The Year of the Kermit

Last year, the name Kermit wouldn't have meant much to me. But in the past several months two very distinct Kermits have entered my life in a big way. First, perhaps the most famous Kermit -- Mr. The Frog -- was re-introduced to me from the newest installment of The Muppets. Oh how I enjoy the wholesome humor and entertainment that is Jim Hensen.

Second, and less wholesome but equally joy-enhancing is Kermit Ruffins. This Kermit was featured in David Simon's "Treme" -- a fabulous TV show that brings post-Katrina New Orleans to the rest of the world in a very real way. Every character in the show is compelling and for those who loved Simon's "The Wire" -- a few favorite actors return for this show. Getting back to Kermit Ruffins, one of the greatest features of "Treme" is the real New Orleans musicians that enrich each episode -- from Kermit to Trombone Shorty to Dr. John and more. After getting hooked on the show, a trip to the library left me with a stock of albums featuring Kermit. So so lovable. Although I'm too broke this year, next year: JAZZFEST in New Orleans.

Both Kermits demonstrate hope, humor, gratitude and good old-fashioned fun.

For my favorite ladies

My best friend is getting married this year! A romantic poem is in order (overdue, in fact). This is a poem that I discovered in compiling a poetry collection as a Christmas gift for my mom, and it reminded me instantly of growing older with my two best lady friends.

Here

by Grace Paley

Here I am in the garden laughing

an old woman with heavy breasts

and a nicely mapped face

how did this happen

well that’s who I wanted to be

at last    a woman

in the old style   sitting

stout thighs apart under

a big skirt   grandchildren sliding

on   off my lap   a pleasant

summer perspiration

that’s my old man across the yard

he’s talking to the meter reader

he’s telling him the world’s sad story

how electricity is oil or uranium

and so forth   I tell my grandson

run over to your grandpa   ask him

to sit beside me for a minute   I

am suddenly exhausted by my desire

to kiss his sweet explaining lips