"Sucking Down the Grid" by Jennifer Van Buren Neighborhood sucks down the grid for twisted Santa and inflatable Pooh. Wire frame reindeer dip and turn to the rhythm of the blinking hazards of double park lights while newborn plastic Jesus sits up in his nest. Son of God wants a blanket, and the spotlight glare gives no peace. Upstairs bedroom backlit with electric icicles that flicker, twitch and reflect off high step boots that press into mattress, open and arched. Dark vinyl frames your face as you untie my velvet bow again and again. Head turns slow, nose digs in like a hungry lioness sinking into the flesh of an antelope, paw on belly with a sleepy peaceful kneading. About the Author: Jennifer lives in Texas hill country with her husband and two sons. She is editor of the web-based journal, Mannequin Envy and more of her work can be found at mannequinenvy.wordpress.com. Email: jkvanburen@gmail.com