Kids riding bicycles
frolicking about under
the lamp posts.
The smell of burgers that were previously cooked
on the grill out back. Fireflies dancing along the Midwestern skies
as if they were the Mississippi.

“Let’s watch a movie” called out by mother,
“Let’s watch, big brother!”
Said child as she raced down the stairs.
No school tomorrow
so who cares?

Daddy smoking a cigarette out on the
screened porch with brother. I help mommy do the dishes
but I’m not tall enough to reach the shelf.
We all come together to cuddle on the couch
and slouch.

We all watched TV together- it was simple.
After TV I go on to bed
like momma always said.
My momma helps me tuck in,
kissing my head with a grin.

“Goodnight my sweet child.”
I held onto my momma’s hand like
it would never be there again.
“Momma, please never let
these summer nights end.”