June 5, 2001

Two days ago I gave your boots away
and as I watched those feet receding,
obviously delighted to have found
such sturdy,
size eleven,
steel toed,
black rubber boots,
I could see you.
The lilt of your lanky body
buoyant yet solid
whether twenty-two or ten.

Rubber boots!
For splashing in puddles
and working in the rain.
For mud pies and chain sawing timber
and exploring ocean beaches.
Truth is, I was always trying
to suit you in armor
and you really preferred Tevas.

Copyright © 2001-2003 Kristen Spexarth