finding myself would be
harder
if I were lost

no one wants help
until it is
too late

goody two shoes
moves away from home
freedom is the key

freshly sharpened pencils
new blue denim
laughing in the hallway

nametag on
ready to hire
those to replace

adolescence
yikes
man

the red blanket
envelops her
a shiver

beside one Another
the bells ringing
denying who We are

she trades
a cotton dress
for satin

Easily distracted?
I notice things
worth loving.

wind and sand
water and booze
don't forget sunscreen

vacant pool
filled with leaves
instead of children

long days
the harvest scent
combine running lights

weathered teddy bear
nailed to a roadside cross
artificial flowers faded

eye contact
red faces
hello

lights out gossip
late night
giggling

forgot a towel
the cold wind
freezes my hair

empty seat at the
spelling bee
melancholy