(for Terri, the day after her birthday
as I arrive for an in-person visit)

•••

We visit now, sometimes write together,
onscreen, my distant friend,

but somehow the miles melt as we talk,
as Quince makes an appearance,

as our long conversation continues,
not distant at all, but alive with stories.

You tour me around your workroom,
point me out the window toward

the pines and cobalt saltwater that
infuse you, inspire your words, your

your latest art pieces, that, thanks to
zooming magic, allow my aging eyes

to see you close up, almost better
than in person. No distance at all.

And that mammoth kitty in the picture
makes us both smile as he strolls

by, prompting me to reach toward
my screen, my hand ready to pat,

my arms sending you a hug.