Aw that is a cute poem. Know the feeling all too well.

This was sent to me by a friend who she and her DH are Army retired. Her DH is not happy with being retired and is scheduled to go back to either Iraq OR Afghanistan. She will stay homeside, to raise their daughter. Gosh bless her and her family! They are in their late 20's.

YOu asked for opinions--mine isn't about the poem itself--as far as the poem goes, whatever YOU feel fills the requirements of the contest is perfect, regardless of what others here may say. However, I've been competing (in another field) for almost 30 years. I know this is a small contest, not the national kind I compete in, but here's my problem with your post. And I say this only because it's good advice for anyone planning on entering a contest. You NEVER share or publish your work before the contest is judged and the winners announced. Often, in the fine print, there's an admonition against submitting published works (and yes, posting on the internet CAN be considered publishing by some sponsors). Even if there isn't, it's always best to keep your entry close to the vest, so to speak, just to protect it. I'd strongly recommend NOT putting your entry on any website at this point in the competition--it could end up costing you the chance to win. Obviously, that's just one opinion. You can certainly do what you want, but you're obviously putting a lot of thought and effort in this. It would be such a shame if someone either stole your entry, or disqualified it because it was easily found with a quick internet search.

This poem made me think of my Mom and how people treated her at the assisted care place. She died at 93 and still had good days where she could discuss anything in the news. And she had not so good days where she would stare into the distance. All said she was the sweetest person, she was never "crabby", forgetful and tired sometimes. I loved listening to the stories of her youth and talking to all the old folks that were there. I think some young people forget there is still a person inside with things to say. Love the poem, "When I am an Old Woman"!