A family dinner 

 Mom simmers sauce on the stove

 For the spaghetti. 

Hamburger, cans of tomato 

A bay leaf, a spoonful of oregano 

A sprinkle of garlic salt.

 One hand stirring, 

Using the pressure cooker: It’s our largest pot. 

And then opens cans of green beans to go with.

 This is dinner. 

 The table is set for eight around the Formica. 

Flatware, pink melamine plates, plastic drink cups 

A pitcher of milk from nonfat instant dry

 May I have more spaghetti please? 

Dessert is fruit cocktail 

Spooned into small glass dishes 

And each of us wishes for the single cherry 

 That graces each can. 

Please pass the milk. 

 Dad will have instant decaf after 

With saccharine In a stained pink coffee cup. 

And Mom, from where she sits, 

Will preside over the table, 

Guide the conversation, 

And watch the sunset 

 All at the same time.