Finally
I rise from the blue wingback chair,
put away the holly centerpiece,
its red candle dwindled and spent.

I remove the lace tablecloth,
shake out the memories--the favorites
floating through delicate threads.

Vigorously I wipe the table,
affirming the slowdown
is passing--has passed--is over,

I dress the trestle table
with fresh oranges cradled in milk glass.
Again I glance at the gold mesh sleigh
still carrying cards, wishes
for all that is good. I

jump into a new year--
it's time--the Three Kings
have come and gone!
...a woman of wisdom
has come to stay.

I skip over resolutions
and go for my dream.

From Simple Awakenings (Linebyline Press, 2010).
Used here with permission.