From the Balcony

The dignified stride of a woman with some-
where to be, people to meet. Early morning in
Warsaw. Eggs, cheese, tomato, and a glass of
fresh-squeezed orange juice. Trying to find
the iron, wet towels once again drying on the
balcony in the back. Iced coffee from an ice
cream shop. Riding an electric scooter up and
down one of the main streets while she has
photos taken for her Polish passport. Remember-
ing the hedgehog from last night. "This is
the happiest day of my life." Casual and non-
chalant. Meat pierogi fried up for lunch. Walk-
ing through rooftop gardens by the university.
Tour boats on the river, spectacular views all
around. Prosciutto and mushroom pizza with a
citrusy salad, two cocktails apiece making us
sleepy. Almost dozing off on the Metro. Staying
up late to pack for the train ride tomorrow,
a midnight snack before bedtime.