Black Swamp Summer

Summertime starts with the June snow

falling from the cottonwoods.

It tumbles through the streets

that bustle with bikes, laughter, and music.

All eyes to the skies.

Ruckus and gusty storms leave us

huddled in the basement.

They pass quickly. Carry on.

We tirelessly relish every fleeting moment of warmth.

The creeping scent of juicy burgers on the neighbor's grill

lure us in.

Pair it up with crunchy sweet corn and hot sauce.

Stay out late to savor each last kiss

of sweet sunlight-

or at least until you've surrendered to the mosquitos'

relentless song of hunger.

This short season comes to a close

with the blaring calls of the cicadas

reminding us to hunker down for the cold ahead

and eagerly await summer's return.