He is 2 years old

& wants to make you laugh,

it is clear

that is his favorite pass time.

He lifts the little plastic tub

holding the crayons 

& dumps the crayons 

willy-nilly on the table

& puts the little tub on his head

& walks around smiling & laughing & looking at all the giants (grown-ups)

as if to say--

why are you talking so much,

let's laugh & laugh,

isn't that conversation enough?

I smile at his joyous clownish fun

& give thanks for this little bubble of two-years life.

When I take my leave out the front door,

he climbs up on the back of the couch (no fear of falling!),

& gazes his quiet goodbye 

out the window as I descend the steps.

Almost time to sleep,

little one,

I carry your smile & laughter

deep in my heart.