Randy's Rhymes

An illustrated, stylized open book tilted upward so the pages are easily readable, with the text 'some ifs, ands or buts ...' printed in large, clear, readable letters on the pages. A slightly oversized quill pen is hovering and writing on the book by itself (no hand, no inkwell). The background is light and uncluttered. Overall, the look is creative and non-realistic, focusing on clarity and legibility.

About Randy

A freckle-faced scholar with high ideals and low finances, I set out to leave my mark on the world. That little thing called life rudely got in the way, and derailed whatever feeble plans I may have had. Then words started pulsing, intense and pretentious, in my head. Some of those words even began to resonate.

It seemed very necessary to write these poems. I did pour my heart and soul into them, but they took on a mind of their own. They evolved into this crazy quilt of observations and emotions. Just some ifs, ands or buts that formed the soundtrack of my life (and who knows, maybe I’m a one-hit wonder poet).

Eventually, I managed to write poems about events and circumstances involving matters other than myself. I still have fresh ideas and pop one out on occasion. Rather than let these thoughts die in my desk drawer, I felt I should share them. I hope they pique your interest or tickle your fancy.

Mugshots

Deeper Dive

My name is Randy Donahue. I’m an Army brat, born in San Angelo, Texas, in 1957. I was soon transferred to Ft. Belvoir, Virginia, Governor’s Island in the New York Harbor, Portland then Plainville, Connecticut and eventually, Charles County, Maryland. I attended the University of Maryland, but my thirst for knowledge was quenched more by beers than books; so that didn’t pan out. I moved to San Diego, California, and I did love it there; but those plans hit a roadblock, too. Reluctantly, I returned to Chuck County, where I still live.

I’ve built houses, delivered drugs and newspapers, sold vacuum cleaners, installed subway tracks, worked maintenance at a gyroscope factory and even mopped floors to put food on the table and gas in the tank. For 38 years I was an electrician and foreman in Washington, D.C., building museums, theaters, hospitals and hotels (and of course, law offices). It was interesting and rewarding work, but often performed under extreme conditions. I miss all the guys. The work not so much.

I am retired now and enjoy playing the ponies and listening to music and going to shows. I don’t enjoy it as much as I should, though, because my wife, Paula, died while we were on a cruise. I miss her a bunch. I have two grown children who I love dearly, Audrey (who still talks to me) and Jesse (who does not).