Warmth

Legs stretched on a lounge chair
Book in hand
The lap of pool water

Two friends arrive
We’re celebrating a birthday at the spa
Lemonade cocktails and soothing rays of California sunshine

Later, under a blanket on a soft table,
Steam massaging the skin of my face, so gentle
Hands melting into a wax treatment

Dinner brings champagne bubbles
Sushi and braised ribs
Under the bed covers, I sleep

Wake to a happy Sunday
Say hello to the university, a place I adore, where I write
Write and write and write – then walk the mountain – and write some more