Askew

   There's a chair out of place at the table in the kitchen.

    A flaw hardly noticed if it wasn't looked for;

   For the counters are clean, the sink empty and shining,

With a fresh towel draped, waiting on the next chore.

 The dark wood of the cabinets could seem oppressing,

   Instead contrast nicely with the white tiled floor

  Hung in the window, a large crystal sparkles,

That creates little rainbows that I do so adore.

   A candle's fragrant aroma mingles just slightly

 With the essences of spices used at dinner before.

     My children's achievements, hung proudly with magnets,

 Are prominently displayed on the refrigerator door.

  I've arranged on the table, a vase of cut flowers,

To add nature's cheeriness to the kitchen's decor.

   My whimsical teapot is ready and waiting,

     Thoughtfully prepared for the next visitor.

 But I wonder if you, if you came, would you see?

See what it is that I just can't ignore---

  There's a chair out of place at the table in the kitchen,

     Where ______ doesn't come to sit anymore.