"I had always been like this; only able to recognize my world by reassembling it on the page." -Melanie Benjamin
Author: Sarah Ritter
Sarah Ritter is a poet and writer who recently published her first illustrated book: "Dad, Won't You Walk With Me." In this story, a young girl invites her dad to walk with her through the most important events of her life. Sarah Ritter previously published her first poetry collection "Inspirations, Transformations and Revelations: A Poetic Expression of My Personal Journey" in 2019.
Sarah Ritter is also a contributing poet to the "We Are Beat Anthology" and the "Goddess Anthology" by The National Beat Poetry Foundation, as well as the "Connecticut Bards Northwest Poetry Review," "The Mondo," and "A Pathway to Dreams," published by Local Gems Press.
Her writing has been featured on CT Working Moms, Brave and Reckless and Whisper and the Roar.
In her spare time she enjoys making homemade greeting cards, mountain biking, running and writing. Sarah Ritter resides with her family in Connecticut.
Her book can be found on Amazon at:
www.amazon.com/dp/1732550905
To order a signed copy of either book, please order from Etsy at:
www.etsy.com/shop/sarahritterbooks
Thinking of my dad on his birthday this past Sunday reminded me of so many memories I have with my dad. I love that I was able to share some of those memories with friends and families in my illustrated book: Dad, Won’t You Walk With Me?
This book is available in print, Kindle, and Audible through Amazon! If you have not had the opportunity to listen to the audio version of the book read by Mandy Michaels, I encourage all to do so!
Dad, Won’t You Walk With Me? Is available on Amazon
Sarah Ritter’s first illustrated book “Dad, Won’t You Walk With Me” and her first poetry book “Inspirations, Transformations and Revelations: A Poetic Expression of My Personal Journey” are available in paperback and e-book on Amazon, and on audio at Audible!
To listen to a few of Sarah Ritter’s poems featured in the “Inspirations, Transformations and Revelations: A Poetic Expression of My Personal Journey,” “Mondo” “CHAOS, A Poetry Vortex, click on the Bard’s Poetry Revolution Podcast episode featured on 04/04/20, 04/17/20 and 08/28/20.
Today is my dad’s birthday, and although we didn’t get to spend it together this year, I did get to talk to him to find out how he was celebrating the day. He told me that he took a nap and was watching the Tampa Bay Buccaneers football game. We talked about the weather in CT versus Florida, and he commented on what a nice day it was down in Florida compared to the cold snow in Connecticut. I asked if he had plans to go outside to enjoy the warm weather, and he said he did not.
After saying goodbye to my dad and wishing him a happy birthday, I relayed to David how the birthday conversation transpired. At first, I chuckled at the agenda for my dad’s birthday festivities since I’m not personally a fan of watching sports on tv. However, I do understand the enjoyment of taking it easy at home and rooting for your favorite team. So then I thought… well, that actually sounds like a nice, relaxing day.
In the last few years, I have had the opportunity to visit my dad occasionally and enjoy life in the slow lane with him. It is always a bit of an adjustment for me since I’m used to always being on the go or working on a project. Spending time with my dad in florida teaches me to appreciate the moments where I don’t have to work, think about a project, or motivate myself to tackle a to-do list. In return, I gain the opportunity to appreciate the simple things in life such as companionship, a funny TV show, a loyal pet, conversation, and those tiny moments of joy that otherwise could have been missed in an agenda-packed day.
Sp happy birthday, Dad! Keep on enjoying retired life!
Sarah Ritter’s first illustrated book “Dad, Won’t You Walk With Me” and her first poetry book “Inspirations, Transformations and Revelations: A Poetic Expression of My Personal Journey” are available in paperback and e-book on Amazon, and on audio at Audible!
To listen to a few of Sarah Ritter’s poems featured in the “Inspirations, Transformations and Revelations: A Poetic Expression of My Personal Journey,” “Mondo” “CHAOS, A Poetry Vortex, click on the Bard’s Poetry Revolution Podcast episode featured on 04/04/20, 04/17/20 and 08/28/20.
Happy birthday to Mom in Heaven. As I was taking down some Christmas decorations, I chose to leave these two angels up that Mom made. Over the years, Mom made many craft projects both with her craft group and on her own. Often, she would make something to give as Christmas gifts for everyone in the family.
I have many of her craft projects still, including seasonal decorations, decorated sweatshirts and quilts. Unfortunately, over time some of these items have experienced some wear and tear. While I have attempted to repair some of the simpler issues, I am not gifted at sewing.
However, I am fortunate to have my mother-in-law, who not only is skilled in crafts, inarticulate, quilting, but also understands the sentimentality of hand-made items. Therefore, I’ve been able to turn to her for help fixing some of the items my mom previously made.
In the last few years, she was able to fix quilts in which the stitching had loosened. This past week, she replaced the wings that had fallen off one of the wooden angels.
As I sit looking at the angels on my mom’s birthday, I am grateful for both my mom and mother-in-law. I am in awe with both of their craftsmanship and their abilities to show love through their crafts.
Sarah Ritter’s first illustrated book “Dad, Won’t You Walk With Me” and her first poetry book “Inspirations, Transformations and Revelations: A Poetic Expression of My Personal Journey” are available in paperback and e-book on Amazon, and on audio at Audible!
To listen to a few of Sarah Ritter’s poems featured in the “Inspirations, Transformations and Revelations: A Poetic Expression of My Personal Journey,” “Mondo” “CHAOS, A Poetry Vortex, click on the Bard’s Poetry Revolution Podcast episode featured on 04/04/20, 04/17/20 and 08/28/20.
My heart has thrown a lasso around yours I feel the connection between us grow tighter As my world revolves around yours Spinning me around and around in delight Until I am wrapped around your finger But I don’t mind… So long as it means that I spend every day With my arms wrapped around you
Sarah Ritter’s first illustrated book “Dad, Won’t You Walk With Me” and her first poetry book “Inspirations, Transformations and Revelations: A Poetic Expression of My Personal Journey” are available in paperback and e-book on Amazon, and on audio at Audible!
To listen to a few of Sarah Ritter’s poems featured in the “Inspirations, Transformations and Revelations: A Poetic Expression of My Personal Journey,” “Mondo” “CHAOS, A Poetry Vortex, click on the Bard’s Poetry Revolution Podcast episode featured on 04/04/20, 04/17/20 and 08/28/20.
We are partners in the dance of life As we play musical chairs with scheduled activities Whirling around and around on high alert Our eyes focus as we watch our surroundings Our heads tilt as we listen to the music Waiting for silence to announce when to sit down Then we scramble to the remaining open seat And talk and giggle about our crazy days
We are partners in the dance of life As we line up for a contra dance of chores Swirling around and around the room Gliding effortlessly at each transition in the song A few words exchanged, a quick kiss on the lips We hold each other’s places until the other returns But our eyes are always fixed on each other from afar As we await the rotation to bring us back to each other
We are partners in the dance of life As we dance to a special song just for us Twirling around and around in unison Our arms stretched around each other’s bodies Our feet move to match each other’s pace Our hearts beating in sync with the melody As we end the night not only as dance partners But as partners in the life we have created together
Sarah Ritter’s first illustrated book “Dad, Won’t You Walk With Me” and her first poetry book “Inspirations, Transformations and Revelations: A Poetic Expression of My Personal Journey” are available in paperback and e-book on Amazon, and on audio at Audible!
To listen to a few of Sarah Ritter’s poems featured in the “Inspirations, Transformations and Revelations: A Poetic Expression of My Personal Journey,” “Mondo” “CHAOS, A Poetry Vortex, click on the Bard’s Poetry Revolution Podcast episode featured on 04/04/20, 04/17/20 and 08/28/20.
Where did the time go? I was supposed to be watching the clock But, I swear the minute hand Joined hands with the hour And disappeared from the clockface To a place where time does not exist
And when the two hands emerged I pondered how time could have Ticked by so unnoticed How the hands had taken such long strides Over each minute mark That they completely ran away from me
I did not catch the time Until the stories had been told The conversation and laughter run dry The glasses emptied and plates cleared When time had been transcended By our single visit together
Sarah Ritter’s first illustrated book “Dad, Won’t You Walk With Me” and her first poetry book “Inspirations, Transformations and Revelations: A Poetic Expression of My Personal Journey” are available in paperback and e-book on Amazon, and on audio at Audible!
To listen to a few of Sarah Ritter’s poems featured in the “Inspirations, Transformations and Revelations: A Poetic Expression of My Personal Journey,” “Mondo” “CHAOS, A Poetry Vortex, click on the Bard’s Poetry Revolution Podcast episode featured on 04/04/20, 04/17/20 and 08/28/20.
On this Father’s Day, I reflect on the many memories I have with my dad. I know I am lucky that he has been there for me: through good times and bad, through the happiest celebrations, and the hardest transitions in my life. As I grow older, I can always use my memories as lessons to guide me in life. However, I know Im lucky to be able to continue to learn from him since he is just a phone call or a plane ticket aw
I know as I look back on all the little moments throughout my life, his constant presence and values have shaped me to be who I am today.
Sarah Ritter’s first illustrated book “Dad, Won’t You Walk With Me” and her first poetry book “Inspirations, Transformations and Revelations: A Poetic Expression of My Personal Journey” are available in paperback and e-book on Amazon, and on audio at Audible!
To listen to a few of Sarah Ritter’s poems featured in the “Inspirations, Transformations and Revelations: A Poetic Expression of My Personal Journey,” “Mondo” “CHAOS, A Poetry Vortex, click on the Bard’s Poetry Revolution Podcast episode featured on 04/04/20, 04/17/20 and 08/28/20.
Eighteen years ago, my mom joined her parents in her heavenly home. While I think of her often, I think of her most at night when the moonlight and the starlight feel as though they transform to portals of communication between Heaven and Earth.
Her first book “Inspirations, Transformations and Revelations: A Poetic Expression of My Personal Journey” is available in paperback and e-book on Amazon!
The book is available to purchase in person at Burgundy Books in Old Saybrook, Connecticut, and That Book Store in her hometown of Wethersfield, Connecticut
If you are would like to order a signed and personalized copy of either book, please order from Etsy or e-mail me at sarahritterwriter@gmail.com
To listen to a few of Sarah Ritter’s poems featured in the “Inspirations, Transformations and Revelations: A Poetic Expression of My Personal Journey,” click on the Bard’s Poetry Revolution Podcast episode featured on 04/04/20.
To listen to the “Mondo” collaboration between poet John Dutton and Sarah Ritter, click on the Bard’s Poetry Revolution Podcast episode featured on 04/17/20.
To listen to Sarah Ritter’s poem “Books,” featured in “CHAOS, A Poetry Vortex,” click on the Bard’s Poetry Revolution Podcast episode featured on 08/28/20.
Last weekend, I had the opportunity to participate in the Mother’s Day Sip & Shop! This event was hosted at the Bad Dog Brewing Company in Torrington, Connecticut.
Sarah Ritter’s Table Display
Two levels of Bad Dog Brewing Company were filled with artists, artisans, and vendors offering a variety of crafts and merchandise. People who attended the event were able to peruse the vendor tables while sipping on their favorite drink from the Bad Dog Brewing Company.
I had my books and greeting cards available for purchase. Attendees were able to purchase signed copies of Dad, Won’t You Walk With Me?” and “Inspirations, Transformations and Revelations: A Poetic Expression of My Personal Journey.” Greeting cards celebrating Mother’s Day, as well as other holidays and celebrations were available. I showcased many of the greetings cards available in braille, too.
Books and Cards for Purchase
Food was also available via a food truck parked outside the building. I particularly enjoyed being able to catch up with a friend over dinner and drinks after the event was over. It was actually the first time I had ever tried plum cider, and I loved it!
Today is my dad’s 72nd birthday. I am so happy that I am able to celebrate his birthday with him in person this year! No matter what we decided to do together today I knew it was going to be a great day.
One of the things I’ve been thinking about is how my dad always set an example of how to appreciate the outdoors. Over the years, he has shown me how you don’t need to travel far, move fast, or climb high in order to do so. As a person who enjoys being on the go, I’ve often associated the outdoors with physical momentum. However, he has shown me how to appreciate nature with a quiet and still appreciation: sitting outside, sitting by the lake, or having a soft conversation in the yard.
At night time, particularly in the winter, I think of how we would all go outside as a family, especially during the winter. Some of my best memories with him are of taking walks together after the snow has fallen. The best walks were after a night of shoveling, but before the plows had come through and cleared the snow away. We would walk down the street, either sinking into the depth of the unplowed snow, or run as fast as we could, and skid above the icy compact snow.
This year for Dad’s birthday, I flew down to sunny Florida where despite the obvious climate differences, the outdoor temperatures are surprisingly similar to Connecticut lately. We waited for the weather to warm up, (because Florida residents think 50 degrees is cold) and went for a lap around the neighborhood.
Today, we decided to forgo a walk, and instead embarked upon the exciting adventure of gold cart riding through the neighborhood. Today, instead of geo caching, a hobby I’ve come to enjoy, we set upon a real-life treasure hunt through the neighborhood searching for free items available to the community. Today, our search did not disappoint, as we came across a nice souvenier that I could take home in remembrance of my time together with Dad on his 72nd birthday!
Her first book “Inspirations, Transformations and Revelations: A Poetic Expression of My Personal Journey” is available in paperback and e-book on Amazon!
The book is available to purchase in person at Burgundy Books in Old Saybrook, Connecticut, and That Book Store in her hometown of Wethersfield, Connecticut
If you are would like to order a signed and personalized copy of either book, please order from Etsy or e-mail me at sarahritterwriter@gmail.com
To listen to a few of Sarah Ritter’s poems featured in the “Inspirations, Transformations and Revelations: A Poetic Expression of My Personal Journey,” click on the Bard’s Poetry Revolution Podcast episode featured on 04/04/20.
To listen to the “Mondo” collaboration between poet John Dutton and Sarah Ritter, click on the Bard’s Poetry Revolution Podcast episode featured on 04/17/20.
To listen to Sarah Ritter’s poem “Books,” featured in “CHAOS, A Poetry Vortex,” click on the Bard’s Poetry Revolution Podcast episode featured on 08/28/20.
Sarah Ritter's Revelations...A Collection of My Poems & Short Stories 