when the in laws would come for dinner

she would take out the good

china

when her parents came over,

her sister too.

the silverware

would be lifted

from the velvet box.

the crystal glasses, showered

and free of dust.

the delicate cups and saucers

for after dinner

tea.

suddenly a bouquet of flowers

was on the table.

a fine linen cloth spread

white across the wood.

the house was clean,

it smelled of lavender and jasmine.

a gourmet meal would be

prepared, not

unlike Babette's Feast.

the best wine uncorked.

sparkling water

in green bottles poured.

there were

deserts and sweets.

music would be playing low.

candles lit.

there'd be no arguing.

just peace.

oh what a day and night

it would be.

i miss her parents and her,

but only for

those reasons.