I remember the smell of beer
going down the back steps
The keg under the dartboard
the men in long sleeves
Being carried by my grandfather
and each uncle one by one
Old Spice and English Lavender
as hugs and kisses were exchanged
The garage door open to the back yard
where music was playing
The bride throwing her bouquet
girls screaming with glee
I was six years old when they married
Eisenhower’s picture in the hall
The smell of the fresh cut grass
and cigarette smoke mixing freely outside
It was the best of all possible times
God and country held us tight
The best of all possible times
—as hope and laughter filled the air

(Family Wedding: June, 1954)