In dreams
I wander through lush fields of lupines and poppies, their purple and orange blooms sway gently as swallowtails and monarchs flit among them.
A low hum of insects, chirp of a cricket, and mourning dove song fill the air.
Over the crest of a hill, a pond surrounded by wildflowers and tall grasses shimmers in the sunlight. Emerald dragonflies hover in the cattails at its edge.

In dreams
I walk through an endless apricot orchard. Heavy with fruit, tree branches arch towards the earth. The scent of ripe apricots surrounds me.
Cradled in the arms of a pear tree, I relish the crisp crunch and the tart-sweet taste of green pears as I watch the world go by.

In dreams
I feel the warmth of the sun on my face as I play. The rolling hills around me are golden in the height of summer. Clear blue skies meet the hills at the horizon.
A stray breeze rustles the cornstalks. Lizards slither and dart through the rock garden.

In dreams
I watch the fog curling around ancient oak trees. Stillness settles on the fields, broken only by cattle moving about.
The world lies quiet, waiting for the sun to break the haze.

In dreams
I hear the chich-chich-chich of sprinklers working in the green fields of alfalfa. Water dripping down the plants creates muddy rivulets between the rows.
Shadows of a well-used hat, strong arms, and scuffed work boots move at the edge of my awareness.

In dreams
I remember a childhood lost too soon.

September 22, 2020