The world of a nine-year-old

simplified to twin truths —

dogs and dolls.

All canines count

but “Chico” comes first

not surprisingly —

warming black nose

pleading brown eyes

wagging tanny tail

huggable and squeezable

lovable,

as are pretty dolls

rimming her pink room

patiently waiting

for their bouncy mistress

coming home from school

to talk to and cuddle

play with and snuggle

a soothing ritual.

Dogs and dolls

passions of a young girl

a grandaughters’ loves.

— Lee Carlson lives in Lawrence.