Deb Upstill

Deb Upstill is a participant in Poetic Portraits, an intergenerational creative project to showcase the creative talent and diverse life experiences of different generations in Monash.

Deb Upstill is a spontaneous, enthusiastic, unpredictable writer of rhyming verse.

Special knitted and hand sewn items often inspire or result from her poems for family and friends. She has recited a poem at a wedding reception and a 50th birthday party.

Deb enjoys meeting people and helping others and has had the privilege of participating in a range of volunteer activities. At 73, may her creativity continue to thrive, fulfil ... and surprise!

GRACE

'twas my first time in an op shop – I hadn't PLANNED to buy when this smallish fairy ornament did stand out, catch my eye.

I picked her up. I noticed she was missing her left hand then headed for the counter .... she was MINE and she was GRAND.

Her smile was so infectious, full of hope, resilience, fun .... I took her home, placed her on the kitchen windowsill in the sun.

She cheers me doing dishes, her smile does boost my soul .... encourages me to try new things and set myself new goals.

I called her Grace, made her a bag with ‘G’ for gratitude 'cos that's just what she does for me, the vibes that she exudes.

I attached her to my knitted heart, 'cos that's where ALL my poems start.

THANKS, Grace.

                 You're ACE!

The Home Straight

I'm here, three score and ten plus three but still have drive, some oomph in me .... grey hair, wrinkles I won't hide (it's not ‘the cover’ but what's inside) .... been blessed, so far, I have to say, inspired to forge my path MY way.

My dash, extending with each year, I plan to fill with goals and cheer so, here's my list I TRUST will provide a healthier, longer, brighter ride!

* Be your true self, come what may, surround yourself with an array of positive people, varied, kind to keep you in good frame of mind.

* Soak up nature, take pleasant walks .... share smiles with others, stop for talks.

* Don't let bad news spoil your mood and always express gratitude.

* Be caring, patient, lend your ear to those who have become so dear (and others).

* Accept your limitations when your body shouts, ‘I'M DONE’ then find another outlet for less energetic fun!

* and FINALLY, this mantra, mine to give:

LISTEN, LEARN, LAUGH

… LOVE and LIVE!

I'm three score and ten plus almost four ....

… must dash,

I've lots left to explore.

CHEERS!