Hanne Hartmann Phipps

Reeds Spring, Missouri, USA

My husband, Jim, and I are happily married, and retired in the S/W Ozarks, where we have lived since 1987. We have 2 dogs (Bogart, an abandoned mutt and Murphy, a 7 pound Poodle) and King Tux, a 12 pound "killer" cat. Our interests include fishing, gardening, arts, crafts, and writing. I do some of Jim's stained glass designing as well as my own art forms. He is an award-winning stained glass artist. We are also both environmentally "involved". I have had many of my editorials printed in the news media, and one was read on the floor of the Missouri State Senate. I am also fond of dabbling in interior decorating and landscape design. My personal philosophy is to be the best that I can be in all that I undertake, and to voice my concern when our environment is being abused.

Mother At 80

She knows too well how age can disappoint the lovely dreams
of youth.
How once bright and delicate beauty has faded in the mirror
of truth.
The unfulfilled yearnings of so long ago are now mere
memories tucked into the corner of her mind.
And, as she reflects on how quickly life has passed her by,
it's clear that fate has not always been kind.
She's tired of fighting with the emotions of inner strife,
and hopes death will be a soft whisper as she nears the
end of her life.

My Husband - My Love

Feelings that were true and deep
awoke my heart from its innocent sleep.
How enchanting it was to find a love
so very dear to keep.
Because of you, my soul has soared
to love's golden throne,
and, I will always yearn for you, and
you alone.
Without you, there would be no
sunshine or laughter.
My life would be incomplete and sad
ever-after.
The song in my heart would have an empty,
meaningless tone,
for, I love but you, and you alone.

Pleasures

We look high and low for life's material treasures,
While overlooking some of everyday's simple pleasures.
So much of life goes by without personal reward,
Because we fail to look inward instead of toward.
Fulfillment of dreams is a fleeting goal,
That can only be found by searching deeply into one's own soul.
So enjoy the simple daily pleasures,
And, you will reap the greatest of life's treasures.