Each decade is a shock of revelation. True, by looking back we know we grow. We age, we laugh, we cry, we grieve, and the racing river of time does not cease. Wild hairs, fine lines that turned to wrinkles, the sagging body, the weakening…

I’ve noticed all the gray in my hair the lines upon my face I’ve noticed the weight gained the pain in my aching knees I’ve noticed not being able to bend the strength lost to stand again I’ve noticed the years as they pass In…

Like a paper old cocoon I have bent back the husk of another year and scuffled it open,   and only time will say if it reveals a dream or a nightmare.   J. Pratt-Walter 6/22/2019

The dog rolls over, her belly a map of the world — islands and continents freckled on a pink sea. Iceland soft and smooth with fine blond hairs. Polynesia. Sri Lanka. On the inner flank of her hind leg the Galapagos, where blue-footed boobies splatter…

I hear the change . . .  it’s in her voice . . . in her way. Mom is getting old; I don’t want to accept . . . she will one day leave. Leave me here; Alone. The world she protected me within; And…

Wake up . . . Reset iPhone alarm; What’s ten more minutes? Snuggle in . . . Can’t sleep! Of course… What’s new? Take another pill. Middle-age  . . Reach for the pill box; Safely by the bed. Morning, noon, evening and bed; One or…