Heritage Day: Tongues of Their Mothers

I had so many ideas for a Heritage Day post today, but then I fell in love with a poem, and that made the decision for me. Happy Heritage Day, readers. Following are a few photos of some beautiful South African ladies I know (and one lovely South African man) wearing traditional garments to celebrate … More Heritage Day: Tongues of Their Mothers

What Will You Say to Phillippa Yaa de Villiers?

Welcome to September Book Club! I’m so excited to share the work of award-winning South African author, Phillippa Yaa de Villiers. Please read either Everyday Wife, or Taller Than Buildings, and submit your questions and comments by Wednesday, 16 September. I know my featured readers in the states are already either finished or in the … More What Will You Say to Phillippa Yaa de Villiers?

An Old Fisherman in Mozambique and Glória de Sant’Anna

I just wanted to share a few photographs from our recent Mozambique travels, along with this poem, by a beautiful writer I only learned about today. Her name is Glória de Sant’Anna.  I want to thank Luis R. Mitras, who works for the European Division of the University of Maryland University College, for his beautiful … More An Old Fisherman in Mozambique and Glória de Sant’Anna

Squabs and the Strange Poets Who Write About Them

WTF is a “squab?” Who even knows such a thing, and worse…who writes about it? Do YOU know? A “squab” is: a) Traveling Marla b) a baby bird c) a cushiony place for your butt d) All of the above Did you guess (d) All of the above? Ding ding ding! You’re correct. A “squab” … More Squabs and the Strange Poets Who Write About Them

A Poem for Jeep People and a Poem for People Who Hate Jeeps

Our poor “Henk,” the Yank Tank, won’t be joining us for our first 4×4 trip out of South Africa to Mozambique. He is having a little problem going into gear, and his engine light says he needs a little TLC. I get tired of people asking me why we stick with this “Madala Jeep.” (“Madala” … More A Poem for Jeep People and a Poem for People Who Hate Jeeps

Langston Hughes and The Salsa Poet…

Oh that Langston Hughes. The first poem I ever read of his was “Let America be America Again,” and I have used it as a gauge to check my own privilege when I become complacent. So I was excited that when I called for favorite poems on April 1st, The Salsa Poet was quick to … More Langston Hughes and The Salsa Poet…