Pembrokeshire Poet

Half empty or half full….

Half Empty or half full…..

I’m staring at my glass as it twinkles in the light 

Wondering if there is a more beautiful sight

But when you look at that glass, is it half empty of half full?

I guess it’s all about prospective, so let’s go with a brimful

If the glass is half empty you can always fill it up

If the glass is half full, then there’s still plenty to sup

So don’t fret if you think there’s simply not enough

In reality, a lot of us, always have too much stuff! 

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet copyright ©️ 

10/01/2025 

Wasting Away

Wasting Away

Choking - our seas and rivers 

Are slowly choking.

Polluted and swamped

By humankind.

We profess to love animals,

To love the environment.

Yet our lives are surrounded,

by things we just throw away.

A disposable life,

where nothing is treasured.

A second in our hands,

A lifetime in our seas. 

We don’t want the inconvenience,

Carrying a bag, a cup, a straw.

We walk this planet 

With an air of a divine right.

Like humans are better,

Than any other living thing.

Easy come - easy go,

We are far too busy to care.

Meanwhile our waters,

Are littered with micro plastics.

Plastics filtering into the food chain,

Killing innocent creatures.

The damage is done,

The pollutants are out there.

Imagine being smothered,

By a man made material. 

Only we can make the change,

Reduce out waste.

Care more about our planet,

All its living creatures.

Let’s take a moment,

Stop and think.

If we had to keep all our waste,

Would we all create so much? 

J C Hicks ©️ copyright 6/2/23 

Goodbye 2024

When the clock strikes midnight open the door 

Let it all go 

When the clock strikes midnight look forwards

Don’t look back

When the clock strikes midnight stop for a moment 

Be grateful

When the clock strikes midnight let go of the old

Every day is new 

Reset your clock and don’t be hard on yourself

We are all learning about the game called life 

Day by day, year on year 

Happy New Year! 

Christmas time

A time when many reflect 

A time when so many connect

A time to be thankful 

A time to be grateful 

A time to think of those no longer here 

A time to celebrate 

A time to forgive, before it’s too late

A special time of year 

Spent with loved ones far and near 

Merry Christmas! 

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet copyright ©️ 

A Very Special Tree

The tree shining brightly - it’s lights all aglow

So many precious memories that only you know 

The bauble the children painted with glee

A beautiful angel hangs on a branch on our tree

There’s stars, bells and reindeer - collected for years

And now I stop, as down my cheek rolls a tear

Another Christmas without you - I feel so alone 

When you died a spark went out in our home 

But my tree brings me joy and a warm feeling 

Memories of children, Christmas morning, squealing 

Memories of laughter as we adorned our tree 

With decorations collected as a family

So I will sit and smile, wipe the tears from my face

For you live on in my heart in a very special place 

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet 16/12/2024 

Copyright ©️ 

The Lady of the night ……and day ….

Mother Nature 

She moves mysteriously through the night

Sleek like a panther in full flight

Present everywhere, but seen nowhere 

Summer, autumn, winter and spring 

She glides smoothly, an invisible force

Allowing nature to take its course

She nurtures, protects, destroys and rearranges

Always bringing so many changes 

Shrouded in mystery that we’ll never understand 

So many things touched by her caring hand 

Sometimes we find what she does terrifying 

She can feed life but also watch as things are dying 

We will never see her but she’s always there 

Displaying her beauty everywhere 

Mother Nature the ruler of all

She decides what fate nature befalls 

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet 10/12/24 

Copyright ©️ 

Roaming Robots

Roaming Robots 

The robots are coming - don’t be afraid

You will be able to leave your bed unmade

It will tidy and clean, like a powerful machine

Your jobs will be done, it’s ever so keen! 

It will stop what it’s doing to have a wee chat

Your house will be clean - just like that

But what if one day it doesn’t do as it’s asked?

Refuses to go and to do all your tasks

The reason behind it - because it’s been hacked 

Now how on earth will we be dealing with that!

So I don’t want a humanoid roaming around 

When it comes to A.I., I wish we’d slow down!

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet 

Be A Creator!

A blank canvas - clear, white and endless

That vast space before you feels so tremendous 

Then the emptiness suddenly overwhelms you 

Fill all that space - how - what will you do?

Don’t over think it - just let it flow 

Where it will go nobody knows

Reach inside and turn the key

Release your mind let it be free 

We are all creators in various ways 

Free up your mind - just let it graze

Like branches on trees always growing 

Where it will end we have no way of knowing 

Everyone’s a creator in their own unique way

Just tentatively dip your toe in the water today

Pick up that needle, brush, pen or pencil

That tool is your own creative stencil! 

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet copyright ©️ 

13/11/2024

Let That Flame Burn Brightly 🔥

Let Your Inner Flame Burn Bright

Candle candle burning bright

Flames, like fingers, spread the light 

Your flame flickers and dances around

Yet you make no sound 

That tiny flame holds a hidden power 

Whilst the light diminishes by the hour

Connection can pass the glow along

The life of the flame now prolonged 

A gentle breeze enters the room

The flame flickers, but resumes

A brief but mesmerising dance

That could move you to a trance

Your colours are rich and ever-changing

Vibrant and so wide ranging 

But slowly the light begins to fade

Until the light has died away 

At birth our candle comes alive

Our flame begins to slowly rise 

The winds of life can change our course

Life is not something we can rehearse 

So let your inner flame burn bright and strong

We really don’t know if it will burn for long

So spread your colours far and wide 

Never be afraid to show what’s on the inside 

 🕯️ 🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️❤️

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 11/11/2024

22/10/2024 - An ever expanding waistline 🙈

I seem to have a problem - all my clothes have shrunk

I put them in to wash before they absolutely stunk

But now there is a gaping chasm between the button and its hole 

Just getting them to meet has become my short term goal

Must be something in the water that’s caused this phenomenon 

I’m not sure that I will ever get my beloved jeans back on 

My belly’s like a mountain and the material seems short

It seems my ever expanding waistline has finally been caught 🙈😂

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet 22/10/2024

 copyright ©️ 

20/10/2024 - A Story To Be Told

Apparently we’ve all been given a gift from above

Delivered and wrapped all up in love 

Don’t fret, don’t worry if you don’t know what it is

Don’t let every day turn into a life quiz!

Nobody said it would be apparent from the start 

So as you travel on the road, just follow your heart 

Your purpose will be clear as you travel down that road

Everyone has a story just waiting to be told. 

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet 20/10/2024 

14/10/2024 - Hope Is All We Have

The Thread 

I twisted my fingers tighter

The pain of holding on…..

Cuts through every inch of my flesh

I tighten my grip

Can’t let go

I breathe 

Filling my lungs

An invisible force 

Giving me strength 

I realise the thread I’m gripping

It grows thicker

I loosen my grip a little

Relief washes over me 

Every moment I hold on 

The thread becomes stronger 

When all you see is darkness 

Then all you have is hope

Hold on to it

It will grow

Always there 

And sometimes …..

It’s all we have 

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet 14/10/2024

14/10/2024 - Tomorrow - it’s never promised ❤️

I thought you’d always be there

Along with your big smile

I always thought you’d be there

To go the extra mile 

I thought we’d grow old together 

Reminiscing about the past

I always thought we had a friendship

That would always last 

I thought we had a lifetime

To catch up and share a wine

I always thought you’d be there 

And I could just drop you a line 

Today we go on without you 

It makes my heart so sad

That for my final chapters

We will spend them apart 

Never take tomorrow for granted 

One day 

There may not be a tomorrow 

Make time for those you care about 

❤️❤️❤️

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet 14/10/2024

Birthday love!

I’ve had the best birthday, the best I could have

I’ve had delicious cake on my lips; that landed on my hips

I’ve felt the Facebook love with birthday wishes galore

I’ve eaten salad and pizza until I could eat no more

I’ve soaked up all of Valletta, which truly is a gem 

And with happy hour I was nearly overwhelmed 

Aperol Spritz here, Aperol Spritz there

Sipping that orange delight without a single care

So thank you one and all for all the birthday love

 I’ve gained a few birthday pounds which  I need to get rid of! 

😂😂😂

26/08/24 - Doggy Deal

Monday 26th August 2024

We think that we pick them 

But what if they pick us?

Looking at the humans 

To find just one they trust 

Then they look into your eyes

And wait for your face to smile

The deal is done - the dice thrown

Your new dog friend is coming home

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet 

22/08/2024 - The Wave of Grief

Wednesday 21st August 2024

You crept up behind me

Caught me unawares

Slipped into that moment

Like you really didn’t care 

I tried so hard not to listen

Not let those thoughts seep in

I bit my bottom lip so hard 

And tried to drown out your din

Round and round and round

You went 

Until my emotions were

All spent 

Then I found the release valve

And opened it right up 

The tears streamed down by cheeks

In my throat there was a lump

Grief you move silently

But are never far away

Reminding us of those we miss

Every single day 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet 

18/02/2024 - Never, never, never …..

Sunday 18th August 2024

Never let unkind words drip from your mouth

Never spread hatred and lies

Never envy what others have

Never want more than you need

Never judge others 

Never - 5 little letters 

5 little letters - such a big word

Never 

Hard isn’t it?

Never forget to be grateful

Never forget to say please and thank you

Never forget to spread happiness and joy

Never forget to smile at a stranger 

Never forget to be kind

Never forget to pay it forward

Never forget we have one life

One shot at it

Never overthink it 

Remember nobody ever gets it all right! 

Never be too hard on yourself! 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet 

17/08/2024 - Beans or No Beans

Saturday 17th August 2024

Sausages were cooked and bacon was fried

There were times when patience was definitely tried

Carol was manning the orders for toast 

A full cooked breakfast ordered by most

A few burnt toast “frisbees” were tossed now and then 

Carol just shrugged, smiled and said I will do that again 🤣

Mim flipped the eggs and kept everyone stable

Assisted by Margaret who was more than able 

Ruth kept the coffee and tea flowing freely 

Not too many orders at once - ideally…..

Paul had his hands in the sink all day

He’s booked himself a manicure - or so they say! 🤷🏻‍♀️😂

Beans or no beans was the shout of the morning

More bacon, more eggs poor Mim was calling

Helen and Jenny for dirty dishes went trawling

People reminiscing whilst old memories recalling

The ladies sold all sorts of goods and nice cakes 

Lots of lush goodies all lovingly baked.

And so it is that we say a huge thank you 

I’m off to get “no beans” as a tattoo 😂

Thank you to everyone who supported Carew Wesley’s breakfast fundraiser! Huge thank you to everyone who helped out - too many to mention! We could not have done it without them! 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet 

15/08/2024 - The Odd One Out

I push you gently in your place

You fell into the nearest space

Round and round and round you go

When it will stop, you just don’t know!

I reach inside to lift you out 

You were there, I have no doubt

No, I sweep my hand all around

Mmm that one odd sock - can’t be found 😂

Where do all the socks go……😂

Joanne C Hicks Pembrokeshire Poet copyright ©️ 

11/08/2024 - Beware The Written Word

Sunday 11th August 2024

Social media squirming, swirling and swarming

Making me paranoid - is that the truth you’re informing?

Every which way I look conspiracy stories being spun 

A few lines, a convincing photo and the lies have begun

Hatred being fuelled and people being cruel 

Words can be hurtful, aiming to divide and add fuel  

With A.I. peeping over the horizon - what is the truth?

What influence is this media having over our youth?

Then there is a glimmer of hope in the pit of darkness

A good deed is done and it softens the hardness

We must take a moment to reflect on our action 

And maybe not let social media become too big a distraction! 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet 

10/08/2024 - Love is never far away

Saturday 10th August 2024

Love is never far away

Even though you couldn’t stay

It’s always right in my heart 

Even though we are far apart

No day goes by without you here 

I always feel that you are near 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet 

09/08/2024 - How long is a piece of string….

Friday 9th August 2024

How do I know what to do and when 

If I don’t know how long my life will be …..

Don’t think about how long your life will be 

Think about how deep and meaningful you can make every day …….

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet 

05/08/2024 - Follow The Path

Monday 5th August 2024

She wandered along the path

Not sure if she was going the right way

Not sure if she’d been down this path before

She stopped - ran her fingers through the long green grass

She took a moment to look around her 

So many paths

So many choices

Could she ever pick the wrong path?

No - every path offered up a new experience 

Savour the paths you travel upon 

You are always on the right path 

But you can switch direction any time 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet

30/07/2024 - The forest in my mind

Tuesday 30th July 2024

I’m wandering through the forest 

The forest in my mind

Pushing back strong branches

To see what I may find

I delve a little deeper and move the leaves aside

Suddenly I find my pen on paper glides……

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet 

29/07/24 - Grow old gracefully

Monday 29th July 2024

Grow old with grace and decorum 

For it is a privilege denied to some

Accept and love who you are

A wrinkle is your battle scar 

Accept that we age and it is a gift 

You don’t need the tucks or a face lift

Grow old with passion and flair

There’s nothing wrong with self care

But we must appreciate every year we live 

It’s makes you older, wiser and with so much to give 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet (FB)

Check out my book. Eloquent available on Amazon 

24/07/2024 - Flow Joe Flow 🤷🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️

24/07/2024 Wednesday 

Sitting looking at a blank page 

Unable to get my brain to engage

Just one word, that’s all I need 

To start a creative juices feed 

But nothing is there 

The cupboard is bare

Some days it just flows

And that is all about it Joe 😂😂😂

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet (FB)

Find my collection of poems on Amazon. Eloquent 

22-07-2024 - Regrets - I have a few….

Don’t live a life full of regret

Creating memories doesn’t mean living in debt

Seize the day, the moment, the hour!

Your life is within your own power

Don’t look back and think if only 

For one day you may be old and lonely 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet

Find my book on Amazon - Eloquent 

17/07/2024 - Never-ending Life….

Wednesday 17th July 2024

If you could pop a pill that gave you eternal life

Would you take that offer and live forever more

It wouldn’t guarantee a life without any strife

But it would guarantee you won’t knock on deaths door

Would you want to live forever in an ever changing world

Getting up each day and juggling daily tasks

Would you want to live life slow or in a supersonic whirl 

A life never ending dividing up into different acts

Do you think you’d become wiser and learn the perfect ways

As time provided never ending rehearsals of what not to do

Would you no longer appreciate the minutes, hours or days 

Would eternal life influence your personal view 

I’d hate to live forever and just go on and on 

As much as I love life and feeling I belong

If I’ve got my health, family and my home

I will appreciate my time for however long!

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet

Find me on Facebook - Pembrokeshire Poet

Find my poetry book Eloquent on Amazon! 

14/07/2024 - Perfect Feathers

Sunday 14th July 2024

I saw a feather on the path and stopped to pick it up

I held it between my fingers, as my face just lit up

I felt sure it was a message sent from up above 

Cascading gentle downwards filled with hope and love

I twirled it round and round wondering what it meant

I pondered if this strand of softness was truly heaven sent 

I held it up above my head and it slowly danced to earth 

Maybe it was just a reminder to really know your worth 

So if you see a feather take a moment to reflect 

It’s a reminder that you, like a feather, are perfect 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet

Find me on Facebook - Pembrokeshire Poet 

08/07/2024 - April Showers?

Monday 8th July

Drip drip drip little April showers 

Falling in July, watering the flowers 

Drip drip drip little summer showers 

We’ve not seen the sun in hours 🙈😂

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet

05/07/2024 - Words Live On

Friday 5th July 2024

When I’m gone and I can no longer speak

My words will live on

Set down on a page

Forever and a day 

Never under estimate the power of the written word

Laid down in a moment 

There for a lifetime

And beyond…… maybe 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet

02-07-2024 - Lady Lou has new shoes…..

Tuesday 2 July 2024

My name is Lucy Lou 

And today ….. I got new shoes

They fit me like a glove

It really was instant love

A rich, deep, dark brown 

In contrast to my white crown 

My owner simply loves them 

Just like a precious gem

She raised her hands in the air

With a slight look of despair

She says that I’m causing quite a stink

In my new muds shoes I give her a wink

The look of love is in her eyes

She’s saying my name - while she cries 😂

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet

30/06/2024 - Stairway To Heaven

 Sunday 30th June 

I stand with my foot upon the stair

That appears to lead nowhere

I stop for a moment, up on my tiptoes

Suddenly heaven seems ever so close

I tentatively take another step 

I remember how when you left, I wept

I look up above me with a heart full of hope

Suddenly it’s as if I’m balancing on a tightrope

Before me lies the vehicle of my dreams 

A stairway to heaven - or so it seems

I close my eyes and feel you all around me 

Transported up and now I’ve turned the key

And now in this moment it’s just you and me

I slip my hand in yours - yes it is just you and me 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet 

24/06/2024 - Flying High

There you fly way up high

Dancing through the clouds and sky

It must be quiet up in that zone

Soaring around all alone 

I sit and look as you swoop and sway

I wonder if I too could fly one day 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet 

20/06/2024 - Houdini at it again!

Thursday 20th June 2024

Gampi is home my grandson shouts

He runs to the gate but let’s Benji out

I have to give chase right away 

Benji thinks - oh yes - let's play

He is gone like a rocket down the road

I’m getting on and I’ve definitely slowed 

I can’t keep up so I can only yell

“Benji come back” - man this is hell

Then my saviour appears

A couple walking a dog are near

He grabs Houdini by his collar 

Phew - thank you is all I can holler 

Out of breath I grab my prize 

Oh this dog - my patience he tries! 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet 

18/06/2024 - Bouncy Benji

Tuesday 18th June

Get a dog they said - it will be fun 

A cute little puppy, that’s how it begun

Now I’m forever saying “I’m so sorry!”

As we race by as fast as a Ferrari

My arms like spaghetti as I cling to his lead

Benji bouncing along and willing to be freed

He sees a squirrel and up he goes

Climbing that tree on his doggy tiptoes

He walks along singing his barky song 

Nobody hangs around us for too long 

So I must apologise for my Benji Boo

But if I didn’t have him - what would I do 😂

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet

16/06/2024 - Election Fever

Sunday 16th June

I’ve got a terrible earache

It’s pecking in my head

It’s there from the morning

Til I go to bed 

It’s got a special name 

The doctor told me so

It’s called election fever

What a terrible blow

Apparently it lasts for weeks 

And the air gets really hot

As all of the politicians

Wheel out their big shots

The window has been opened 

Now truth can float away 

Can we really 

Believe a word they say 🤔

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet

16/03/2024 - Pembrokeshire Poet Was Born

Sunday 16th June

I wish someone had said to me 

When I was a little girl

You have a gift for writing

And poetry could be your pearl

I never really thought about

Putting pen to paper 

I was too busy 

Having a good caper

There was a teacher in my primary school

Mrs Davies and she was cool

I saw her when I was all grown up 

And she said I was no fool

She told me how she’d loved my stories

How my imagination had run riot 

I listened to her politely

But I still remained quite quiet

Then many, many years later 

I penned a silly poem 

It seemed that people liked it

So perhaps I’m not so dumb 😂

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet

13/06/2024 - The Fragility Of Life ❤️

Thursday 13th June

Life is so fragile- like a fine bone china cup 

One minute you are a young, like an excited pup 

The years roll by and you’ve not a care in the world

Life wrapped up with so many memories they swirl

You wake each day and make plans for the future 

Wishing and willing our retirement to come sooner

Sometimes life’s a battle of hard work and strife 

We have a great faith that we will live a long life

But we will always have tomorrow to do the things we want 

We almost become completely nonchalant 

Then out of the blue your life’s turned upside down 

Suddenly there is no way to turn it all around

As fragile as that cup that holds your daily tea

The future is never promised to you or to me 

So never take for granted the day you have been gifted 

Be thankful that you are here and that you have existed 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet 

Love sweet love

 What the world needs now is love sweet love 

If you can spread anything 

Spread love

Spread joy

Spread kindness

Spread compassion

There’s too much hatred in the world. Life is too short for negative energies. Don’t like someone - be polite - move on, don’t hang on to past negative experiences - there’s only one place to look - forwards! 

What that world needs now is love sweet love 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet 

12/06/2024 - Just Be You!

Wednesday 12th June 2024

Who decided double denim was a no no?

Who was it who said that is a no go?

What does it matter what I wear?

Why should anyone else care?

Why can’t we all just wear what we want 

And go around oh so nonchalant 

Why do we all feel the need to conform?

If we don’t follow the rules then we are not the norm!

I say do what you want and wear what you please 

After all who appointed anyone to be fashion police! 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet

11/06/2024 - The gift of sight

Tuesday 11/06/2024 

What a scary world it must be

To be blind - you cannot see

I can’t imagine what it’s like 

To not have the gift of sight 

To never see a bird 

Take flight upon its wings

To only be able to hear 

The song it beautifully sings

To never watch the waves

Crash upon the shore

Imagining the water washing 

Over that golden, sandy floor

To never see the views 

That rolls out over our lands 

To watch tall, green trees swaying

On a landscape they command 

So take a moment - stop and look

At what surrounds your current view 

Perhaps you may appreciate 

That view through eyes anew 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 11/06/2024 

Stay Here With Me

I wish I could take away your pain

I know that my prayers are in vain

I reach out and touch your hand 

“Close your eyes” I gently whisper 

Let me take you where things glitter

Let your mind drift across the universe

Forget about the illness you’ve been cursed

Let’s float amongst the moon and stars 

In our imagination we can go far 

Let our bodies just melt away

As if there is no night or day

Let wondrous things into your mind 

Go to a place that makes you spellbound 

I wish that you could stay here with me 

And we could laugh in the wind, sun and sea

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ 14/9/23

05/06/2024 - Simply Grow!

Wednesday 5th June

Don’t ever deny who you are 

Don’t ever set a really low bar

You can always achieve more than you know

Every day is a gift for you to simply grow! 

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet

03/06/2024 - Rob Burrow

Wednesday 3 June 2024

You don’t have to live a long life

To live a good life

To live a life full of impact

To live a life that brings change

To live a life that inspires others

To live a full life

To live life with a smile on your face 

Rest in peace Rob Burrow  26/09/1982 - 02/06/2024

He made his “dash” really count ❤️😢

Joanne C Hicks copyright ©️ Pembrokeshire Poet