Beyond the Clouds

This book is a collection of poems and short stories that are loosely grouped into nine sections according to subject matter or topic. Each section begins with a photograph and a quotation that will hopefully serve as an indication or preview of the writings within. The pieces are quite diverse and range from inspirational to humorous and include some autobiographical themes, current affairs, politics, nature, the animal world, along with a host of others. Many were written while gazing out at the harbor in my little home town and dreamily observing the boats cruising through the waters and sea gulls soaring in the sky. Others were sparked by travels along highways, wooded paths and beaches. Still more were kindled by those elusive thoughts and musings that seem to pop into our minds from who knows where. My purpose in putting this collection together was not only to record some of my thoughts and experiences, but also to hopefully inspire readers to delve a little deeper into their own experiences in search of the larger picture or hidden meaning . . . to go "Beyond the Clouds."