At first an uncertain look and then a broad
Smile: the syntax of memory and recognition.

Reaching out, with a firm shake and twin kisses,
To traverse the lapse of time with gratitude.

The words, mostly a blur, except for arrivare:
The only one that springs to mind ahead of Reb.

Her turn of phrase delights me most, however:
Dov’è primavera? she jokes about the weather.

When it comes time to order, the tables are turned:
We do it the familial way, apparently, without menus.

An easy test for Rebecca who just loves the ravioli
And who knows the proper order of the salad course.

But talk about unsure looks through a memory blank:
My mixed grill of meats simply would not translate.

Each weekend we return, as we do every year,
This picture will be worth a thousand words.