today’s true story

is about a teenager

who still likes his hugs

outlines on the beach

where the castles stood —

anniversary

ginger snappy —

we all head back in

for our sweaters

the train whistle seems

lonelier than usual —

counting the hours

oh, flying squirrel —

no one will believe us

once we’re both home

busy all day

with forgetting

my father’s birthday

I was wrong

about those last leaves clinging —

they were letting go

sorry, bunny! —
that pesky car alarm
scares me, too