The heat of the cocoa pecks my lips,
Melts my worries, consumes me.
Savoring the sweetness,
I close my eyes.

I am back in the serene woods,
Standing on the root of the tree
Grasping at the earth.

I hold on to the bright rays
Radiating off the scintillating snow that covers
The ground below, the chirping that pierces
Through the frigid air, my laughter that lives
Between the fallen leaves.

I open my eyes,
Cup empty, stomach full,

The fierce growling of the gust of wind
Floods my ears,
As the sunlight reaches down
And covers me in warmth

I sink back into the sand
Waves crashing into and scraping my bare legs.
Out of the corner of my eye
I see an eagle flying away, the waves retreating
Across the ocean in front of me.

Glancing down at my bare feet
I see the grains and shells give way
Under my toes,
Making me feel
Like I’m receding into the background,
Like I’m being pulled back to the kitchen,
Where lingers the welcoming aroma of savory chicken,
Baked potatoes, and homemade cherry pie.

I am once again
Staring intently and eagerly
Out of my frosted window
At lights blinking red, green,
White and blue.

The doorbell rings and my feet move
Against the cold, wooden floors
And I am greeted by familiar smiles
And gentle arms embracing me.

In an hour’s time
I am seated at a table
With chairs crowded with friendly people,
Mouths filled with delectable treats,
Ears consumed with carefree laughter,
And hearts endowed with undeniable love,

Which remains everything,
A memory