You love me

Sally Fields said it
best. Be they awards or page views,
validation’s sweet.

Hair stylist issues

Bad trim, worse blow dry.
Pitying looks from strangers.
Do I cut and run?

Second city

Unlike cold New York
you smile, take in all comers
with your midwest charm.

Friendship

She may have faults but
to me she’s flawless, a me
I wish I could be.

Writer friend

When she’s not funny
her raw candor grips readers
probing her deep wounds.

Coffee date

Conversational
buzz a backdrop to clinking
spoons stirring white clouds.

Other daughter’s boyfriend

Bandana over
his sweet smile, ninja to his
anime girlfriend.

Christmas cards

Photos we look bad
in. Braggy newsletter. That’s
how we keep in touch.

Away too long

Stories always tell
of the one who wanders, then
returns home…like me.

Online debate

Listserv fight breaks out.
Among civil people, the
retorts well-researched.