The Street Where Dad Lives

For my father

My parent’s house is between Australia’s largest lake and Stoney Creek. Visiting was different since Mum passed away.

Walking by the water along the street where Dad lives was always good. Ten different bird species flew past, smooth kayaks and bright boats still bobbed on their moorings as they had for twenty-five years. But it was quieter, more contemplative without my mother.

A teddy was tied to a post. During the COVID lock down, children became restless at home. Their parents took them on bear-hunt drives to spot as many as possible.

Further up the road, two teddies were stuck in front windows. It was something to discover, to count, a distraction when the four walls of home became too confining and everyone desperately needed an outing.

Stuffed teddies appeared in windows all over Australian cities. In uncertain times, bear-hunting brought smiles; a positive for families in a sea of 2020 negativity.