In autumn when leaves blanket my yard I hope unlike most others for rain before I rake The added mess of raking wet leaves is much preferred for it hastens their decay and olfactory air Intoxicating I inhale my youth forest floor of Hanson’s woods…

I remember searingly when I need to and when I don’t days of youthful summers grandparent’s lake home woodlands of northern Minnesota Only child only grandchild given free rein to roam explore discover understand all on my own terms I remember searingly when I need…