cold morning air

from the valley below rise

little clouds of steam

dogs making play-bows

in the light of a street lamp

their men stop to talk

gentle rain, grey skies

a cat cleans the night’s remains

from extended claws

a new bird calling

warbling tones bring high notes to

today’s symphony

our neighbour’s garden

little pond of gleaming carp

our golden-nosed cat

cutting my own hair

imperfection pleases me

this unbalanced world

this morning’s cool breath

sleep-warm legs stretching downwards

tiptoes test cold tiles

dancing in the air

snowflakes and white spring blossoms

the north wind laughing

happy dog barking

hidden by a dry stone dyke

a boy throws a ball

one single word shook

me from my dreams, just one word,

one disturbing thought