A PLATE with cheeses. Two knives artfully arranged. Basket with a selection of breads and crackers. Bottle of water. Carafe of wine. Two glasses.

I CHOSE carefully, with you in mind. Thinking and considering what would please and delight. A plate of fruit – picked to tempt and tantalize. Contrasts of colors and textures. Focus on just the right level of ripeness in the pear. Crisp and sharp for the apple. Soft and sensuous for the berries.

Every item expresses gratitude. Each piece says welcome. My heart full – appreciative that you wanted to make the DRIVE, make the effort to see me.

Other lovers might take a different measure – be impressed by the elegant restaurant, the need to stand in a QUEUE for the hard to get in spot, a brag that I had to bribe and wheedle a reservation at such and such a place.

Not for us. This, this simple homely display is more than enough.

I make a few small adjustments and sit. Holding the tension between confidence and vulnerability, waiting for you to complete the scene.

Georg’ann

He moves like the tin man
stilted, unbalanced.
EXTRA focus needed to move
from one place to the next.

Lacking POISE is an adjustment
for this man who used to run
and dance, move with a swagger.

We don’t DELVE too deeply
on the loss of grace.
Many are the laden conversations
we don’t have after he struggles
to stand in QUEUE for this or that.

I walk ahead, beside, or behind
ready to steady should the tilt topple.
Sometimes we walk independently,
as if in the past.
Or apart in some place far less honorable.

Heather