Trip to Italy

Italian summer heat pervades the house.

Outside the orange trees, heavy with fruit.

Lounging half naked on the fainting couch.

Antsy, I take off my wet bathing suit.

I change into my light, flowing tulle gown,

I watch as fireflies frolic on the lawn.

Asking friends to dinner, please come sit down

We have roasted eggplant and Parmesan.

After eating, I lie hot in my bed,

waiting for morning, mum's birthday party.

Analyzing the day and things I said.

Tomorrow we'll eat cake and drink ice tea.

I'll take out canvas and watercolors,

and paint her a sea and field of flowers.