Mountain Biking

The impatient fingers of fall tap the trailer
disappointed droplets want to be snow
but divert into rivulets over summer
worn dust layers

Impatient fingers of son tap the table
anxious to test large limbs on small mountains
traverse rocky switchbacks
attain single-track supremacy

Heart in my throat, I pant along
trail behind, watch his back,
peddle madly, climb for hours, plant my face
in soft dirt, bike askew

Clouds collude with autumn chill
mountains partner to block cellphone signals
alarmed, I pray search parties
will find my sanity, tap an SOS

Board Meeting

I want to publish minutes
about you. a real writer
manuscript in hand
read aloud to my tears

You try not to sleep
as we journey home
converse about nerves
and a long overdue obedience

your gentle snore assures
no pretense is necessary
I drive more awake
comforted by your repose

relaxed in the construction
of friendship that keeps the faith
navigates the detours
breathes the paving of peace