HARD TO KEEP UP WITH

They are so frighteningly bright,

These cousins, gathered for a night

Of school vacation at the house in Maine

Around a Mexican Train dominos game

To which they have been briefly introduced

And all its rules have instantly deduced.

Their ages range from eight to early teens.

I, as a grandmother, am not so keen.

They fidget at the time I take for thought,

Remind me of some rule I have forgot.

I must take time to calculate my moves,

I am outrun by their unbridled youth.

(February, 2014)