they still live
beneath the step
and as I venture out
for my midnight watch
they remember me
and come out of hiding
grandaddies
princes
old mamas
tonight one so little it could have hidden
away with ten others
on my smallest nail
the rain so fresh and light
it tagged along
to hear the retelling
of tales of old
of little girls and boys
and wagon rides
and always the tucking away after
where they all belonged
beneath the step
Sam and Blue
joined the parade
the two deer stay hidden beneath the poplars
knowing I saw them too
their hearts were in
they had already paraded by us for a week now
unafraid
satisfied with the peace
and rest this land
affords to
all who come
to play
in the
midnight hour
rain drizzling fresh
on the planted garden
new life breaking forth from little dead seeds
awakening
a mystery unveiled
with patient waiting
thoughts of African loves
building all the memories they can
while dreaming and hoping
with the coming future
a little family over the mountains
discovering puddles
and spring blossoms
a little black and white cat
and Spring birds
a dog's friendship
and new birthings of beauty
of life all around
gardens planted with good seed
a happy waiting
for the harvest
a son building
like a carpenter's Son
from many years ago
hearts all content
learning of a certain goodness
that always floods the earth
no matter what sits before
the goodness
covers still
the midnight hour
is the game we play
of remembering
and thanking
a little dance with the frogs
a few dog hugs and scratches
a few who who's
with the night birds
a smile lifted
to my God
a deep breath
one with His
a sigh
satisfied
and
so free
to be
me
they come from beneath the step
for this game we play
my favourite things
