Not on Time...But in Rhyme!

I’m reminded of the boring nights when I filled my time

Writing notes and letters in rhyme.

I thought it would be fun putting problems in prose

When at other times it would get up my nose.

And what better way to keep the brain

Alert and tweaked and better sane.





I once wrote a page, or two in rhyme

About my uniform, issued that day,

Just in time to wear it, to the USA.

I found my box with name and rank

Near the top of the pile,

You see Copley begins with C

Under Arkwright and Bennett, but on top of D.





Was I to strut the office with chest puffed with pride?

My body transformed by finely cut cloth

Or would I be a figure of fun?

“Does my bum look big?” Forgive the pun!

I was now standing there for all to scoff.





So, my uniform prose ranted on for a while

About fitting and size let alone the style.

It went like this… a snippet for you





“Was it a thirty-six short, or a forty-two long?

It was measured for sure so it couldn’t be wrong

When buttoned I could hide a size 8 Cabin Crew

In the space inside… just in case I grew?

But my sleeves were adorned with my four stripes of pride

Serving to give me a warm feeling inside

Perfect I thought, at least these aren’t wrong

Until I noticed one sleeve was too long

And alas on inspection there’s a vacant blue scene

Where once I knew a button had been”

etc.







I think it’s now stashed in the loft

Along with two others, of memories aloft.

Hanging around, now three sizes too large

Tucked in the corner for no one to see

But who knows for certain where it might be?

In the dark no doubt with my ‘travellers toot’,

You know, the stuff you bring home from a trip

Only to find there’s no place for it.

Chinese fans that looked great in Kowloon…

But at three foot wide can take over a room!

So it’s up in the loft where the memories go

The bad silk shirts and stuff for the boys

Travellers trophies and those must have toys.



You bored yet?



There’s more to come if you can keep up the pace

Of birthdays done and body scans won…well sort of!

My 50th went well… so I’m told.

Dancers danced and beer monsters ruled

Chocolate fountained, with excellent food.

White haired and sober (I know, it’s a shame)

I had a great time seeing you all again.

So let’s keep in touch, 34 years is too long

My diary’s empty for wine, women and song!

And…

My health is good… thanks for waiting this long.



A Festive wish:





May your Christmas bring you your wishes.

Good Health and Happiness to you all.

Merry Christmas Everyone



Richard