(Previously published)

Each day begins
like this: 

I lie here
eyes open
waiting. 

You arise seeming spry as ever 
go to the window lower the shade 
turn and tell me you need another forty winks 
and give me one merry as ever 

And I lie here 
Ever the curmudgeon waiting 
for you to crawl back in bed 
and cuddle me 

When your breathing 
acquires a certain tempo
I arise give you a little peck 
on whatever part is out of the covers 
I say I love you 

Umm, you say 

I get dressed 
close the door
feed the dog 
put the coffee on
remove anything that might cause a stumble

I place your walker
facing properly
next to the door
Then I set your place at the table 
so you will know where to sit.