Comment from 24chas

Excellent

This was a great write. It's amazing and wonderful that you remember all of the details behind that photo. And how devastating it must have been to lose your brother at so young an age. Great write.

 Comment Written 28-Apr-2019

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reply by the author on 28-Apr-2019

Photos are great as reminders. I take lots of pix myself and they are my visual diary; I remember my life through them rather than keeping a journal or diary. My childhood memories are quite sharp, as is my sense of loss. I remember that Terry's funeral was on 23rd December. I was not allowed to go (no young kids at funerals back in 1963) and the cloud of despond wrecked Christmases for ever after. Even now, I can't feel jubilant around then.

Comment from Rachelle Allen

Excellent

I love everything about this poem - the rhyme, the cadence, the essence of its words. I also just love the photo - SUCH happiness coming right at me!! I'm so sorry to read of your beloved Terry's death. How unfair and devastating. I'm sending you a warm hug today. Thank you for sharing this wonderful vignette from your childhood. It added such warmth to my day. Good luck in the contest. xo

 Comment Written 28-Apr-2019

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reply by the author on 28-Apr-2019

Thanks so much Rachelle, I really appreciate your kind thoughts and positive wishes.

reply by Rachelle Allen on 28-Apr-2019

You are so very welcome. xo

Comment from Sandra Montanino

Excellent

Wow, this is a really powerful and a thought-provoking poem. It is very beautifully written. The last two lines were especially poignant and it's true, those days are gone beyond our reach. So well put. You'll do well in the contest!!

 Comment Written 28-Apr-2019

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reply by the author on 28-Apr-2019

Thanks for reviewing Sandra. Happy days indeed back then. xx

Comment from L. A. Stanley

Excellent

Sweet poem, picture, and story. Your words flowed really well and I "saw" the fun your family had at the beach that day. I also love your title. Well done!

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 Comment Written 28-Apr-2019

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reply by the author on 28-Apr-2019

Thanks for reviewing. Fun times indeed. The innocence of youth.

Comment from Dolly'sPoems

Excellent

There is so much joy in this photograph and your words, your Mum and Dad so proud of their children and looking after you a pleasure. Your words are oozing with love and happiness, a great read, a brilliant entry for the contest, love Dolly x

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 Comment Written 28-Apr-2019

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reply by the author on 28-Apr-2019

Thanks Dolly. Yes, it was a lovely time for the first 10 years before Terry died and Mum died 5 years later.