On the MAPLE wood BOARD, I had arranged an ARRAY of cheeses, nuts, and breads. I added some rosemary sprigs, a few sprays of mint that had begun to flower, and finally a few twigs from the small-leafed and intensely scented thyme growing by the kitchen door. I surveyed the results with satisfaction. You would have thought that members of a papal CURIAE, CIRCA 1500 were arriving, instead of the priests from the local parish. Humming a little tune, I stepped away from the table. Just a few more minutes to get rid of this apron, touch up my hair, and they should be here. Tossing the apron aside, I headed upstairs, not noticing that the back door was ajar… Ah, if only I had noticed, so much would have been different that afternoon!

Georg’ann

Eclipse

In the parking lot I paused momentarily
to pet the skinny creature.
He wove through my legs, black fur dusty.
Re-entering the store,
I bought him a bit of food.
The next day I came again.
He was there.
My daughter was there.
Her father was there.
I ADORE clear signs
that confirm my impulses
The store owner and neighbors confirmed
he was a STRAY. We took him home.
After a few days his coat gleamed.
My mother said he was art in motion.
Every image would go VIRAL
if this wasn’t CIRCA late 90s,
before the posting culture.

Heather