It's The Little Things

You're going to miss me,

but not for the reasons 

you think.

You probably never noticed

the salt and pepper shakers 

were always full

that was me,

or how the vacuum cleaner bag

was always empty

and the cord magically redone

after you shoved them 

unceremoniously back into the closet

in a fit of housecleaning rage

me also,

or the couch pillows returned 

to their proper order by size and pattern

but slightly askew to show casual style

and our snuggly couch blanket folded and ready

for another night of watching your latest

conspiracy theory documentaries 

and the collection of remote controls 

in an orderly row on the coffee table

at the ready with fresh batteries

me again,

and the dogs latest bone

removed from harm's way

of midnight barefoot trips to the bathroom

yeah, me.

So, before I forget

garbage goes out on Wednesday night

you should clean the espresso maker 

with white vinegar when it gets slow

you mow the lawn

shorter in winter

and longer in summer

change the water filter once a month

and the smoke alarm batteries 

on New Year's Day

and please be careful on the ladder 

when getting down the holiday decorations

(trust me, there are no killer spiders in the attic).


Call any time if you have questions.

Ken Owen   Van Niddy Press   November 2014