Christine Imhoff  

Born in Harvey, Illinois, I’ve lived on each coast and returned to the Midwest twice. At age 10 I began writing a chapter book that remains unfinished. Living in Evanston, Rogers Park or Lakeview most of my adulthood, the lake and the city streets have been my stomping grounds. The water, wind and birds informed my flute playing, and occasional poetry over the years. Writing has become my primary form of expression as injuries affected my ability to play the flute. I currently reside in south Evanston with my family and work full time in accounting. In the last few years, I’ve delved back into longer pieces of creative writing.

My thrashing thoughts are the blustery wind 

accompanying our walk.

Our synchronized steps calm the dull throb 

in my side but not the brain pain.

My mind wanders through the mud.

Anchored by the leash, we turn from tree lined streets 

onto the main drag.

The vibrancy does not penetrate the

Murkiness of to-dos not done.

Of concerns fears future fails.

My canine companion slows

to sniff the entrance of the local pottery studio.

My attention is caught - a door

Not yet approached on this familiar walk.

I pause too.

 Looking down at the fall planting

 that reaches to my waist,

A delicate kale plants a seed in my mind.

The central green pink cradle of leaves

offers up space for a soft bubble 

Of water

That glistens and clears the world within,

 and for a moment,

The world around.