Joe and Ann Downsize

Ghosts of the past wander Through rooms dusty, too hard to keep. Joe and Ann remember when they were new. Heavy burgundy drapes still hang in Joe’s library, Where will his books go when he is through Picking and choosing the loved ones to keep? Fifty years ago, Ann loved the roses; Roses on cream wallpaper And a lace trimmed lamp. Now they nearly choke her, and She’ll gladly say goodbye for Light and space and ease. Those etched glass door panels will Follow them to their duplex, To add a bit of nostalgic elegance. Voices of children echo but They never come home anymore, One little guest bedroom will do. Joe and Ann walk hand in hand With a well-up of tears, but Know they’ll be happier when They make the break from Old fashioned years to downsize, And rock away in the twilight.