Love Letters From Prison

Beyond Comparison

2011-12-20T13:38:00.004-05:00

I’m very happy to share this wonderful gift, a letter that I received, to add to my blog today. Some people never really know what pure love is. It’s something we can’t see or hold. So even if you’re locked behind bars, nothing can take this kind of love away. Time- nor- death stops the heart- and- soul, from always knowing one another through the vast universe of possibilities. I adore the kind of rare love described in this letter, that reminds me of my parents.

Dearest Julieanne,

Hey, beautiful! I truly hope that this letter finds you in the absolute best of all circumstances these days. I'm doing well, drawing for several hours, and now I'm putting that to the side, so I can make for certain my love has something to smile about in her mailbox on this coming Saturday. I guess I'll just have to see if my sister shows up on Saturday, or if I'm even called up there. I'm pretty excited to see her, and I'm so eager to talk to her, telling her about you even further, and our relationship. Mainly speaking on the feelings that I possess for Julieanne Noel. I really can't wait to share with her, I'm sure I'll be a rambling fool, but expressing what is true is refreshing to me. I don't talk with any of the people that I'm around about very meaningful stuff, it can be best to keep it trivial, and not be the dude who is open, discussing his personal biz. I've never been that way. When I go outside, I'll do some routine (workout), and then literally spend the remaining hours looking off in the distance. Nothing is visible but the inner structure of the prison, this yard. However, a somewhat decent field of grass exists in the middle. I walk on a path that cuts through it every time I'm escorted to a visit. There is a clear view of the sky, it's a nice one. Sometimes I'll see these mini airplanes cutting through the sky, they get pretty close too. So, yeah.. you can always count on the fact I'm always thinking about you, especially whenever I'm out at yard. Breathing the same air you are, only a short drive apart physically. I imagine how instead of the idea that you are staring up at the same clouds somewhere near, that someday soon we will be together directly under the beauty of the sky, preferably an overcast one. For sure we'll be wearing our exploring pants those days, and take a drive to a place we can be alone, to do what we wish.

Don't think I've forgotten about the requested flix of your room. The Hot Mama Lair, I'm only familiar with the corners of your bed at the moment, and I'm certain that there is so much more to observe. A vivid image of you sleeping in it will be even more so, even though I know it probably resembles a ball of blankets with you somewhere under there, sleeping away. I'd probably end up waking my wife from her rest, I know, I'm terrible, but that is the truth. I'd try my best to refrain so that you could get the necessary sleep, especially due to the erratic schedule you follow, where at times you are cleary lacking the precious snooze time. Believe me, I'll keep you exhausted/worn down/and tired plenty when I come home. For a long time, I promise you this.

Even though I didn't get to see you as usual Saturday, I really hope that you will take the moment to realize how much it is I truly love you. I'll never expect anyone else to understand the strength of our bond and the passionate flames that rage from it. All I can do is wish upon them that they will be so lucky one day to of been granted the same amazing gift. I am rich beyond any wealth I've ever considered obtaining, I find myself happier in the middle of the night when I briefly awaken, than I've ever felt on the most pleasant days I've ever experienced when I didn't find myself locked behind a door. I'm not sure if I was ever searching for you, because I don't think I ever really believed you existed. I could see finding someone whom could offer the typical good times but never someone I'd feel incomplete or lost without. A woman I'm connected to on an emotional level that justifies the meaning of forever. You are as much part of me, as I am of myself, and that isn't something that simply changes in the blink of an eye, as so many things do in this world. We are family in every part of the definition, and we are a perfect family at that. We need nothing else, or more, being physically in reach is the only improvement. There is nothing I wouldn't do for you, for us. It's crazy how much more of a lifetime we have ahead to spend with each other, and then as fate has it, we will find each other again in the next. I feel as if that has just been proven in this one, by what occurred by our paths crossing as they did. There is absolutely no doubt that you are the one true love of my soul, the other half of my heart, and with it not present, what is held within my chest doesn't beat. I was so used to the cold touch of it and had figured out how to embrace comfort regardless of this. What you've done, naturally by the tender warmth of your love spilling light into where there was solely darkness, has awakened me to breathe life for the first time. To taste the essence of beauty, and to see the perfect gem that is nothing less than the single reason I'm assured that love is mine to own. You've given me everything, and I live to give you the same. Devotion is my path, Babe, one that I could run along with my eyes closed, and never lose direction to the destination our hearts call me towards. I never fathomed sitting here, anywhere, and telling a woman the things I express to you. I can imagine doing nothing else, and choose to say anything but is almost offensive to me. That is how I see it, to compare you to anyone - offensive, an incomparable notion that is as comical, as it is ridiculous. You are so much more special than you give yourself credit for, Babe. The understanding you'll come to see, is something I anticipate with great happiness, and by the time I can hold you in my arms, you'll hold a completely new belief of the woman you truly are. I think that will make us both incredibly full of smiles.

I love you, and feel this love surround you and move throughout you today. I'm besides you nonstop, whispering every disclosure my heart releases, reminding you repeatedly, You are my air. Take care of my wife for me, and I'll see you soon, Ok.

Love and Respect,
ME

Life

2011-11-18T08:26:00.000-05:00

Soon we all find out, that we realy mean nothing in the scheme of it all...

"There are those among us who will find so much satisfaction in the countless trivial and vulgar amusements of a crude people that they have no time for the joys of the mind. There are those who are so closely shut up within a little round of petty pleasures they that have never dreamed of the fun of reading and conversing and investigating and reflecting."

miss you dad...

2011-10-18T01:52:00.001-04:00

Happy Father's Day

2011-06-18T12:02:00.000-04:00

April 13th

2011-04-13T16:22:00.001-04:00

Happy Anniversary mom and dad ♥

Human Emotions and Weaknesses

2011-03-28T07:42:00.000-04:00

Big corporations and laws make money off human emotions and weaknesses, knowing damn well that most of us will fail in the system because it's basically set-up so we all get humiliated and bullied into following orders. I will never stop fighting for human rights no matter what. I might not have a lot money but I do have these words from my heart, to leave behind some truth of my existence.

Wheat Penny Collection

2011-03-20T10:33:00.002-04:00

The best way to learn how to count is by twos dad always said. With my dad’s wheat penny collection, I counted-and-counted. He would fill coffee cans with them and tell me about how his grandfather used to have a huge collection and they would be worth something someday, I would barely be able to carry the pennies because the cans were so heavy and I would spill them all over the floor. My dad also showed me the numbers of life through a deck of playing cards. They say that we can choose our own destiny even though ironically it seems the path we end up on is far from a so-called normal one in life. We were one of the only families we knew that never had any money but still traveled fairly legal across country and back so many times. I lost track of schools we had enrolled in. We never knew any different in this country it seems that moving like a gypsy is just another process. Our father believed in a few good things a man only needed; his work boots, hot coffee, and tool box.

We would move so fast that the same top ten songs would be playing on the radio when we moved again. I remember when it was the song “Fly like an Eagle” by The Steve Miller Band “Time keeps on slipping, slipping, slipping, into the future.” These were the little things that got me through being homesick, anytime I wanted I could just close my eyes and be on the island in my mind. I used to ask my dad “Where are we going this time?” When he was in his driving mode he didn’t want to be bothered. So soon I stopped even asking where we were going anymore because it seemed he never knew. Being happy is a state of mind that people just can’t seem to understand if you don’t have any money.

I found out early in life that people get very spiteful when they encounter real love or beauty of any kind with hope and happiness, when you come from another part of the country or being an outsider no matter where you are in life or who you are, it is very hard to every really fit in. It’s like playing the part of a role for a movie always being on the scene never missing a beat. Growing up out west, I was lucky enough to be riding horses and playing basketball with my dad. We seemed to have everything that most families didn’t have I noticed. My parents always stayed together and others didn’t. My father’s dearest muse was my mother. Our lives were always filled with so much motion. I never stopped to notice how my parents never really even talked about their own families back east. That was just the way we had to live detached we were nomads following maps where ever they would take us.

We used to have such simple times with three hundred sixty- five days on sunlight playing games and having picnics in the Rocky Mountains. Our parents would always keep up on their target practice, but this life didn’t come without certain tragic events that will make it hard to ever understand or choose which side to be on. This story doesn’t really have a trigger-happy ending and it doesn’t even make sense. It’s just our life and what happens when we always tried to live off the grid. Mom always found a way to lay in the sun even if it was under the sky light or by a big window. I don’t think she ever knew how much light she has though now or then. Our dad always did his best to be there for us, picking us up after school and taking us roller-skating or for the movies. He taught us to be so grateful for everything in life as my mother always showed us how much we had, by making us homemade gifts all the time.

She would sew until her fingers bled and stay up all night to make sure all the toys were sewn before Christmas. I always loved watching her sew and bake as she worked herself to death though. I began to wonder when our parents would ever catch a break in life. It seemed no matter what we always ended up being the ones that had to move or always thinking we should go somewhere else, but why were we always really on the run and why did our beauty and love have everything and nothing all at once? That is something I still will never have any answers for. I always wondered why everyone thought I had the coolest parents. Being wild and crazy wears off and nobody wants to take you seriously when you get older though, they think you are just some burnt-out used- up has been that doesn’t know a damn thing in life just because you might not have any money, doesn’t mean you are stupid.

Everyone else had fancy lunch boxes in school but I had the coolest mom in the world that would hand -paint my brown-lunch bags the night before school everyday. One year I went a little crazy with the construction paper. I decided that if I couldn’t have a Christmas tree I would make one out of paper. All the paper in the world doesn’t matter though unless it’s the kind you can spend. But in my world I never even knew what that was only compassion and feeling loved. I spread my paper construction hearts everywhere I went from school-to-school always cutting paper-hearts. I thought if I left enough hearts it might catch on and everyone would finally have one. Most the time kids would just make fun of me for always cutting paper-hearts. When we never lived beyond our means we lived wealthier than the richest man in the world. Being human is not about having more than everyone else. We are all supposed to help one another not judge people from their ripped up jeans or long hair.

My dad always said the real American dream was eating cheeseburgers and french-fries watching the fireworks. Having barbeques in the backyard and driving down the highway with the freedom to do so. Now that I am adult and find myself in hard times again. I see how my father had it when he must have gone for help all those times and had to suffer in humiliation. When we try to get help if you’re even lucky to get any in the first place, we must go through the whole process of being investigated and looked down on like an animal that can’t take care of yourself and family. When things would get really hard for us my dad always saved the wishbones from baked chickens we had. We would respectful make a wish as we broke the wishbone. Sometimes I think my dad would let me win and other times he would win hoping that his wish would come true, to just be able to take care of his family.

No matter what anyone says he was really a very kind, loving, and honest devoted family man, but I believe that the system gives us brain damage after awhile. Breaking us all down like just another number for the corporations to do what they want with the little man and as the big boss gets richer quicker we are left out in the cold without any food to eat. Treating us all like we are a dime of a dozen and telling us we have too much confidence in one-hand and stupefying us with mind numbing news and media to let us down and bring us up in the next moment? They spend so much on the drug war in this country. Why does it seem like the drug stores are legally getting away with being the biggest drug dealers in town? Whether it’s by street drugs or legally, one out of three Americans are consumed by synthetic chemicals. Instead of building more rehabs and schools they build more prisons.

Lock-Down

2010-08-05T11:57:00.001-04:00

To My Dearest Freya,

Hey baby, well it’s a funny thing, that I got locked down on the 4th of July and of course they all move you after lock down. I get moved over to the FPOD which is where Raphel is pretty funny alright. But also this old con that is here from the joint under protective custody he is involved with lawsuits against a big company for millions. So I’ll talk to him, they have him out of the joint because he could be hurt very easy. His lawyer is Gerry Spence, my bunkie is Buck, and he is 55 and pretty famous. He wrote two books and some songs. His lawyers Gerry Spence he’s going to talk to him Tuesday, he will give him my message. He says he’ll talk to me for sure, that’s the kind of case he likes you know. It’s a case that he might like it’s between me and you, tell no one but the girls. The alibi is almost about together and the note I showed you at the window, is the only thing that I remember. I know you’ll say the truth. So I’m not worried the letter this time should set up. You know what we are dealing with. So I say lets dance.

I hope you can get wheels soon and I hope you get your driving license also. The only thing as I write so much. I forget what I’ve said. I hope you don’t mind hearing me over and over. Oh baby please say you will be with me. In the cell block I can lie on my bunk and see that TV. I could’ve done worse. This cell block is mostly men, no boys. After this pen runs out it will be pencil only after this page for the next, I’ll be here and until released. I’m on the other side of the building on the north side. So I can’t see the church anymore, which I don’t like. Plus I’m on the top bunk I don’t like that either any way you know all make the best of it. This is the block where all the snitches are, so I have to be really careful.

That guy I’m with over here says if anything goes wrong and I go down he’ll meet me at the gate. He will make it so there are no problems. The word is that I’m the clean one. I’ve already got a spot if necessary no one can stop the truth. I am not guilty. He says he has a place in Nebraska. Gabe is here that they moved him out as soon as they move to me in. maybe I’ll see you soon, it won’t be long and we’ll be gone. I have no other that I could hold on to like I hold on to you. I hope you believe me at least. I want no other. I love you baby and hope someday you get my letters I have written. If I won’t ever be there ever again. I want you to at least have my letters it is the only thing we have for now. I help you’ll wait for me Baby. I can’t think of anything but the times we’ll have soon very soon. I hope you’ll still want to be with a little farm boy. You will always be my baby doll.

One of buck’s books is called, "Lovers Fighter Freight Train Rider and the other one is called, "Mama’s Boy is Prison Bond". So we will see me how it goes on the case. It is a good case for a lawsuit you know. Well I know this is getting pretty old with all this law bullshit. I wish we were able to build that little house and grow a garden. Now I’m afraid. I won’t be there for you. Please remember who you are, never guess that. Alright mama, I know you. Everything will be fine. I love you, from my very soul, and I’m crying…
Love Always, Dale H.

Love Beyond

2010-08-04T11:04:00.001-04:00

cell mates

2010-08-04T09:35:00.010-04:00

Was Matthew Shepard really Murdered during a robbery over drugs, not a Hate Crime?

Dear Freya,
There is this expose reporter from New York City that has been in contact with me for some time now. He came to me through Aaron McKinney; he has been working on the corruption, in the Wyoming justice system, you know the threats, intimidations, phony charges, and bought testimonies. Anyways he asked me if he could talk to you. I asked him to assist you in publishing your book the last touch. Here is his phone number call until you get a hold of him. Please call this man! Love Always, Dale H.

Dead Roses

2010-07-14T08:44:00.000-04:00

Closed Hand

2010-07-13T17:16:00.002-04:00

We’ve seen some things people do not know. I have only one thing in my mind and in my sight you and my family, and love you and god only knows how much. The past is gone now there’s no time for anything, but life. Just be the real Freya, and stand up. I’m not being allowed to help my family anymore. I know you remember me walking 8 miles to for cigarettes and food; it was always an honor for me. A man like me would do that for his love and for a woman like you. I lived in a time where you don’t ask, you don’t take, you don’t beg, you just do. Thank you Freya for waiting by the window at home for me. Thank you for giving me unconditional love, please allow me to apologize, to our family and my daughters, who I love and you my beautiful baby doll. I love you and I know you tear up as bad as me when we see each other and than are out of reach and out of touch.

I guess I’m just a sentimental as anyone. My grandfather did a good job raising me. He wasn’t like most people today. I feel pretty stupid not seeing how things go on between humans. I would not have been as fortunate, as I have been all these years if it was not meant to be. I have been so lucky to be in the company of such good fine girls, as you and your daughter’s. God has truly blessed me with your presence. Don’t expect letters on paper from someone who writes to me on the wire. You know I’m reading your thoughts. Come back Martha come back. But I can’t help but to put it on paper to say right out and I can’t help it to say things no doubt, especially to you.
“Goodbye ruby Tuesday of my darling let me go “

There is always some other line that comes to mind. I really can tell this is a lot for you, but you’ll be able to hold up to life now. Now that you where you are, I hope I’m the one you want, just be proud of who you are, I want you to be the one who’s there. When you blow your top, and guess what I will be baby doll, cause I am, cause I am, I will be damned. Because I am .there was once a place on a farm .where I learned I could do no harm. Where I live life as a charm. I awoke to the roosters’ alarm. Now the things that I became. Are what I am. It’s like the love of the land, and I want you to know and understand. How simply it is to be a grand. Have the boy was soon to be a man, and you to be the woman on my hand.

Love always Dale

Now there are a lot of the things each one needs
The most right in my closed hand
You don’t look down
And don’t look up
No damn number
And don’t ask the open hand
Who is the plumber?
And don’t ask for what you need the most
The answer is told by a ghost
As the frost covers all the lovers
Of the earth
In my closed hand
Was the first thing each one needs the worst
It’s a blessing not a curse
Nothing could be greater
It’s the new world translator

what lies within the truth...

2010-07-13T15:43:00.000-04:00

Indeed

2010-07-13T11:23:00.000-04:00

Horsehair Crosses

2010-07-13T09:46:00.001-04:00

Did DePree ask you anything about Buck Whitley or even mention his name? You ask Faye if she can even remember anything about Mr. SKaggs either. It would really be some assistants if they did. You think about it. Make sure you tell me if they did or not. Well anyway it’s good to hear from you. I have started to collect more CDs; do you have something of your own to play them on? I’m glad to hear the groups that you are listening to. I get to see someone MTV but only sometimes. I get to see Ren and Stimpy every other week on TV, we watch family matters and I like that new show men behaving badly and also of the third rock. There are these two little sparrows and sit on my window. Wish I could cut a hole in the screen and start putting bread crumbs out there for them. If I did that they would say I was trying to escape .I sent your mom one of my crosses, hope she likes it.

The food we got today for lunch could come under the fifth and eighth amendment’s to the constitution one being sentences without due process and two cruel and unjust punishments. You just have to see it, boy is a good thing I have some cookies. They do give us of crackers for our soup. so I save up about a dozen and when I go down for supper I get a bunch of butter pads and that’s what I like, butter and crackers. For the super they give soup here, it can only be described by its color, you know let’s say, light green or off browns. I’d better stop all this complaining, anyways you make sure you say hello to frank, when you see him. Tell your mom I love her and I won’t write no more if she’s don’t want me to. Tell daisy in Cory I said hello, I have wrote a couple of letters to Jimmy and Eurith, but I still don’t have a buck yet to buy the stamps now.

I remember that James you’re talking about, the one who spoke real good Spanish. All of the sudden it dawned on me who you saw. Is Daisy still keeping in touch with Jay? I hope so try to remember to say something to him when she calls him. I hope he’s doing all right. I tried to put together a book of all my poems. I’ve got plenty on my mind I have wrote about 12 of 13 good ones so far, when I get on the yard I’m going to put some of them on the prison paper and may try to get a job when I get on the yard . It won’t be hard work just making things with horsehair. All right that’s pretty much all I have to say right now. Not really I could talk to you until the end of days. Please make sure that Faye gets it together with some of the things I’ve asked her to do for me, like find out about giving me transferred back to Maine Penitentiary. Thanks for the letter, I loved it. I will be sure to send poems later on. Love Always Dale your Dad

Life is like Jell-O

2010-07-13T09:18:00.001-04:00

You all had to grow up to fast that’s the way it is sometimes. The ball just keeps on rolling, enjoy your time. Don’t rush out too hard don’t fall for any dumb shit, baby. Remember outsiders, stay golden, stay golden, the best days are ahead don’t stop now. Life is like Jell-O, in order to eat it; you have to catch it first.

“It’s your cat now Lewis.” Pet Semetary

The Wall

2010-07-12T10:44:00.000-04:00

Dale the Plumber

2010-07-12T00:09:00.001-04:00

Dale the plumber, had a daughter named Faye
She was presented to him on his birthday
The bond was made in heaven
There’s no more to say
He loved before that moment
and more each day
We grew up together, taking chances at every bend
He said the road goes on forever
and the party never ends
She said I love you daddy
and I forgive you for your sins
now tonight in this prison cell
I weep in my heart for my daughter’s
and in my heart I weep
But for my birthday gift, given to me
by a ghost
It’s for her, I truly weep the most…
Long Dale Harper 12/25/96

Force the Force

2010-07-12T00:05:00.001-04:00

Your letter to the White House was well thought out, and I agree that all the children in America within these shores deserve a chance in education. Though what the government would rather do is have a bunch of the immigrants come across the borders. To become drug dealers, so they can increase the police force and arrest them all, in order so the cops can do as they please. If this country spent as much money on education, as they did on force the force. It would only be half is much is what is needed. The government believes that they can stop a civil war, by force now. but the real civil war is the war they are inflicting on us as citizens, and our rights now have been gone right in front of us.

"I’ve always liked Northeast Harbor this time of year, and it always reminds me of St. Michael’s Maryland in Another time and Place. All these tourist towns, they all seem to grow and shrink, into one time at different seasons of the year."

Dale Harper

See -Through Television

2010-07-12T00:02:00.001-04:00

Greetings from Far, Far Away Oct. 22, 2001
To my Dearest Annie,

Well how are you doing these days? Seems like a lot of things are going on out there in the world. I hope everything is okay with you all. Well did you finish your schooling yet? They sure hope everything went all right with the last days. You ever get all those addresses I sent your mother out of the book that you see advertised on TV, and there are some real good programs to assist you in furthering your education, and also in helping you to get a business started. You should look into some of them does that TV, work okay that I sent you. They’ve got these new TVs down here now that are like that fan I sent home. they are see-through I haven’t seen one as of them yet and I’m not sure of what brand they are either, or how much are they even cost, and I’m sure I won’t be enlightened to all these facts shortly though being were at a high security level now. I get letters from one of my friends who have been home for about 2 ½ years; he’s got a new baby he sent some photos. He’s buying a new truck so is quite busy. I haven’t heard from Jimmy and Eurith for some time now have you? I hope they’re doing okay. I suppose Daisy and Cory are real busy in the middle of the lobster season? Do you see them very much? I haven’t heard from Daisy in sometime either. I wonder if she still goes all out on the holidays. She always loved Halloween, thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s .I kind of do myself. Well hope you are getting along with all your friends. a lot of those people you talk about I remember well .I remember as a kid, little kids. Well behave yourself baby, try to stay out of trouble. you don’t need no unnecessary problems. So I’ll see you later I love you and miss you very much
Love Always, Dale your Dad

A Son's Birthday Card

2010-07-12T00:00:00.000-04:00

My Dearest Freya May 2004
Well let’s cut to the chase. To answer your question, like why could you or anyone else want to re-write a perfect ending? Yes we will live happily ever after. Maybe really tell me what is on your mind? You haven’t forgotten that I’m your friend have you? So about three or four weeks ago the case-worker calls me, and to his office and says to you know about Jay Harper and thought to myself something’s gone wrong! He wants to come to see me, can you believe it? He’ll be in Vegas, next week. He wants to see you and then he says come to find out all he wants is to have his father, in his life and his family’s lives. He’s really something else. Jesus, he’s got his right shoulder covered with tattoos, his real nice portrait of his five kids, than he has names down him, he’s got them in oriental words for like truth family ect. Some stuff has on his back and he’s getting more marks of my initials. He also plays the guitar and writes poems and songs. It’s uncanny Freya; he doesn’t hold anything against me about anything gone by. Maybe we can all take a page from his book. My mother has fucked herself with just like she has with all my family members. He is a good man he is caring and helpful and I know it’s because of what he missed as a boy, he doesn’t want to see anyone else suffer.
He has a good heart, it just blows me away. He is my son which makes me Ward’s son. I really did get my answer after all this time I see why my mother hates me. It’s because I’m a Ward. Jay wanted to know about ward and his family. Not until this April did he even know when my birthday was. My mother and Linda don’t get along either come to find out. Jay says his mother has never really talked to me down too bad, she didn’t make that mistake. He told me that Tony Basel was really good to him and in many ways he’s a lot like Tony. I always told you about Tony he had an effect on me and most important he gave me my trade. Jay says his mom is real hard headed not that that’s a bad thing. I don’t think I’d have it any other way. I’ve got a lot to give to you, Freya. You have always been a real good mom to the girls and a good wife, and I probably held you back some that I never meant to do. you got your little restaurant and your children are around you. We should be together and we will be again. You must believe that, you must have faith and hope. It’s funny Jay came back to me and how things come around he believes in fate, he’s coming back within the year and he’s bringing his wife Rhonda to meet me. He just told the children about me and it was a funny thing all he really wanted was a birthday card from me on his birthday, I sent him one this year. That was all it took for Son to say all the things he wanted to say to his father. I’ve been reserved with him and have spoke to him about all the relatives as far back as I could remember. I just tried to stick to the facts of life and told you all about my crazy life too much drugs and guns etc. None of it phases him he told me that his godfather Johnny was real good with him I was right to pick john to be his godfather. What is daisy doing? I haven’t heard from her for a while and told jay to get a hold of her, but not sure she’s even there .you mean everything to me, Freya you’ve got to take time to talk to me. You need to tell me just what to expect from you .when the parole board wants to know where I’m to go and who’s going to be there, and what’s going on is getting closer every day. I hope you don’t let me down, but I don’t want you to do something, you can’t live with either, you understand. I’m not afraid, I’m not smart enough to be afraid ,and in my heart I do know what you feel and think but the parole board cannot read your mind, I truly hope you haven’t been involved in any manner with the that bounty hunter, and hope that your father is not against me. They say it will be the way it’s supposed to be jay even likes horse racing. Things they sure are odd aren’t they well I do hope you read this with an understanding heart and open mind. You know you mean the world to me you are my finest work. I don’t want anything but good for you ,I still remember the menu that we made, a for the Harper House and remember these things in those times of great love, and feelings to be shared the look on your face, and the love and ~
I Love You Always, Dale Harper

far,far, away...

2010-07-11T17:55:00.001-04:00

Butterfly Kisses

2010-07-11T17:53:00.000-04:00

Old Captain Jim Harper

2010-07-11T11:33:00.001-04:00

Freya, Nov. 10 2004

Well Thanksgiving is just around the corner, I bet you all are going to have a real nice meal. I love to be there to indulge. I figured the restaurant is closed by now, and drained down and ready to go another year. How did everything go this summer? Do you ever hear from the Aunt’s in Florida?
I miss plumbing; I do draw considerable plans, from day to day. Some are very simple and others are elaborate to unusual. I still think masonry is the way to go.

Well the other day I went for my yearly check up that’d be 2yrs. In reality. I’m ok I guess. I’m 69’ tall I weigh 160lbs. my B.P. 60/100 and my P.R. was 66. It doesn’t seem like my 60th birthday is close but it is. My hair is turning all gray and I still have a mustache.

Well right now I’ve been doing a lot of abstract I seem to enjoy it more than anything and some other artists have told me that I’m good at it. Who knows about all that, I love it. I’ve been in a slump in my writing but I have produced some other good stuff. Jay loves my writing aint that somethin’? Ashley has taken a liking to me, she is a very interesting and writing me and likes photography, she has a boyfriend and a car .She says that her mom’s new husband treats them all real nice. Amber is 10 years old and a very outgoing child, and she wrote to me and was quite open and has nice handwriting. Jay has sent me some older photos, it’s pretty cool. He and Rhonda are expecting their six child. That’s what I wanted was six kids. I got five good ones and six counting you.

So, Nevada has worn off pretty much .I do not like their system and I can’t even begin to tell you of their short comings; the worst is the food, followed by the true ignorance of the personnel, and not to mention the medical or a lack of, and I haven’t seen a dentist yet. For months now we have had nothing but green bologna sandwiches for lunch. I don’t eat them anyway, but it’s just the idea that nothing is being done to improve their conditions here. Well enough of that.

Aaron McKinney is supposed to be on television on the 20/20 show. You should try to watch it on ABC and I’m still his cellmate. I’m twice his age, plus six years. We get along like a father and son, he’s a good kid. He takes those double life sentences okay. His partner, Russell Henderson, is about three doors down. He also seems ok person, and pretty good friends with those boys. Being were all here lost to the Albany Colorado Boys Club. We’ve been looking into getting transferred someplace else, haven’t heard back yet. They sent two of these Nevada blacks up to Thompson, Maine and wished I could get out there, that of course would need some communication from you and it would be nice to have some visitations with my children, and I don’t expect that. So I’ll go another route and getting close to the age where I can claim a hardship on that alone, so I’ll just out wait them.

Jay is in touch with that college program from Washington, DC about assistance for parole for older prisoners. He really is a great son, all the kids send a me cards ever so often, they are all beautiful kids and so great to their pop-pop and I told Annie, when Rhonda Has this baby she will be in an Aunt eight times over, and I understand he got a hold of Daisy, he really is a good man, and I’m real glad to see its pass through the blood, he cusses like a sailor, old Captain Jim Harper, would be proud of him. “I sailed the Horn, from the Gulf of Mexico. I went top side to fennel, the sails in a blow, I fell to my death, on the deck down below.” I will send you one of these abstracts, you can say it’s a Thanksgiving card it’s for you.

There have been a lot of employees stealing the inmate’s money when it arrives. So when ever anyone sends money make sure it’s sent to the office, in Las Vegas. Make sure you save the receipt from the postal money order. If you’re lucky you can feed you self out of canteen for about the past six months. That’s if I don’t want to get sick ,and we can’t even get any decent clothing from these people, and that’s one thing about Wyoming, they made sure you had good warm boots and food to eat.

I’m sending some more of those money things you can pass them around don’t forget they don’t send any letters, that might be attached to the money from that office and if you want to let me know you sent one you’ll have to have that letters sent separately that way I’ll know to expect it and if something goes funny, I can rant and rave at them. Don’t forget to follow up on all of this. I told that story about when I got sick and they didn’t care. They finally gave me those same pills. I got for when I had chicken pox.

So tell the girls I’ve contacted and tell them that I love them and miss them very much. Thank them for all to things they’ve done in this time of need for me, and their letters are always wonderful, and I love receiving them. Thank them for the cash they’ve sent also, take it easy. try to do some art this winter may be write a poem or song, it really always amazes me how good I feel, after I’ve have done these things.
Love, Dale

Happy Father's Day

2010-06-20T10:12:00.001-04:00

Miss you Dad...

letter from my mom

2010-05-02T11:15:00.000-04:00

old letter to my grandparents...

2010-05-02T11:12:00.001-04:00

happy b-day r.i.p. dad

2010-05-02T11:10:00.001-04:00

1973

2009-12-31T09:35:00.000-05:00

1973

See the penguins, semi circle

Hopping, wildly

See the several centers

Rising mildly

See the sole penguins

Gather all around

Hear their flapping

Hear their clapping

Hear the present penguins

Baboons chose as leader

By who’s the stronger

On the other hand with penguins

It’s who will flap the longer

1974

Blessed be the white man

Who has resurrected himself?

Moved hands of time

With his worthless wealth

Calling upon all his gods

And paying at the shrine

Certainly gods’ must work overtime

1975

The time the paper mill exploded

The found out the watchman

Was loaded

And they couldn’t believe the news

And they couldn’t believe their ears

It’s been working so good for so many years

1976

The epidemic

Spread and spread

The carrier, was money

They said

And it spread and it spread

And it spread….

Dale

A poem from December 1972

2009-12-31T09:34:00.000-05:00

It was seen happening, by the Millhouse stream

The fantastic maneuvers, of the election machine

Turned up to early, by the Watergates rush

It came down from the Millhouse

In a fearful gush

Riding in view, for all to observe

The election machine maneuvers

Its rumbling can be heard

It is now time, for all to ride

Catching the wind on the rising tide

Had one been in the Millhouse

He surely would have died

But down by the Millhouse stream

The Watergates rush, seemed to carry, the election machine

On a voyage, serene

For all to observe, and yet not see

Constitutes wonderment, how this could be.

Dale

December 1976

2009-12-31T01:29:00.001-05:00

Jimmy Harper, December 1976

Well it was real nice, getting your letter. Elizabeth and I enjoyed reading it; Lillian remembers you and still likes those little books. She is doing better now and talking and when we fuss with her she just fusses back at us. She’s a good little girl. Elizabeth is taking her GED soon and hopes to become an accountant, there are some courses offered. I am good with numbers too. I’ve given some considerable thought with masonry and still pursue my plumbing. We don’t want to make money anyways we just want to live and love. Work together with an end, be happy which we already are, but not get involved with anyone. The way to go is light as possible. But never the less, it something to try, it’s all just paper and ink, even the dollar, and anything that is tangible isn’t for the heart but the hand. The things for the heart are all the things nature gives and you know that.

I remember all those things I learned from you. I remember the farm and how you always had to worry about the numbers. All the things that the land had to offer, to see the planting, the cultivating, the waiting, the growing, the harvest is to see life and death to continual process to see the animals, trees and water, which I know must’ve kept you moving. I guess it must’ve done something to me. The seasons affect the way I am. I know that you know, but I don’t think many people know why? I think that’s the most important thing I know.

There are not many days that I don’t think about that old house of your father and mothers and that little creek in my mind. I wrote a lot of poems about 800. People that I read them to enjoy my poems. I enjoy writing them and reading them also. Some of them just come to me and as I write them they come out perfect and others I have to edit because the verses sometimes don’t correspond. I’ve done it a lot so now I can criticize them. I think a lot. I also write songs and play them.

I was never much of a son to you and I wish I would’ve listen to you more often. I’m glad I learned what little I have. The snow out here doesn’t effect no one until its about 2 feet deep. The snow falls different here then out on the low lands. The mountains and the winter show you just how small man is.

Sometimes I feel like an old farm boy who someday will get to go home. Compared to you I’ll always be a boy. I’m going to send you some poems, one from every year, starting in 1972. Someday I’ll be famous jimmy Harper. I hope you have a good birthday and Christmas. Dale

good old days...

2009-12-31T00:08:00.002-05:00

mindrays...

2009-07-16T09:17:00.001-04:00

The Lovely Miss Daisy ~
07/11/00

I totally understand and I dig what you’re saying about not caring anymore or trying to be happy or even being happy being unhappy. I can relate. I’ve been there for awhile now.
I think that’s what called comfortably numb. I think it’s a good yet dangerous place to be.
At least you’re (I’m too, but for sake of the way things are said) we stay content and not bitching. You’re not being obstructive and not bringing anyone else down. I at least hope that you hope for more, for deeper, richer life perhaps someday. You know like don’t give up?

Maybe it goes back to the “circle” we’ve discussed. I know I’ve made a few through my experience in my mind, my third eye visions and calculations and even when I tripped on acid. I feel complete by the things I’ve learned. Even though one thing I learned is that I’m not really complete at all. Now does that make sense to you?

I’ve really enjoyed getting your mail, baby. It makes me smile and makes my day. I say to myself that girl is cool and in my world that’s a compliment. For what it’s worth.

I don’t know how much more I can write to you. I’m not getting along with my folks. Don’t forget me. Send me your smiles and all your sensual kisses.
And don’t ever stop dreaming, with kaleidoscope eyes ~ Mark

MUSIC

2009-07-16T08:34:00.001-04:00

happy birthday dad...

2009-05-02T20:31:00.001-04:00

Mom wishes she was making you lemon pie today.

Thanks for the love and gift of life...

we miss you daddy!

Amen ~

04-13-09

2009-04-13T20:47:00.000-04:00

Dear Dale,

It will be
What ever it is you’re looking for
It will be
What ever it is you need
It will be better
Even though I know you’re not sure
Remember the rain even comes down
In Shargri-La
Look up as it soaks into your skin
And remember who you are
Come on home
When the road you’ve been walking gets too long
Don’t be scared cause the grass
You thought was greener isn’t there
You can come on home
If you find the sun don’t shine through
Every window
If you find the moon light night
Still makes you blue
If you find out why you feel
The way you do
Glance over your shoulder boy
You know I’ll be there
I’ve found you in the past you know
Sometimes life isn’t fair so…
Come on home
When the road that you’ve been walking gets too long
Come on home
My sweet baby
I love you so… Freya Elizabeth

part 4

2009-02-15T12:30:00.000-05:00

dale and freya (4)...

happy holidays...

2008-12-25T09:47:00.001-05:00

children seem to understand better...

2008-11-28T18:55:00.000-05:00

Thankful...

2008-11-27T20:08:00.000-05:00

Static

2008-09-25T20:26:00.000-04:00

In pursuit of modern infinity...

2008-09-25T19:54:00.000-04:00

In pursuit of modern infinity
A psychologists joy, of where
The universe starts, a scientific
Technologically, Sophisticated
Society, still only guess,
In an educated manner, advance in math,
Take up the staff, don’t make me laugh.
The pope, the president
The therapists, the novelist, the poet
None better know it. They all tend
To view in the negative sense.
Survey the freedom of recent oppression.
World wide
Just try to hide.
No-one knows the joy of life any longer,
What could be wronger?
Social science, in total darkness
Of what makes life worth living.
The gift of gods’ blood.
From compassion, comes time,
And infinity, of the worlds family tree.
Forward, to the past, the last
A prize lies, and more lies.
Turn to the inner world, you and
Only you know, the infinite of
Happiness, that’s where it shall be,
Found, within. Pursue no further.

thee artist

2008-09-05T17:49:00.001-04:00

part 3 letter before a lifetime sentence in prison...

2008-08-25T20:34:00.002-04:00

Oh for heavens sake, all on a beautiful day. All that I write here now is that inside, things gone unsaid for so very long. Don’t hate me anymore. Love me and love yourself, love all that’s good, know when never not to know again!

Do you think we will ever get another chance?

Please forgive me, for anything I have done to cause you to disbelieve in the vows I made you, for us, for love and for the family.

I shall wait forever and a day.

If I never touch you again then I might as well be dead.

I’m crying now because I’m afraid I’ll never see my son and daughter jay and Lisa again, my mom and dad or my grand children but most of all I need to see you.

There are only two things I shall never tolerate disrespect for honor and innocence.

I know a woman of your class will probably never forgive a man like me.

Remember that one room school house and the little cabin in the woods. When someone tells you that you might’ve done better then me, think of the times we had on that small island. I was so happy with you and a very small amount of earthly items it was you I only wanted.

I have forgiven any who transcended my favor. I have given to those in need and had compassion. I have genuine concern for mankind on a whole. I forgiven those now who have driven the nails into my heart. Only I have such a hard time forgiven what is happening to my family, I pray for your release from sorrow, pain of loss.

If I ever get released from here, I will give food to the hungry, clothes for the poor and sick. I will visit people in prisons and have a total different out look because now I see how it is to be the one on the other side of the bars.

poem

2008-08-25T17:00:00.001-04:00

part 2 letter before a life sentence

2008-08-23T11:59:00.000-04:00

I still like you very much Freya, I know it’s been hard on you to keep it all together up in Maine. You are so very wonderful and so very beautiful to me. Radiant- Rare I love you so very much.

I cry because I am so glad I am as good at heart that I truly know myself and I hope someday everyone can relate to a page out of my book of life.These are the things I’m proud of my relationships with my heart felt truths, the vows that even though I broke, I held on to forever and ever. The love in my heart that has only grown, the judgments I have made.

The time, a gift; the time with my pen, and the view of your growth. I watched you grow up. I am very proud to be amongst your associates I am glad. I know you will be fine. I am always in your heart. My faith is in you and when the drummer calls up the few to take the stand for the saints go marching in. “only child, rather mild, that’s right he smiled” the weight the wait the hour.

13 Stars

2008-08-23T11:21:00.002-04:00

Dale and Freya Forever

I shall come to you, I shall come to you unforgiven... Shall you forgive me?

a girl named Alice

2008-08-10T00:09:00.000-04:00

To you Freya: to your children of mine; to those who truly care.
13 stars one bar of 5 man alive. If and as I write this will you preceive it.What is to actually believe it. The 5 of us forever more, the 5 of us. That little beautiful family shall always be there in my heart, we shall never ever part, so far Cory Alley is the only one with us now.

Sooner or later one way or another, I shall come to you.If only in the air. Will you still feel me there? You will always be the one for me no matter what, don't let me slip away, in the stream of life.Say you'll always be my wife. The other night I dreamed you were playing basketball at the turnaround,may this always be, may this always be.That little cedar shingled house, with forest green roof and white trim windows.Ice pond and Stellas and the purple palace. A little girl named Alice. Tampa Everglades, The Aspen Valley to Kansas City Alley. Holiday Hill, Americans still.No one can take these memories away. I dreamed of you playing basketball at the turnaround, you were looking for me.

"Do my kisses burn, do they take your breath, you got a lesson to learn now, about the kiss of death
Sex on wheels.sex on wheels."

letter before a life sentence to prison...

2008-07-09T21:39:00.000-04:00

Dearest Darling Freya

I trust you are in good health, now I must implore that we speak of things bright, I wish things of you that as my wife I truly believe must occur. You hear me, and perhaps you can agree on some of these things. I apologize for seemingly being so serious. When you do come to visit we shall be together as one by mere view alone. When we are not physically together we are together in that space, where many speak of but few go.

We were torn apart that evening and you know I did say we will always be together.
I remember your lips on mine. No other will be as you nor shall I forget. I will be fair in this and keep you out of it as much as I can, you know I will be ok if I go down with all the blame. I shall keep that in my heart true and right I vow this to you. I have enjoyed writing you. I write a little and then rest sometime may pass then I write some more thank you for humoring me.

Page 1

::::pause

endings...

2008-07-08T00:01:00.003-04:00

a mans best friend

2008-07-07T23:56:00.000-04:00

the moon riddle

2008-06-27T11:31:00.002-04:00

miles...

2008-06-27T11:29:00.000-04:00

Goodness

2008-06-21T14:03:00.001-04:00

all alone...

2008-06-21T14:01:00.000-04:00

drawing with crosses

2008-06-21T13:57:00.000-04:00

Favorite People

2008-06-21T10:21:00.000-04:00

I added my blog list finally, if anyone wants to be added just tell me or deleted…
Also if you have any love letters or artwork from jail/prison,rehab,lost lovers that you want to add to the book:
Please feel free to contact me.

no one knows...

2008-06-17T17:13:00.001-04:00

I could have never known, love in my own heart, if it were not for you. I did not know that’s why I was always the way I am. You have made a mark on my heart, forever. Sometimes it takes a thousand to show one, sometimes one shows thousands. And only one shows rarely. Often is a word I seldom use. Later is the first thing I never choose. I am not as well as I should be for this fight, I must at this time tough it out. I can only watch and see the view. Someone once said “I will never ever leave you”. That voice was my own heart saying something no ears hear. No one believes me anymore. No one shall ever really know now. No one. Dale takes a step back, no one knows, no one. I would have never known, love in my own heart, if it were not for you. I have indeed laid down my life for those I love. There is no greater love. None. No one knows.

mountain view

2008-06-17T16:15:00.000-04:00

Passive Tones

2008-06-17T15:33:00.002-04:00

Dear Daisy and Cory:

Sunday evening I just got new cell #10 bottom bunk. There is no one here with me.
That’s the best way to be. Got a good hair cut today and got to see Freya. Don’t send me any money if you do they will just take it. Your mother really needs your help. I know you have your own life and much to deal with. Don’t let me down, she is a real good woman. The only thing important in life are love,home and family.
Don’t send any stamps if you do they will just take them too.

Love always
Dale H.

Performance: plus; passive tones, works for rights, flesh and bones.
Beyond the hearts and hearths of homes.
Behind in times and lines of domes.
Left out and all alone. Never ever known.

Now there was a time when I myself,
was spun by time and worthless wealth.
To the ocean floors deepest shelf, to gasp for air and cry for help.
To laugh aloud at my gift, and think that I had created it.
As if it came in self made kit.
Divine intuition I omit, never believing my own wit, would be exactly that.

As the rhythm and the beat, intervened for defeat, of these things now, I do repeat, the soul itself is so fleet. And without it all the cost, and without it all is lost. Never ever morning frost. Never ever slow goes the moss. Ever never taught, what is yours you have bought, and to yours it is sought. Nets cast in time, of time have caught. All wars fought. Nothing, Zero, Ought. The soul of man comes to the front. It is seen for what it is all at~ Once.

Performance: plus; passive tones, works for rights, flesh and bones.
The soul must leave the body alone. Have you not always known?

Long Dale Harper 07/15/1996

so many unsigned cards

2008-06-15T11:57:00.002-04:00

pretty in pink

2008-06-14T07:17:00.001-04:00

dale and daisy

2008-06-14T07:03:00.000-04:00

lucky friday the 13th

2008-06-13T10:40:00.004-04:00

despair of loneliness

2008-06-12T10:11:00.002-04:00

March 22, 1997
Dear Dad ~

I’m not doing so good anymore. So I haven’t written because I don’t want to depress you anymore, I know it must be bad enough in the tank. Now that you are out on the yard, when can you receive packages? I’m confused on what you’re allowed to have.

Mom has been sick twice with the flu she had to be in the hospital once. Annie has serve asthma and Faye is just plain crazy. I guess the party is over and everything is really fucked up.

I was in the cold from all this, it is a blessing and curse, not even a phone call for 4 years from you guys. I guess when you start shooting up in the arm nothing else matters.
I never knew where you were or if anyone was ok.

Now my other family meaning your side said they want nothing to do with us, they refer to us as the other clan. That’s fine if Jay and Lisa never wanted to talk to us. So be it.

Someday I hope to come out of the darkness that was created around me from hell.
I feel like I have to pay for your mistakes now. Was I really just born to suffer? Things will never be the same after your father is convicted of first degree murder. I just don’t understand what happen?

Well I hope you get to have fun at least with your schooling, I hope to get into college someday. Annie is having a hard time concentrating after being out of school for so long but I know she will catch up.

I love you, Daisy

song

2008-06-08T10:53:00.001-04:00

prison artwork

2008-06-08T10:51:00.001-04:00

remember

2008-06-08T10:50:00.001-04:00

Dale and Freya

2008-06-08T10:49:00.001-04:00

looking away

2008-06-08T10:47:00.001-04:00

quote

2008-06-07T11:17:00.001-04:00

“Some people are just hiding, because they wish someone cared enough to come and find them.” In Plain Sight

in memory of Katrina...

2008-05-30T18:10:00.003-04:00

To my dearest Daisy:

Well how are you doing these days? So you talked to Jay I hear, I’m glad of that, I’ve bragged him up to you and I’ve bragged you up to him, so you guys should know I have high opinions of you both. They’re already started to school down there, I guess that’s because there is so many people. He tells me that the two oldest are gymist. He’s got a real good job and he just loves it, says getting away from Maryland was the best thing he ever did, the last time he sent pictures of him and Lisa as kids pretty cool. So I guess I had to go to prison to get my kids back, pretty funny wouldn’t you say. I can’t tell just how many letters have actually gotten to you,

I didn’t get any mail for 36 days, so I’m thinking it may be the same going out as it is coming in, who knows, this lock down just gives them another opportunity to be lazier then they already are.
It’s a sin and shame that these people are people of this caliber, taking the tax payers money to do nothing, just sad. Oh well, so much for our government, hey? But we already know all of this. I’ve been enjoying watching the Olympics quite a lot.

Jay pretty much has got my mothers number , I’ve got to admit it surprised me some, especially after all she has said to them about me, and to me about them, I think maybe it getting her turn to face the music.

So I guess summer is coming to a close, I always liked the island in the fall. Even with all the shit that goes on there, I was always able to find peace with the seasonal beauty, and enjoy my time and space there. Do you ever go by the gravesite to see Katrina? She’ll always be that young girl I watched hitch hike out of the u-turn on that Sunday afternoon. It really hurt my feelings when she left us. I always did like your friend, Daisy.

It has finally evened out at about 95-100 degrees here, don’t matter to us, we’re all locked down anyway. I’ve gone through all my stuff and narrowed it way down, don’t have much at all, it’s a lot easier this way, especially when it comes to cleaning up and when they come in to search the cell, if they see you don’t have anything they just don’t bother you. Now Aaron McKinney, he has the first thing he ever got when he came to prison, he’s a fucking little pack rat. He’s still supposed to be on ABC in October or November. I don’t know what date around the beginning of the month. We will see if they really film it.

I got a card from Annie, I always enjoy reading her letters she’s is forth coming and just talks like we were sitting in the kitchen together. Have you kept in contact with the old aunts down in Florida, I’ve always asked but never got an answer.

Well they have updated us to having 2 hours a day out on the block, half of us at a time. There are 81 of us. So that’s about 40 at a time. There is no screaming on this block, no c-bonics or rap music even though there is one white guy that thinks he’s black.

We have about 10 Spanish or Indians that all came down here with us, so they are ok too! We have a clean rather respectful block of fellows, which is hard to find in a prison. This probably the best bunch of convicts anyone has ever seen. Mostly because of our age on average and the color of our skin.

So the lobster season is about to get underway good luck to you guys this season, I hope this letter finds you happy and well, tell the girls I said hello, and tell Faye I’ll write soon.
Keep on writing; try to contract your poems as perfect as they can possibly be. Not that they aren’t already, you understand. Don’t give up, keep your eyes open. Wide shut.

“Life is like, a mountain railway
With an engineer, that’s true and brave
Keep your hand upon the throttle and you eyes upon the rail
From the cradle to the grave.”

That’s not exactly probably how it goes, but you get my drift, I’m sure. Well I do miss you very very much and love you the same amount. Write soon.

Love Always
Dale H. your Dad

April,13th 2000

2008-05-28T08:38:00.003-04:00

To my dearest Freya:

Well I hope you receive this in time to celebrate our day. I thought you would surely have written to me by now, that’s what I get for thinking.

I’m sending some pics I cut out of the Smithsonian book.

The one is of Amelia Arhardt “courage” then there are some sketches of Zelda and F. Scott one drawing entitled Maines rocky coast then one of a moniteth from Ireland.

I thought of you when I saw this one of Amelia I’m sending my courage and hers to you on this day.

I hope you like this card; it made me think of us so long ago, as if it was only yesterday.

I have a whole bunch of these pics. As soon as the next month rolls around I’ll send some real good ones, I didn’t rip the book completely up, but I did indeed get the ones I wanted you to have. You’ll see the ones I especially like. There are some Jackson polluck, Picasso, there’s a repo of an oil of Tallulah Bankhead and on the other side is a photo of Walt Whitman at age 82 Tallulah was from Maryland.

Well I hope this winter has found you all of a healthy and happy one as you near spring.

I’ll be thinking of you on the 13th day of April happy anniversary Freya.

I love you very much.

Love Always, Dale H.

Inside the card:

04-13-00

I’ve known of you for 27 years. I’ve always loved you from the first time I laid eyes on you. I’ll be with you on this day and I’ll always be with you.

lived..

2008-05-26T13:11:00.003-04:00

Death Came

2008-05-26T13:05:00.002-04:00

june ...

2008-05-26T11:06:00.001-04:00

Dear Daisy and Cory:

Well here it is summer 2000, I hope you guys are doing good out there, make sure you tell Cory happy birthday late for me.

I got your birthday cards thank you very much. My mom turned 74 on 06/03/00 and Jimmy Harper will be 83 this year 12/21/00 (r.i.p.) pop-pop

They are doing ok. I keep in touch with them but they are sorta’ wacky.

I feel pretty much the same, I don’t guess I’ll ever grow up, I don’t know.

It sounds like Freya and the girls are doing as well as can be expected. I wish I was there to help them. How is Corys grandparents doing they must be getting old too!

I’m sending you some pictures I cut out, thought you’d find them interesting. You guys don’t get WB channel do you? I guess if you had a satellite you could.

I still need to hear from you on Tony Beardsley about his number and address. Let me know as soon as you can.

Well I hope you can send me some money even if its only $10.00, I hate to ask.

So I’ll see ya baby, I miss you very much and I love you very much

Love Always

Dale H. your Dad

untitled letter

2008-05-25T09:57:00.001-04:00

Dearest Daisy:

Well, how the hell are you, I’m writing to let you know some packages will be arriving, some by regular mail and others by UPS, I’m not sure how the island gets the mail these days but I hope it’s a safe trip. They finally moved us up here on the hill, to the new prison; it’s pretty much like one big jail. We have to all double up, I have a celly named John Rodrick, who is a friend of mine and so that makes it good. There aren’t a whole lot of people who I would cell up with, I’ve told them I wouldn’t give them any trouble, but if they try to put someone with me, like a child molester or rapist, they might as well just take me to the hole. I aint going to stand that shit.

Some of the people I’ve known all along are on this block, my best friend is Steve Mitchell and he’s over here. We’ve always lived in different buildings on the old yard, so that’s pretty cool. Also most of the people that were on my block on my old site are here too. Dirty Ron, Gifford Gary Capshaw, Bobby de Spain, Sprout Charlie Lopez. Charlie Lopez is that guy who killed his wife in that house Danny and Sue bought on the west side. He got down here years ago and killed a guard, he has real anger problems.

I don’t know if I ever told you or not but those that killed that one guard in 1997 one of them was one of those guys who killed that couple in Canada years ago, his name was Aaron Dodell.

Also I know Russell Henderson and Aaron Mc Kinney. They sent Russell to a max joint in Virginia and Mc Kinney is on this block. All this talk is probably scaring you, sorry I forget you’re a young lady, I just know I can say anything to you. I love you and miss you very much. Love Always Dale H. your Dad

eras end

2008-05-25T03:57:00.002-04:00

apple tree on Islesford, Maine

The Old Crossroad, Ice Pond

2008-05-23T17:29:00.004-04:00

Down by the edge of the earth
Where its starting, the long decline
As the ice, that stood until spring
All my sorrows bring

The great white rock, left by glacier gone
Where the ravens roost, on ice pond
A wood fire burns to ambers, and doesn’t
Last to long
Rolling Thunder, Heavenly Father come on
~ Ice Pond

My eyes see slight movement, without
A single sound, the sun it beams
Through window screens and moves
Along the ground
Into gray evening shade, takes it’s toll
of what is paid.

I can not imagine, how great my cost
Of all the time and love, I’ve lost
Winter steals my lifes' blood, with its final frost
Rolling Thunder, Heavenly Father, come on
~ Ice Pond.

Night Notes

2008-05-23T16:57:00.002-04:00

Expressions, on the face of time, are prolonged from the brain to the spine.The nerves accompany, life swings by a vine. Doubt crawls up, the other side. A potent author awaits the date, swinging up to deaths gate. Hopes to miss, but meets fate. The brain is asking"won't you wait?"

They went up the back way, all debts were paid.The blood and the cocaine, ran where you laid. The picture wasn't pretty, as the press relayed. In the distance, someone waited, in a room where she prayed.

Now the law is a looking, for the culprit in this case. No one even saw, or could identify a face. And the followed were true by no means, and the case was from a prosecutions dream. In the distance, someone waited slightly behind the scenes.

perfectly plain

2008-05-21T11:11:00.002-04:00

nursery rhymes...

2008-05-21T11:03:00.002-04:00

only child

2008-05-20T08:41:00.002-04:00

brick wall

2008-05-20T08:37:00.000-04:00

candle

2008-05-20T05:57:00.000-04:00

may the circle be unbroken

2008-05-17T21:32:00.000-04:00

To my Dearest Daisy:
Well I’m dropping you a line to see how you are doing, fine I hope. Well I turned 59, I’ll be lucky to make it to 60 if things don’t go right. I’m not sure how it’s all going to end. But you know me, I’m prepared for the worst, I don’t want you to be surprised, you see.

They say if the Wyo. Prison system to do right they can treat me and I’ll be ok for some time to come, its most likely going to take some lawyer threatening to get them to do anything right, mean while I’m going down hill, we’ll see I guess.

You three girls have always been my light since day one, I was real lucky that we spent all the time we did when we were younger, I do know it meant a lot to me.

I think that you have done real well with your life, you are a wonderful person. Much different then most, I’m proud to know you and glad to be your father.

You know having Jay & Lisa come to me this late in the game, could mean many things it makes me wonder, “May the circle be unbroken.”

I love you very, very, much. Love Always, Your Dad

LongTales

2008-05-15T07:49:00.003-04:00

let's go sailing away...

2008-05-14T18:42:00.002-04:00

untitled

2008-05-14T06:49:00.000-04:00

Old Coast Guard Station

2008-05-12T06:12:00.000-04:00

Love's Folly Farm, Maryland

2008-05-10T07:02:00.001-04:00

This is where Dale and Freya met, out by an old apple tree. Love's Folly was an underground railroad for the slaves.It's a charming and haunting example of the early Maryland days, built of brick soon after the birth of the nation , by Major John Dawson who still lies there in a small tree covered graveyard.

when the veil is lifted...

2008-05-09T07:03:00.000-04:00

Freya,

Well I’ve got my mail sent; I’m waiting for an envelope from the canteen to send yours off. So we made it to Texas, the biggest deal was the long bus ride in cuffs and leg restraints. I could barely stand up on the bus let alone pee that way. I’m sure you can guess, kind of humorous of course.

Nevada turned out real bad.

They say what happens in Vegas can stay in Vegas, well that’s what I want for sure, and they can have that stinking shit.

“Beyond the veil, when its lifted there’ll be Pasty, Mary and Blondie they’ll be looking at me rolling their big old eyes, and smiling. They’ll know it’s me and we’ll be happy to see one another. Ernest he’ll be shoveling corn into the elevator and loading the truck for the mill, I’ll be standing around, thinking I’m James Dean, Marlon Brando and Robert Mitchum all rolled in one. There are ham sandwiches for lunch with potato chips and ice tea, and there won’t be a soul around to do me any harm or want to hurt my feelings.
The old folks will be sitting by the fire, waiting for me to visit them. My old dog will stand up and stretch, and wag his tail at me, and lay back down with a grunt, I’ll go out by the Red Cedar Tree and smoke a chesterfield I know I aint suppose to do it, but I do anyway. Day will turn to night I’ll go to bed and sleep and dream of tomorrow.”

It’s certainly grand to live inside my head, to bad there is only room for one. It took me along time to realize how no one really feels how I do, I’m really a lucky guy, real lucky.Oh everybody listens because I tell a half way decent tale, but no-one really knows. I’ve told that story to people about you thinking something was wrong with your feet when your grandmother told you, you had the Delisser foot. I’ve always smiled at that, most everyone I tell smiles too. I wrote a short essay on you and you sister, and that “winters walk” you took when you over heard your friends parents talking about you. I’ve kept that story to myself for along time. I often think of it though.

Well today I’ll be getting my little stamp and envelope, so you’ll be getting this soon. I have a single cell; with my own shower I’ll tell ya it is grand. It’s okay if they forget I’m down here as far as I’m concerned. So it’s pretty much official there are more convicts from Wyoming out of the state then in the state. What the fuck? Hell there is even a 100 Wyoming girls here, but we are not allowed to get at each other. But we can see each other in the passing; there is a lot of showing of tits, naturally. I’m old but I’m not dead yet. Might as well be though, don’t have a family to take care of and no kitchen to fool around in, hell that’s no fun.

You can’t really direct any of the younger men here, about how they express their selves, the language they use, the impression they make etc. I never knew how many people in America really have no education. I guess I’m probably just as dumb but jesus, Freya.

I’ve drifted over to abstract cubism and abstract impressionism. It seems pretty natural for me and I love doing it. After a piece is complete I contemplate it and I observe things I did not see while in the commission of creating it. There is so much to it; well it’s just something for me that’s all.
I’ve became pretty good buddies with Ashley by mail she is much like daisy in how she sees things her art is impressionistic and slightly unique. She struggles with the split race thing, I think her boyfriend is ok he’s a black kid. She just wants to graduate and get on with life. Lisa tells me that since Ashley has been in communication with me she’s became more understanding around her family group. It could be maybe it’s just that she’s growing up. Well give my address to one of the three.
Love, Dale

circle of friends...

2008-05-08T08:37:00.000-04:00

more unopened cards, until now...

2008-05-07T16:51:00.000-04:00

love that never dies...

2008-05-07T11:22:00.000-04:00

long distance hug

2008-05-07T10:56:00.000-04:00

beautiful drawing

2008-05-06T07:57:00.000-04:00

Courtroom Shuffle...

2008-05-03T09:31:00.000-04:00

The security guard in the Federal State Building was a very un-charming soulless being.
With his black striped pants and one squinted eye he yelled at us down the hallways.
“Where are you going?”

The disenchanting court scenario is always a prolonging experience. They were running behind schedule, so we listened to the guard talk about being a warden in the New Mexico jails. He went on about how they would try to make jail house wine with rotten fruit and yeast. They could smell it brewing so they would shake down the place and find all the things the prisoners were hiding.

I mentioned how the jails in Arizona were really bad and he acted as if the Sheriff Joe Arpaio is some kind of hero to him and that he really knew what he was doing and how to make them pay their dues so to speak. I just nodded in disbelief and just kept my mouth shut the rest of the time.

I already didn’t like him now and I could tell he was so scared of his own shadow, being a cop in New Mexico had some effect on him. But now he was just a guard and he was more of an empty shell of a body letting the system wear him down. He went on about a new subject now it was a vacation he had taken with his wife to Ireland. He kept complaining as if everything that had happen on the trip was a rip off from the very beginning or some kind of tourist scam. He said “They didn’t even roll out the red carpet for us when we got there.”

Just because he was American in some far away haunted castle in Ireland, I guess he thought he would get some kind of special treatment. Acting like he had been scammed by the car rental place for being a tourist, he thought it was fine if the prisoners never got to watch television except two channels the Disney and News channel and be in 120 degree tents.

I don’t think he realized he was in his own jail everyday; he just never will enjoy life and all of its beauty the way you do in happiness. Something I knew so well after living on the tiny island of isolation for so long. The roads were to narrow to pull over to take any photos they thought. Maybe it is their narrow minded way of thinking that stopped them from enjoying the vacation. While he went away for a break the other security guard said “Well his wife and him were just two lost people over there.”
DaisyLions Inc. Kisses Etc.©2008

On your silver rails,Through the moonlight

2008-05-02T06:31:00.000-04:00

Down the mountainside
To the coastline
Past the angry tide
The mighty diesel whines...neil young

haunting notion of an outlaw...

2008-04-30T06:51:00.000-04:00

"Were you expecting my call?" he said. I said yes. His voice didn't sound familiar; as we talked about the past, I could tell he was searching for answers. Like all of us do, we want to know about our family sooner or later someone wants to know something. In the end we decided life was too short and nothing really matters. There will always be that doubt or wonder if we didn't lose touch all the years over and over. It's almost been 10 years ago one hateful letter of the lie, kept an already dysfunctional family apart. His peace of mind was to forgive, my brother.

Our past still whispers to us in our childhood memories. We're strangers but share the same blood of reality. Things we don't want to say anything about, hand to mouth. I have a feeling my brother was very alone, like I feel now without a father, and the legend that still lives on followed him and he grew up without a father anyway, just the haunting notion of an outlaw, must've had a tough time. I said, "You turn out to be the most successful out of us all though." It's sad to have to question yourself because of someone you use to look up to as a role model or automatically assume you are going to turn out to be like the person that raised you. To feel so much pain just because you have unconditional love and never can find any in return.

Today is a good day to die I thought to myself like I do often. I can't even find anyone to help me and then he called. I just thought it would be the best way to go, on the blue moon, on someone's birthday. There just seems to be no end to this pain I feel and yet so empty in arms and inside. I just want to say good-bye to the world fuck you for nothing. But I really do love life's mysteries.

DaisyLions Inc. Kisses Etc. ©2004