The first day of summer
was a week ago but
when we find out our two-year-old 
has something wrong with his teeth
I think of him that night
seeing lightning bugs for the first time
fingers outstretched, eyes full of glee
before he smashes them
between a chubby finger and thumb.

When I have to go to the doctor
for the third time in as many weeks
I think of our oldest that night
feeding a bonfire for the first time
running all over the yard to gather sticks and
watching the smoke and flame as it rises up 
before he runs out to find more.

When we’re threatened with eviction
I think of you that night
there with me for all the firsts
on the longest day
the shortest night
and how
so much
is still glowing.