What an undeniable pleasure it is to travel in the footsteps of this wonderful poet. In sharing his sense of place we also share his passion and love amid relentless optimism. Crafted with such dignity this work is born of intuitive insight that brings it home. Walking the walk of human endeavor, always sharing, always touching our hearts. Never faulting in displaying a capacity to invoke empathy. Rich in emotion, wrapped around the human spirit and all laid bare in the Wake of the Desert Belle. It is a journey you will never tire of traveling. - Alan Halford, poet, writer Dublin, Ireland

Introduction from the author -

There was a time last year when I considered moving from Arizona. My exodus from the desert was not to be yet many of the poems herein contain the theme of leaving. However my journeys of fatherhood did lead me to being a grandfather. The year began with a full house; daughter, grandson, two dogs with visits from my ex to help out. By July the house was disturbingly quiet. I had traveled from full nest to empty nest in the blink of an eye.

We are always sailing to other horizons. Sometimes we sail to uncharted territory. Sometimes we visit familiar ports. Helping care for my grandson brought back memories of my daughters' first days on Earth. If you live long enough, things come around again. I hope these poems bring you in touch with your departures and arrivals.