A Summer’s Morning

The kids rise early. And I not til 8:00. Or later.

Legos lying in organized clutter on the blue rug,

Carrying case cast aside as construction plans sprouted.

I ask if teeth have been brushed.

Ben says he doesn’t think so, but maybe,

As he heads toward the living room,

Looking for inspiration for another project.

Emily appears in her bathing suit, nearly ready for swim practice,

Handing me the hairbrush and sun lotion expectantly,

And sure of the summer’s morning routine.

To the pool. To practice.

Gray overcast skies, smart wind keeping things cool.

Waiting for sun at mid-morning, sure it will come.

Smell of chlorine, of damp towels, of sprinkled lawns.

Sight of young freckled faces, of clumped, clinging, slight green hair.

Sound of coach Daryn “One’s Go…Two’s Go…,”

Of breaking water, battered by flickering fast feet.

Chatting moms, checking schedules, swapping tales,

Then moving on to a summer’s afternoon.