In the bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and office
The empty boxes are ready to be filled
Retrieved from storage in our basement
Already labeled from previous trips
In a few days we will travel to our winter quarters
Having prepared our house to be inhabited
By my daughter and her partner as they transition
Taking the season to decide upon their next move
Good for us making room in closets and drawers
Donating clothes we will never wear again
Recycling old electronic devices
Consolidating shelf space for them to use
Good for us our house will be occupied
Giving them a place to live while we are away
Watering our many house plants as needed
Perhaps keeping the birds in seed and suet
Good for them to have a two-step process
Taking the opportunity to terminate their lease now
Moving out of a place that has lost its initial charm
Having a winter sojourn here before moving on
Being surrounded by our objects and decor
Feeling our presence in our absence
As they shelter here enjoying being together
May these rooms enclose them in a loving embrace
