One last poem before they shut off the Net access and I welcome the movers. This meditation is one three days without my Lex smiling at me across the dinner table; it’s also a remembrance of days before his loving help in the kitchen.
A SOLITARY PLACE SETTING
Dinner for one
Single chicken breast pounded, powdered with
a bit of flour, salt, pepper
No flourishes here; no guest to impress
Olive oil flashes as poultry meets
onion-green pepper-garlic melange,
the Holy Trinity of kitchen worship
A lonely head of broccoli pipes up, steaming
I sip Pinot Noir from a jelly jar
Finer glasses sit on the shelf
waiting for someone who will one day join me
chatting over chopping of veggies
as he compliments my talent
for producing perfect brown rice
The table is set now
One placemat, one napkin in its ring
One cat mrrrowing that it’s his suppertime, too
Swirling a second helped of wine, I wonder
when the Fates will serve me up
someone for whom presentation is everything
and dessert doesn’t come from the oven, but
the slow cooking of romance
© 2010 Amy Barlow Liberatore/Sharp Little Pencil
Sharp Little Pencil 
Charlie
Is that Tom Waits I hear playing low on the radio, wafting in from the other room, echoing from the empty walls, rolled up carpet, and moving boxes? Best wishes, my friend. It’s a change that’s been a long time coming.
Sharp Little Pencil
HA! Charlie, you nailed it. He’s singing Swordfish Trombones…
The rolled up carpets and moving boxes are now here in Madison, awaiting the rest of the unpacking… it’s a slow, deliberate process, and I’m still finding things to give to the AmVets, which is great. Love paring down. Gable the cat is now an experienced traveler who thinks this may still be an extended hotel stay… hate to break it to him, but he was glad to be reunited with his daddy, Lex! More later, love to all, Amy
Mary
That’s lovely and poignant Amy (and I think you meant helping rather than helped – sorry). Good luck with the move, glad there are dinners for two coming soon!
Sharp Little Pencil
Mary, thanks for the editing note, and no need to apologize. I value all feedback, comments, and constructive criticism. Wish I got more, actually! Don’t be shy…
Yes, I’m in Madison now, and the dinners are for two. Except when Lex has PM meetings… but that’s part of the gig! I’ll visit you soon, Mary, peace, A
Kim Nelson
This is it, isn’t it? Life and love and eating and writing all working together to create something beautiful. I adore this piece. Happy moving!
Sharp Little Pencil
Kim, you’ve got it just right. Thanks for saying such nice things. Once I’m done unpacking (in two years!!), I’ll be logging on to see what you’re up to.
Peace, A
Judith Craik
Dear Amy,
The loneliness in your poem is beautiful because it reminds me that you and Lex are really good to each other. You’re also very good for each other. Ahhhhhh.
Since the cat is still with you, is it safe to guess that you’re driving to Wisconsin? I know that long trips don’t scare you but I hope you’ll post the news of your safe arrival as soon as you can. And be sure to post all your number.
I’m so excited for you and Lex as you start your next chapter together.
All my love,
Judy
gloria
lovely poem.. enhancing the expectation of delicious romance:-)
Sharp Little Pencil
And Gloria, you are a romantic! Thanks so much for leaving a comment, my friend! Madison is in the midst of a blizzard and I’m thinking of SF nights… aaaah.
Talk to you soon, and stop by to comment whenever you like! I appreciate the feedback. Love, Amy
RJ Clarken
Ah…Amy. That was so poignant, but lovely. I really like “the slow cooking of romance.” Presentation is everything, indeed.
Sharp Little Pencil
I have to admit, I liked that line, too! (blush) Ah, and your thoughts on presentation, a nice thought! I’ll be on your site soon – still unpacking but had to post something to prove I’m still on earth! Loving Madison so far, even as the blizzard rages… Peace, A
Debbie
Beautiful, beautiful imagery. . .you always put me right in the spot. Emotionally too! wow! Take cares as you move!
Sharp Little Pencil
Debbie, we did complete the move, thank God for Gable, the 12-year-old cat who rather cottoned to the whole journey and likes his new home. The blizzard is raging outside and I’m praying for the homeless of Madison, Chicago, and other places tonight…
Thanks for the kind words, and I’ll be on your site soon, hon. Amy
gary
You and Lex were a breath of fresh, healthy, and warm air to me and Winie. I will missyou dearly. Abraham and Sarah are called to another place to pitch their tent and wait for other cosmic giggles to catch up with them.
shalom and grace, G.
ladynimue
quite impressive imagery and a haunting end ,,,
Sharp Little Pencil
Lady, I’ve not been on your site yet, but your comments are intriguing, so I shall venture forth! Thank you for stopping in and leaving a comment. Peace, Amy
ladynimue
I loved your comments .. totally !! Hope to read and see more of you 🙂
Sharp Little Pencil
RIght back atcha, Lady! Amy
Jessie carty
Lovely! Such great images. I’d love you to consider sending something to my Referential Magazine 🙂
Sharp Little Pencil
I’ll email you regarding Referential, Jessie. Once I’m settled here in Madison, I plan to do a lot of public readings, jazz gigs that combine a bit of poetry as well, and submissions. Thanks for thinking my material is that good – I really admire your work! Amy
poetcolette
Sweet. . .
and spicy!
Well done.
Can’t wait for more helpings of your awesomeness!
Sharp Little Pencil
Colette, I can’t wait to read up on other people’s blogs, including your own. It’s been like withdrawal (funny, considering today’s post), but I’ve been scribbling diligently during the move… thanks for the compliment! Be on your blog soon, love, A
Pearl Ketover Prilik
DELICIOUS!
Sharp Little Pencil
PKP, what a sweet comment, thanks! Move complete! Boxes to unpack… harrumph!!
Dick
This is great, Amy. At once sensual and sad. Lovely final stanza.
Sharp Little Pencil
Dick, I’m here in Madison after completing the move and really appreciate your kind words. Thanks so much – looking forward to getting back in the (poetic) saddle again. C’mon, Ole Bessie, we got us some writin’ to do!!