A cluster of dark trees
blurring into a green knoll,
emerald sheen on velveteen moss,
sprays of daisies across the grass
bees greedily drinking from succulent centers,
quick-stepping deer flitting by,
fallen feathers of magpies.
Naked feet dangle in a silvery brook
that licks our soles with its babbling tongue,
and we children lapse into repose.

Spider-leafed shadows
of late afternoon
as light drains from the sky
inhabit me.
Lush blueberries brim
over the rims of my basket.
Our laughter leaves me breathless,
I close my eyes.
My life is strongly scented
with the happiness of childhood.