afternoon ruined
by fits, girl drama, hot tears
door slams all around

revised plans depress
the youngest, innocent one
my couch cuddler

how red her eyes were
to think her sister was gone
how she loves us all

the mountains must wait
for a happier moment
free from prep tantrums

there is no freedom
from parent complexity
there is only hope

an afternoon saved
by the Pearl Street critters
that bring back our youth