Away from Home

I think of you, my dear, sweet girl
As I gaze across the vast beige earth,
Interspersed with slashes of stark gray,
The winter branches of young trees.

Hidden still is the swelling of green buds,
Except for here and there, the willows push forth
Their soft gray tufts as if to say, winking,
“See the surprise that lies in store.”
I thought of you in winter’s crispness, crackling flames
And pictured you across from me with laughter shared.

Now, as the buds break forth, I’ll really see
Your bright face, surprise of spring for me.