Betty and Shirley of the dimply smiles
pink anklets and blonde ringlets
chosen to choose.

I'll take Thelma; I'll take Chloe
Then Faye and Eula Mae, I'll take Veda and Claudine
Now Naomi and Molly Sue, then Beth and Ruthie, too
Lucille looks on
And waits and waits and waits
Hope sinking lower into wrinkled-down long stockings
And battered brown brogans
Unchosen
Invisible.

While I slept fog sneaked into my valley
Pushing its misty white through dark hollows
Hiding the tiny green leaves of springtime
And closing the view of budding violets
I watch as the rising sun touches the ridges
And blesses the tips of the tallest trees
Then warming rays squeeze the mist dry
And ever so gently open the purple petals
I see the sunlight on your face
I feel your hand caress my cheek
And happiness tickles my toes!