Green fronds
brush
against bare skin
as we pass
on a climb
ever higher
and breathe in
deep
of air fragrant
with the spice
of cedar
blended
with the musk
of dark earth
and tang of fern fronds
Paint my skin
the skin I’m in
paint it with
sweet promise
and blooming flush
of bright blush
an echo after
the rough scrap
of whiskers
and graze
of calloused touch
with your kisses
and your claim
Quiet moments
lazy and warm
comfort complete
in the act
of soft touches
and the low rumble
of your voice
teasing at my ear
with sweet words
as light kisses join
thrumming chuckles
and the rise and fall
of each breath
just beneath
my sprawl
Quarters
coins
and shiny things
paperclips
and shoelaces
fallen leaves
and plastic bits
parking lots
are treasure troves
where trash collects
discarded
along with
well loved
lost puppies
Heat breaks
and clouds roll in
with drizzles
of rain
that kiss the skin
a world
washed clean
by showers
from above
and once more
the air smells crisp
with moisture
and the scents
that I love
Brash colors
dance
in raucous celebration
filling the senses
with too much
at once
as they bid goodbye
to the bees and bugs
and welcome
autumn
with open arms
and spread petals