associated in random thought

perfect.

sufjan's michigan sleepily spins on the record player. incense from dear chris burns on the mantle. helen sits cozy in the corner, finishing homework for class tomorrow. i sit across the room with a book, feet curled underneath me. dogs and cats lay together sound asleep, and over the drone of air conditioning, crickets sing outside on a balmy july evening.

"i love our family," helen says dreamily. and i smile.