When I was young and boyish brave,
a pretty day led me astray.
I didn’t try to catch the bus
as it sped by that day in May.

.I grinned and watched it disappear,
though knowing Pa would tan my butt
once he’d been told just what I’d done.
“Fourth time this Spring your son has cut.”

I turned to see a girl my age
come running swiftly down the block.
“Is that the bus to Middle School?”
She stared at it, at me in shock.

My heart kick-started in my chest
as she was something, really CUTE.
Red pony-tail and freckled nose.
I couldn’t answer, stood there mute.

“I-I’m new in town.  We just moved in.”
She pointed to a ranch-style house.
“I am Norene.”  Her finger touched
the name embroidered on her blouse.

I finally spoke and grinned at her.
“‘Round here I’m known as PBJ.
In school I’m Pete, at home ‘Hey, you.”
Her laugh began our holiday.

We never tried to get to school, 
but walked and talked as young teens do.
Though years have passed, I won’t forget
that day together, just we two.