this is…

this is my hood
where concrete meets the sky
neon lights twinkle
humanity in your face
born here, loved here, die here

photo: Genie Nakano, 1998

I was born in East L.A., Boyle Heights, CA USA

in the Japanese American Hospital, May 15, 1948.  Racists in America often refused to care or treat Japanese Americans, so we built our own hospital in Boyle Heights on a hill. I don't remember being born but when I went back as a teen, I remember the sweet care I received. I'll never forget it.
       I spent the next 8 years living in projects, Aliso Village, Ramona Village in East Los Angeles then on to two different Long Beach Navy projects. 
       I feel sorry for anyone who didn't get to live in the projects. It was a lot of fun. There were always kids to play with. The one on Williams street had swings, jungle bars and enough room for hopscotch and marbles on the grass.

Nike

Photo by Genie Nakano: Nike my Cat, died: 10/24/16

black cat
departs on a breeze
she left behind
scenes from another life
forest of tall trees

Nike

Bodhi dog
sits next to Nike cat
he licks her face
paws at her bed, moans
she is passing

each day weaker
she can hardly walk or stand
death never gets
any easier
no matter how hard I try

her tiny body
relaxed into my arms
not a whimper
not a cry
gently, gently, gone

Nike died, Oct. 24, 2016, 21 years old

Gentle Yoga Floor Stretches

Introducing my darling nieces and nephew -- Elizabeth Miki Nakano and Koen Sho Nakano. They brighten my life and I'm sure will add sunshine to yours.
These yoga stretches relieve stress, soften and strengthen back and core muscles. Get a stretch belt, put on comfortable clothing and join us in Gentle Yoga.

Hey there

You there,
take this gloom away
the sky is supposed 
to be blue, not grey

a dismal 
disappointing day
the social-distancing 
party cancelled
the host is sick
her stomach hurts
then next, the tearful news
my veterinarian
can't fix Toto 
anymore

You there, 
heal my dog Toto
he's been my friend 
for seventeen years
he has the right to live 
as long as me

the price we pay
for precious loyalty 
and unconditional love
       quickly robbed away


true love is so sweet
         true love doesn't last
                  true love breaks your heart