I was taken aback at the welling of tears in my eyes
Like a genuine “surprise” birthday party
Where you really, really didn’t have any idea
          [I’ve always planned my own parties]
So maybe more like
...Chopping onions
No matter – the tears were there

I know there was nothing but chipped polish
On those pudgy piggy toes
Though most were covered with tights
          In pink and white
But one odd ball with black – she was mismatched
[My mom would have dressed me that way]
If I were her, I would have cried

None had shoes – yet – “shoe day” is next month, you see
A designated day to order your very own Capezios
Better than the nasty, generic Wal-Mart ones
          But all – ALL OF THEM [Even the odd ball in black tights]
Were in pink leotards
Some plain – most with lots of rosettes or pink satin bows
Tulle tutus and chiffon skirts

I wanted to bottle the feeling – the moment
Get sloppy high on the giggles & smiles
Some were carried on a hip but most skipped
          Down the crooked and cracked sidewalk
Holding the hand of a relieved and proud parent
Where the hell was my camera [what camera]?
I wanted a picture to hide under my pillow