The kitchen witch concentrates
as she lights her candle with a matchstick
in a bowl sits lavender, sage, myrrh
she sprinkles her work table with a handful of turmeric
as she closes her eyes, amethyst close to her heart
she mutters her prayers
and sends her wishes

The kitchen witch whips up dishes with gusto;
of roast and rosemary, thyme, apple rinds, honeyed blessings, deep sea salt
a spell for safety, protection, and love;
her children’s pockets are stuffed
with thick bundles of dried carnations and palo santo
tied tightly together
in a neat little bow