poem

H-E-B

The Texas-based grocery store chain and its unique offerings was the inspiration for today’s Typewriter Rodeo.

Hail in Texas

Spring weather in Texas can mean damaging hail. That was the inspiration for this week’s Typewriter Rodeo on the Texas Standard.

Statewide Ban

The Texas legislature is considering a statewide ban on texting while driving. That was the inspiration for this week’s Typewriter Rodeo poem for the Texas Standard.

St. Patrick’s Day

Grab your green beer and your friends to enjoy this St. Patrick’s Day-inspired poem by the Typewriter Rodeo.

Waiting for Spring

There comes a time of the year when spring just can’t come fast enough. That was the inspiration for this week’s Typewriter Rodeo.

Haunted House

Some people believe in ghosts, others stand their ground and say they don’t exist. And some don’t quite believe in ghosts – but cautiously respect them when the lights go out at night. No matter what kind of (non)believer you are, we can all agree that spooky clowns are worse.

Capital Bar Conversations

Work at the Texas State Capitol building can get contentious. Partisan disputes and back-hallway wheeling and dealing can leave one feeling a little exhausted at the end of the day — or whenever the lege wraps up. Sometimes what you need is a visit to the bar down the street.

My Bicycle is My Horse

Many folks assume all Texans ride horses – and sure, some of us do. But a special kind of horse, the two-wheeled breed, is much more common on the streets around here.

Cedar Fever

We knew it was coming. The endless waves of pollen, the sleepless nights, wasted days. We call it cedar fever even though it’s really the juniper’s fault. No matter what you name it, it’ll stop you in your tracks. Can you pass the tissues?

Transition

Inauguration Day is here, and that means change. We don’t know what’s next – but we rarely ever do. Whether you cheered or not, tomorrow is a new day, with new problems, new ideas, and new ways to be a part of your community.

Threatening To Leave The Country

When elections don’t go your way, you might be tempted to seek out a change of scenery, perhaps a change of citizenship. But it’s important to remember that you are what makes this country so special. So put down your visa application and look around – this can still be your home.

Fake News

Did you hear the latest? Did you see that Tweet? They’re talking about it on cable news. We’re all getting a free car tomorrow!

Oh wait, maybe not.

So Long, 2016

Well, the year is finally coming to a close, and it’s time to celebrate a new trip around the sun. There were bad times, and… good times…?

But 2016 is over and that’s all there is to say.

Holiday Half-Craft

Some people do their holiday shopping all year long, others wait until the last minute. With online shopping and fast delivery, it’s easier than ever to take care of everyone on your list without leaving your couch. But a brave few are determined to make gifts, with their DIY skills and eye for detail.

(But online shopping is a nice backup for those of us who can’t draw a straight line.)

A Rhapsody in NOG

It’s that time again – time to pull out the yule log, unwrap a candy cane, spin the dreidel and pour yourself a cup of nog. The creamy holiday treat is what inspired Typewriter Rodeo’s David Fruchter to write this week’s poem.

Willie Nelson

It’s a common misconception that all Texans love country music. Sure, a lot of us do but you’ll find plenty of Texans that just don’t care for it.

Unless it’s Willie Nelson. We all love Willie.

Electric Socks

As it gets cooler outside, everyone starts pulling out their “winter” clothes – for the few weeks of the year when layers aren’t just a fashion statement and the wind hits your face a little harder in the morning. Of course, there’s sweaters and jackets and scarfs, but you shouldn’t forget a good pair of socks to stay warm. Today’s poem is dedicated to a special kind of sock, for the end of the day when you curl up with a mug of hot chocolate.

Tortillas

Any Texpat can give you a list of things they miss about the Lone Star State. The weather, the football, the music – and near the top of many of these homesick lists: the food. Specifically, a good tortilla. Whether you prefer tacos, fajitas or burritos, there’s just nothing like a great tortilla.

My Dog Stinks

Man’s Best Friend. The family pet. Hunting companion. Support animal. Texans have dogs for all sorts of reasons, in all sorts of shapes and sizes. But anyone who has ever spent time around a big smelly dog knows that it’s not all rainbows and games of fetch – sometimes, dogs just stink.

Unity

It’s been a long year and a long week, no matter how you voted on Election Day. We are all tired, and starting to look towards the future. It’s worth remembering that even though we may have different points of view – in the end, we are all humans.