Skipping

Holding Mom's hand,
Walking to the city bus stop.

Just past the candy store.

Talking quietly about the world of a 4-year-old.

Full of promise and wonder.

The bus, full of strangers and experiences.

The child, full of questions.

Deposited at the library.

Storytime.

Kids.

Puppets,

Quiet.

It erupts into playtime,

Exploring nooks,

The crannies of a new space.

Being shushed by librarians,

Given books to read on the risers.

Holding hands,

Leaving the stories behind.

The bus takes us home.

Walking past the candy store.

Suddenly, a skill conquered.

Never done before.

Tried and failed, even that day.

Skipping.

Little walking jumps,

Down the sidewalk.

All the way home.

With mom close behind, smiling, clapping.

Skipping.

July 4, 2021