Susan Armstrong-Finnerty (The Cosmic Rhymer) posted a rhyme a day online in 2024 and has now published the full collection.
As she approached her 60th Birthday, Susan decided to post a rhyme a day on X.
2024 being a leap year, this resulted in 366 rhymes, many based around her life in Skipton.
With a degree in English and Drama, Susan says that rhyming has always been her passion:
"These poems are more than just a chronicle, they are a reflection of my soul - my beliefs, joys and values.
"Themes of kindness, colour therapy, self-care, astrology, crystals, nature and playful indulgence in life's fizz and fun weave through the verses."
Susan used daily writing as a 'meditative anchor' as she faced trials such as a health scare, a house move and festive holidays.
"Inspiration flowed from daily routines, beloved music, artists like Dolly Parton and quirky celebrations like cocktail day.
"I embraced sensitive topics, such as illness and loss, but sidestepped politics to focus on universal truths.
"What began as a personal project for friends and family grew into a global conversation with followers from a bee conservation charity to American fans delighting in my work."
One of Susan's poems, reflecting on her settlement in Skipton with her Husband, went as follows:
We found it by chance on a bright, breezy day,
A town full of charm, tucked gently away.
Skipton, its name — from the old “Sheep Town” days —
With lovely cobbled streets, it charms in a million ways.
A day trip, a stroll, just a thought in the air:
“This place,” we said softly, “we’d love living there.”
Years passed us by, but that spark never died;
When the need to move came, we let our hearts be our guide.
Now here we belong, where the Dales kisses the sky,
Where the weather never dampens spirits — though it gives a good try.
Susan Armstrong-Finnerty's (The Cosmic Rhymer) book, 'A Rainbow of Rhyme', with illustrations by Gerd Altmann, is available at Gemology, Craven Court, Skipton, and online at: thecosmicrhymer.myshopify.com
Spellman Care support Airedale Hospital & Community Charity's Easter Appeal
Skipton MP heads to Westminster to talk challenges within hospitality sector
Skipton man jailed for 18 years for sexual offences against children
The Geek Side announces closure before 10th anniversary
Skipon Multisport Festival to be held this May
Local attractions to close as Met Office issues yellow weather warning for wind
17 year old arrested following high speed pursuit from Skipton
The Coniston Hotel to remain under family ownership
Airedale Hospital introduces new service for prostate cancer
Appletreewick pub shortlisted in Countryside Alliance ‘Rural Oscars’
Yorkshire residents needed for new series of BBC's Gladiators
Taxi policy change could "finish off" industry, councillors warned
Skipton children’s charity collaborates with luxury makeup brand
Police appeal after two vehicle collision in Skipton
Village panto raises over £3,000 for good causes
Nominations open for Airedale NHS Foundation Trust Governor elections
Call for volunteers to tackle litterbugs in clean-up campaign
Community Centre in Silsden to hold two day sale fundraiser
Search for missing man continues
Skipton MP shares update on redevelopment of Airedale Hospital
