now that we live in a big, old house
and not a city apartment.
We tied the tree
to the top of Mom’s RAV4
and made our way
through back roads covered in snow
and glorious sparkling sunlight.
Once home, we set up the tree
in our front living room window
right next to the fireplace.
I made hot chocolate, and then we watchedElf
while we decorated the branches.
It was the most perfect Saturday we’ve had
all togetherin a long time.
Now, weaving through the halls of Lansing High
the green, red, and gold decorations
lining the walls greet me with cheer
and I can’t help but smile
as “Carol of the Bells” builds in momentum
and volume in my ear.
Just as it’s getting to the really good part
the music fades out
and I hear my phone ding with a message.
Lyric:Meet me in the media lab at lunch?
I have a proposition for you.
I immediately text back:
OK. Sure. See you then.
I was hoping I’d have
some contact with Lyric today
but this is more enthusiastic
