I thought I’d be more protective
of our linen couch
but now I see pillows
as objects
that cover stains
I didn’t think I’d wipe so much up
with my housecoat
between washings
and when he poos in our pantry
or the time he did it
under the dining room table
at our friends’ housewarming
while we ate
I think how handy diapers are
and that dog poo smells worse
and the part of me that would wonder
when I let go
is already too far away
to hear.