Antoinette Mazzola Vista, California

I come from a family of military men. My father was buried with military honors. His grandfather was appointed general to the army of King Poniatowski. In those days one had to be a blood relative to the King. Then came a time when he and his sister Anastasia had to flee to America because of the Czar's takeover of part of Poland where they lived. I sang in a church choir and took piano lessons, and voice lessons. Later, I sang with a band. I also took part in Carmen and Operettes. I later got married and settled down to painting. I had some of my pictures on exhibit. Some nights when I could not sleep I would write poetry. Many nights, many poems.

Concerts In The Park When I was a child, I still remember The band concerts well, from June to September. And how we would meet On Genesee street And walk to the park and assemble. To listen to the band It sounded so grand. We would sit on the ground till the sun went down. Then some started dancing, and others romancing. Oh, how well I remember.

Memories I stand by the window with tears in my eyes, And what I see makes me realize How fast time goes by, when just yesterday My own little girl was at play. There they were playing games with each other. My little girl and her friend and a brother. Selling lemonade was so much fun, Having their picnics on the lawn. Oh how I'd love to relive those days. Now those children have gone their way. One is a lawyer and father of four, Another a clerk in a grocery store. Two are in business and parents of one, and one of her friends became a nun. Yes they grew up and left their home. Now we are all alone.

All poems Copyright © 1996 Antoinette Mazzola. All rights reserved.