The Red Trimmed Shoe

And Then There Was One

by Joanne Faries

I hate being precious

stuck in a stroller

preppie outfit complete with hat

matching striped socks, and new red trimmed shoes

I hate shoes, but they are a challenge

must begin my campaign with a winner

new parents, rookie mistakes. I have lung power advantage

wail and head shake. Arm flaps

hand slaps hat askew

red faced I sniffle

Mom straightens hat, but I renew effort

another arm wave whoosh, unencumbered head

Dad surrenders, picks up hat, stuffs it in bag

I giggle, gurgle, drool so Mom bends down to wipe

my mouth and kiss my forehead. She smiles

oh this is too easy

we roll along a path in fits and bursts. Camera shots

parents babble, distracted by sights

I wriggle my toes scrunched in these shoes

concentrate on right one

rub against foot rest, it loosens

I jabber, bounce in my seat with glee

kick and catch an edge

right shoe sails on to sidewalk close to grass

stroller rolls onward, oblivious parents discuss lunch

one happy foot

jailbreak joy

Marval Movie