The Chaos of Return

We're all back.
The whole family.
Together again.
Bang and crash,
Bodies and belongings,
In through the back door.

Sunburn, bee sting
And dirty washing.
Tired and overexcited.
Running inside
Squeals and screams
Too many requests

"Can I .....?"
"Could I.....?"
"Could you....?"
"Not right now, we aren't even in the door."
"I've got to make dinner."
"You've got all day tomorrow."

Then, as one by one,
The chaos of childhood retires
 I take a moment at the kitchen table.
The dinner dishes.

Yes, I've got all day,
Tomorrow.

The Rush of Leaving

Heart in my throat
Have I remembered
Everything?
All the animals fed?
The chooks water?
In this heat they go through so much.
I hope the sheep have enough.
It'll take ages if I have to fill their trough too.
Is that going to be enough food for the guinea pigs?
Piglets will be right they've got heaps.
Sorry doggies,
Can't let you off the chain today.
Don't look at me like that Opal.
No time for apples.
It's already eight and I haven't packed.
Just toss in a frock and a change of undies.
Toilet bag.
Thongs will be ok.
Better take a cardi.
That'll do or I will never get out of here.
Heart in my throat.
I never feel ready.