Seven years

A few more months,

 and I reach an anniversary.

I will have been here for seven years.

Somehow,

 the powers that be still haven't kicked me out.

This has given me a chance.

I have friends who have changed their names more than once.

I have learned new forms of writing,

 ones I quickly ignore.

   They are still fun to try.

Some have passed away.

  Yes.

    It hurts.

Such is life.

I miss the Garden.

Rambling again.

During this time,

 I have traveled the world.

Your words have let me walk beside you.

Sometimes we create our own little worlds,

 those we share.

Not to say there are no dark spots.

 Some are simply a******s.

I admit I have went off a few times.

 At least once,

    and I still feel bad.

Now,

  I can't list all of the names,

     especially with the changes,

       but all of you have helped me.

Now,

 you have to suffer the consequences.

You used to only have to deal with a few lines of drivel!

Reviews

[Gee]

I think my time here only 4 years but wouldn't swap a day of them. Not being great at reviewing I often read work posted and then all of the reviews too, might learn something. I like your recollections, thoughts, honesty, and hope you stay for many years to come.
Ramble on Jon, ramble on.

[Jon Roggie]

The reviews can be interesting. I usually write short little bits, but I have had some take the meaning beyond anything I was thinking at the moment. The thing is I could see their point. They added meaning. Coyote likes to say "Just words."
I stick to my rambles.

[barleygirl]

I have experienced all this, even tho my tenure here is a mere 2-1/2 years! I love the way you're so blunt in your observations, not meant to slam anyone, always willing to admit to your own foibles, too. I hate when people change their "handles" becuz sometimes I don't catch on for months, thinking they've gone. I don't know what "The Garden" is!?!?! There are many spots here that I don't explore (my bandwidth is wimpy) . . . but for simple reading & reviewing, this is my spot to be! *smile* You have written about the café in an original way & congrats on getting to the 7-year itch! (((HUGS))) Fondly, Margie

[Jon Roggie]

The Garden is a fond memory. It wasn't really a site. One poet noticed me in my early days, and pointed me out to a friend. I finally caught a conversation between them. It was in the comments. They were joking between themselves. One was called flutterby, and the other fairy. They were trying to decide on a name for me. I joined in, and this is how I became the tortoise. Over a few years, I had my shell painted, gave rides around the Garden, and was often tempted with strawberries,some of which were fermented. It was a place we could have fun, and it was in plain sight. One of the writers has passed away, and the other has moved along. I miss both of them.

[barleygirl]

WOW! Amazing share! Thanks for that! *smile*

[Gypsy Warrior Queen]

I think I have been here around ten yrs... I cant remember I have lost count ...most of the time it feels like only months until someone reminds me differently. I love your recollection and your thanks and how true your words and world are. Sometimes this place is my lifesaver and sometimes its my Ill be damned! Art in any form needs an audience and for those of us with other lives this is a magical place in any form full of awaiting buyers. Thank you for your words and some new thoughts worth a look!

[Jon Roggie]

I must admit it. This is the best review I have ever received. I can only try to add a few more words.
I prefer to ignore the games played here.
I simply want to write.
I also get to read some great stuff!
Thank you Queenie.
I feel honored you stopped by!