Memories and Poems by Jack Alguard
You won’t find this book on Amazon. It was written by my Grandfather and self-published for the enjoyment of our family. But one of the biggest stories from the book is available online: La Paloma.
I have been lucky that both my Grandfather and Grandmother on my Father’s side have chosen to write about their lives. My Grandmother’s book was more personal. She lived a domestic life and her family was always her biggest interest. My Grandfather has always been a nature lover, feeling most at home in the outdoors. Many of his stories and poems are about his experiences communing with nature. He also wrote poems about his loved ones. His poem, Remembering Mark on His 44th, written to my Father on his birthday, is my favorite.
So, little boy anomaly–
Leader of the pack
And stripper of green apple trees
You, the non-sleeper, teaser,
And patio ice-rink builder,
You are now too old to enjoy
Being Rudolph in the Christmas play.
Yet, you’re still a nailer-of-nails,
Thinker, doer, and self starter
A house builder, though not on beach stilts.
Do you still not sleep unless held down
Eyes wide with plans for infinity?
Dear enjoyer of what’s at hand
And non-complainer,
At forty-four you’re not too old
For us to wish you all our love.