Best Fiftieth Poems

Welcome to the over-the-hill gang.
We're so glad you're finally here.
We know it's a wee bit scary
knowing old age is near.

It's now perfectly acceptable
to be in bed before nine
and of course it's time to substitute
Geritol for wine.

Feel free to bang your walking stick
and scream at young...

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Congratulations! You've now lived
a full half-century.
I'll bet you're asking, "What's in store?
What changes will I see?"

As one well past her fiftieth,
I know a thing or two.
Sit back, relax, and listen up
as I enlighten you.

First, you'll become quite popular.
Six times a month you'll see
a letter from...

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jackolanturns grin 
atop rolls of dry fodder
strains of music float
all eyes watch the couple dance
they see only each other
~//~
fine country setting
whiffs of barbeque remain
the chaffing dish warm
old friends who now sipping wine
reflect on their own journey
~//~
cake patiently waits
two aged hands cut the first slice
they sample...

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Thinking back on my all White
but One,
all Right
but One,
classroom learning experience,

I can see why
many of my straight white male classmates,
especially those with early varsity team excellence
and above average grade point systems
tipping toward future capital-valued employment
might feel disappointed,
sometimes angry,
about what feels like insufficient lifetime affirmation,

Hungering for...

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Our three children have decided to surprise us.
Two could.
The third probably shouldn’t.

Two do not mind mess.
One is persnickety.
I have not cleaned a room in over two years.

I went on strike two March’s past
When my husband brought home nine drum sets
There was no floor space before.

You...

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