That’s my mom the homecoming queen sitting above the back seat. The “Gilbert” banner behind the car announces the Gilbert High School marching band as part of the parade.
5/7/5
– – – –
Dad Carries
Dad carries photograph
Through 50 years of living
Worn-out image of
…
Like and love and loss
To me photo purpose-served
Worn from wallet folds
…
To him instant gone
Daily loss without notice
Image thaws frozen
…
Gone hope and future
Instant sum of daily toll
Life of wears and tears
…
Our memories stay
As we fade little daily
When we’re not looking
…
Restore the image
So I see things as before
Hand me my glasses
…
Restore the image
Freeze again frozen times as
My frozen time thaws
– – – –
Mapping the Edge 
Todd, you’ve broken my heart this morning. I love this poem. The loss is felt in heart and in poem. Thank you. This is heartfelt and deep. I appreciate your honesty.
Glad you thought it was effective. It was so-so until it took an abrupt change in tone just before hitting publish.
When Terry looked at this pic, he immediately said, “I see Todd in that face”! Talking about your Mom. :))
That’s nice… But I’m glad you weren’t talking about Abdullah the Butcher!