a farmhouse delicately stands
in the center of town with no picket fences
so sheep can roam
and cows remain home
endless pasture- their own
as the herd dog commences
and the barn cat can relish its senses.

a post office next to the schoolhouse
where children play and tumble
around crisp autumn leaves
leaving all aside
except for the
apple in their hands.

in their absence i walk to you
weekly loaf in basket
to share and bear my heart:
your wisdom the balm
and your presence the calm
mending it back whole.

my cup you fill
from a *** of hot coffee
brewed as i arrived.
with you around
surely i can thrive
in the animal house that stands
in the center of town with no picket fences.