Joy

first snow

hot black coffee
splashes on the linoleum floor.
we're all in a rush.

hats, gloves, and boots.
the swish of bundled bodies
shoving their way out the door.

the first snow blankets the ground.
enough to build forts
and soak through my shoes.

you pull up
in the smell of exhaust and cigarettes.
and cold air.

you're smiling
as you trudge up the sidewalk.
i'm hoping you're smiling at me.

and then the snow starts flying.
laughter echos in the stillness.
everyone is a kid today.