Poetry

Merry Christmas, Then

We put up new curtains–tablecloths, as well.

We changed cushion covers; the house started to smell

Of new things, including the linoleum.

As cakes baked in the oven, Mom started to hum.

That Ole Tambran Tree in Bethesda–

I am telling you now that it is the

Keeper of secret tattles

Since the Daubs and the Wattles—

Keeper of secret sightings

Children, go and get your cousins:

Alfred’s children, all of them.

Just consider them your siblings.

I will treat you all the same.

I am taking you to Hatton

For