growing up

i was ankle-deep in lead-based paint

 there were sparking wall outlets piled up to my knees

  knives neatly covered my thighs

   my belly and back were caked in cleaners and cosmetics

    two hot burners covered my chest, making me look like madonna

     chinese toys were piled high in my arms

      my hands held bottles of prescription drugs

       a telephone cord was wrapped around my neck

        my mouth was full of mercury fillings

         there was bug spray in my nose

          the internet in my eyes

           and black widow spiders were nesting in my hair

until i met you