We used to get our groceries delivered 
but now slots are sold out for weeks
and only 1/2 of what we order is in stock

So Virginia, 16, goes shopping
at the family-owned grocer on Wisconsin
But she’ll only take one tiny black tote
to carry the fruit, butter, and yogurt
(anything larger would be embarrassing)

With no school, plays, Starbucks dates, or babysitting jobs
I’m grateful for the half-full truck
and the small tote
Now she has a reason
to walk in the sun and the rain 
over the wind-flown flowers