Starting over
like I’m fresh out
of college and dipping 
my toe in the adult pool.
Nearly eight years ago
I bought this house,
left chaos and damage 
behind to raise my
daughters in peace.
Since then I have worked, 
parented, gardened, 
woodworked, caregiven 
for elderly parents, paid bills,
 the number one responsible 
grown-up. 
Now, I’m rewriting my
future. Making plans 
without asking permission. 
Suddenly I feel the stress 
of a teenager given 
too much freedom 
and no boundaries. 

KW  6/27/23