Last Hike of Summer

Last hike of summer,
fifteen miles to mirror lake.
Knees older, same heart.

Azure mountain moth,
disguised among blue asters,
unmasked by a breeze.

Lupine fade and hum;
in the last alpine flowers,
honey bees feasting.

Evening nurse log,
lullaby of newborn firs,
deepening silence.

Painting by Christine Ghattas