Sunlight pierces through the oak tree branch into my sunglass covered eyes. The leaves dance about, their shadows breaking up the beams. I pull my cap back down over my eyes.

The mating song of the blue herons clack from a nearby islet in the lake. Clickity-Clickity-Clak-Awk-Awk, repeating over and over again. A pair of cardinals sing out and call to each other.

A gentle breeze crosses the lake, gently swaying my hammock, lulling me back to sleep. I drift off to dream of beaches and mountains and distant travels.

Visions of wonderful adventures fill my dreams. Each journey unique and awe-inspiring, filled with good memories. A brief vision of a handsome face flashes before me, smiling my way.

Then the skies turn dark in my dream. I am rocking back and forth viciously. I hold on for dear life. I feel wetness on my face and skin. I hear my voice tell me to wake up and follow my heart.

Finally, my eyes open and I look up. Rain begins to pour from the sky. I jump out of the hammock and run for cover. Soaked through, I find shelter until the storm passes.

The rose unfolds and reveals

Its velvety red petals, deep and dark.

A gentle drop of dew clings to the bloom

Reflecting the moon from above.

A sweet fragrance wafts through the air.

Tis but a single rose, but so much more.

A sweet gesture, pure and with love.

I still wonder who left it for me.

I hope you find

The girl who wanted to hike the Appalachian Trail

And the woman who is finally taking steps to get there one day.

The girl who fell in love with the Rockies,

And still longs to be there by your side.

The girl who believes in unconditional love,

But never wants to break another’s heart.

The girl who giggles at silliness and the woman who admires honesty.

The girl longing for adventures and the woman who wants to share them with you.

The girl with fire in her heart and tenderness in her touch.

The woman who tries to find calmness in this crazy world.

The girl who still can crack a dirty joke or two.

The woman who turns you on with just her words and a smile.

The girl that challenges you to your very core, and the woman who smooths the road before you.

The girl who wants to listen to your heart, and the woman who wants to hold your hand to the very end.

I hope you find me.

My eyes open slowly, fighting the new day.

I stumble from my slumber, struggling with my shirt and jogging pants.

I finally make it to the door, greeted by a cold rush of wind.

I must push onward. That goal is waiting at the end….and what a goal it is.

Days like today will be worth the push, I tell myself.

I see my breath in the crisp morning air.

Left foot, right foot, left foot.

Don’t give up.