Thursday, September 4, 2014

back to school day


Back to school day in Wyckoff starts very early
For the new fifth grade teacher in her first class ever.
I take photographs of my daughter as she departs
Ready to greet the children in her class.

Back to school day fills the sidewalk here
In Leonia as I walk to the market early morning.
Children with their parents excited and happy
Greeting friends going to the next grade.

The crossing guard at Fort Lee Road is on high alert
Shouting at a driver who fails to heed his stop sign.
I imagine the arrival scene at Coolidge School in Wyckoff
Thinking good thoughts about my daughter’s first day.

My friend’s wife sees me and calls out as I wait to cross.
Her husband is away now for some months on business.
We talk about how hard it is for her and the children.
Later he texts me that he had some talk with them last night.

Tonight over dinner we will hear all about the big day
Then resume packing for our upcoming move in three weeks.
Tomorrow looks to be another good day.
It’s good to be together and sharing out lives.