They knew.
They always know...
when you're exhausted
...mentally
 ...physically
...emotionally.

This year they caught me wallowing in
...what used to be
...what I rather see
...what wasn't.

Then you catch them peeking
into your darkest corners of
...grief
...regret
...sadness
...loneliness
...and doubt.

That's when they attack
...when you're down
...when you're weakened
when you have resigned.

That's when the local viruses
and bacteria get you,
Invade your vulnerable body...
and your down for the count.

I guess this is the only way I would have stopped
and slowed down
and taken care of myself...
I was forced to.

Pots of tea
and cough meds
Pain relievers
and buttered saltines
...like my Grandma used to make me.
A warm blanket on a comfy couch
...and last night
Project runway all stars

....and sleep came
and it was good