A schmear of sun
dazzles from behind
the neighbor’s maple
and softens the gnarled branches.
As I whisk
the fine verdant granules
whirl and blend
into the steaming water
and a confluence of tiny bubbles
erupt onto the surface
releasing a piquant scent
and a host of mornings past.
Returning from their walk
to the muddied lake
a three-legged dog
cantered through the snow banks
by the side
of his smiling owner.