Thank You c/o '95

I wanted to take a moment to say "Thank You" to my Class of 1995 for acknowledging me for my accomplishments with my book(s) of poetry. Originally, I stated that I didn't want to recite a poem, but as soon as my name was mentioned it felt like the right thing to do. It felt great being in front of my friends. Most of the people in that room I have known for majority of my life. I started elementary school and even daycare with some folks. I truly enjoyed and appreciated everyone that showed up and those that traveled from afar to gather together after 15 years of separation. It would have been nice if more of our local classmates came out. I'm sure some had their reasons while others won't support anything ever in their lives. Again, I haven't smiled, laughed, and enjoyed myself they way I did this past weekend in a long time. I can't wait to do it again. To the historical 1st freshman class at Asheville High School. I love you all.

"Brown Gold"

This is an older poem that I wrote. It is found in my 1st book of poetry "Often Thoughts"

New Adventure

A week ago I decided to entertain the kid in me and buy a scooter. I found a guy on craigslist who bought it 3months ago. He was selling it for $500 or would trade a guitar. I negotiated and got him to trade the scooter for $300 and my guitar. I got the scooter home and took it on a spin the next day. I found it relaxing to be out on the streets alone.I get to clear my find and worries do not exists when I'm out and about. This may sound silly but it's true with me. I've always wanted a scooter or moped every since I was small and my dad had a small yellow one at his house. When I had my 1st job at 15yrs old I purchased a Tomas moped that I needed to pedal. My friends and I would ride from back and forth through West Asheville. Ahhhh the joy of the wind. I feel like a kid again.

New Tattoo

This is my new tattoo. The bird is symbolic of several things. It is a representation of freedom. Freedom from living stagnant. It's time to soar and release myself from being lazy and content. Easily I can sit back and say that I wrote 2 books of poetry and feel a sense of accomplishment. I feel like I still haven't scratched the surface of the iceberg. It's time for me to take flight so I can look back at all I've done...just like my tattoo.


The flight of this bird also is my depiction of the heavenly journey my 3 grandmothers took in 2001. The bird is looking back to show how they are still looking back at me and watching over everything they had to leave behind.

I appreciate this gift that Miya gave me. At 1st I wanted a typical and basic bird, but I realized that my journey has been and will be far from typical and basic . I ended up agreeing with Miya's idea and we matched my bird to the abstract bird image that he has tattoo'd on his neck. I do believe the matching my tattoo to his adds to the bond that I have with my brother.

Tonight I'm going to toast to a great tattoo from my brother, the memories and guidance or my beloved grandmothers, and my journey.

Breath-Taking

I can't remember the last time I've heard a song so beautiful. It has definite;y inspired me to write a poem that mirrors the emotions I felt when listened to this. Please take a second to appreciate "For All We Know" by Donny Hathaway

Father's Day 2010 was a success. Special thanks to Kim for make it all happen and calling my family for a nice dinner. She even gave me some art supplies so I can begin this journey of dream-chasing and creating something new. Even though it was a day for fathers it seemed like the newest edition to the family got all the attention (5month old Jacolby Streeter). He's a little bundle of smiles and slobber. I really enjoyed celebrating with my little brother Colby on his 1st Father's Day. I missed my big brother Miya being there, but we'll be able to hang out soon enough. thanks for the ton of text messages I woke up to. My sons are funny though. My 14yr old didn't come in until 5pm from playing outside to acknowledge me. My 15yr old needed to be reminded to acknowledge me. My 17yr old sent a text rather than a call. I hope this is just a dumb teen thing. I tried not to take it personal. Nevertheless, I truly enjoyed my day and my family. Thanks Kim, Mom, and Nikki for making it happen. Love you all.

Mini Me

I just wanted to take a moment and acknowledge my 14yr son. He did exceptional 8th grade year. He took honor classes, had an A-B average, played basketball and baseball, and prides hisself on bing a "ladies man". (He has 'McLovin' written on his wall in his room. In the picture above I was taking him to the 8th grade end of year dance. I watched him get ready, spied on him while he practiced his danc moves and facial expressions. He reminds me of myself in so many ways. I think he's more cocky than I was whn I was in the 8th grade. So with all that, I want to give a big shout out to my youngest son Tyrell Bailey for all of his successes and accomplishments.