laughter here, and joy
prospecting for a new home
away from this haven on the hill
with its view for seventy miles
to the snow-capped Cascades
this gift my husband gave
in love and joined me in fulfillment
in joy when hosting the family
in contentment watching birds
squat and squawk at the feeder
California quail dust bathing
with one too many to fit in the bowl
deer peering into our windows
fawns learn young to jump fences
elk herds mow down the wire fences
an ancient cow elk guarding
the calves frolicking in our lower field
there has been laughter here
and joy