I found myself calling her "sweetie" in a text message and later when I hugged her good morning. I've known her for over 20 years and I've never called her "sweetie" before. The day before, we'd made a plan for me to take her to get her bloodwork done today. Then, early … [Read more...]

If I were a hiking trail,people would know about me, but would not often choose me as a destination. I am off the beaten path,easy to find, and easy to forget; tidy and groomed,perhaps intimidatingand uncomfortable. I am welcoming, designed to behelpful and accessible.Yet … [Read more...]

Based on "Tonsure" by Kevin Young Forever you findthe taste of maraschino cherriesreminding you of those after work cocktails.He would give you a cherrywhile behind the barmixing his Manhattan.The name Vermouth, strange, on the bottle.This was the ritual,hero worship.He would … [Read more...]

Avalon, New Jersey There's a whole beach and two little boys land in a spot nearby, next to me. I've come here, alone, to take some timefor calm reflection.I feel proud for seeking this moment. Nestled in a beach chair, I look down at my sun-screened thighsreflecting the … [Read more...]

Based on "Still life," by Camille Dungy The still life painting of my life right nowhas a bunch of fragrant, colorful flowers, overflowing a simple, large-bottomed pitcherused as a vase. There are petals fallen to the table beneath, sprinkled on a common still-lifebowl of … [Read more...]