The Holiday Without You

First Christmas without
you
Brings present memories
Growing up in a big family
Giftwrap like fallen leaves
Burns brightly in a fireplace bonfire
On Linden Avenue

You were always there
Stories, hugs, crowded cozy couches
Security.

I miss you
I miss your growl
As you nestle your nose in your wife's hair
And snuggle
I miss your appetite
For whatever is on the table
Your hunger and laughter

Holidays
Are nothing to complain about
though harder than expected
This year.
First without you Christmas

The grass is growing where you rest
But I cannot bear to see that quite yet.

Doug and Erica Get Married Today

His voice
echoing
Step by step
Note by note
Is a staircase of magic
While his bride's
Smile beckons joy
Fully

His heart, a traveling pathway
Finding self completely
with her spark
Igniting a room-filled
rose garden
Both, a beautiful dance

Across the horizon
stars and lights and
water shimmer
efforts evaporate

Let me hold you
In my arms and sing
I love you
I choose you
Forever