Ode to Empty Nest

I used to dream of empty nest and what that life would be

Feet propped up, a blanket, bassets surrounding me.

Not a worry, not a care, a spotless home to show

A carefree time to do nothing, or just pick up and go!

Cookies in the cookie jar for grandkids when they're here

Home cooked dinner on the table for me and my dear.

A good night's sleep was on the list of things for me to do

No kids out late, no listening, no worries 'bout curfew.  

Part of the vision I had right, feet propped up 'cuz I'm beat

But our bassets steal the blankets and leave me with cold feet. 

Worries there are plenty, and a spotless home it's not

The only place I seem to go is to my docs (a lot).

Thank heaven for frozen cookies and store-bought dough to buy

Home-made dinner on the table? Try a frozen pot pie. 

A good night's sleep?  Forget it.  Mother Nature can be cruel.

She has me up at 1 a.m. some nights and that's not cool.

This empty nest  has not turned out just as I thought it would

This midlife stuff is crazy and I don't mean crazy good.

So I've set my sights on a new phase - retirement - THAT's for me!

Now ....if I can just make it until I'm 63.  :)