At 6 a.m. it’s 33 degrees
outside, and clear as polished leaded glass.
We’re tempered by the bay – we seldom freeze –
but still I’m glad to goose the natural gas
to toast ceramic logs to radiate
to warm my room while flames delight my eyes.
Today’s a little respite in the spate
of family demands and client cries.

And rain or shine I’d take it for my own –
this crystal clarity is added good.
Intending to enjoy myself alone,
today I’m planted in this neighborhood
as if I were the central root. I tuck
my feet beneath my seat and thank my luck.