Family

Fauntleroy Cove - October 9, 2005

Ami and I saunter beach


through driftwood bones 
of fir, cedar and pine.


She border collies her way

through
 Scotch Broom and grassy swale.


Clever gulls drop clams on rocks


then struggle over carcasses.


Shell shards remain.


Few fishermen patiently cast the shore.


Ami has grown older. 
White hairs define her face


and the walk has become 
more tiring.

Fireweed Season, WestCrest

Fireweed now rusted,


We ramble past the colored foliage.


Ami and Pepper rush ahead


kicking dust, sniffing all.


On top branch Sumac,


a solitary Ana stands guard.


No sense of passing season.


Others have fled
 for light, warmth

and greater forage.


My dogs and I 
remain.