Tripped

The dog looks like
it may be asleep
on top of the luggage
in the back of the car.
A furry bundle
more prized than all the
suitcases and clothes
it has made into a bed.

step

The kids in the backseat
have little screens perched
on headrests
a few feet from their faces
ears covered by big headphones
mesmerized, entranced
bright colors
draw them into a world
an oblivious existence
but a quiet one

step

A weary mother
facing away
eyes hidden behind
oversized sunglasses
black
with fake turquoise perched
on temples
a little blue travel pillow
smashed over the lock on the door
her head smashed into
the little pillow
an awkward pose
she seems to have slipped into
her clothes are wrinkled
travel-worn
and her mouth opens a bit
maybe in a quiet snore.

step

Across the armrest
a grown man squints
at the road ahead
the sun is bright
but no sunglasses adorn
his face
he slaps down the visor
shoves it from side to side
a quick glance to his left
a quick consideration
he ponders stealing her sunglasses
but would rather squint
than awaken the beast on the
blue pillow.
He leaves the visor to the side
and pushed on the cruise control
brings the speed up a bit
then settles into the seat again.

Trips are fun for everyone.