The Perfect Pajamas

Kate Dobrovolny

are too big
loose at the waist
wide at the ankles
no buttons or trim
pressing the skin
no rough edges
but not too slippery
no satin or silk
plain cotton that
breathes and hugs
gets soft then softer
helps slow the
racing brain
absorb the sting of
disturbing dreams

come sunrise, the
perfect pajamas
offer to stay on
through coffee and
crossword puzzles
for as long as
you need them

---

Kate Dobrovolny
Kate Dobrovolny retired from a career in public media in Champaign, IL. She studies ikebana flower arranging, tai chi, and poetry.