Ten.One Thousand, Five Hundred & Twenty-Nine

1. Up before everyone. Room-darkening blinds.

2. I try to listen for the rain they promised but don’t hear anything.

3. A sliver of lightt.

4. We stand outside in the rain and wait. Take of football and parent group and the town. She says she likes to keep.her meetings short. I say we're on the same page.

5. Belgian waffle with strawberries, double the whipped cream. Diner coffee is sometimes the best coffee.

6. Glimpses of the ocean through rain-streaked windows.

7. The weather is slowing down the time.

8. The words run through my mind more than once. I know what this is. I've been here before.

9. I watch him on the sidelines and wonder how he feels.

10. Under the tent in my parka. Two cup o’ noodles, water, and skittles for me. Deflections, defensive touchdown, and a win for him.

11. House full of kids. Pizza. Water. Wine. Laughter. Thuds. I'm glad I brought my slippers.