"A word is dead when it is said, some say. I say it just begins to live that day."

– Emily Dickinson

For my best friend, and writing partner, on her birthday…

May you always have Spring Awakening and enormous headphones.

An answering machine that is always full, and an ice maker that never works.

Marzipan and Orea milkshakes, Diet Coke and Scotchmallows.

Boots that make me look even shorter, and a slouch that makes me a little taller.

A wall around your house with a crack I can slip through.

A club under the stairs, full of Outcasters like us,

And words that live.