The storage unit opens with ease. Boxes are stacked floor to ceiling. I begin, taking out a box, cutting or pulling off tape, opening to view the contents. Here, the SPOUT is broken on one pitcher. There, I REACH in and shake out an old t-shirt, stamped with tour dates from a concert at a nearby ARENA. Layers of a life lay before us, exposed, BARED to our scrutiny. We do this loving act, supporting family by digging in and helping. No judgment, no shame. And no need to lay bets or WAGER if this day will come for us. I doubt anyone is EAGER to see the inevitable come, but we ponder, silently, trying to imagine what lies ahead in our own journeys.

Georg’ann

14, out on the town

Unplanned we MATCH
in shades of plum.
Hair upswept, lips tinted.
Think we are all that and more
PAUSE briefly to mutually admire
depart quickly, arrive EARLY
EAGER for our first opera.
Eyes rove across grandeur.
Bodies electric with excitement.
Swelling with self determined
sophistication. Curtain rises.
Too soon restless, caged.
Whisper a plan. Depart quietly.
Go for coffee at the Spoon.
Giggle obnoxiously.

Heather