Afternoon at the Lake

The lapping water is so calm,

The August air a soothing balm,

Your hand in mine so strong and warm,

Our heartbeats slow, a rhythmic psalm.

The children’s laughter will perform

A splashing background; as they swarm

Along the beach, the parents look,

The sand tattooed cuneiform.

Next to the beach, a little brook

With dock and boats, with sails that shook

Bob here and there, kayak, canoe

All types, out in the lake, you look-

The birds are here, great songs ensue

From overhead; below a crew

Of ducks paddle along their way,

And think duck thoughts.  Ducks think?  Who knew!

Oh, this is the lake, and here I’ll stay

If only for a short time today.

And dream lake dreams, and make a wish:

To live next to a lake, someday.

8/29/20

Video taken by author at Mendota County Park