Shaggy strands of sun drenched hair
feather down to tickle downy brows.
Peace Lily petal white and water-winged
arms outstretch to anticipated fingers.
Round belly, still innocence-distended,
tucks into the crinkled waistband
of scratchy, yellow swim shorts.
Blinks of legs peek beneath the hems,
taper in a gentle hurry to be anchored
by yet novice ankles. Archless feet
pulse with wiggles from plump little toes
peering out in trust, just
beyond the concrete ledge.
Catherine Favole Gruber 