Let the aches and pains
remind me of the contentment
I experience when
working with my hands.
Gentle wind in my face,
sun caressing my back,
sweat stinging my eyes
as I work upon the land.
The smell of exposed soil,
memories of spring plantings,
struggling to curb my excitement
in anticipating of plants to grow.
Whether orchard or garden,
I reflect upon Nature’s wonder.
Smiling at sacred mystery,
when seedlings push-up from below.
Reflecting on loving advice,
when using tools of my forefathers,
what some would call toil
has evolved into poetry.
As I labor in quiet enjoyment,
witnessed by cottontails,
blue jays and squirrels,
I hum a thankful melody.
Living on 30 acres F. C. Appelhanz is often given the amazing opportunity of witnessing Nature’s wonder.