Here in Florida

Every family has its dance.  After over twenty years I am still learning the steps of my beloved's family.  Merry Christmas.  Happy Hanukkah.

Here in Florida

I come and go

Do what I can

Take a break

Then disappear.

Then reappear.

Here in Florida

A party means figuring out

How to fit the same eleven people

Around the same table

As last year

And the year before.

A party means

Appetizers of olives and cream cheese

Figured out

Three hours ahead of time.

It means

Lost Christmas gifts

For those who celebrate

Hanukkah.

Here in Florida

I figure the same things

Every year.

I come and go

Do what I can

Take a break.

Then disappear.

Then reappear.